In Episode 16, host Kallie and the crew get candid about failing forward—what it means, why it matters, and how to reframe our relationship with failure. From viral underwear ads and the Dunning-Kruger effect to forgotten lip stains and botched job interviews, this conversation explores how we stumble, what we learn, and how to model resilience for our kids.

We dive into the gender gap in confidence, especially in how women approach risk, perfectionism, and the fear of public failure. Charlotte unpacks how burnout and rejection redirected her to a life she loves, while Kallie shares how a "dream house fail" ended up being a blessing in disguise. Caitlin reminds us that sometimes the only way forward is to be willing to "suck" at something until you get better.

Plus, a special chat with Erica Ligenza of Coming Up Roses and the THRIVE Podcast, where she opens up about her own recipe mishaps, personal growth, and her favorite mantra: “We can do hard things.”

We close out the show with our signature Pits and Peaks segment—because even in a week full of messes, there’s always something to celebrate.

Failing Forward – Why Failure Might Be Your Greatest Asset

Motherhood isn't just one job—it's dozens, and on Episode 15 of the podcast, host Megan and the mom squad are talking all about it! From laugh-out-loud mom fails (like choking on sprouts and hiding snacks from kids) to heartfelt conversations about juggling career goals, family life, and self-care, this episode is a relatable look at the "many hats" moms wear daily.

You'll hear stories about handling the mental load, dealing with guilt, and the invisible labor of motherhood—and you'll leave with real strategies for setting boundaries and finding joy amidst the chaos. Plus, special guest Samantha Yanks, cofounder of The Connecticut Edit, shares how she balances her many roles with grace and purpose.

Pits and Peaks wrap up the show with everything from tech hacks to Broadway adventures.

Whether you're a new mom, a seasoned pro, or just need to know you’re not alone—this episode is for you.

🎧 Tune in now for laughs, real talk, and a reminder that every mom deserves her crown.

The Many Hats of Motherhood: Balancing Family, Career, and Self

In this heartfelt and hilariously honest episode, Caitlin and the crew (Megan, Kallie, and Charlotte) dive deep into the complexities of body image after having kids. From the emotional rollercoaster of feeling like a stranger in your own skin to learning how to appreciate your body for the miracles it’s performed, the moms share raw personal stories, honest reflections, and the real struggles of postpartum self-acceptance.

We’re also joined by special guest Katy Fassett, a stay-at-home mom and motherhood advocate, who brings insight into finding beauty in the “after” and embracing the now.

But first—what’s with all the wildly inappropriate lyrics in our favorite songs? From Taylor Swift to Lady Gaga’s “disco stick,” the moms break down the music their toddlers are (accidentally) singing. Plus: a round of Mom Fails, some surprising postpartum stats, and a candid conversation about wrinkles, wardrobes, and the pressure to “bounce back.”

This episode is a reminder that two truths can coexist: you can be proud of what your body has done and still struggle with how it looks. Let’s talk about it.

Accepting Your Body Post Kids

In this funny and thoughtful episode of Just 4 Moms, Charlotte and the crew explore how to talk with kids about the many shapes families can take today. From forgetting homework to teaching toddlers catchphrases, the mom fails are real—but so are the heartwarming lessons. Charlotte interviews interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn, who shares his experience raising a daughter with his husband, Hollis. They discuss paperwork hurdles, inclusive language, and why love—not structure—defines a family. The moms reflect on their own approaches to conversations about nontraditional families and the importance of openness, empathy, and representation. Plus, it’s all wrapped up with Peaks and Pits, where sports, trips, and tummy bugs make an appearance!

How to Discuss Modern Families and Differences with Our Kids

In this episode, Kallie and the crew dive into the reality of keeping kids entertained at home—balancing structured activities with the power of free play. They unpack the societal pressures of modern parenting, the importance of boredom in fostering creativity, and the role of parents as guides rather than constant playmates.

Special guest Abby, aka Gal Practical, joins to share her go-to low-prep activities and expert tips as an occupational therapist. From scavenger hunts to dance breaks, from mud pies to stopwatch challenges, this episode is packed with real-life parenting hacks and hilarious moments. Plus, the team wraps up with their "Pits and Peaks" of the week—because, let’s be honest, no parenting week is complete without a few fails and wins!

The Reality of Keeping Kids Entertained at Home: Finding the Balance Between Structured Play and Free Time

Leaving your kids with a babysitter—easy for some, nerve-wracking for others. In episode 11, Megan and the hosts open up about their early anxieties, from over-detailed instructions (yes, even writing out “Shh shh”) to navigating boundaries with in-laws. They discuss how their trust levels changed as their kids got older and even debate whether having a nanny cam is a good idea.

You'll hear some wild babysitting stats, tips for finding the right sitter (CPR certification, anyone?), and the inside scoop on going rates. Plus, Kallie shares her experience with a babysitting service, and Megan interviews two experts from Sitter Connect for professional hiring advice.

The episode kicks off with a fun chat about the overuse of “LOL,” a round of hilarious “Mom Fails” (moldy washing machines and lost chocolates, anyone?), and wraps up with “Pits and Peaks” from the week.

Stay tuned till the end to hear more about Sitter Connect and how they can help you find a sitter you trust!

🎧 Listen now!

Tips for Hiring a Babysitter

EPISODE 10 is here!

Spring is in the air… or at least the stink bugs are. Caitlin, Charlotte, Kallie, and Megan kick things off with springtime woes (do stink bugs even stink?!) and April Fools' Day hot takes. Then, we dive into a listener-submitted question: How much do families actually spend on childcare? We break down the real costs, the tough decisions parents make, and why this topic feels so taboo. Plus, we share our latest Mom Fails (laundry struggles, work/life balance), Peaks & Pits (new shows, outdoor adventures, baby alligators?!), and plenty of laughs along the way.

🎧 Tune in now! #ParentingPodcast #ChildcareCosts #MomLife

The Financial Costs of Raising a Child

In this episode, the hosts reunite after a long winter break, swapping stories about vacations and raccoon encounters. The conversation takes a fun detour into awards season, with Caitlin sharing favorite nominated films while Kallie remains hilariously out of the loop—even missing the latest Timothée Chalamet dating news.

Next, the ever-relatable Mom Fails segment returns, featuring forgotten sheets, travel mishaps, and Christmas decorations that just won’t come down.

The main discussion dives into technology and screen time for kids. Charlotte shares her strategy for introducing phones at 13, using BARK parental controls to set boundaries. Megan talks about managing devices in her household, where her daughters have phones but her son sticks to an iPad. Caitlin keeps a tight rein on her daughters' smartwatches and iPads, enforcing strict internet and messaging rules. Meanwhile, Kallie embraces a tech-minimal lifestyle, with no screens on school days and an intentional approach to phone use in the mornings.

The hosts also reflect on childhood independence, parental control apps, and the importance of screen-free play—contrasting today’s digital habits with their own MapQuest-and-atlas upbringings.

Wrapping up with Pits and Peaks, the group shares everything from fireplace stencil disasters to Bingo losses, new family-favorite meals, and an unexpected squirrel visitor.

Join the conversation for laughs, parenting wins (and fails), and practical insights on navigating screen time with kids in a tech-driven world!

Technology, Devices and Screen Time with Kids

In this episode, Kallie and the crew dive into the complex and often hilarious world of sibling rivalry—what it really means, how it manifests in different family dynamics, and the lifelong impact it can have. The conversation kicks off with a chat about bestselling author Rebecca Yarros, who nearly quit writing before finding massive success in fantasy. This leads to a discussion on perseverance, career highs and lows, and the moments that push us forward when we’re ready to give up.

Then, it’s time for Mom Fails, featuring Caitlin’s toddler regressing back to a pacifier, Megan’s overdue library books, and Kallie’s struggle to feign enthusiasm for her son’s endless house drawings.

The main topic—sibling rivalry—unpacks deep-rooted competition for attention, resources, and parental approval. The hosts share personal experiences, from Charlotte feeling the pressure of “scorekeeping” in her childhood to Caitlin’s realization that she wasn’t always the nicest older sister. They explore how parenting styles, gender, and age gaps shape sibling relationships, and how to navigate the inevitable conflicts.

Key Takeaways:
📌 Parental Language Matters – Kids internalize how they’re spoken about, shaping their roles in the family.
📌 Fighting Isn’t Always Rivalry – Siblings arguing is normal, but long-term tension stems from deeper roots.
📌 Coaching is Key – Encouraging kids to support each other, share, and express their feelings fosters healthier sibling bonds.

Charlotte shares a touching analogy about how hurtful words leave lasting marks on the heart, and Kallie reflects on the unique, irreplaceable bond of siblings—“You’re never going to have another one like this in your whole life.”

The episode wraps up with Pits and Peaks, celebrating Megan’s bird-feeding success, Caitlin’s potty-training win, Charlotte’s talented dog, and Kallie reclaiming her home office.

Tune in for laughs, heartfelt moments, and practical tips on managing sibling dynamics! 🎧

Sibling Rivalry and Family Dynamics

In this episode, Megan and the crew dive into the challenges and joys of making friends as an adult. But first, they take a nostalgic trip back to the '90s, reminiscing about the iconic fashion brands of their youth. Next, it's time for Mom Fails, where Megan confesses to leaving her daughters’ clothes in a hotel closet and Charlotte admits to her son's questionable shower habits. Then, the main topic: Adult Friendships. Making friends as an adult is tough—everyone’s busy, tired, and juggling responsibilities. The hosts discuss the challenges of meeting new friends, whether through parenting, work, or community groups. To wrap things up, the hosts share their Pits & Peaks of the week, from garage victories and unexpected travel anxiety to finally getting a quiet morning alone.

Social Tip of the Week: Add one extra sentence about yourself in conversations—it might just spark a new friendship!

🎧 Tune in for laughs, relatable moments, and some solid advice on finding your people in adulthood!

The key topics discussed in Episode 7: Making Friends as an Adult include:

 * Nostalgia & 90s Fashion
 * Mom Fails – Funny parenting mishaps, including forgotten clothes on a trip and kids resisting showers.
 * Challenges of Adult Friendships – How making friends gets harder with age due to time constraints, responsibilities, and social dynamics.
 * Tips for Making New Friends as an Adult

Pits & Peaks – Personal highs and lows of the week, from stressful moments to small victories.

Making Friends as an Adult

This is a podcast about women, friendship, motherhood and more. Join Kallie Branciforte, Caitlin Houston, Megan Schinella and Charlotte Smith as they discuss everything from navigating careers to parenting challenges to the science experiment that is aging as a woman. With humor, honesty and authenticity, Just 4 Moms is the conversation you have with your girlfriends around the kitchen counter.