Suburban Burnout

Less Effort, More Glow: Minimalist Beauty & A Courageous Business Pivot w/Stephanie Garcia-Malcom

Quick makeup and skincare tips for a refreshed look—and the bold decision to walk away from a successful life chapter in pursuit of creativity, balance, motherhood, and meaning.
Ever feel overwhelmed by the endless beauty trends and skin products promising miracles? This episode will flip the script on everything you thought you knew about skincare, makeup, and aging. Stephanie Garcia-Malcom, a celebrity and fashion makeup artist with 20+ years of global experience, joins us to share the real secrets to glowing skin, aging gracefully, and simplifying your beauty routine.
Stephanie started her career in London, spent years traveling the world, worked Fashion Weeks in London and New York, lived and worked in LA for seven years, and now calls the Texas Hill Country home. She’s worked with clients like Nina Dobrev, Alexa Chung, Benedict Cumberbatch, Cara Delevingne, Elle Macpherson, Suki Waterhouse, Jane Seymour, Madelaine Petsch, and more. The consistent reason they call her? Her “less is more” approach to makeup and skin that enhances natural beauty—not hides it.
With a Fine Art degree guiding her expert eye for symmetry and color, Stephanie brings a unique artistry to beauty. Her editorial work has graced the pages of Grazia, Glamour, Marie Claire, Vogue UK and Russia, Wonderland, and Harper’s Hong Kong.
Instagram @stephanieminimalistmakeup
In this episode, we dive into:
Why simplified skincare is more powerful than a 12-step routine
How gut health, face mapping, and collagen connect to skin concerns
What aging skin really needs (hint: it’s not just more water)
Practical beauty routines and makeup tips for busy women
Her courageous decision to walk away from a thriving beauty brand
The power of mentorship, community, and rediscovering your purpose
Holistic tools like gua sha and cupping for glowing, healthy skin
Download Stephanie effortless morning routine. LINK

Part Two: Nurse Mercy’s Real Talk on Peptides, Protein & Health Over 30

In this one of two conversations with Nurse Mercy co-founder of Connect Mobile Health, we delve into the world of peptides, discussing their benefits, the importance of proper medical supervision, and the individualization of treatment. They explore the role of peptides in muscle building, the significance of protein intake, and the impact of gut health on overall wellness. The discussion also touches on the importance of tracking bone density and muscle mass, as well as the role of creatine in maintaining muscle health, especially as one ages. At the very end Nurse Mercy leaves us with the most vital wisdom for creating the best ecosystem for your health and wellness that will exceed fad diets or supplements. For part one listen HERE
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If you missed Part One, Mercy left hospital nursing behind and built a thriving mobile wellness practice in Austin—bringing IV therapy, NAD+, and personalized care straight to people's homes. She’s worked with everyone from busy moms to big names like Joe Rogan and Baker Mayfield—and her passion for helping people optimize their health is next level.
Takeaways
Having a good provider is crucial for peptide therapy.
Peptides can have significant effects on health optimization.
Individual screening is necessary to determine peptide candidacy.
Not all peptides stimulate human growth hormone.
Protein intake should be prioritized, especially in the morning.
Muscle building is essential as we age.
Gut health can improve with mindful eating and peptide use.
Regular lab work helps track health progress.
Creatine is beneficial for muscle health, especially in aging individuals.
Peptides are not a magic solution; they require effort and lifestyle changes.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Peptides and Their Importance05:04 Understanding Candidate Suitability for Peptides10:34 The Role of Peptides in Muscle Building15:15 Protein Intake and Its Impact on Health21:05 Bone Density and Muscle Mass Tracking26:31 Gut Health and Its Connection to Peptides31:21 The Importance of Creatine in Muscle Health32:02 Understanding Creatine and Its Benefits35:05 Creatine for Women: Myths and Realities41:31 The Importance of Recovery in Fitness49:12 Nutrition and Growth: Fueling Young Athletes56:00 The Power of Community and Mindset
  

NCA Profit over Protection? The Stampede, Safety Failures, & Conspiracy Theories

UPDATE: Listen at the end for a Varsity NCA update presented after the initial episode was recorded (added 3/11/2025)
In this episode of Suburban Burnout, Laura and Megan discuss the chaos that unfolded during the NCAA National Cheerleading Association's national competition in Dallas, where an active scare led to mass panic. They explore the events leading up to the incident, the reactions from parents and attendees, and the subsequent media coverage. The conversation delves into the implications of security measures at large events and the conflicting narratives surrounding the incident, ultimately questioning the adequacy of safety protocols in place. In this conversation, Laura and Megan discuss the recent safety concerns surrounding cheerleading competitions, particularly focusing on the lack of security measures and the prioritization of profit over safety. They reflect on the emotional impact of a chaotic event, the resilience of the cheer community, and the financial burdens placed on parents. The discussion also touches on the economic implications of such events and the need for better safety protocols in the future, ultimately highlighting the strength and support found within the cheer community.
Have thoughts or information on this topic or any youth sports association? Contact us: www.suburbanburnout.com
Takeaways
The NCAA competition is a major event for cheerleading.
An active shooter scare caused panic among attendees.
Fear and anxiety are heightened in today's society.
Media coverage can shape public perception of events.
Security measures at large events are often inadequate.
Conflicting accounts can lead to confusion and misinformation.
Public reactions can vary widely based on personal experiences.
The importance of clear communication during crises is crucial.
Alcohol can exacerbate tensions at public events.
The need for better safety protocols at large gatherings is evident. Profit margins are prioritized over safety in events.
The response from Varsity after the incident was inadequate.
The emotional impact of the event was significant for attendees.
Community support was evident in the aftermath of the chaos.
Parents face substantial financial burdens in competitive cheer.
The economic impact of cheer competitions is substantial for cities.
There is a need for improved security measures at events.
Trauma from such events can manifest in various ways.
The cheer community showed resilience and kindness during the crisis.
Conversations about safety and financial expectations are crucial for parents.
 
 

Raising Boys: Puberty, Communication, and Healthy Development

In this insightful episode of the Suburban Burnout podcast, hosts Laura and Megan draw inspiration from Dr. Cara Natterson's book, Decoding Boys: New Science Behind the Subtle Art of Raising Sons, to explore the multifaceted journey of parenting boys through adolescence. They delve into the unique challenges mothers face during their sons' tween and teen years, emphasizing the critical role of open communication in fostering trust and understanding. The discussion sheds light on the physical and emotional changes boys experience during puberty, highlighting the importance of addressing topics such as sexual development, consent, and body image. Laura and Megan also examine the impact of nutrition, sleep, and technology on boys' well-being, offering practical strategies to establish boundaries and guide healthy habits. By confronting the influence of media and pornography on young men's perceptions of sex, they underscore the necessity of early and ongoing conversations about healthy sexuality. This episode equips parents with the knowledge and tools to support their sons' development into confident, respectful, and well-adjusted individuals.
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Takeaways
Raising boys can be particularly challenging and stressful for mothers.
Open communication is crucial during the tween and teen years.
Understanding puberty in boys is essential for effective parenting.
Nutrition and sleep play a significant role in adolescent development.
Technology and screen time can impact sleep and emotional health.
Teens often make poor decisions due to underdeveloped brains.
Building connections with teens requires understanding their interests.
Coping mechanisms are important for managing emotions during adolescence.
Establishing trust and safe spaces for dialogue is vital.
Sexual development and media influence are critical topics to address with boys.
Pornography can create unrealistic sexual expectations for young men.
Healthy sexual relationships should be the ultimate goal for parents.
Parental controls on devices are essential for protecting children.
Conversations about consent should be ongoing and age-appropriate.
Boys face body image issues similar to girls, often influenced by societal standards.
Parents should frame discussions around health rather than weight.
Open communication about sexuality can prevent misinformation from peers.
Consent can be withdrawn at any time during sexual interactions.
Boys need to learn about respecting boundaries in all aspects of life.
Parents should not assume their children are too young to discuss sexual topics.
Purchase Book for yourself LINK
 

IV Therapy, Peptides & the Wellness Trends Everyone’s Talking About with Nurse Mercy

In this conversation, Nurse Mercy shares her journey from a traditional nursing role to founding Connect Mobile Health, highlighting the challenges faced in the healthcare system, especially during the pandemic. She discusses the importance of preventative care, insights gained from home visits with mothers, and practical health protocols. The conversation also delves into the benefits of NAD treatments and the differences between IV and supplement forms, emphasizing the need for individualized health solutions. In this conversation, Laura and Mercy delve into the world of peptides, discussing their applications, benefits, and potential risks. They explore the nuances of human growth hormone, the role of peptides in weight loss, and the importance of proper guidance when using these substances. The discussion also touches on personal health routines and the significance of maintaining a balanced approach to wellness. Look for PART II soon to go over everything we couldn't fit into an hour long podcast. This information will have you wanting more!
https://connectmobilehealth.com/
Monthly Suburban Burnout Newsletter
BIO: After years as a hospital nurse, Mercy Henderson saw firsthand the gaps in traditional healthcare and knew there had to be a better way. Enter Connect Mobile Health—co-founded by Mercy during the pandemic with a mission to keep people out of hospitals and bring high-quality, concierge-level care directly to them. From IV therapy and peptide treatments to the cutting-edge benefits of NAD+, Mercy has become the go-to expert for those looking to optimize their health on their terms. With a client list that includes high performers like Joe Rogan and Baker Mayfield, her work is redefining what accessible, personalized wellness looks like. 
Takeaways
Nursing can be overwhelming and unprepared for real hospital challenges.
Burnout in healthcare is a common experience, especially post-pandemic.
Connect Mobile Health was born from a need for better patient care.
Preventative care is essential for maintaining health and wellness.
Moms are proactive and intentional about their health and recovery.
Basic health protocols include hydration, sleep, and protein intake.
NAD is a powerful treatment for recovery and energy.
IV treatments offer immediate benefits compared to supplements.
Health solutions should be individualized based on personal needs.
It's important to see tangible results from health investments. Peptides are a broad category with various applications.
BPC 157 can aid in tissue repair when injected.
Human growth hormone has benefits but can pose risks if misused.
Proper guidance from a healthcare provider is crucial when using peptides.
Weight loss peptides can lead to loss of lean muscle mass if not managed correctly.
Protein intake is essential when using weight loss peptides.
Regular exercise should accompany peptide use for optimal results.
Monitoring body composition is important when using weight loss peptides.
Mental health plays a significant role in overall wellness.
Investing in quality healthcare and wellness practices is key. 
 
 
 
 

The Corporate Mom Dilemma: Career, Motherhood & Asking for more w/Katie LaFranchi

In this episode, Laura sits down with Katie LaFranchi, a seasoned People Operations leader with 20 years of experience, to dive into the realities of corporate motherhood. As a fractional CHRO and Partner at Ampleo, Katie brings her expertise in workplace culture, leadership dynamics, and career advocacy to the conversation. Together, they explore how women can ask for and receive what they deserve—from salary negotiations to workplace flexibility and leadership opportunities.
The discussion covers generational shifts in corporate America, including how Gen Z is reshaping expectations, the persistent biases women face in leadership, and the critical need for women to support, mentor, and advocate for one another. Katie shares her insights on navigating maternity leave, career progression, and the power of networking, offering actionable strategies for corporate moms looking to own their worth and push for change.
Beyond the boardroom, Katie also reflects on her personal journey balancing an executive career with raising three kids in Austin, TX—proving that while the juggle is real, so is the power of advocating for yourself.
www.suburbanburnout.com 
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Takeaways
Balancing work and family is a significant challenge for corporate moms.
Effective communication with partners is crucial for shared responsibilities.
Choosing the right partner can significantly impact work-life balance.
Gen Z prioritizes purpose-driven work and flexibility over traditional job loyalty.
Employers must adapt to the changing expectations of younger generations.
Women often face bias in leadership roles, being perceived as aggressive.
Internalized misogyny can lead to women undermining each other in the workplace.
Negotiating salary and job titles is essential for career advancement.
Workplace flexibility is increasingly important for employee satisfaction.
Measuring outcomes rather than hours worked can lead to better productivity.
There's a queen bee mentality among women in leadership.
Collaboration and sharing credit are vital for success.
Progress in gender equality is slow but noticeable.
Maternity leave can significantly impact career advancement.
Women should embrace their feminine qualities in the workplace.
Advocating for oneself is crucial for career growth.
Mentorship can provide valuable support and guidance.
Networking is essential for building professional relationships.
Feedback is a gift that can help in career development.
Women need to support each other to thrive in their careers.

The Birth of MomBrain: How Two Women Built the Ultimate Community for Moms

Co-Founder of MomBrain, Jaime Oliver shares her journey of juggling multiple roles as a mother, professional, and entrepreneur. She discusses the inspiration behind creating MomBrain, a supportive community for mothers to connect and share experiences anonymously. The conversation delves into the challenges of launching the platform, the importance of community engagement, and the unique features that set MomBrain apart, including expert advice and a focus on mental health. Jaime also highlights the significance of their pink smiley hats initiative aimed at supporting maternal mental health and their aspirations for future growth. In this conversation, Jaime Oliver discusses the vision and development of Mombrain, a community platform aimed at supporting mothers. The discussion covers the importance of feedback from users, the need for personalization in content, and the challenges faced by mothers, especially those with teenagers. Jaime emphasizes the transformative power of community and the significance of authenticity in motherhood, highlighting the shared experiences and support that can be found among moms.
Join MomBrain today! LINK
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Takeaways
Moms often feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities.
Community support is crucial for mothers.
Creating a platform for anonymous questions helps reduce judgment.
Networking and mentorship are vital in entrepreneurship.
Events can provide value and foster community connections.
Expert advice can complement peer support in parenting.
Moms seek practical solutions to everyday challenges.
The importance of mental health awareness in motherhood.
Building a positive community requires active moderation.
Future growth plans include expanding the platform nationally. Mombrain aims to be a supportive community for mothers.
Feedback from users is crucial for the platform's growth.
Personalization of content will enhance user experience.
Teen challenges are a significant topic among mothers.
Community support can transform motherhood experiences.
Balancing work and motherhood is a common struggle.
Authenticity in conversations is vital for connection.
Moms need a space to share heartfelt questions.
The platform encourages real discussions without judgment.
Partnerships among moms can lead to better solutions.
Chapters
00:00 Juggling Life's Responsibilities03:05 The Birth of MomBrain05:51 Navigating the Creation Process09:13 Community Engagement and Support12:13 Expertise and Anonymity in Advice15:03 Common Questions and Real Concerns18:08 Building a Positive Community20:57 The Pink Smiley Hats Initiative24:07 Future Aspirations and Growth27:00 The Vision for Mombrain: A Community for Moms28:58 Feedback and Engagement: Listening to the Audience30:59 Personalization and Content Curation for Moms33:02 Navigating Teen Challenges: Real Conversations39:10 The Transformative Power of Community41:52 Balancing Work and Motherhood: Shared Experiences48:00 Authenticity in Motherhood: Real Conversations Matter
MomBrain social media @mombrainofficial 

Repost:Expert Advice on Love, Sex, & Connection W/Dr. Bianca Mickan

We wanted to bring one of our favorite episodes back for all those who may be new here. We dive deep into the world of relationships, love, and intimacy with a very special guest, Dr. Bianca Mickan. Definitely listen until the VERY END because she provides exercises, apps and books that you are going to want to implement in your life. 
Dr. Mickan, a seasoned expert in the field of couples' therapy, joins us to share her fascinating journey and the path that led her to her current profession. We'll uncover the secrets behind her passion for helping couples navigate the twists and turns of modern life.
Throughout the episode, we explore the real life issues and themes that Dr. Mickan assists couples in resolving. From communication to when couples seek therapy and everything in between, we'll gain valuable insights into the challenges couples face and how to overcome them.
But that's not all; we delve into the complexities of sex and intimacy within marriage. Dr. B enlightens us about the most common perspectives held by women and men individually and provides guidance on how couples can broach this sensitive topic, especially when it feels uncomfortable to discuss. Are men really from Mars and women from Venus? Dr. B gives on this concept as well as her insight on what percentage of intimacy and sex should be contributed to the relationship. Her amazing take of this will give you hope for future busy days ahead in suburban life. 
For those looking to spice up their relationships, we've got you covered too! Dr. Mickan shares practical suggestions and recommendations, from fun games to engaging conversation topics, that can help couples enhance their connection and intimacy.
And when it comes to talking to your kids about sex, we discuss effective strategies and provide a list of recommended books, exercises, and resources to make those conversations more comfortable and informative.
But that's not all! We also have amazing tips for date night that will reignite the spark in your relationship. Plus, we'll introduce you to apps that can help create deeper connections and bring you closer as a couple.
Tune in to the "Suburban Burnout Podcast" as we embark on a journey through the intricate world of relationships, with the wisdom and expertise of Dr. Bianca Mickan to light the way. It's time to strengthen your bonds, reignite the spark, and find fulfillment in your suburban love story, all while equipping you with the tools you need to navigate the challenges of modern relationships and family life.
 
Dr. B's Practice: https://www.drmessina.com/provider/bianca-mickan-phd
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Applying The Let Them Theory To Your Season of Life

In this episode of Suburban Burnout, Laura and Megan delve into Mel Robbins' book, Let Them, discussing the core concept of the Let Them Theory, which emphasizes the importance of letting go of things beyond our control while taking responsibility for our reactions. They explore practical applications of this theory in everyday situations, relationships, and parenting, highlighting the significance of emotional intelligence and accountability. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating interpersonal dynamics and the tools necessary for effective communication and personal growth. In this conversation, Laura and Megan explore various themes related to parenting, friendships, family dynamics, financial support, and emotional intelligence. They discuss the importance of communication, setting expectations, and empowering children with tools to navigate their emotions. The conversation also touches on the complexities of adult relationships and the significance of understanding one's worth and the dynamics of support versus enabling.
Takeaways
The Let Them Theory encourages letting go of things we cannot control.
Taking a step back and saying 'let me' helps regain control over our reactions.
Understanding others' perspectives can improve relationships.
Parenthood often forces interactions with people we wouldn't choose.
Emotional intelligence is crucial for personal and parenting success.
Accountability is key in relationships and parenting.
Effective communication involves understanding feelings and actions.
Tools like the ABCs can help influence behavior positively.
It's important to recognize the emotional labor involved in parenting.
The depth of understanding the Let Them Theory can lead to real change. It's important to protect yourself from unwanted behavior.
Patience and understanding are key in parenting.
Encouraging children to take ownership of their actions can be beneficial.
Friendships can change over time; it's essential to recognize this.
Changing expectations can relieve emotional burdens.
Financial support should come with clear conditions to avoid enabling.
The 80-20 rule highlights the importance of focusing on the positives in relationships.
Empowering children with emotional tools can help them navigate challenges.
Communication is crucial in maintaining healthy relationships.
Understanding your worth is vital for personal growth.
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Fueling Motherhood: Nutrition for Pregnancy and Postpartum Wellness w/Jeanne Reilly

Motherhood is hard enough—don’t let nutrition make it harder. Join Megan and Laura as they dive into postpartum health with Jeanne Reilly, a Registered Dietitian, mother of two, and Co-Founder of I Am Nurtured. Jeanne brings over a decade of expertise and personal passion to uncover the often-overlooked nutritional and hormonal challenges moms face during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.
In this insightful conversation, Jeanne shares actionable advice on navigating postpartum recovery, advocating for your health, and understanding the impact of stress, diet, and cultural pressures on new moms. Discover how proper nutrition can empower you to feel your best, nurture your health, and thrive in motherhood. Learn about Jeanne’s journey to co-founding I Am Nurtured and how her team created a groundbreaking prenatal and postnatal supplement tailored to meet the unique needs of mothers at every stage. Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or supporting a mother, this episode will inspire and equip you to approach motherhood with strength and confidence.
https://www.iamnurtured.com/
Social: IAmNurtured
Takeaways
Once you've had a baby, you're forever postpartum.
Many doctors receive little to no nutrition training.
Postpartum symptoms are often dismissed as normal.
Moms should advocate for themselves regarding health.
Nutrition during pregnancy is often focused on the baby, not the mother.
Support systems are crucial for new mothers.
Insurance often does not cover nutritionists for healthy pregnancies.
There is a lack of education on postpartum nutrition.
Quality supplements can make a significant difference.
The supplement industry is largely unregulated. Nutrition for children has changed significantly over the years.
Postpartum recovery requires a focus on nutrition and self-care.
Stress can severely impact new mothers' health and well-being.
Cultural pressures can add to the challenges of motherhood.
Nutrition is a critical component of motherhood and family health.
The mind-body connection is essential for postpartum recovery.
Future nutritional support should address all life stages, including menopause.
Whole foods should be prioritized over processed foods in diets.
Fats are essential for health, contrary to popular belief.
Finding reliable nutritional guidance is crucial for health and wellness. 
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