How to Be a Grownup: A Humorous Guide for Moms, with CK & GK

Jenny GK and Caitlin Kindred
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Hey there! We’re Caitlin and Jenny (she/her). We host How to Be a Grownup: A Humorous Guide for Moms, with CK & GK, AKA the CK & GK Podcast. Our show is dedicated to any mom who's ever looked around and thought, "I need an adultier-adult than me to handle this."We're moms just like you, navigating the everyday chaos and unexpected surprises. We bring a relatable and humorous perspective to parenting, drawing on our own experiences and sharing honest, practical advice you can actually use in your own life.We aim to create a supportive and entertaining space where listeners can learn, laugh, and connect with other adults who are just trying to figure it all out. By offering relatable stories, expert advice, and a healthy dose of humor, we hope to empower listeners to embrace the ups and downs of adulthood with confidence and a positive attitude.___Caitlin and Jenny are based in Austin, Texas. They're both married to cool people and parents to cool kids. Caitlin is a former middle school teacher and Jenny is a middle school assistant principal. They're besties who love to laugh. 

  1. 32 Winter Break Activities That Won't Drive You (or Your Kids) Crazy

    23H AGO

    32 Winter Break Activities That Won't Drive You (or Your Kids) Crazy

    Send us a Text! It's winter break and your kids are already saying "I'm bored" on day two. You're trying to get holiday stuff done relax, but also prevent them from bouncing off the walls for the next week and a half. How do you keep everyone entertained without becoming a full-time cruise director? We're sharing 32 indoor and outdoor activities organized by age group—from preschoolers to teenagers—so you can actually enjoy the break instead of just surviving it. No need to scramble for winter break activities—hit subscribe and get 32 ideas for every age that'll keep your kids entertained (and give you some breathing room). Click here for this episode’s blog post with links to sources and even more content.Stay connected: Subscribe to our newsletter!— Who Should Listen This episode is for parents facing a long winter break who need activities that don't require a Pinterest degree or going broke, and anyone who's already heard "I'm bored" more times than they can count. ****— What You Get In This Episode Indoor + outdoor activities by ageCommunity service ideas for teens that count toward college applicationsPermission to build in breaks for yourself (PBS is a great babysitter, we said it)Why you need novelty and a routine even during break (including TV time and screen time—we're not monsters)Plus! Holiday party games that work for the whole family: balloon cup battle, candy cane fishing, whipped cream challenges, and more!— Bios Caitlin and Jenny are two friends navigating the hilarious and sometimes chaotic world of parenthood—from figuring out what to do with kids over long breaks to actually enjoying family time instead of just surviving it. — Sources & Mentions Family game videos mentioned in this episode (links on the blog)The Art of Noticing by Rob WalkerNote: This is a re-aired episode from Season 3 with timeless activity ideas. Whether it's winter break, spring break, or summer—these activities work year-round (but maybe rename those holiday games in June!). The best support is a rating and a share. Love,CK & GK Support the show View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on - Instagram - Facebook - TikTok Thanks, y'all!

    53 min
  2. Holiday Photo Panic-Posing? 3 Simple Tricks to Look Better in Every Picture

    DEC 16

    Holiday Photo Panic-Posing? 3 Simple Tricks to Look Better in Every Picture

    Send us a Text! Raise your hand if you've ever looked at a holiday photo and thought, "What was I DOING with my hands?" Or noticed your arm looks twice its normal size pressed against your body? Or realized your front leg looks like a column instead of, you know, a leg? You deserve to look back at holiday photos and love what you see. We're breaking down three photographer-approved fixes that'll instantly make you look more confident and relaxed in every picture—no awkward posing required. Stop dreading holiday photos and get in front of that camera, Mama. Hit subscribe and learn the simple hand, leg, and arm tricks that'll make you look (and feel) amazing in every picture this season. Note: This is a re-aired episode with timeless photo advice that works for any occasion—holidays, weddings, family gatherings, or just when someone pulls out their phone and says "let me get a picture!" Click here for this episode’s blog post with links to sources and even more content.Stay connected: Subscribe to our newsletter!— Who Should Listen This episode is for anyone who hates how they look in photos because they don't know what to do with their body, and everyone who's ever said "I'm just not photogenic" (spoiler: you probably just need better posing habits). — What You Get In This Episode How to avoid “slug fingers” and the S-curve secretSitting and standing angles that slim what's closest to the cameraThe "teapot" and "raptor" poses that open your shoulders without looking stagedGroup photo tricks that solve "where do my arms go?" questions once and for allBonus: Minute-to-win-it party games that require zero setup and maximum laughs— Bios Caitlin and Jenny are two friends navigating the hilarious and sometimes chaotic world of adulthood—from awkward family photos to holiday party planning. They're here to share relatable stories, practical advice, and a healthy dose of laughter along the way. — Sources & Mentions I’m a Photographer and These Are the 3 Things You Should Avoid Doing in Photos | By Marissa Wu for PureWow The best support is a rating and a share. Love,CK & GK Support the show View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on - Instagram - Facebook - TikTok Thanks, y'all!

    30 min
  3. What Does "Festive Attire" Even Mean? Your Holiday Dress Code Survival Guide

    DEC 9

    What Does "Festive Attire" Even Mean? Your Holiday Dress Code Survival Guide

    Send us a Text! Ever gotten a "dress casual" invite and thought "what does that even MEAN?" Or worse—shown up to a "festive" party in sequins only to realize everyone else interpreted it as ugly sweaters? Same. Holiday dress codes are confusing, ambiguous, and honestly? Half the time hosts don't even know what they're asking for. We're decoding every dress code from casual to white tie so you never have to panic-Google "what to wear" again. Stop stressing about what to wear to holiday parties—hit subscribe and get the breakdown of every dress code plus scripts to ask hosts when you're confused (because "festive" means nothing). Note: This is a re-aired episode with timeless advice about dress codes. Whether you're going to holiday parties, weddings, or any formal event, these guidelines still apply. Subscribe today and get our free dress code cheat sheet as a thank you!Click here for this episode’s blog post with links to sources and even more content.— Who Should Listen This episode is for anyone who's ever shown up overdressed, underdressed, or just plain confused about what "dressy casual" means, and hosts who want to stop torturing their guests with ambiguous dress codes. — What You Get In This Episode What casual, dressy casual, business, cocktail, semi-formal, black tie optional, black tie, and white tie actually mean (with real examples), and how fabrics, straps, and structure change formality levelsQuick rules for shoes, socks, and seasonal accessories that matterWhy "festive" and "holiday" dress codes are traps—and what to do about themSimple scripts to ask the host about expectations without feeling awkwardThe party-hopping rulePLUS! Tips for hosts: how to write clear invitations with examples and tone-setting language— Bios Caitlin brings her signature blend of humor and practical advice to help overwhelmed moms navigate the challenges of adulting—including not showing up to parties in the wrong outfit. With Jenny, who loves sequins, understands formality levels, and won't judge you for asking "wait, what does tropical black tie mean?" — Sources & Mentions Decoding Invitation Dress Codes | By Meg Hemphill for HuffPost LifeAttire Guide: Dress Codes from Casual to White Tie Formal | Emily Post The best support is a rating and a share. Love,CK & GK Support the show View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on - Instagram - Facebook - TikTok Thanks, y'all!

    38 min
  4. 8 Social Media Mistakes That'll Ruin Your Holidays—And How to Avoid Them (Re-release)

    DEC 2

    8 Social Media Mistakes That'll Ruin Your Holidays—And How to Avoid Them (Re-release)

    Send us a Text! The holidays bring out the best in us—and sometimes the absolute worst on social media. Gift bragging, family drama aired publicly, political hot takes that start comment wars... we've all seen it (or been guilty of it). This week we're breaking down 8 types of posts to skip this season and why they matter more than you think. And for the record: "I'm just being honest" is not the same as being kind. Don’t let social media drama ruin your holidays—hit subscribe and learn how to post with purpose, protect your peace, and keep your corner of the internet a little warmer this season. Follow the show, share it with a friend who loves the holidays, and leave a review to help others find us!Click here for this episode’s blog post with links to sources and even more content.Stay connected: Subscribe to our newsletter!Note: This is a re-aired episode with timeless advice about holiday social media etiquette. The 8 rules still apply, and honestly, we all need the reminder every year. — Who Should Listen This episode is for anyone who's ever hovered over "post" wondering if they should, scrolled through their feed feeling worse instead of better, or knows someone** who needs a friendly reminder about what to share (and what to keep offline) during the holidays. — What You Get In This Episode 8 clear categories of posts to avoid this holiday season (and the real-world ripple effects of each)Why gift bragging and public family feuds do more damage than you thinkHow algorithms reward outrage—and why that matters for your mental healthThe invitation trap that leads to hurt feelings (and how to avoid it)Consent and privacy rules for kids' photos—what the law expects and practical alternativesSelf-care practices that keep you calm online: stretch breaks, rituals, and joyful traditions— Bios Caitlin brings her signature blend of humor and practical advice to help overwhelmed moms navigate the challenges of adulting—including not letting social media turn the holidays into a dumpster fire. With Jenny, who brings thoughtful perspectives on protecting your peace while staying connected. — Sources & Mentions 10 Things You Should Never Post on Social Media During the Holidays | Reader’s DigestDo's and Don'ts of Holiday Social Media Posting | Social Stamina7 Things to Avoid Posting on Facebook during the Holidays That You Will Regret Later | AllWomensTalk11 Photos You Should Never, Ever Post on Social Media | The HealthyEnjoyed this episode? Follow the show, share it with a friend who loves the holidays, and leave a rev The best support is a rating and a share. Love,CK & GK Support the show View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on - Instagram - Facebook - TikTok Thanks, y'all!

    41 min
  5. 18 Thanksgiving Fun Facts You'll Actually Want to Share

    NOV 25

    18 Thanksgiving Fun Facts You'll Actually Want to Share

    Send us a Text! Thanksgiving is full of stories we think we know—but how much is actually true? Was the first Thanksgiving really just Pilgrims and turkey? Why do we pardon turkeys? And why do plumbers dread Black Friday more than any other day of the year? We're trading myths for facts and turning Thanksgiving trivia into stories you'll actually want to share at the table this year. Don’t repeat Thanksgiving myths—hit subscribe and get the real stories, wild facts, and table-ready trivia that'll make you the most interesting person at dinner. Note: This is a re-aired episode packed with Thanksgiving trivia and practical tips that never get old. Perfect listening while you're prepping, cooking, or hiding from family in the kitchen. Click here for this episode’s blog post with links to sources and even more content.Stay connected: Subscribe to our newsletter!— Who Should Listen This episode is for anyone who loves a good origin story, wants conversation starters that aren't about politics, and needs something entertaining to listen to while prepping for the holiday chaos. — What You Get In This Episode The real story of the 1621 feast (shocker: it wasn't what you learned in elementary school)Presidential turkey drama involving a raccoon, pardons, and political theaterThe woman behind making Thanksgiving official (and her other famous work)Mind-blowing modern stats: millions of turkeys, pies, and jaw-dropping calorie countsWhy plumbers consider Black Friday their Super BowlKitchen wisdom that'll save your disposal and your sanityPlus more table-ready trivia that'll make you the most interesting person at dinner— Bios Caitlin brings her signature blend of humor and practical advice to help overwhelmed moms navigate the challenges of adulting—including becoming the trivia queen of Thanksgiving dinner. With Jenny, who brings curiosity, laughs, and a willingness to admit when she guesses wrong. — Sources & Mentions 50 Thanksgiving Trivia Questions and Answers to Impress All of Your Dinner GuestsSarah Josepha Hale67 Thanksgiving trivia questions and answers to share at dinnerIf you love this episode, leave us a review, give us stars, or subscribe to our Patreon!Find us on social media @CKandGKPodcast The best support is a rating and a share. Love,CK & GK Support the show View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on - Instagram - Facebook - TikTok Thanks, y'all!

    42 min
  6. 7 Simple Activities To Keep Your Family Happy and Busy On Turkey Day (Re-release)

    NOV 18

    7 Simple Activities To Keep Your Family Happy and Busy On Turkey Day (Re-release)

    Send us a Text! Holiday hosting shouldn't feel like a traffic jam in your kitchen with chaos everywhere and you questioning all your life choices. You want everyone to have fun, make memories, and stay out of your way while you get the meal on the table. We're sharing 7 low-prep, high-joy Thanksgiving activities that keep everyone engaged so you can actually enjoy the day instead of just surviving it. Stop letting Thanksgiving chaos steal your joy—hit subscribe and get easy activities that create connection without adding to your hosting stress. Note: This is a re-aired episode with timeless Thanksgiving hosting tips. These activities work whether you're hosting 5 people or 25, and none of them require Pinterest-level planning. Click here for this episode’s blog post with links to sources and even more content.Stay connected: Subscribe to our newsletter!— Who Should Listen This episode is for anyone hosting Thanksgiving who wants their guests entertained and connected (without needing a degree in event planning or losing their minds in the process). — What You Get In This Episode Two gratitude activities that work for shy guests and chatty ones alike (one involves candy, one becomes a keepsake)Quick icebreakers that get teens, grandparents, and new partners laughing together in minutesA clever setup trick that keeps people bonding without awkward small talk pressureMovement ideas that give everyone fresh air and reset energy between coursesThe seating strategy that ditches the kids' table and actually works betterA tradition you can start this year that becomes a living record of everyone who's shared your tableBonus hosting hacks: cozy extras and a quick fix for your garbage disposal that'll save your sanity— Bios Caitlin brings her signature blend of humor and practical advice to help overwhelmed moms navigate the challenges of hosting—including Thanksgiving dinners that don't end in tears (yours or theirs). With Jenny, who brings real talk about keeping your sanity while creating memories. — Sources & Mentions Check out the PureWow article on Thanksgiving activities by Emma Singer and Stephanie SengweGet the printable M&M Gratitude Game: Visit the blog post for this episode and click on the link to access the printables.Visit the blog post for more activities and the book that Jenny mentioned!Donations ShatterproofFirst Nations Institute The best support is a rating and a share. Love,CK & GK Support the show View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on - Instagram - Facebook - TikTok Thanks, y'all!

    47 min
  7. Surviving Political Talk at Holiday Gatherings: 11 Scripts That Work (Re-release)

    NOV 11

    Surviving Political Talk at Holiday Gatherings: 11 Scripts That Work (Re-release)

    Send us a Text! The holidays are nearly here, which means you're about to sit across from relatives with very different political views. Fun, right? Whether it's Uncle Bob bringing up the recent election or your cousin sharing hot takes nobody asked for, navigating political conversations at family gatherings is exhausting. We're sharing practical scripts, gentle redirects, and exit strategies that protect your peace without ruining dinner. Stop dreading family gatherings because of politics—hit subscribe and get practical scripts and boundary-setting strategies that actually work (without causing drama). Click here for this episode’s blog post with links to sources and even more content.Stay connected: Subscribe to our newsletter!— Who Should Listen This episode is for anyone heading into the holidays with family members who have very different political views, and moms trying to keep the peace while protecting their mental health and teaching their kids healthy boundaries. — What You Get In This Episode How to state boundaries before the gathering even startsThe "tell me more" technique for finding empathy (even when it's hard)Scripts for asking permission to share your view without starting a fightHow to reframe conversations toward shared goals instead of divisive politicsDefusing tactics: humor, neutral topics, and graceful subject changesPlanning exit strategies and partner rescue signals for when things get heated— Bios Caitlin brings her signature blend of humor and practical advice to help overwhelmed moms navigate the challenges of adulting—including surviving politically charged family gatherings without losing your mind. With Jenny, who brings real talk and solidarity to the chaos of modern motherhood. — Sources & Mentions For links to resources mentioned in this episode, head to ckandgkpodcast.com/blogAn article for TIME by Angela HauptThis Instagram post from Jackie Santillan @kindminds_smartheartsFind us on social media @CKandGKPodcastNote: This is a re-aired episode from last year that's incredibly relevant for this holiday season. The strategies and scripts still work, and honestly, we all need the reminder. Important reminder from this episode: Schedule your mammogram if you're due. Caitlin had a follow-up win and wants you to take care of yourself, too. The best support is a rating and a share. Love,CK & GK Support the show View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on - Instagram - Facebook - TikTok Thanks, y'all!

    30 min
  8. Holiday Tipping Made Simple: A Step-By-Step Guide To Doing It Right (Re-release)

    NOV 4

    Holiday Tipping Made Simple: A Step-By-Step Guide To Doing It Right (Re-release)

    Send us a Text! Guess what? It’s tipping season once again. The holidays bring out this weird etiquette stress where you're supposed to know exactly who gets what—your mail carrier, hairstylist, dog walker, that random person who delivers your groceries. We're breaking down holiday tipping so you can show gratitude without the guilt or confusion (or going broke in the process). Stop stressing about holiday tipping etiquette—hit subscribe and learn who to tip, how much to give, and budget-friendly ways to show appreciation without breaking the bank. *Note: This is a re-aired episode from last year that's just as relevant for this holiday season. The etiquette and budget tips still apply! Click here for this episode’s blog post.Stay connected: Subscribe to our newsletter!— Who Should Listen This episode is for regular people who don't have personal butlers or live-in elves, and anyone trying to navigate holiday gratitude without spiraling into financial panic or etiquette anxiety. — What You Get In This Episode How to budget wisely for holiday tipping without feeling like ScroogeSmart strategies for showing appreciation when funds are tight (because we're all tight right now)Who actually expects a holiday tip (and who doesn't)How much to give different service providers—from mail carriers to hairstylistsMaster the art of holiday tipping and avoid the awkward "wait, should I have tipped them?" moments— Bios Caitlin brings her signature blend of humor and practical advice to help overwhelmed moms navigate the challenges of adulting—including the minefield of holiday tipping etiquette. She's here to make this less stressful and more manageable. — Sources & Mentions The no-stress guide to holiday tipping | FidelityHoliday Tipping 2023: Your Guide to Who, When, and, of Course, How Much | WSJEveryone You Should Remember to Tip Over the Holidays (and How Much to Give) | Real Simple The best support is a rating and a share. Love,CK & GK Support the show View our website at ckandgkpodcast.com. Find us on social media @ckandgkpodcast on - Instagram - Facebook - TikTok Thanks, y'all!

    48 min
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About

Hey there! We’re Caitlin and Jenny (she/her). We host How to Be a Grownup: A Humorous Guide for Moms, with CK & GK, AKA the CK & GK Podcast. Our show is dedicated to any mom who's ever looked around and thought, "I need an adultier-adult than me to handle this."We're moms just like you, navigating the everyday chaos and unexpected surprises. We bring a relatable and humorous perspective to parenting, drawing on our own experiences and sharing honest, practical advice you can actually use in your own life.We aim to create a supportive and entertaining space where listeners can learn, laugh, and connect with other adults who are just trying to figure it all out. By offering relatable stories, expert advice, and a healthy dose of humor, we hope to empower listeners to embrace the ups and downs of adulthood with confidence and a positive attitude.___Caitlin and Jenny are based in Austin, Texas. They're both married to cool people and parents to cool kids. Caitlin is a former middle school teacher and Jenny is a middle school assistant principal. They're besties who love to laugh. 

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