The Real Family Eats: Dishing on real parenting struggles and favorite recipes

Reesa Morala, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

We are getting raw and unfiltered about all things parenting. No more "perfect parent" facade. We are pulling back the curtain and talking about the real-life struggles of parenting and how to survive it - with your sanity intact. Starting with helping you with the age-old question of "what are we going to eat today?" Join our host and parenting expert, Reesa Morala, as she talks with parents and tries new recipes.  Make sure to subscribe, like, and follow for more recipes and parenting tips. 

  1. Build Confident Kids Through Family Cooking and Creative Recipes

    1D AGO

    Build Confident Kids Through Family Cooking and Creative Recipes

    Send us a text with your feedback here! On this episode of The Real Family Eats, Reesa sits down with Lace, founder of Tech and Taste, to talk all things family cooking, resilience, and empowering kids in the kitchen. Get ready for practical advice, honest stories, and a killer air fryer burger recipe. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: How Lace’s "Lacey’s Banging Air Fryer Burgers" are the easy, flavorful answer to bland homemade burgersLace’s journey from the UK to Colombia, overcoming unexpected setbacks and parenting challenges abroadThe importance of getting kids involved in the kitchen early to build confidence and life skillsTips for picky eaters and strategies to make family meals less stressful for everyoneThe story behind Tech and Taste and The Flavor Room and how food, business, and community come togetherDon’t miss out on the recipes, real talk, and inspiration for your family mealtimes! Connect:  https://www.facebook.com/iamlaceflowers https://www.instagram.com/techandtastes https://www.techandtastes.com/ _____ Air Fryer Burgers with Hand-Cut Seasoned Chips and Crunchy Slaw Ingredients   For the Burger Patties: 500g mince beef (makes 2 adult burgers and 1 baby burger - adjust for your family's needs) 2 cloves garlic, diced or crushed 1 small white onion, diced 1 Tbsp ghee for frying Sea salt and black pepper for seasoning   For the Hand-Cut Chips: 1 large potato or 2 medium potatoes Garlic powder Smoked paprika Sea salt Black pepper Oil (just a smidge)   For the Burger Station: Brioche buns (1 per burger) Red onion, cut into rings Shredded iceberg lettuce or rocket Ripe avocado for mashing Beef tomato, sliced Cheese slices (smoked German cheese recommended) Chipotle sauce (or ketchup for kids)   For the Crunchy Slaw: 2 medium carrots, grated White cabbage, shredded White onion, sliced Mayonnaise Black pepper Find the full recipe at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats/v/parenting-tip-for-confident-kids ****** Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide! Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe! For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/ If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area. Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988 Go to your local hospital or call 911

    58 min
  2. Finding Hope After Loss: Jamie’s Guide to Grieving While Parenting

    DEC 9

    Finding Hope After Loss: Jamie’s Guide to Grieving While Parenting

    Send us a text with your feedback here! Get real about parenting and personal growth in this candid episode of The Real Family Eats featuring guest Jamie B. We dig into Jamie's journey through loss, business ownership, and redefining what matters most as a parent. Jamie’s experience of loss and how it impacted her perspective on parenting and workThe challenges and coping mechanisms involved in grieving as a business ownerPractical steps and advice for homeschooling after public school wasn’t the right fitHow external judgments affect grief and what meaningful support actually looks likeJamie’s transition from vet tech student to successful dog grooming business ownerTune in for real-talk and tangible takeaways for parents facing tough transitions.     From Jamie Buccheri: Homeschool mom of two and business owner of three.     Connect:  @jamie.buccheri   ______   Pickle & Olive Martini ("The Dirty Dirty")   Ingredients: 2 oz gin or vodka (your choice) 0.5 oz dry vermouth 0.5 oz pickle juice 0.5 oz olive brine 1-2 pickle slices (for garnish) 2 green olives (for garnish) Optional: a splash of lemon juice for brightness   Instructions: Fill a shaker with ice. Add the gin/vodka, vermouth, pickle juice, and olive brine. Shake well until chilled. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a skewer of olives and a pickle slice (or get fancy with a mini dill wrapped around the olive). Salty, tangy, and totally unfiltered—just like your podcast episode.   Bacon-Wrapped Dates (Stuffed or Not)   Ingredients: 12 Medjool dates (pitted) 6 slices of thin bacon (cut in half) Optional stuffing: Soft goat cheese Blue cheese Almonds   Instructions: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). If stuffing: slice the date open (but not all the way through) and add a teaspoon of cheese or one almond inside. Close it up. Wrap each date with half a bacon slice and secure with a toothpick. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bacon is crispy. Let cool slightly and drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze if you’re feeling boujee. Sweet, salty, smoky—like a mic drop wrapped in bacon. ****** Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide! Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe! For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/ If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area. Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988 Go to your local hospital or call 911

    34 min
  3. NOV 25

    Finding Yourself After Divorce: Renee's Journey to Resilience and Healing

    Send us a text with your feedback here! Renee Rose joins The Real Family Eats to share her personal journey through parenting, divorce, and finding strength as a single mom—all while cooking up a European-inspired carbonara. In this honest conversation, Renee and Reesa get real about the struggles and wins of parenting when life doesn’t go as planned. Renee’s story on becoming a single mom and thriving while raising two sonsThe challenges of navigating divorce—twice—and what helped her finally move forwardWhat inspired Renee’s quest to recreate authentic European carbonara at homeThe importance of self-care for parents and how Renee learned to put herself firstHow tough transitions built resilience, love, and lasting bonds with her children    From Renee: I have been a single mom for many years and an educator for decades. I now have 2 grown sons who have moved out of our home and have lived independently for many years.   ______   Spaghetti Carbonara   Courtesy of: https://easyweeknight.com/spaghetti-carbonara/ ______________ ****** Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide! Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe! For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/ If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area. Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988 Go to your local hospital or call 911

    50 min
  4. Embracing Imperfect Parenting and Homemade Cosmic Brownie Cookies with Dr. Taylor Harper

    NOV 11

    Embracing Imperfect Parenting and Homemade Cosmic Brownie Cookies with Dr. Taylor Harper

    Send us a text with your feedback here! In this episode of The Real Family Eats, Dr. Taylor Harper, a child psychologist, mom of two, and children’s book author, joins Reesa for a refreshingly honest discussion about parenting, homeschooling, and real life in the kitchen. Skip the fluff and get the truth behind the chaos, challenges, and small victories of raising kids. Tips and mindset shifts Dr. Harper uses to manage parenting stress and stay presentHonest talk on homeschooling, socialization myths, and choosing what’s best for your familyHow to handle big personalities in kids, including creative ways to channel energy (like WWE wrestling and throwing games)Real strategies for managing parental anger, apologizing to your kids, and fostering emotional connectionThe importance of finding small breaks, self-care rituals, and letting go of unrealistic social media standardsDon’t forget to check the links for Dr. Harper’s books and resources at the end!     From Dr. Taylor Harper: Im a child psychologist who focuses on sibling bonds and sel. Im also a mom who lets my kids swear and normalize the struggle.     Connect:  @ drtaylorharperatbettertogether ______   Cosmic Brownie Cookies   1/2 c unsalted butter softened 1/2 c light brown sugar 1/4 c granulated sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp light corn syrup 1/4 tsp baking soda 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 c dark cocoa powder 1 1/4 c all-purpose flour   Toppings: 3/4 semi-sweet chocolate chips 1/4 c heavy cream Rainbow chip sprinkles   Instructions: Preheat oven to 350F In a large bowl, use an electric mixer on medium-high speed to cream softened unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar for 2 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and light corn syrup and mix on low speed until combined.  Scrape down the sides of the bowl so everything can combine.  Add in baking soda and salt and mix for another 5-10 seconds until combined. Lastly, add dark cocoa powder and all-purpose flour and mix on medium until combined.  Scoop dough into 1/4 c sized scoops, roll into balls, then gently flatten each dough ball into a 1/2" thick disc; this will help them spread instead of be puffy.  Bake at 350F for 11-12 minutes. Do not overbake. The centers may look a tiny bit wet but will continue to bake on the hot pan, allowing them to firm up without overbaking.  Allow to fully cool before decorating. ****** Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide! Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe! For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/ If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area. Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988 Go to your local hospital or call 911

    57 min
  5. Grief Share: Jason Tuttle on Parenting, Therapy, Healing, and Letters to Zachary

    OCT 28

    Grief Share: Jason Tuttle on Parenting, Therapy, Healing, and Letters to Zachary

    Send us a text with your feedback here! Dive into Jason Tuttle's powerful story about parenting two medically fragile children and the lessons learned along the way. In this episode, you'll hear firsthand experiences, practical cooking tips, and an honest look at grief and resilience. Jason's journey as a father to two children with severe neurological delays and medical needsThe simple and adaptable Betsy's black bean chili recipe, including ingredient tips and why it's a family favoriteManaging mental health as a parent facing ongoing crisis, including grief, anger, and the realities of self-careHow Jason and his family coped with unexpected loss and the emotional aftermathThe creation and mission behind "Letters to Zachary"—a grief resource platform for families navigating similar challengesDon't forget to check the show notes for resources and ways to connect with Jason.   From Jason: I am a married father of two kids with multiple mental and physical disabilities (some rare). I was a Stay-at-Home Dad for 12 years until my son suddenly and unexpectedly passed away from issues related to his needs on 01/28/22. Since the day my son passed, I created a website, FB blog, and community (Letters To Zachary) on grief that details my raw, unfiltered and open grief journey from a male's/father's perspective.   Connect:  www.LettersToZachary.com Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552174684952 Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/letters2zachary/   ______   Betsy's Black Bean Chili   1 pound ground round 2 (15 ounce) cans no-salt-added black beans 2 (8 ounce) cans no-salt-added tomato sauce 1 (8 ounce) jar salsa, or to taste 1 tablespoon chili seasoning mix   Step 1 Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir beef in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes; drain and discard grease.   Step 2 Drain one can of black beans pour into a large pot over medium heat; add second can black beans, tomato sauce, salsa, and chili seasoning mix. Stir cooked ground round into the beans mixture, bring to a simmer, and cook until the flavors blend, 20 to 25 minutes. ****** Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide! Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe! For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/ If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area. Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988 Go to your local hospital or call 911

    1 hr
  6. Navigating the Adoption Process: Dana Parisi's Resilient Journey

    OCT 14

    Navigating the Adoption Process: Dana Parisi's Resilient Journey

    Send us a text with your feedback here! Parenting coach and mom of four Dana Parisi joins Reesa to share her family’s favorite Tuna Noodle Casserole recipe—and the real-life challenges of parenting through adoption, trauma, and busy schedules. Tune in for practical cooking tips and an honest conversation about building resilience and support as caregivers.   In this episode: Easy steps and pro tips for making a family-friendly Tuna Noodle Casserole ("Tuna Noodle Stinkle")Navigating the adoption process, its unpredictability, and its impact on family dynamicsDana’s journey from physical therapist to parent coach supporting families of kids with trauma and neurodiversitiesThe real struggles of parenting, including meltdowns, embarrassment, and the importance of building your villageInsights on self-care, vulnerability, and reframing discipline to meet kids’ underlying needsGet more support from Dana at livestouchcoaching.com and check out the linked resources.   From Dana: Dana is a mom of 4 (2 biological and 2 adopted) and through her own parenting journey, was humbled to realize she needed more parenting tools in her tool belt. This started a path that eventually led to her supporting other parents through parent coaching. Dana is passionate about working with families of kids who have persistent challenging behaviors as a result of early life trauma, neuro-diversity or mental health struggles.   Connect:  https://www.livestouchedcoaching.com/#/   https://www.instagram.com/dana.parisi/   https://www.facebook.com/livestouched   https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-parisi-157758210/   ______   Tuna Noodle Casserole   15 oz macaroni or corkscrew noodles cooked and drained 10 oz chopped frozen broccoli thawed 1-2 tsp minced onion 1 can cream of broccoli (or celery) soup 1 can broccoli cheese soup 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese 1 large can tuna, rinsed and drained 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp pepper   Mix together, put into a buttered casserole dish back at 375 degrees for 45 minutes. * add crunched up chips on top, cheddar ruffle potato chips are are favorite * add hot sauce if you like it spicy!     ****** Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide! Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe! For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/ If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area. Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988 Go to your local hospital or call 911

    52 min
  7. The Power of Story: Bambi on Parenting, Military Kids, and Her Grandmother’s Coffee Cake

    SEP 30

    The Power of Story: Bambi on Parenting, Military Kids, and Her Grandmother’s Coffee Cake

    Send us a text with your feedback here! On this episode of The Real Family Eats, host Reesa sits down with Bambi, a mother of six and grandmother of thirteen, to talk about the real challenges and rewards of parenting through every stage of life. Bambi shares honest insights from her journey as a single mom, her experiences with homeschooling, military parenting, and keeping family traditions alive. Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode: Bambi’s personal story as a single mom of six, including how she navigated raising kids and reinventing herself after becoming an empty nester.The realities and emotional challenges of having children in the military and the unique transitions that come with it.Reflections on motherhood, letting go, and supporting adult children as they start their own families and set their own traditions.Bambi’s advice on navigating tricky relationships with in-laws, and how to handle boundaries and expectations as new generations grow.The importance of sharing vulnerable parenting moments, plus Bambi’s family-favorite coffee cake recipe and the significance of family recipes in keeping loved ones close.  Connect with Bambi: healingthroughstories.com  facebook-bambi lynn,  IG-lynn.bambi Tiktok-healing through stories[bambi]  linkedin-bambi makowski   ___________________   Grandma's Coffee Cake   3/4butter 2eggs  1 1/2 cups of sugar 1 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla 3 cups of flour 1 1/2 cups of sour cream 1 1/2 teaspoon of brown sugar  1 1/2 teaspoon bp mix and put half in bunt pan  Then add brown sugar, chocolate chips, and cinnamon. repeat and then top again  Cook for 30 to 40 minutes, on 350 ****** Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide! Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe! For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/ If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area. Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988 Go to your local hospital or call 911

    57 min
  8. Truths About Postpartum No One Tells You: Courtney’s Experience and Advice

    SEP 16

    Truths About Postpartum No One Tells You: Courtney’s Experience and Advice

    Send us a text with your feedback here! Join us on The Real Family Eats as Reesa chats with Courtney Boylan, founder and CEO of Lelo, about her real experiences with postpartum life, parenting, and making self-care a priority. Discover a family-friendly energy ball recipe and practical advice for navigating the chaos of parenthood. How Courtney’s postpartum journey inspired her to start a company for momsThe versatile and easy energy ball recipe every busy parent should tryReal talk on postpartum expectations vs. reality (including mental health)The importance of self-care, date nights, and maintaining relationships after kidsWhy it’s crucial to advocate for yourself and trust your parental instinctsWatch now for actionable tips, honest stories, and a community that keeps it real!   From Courtney: I’m Courtney, the founder of Le Lolo, a brand redefining postpartum with beautiful, functional accessories for new moms. As a mom of three, I know firsthand how overwhelming those early days can be, and I’m on a mission to help new moms feel more supported, confident, and celebrated.   Connect:  Www.WeAreLeLolo.com @WeAreLeLolo   ________________________   Energy Ball Recipe Courtesy of: https://www.wellplated.com/energy-balls/#wprm-recipe-container-33259 Make them to your liking, but I use coconut, chopped cranberries, chopped almonds, almond butter as mix-ins ________________________ ****** Host: Reesa Morala, MA, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Reesa is a parenting specialist with a niche in supporting couples. Find Reesa hosting couples and parenting workshops nationwide! Make sure to like, follow, and subscribe! For the video version of this episode find us at: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/ If you are a parent ready to share your real-life parenting struggle and dish up a recipe with Reesa, apply here: https://www.embracerenewaltherapy.com/real-family-eats-guest If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need personalized support, please seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, contact emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area. Suicide and Crisis Line: Text or Call 988 Go to your local hospital or call 911

    49 min

About

We are getting raw and unfiltered about all things parenting. No more "perfect parent" facade. We are pulling back the curtain and talking about the real-life struggles of parenting and how to survive it - with your sanity intact. Starting with helping you with the age-old question of "what are we going to eat today?" Join our host and parenting expert, Reesa Morala, as she talks with parents and tries new recipes.  Make sure to subscribe, like, and follow for more recipes and parenting tips.