Kansas City MomCast

Kansas City Mom Collective

Welcome to the Kansas City MomCast — a place to learn, connect, and grow in a relevant and intentional way. Join us as we interview experts in the field and hear from local moms, just like you. This is a podcast FOR Kansas City Moms, BY Kansas City Moms. We know that your time is precious and we’re grateful you’ve chosen to spend some of it with us. Thank you for being a part of the Kansas City Mom Collective community.

  1. 5D AGO

    Loving a Parent Through Dementia with Sonya Jury | Kansas City MomCast Episode 96

    /* custom css - generated by TagDiv Composer */ /* custom css - generated by TagDiv Composer */ .tdi_2, .tdi_2 .tdc-columns{ min-height: 0; }.tdi_2, .tdi_2 .tdc-columns{ display: block; }.tdi_2 .tdc-columns{ width: 100%; }.tdi_2:before, .tdi_2:after{ display: table; } /* custom css - generated by TagDiv Composer */ /* custom css - generated by TagDiv Composer */ .tdi_4{ vertical-align: baseline; }.tdi_4 > .wpb_wrapper, .tdi_4 > .wpb_wrapper > .tdc-elements{ display: block; }.tdi_4 > .wpb_wrapper > .tdc-elements{ width: 100%; }.tdi_4 > .wpb_wrapper > .vc_row_inner{ width: auto; }.tdi_4 > .wpb_wrapper{ width: auto; height: auto; } Sonya’s mother was diagnosed with dementia in May 2012, beginning a five-year journey that would ultimately redefine their relationship. Sonya shares what life looked like before the diagnosis, the early signs that something wasn’t right, and the emotional shift that occurred when she became her mother’s full-time caregiver, stepping into what she describes as "becoming the mother of my mother." In this deeply moving episode, we’re joined by Sonya Jury, a transformational leader, speaker, entrepreneur, and Certified EOS (Entrepreneuer Operating System) Implementer known for her ability to connect the dots and turn complexity into clarity. While Sonya helps organizations bring vision to life professionally, she also brings a powerful and deeply personal perspective shaped by her years as a caregiver for her mother. We talk about Sonya’s book, Mom Forgot My Birthday, written after what she candidly calls "riding the dementia train" with her mom. The title captures the heartbreak, confusion, and reality of Alzheimer’s, and the book itself is structured around the three stages of the disease: early, middle, and late. Sonya reflects on how her relationship with her mother evolved through each stage- from uncertainty and frustration to grief, acceptance, and profound love. Throughout the conversation, Sonya blends her natural leadership lens with deep compassion, offering clarity for listeners who may be worried about their own parents or loved ones. She shares common warning signs of Alzheimer’s, the very first step to take if concerns arise, and what she wishes she had known earlier- lessons she now offers to help others navigate caregiving with more resilience, understanding, and grace. Sonya’s story is honest, tender, and deeply human. This episode offers both practical guidance and emotional reassurance for caregivers, family members, and anyone seeking to better understand dementia and Alzheimer’s — reminding us that even in loss, there can be clarity, connection, and compassion. In this episode, we discuss: Early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia How caregiving reshapes family roles and relationships The emotional realities of each stage of the disease What to do if you’re concerned about a loved one Lessons learned after five years as a caregiver The heart behind Mom Forgot My Birthday Listen now for a powerful conversation about leadership, caregiving, love, and honoring those we care for even as memories fade. What We’re Loving In Kansas City Slime KC  Rainbow Slime Co. at Union Station is an interactive pop-up experience where kids can create and play with different types of slime! Best part? It's not in your house! The cost is $12 per person and they are closed on Mondays. This has been a popular spot so hop online to reserve your time slot here. Birthday Freebies! Who doesn't love a good freebie on her birthday? Whether you’re celebrating for a day, a week, or the entire month, there’s no shortage of birthday freebies waiting to be claimed here in KC. Check out our guide here! Connect with Megan and Sarah We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!

    56 min
  2. JAN 26

    Holding onto Faith in the Hardest Seasons with Jami Nato | Kansas City MomCast Episode 95

    Today’s conversation is about faith, honesty, healing, and what it looks like to rebuild your life and identity after walking through something deeply painful. Our guest is Jami Nato, a popular author, speaker, and entrepreneur (and Kansas City mom!) known for her relatable, humorous, faith-based reflections on family, marriage, and personal growth.  In today’s episode, Jami talks about her family and how she first began sharing her life and perspective publicly, how her faith shifted through the hardest seasons, and what it really looked like to do the hard, personal work of forgiveness. We’ll also talk about her decision to step away from a familiar church environment to find a new way of connecting with God, what she believes faith communities can still offer, and how all of these experiences shape her writing and her book. About Jami Nato: Jami has become a voice of honesty and hope, sharing lessons on forgiveness, purpose, and authenticity through her blog, social media, and her book This Must Be the Place. She lives in the Kansas City area with her husband, and their four kids-often sharing the beautifully “messy” parts of real life with humor and grace. What We’re Loving In Kansas City Time To Sign Up For Summer Camps! Sarah is here with a PSA to all moms that January and February is the time to get your kids signed up for summer camps! She has her eye on Tastebuds cooking camps and Snapology this year but will also be consulting the ever-helpful KCMC Summer Camp Guide you can find here! Snow Day Sledding Snow day season is here! If you are feeling adventurous and wanting to check out a new sledding spot, check out our super helpful guide to all the best places in KC! Your kids will thank you! Connect with Megan and Sarah We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!

    54 min
  3. JAN 12

    You’re Not Alone: Parenting Support With Johnson County Mental Health | Kansas City MomCast Sponsored Episode

    /* custom css - generated by TagDiv Composer */ /* custom css - generated by TagDiv Composer */ .tdi_14, .tdi_14 .tdc-columns{ min-height: 0; }.tdi_14, .tdi_14 .tdc-columns{ display: block; }.tdi_14 .tdc-columns{ width: 100%; }.tdi_14:before, .tdi_14:after{ display: table; } /* custom css - generated by TagDiv Composer */ /* custom css - generated by TagDiv Composer */ .tdi_16{ vertical-align: baseline; }.tdi_16 > .wpb_wrapper, .tdi_16 > .wpb_wrapper > .tdc-elements{ display: block; }.tdi_16 > .wpb_wrapper > .tdc-elements{ width: 100%; }.tdi_16 > .wpb_wrapper > .vc_row_inner{ width: auto; }.tdi_16 > .wpb_wrapper{ width: auto; height: auto; } This episode is sponsored by Johnson County Mental Health. Parents face intense pressure to parent well in today’s society. Whether it’s managing screen time, overcoming generational parenting mistakes, substance abuse or the growing teen mental health crisis, it’s a lot to navigate. The good news is we don’t have to do it alone. Johnson County Mental Health is a valuable community resource for parents and youth. We’re so lucky to speak with Tim Kruse and Sierra Wright, community prevention coordinators, who understand these issues from their work in our community as well as being parents themselves.  They are here to discuss tips for parents and the free resources available to support you on this journey. What You’ll Hear in This Episode In this conversation, we explore: How the way we were parented impacts the way we parent. The variety of resources that we have for parents/caregivers Device safety/awareness and how to navigate that digital world How to navigate situations when a child is in a mental health crisis What parents need to know about substance abuse and suicide How Johnson County Mental Health is here to help both parents and kids Meet Our Guests Tim Kruse is a Community Prevention Coordinator for Johnson County Mental Health. He has been with Johnson County working with children and families for the last 18 years, the last 4.5 of which has been at the mental health center. Tim works to facilitate and educate community members on general mental wellness, suicide and substance use prevention, and device awareness and safety. Sierra Wright, LMSW is the Community Prevention Manager at Johnson County Mental Health Center, where she has worked since 2012. During her tenure, she has served in several roles, including clinician and team leader in Children and Family Services and as a prevention coordinator. Sierra earned both her Bachelor and Master of Social Work degrees from the University of Kansas. Since 2018, she has served on the Kansas Law Enforcement Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Council and currently serves as Vice-Chair. In this role, she collaborates with law enforcement to strengthen responses to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. She is dedicated to equipping officers with the tools and knowledge to support those in crisis and is an advocate for increasing awareness of secondary trauma and expanding supports for law enforcement personnel.   Connect with Megan and Sarah We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!

    48 min
  4. 12/15/2025

    Building a Business That Feels Like Home: The Story of Monstera’s Books | Kansas City MomCast Episode 94

    Today on the show, we’re excited to welcome Katie Wieners, the owner of Monstera’s Books in Downtown Overland Park! Katie lives in Overland Park with her husband, Justin, and their two daughters.  Before opening the bookstore, Katie spent nearly 15 years in software sales, building a successful career that many would consider the “safe path.” But after becoming a mom for the second time, she realized something important: the work that once energized her no longer felt aligned with the life she wanted to build. So she made a bold shift. In March 2024, Katie opened Monstera’s Books, a beautiful blend of books and plants that quickly became a neighborhood favorite. Then in summer of 2025, a fire forced them closed. After extensive rebuilding the store and inventory, they reopened in time for the holidays. We’re talking about what it looks like to pivot careers as a mom, follow a dream that feels a little scary, build something from the ground up, and create a space where other people can feel at home. Katie’s story is such an inspiring reminder that motherhood doesn’t close doors — it can actually open the right ones. Follow Monstera's on Facebook and Instagram. What We’re Loving In Kansas City Santa's Secret Shop at Mama and Me Boutique in Liberty Does your kid have a list of friends, family, and special teachers they’d love to surprise for Christmas? Inside Santa’s Secret Shop, your child can experience independence by shopping with a Helper Elf with affordable gifts priced from $3-$20. Shopping dates include: December 15-19: 2pm-6pm December 20: 11am-4pm December 21: 11am-1pm December 22-23: 11am-5pm December 24: 10am-1pm This fun little pop up is located inside Mama and Me Boutique in Liberty, MO. Ice Skating at Chicken N Pickle Grab your crew and head out for some seasonal fun at the ice skating rink at Chicken N Pickle in Overland Park (also a location in the Northland)! Weather permitting, the rink is open Monday–Friday from 4 p.m. to close and Saturday–Sunday from around 10 AM to close- perfect for afternoon family time or a spontaneous weekend outing. Skate passes are typically $11 with skate rentals around $4 (and kids 3 and under skate free!). There are lots of food options there, as well. Mom tip: don’t forget to sign the waiver before you hit the ice! Connect with Megan and Sarah We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!

    44 min
  5. 12/08/2025

    Life with Twins After NICU Stay | Kansas City MomCast Sponsored Episode

    This episode is sponsored by University Health. Nora and Demetrious were thrilled to learn they were pregnant with twins after receiving IVF treatments. When it came time to choose a hospital for prenatal care and to deliver their babies, they did extensive research. They chose University Health because of the maternal and fetal medicine physicians specializing in high-risk pregnancy and the access to a Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). On February 20, 2025, Nora delivered twin girls at University Health. One daughter was able to go home shortly after birth, while the other stayed in the NICU to receive extra care. She was able to join her sister at home a week later. Today, Nora and Demetrious are busy parents, juggling the hectic and exciting chaos that comes with having twins. We spent time today chatting with Nora about her experience. What You’ll Hear in This Episode In this conversation, we talk about what it’s really like to welcome twins- especially when their journey begins in the NICU. We explore: What it was like finding out they were expecting twin The emotional and practical realities of having babies in the NICU Who and what supported them through that experience The transition home after a NICU stay- both the joy and the overwhelm How they divided responsibilities with two infants The surprises, challenges, and learning curves unique to caring for twins How she found or built a supportive community Her message of encouragement for other moms navigating NICU life or parenting multiples To make an appointment with a University Health Maternal Fetal Medicine Specialist, ask your doctor for a referral or click here for the most advanced expertise and compassionate care during your pregnancy. Connect with Megan and Sarah We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!

    28 min
  6. 12/03/2025

    Our Favorites for the Holidays in Kansas City | Kansas City MomCast Episode 93

    Welcome to our annual holiday in Kansas City episode - our most popular of the year! Whether you’re looking to start a new tradition or add something special to your holiday plans, this episode is packed with ideas from across Kansas City. Let’s dive into the holiday magic! Favorite Places to Get Gifts Experience gifts like mom-and-me pedicures. Local memberships: KidScape, Deanna Rose Children's Farmstead, Union Station, Wonderscope, and The Kansas City Zoo Gift cards to neighborhood spots like Golden Scoop, Panera, or QuikTrip. KC-themed apparel for kids. Travel-related gifts: luggage, Disney gift cards for upcoming trips Tickets to local shows (Coterie, Broadway series) Best Spots for Holiday Lights KCMC Neighborhood Light Guides curated and vetted by KC moms (organized by geographic area). Deanna Rose parking lot lights: wear your PJs! Overland Park Arboretum’s Luminary Walk Winter Magic (Northland drive-thru) Holiday Reflections at Union Station: indoor, interactive, and a new annual favorite. Favorite Ways to Give Back Check out our family friendly volunteer guide. Children’s Mercy Happy Kits that families can assemble. Harvesters offers Family Day volunteer shifts for kids 8 and older. Visiting Santa KCMC's Morning at the North Pole event featuring an awesome Santa, crafts, hot chocolate and more. Junior League’s Santa: booked in 10-minute increments with professional photos and no lines-worth the cost! The Plaza is bringing Santa back this year! Favorite Live Music and Theater Elf, The Musical at the Coterie. Nutcracker at the Kauffman Center Kansas City Symphony’s Christmas Festival Favorite Adult Holiday Activities Tons of pop-up holiday bars, fun but require early reservations. Overland Park Arboretum’s Luminary Walk adults only nights The Hallmark Holiday Experience, check out our guide! Holiday markets are great for girlfriend outings and local gift shopping Best Places to Take Out-of-Town Visitors Holiday Reflections at Union Station. Consider brunch or lunch at Harvey's before hand. When it's too chilly to play outside, find fun ways to keep kids moving indoors. Dance parties, hallway obstacle courses, and living room yoga are great ways to burn energy and to boost moods. Even 15 minutes of movement can make a big difference. Get creative, join in, and show them that staying active can be fun no matter the weather. Children’s Mercy Kansas City is built for kids. That’s why we have been taking care of the kids in the community for more than 125 years. Learn more.  Connect with Megan and Sarah We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!

    23 min
  7. 11/23/2025

    Maximizing College Savings with Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson | Kansas City MomCast Sponsored Episode

    This podcast is sponsored by Learning Quest. As parents, we all want to set our children up for success—but when it comes to planning for their education, the options can feel overwhelming. One powerful tool to consider is a 529 account, which allows you to invest in your child’s future education no matter what path they choose. In this episode, we’re joined by Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson, an expert on 529 programs and the Kansas Learning Quest® plan. He shares insights on how families can make the most of these accounts and confidently plan for their children’s educational journeys. Topics we cover include: What a 529 plan is, along with its uses and key benefits The best time to open a 529 account Who can contribute to a 529 plan and contribution limits Guidance on setting up a 529 account Tune in for an informative conversation designed to help you better understand 529 plans and how they can support your child’s educational future.   Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson was born and raised on a cattle and grain farm near Assaria, Kansas. After graduating from Southeast Saline High School, Steven went on to study Agricultural Economics at Kansas State University, where he was elected Student Body President and graduated with honors. Steven began his career in the financial services sector while remaining involved in the family farm. He continued his education at the University of Chicago where he received a Masters in Business Administration with an emphasis in finance and business policy. Steven’s financially-focused education was a valued tool in the financial services sector when he led the development of an asset allocation software program that calculated the highest return of investment for a particular need. His interest and expertise in financial issues during the economic downturn of 2008-09 was a catalyst in his decision to enter public service. Steven ran for the state legislature and was elected in 2010. His financial and agricultural background led to committee appointments including Chairman of the Tax Committee, Chairman of Insurance and Pensions Committee, and a member of committees including Appropriations and Agriculture and Natural Resources. Steven was elected the state’s 42nd state treasurer in 2022 and assumed office on January 9, 2023.   Before investing, carefully consider the plan's investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This information and more about the plan can be found in the Learning Quest Handbook, available by contacting American Century Investment Services, Inc., Distributor, at 1-800-579-2203, and should be read carefully before investing. If you are not a Kansas taxpayer, consider before investing whether the beneficiary's or your home state offers a 529 Plan that provides its taxpayers with state tax and other benefits not available through this plan. Notice: Accounts established under Learning Quest and their earnings are neither insured nor guaranteed by the state of Kansas, the Kansas State Treasurer or American Century. Administered by the Kansas State Treasurer, Steven Johnson. Managed by American Century Investment Management, Inc. The availability of tax or other state benefits (such as financial aid, scholarship funds, and protection from creditors) may be conditioned on meeting certain requirements, such as residency, purpose for or timing of distributions, or other factors. As with any investment, it is possible to lose money by investing in this plan. The value of your Learning Quest account may fluctuate, and it is possible for the value of your account to be less than the amount you invested. The earnings portion of non-qualified withdrawals is subject to federal and state income taxes and a 10% federal penalty. Please consult your tax advisor for more detailed information regarding the Roth IRA or for advice regarding your individual situation. Taxes are deferred until withdrawal if the requirements are met. A 10% penalty may be imposed for withdrawal prior to reaching age 59 ½. ©2025 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. Connect with Megan and Sarah We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!

    16 min
  8. 11/17/2025

    The Dangers of Fentanyl and How Parents Can Help | Kansas City MomCast Sponsored Episode

    This podcast is sponsored by Children's Mercy. Every 8 minutes, one American life is lost to fentanyl. In 2021, fentanyl was responsible for 77% of drug-induced deaths for ages 14-18. Kansas City is not immune to this growing problem. Today we are talking with Jenny Ecord, who tells the story of her nephew, Cooper, who lost his life to fentanyl poisoning at 16. Her family has made it their mission to spread awareness and education about fentanyl in his honor. We also hear from Dr. Michelle DePhillips, a pediatric emergency medicine physician at Children's Mercy. She discusses what she sees in the ER in Kansas City, why fentanyl is dangerous for teens, and how we can prevent future tragedies. In our conversation we cover: How prominent fentanyl issues are in the KC metro What does fentanyl does to the body. Common ages for fentanyl related emergencies. How these drugs get in the hands of teens. How one family turned a tragedy into a prevention program for teens. How parents can have important conversations about drugs with their kids. Jenny Ecord, RN, APRN-C is a wife, mother, sister, aunt and daughter. She is also a pediatric nurse practitioner at Children’s Mercy and has been a strong advocate for children her entire career. Her story of fentanyl is a very personal family tragedy. She is the aunt of a young teenager, Cooper, who lost his life to a fentanyl poisoning in August 2021. Cooper was 16 years old when he died. Jenny and her family have made it their mission to spread awareness and education about fentanyl in Coop’s honor. They do not want any other family to suffer a devastating loss like theirs has. A foundation has been created for this cause along with a strong social media presence. Jenny and her sister-in-law, Cooper’s mother, have talked in schools, at parent meetings, neighborhood gatherings, churches to share their message. They have met with many political and law enforcement officials and are working closely with these organizations. Michelle DePhillips, MD, is a pediatric emergency medicine physician and pediatric emergency medicine resident rotation director at Children’s Mercy. She is also an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine and a Clinical Assistance Professor of Pediatrics at University of Kansas School of Medicine. Dr. DePhillips attended medical school at Creighton University School of Medicine before competing residency and fellowship at Children’s Mercy. In addition to emergency medicine and teaching residents, her interests also include appropriate opioid prescribing and global health.   Connect with Megan and Sarah We would love to hear from you! Send us an e-mail or find us on Instagram or Facebook!

    23 min
5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Kansas City MomCast — a place to learn, connect, and grow in a relevant and intentional way. Join us as we interview experts in the field and hear from local moms, just like you. This is a podcast FOR Kansas City Moms, BY Kansas City Moms. We know that your time is precious and we’re grateful you’ve chosen to spend some of it with us. Thank you for being a part of the Kansas City Mom Collective community.