Suburban Burnout

Ditch It in 2025: Parenting and Adulting Trends to Rethink

In this episode of Suburban Burnout, Laura and Megan discuss various parenting trends that they believe should be reconsidered or ditched altogether. They explore the impact of social media on parenting, the dangers of over-parenting, the concept of safetyism, and the shift from traditional birthday parties to more meaningful experiences. The conversation also touches on the challenges of intensive parenting and the importance of allowing children to have unstructured playtime. In this conversation, Laura and Megan explore various themes related to parenting, including the pressures of youth sports, the impact of eco-anxiety on children, the pitfalls of toxic wellness culture, the challenges of overconsumption and digital overload, and the emerging concept of JOMO (joy of missing out). They discuss the importance of balancing healthy living with realistic expectations and the need for open conversations about these topics to foster a healthier mindset for both parents and children.
Monthly Newsletter You Need in 2025: www.suburbanburnout.com
Takeaways
Parents should consider letting go of outdated parenting trends.
Social media can create unrealistic expectations for parenting.
Oversharing on social media can compromise children's privacy.
Overparenting can hinder children's independence and growth.
Safetyism can limit children's experiences and resilience.
Birthday parties should focus on experiences rather than extravagant spending.
Intensive parenting can lead to burnout for both parents and children.
It's important to set realistic expectations for children's behavior.
Encouraging unstructured play is vital for children's development.
Parents should prioritize meaningful experiences over material gifts. It's important to give kids more time to explore sports without pressure.
Eco-anxiety can be harmful if not approached appropriately with children.
Toxic wellness culture often has ulterior motives and can create confusion.
Overconsumption and reliance on digital devices can negatively impact parenting.
JOMO encourages finding joy in missing out on social events.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ditching Parenting Trends06:03 Overparenting and Its Consequences11:59 The Dangers of Over-Scheduled Lives17:57 Intensive Parenting and Its Effects33:56 Navigating Youth Sports and Pressure40:54 The Dangers of Toxic Wellness Culture49:08 Overcoming Overconsumption and Digital Overload01:00:41 Embracing the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO)

4 Pillars of Fatherhood: Become the Best Version of Yourself w/Rod Richards II

In this conversation, Rod Richard II shares his experiences and insights on fatherhood, discussing his upbringing, the challenges he faced as a father, and the importance of emotional presence. He emphasizes the need for fathers to be involved in their children's lives and the significance of having supportive father figures. Rod introduces the four pillars of fatherhood—family, faith, finance, and fitness—and explains how these elements contribute to a balanced and fulfilling parenting experience. He also reflects on his journey of finding purpose in fatherhood and the courage it takes to embrace change and take risks for the sake of family. In this conversation, Rod Richard discusses the importance of self-care for men, the challenges of modern fatherhood, and the need for emotional support and vulnerability. He emphasizes the myth of work-life balance, the significance of being present for family, and the unique challenges of raising daughters. Rod also shares insights on how men can support each other and the value of community in personal growth and parenting.
Ron leads the EPIC DAD Fit program, a transformative fitness community helping fathers over 35 reclaim their health, level up their fatherhood, and become the role models their families deserve. His podcast, 4 Fit Fatherhood, he explores the pillars of faith, family, finance, and fitness, providing valuable insights and inspiration for fathers navigating the complexities of modern parenthood. Roderick has cultivated a community of over 390,000 followers at @4fitfatherhood. When he’s not podcasting or coaching, Roderick runs The Shop, a premier gym training elite athletes and parents alike. 
Takeaways
Rod had two father figures but desired more emotional presence.
Many fathers feel like support players in early parenthood.
The lack of resources for fathers can lead to feelings of isolation.
Fatherhood requires a shift in identity and responsibilities.
Rod emphasizes the importance of being present for family.
The four pillars of fatherhood are family, faith, finance, and fitness.
Rod found his purpose in fatherhood after leaving a career with the Mets.
The pandemic allowed Rod to realize the importance of being home with family.
Fathers often feel overwhelmed by the responsibilities of parenthood.
Rod encourages fathers to use pressure as fuel for growth. Conquering internal struggles makes external challenges easier.
Self-care is essential for being present for others.
Work-life balance is a myth; prioritize quality time.
Men often feel they must handle everything alone.
Vulnerability can strengthen relationships.
Raising daughters requires embracing emotions.
Planning family time is crucial for presence.
Community support is vital for personal growth.
Listening to others' struggles can inspire action.
Don't give up on your partner's emotional journey.
Ron's wife, Ariel Macon-Richard is also a leader and inspiration with her book "The Power in Choosing: A Women's Guide go Guilt-Free Self-Care 
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Context06:10 Desires for Fatherhood and Emotional Presence16:56 The Shift in Identity as a Father23:37 The Four Pillars of Fatherhood28:59 Finding Purpose in Fatherhood34:29 Navigating Intrusive Thoughts and Self-Care41:50 Common Struggles of Modern Fathers51:39 Supporting Men in Fatherhood01:00:49 Coaching and Community for Fathers
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Reflect, Plan, Grow: Mapping Your Path for 2025

It's time to get more strategic and intentional with your 2025. First Megan and Laura will take you through the reflection questions that will help you grow and celebrate from your 2024. Then they move into top questions every persons and parent should ask themselves to help move into the new year with mindfulness and feeling powerful. 
For all the questions and clips visit our Instagram page @SuburbanBurnout
You won't be alone in asking these questions. Laura and Megan reflect on their experiences over the past year, discussing health challenges, holiday experiences, and the importance of community and personal growth. They share insights on parenting, setting intentions for the new year, and the significance of resilience in overcoming adversities.  In this conversation, Laura and Megan explore the challenges and exhaustion of parenting, particularly in solo situations. They discuss the importance of support systems, reevaluating priorities, and the lessons learned from their children. The conversation also touches on planning for the future and the significance of self-care and community in navigating the complexities of parenting.
Takeaways
Laura and Megan's holiday insights and closing thoughts to 2024.
Streaming shows can provide a temporary escape during sickness.
Setting intentions is more effective than traditional resolutions.
Finding joy in parenting often comes from simple moments.
Challenges can lead to personal growth and resilience.
Community support is vital in navigating challenges.
Letting go of negativity can be a significant hurdle.
Pushing past comfort zones can lead to professional growth.
Parenting requires continuous self-reflection and adjustment. Parenting can be exhausting, especially for solo parents.
Support from other parents is crucial for mental well-being.
Inconsistency in parenting can lead to confusion for children.
Communicating feelings to children helps in understanding emotions.
Getting outside of your comfort zone can refresh family dynamics.
Having something to look forward to can improve daily life.
Reevaluating priorities can help reduce feelings of overwhelm.
Suffering in silence is common, but reaching out is important.
Children can teach us valuable lessons about resilience and self-worth.
Planning for the future as a family can create shared goals.
www.suburbanbunout.com
 
 

Rebirth Through Motherhood, Overcoming Guilt & Self Doubt w/ Natasha Kredl

In this conversation, Natasha explores her journey from a hyper-independent, ambitious woman to a mother navigating the complexities of motherhood and integrative health. They discuss the importance of understanding women's health, the challenges of the healthcare system, and the need for self-awareness in breaking generational patterns. Tasha shares her personal experiences and insights on how to balance career ambitions with motherhood, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life and the importance of emotional safety. In this conversation, we explore the complexities of motherhood, focusing on themes such as resentment, boundaries, expectations, guilt, and the journey of personal growth. They discuss how societal pressures and personal experiences shape their understanding of motherhood and the importance of embracing vulnerability and patience in the parenting journey. In this conversation, Natasha Kredl shares her transformative journey through motherhood, touching on the realities of death, the choice of free birth, and the importance of knowledge and community in navigating these experiences. She discusses the challenges faced during her free birth, the mental and emotional aspects of postpartum life, and her future plans to support other mothers through her upcoming course, 'Thriving Mama.'
Thriving Woman Podcast 
Jedi Fam Podcast 
Social: @natashakredl
Takeaways
Natasha was very independent and ambitious before motherhood.
There is a missing piece in women's health education.
The healthcare system often focuses on disease rather than health.
Motherhood can be a transformative experience that challenges personal beliefs.
Self-awareness is key to breaking generational patterns. Resentment often stems from unmet expectations in motherhood.
Setting boundaries is crucial for personal well-being as a parent.
Guilt and shame can be natural emotions but should not define our identity.
Motherhood can lead to significant personal growth and self-discovery.
It's important to allow oneself to grieve the loss of pre-baby identity.
Patience is a skill that can be developed through parenting.
Embracing vulnerability can lead to deeper connections with children.
Expectations should be adjusted to align with reality, not societal norms.
Women often internalize experiences more than men, affecting their self-perception.
Motherhood can be a catalyst for liberation and clarity in life choices. We mourn our pre-baby selves, but transformation is okay.
Society is death-phobic, making it hard for mothers.
Free birth is about having a birth on your own terms.
Knowledge is crucial for a safe free birth experience.
Trusting your body and baby is essential during birth.
Birth can be traumatic, regardless of the setting.
Postpartum is a lifelong journey, not just a phase.
Creating a supportive community is vital for mothers.
Social media can help build virtual support networks.
Empowerment through knowledge can change birth experiences.
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Redefining and Building Your Community

In this Suburban Burnout conversation, Megan and Laura explore the theme of community, discussing the challenges of building connections in different life stages. They reflect on personal experiences, the impact of upbringing on community involvement, and the importance of trust in relationships. The discussion also delves into the evolving nature of friendships over time and the significance of finding joy and purpose within a community. In this conversation, Megan and Laura explore the complexities of building friendships and community as adults. They discuss the challenges of making new connections, the courage required to initiate friendships, and the importance of intentionality in seeking out meaningful relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for creativity in social interactions and the evaluation of existing community dynamics, encouraging listeners to reflect on their social circles and the reciprocity of their relationships.
Takeaways
Community is about belonging, support, and connection.
Many people feel lonely despite being surrounded by others.
Upbringing plays a significant role in how we connect with our communities.
It's important to analyze what community means to you personally.
Trust is a crucial element in building relationships.
Engaging with the community can provide a sense of fulfillment.
Different personalities can affect community dynamics.
Finding joy in community interactions is essential for personal growth.
Friendships evolve as life circumstances change, especially with children.
Creating roots in your community can enhance your sense of belonging. Every teen has their cell phone and they're like, bye mom.
It's interesting because even the younger generation doesn't fully know what a community could be.
A lot of people are struggling mentally.
We have to ask ourselves what's missing.
It takes a lot of courage to go up to that mom.
You have to take the initiative.
You can start chit chatting with people.
You need to recategorize that friendship.It's not what you know, it's who you know.
You may find that you have developed a community you are growing with.
Chapters
00:00 The Quest for Community05:49 The Role of Upbringing in Community Connections11:51 Navigating Trust and Relationships17:45 Understanding Different Personalities in Community23:54 The Evolution of Friendships Over Time30:19 The Courage to Connect39:43 Intentionality in Friendships46:35 Evaluating Community Dynamics

Activating Joy, Power & Strength in the Face of Tragedy w/Courtney Runyon

Today’s Suburban Burnout guest is the extraordinary Courtney Runyon. At 33, Courtney’s life changed overnight when she was paralyzed from the neck down due to a rare autoimmune disorder. She lost everything—her independence, her career, her savings, and the life she loved. But instead of giving up, Courtney chose to rebuild, not just her body, but her entire outlook on life. www.courtneyrunyon.com 
 
Through unimaginable challenges, Courtney discovered the power of positivity, resilience, and finding joy—even in the darkest times. She’s a writer, coach, and motivational speaker who now shares her roadmap to healing and transformation, teaching us how to embrace life’s hardest transitions and love the chapters we never wanted.
This is more than a story of recovery—it’s a testament to the human spirit. Get ready to be inspired, laugh, cry, and see your own challenges in a new light. Let’s dive into this unforgettable conversation with Courtney Runyon. 
Takeaways
Authenticity can be hard for people sometimes.
There's not just one way to be happy.
We are here to create ourselves, not just find ourselves.
Traveling can provide a new perspective on life.
Experiences like ayahuasca can lead to profound self-acceptance.
Life choices come with grief over missed opportunities.
Doing something new can spark joy and change your perspective.
Specialized medical care is crucial for accurate diagnosis.It's important to embrace your wild side and accept who you are.
Life paths can lead to unexpected and fulfilling experiences.
Timely medical attention can prevent permanent disabilities.
Understanding your diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
Stress can significantly impact physical health and recovery.
Insurance policies can delay necessary medical treatments.
Finding joy in adversity can enhance recovery.
Support systems are vital during challenging times.
Empathy can lead to systemic inflammation in the body.
You can choose happiness regardless of circumstances.
Setting new goals can provide motivation during recovery.
There is power in sharing your story and experiences.
www.suburbanburnout.com
 

Walk Away to Win: Thriving Beyond Toxic Workplaces with Megan Carle

On this episode of Suburban Burnout, Megan Carle shares her journey from a sports-oriented upbringing to a successful career at Nike, where she faced workplace bullying. This led her to writing her remarkable book, Walk Away To Win. She discusses the early days at Nike, the camaraderie among colleagues, and the red flags she encountered, particularly during a pivotal meeting in Paris. Megan emphasizes the patterns of bullying, its impact on mental health, and the importance of recognizing these behaviors. She reflects on her decision to leave Nike after witnessing a culture of mistreatment and the subsequent revelations in the 2018 New York Times article about workplace issues at the company. The conversation highlights the collective voice of women standing up against bullying and the need for kindness and respect in the workplace. In this conversation, Megan Carle discusses her experiences with workplace bullying, the importance of compliance, and the strategies for addressing such behavior. She emphasizes the need for documentation, the role of allies, and the impact of bullying on personal identity. The discussion also covers navigating HR dynamics, crafting exit stories, and the importance of leadership training to create a healthier workplace culture. Megan shares insights on empowering future generations and her upcoming leadership program, Lead. Always.
Listen to Megan's Podcast: Lead Always Podcast
Takeaways
Megan's background in a sports family shaped her career.
Early days at Nike fostered camaraderie and passion.
Recognizing red flags in workplace bullying is crucial.
Workplace bullying often manifests as a pattern of behavior.
Mental health is significantly impacted by workplace bullying.
Leaving a toxic environment is a necessary step for well-being.
The 2018 New York Times article highlighted systemic issues at Nike.
Women banding together can create change in corporate culture.
Understanding the difference between bullying and rudeness is essential.
Identifying different types of bullies can help in navigating workplace dynamics.
Compliance can often be a default response in leadership.
Ignoring or resisting bullying can be effective strategies.
Documenting incidents is crucial for addressing workplace issues.
Personal and professional boundaries are essential for well-being.
Experiencing bullying can lead to feelings of powerlessness.
Bullying can significantly impact one's personal identity and confidence.
Crafting a clear exit story is important when leaving a toxic environment.
Allies play a vital role in supporting those facing bullying.
Navigating HR can be complex; documentation is key.
Leadership training can help reduce workplace bullying and improve culture.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Megan Carle and Her Journey03:11 Early Days at Nike: A Sports Family Background06:06 Recognizing Red Flags: The Paris Meeting Incident09:00 Understanding Workplace Bullying: Patterns and Effects12:05 The Impact of Bullying on Mental Health15:08 The Shift: Realizing the Need for Change18:03 The Aftermath: Leaving Nike and the 2018 Exposé20:51 The Collective Voice: Women Standing Up23:50 The Silence of Workplace Bullying26:51 Distinguishing Bullying from Rudeness30:09 Categories of Bullies: Understanding Their Tactics32:54 Navigating Corporate Dynamics: Values and Alignment36:10 Diffusing Situations: Strategies and Reflections47:17 Understanding Compliance in Leadership50:12 Strategies for Addressing Bullying Behavior51:13 The Importance of Documentation52:40 Navigating Personal and Professional Boundaries54:54 Experiences of Compliance and Power Imbalance56:22 The Impact of Bullying on Personal Identity58:00 Crafting Your Exit Story01:01:25 The Role of Allies in Workplace Dynamics01:03:55 Navigating HR: Pros and Cons01:08:18 Building Better Leaders to Combat Bullying01:12:27 Empowering Future Generations01:18:00 Next Steps: Leadership Programs and Initiatives

Holiday Sanity Check: 5 Essential Questions to Create a Season That Works for You

In this episode, Megan and Laura discuss the emotional and mental preparation needed for the holiday season to avoid burnout. This will be an active episode with questions you need to ask yourself to prepare for the holiday season. So get a pin and paper ready as they share personal experiences and insights on setting boundaries, managing family expectations, and creating a holiday experience that aligns with individual needs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of gratitude, self-care, and intentionality in holiday planning, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own holiday vibes and how to navigate family dynamics effectively.
NEW NEWSLETTER: www.suburbanburnout.com
In this conversation, Megan and Laura discuss the complexities of navigating family dynamics during the holidays, emphasizing the importance of managing expectations, creating memorable experiences for children, and simplifying hosting responsibilities. They explore the impact of consumerism on holiday spending and share strategies for maintaining mental peace amidst the chaos of the season. The dialogue highlights the significance of compromise, delegation, and planning ahead to foster a joyful holiday atmosphere while minimizing stress. In this conversation, Megan and Laura discuss the complexities of navigating the holiday season as parents. They emphasize the importance of setting boundaries, saying no, and prioritizing mental peace. The discussion also touches on evolving family traditions, the impact of generational expectations, and the need to define what truly matters during the holidays. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to embrace their unique holiday experiences and find joy amidst the chaos.
Cadeau Candles: www.cadeaudrippingsprings.com
Holiday Inspo: Interior Designer and former guest Jenna Zielbauer https://covetedhaus.com/
Takeaways
It's important to prepare emotionally and mentally for the holidays.
Setting boundaries is crucial to avoid holiday burnout.
Family dynamics can complicate holiday planning.
Finding gratitude can help shift negative feelings during stressful times.
Less is more when it comes to holiday traditions and activities.
It's okay to prioritize your immediate family's needs during the holidays.
Communicating openly with family can alleviate pressure and expectations.
Creating a holiday vibe that suits you is essential for enjoyment.
Planning activities that cater to both kids and adults can enhance the holiday experience.
Compromise is key in balancing family expectations and personal well-being.
Propose alternatives when unable to meet expectations.
Creating memorable experiences is more important than material gifts.
Compromise is essential in managing family traditions.
Simplifying hosting can alleviate stress during the holidays.
Awareness of consumerism can help manage holiday spending.
Planning ahead can save money and reduce last-minute stress.
Finding personal peace is crucial during chaotic family gatherings.
Delegating responsibilities can lead to a more enjoyable holiday.
Experiences can be more valuable than physical gifts.
Communication is key to managing family dynamics. You will give zero fucks about others' opinions.
Setting limits for kids is essential for balance.
Saying no can lead to mental peace.
Expectations for holidays have changed over generations.
It's important to define what matters during the holidays.
Creating holiday cheer is a personal journey.
Hard decisions can lead to better family experiences.
Communication is key in holiday planning.
Prioritize self-care during the holiday season.
Finding joy in the holidays is unique to each family.

Growing Resilient Kids: A Simple Seed of Gratitude w/Katie Wood

In this episode, Katie Wood opens up about her journey of discovering gratitude during a challenging time in her family’s life, leading her to write A Simple Seed, a unique gratitude journal designed to empower children. She shares how practicing gratitude transformed her perspective, inspiring her to help kids develop resilience, emotional intelligence, and a positive mindset. Katie dives into the importance of intentional parenting, communication, and morning routines, and how these practices foster mental health and confidence in children. Tune in to hear Katie’s insights on navigating life’s transitions, understanding youth anxiety, and her vision for making a lasting impact on families and future generations.
Website: https://simpleseedjournal.com
Social Media: @Katiewood_simpleseed
Takeaways
Gratitude helps rewire the mind to focus on positivity.
Morning routines are crucial for mental well-being.
Teaching kids gratitude can empower them for life.
Humor plays a significant role in healing and resilience.
Gratitude practices can be easily integrated into daily life.
Intentional parenting involves proactive teaching of life lessons.
Gratitude can combat negativity and anxiety in children.
The reticular activating system helps focus on what matters.
Creating a gratitude practice can strengthen family bonds.
Gratitude can be a powerful tool in navigating the challenges of adolescence. We live in a world filled with stress and anxiety.
It's crucial to control what we can control in our lives.
Instilling gratitude in children can have long-lasting benefits.
Communication between parents and children fosters deeper connections.
A setback can lead to a greater comeback in life.
Investing time in children is essential for their growth.
Practicing gratitude can change perspectives and improve mental health.
Children are more receptive to learning when they feel good about themselves.
The little daily practices can lead to significant changes over time.
Parents should model vulnerability to help children feel understood.
 
Chapters
00:00 The Power of Gratitude in Challenging Times02:58 Creating a Family Gratitude Practice05:51 The Importance of Morning Routines09:01 Teaching Kids Resilience and Mindfulness11:56 The Role of Humor in Healing15:02 Empowering Children Through Gratitude17:58 Implementing Gratitude in Schools20:55 The Science Behind Gratitude Practices24:02 Navigating the Teen Years with Gratitude30:12 Navigating Life's Transitions31:15 Understanding Youth Anxiety and Stress34:41 Instilling Gratitude and Mindset in Children39:14 The Power of Communication in Parenting45:08 Future Endeavors and Expanding Impact
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@suburbanburnout
 

Handled Home: Your Solution to Household Burnout

In this conversation, Tia Smith and Val Bartlett discuss their journey as working moms who founded The Handled Home, a service designed to help families manage their household tasks. They share the challenges they faced in balancing work and home life, the decision to start a business together, and the importance of outsourcing tasks to create more family time. The discussion also covers the various services offered by The Handled Home, the significance of proactive planning, and how they customize their approach to meet the unique needs of each family. They emphasize the importance of privacy and trust in their service, the values they hope to instill in their children, and the positive impact their service can have on families. Finally, they provide insights on how to get started with The Handled Home and the future goals for their business.
If you're struggling to keep up with life and looking for a lifeline, reach out for a consultation at contact@thehandledhome.co or DM on IG @thehandledhomeatx. The Handled Home Team can’t wait to change your life!
Takeaways
The Handled Home was inspired by the daily challenges of working moms.
Outsourcing household tasks can lead to better family time.
Customization is key to meeting the unique needs of families.
Privacy and trust are essential in home management services.
Teaching children the value of hard work and responsibility is important.
The Handled Home aims to alleviate the mental load of parents.
Proactive planning can prevent last-minute stress.
The service can be tailored to fit different family dynamics.
House managers can provide a fresh perspective on household management.
The future goal is to expand the service to more communities.
 
Chapters
00:00 The Inspiration Behind The Handled Home03:00 The Challenges of Balancing Work and Home Life06:08 The Decision to Start a Business Together09:07 Outsourcing Household Tasks for Better Family Time11:48 Services Offered by The Handled Home14:58 The Importance of Proactive Planning17:56 Understanding Client Needs and Customization21:07 The Role of House Managers23:48 Future Goals for The Handled Home27:00 Privacy and Trust in Home Management30:03 Teaching Values to the Next Generation32:54 The Impact of The Handled Home on Families36:02 How to Get Started with The Handled Home