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. 6h ago

    Mean Girls, Mean Moms and Female Friendships With Dr. Noelle Santorelli Ep. 36

    Dr. Noelle Santorelli – Mean Girls, Mean Moms & Female Friendships Have you ever thought, “Wait…aren’t we too old for this?” The truth is, the “mean girl” phenomenon doesn’t necessarily end when we leave middle school. Exclusion, cliques, gossip, competition, and complicated friendships can follow us well into adulthood—and motherhood can sometimes bring an entirely new layer to these dynamics. In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin Weinrich sits down with Dr. Noelle Santorelli, a therapist, mom, and expert in women’s relationships and family dynamics, to talk about the complicated world of female friendships. Why can being left out still hurt so much as an adult? Why do mean-girl behaviors continue into motherhood? And how do we navigate difficult friendships while making sure we aren't contributing to the very behavior we dislike? Kristin and Noelle talk honestly about: What “mean girl” behavior looks like—and why it doesn't necessarily disappear with age Why exclusion can be so painful, even as adults The role insecurity, comparison, and competition can play in friendships How to handle gossip, cliques, and feeling left out Knowing when to address a difficult friendship and when it's healthier to walk away Why friendship breakups can feel just as painful as romantic breakups How to know when a friendship is worth repairing—and when it's okay to outgrow one Helping our children navigate friendship drama, exclusion, and bullying What to do when your child is being excluded How social media has changed friendships for both kids and adults Setting healthy boundaries in our own relationships The difference between healthy conflict and unhealthy behavior Noelle also shares her friendship red flags and green flags, along with advice every mom can use when it comes to helping her children—and herself—build healthier, kinder relationships. Because friendships should add to our lives, not leave us constantly questioning where we stand. Follow Dr. Noelle Santorelli: Instagram & Facebook: @drnoellesantorelli Website: www.drnoellesantorelli.com Mentioned in the Episode  Ashley Tisdale article: https://www.nbcnews.com/pop-culture/pop-culture-news/ashley-tisdale-reveals-left-toxic-mom-group-rcna252607 (From Chat GPT) "Oreo Gate” is the viral Instagram mom-drama/storytime series that’s blowing up right now in August 2026. It’s not actually about the Oreo cookie itself—it’s about a school-parent WhatsApp group and an increasingly ridiculous dispute involving Oreos. 😂 The story is being told in a series of Instagram reels by @ashleighjamz, and people are following along like it’s a TV show. There are now multiple parts, with commenters referring to it as “Oreo-gate” and speculating about the people involved.  🍪 So what happened? The basic setup is a back-to-school situation involving moms, kids, a school WhatsApp chat, and Oreos. One mom—referred to as Michelle in the story—apparently takes issue with something involving Oreos and the situation spirals into a much bigger interpersonal drama. What makes it so entertaining is that it has all the ingredients of classic “mean moms” drama:  A school-parent group chat  Moms taking sides  A seemingly tiny issue becoming a HUGE issue  Passive-aggressive messages  Friendship dynamics  Kids getting caught in the middle  People wondering, “Are you seriously this upset about Oreos?” 😂 The creator has been releasing it in multiple parts, and the latest posts are still generating thousands of comments. One recent update was labeled Part 5, with another post referencing Part 7.  And interestingly, people are already debating whether the story is completely real or partly exaggerated/created for social media.  Kim Kardashians's Baseball Moms show Team Moms: https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/high-school/baseball/2026/08/20/kim-kardashian-to-produce-teen-moms-baseball-on-paramount/91380696007/ Picky Pads on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=picky+pad&crid=AMULAYRYMZIJ&sprefix=picky+pad%2Caps%2C184&ref=nb_sb_noss_1 And if you enjoyed this episode, please follow MomsWork Podcast, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Find MomsWork Podcast on Instagram and Facebook at @MomsWorkPodcast. Thanks for listening—and remember: healthy friendships are built on kindness, respect, boundaries, and authenticity.

  2. Aug 18

    The Sandwich Generation: Raising Kids While Caring for Aging Parents Ep. 35

    MomsWork Podcast Show Notes: The Sandwich Generation with Andrea Davis Episode Summary What happens when you're raising children while also caring for aging parents? More and more families are finding themselves in this stage of life known as the Sandwich Generation—caught between the demands of parenting and the responsibilities that come with supporting older loved ones. In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with Andrea Davis, a wife, mom of two, and Main Line realtor, to discuss what it really looks like to care for multiple generations at the same time. Andrea shares her family's personal journey, the emotional challenges that come with balancing everyone's needs, and the unexpected gifts that can emerge during this season of life. Together, Kristin and Andrea explore the complicated emotions many caregivers experience, including guilt, gratitude, sadness, worry, and joy. They also discuss the importance of preserving family stories, creating meaningful memories, and modeling compassion for the next generation. Whether you're currently caring for aging parents, anticipate doing so in the future, or simply want to better understand this chapter of life, this conversation offers reassurance, perspective, and a reminder that you're not alone. In This Episode, We Discuss: What it means to be part of the Sandwich Generation Balancing the needs of children and aging parents The emotional weight of caring for two generations at once How caregiving changes family relationships The lessons children learn by watching adults care for their grandparents Important conversations families should have before a crisis occurs Finding gratitude and joy in an often-challenging season About Andrea Davis Andrea Davis is a Main Line realtor known for seeing potential where others don't. After renovating four homes and taking on a fifth project with her husband, Dan, she's built a career around transforming overlooked properties into something special. Before entering real estate, Andrea worked in art conservation at Harvard University Libraries and spent more than a decade in public health, helping protect firefighters and paramedics. Today, her personal and professional experiences give her a unique perspective on family, caregiving, and navigating life's transitions. Mentioned in the Episode:  Sandwich, a novel: https://www.amazon.com/Sandwich-Novel-Catherine-Newman/dp/0063345161  Connect with Andrea: Instagram: @mainline_homebody Website (Compass Realty, Andrea's Page): https://www.compass.com/agents/andrea-davis/ Enjoying MomsWork Podcast? Please subscribe, rate, and review MomsWork Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Your support helps more families discover these important conversations. You can also follow @MomsWorkPodcast on social media and subscribe on YouTube so you never miss an episode. Next Up: Season 2 begins September 1!

  3. Aug 11

    The Truth About Postpartum: What Every Mom Needs to Hear with Brittany Harris Ep. 34

    Bringing home a new baby is often portrayed as one of life's happiest moments—but what happens after the visitors leave, the meals stop coming, and the reality of postpartum sets in? In this episode of the MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with Brittany Harris—wife, mom of five, and nurse practitioner—to have the honest conversation every parent needs to hear. Drawing from both her professional experience caring for women during the postpartum period and her own journey through motherhood, Brittany shares practical advice, reassurance, and hope for families navigating one of life's biggest transitions. Together, they discuss what postpartum really looks like beyond the six-week checkup, including the physical recovery, emotional ups and downs, and mental health challenges that so many new moms experience—but few feel comfortable talking about. They cover topics including: What the postpartum period really is—and why it lasts much longer than many people realizeThe difference between the "baby blues," postpartum depression, and postpartum anxietyIntrusive thoughts: why they're more common than you think and when to seek helpPostpartum rage and the emotional overload many moms experienceThe realities of breastfeeding, hormones, weight changes, and body imagePhysical recovery after birth, sleep deprivation, nutrition, hydration, and returning to exerciseHow spouses, partners, grandparents, and friends can truly support a new momWarning signs that it's time to reach out to a healthcare providerWhy therapy, medication, support groups, and asking for help are signs of strength—not failureWhether you're expecting your first baby, in the middle of postpartum recovery, or supporting someone who recently welcomed a child, this conversation is filled with compassion, expert guidance, and practical takeaways that every family can benefit from. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend or loved one who could use the reminder that caring for moms is just as important as caring for babies. Connect with MomsWork Podcast: 📱 Instagram & Facebook: @MomsWorkPodcast 🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Connect with Brittany Harris @hernewchapterhealth on Instagram Mentioned in the podcast Atomic Habits book by James Clear: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299  Bilateral Music Stimulation Station (many to choose from on youtube): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KqMGI2WO2O0

  4. Aug 4

    From Layoff to Leap: Building a Business While Raising Two Babies One Year Apart with Abbie O'Brien (The Branding Den)- Ep 33

    From Layoff to Leap: Building a Business While Raising Two Babies One Year Apart with Abbie O'BrienSometimes life's biggest setbacks become the very thing that launches us into something even better. This week on MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with Abbie O'Brien—wife, mom of two daughters born just 12 months and three weeks apart, founder of The Branding Den, former Creative Director, and part-time yoga instructor. After spending nearly a decade building a successful career in the franchising industry, Abbie's world changed overnight when she was unexpectedly laid off during the pandemic while navigating new motherhood. Instead of returning to the corporate world, she took a leap of faith, trusted her instincts, and built her own branding and marketing agency from the ground up. In this inspiring conversation, Abbie shares the realities of entrepreneurship, the power of building authentic relationships, how AI is changing the marketing landscape, and what it really takes to create a memorable brand. She also opens up about motherhood, including the unique experience of raising two daughters born just over a year apart, learning to ask for help, and embracing the beautiful chaos of parenting little ones so close in age. Whether you're dreaming of starting your own business, navigating an unexpected career change, or simply trying to balance work and family, Abbie's story is filled with encouragement, practical advice, and the reminder that sometimes our greatest opportunities come disguised as setbacks. In This Episode, We Discuss: How an unexpected layoff during the pandemic changed the course of Abbie's careerThe story behind founding The Branding DenWhat makes a brand memorable beyond having a beautiful logoCommon branding and marketing mistakes businesses makeWhy networking and relationships are essential for business growthHow AI is transforming branding, marketing, and entrepreneurshipCurrent marketing trends every business owner should knowRaising two daughters born just 12 months and three weeks apartThe challenges—and unexpected joys—of having children so close in ageLearning to accept help and lean on a support systemBalancing business ownership, motherhood, and self-careQuick-fire questions and parenting wisdomAbbie's journey is a powerful reminder that resilience, creativity, and a willingness to take a chance on yourself can lead to incredible opportunities. Her story proves that while life doesn't always go according to plan, it often leads us exactly where we're meant to be. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review MomsWork Podcast wherever you listen. Share this episode with a parent, entrepreneur, or friend who could use a little encouragement today. Connect with MomsWork Podcast: Instagram: @MomsWorkPodcast Facebook: MomsWork Podcast YouTube: @MomsWorkPodcast Apple Podcasts: MomsWork Podcast Mentioned in the show:  The Branding Den: https://www.thebrandingden.com/ Facebook: The Branding Den Instagram: @thebrandingden Jenna Bush Hager's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/open-book-with-jenna/id1707218732 The Rabbit Hole Conshocken:  https://therabbitholeconshy.com/

  5. Jul 28

    The Ultimate Water Day Guide: Safety, Snacks & Summer Fun with Erica Kowal of Big Blue Swim School Ep. 32

    Summer is here, and that means family days at the pool, beach, lake, and splash pad! But while water creates some of our favorite memories, it also comes with an important responsibility—keeping our kids safe. This week on MomsWork, Kristin sits down with Erica Kowal, wife, mom, and owner of Big Blue Swim School in Paoli, Pennsylvania, for a conversation every parent should hear. Erica shares why learning to swim is one of the most important life skills a child can have, practical tips for drowning prevention, and how parents can help children build confidence in and around the water. Beyond swim safety, Kristin and Erica dive into everything that makes summer water days easier and more enjoyable—from must-have beach and pool gear to favorite snacks, packing hacks, games, and the little things that help families spend less time stressing and more time making memories. Whether your family spends weekends by the pool, vacations at the beach, or simply loves soaking up the summer sun, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you enjoy every splash safely. In this episode, you'll learn: Why swim lessons are a life-saving investmentEssential water safety and drowning prevention tips every parent should knowHow to help nervous children become more confident swimmersSimple ways to practice swim skills outside of lessonsErica's favorite pool and beach essentialsEasy snacks, games, and organization hacks for water daysHow to create meaningful summer memories without chasing perfectionWhether you're packing for your next beach vacation or heading to your neighborhood pool, this episode is full of helpful ideas to make your family's summer safer, simpler, and more fun. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another parent who could use these tips. And don't forget to follow MomsWork Podcast on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for more conversations that support parents through every stage of work and family life. Mentioned in the show: Instagram  @ericakowal @bigblueswim_paoli @bigblueswim_cherryhill @bigblueswim_fairlesshills @bigblueswim_springfielddelco Facebook @bigblueswimschoolpaoli @bigblueswimschoolfairlesshills @bigblueswimschoolcherryhill @bigblueswimschoolspringfielddelco Shopping Links Swimsuits for moms: https://kiavaclothing.com Sunglasses: https://goodr.com Hanna Andersson bathing suits: https://www.hannaandersson.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorB_SBEU8HeCgWMlKmYvMATklvasS02Ivr5p5u-pwC6iFB5fx3r Costa Rica Rick: https://montauksurfandsports.com/products/surfer-dudes-costa-rica-rick?srsltid=AfmBOoqANr3lUA0t48F7qsEuGzkqkHfYGGPW3RhuS9_8aOwrVJJMRZgY  Dock and BayTowels: https://us.dockandbay.com/ Native Shoes- https://www.nativeshoes.com/ Sun Bum Sunscreen: https://www.sunbum.com/  Trader Joe's Face Sunscreen: https://www.traderjoes.com/home/products/pdp/daily-facial-sunscreen-spf-40-073568

  6. Jul 21

    More Than Melissa & Doug Toys: A Conversation with Melissa Bernstein, Mom of Six, Business Woman, Toy Maker Ep 31

    More Than Melissa & Doug Toys: A Conversation with Melissa Bernstein On this episode of MomsWork, Kristin sits down with Melissa Bernstein, co-founder of the beloved children’s toy company Melissa & Doug, mom of six, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Lifelines. For generations of families, Melissa & Doug toys have encouraged creativity, imagination, and meaningful hands-on play. Melissa shares the story behind starting the company with her husband, Doug, in the late 1980s, the risks they took in the early days, and how they built a brand that became a treasured part of childhood for so many families. Melissa also opens up about the realities behind the success story. While raising six children and growing a major business, she was navigating internal struggles that were not always visible from the outside. She shares her experience with existential depression, what she wishes more people understood about quiet mental-health struggles, and why asking for help and finding connection can be so important. Kristin and Melissa also talk about Lifelines, Melissa’s newer company focused on helping people explore purpose, hope, emotional well-being, and meaningful connection. This conversation is a thoughtful reminder that success and struggle can exist at the same time—and that a meaningful life is about much more than what others can see from the outside. In this episode, Kristin and Melissa discuss: The early days of building Melissa & DougRaising six children while growing a businessWhy imaginative, open-ended play still mattersThe values that helped shape the Melissa & Doug brandNavigating motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal challengesMelissa’s experience with existential depressionThe importance of talking openly about mental healthThe inspiration behind Lifelines and Melissa’s work todayWhat success and purpose look like in this season of lifeMentioned in the episode:  Lifelines, Melissa and Doug's newest company: Lifelines Melissa's Memoir: Lifelines by Melissa Bernstein Jalen Brunson : https://www.espn.com/nba/player/_/id/3934672/jalen-brunson Emmy Van Deurzen: https://www.emmyvandeurzen.com/ Good Life Project with Jonathan Fields: https://www.goodlifeproject.com/podcast/  Follow MomsWork Podcast on Instagram and Facebook for more conversations about parenting, work, family, and the many roles we hold every day.

  7. Jul 7

    Raising Grounded Girls: Fatherhood, Values, and Staying Connected (Even When You’re Away) with Ash Rajan Ep 30

    Raising Grounded Girls: Fatherhood, Family Values & Staying Connected with Ashwin RajanWhat does it take to raise kind, confident, grounded daughters in today's world? In this episode of MomsWork Podcast, Kristin sits down with filmmaker, producer, husband, and father of two middle school girls, Ash Rajan, for an honest conversation about fatherhood, family values, and staying connected—even when work takes you away from home. Ash shares how he and his wife intentionally raise daughters who are humble, hardworking, and deeply connected to their family, culture, and traditions. Together, they discuss the unique challenges of parenting during the middle school years, the importance of modeling values through everyday actions, and how meaningful relationships can thrive despite demanding careers and frequent travel. Whether you're raising daughters, navigating busy family schedules, or simply hoping to build stronger connections at home, this conversation is full of thoughtful reminders that the little moments matter most. In this episode, we discuss: Raising grounded, kind, and confident girlsHelping children stay connected to family, culture, and traditionsParenting through the middle school yearsModeling humility, gratitude, and a strong work ethicBalancing a demanding career with family lifeStaying emotionally connected while traveling for workThe everyday moments that shape lifelong relationshipsWhat Ash hopes his daughters will carry into adulthoodAshwin Rajan's Bio: Ashwin Rajan Bio  Remain the Movie (February 2027): Remain the Movie  M. Night Shyamalan: M. Night Shymalan  Bougie Hippie: Bougie Hippie  If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review MomsWork Podcast wherever you listen. Your support helps more moms and dads discover these meaningful conversations. You can also connect with MomsWork Podcast on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for episode clips, parenting conversations, and updates on upcoming guests.

  8. Jun 30

    From Biology to Buttercream: Following your Passion (and Keeping Your Kids Busy This Summer) with Lynn April @freshaprilflours Ep 29

    MomsWork Podcast Episode 29From Biology to Buttercream with Lynn April of Fresh April Flours Sometimes the path you think you're meant to take isn't the one you stay on. This week on MomsWork, Kristin is joined by Lynn April, the creator behind Fresh April Flours. A trained biologist turned self-taught baker, cookbook author, personal trainer, and entrepreneur, Lynn shares how a simple cake decorating class sparked an entirely new career. Together, Kristin and Lynn talk about what it takes to pivot professionally, build a business from scratch, and trust yourself enough to follow a passion—even when it looks completely different from the plan. They also dive into a topic every parent is thinking about this time of year: summer break. From camps and day trips to library programs, kitchen projects, and balancing work while the kids are home, they share practical ideas for making the most of the season without feeling like you have to do it all. In this episode, we discuss: Lynn's journey from biology to bakingBuilding the Fresh April Flours brandFinding the confidence to make a major career changeLessons learned from turning a hobby into a businessKeeping kids busy during summer breakBalancing work and family when routines changeFavorite summer traditions, meals, and family funWhether you're dreaming of a career change, looking for summer inspiration, or simply trying to make these long days a little easier, this episode is full of encouragement and practical ideas for parents. Connect with Lynn April Website: https://freshaprilflours.com/  Instagram: @freshaprilfloursLinks to things mentioned in the episode Travel though France with Lynn: Travel Through France with LynnCreek Splashing at Shaw's Bridge Park: Shaw's Bridge ParkThe Biscuit Lady: Biscuits!Chester County Library System: Libraries galore!Ina Garten:  Barefoot ContessaBe My Guest with Ina Garten on The Food Network: TV ShowBe Ready When the Luck Happens by Ina Garten: Read the Book!If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to follow, rate, and review MomsWork. Your support helps more parents discover the show, and we'd love it if you'd share this episode with a friend who's navigating work, family, or a new season of life.

4.9
out of 5
20 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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