Honest Mom Talk

Molly Ryden
  • 5.0 (1)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Honest Mom Talk is the unfiltered podcast for moms who are tired of pretending everything’s fine and ready to have real conversations about motherhood, mental health, and making space for themselves. Hosted by Molly and Jillian, this show dives deep into the messy realities of modern motherhood—burnout, mom rage, mental load, identity loss, setting boundaries, and the constant battle between caring for your kids and caring for yourself. Each episode offers honest stories, expert insights, and practical tools to help you feel seen, supported, and more in control of your own motherhood journey. Whether you're drowning in mom guilt, touched out by bedtime, or wondering if you're the only one struggling—you’re not alone here. This is the space where moms get real. Because your needs matter. Your voice matters. And you still matter—beyond the role of "mom." New episodes every week. Let’s talk about the hard stuff—together.

  1. 3D AGO

    Let's Get Honest About: Putting Yourself in Time-Out!

    This episode explores the importance of moms taking timeouts for themselves, similar to how we discipline kids. It offers practical tips for self-regulation, overcoming guilt, and building support systems to prioritize mental health in motherhood. key topics Mom timeouts as a self-care strategyRecognizing signs of overwhelm and overstimulationPractical methods for calming down quicklyOvercoming guilt around taking breaksThe importance of modeling self-care for childrentakeaways Mom timeouts are a valid and effective way to manage stress.Recognizing early signs of overwhelm can prevent escalation.Simple techniques like cold water or sour candy can reset your nervous system.Communicating needs for space helps children learn self-regulation.Asking for help and setting boundaries is essential for mental health.Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

    37 min

  2. APR 3 ·  BONUS

    BONUS** Let's Get Honest About: Easter

    In this episode, Molly and Jillian dive into the realities of Easter — from its over-commercialization to the chaos of egg hunts, family traditions, and the pressure to keep up. They share funny and honest stories about holiday expectations, the evolution of traditions, and how to simplify this often overwhelming day to make it truly enjoyable. Key Topics: The origins and commercialization of the Easter BunnyFamily traditions vs. modern parenting realitiesThe chaos and competitiveness of community egg huntsSimplifying holiday celebrations: store-bought eggs and minimal effortThe impact of societal and social media pressure on holiday aestheticsHow to set boundaries around gifts, expectations, and traditionsThe humorous side of holiday mishaps and misadventuresThe shift from formal holiday rituals to relaxed, authentic momentsNavigating cultural and religious aspects of Easter in diverse families Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

    37 min

  3. APR 1

    Let's Get Honest About: Parenting While People Pleasing

    In this episode, Molly and Jillian explore how deep-rooted patterns like people pleasing influence our approaches to parenting and holiday celebrations. They share personal stories, societal observations, and practical tips for breaking free from these cycles to create healthier relationships with ourselves, our children, and family traditions.  Slay Like a Mother by Katherine Winsch Book: The Conscious Parent by Shefali Tsabary  Therapy resources: Psychology Today   Connect with Molly & Jillian:   Instagram  Email  Note: This episode emphasizes the importance of recognizing long-standing patterns like people pleasing and actively choosing healthier, more authentic ways to engage with our families and traditions. Remember, change takes time and self-compassion—you're doing great! Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

    45 min

  4. MAR 25

    Let's Get Honest About: Sitting In Your Car Alone

    In this episode, Molly and Jillian explore the complex realities of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of spending quality time by yourself by doing things like sitting in the care on your own!. They share personal stories and practical tips for moms to recharge. Key Topics Covered: The psychological benefits of taking time alone, especially during car ridesThe impact of societal stereotypes and how to normalize self-carePractical tips for creating personal routines that honor your mental healthThe significance of teaching kids about boundaries and self-regulation through modelingHow to handle guilt associated with taking space and focusing on self-careThe role of social media in intensifying holiday pressures and consumer culture Resources & Links: Honest Mom Talk InstagramEmail UsMel Robbins: The 5 Second RuleThe Joneses Movie (2009) Connect with the Hosts: Molly - InstagramJillian - InstagramOptional: Feel inspired to create your own traditions and prioritize your mental health. Remember, moms deserve space and breaks—don’t let guilt steer your self-care. Share your favorite mom decompression strategies with us! Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

    42 min

  5. MAR 20

    Let's Get Honest About: When the Kids are sick!

    In this episode of Honest Mom Talk, Molly and Jillian get real about what happens when kids are sick—how it impacts routines, mental health, and the support system we rely on. They share raw experiences, practical systems, and the importance of planning to maintain sanity and self-care amidst the chaos. Main Topics Covered: The emotional and logistical chaos when children fall illEstablishing emergency plans, bags, and routines for sick daysThe biological and psychological reasons moms are wired to prioritize children’s needsThe impact of illness on work, relationships, and self-careThe importance of communication, support systems, and setting boundariesReal talk about how societal expectations and gender roles influence who handles the chaosPractical tips for organizing medication, puke bags, and emergency suppliesThe significance of mental health breaks, micro self-care, and redefining successIn this episode: How kids' sickness can trigger melt-downs and overwhelm even the most organized momsCreating “idiot-proof” systems like dedicated sick bags, medication charts, and emergency suppliesThe biological basis for moms’ instinct to care for sick childrenChallenges of working from home with kids and the misconception of “easy” remote workThe role of societal and gendered expectations in default parenting rolesThe importance of having pre-planned conversations about support and routines during illnessTips for preserving mental health by taking intentional breaks, even during chaosHow to build systems that support mom resilience and minimize burnoutTimestamps: 00:00 - The chaos and overwhelm of children’s sick days 02:00 - Systems to manage medication and emergency supplies 04:30 - Biological reasons moms are wired to care more intensely when children are sick 07:00 - Challenges of working from home while kids are ill 10:00 - Societal expectations around default parenting roles 13:00 - Support systems and creating support plans before illness strikes 16:00 - The importance of mental health breaks and micro self-care 20:00 - Organizational strategies for handling sick supplies and routines 23:00 - The significance of communication with partners and support networks 27:00 - Redefining success and expectations in motherhood during crises Resources & Links: (these are affiliate links) Bluey – Boring. Things are ImportantPuke Bags from AmazonFirst Aid SuppliesOrganized Medical and Emergency KitsConnect with Molly & Jillian: Instagram: honestmomtalkpodEmail: info@honestmomtalk.comFinal Note: Remember, no mother is perfect, and systems are meant to support, not complicate. Sharing tips, setting boundaries, and building a reliable network are key to surviving—and thriving—through those sick days. You're doing enough simply by showing up. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

    48 min

  6. MAR 11

    Let's Get Honest About: When Mom's Sick

    In this episode of Honest Mom Talk, Molly and Jillian dive into the messy, rarely discussed reality of what happens when moms get sick. From fevers and stomach bugs to mental exhaustion and burnout, mothers are often expected to continue parenting, caregiving, and managing households without pause—even when their own health needs attention. Through honest conversation and personal stories, Molly and Jillian unpack the societal expectations placed on mothers, the invisible mental load of caregiving, and why moms so often feel guilty for resting or asking for help. The hosts explore how motherhood culture often glorifies pushing through illness instead of prioritizing recovery, and how that mindset contributes to mom burnout, chronic stress, and emotional exhaustion. Listeners will hear real-life examples of how illness affects the entire household dynamic—from disrupted routines and sick kids to partners stepping in (or sometimes not). Molly and Jillian also discuss the importance of building strong support systems, setting boundaries, and normalizing rest and self-care for moms. This episode offers both validation and practical guidance for mothers who are trying to balance parenting responsibilities, personal health, and the pressure to keep everything together. If you’ve ever tried to parent while sick, felt guilty for needing rest, or wondered why moms aren’t “allowed” to be sick, this conversation will resonate. In This Episode We Discuss The reality of being a sick mom and why it feels so different from anyone else being sickThe invisible labor and mental load mothers carry when managing a householdWhy society expects moms to keep going even when they’re physically or mentally exhaustedThe emotional toll of mom guilt and burnoutHow illness affects family routines and caregiving dynamicsWhy building a support network for moms matters more than we thinkPractical ways to ask for help and prioritize self-care during sicknessKey Takeaways for Moms Mothers deserve rest, recovery, and care just like anyone else.Asking for help is not weakness—it’s a necessary part of sustainable parenting.Prioritizing your health benefits not just you, but your entire family.Building supportive partnerships and community makes navigating illness easier.About Honest Mom Talk Honest Mom Talk is a podcast hosted by Molly Ryden and Jillian that explores the real, unfiltered experience of modern motherhood. Each episode tackles the mental load, emotional challenges, societal pressures, and everyday realities that moms face—while offering empathy, humor, and practical strategies for navigating it all. Connect With Us Follow Honest Mom Talk for more conversations about motherhood, mental health, boundaries, and reclaiming your identity beyond the role of mom. Subscribe, rate, and review the show to help more moms find these conversations. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

    54 min

  7. MAR 4

    It Takes Two: Welcome the New Honest Mom Cohost Jillian!!

    In this episode of Honest Mom Talk, hosts Molly and Jillian dive into the realities of motherhood, discussing mental health, community, and the importance of honest conversations among moms. They share personal anecdotes, explore the challenges of parenting, and emphasize the need for support and understanding in a world where social media often showcases only the highlights. The episode sets the stage for future discussions on various topics relevant to mothers, creating a safe space for open dialogue. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

    27 min

  8. FEB 20 ·  BONUS

    Honestly, we don't DO Valentines

    In this Season 7 preview episode, Molly and Jillian discuss the complexities of Valentine's Day celebrations, the pressures of school involvement, and the impact of consumerism on family traditions. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with school events, wedding planning, and the expectations placed on parents. The conversation highlights the importance of finding balance and doing what feels right for each family, while also addressing the societal pressures that can make parenting feel overwhelming. Send us Fan Mail Support the show Subscribe today! Find us on Social media: https://www.instagram.com/honestmomtalkpod https://www.honestmomtalk.com/

    39 min
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About

Honest Mom Talk is the unfiltered podcast for moms who are tired of pretending everything’s fine and ready to have real conversations about motherhood, mental health, and making space for themselves. Hosted by Molly and Jillian, this show dives deep into the messy realities of modern motherhood—burnout, mom rage, mental load, identity loss, setting boundaries, and the constant battle between caring for your kids and caring for yourself. Each episode offers honest stories, expert insights, and practical tools to help you feel seen, supported, and more in control of your own motherhood journey. Whether you're drowning in mom guilt, touched out by bedtime, or wondering if you're the only one struggling—you’re not alone here. This is the space where moms get real. Because your needs matter. Your voice matters. And you still matter—beyond the role of "mom." New episodes every week. Let’s talk about the hard stuff—together.

Information

  • Creator
    Molly Ryden
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    74
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Honest Mom Talk
  • Show Website
    Honest Mom Talk