MomsWork Podcast

Kristin Weinrich

Welcome to the MomsWork Podcast — where career meets motherhood and real life happens in between. I’m Kristin Weinrich, a working mom navigating the chaos, the career, the cooking... and yes, the crying! Each week, we get real with moms making it work — from classrooms to boardrooms and everything in between. No fluff, no judgment — just honest talk, helpful tips, and the support we all need.

  1. DEC 23

    Three Best Traditions of Christmas and Hanukkah with Alison Ostroff Ep 12

    🎄🕎 MomsWork Podcast — Episode #12 The Three Best Traditions of Christmas & Hanukkah With special guest Alison Ostroff In our final holiday episode of MomsWork for 2025, host Kristin Weinrich is joined by friend and guest Alison Ostroff for a festive, thoughtful conversation comparing the five best traditions of Christmas and Hanukkah. From candles and cookies to songs, stories, and family memories, this episode is all about what makes the holiday season feel magical — even in the midst of December chaos. Together, Kristin and Alison explore how traditions evolve as kids grow, what it’s like celebrating a holiday that isn’t the cultural majority, and why slowing down matters more than ever this time of year. Whether you’re wrapping presents, lighting candles, spinning a dreidel, or hiding from your to-do list, this episode is a cozy reminder that the heart of the holidays is connection. ✨ In This Episode, We Talk About: Alison’s life, family, work, and hobbies The importance of support systems in parenting Stepping outside your comfort zone as a mom and professional Win & Challenge of the Week from both Kristin and Alison How holiday traditions change as kids grow up Common misconceptions about Hanukkah What Christmas and Hanukkah traditions they’d swap The challenges of celebrating a non-majority holiday The three best Hanukkah traditions, according to Alison 🔥 Hot Seat (Rapid-Fire Fun!) Alison answers quick questions like: Applesauce or sour cream? Favorite night of Hanukkah Dreidel strategy: skill or luck? Best Hanukkah smell Most overrated and underrated traditions Dream Hanukkah vacation destination …and so many more! 💛 Final Thoughts This episode celebrates the beauty of honoring different traditions while finding common ground in family, joy, and togetherness. We hope it inspires you to embrace what makes your holiday season special. 📣 Stay Connected If you enjoyed this episode: Follow MomsWork Podcast on Instagram and Facebook Listen, follow, rate, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Wishing you and your family a Happy Hanukkah and a Merry Christmas! 🎄🕎

    1h 6m
  2. DEC 16

    Making Christmas Magical (Without Losing Your Mind!) with Rebecca McDonagh (aka @mathwithmissmcd) Ep 11

    Episode 11: Making Christmas Magical-Without Losing Your Mind (with Becca McDonagh of @mathwithmissmcd) Guest: Becca McDonagh — Teacher, Mom of Two, Author  of Math to the Music (Grades 4 and 5) coming out in spring of 2026, and Creator of MathWithMissMcD on instagram. Welcome back to a very festive episode of MomsWork! I’m your host, Kristin Weinrich — mom of two, 4th-grade teacher, and currently knee-deep in wrapping paper, cookie crumbs, and a to-do list longer than Santa’s. Let’s be honest: I’d love to tell you to curl up with hot cocoa by the fire while listening…but you’re probably wrapping presents in a panic while watching a Hallmark movie. Wherever you are and whatever version of “Christmas magic” you’re living today, I’m so glad you’re here. About Today’s Guest Joining me is someone who understands the December juggle better than almost anyone: Becca McDonagh — mom of two, fellow teacher, upcoming author of her debut book releasing May 2026, and the brilliant comedic mind behind @mathwithmissmcd on Instagram. If you’ve ever laughed at one of her reels decoding student name mysteries or survived a mid-December classroom meltdown with the help of humor… you already know why I’m fangirling. Today, we’re talking about how to create holiday magic for our families and ourselves — without the pressure, perfectionism, or losing your sanity in the Christmas chaos. In This Episode, We Chat About: Getting to Know Becca How parenting has helped her navigate tricky moments in the classroomThe best compliment someone can give herHer biggest challenge as a working momWins & Challenges of the Week We each share: One small (or big!) victory worth celebratingOne challenge that reminded us we’re all human and all doing our bestHoliday Magic… the Realistic Version Becca’s favorite classroom holiday activitiesWhat “holiday magic” actually means to herChildhood traditions that shaped the way she celebrates nowWhat Christmas is like in Florida — and how it compares to colder placesTraditions she keeps, and the ones she’s let go of for sanity’s sakeManaging the stress of shopping, cooking, and family gatheringsBoundaries she’s learned to set during the holidaysHow (and whether!) she involves her kids in the magicThe small traditions that bring the biggest joyWhat she hopes her kids remember mostHer one piece of advice for moms feeling overwhelmed this seasonHot Seat A fun rapid-fire round to wrap things up! Where to Find Becca Instagram: @mathwithmissmcdFacebook: Rebecca McDonaghHer upcoming book Math to the Music (Grade 4 and 5) arrives May/June 2026 — stay tuned!Thanks for Listening! Thank you for joining us for this cozy-chaotic, festive conversation on keeping holiday magic alive while still giving yourself the opportunity to enjoy it, too. Be sure to:  ⭐ Follow MomsWork Podcast on Instagram & Facebook ⭐ Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts ⭐ Like, share, and leave a review to help other moms find the show Wishing you a holly jolly Christmas and a jingle-bell-rockin’ New Year!

    1h 25m
  3. DEC 9

    Creating a Cozy Christmas with Ruth McKeaney of Hungry for Home Ep 10

    Episode 10 — Creating a Cozy Holiday Season with Ruth McKeaney Welcome back to MomsWork! In today’s episode, host Kristin Weinrich—mom of two, 4th grade teacher, and holiday-season enthusiast—sits down with the incredibly inspiring Ruth McKeaney. Ruth is a mom of five, home restorer, author of Hungry for Home: A Year Together at Hillside Farm, host of At Home with Ruth McKeaney on Homeworthy, and a true lover of homemaking and hospitality. Whether you celebrate Christmas, another holiday, or simply love the magic of winter, this conversation is full of ideas for creating warmth, connection, and meaning in your home during the coziest time of year. In This Episode, We Discuss: ✨ Getting to Know Ruth How she describes herself as a mom, creator, and homemaker Her best parenting advice Three words that describe her The accomplishment she’s most proud of ✨ Win & Challenge of the Week Kristin and Ruth each share a recent “win” and a “challenge”—big or small—that brought growth, humor, or perspective to their week. ✨ Creating a Cozy Holiday Home Ruth and Kristin dive into: What a “cozy holiday” means to each of them Childhood memories that shaped their favorite traditions Sights, scents, and sounds that bring the season to life Favorite winter and holiday recipes Easy, inexpensive ways to make your home feel instantly festive How Ruth and her husband chose meaningful family traditions How traditions evolve as kids grow Keeping gift-giving simple and joyful What Ruth hopes her children remember most about Christmas Her one piece of advice for a calmer, more peaceful holiday season 🔥 Hot Seat: Rapid Fire Holiday Edition Kristin puts Ruth on the spot with some festive fun: Stockings before or after breakfast? Eggnog: yes or no? Favorite Christmas movie? Wrapping paper or gift bags? Favorite Christmas song? Snow angels or snowball fight? Connect With Ruth McKeaney Instagram & Facebook: @Hungry4Home Website: https://www.hungry4home.com/  YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=homeworthy%2C+at+home+with+ruth+mckeaney  Episode Wrap-Up Kristin wraps up with gratitude for Ruth’s warmth and wisdom. If you’re aiming for a cozy, meaningful, and joy-filled holiday season—without the overwhelm—this episode is packed with inspiration. Next week: Kristin chats with Becca McDonagh, known as mathwithmissmcd, about teaching, parenting, humor, and embracing the chaos with laughter. Stay Connected Follow @MomsWorkPodcast on Instagram and Facebook Listen to and follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Wishing you and your family a cozy, festive, and peaceful holiday season! 🎄✨

    1h 15m
  4. NOV 25

    Women's Health part 2 (40s and 50s) with Drs. Gilbert and Hahn Ep 9

    Episode 9: Women’s Health in Your 40s & 50s — Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause with Paoli OB/GYN Welcome back to MomsWork! In this episode, host Kristin Weinrich — mom of two, 4th grade teacher, and proud non-eater of gravy or stuffing — continues the important two-part conversation on women’s health with three returning guests from Paoli OB/GYN: Dr. Jennifer Gilbert, Dr. Nancey Hahn.  Last week, we explored health in our 20s and 30s. Today, we’re shifting into the next chapter: women’s health in the 40s and 50s, a stage where many women find themselves navigating perimenopause, menopause, big hormonal changes, and a whole lot of confusion about what’s normal. This conversation is part of Kristin’s gratitude spotlight for the month—highlighting the incredible healthcare professionals in our community who generously share their knowledge to help moms feel informed and confident. Win and Challenge of the Week  Topic Talk: Understanding the Midlife Transition Together, Kristin and the doctors dive into the most common questions and concerns women have as they enter midlife, including: Perimenopause vs. Menopause: What’s the actual difference, and how do you know where you are in the process?Early signs in your 40s: What women often miss or misinterpret — and why it’s more common than you think.“Is something wrong with me?” The symptoms that are completely normal… and the ones worth checking out.The most common concerns doctors hear from women in their 40s and 50s — including the issues that tend to get overlooked.Birth control in midlife: Why many women benefit from staying on it through their 40s and early 50s.Hot flashes, night sweats, brain fog: Effective treatments that are actually backed by evidence (no guesswork here!).Lifestyle factors that matter most: How sleep, stress, movement, and nutrition support hormone balance.Hormones + mental health: What to know about mood changes, anxiety, and emotional shifts during this transition.Warning signs that point to something more than hormonal changes.Caring for everyone else: How midlife moms can prioritize their health while raising teens, supporting college-age kids, or caring for aging parents.Must-do screenings in your 40s and 50s that are often missed.Modeling openness for your daughters: How talking about your body builds body literacy and confidence for the next generation.The biggest message these doctors want every woman to hear about this stage of life.The Hot Seat: Women’s Health Edition A rapid-fire round where the doctors answer: One thing women in their 40s should start doing todayA common piece of advice they wish women would ignoreTheir favorite part of working with women in midlifeSomething they wish all women would stop apologizing forWhat gives them hope about how conversations around menopause are changingFavorite Thanksgiving foodsThank You & Outro Kristin wraps up by thanking the doctors — and you — for joining this essential conversation about women’s health beyond the childbearing years. If this episode brought you insight, comfort, or even a few “aha” moments, please support the show by: ⭐ Following, rating, and reviewing MomsWork wherever you listen to podcasts 📸 Following along on Instagram & Facebook: @MomsWorkPodcast 📧 Sending questions or topic suggestions to: momsworkpodcast@gmail.com Have a wonderful week — and make time to prioritize your health today, this week, or sometime this month. You deserve it.

    1h 7m
  5. NOV 11

    Women's Health part 1 (20s and 30s) with Drs. Gilbert and Hahn Ep 8

    🎙️ MomsWork Podcast — Episode 8: Women’s Health in Your 20s and 30s Host: Kristin Weinrich  Guests: Dr. Jennifer Gilbert, OB/GYN, Paoli OB/GYN (Axia Women’s Health)Dr. Nancey Hahn, OB/GYN, Paoli OB/GYN (Axia Women’s Health)https://axiawh.com/locations/paoli-obgyn/ Paoli OBGYN 🩺 Episode Overview This month on MomsWork, we’re celebrating gratitude by focusing on something that deserves more of it: women’s health. In this first part of our two-part series, Kristin sits down with Dr. Jennifer Gilbert and Dr. Nancey Hahn to talk about what women in their 20s and 30s should know about their reproductive and overall health — from fertility to postpartum recovery and everything in between. 💬 In This Episode We cover: Common health myths and misconceptions about reproductive healthUnderstanding your fertility timeline and the realities of “waiting until you’re ready”Early signs of fertility issues to look out forHow lifestyle factors like stress, sleep, and nutrition affect menstrual healthThe truth about birth control and how it impacts fertilityPreparing your body for pregnancyAdvocating for yourself through pregnancy and postpartum careThe often-overlooked realities of postpartum recoverySupporting your mental health through hormonal shifts, and postpartum depressionOne piece of advice each doctor wishes every woman in her 20s and 30s knew 🌟 Segment Highlights Win & Challenge of the Week: Kristin and her guests share personal or professional highs and hurdles. Hot Seat: A rapid-fire round of fun — from favorite Thanksgiving dishes to guilty pleasures. 💖 Key Takeaway Your 20s and 30s are a time of incredible change — physically, emotionally, and mentally. Proactive care, honest conversations with your providers, and compassion for yourself are the best ways to stay healthy and strong during these decades. 📅 Coming Up Next Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore women’s health in the 40s and 50s — including perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. 📲 Connect with MomsWork Follow and share: Instagram | Facebook 💌 Email: momsworkpodcast@gmail.com 🎧 Listen, follow, and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts!

    1h 5m
  6. OCT 28

    Raising Children Who Love to Read (and Write!) with Heather Stigall Ep 7

    🎙️ MomsWork Podcast – Episode #7 Guest: Heather Stigall | Children’s Book Author & Mom of 5 Topic: Raising Readers & Writers + “Gilbert and the Ghost” Welcome back to another episode of MomsWork! I’m your host, Kristin Weinrich—mom of two, 4th grade teacher, and book lover. Today I’m joined by Heather Stigall, a fellow mom and the talented author of Gilbert and the Ghost and Paisley’s Big Birthday. Heather and I talk about the path from dreamer to published author, how motherhood inspires creativity, and the joy (and challenge!) of raising readers and writers. You’ll also hear some great tips for encouraging a love of reading and writing in your own home—plus a few fun rapid-fire questions just in time for Halloween. 💬 In This Episode: Heather’s journey from aspiring writer to children’s book authorBehind the scenes of Gilbert and the Ghost (a not-too-spooky story for Halloween!)How kids can spark creative ideasTips for raising book lovers—even if your child “isn’t a reader”Daily habits that build literacySimple and fun writing activities for homeWhat NOT to do when encouraging kids to read or writeA few fun Hot Seat questions: ghosts, candy, books & more!🏆 Win & Challenge of the Week: Heather and Kristin share recent parenting or personal wins—and one challenge that kept things interesting this week! 🔥 Hot Seat Questions: Ghosts, Halloween candy, writing tools and more—Heather answers rapid-fire questions to close out the show. 📚 Learn More About Heather: Check out Heather’s books and author updates: 👉 www.HeatherPierceStigall.com The Haunting of Bellington Cottage by Laura Parnum https://www.amazon.com/Haunting-Bellington-Cottage-Laura-Parnum/dp/0063249596  📲 Follow & Connect: Instagram & Facebook: @MomsWorkPodcastEmail: momsworkpodcast@gmail.comListen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you tune inIf you loved this episode, don’t forget to like, follow, and share with your fellow moms!  #momsworkpodcast #reading #writing #childrensauthor #childrensliterature #picturebooks

    1h 11m
  7. OCT 14

    Halloween with Amanda Kurman Ep 6

    🎃 MomsWork Ep. 6 — Costumes, Candy & Chaos: A Halloween Chat with Amanda Kurman Host: Kristin Weinrich Guest: Amanda Kurman Length: ~45 minutes Theme: Halloween memories, parenting tricks, and the magic (and mess) of October 31st.   🎧 Episode Summary: Welcome back to MomsWork — where the tricks are fun and the treats are all in the stories! In this festive episode, we’re diving headfirst into Halloween through the lens of motherhood. From costume hacks to candy control chaos, host Kristin Weinrich is joined by wife, mom, and school secretary extraordinaire Amanda Kurman, who brings both heart and hilarity to the conversation. Amanda shares what Halloween looks like in her home — favorite traditions, costumes past and present, and her take on how moms can reclaim the holiday just a little. Plus, we cover parenting hacks, stress tips, and the biggest compliment Amanda says you can give her. (Spoiler: It’s not just about being funny — but that helps.)   🧡 In This Episode: •Amanda’s parenting hack and how she handles stress •Wins and challenges of the week — real-life mom moments •Halloween talk: costumes, candy strategy, and tradition •What Amanda really hands out to trick-or-treaters •A “Mom’s Dream Halloween” scenario (yes, it includes a Friday or Saturday night every year) •Hot Seat: lightning-round Halloween questions   💬 Hot Seat Highlights: •What’s worse — ghosts or glitter? •Rainy trick-or-treating: worth it or nope? •Favorite candy to sneak from her daughter’s stash •Would Amanda eat only candy corn for a week? 🤔   📚 Coming Up Next: In two weeks, join us for a literary-themed episode with Heather Stigall, mom of five and children’s author. We’ll talk about her newest book Gilbert and the Ghost, plus how to foster a love of reading and writing in your child — from the toddler years through the teen ones. Guest Links: 🔗 Heather’s Website: www.HeatherPierceStigall.com 📖 Order Gilbert and the Ghost: Order Here 📬 Connect With Us: We’d love to hear from you! 📧 Email: momsworkpodcast@gmail.com  💬 Share your feedback, topic ideas, or just say hi!   ⭐ Don’t Forget: If you enjoyed this episode, please: ✅ Like ✅ Follow ✅ Share ✅ Leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! Thanks for tuning in, and until next time — stay cozy, eat the sweets, and have a spooktacular Halloween! 👻🍬

    45 min
  8. OCT 2

    Bonus Episode! The Life of a Showgirl- Taylor Swift album Pre-drop with Kelley Pidhirsky

    🎙️ MomsWork Bonus Episode #1: The Life of a Showgirl Predrop – Taylor’s New Era & Engagement Talk! Hosted by: Kristin Weinrich Guest: Kelley Pidhirksy Release Date: Thursday, October 2, 2025 💬 Episode Summary: SURPRISE! Today we’re hitting pause on the motherhood talk and fully embracing our inner Swifties for a bonus episode you didn’t know you needed! 🎤💍 With just one day until Taylor Swift’s highly anticipated album The Life of a Showgirl drops (October 3rd!), Kristin and fellow mega-fan Kelley Pidhirksy come together for a full-on fan girl session. From favorite Taylor eras and Swiftie swag to thoughts on her engagement to Travis Kelce, we’re diving into all things T-Swift. This episode is for the fans, by the fans — with heart, laughs, and a lot of glitter. ✨ 🗣️ What We Talk About: Our Swiftie origin stories (feat. Kristin’s husband’s surprising fan status!)Raising kids in a Taylor-filled householdFavorite Swiftie swag (friendship bracelets, anyone?)Predictions for The Life of a Showgirl — sound, vibe, and themesHow this era compares to past albums like 1989, Reputation, and LoverThe Travis Kelce effect — how their relationship may have influenced the albumIs this the beginning of a new chapter... or the end of an era?The timing of her engagement: PR strategy, true love, or both?Proposal thoughts + media reactionHow Swifties and NFL fans are reacting to the coupleProphetic lyrics: Was Taylor writing her future all along? ⚡ Swiftie Speed Seat (Rapid Fire!): We wrap with a fast-paced round (that actually lasts much longer than expected) of Taylor questions, Favorite album? Top 3 songs of all time?First song that made you a fan?Favorite Taylor era?Most underrated song?And the ultimate question: Meet Taylor or attend her wedding (no meet)? 📲 Connect With Us: If you loved this episode, share it with your fellow Swifties! 👉 Follow us on Instagram + Facebook: @MomsWorkPodcast 📩 Email us: momsworkpodcast@gmail.com 🎧 Listen, follow, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 💖 Thanks for joining our fan-girl moment — we’ll be back soon with more episodes (mom-themed and otherwise)! #SwiftieStrong

    51 min
4.7
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Welcome to the MomsWork Podcast — where career meets motherhood and real life happens in between. I’m Kristin Weinrich, a working mom navigating the chaos, the career, the cooking... and yes, the crying! Each week, we get real with moms making it work — from classrooms to boardrooms and everything in between. No fluff, no judgment — just honest talk, helpful tips, and the support we all need.

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