Real talk. Real women. Real laughs.

Episode 7 - Meemaw's Wisdom: Balancing Life with Love and Laughter

In Episode 7 of the podcast titled "Episode 7: Meemaw's Wisdom: Balancing Life with Love and Laughter," hosts Betsy and Brenda welcome their first guest, Meemaw. The episode is a delightful mix of humorous and heartfelt stories, focusing on family experiences, parenting, juggling work and family life, childhood memories, and transitioning to empty nesting. Meemaw shares her insights as a working mom and teacher, discussing the challenges and joys of raising children and the emotional transition to becoming an empty nester. The conversation emphasizes the importance of family bonds, coping with stress through laughter, and staying active and engaged in later life.

Episode 6: Juggling All the Summertime Fun and some Fails too!

In Episode 6 of the podcast titled " Juggling All the Summertime Fun and some fails too", Betsy and Brenda have a lively conversation about their experiences and challenges of organizing big events, such as graduation parties, for their children. They discuss the stress and effort involved in planning and executing these events, including coordinating food, and managing last-minute tasks. They also share humorous anecdotes, like finding unsent invitations and their dog's antics during the party. The conversation touches on the broader topic of summer activities for children, including the difficulties of arranging childcare and the fun and fails of teaching kids to ride bikes and swim. Throughout, they emphasize the importance of community support and maintaining a sense of humor.

Episode 5: You are Not an Imposter! The Trials and Triumphs of Job Hunting.

In Episode 5 of the podcast titled " You are not an Imposter! The Trials and Triumphs of Job Hunting ", Betsy and Brenda have a conversation where they share their experiences and insights on job hunting, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by recent graduates. They discuss their own journeys, including internships, first jobs, and the importance of perseverance and networking. They emphasize the value of gaining diverse experiences, dealing with imposter syndrome, and maintaining a positive attitude. The conversation also highlights the significance of hard work, dedication, and the willingness to learn and adapt in order to achieve long-term career success.

Episode 4: A Look Behind the Scenes: Family Moments from Snapshots to Suitcases

In Episode 4 of the podcast titled " A Look Behind the Scenes: Family Moments from Snapshots to Suitcases ", Betsy and Brenda discuss various family moments and experiences. They talk about the challenges and joys of taking family pictures. They share humorous anecdotes about coordinating outfits, dealing with cranky children, and capturing the perfect family photo. Brenda and Betsy also reminisce about their family vacations, including spontaneous trips and road trips. They discuss the importance of planning and the fun of last-minute adventures. The conversation highlights the value of cherishing family moments, whether through pictures or vacations, and the importance of enjoying the time spent together.

Episode 3: Making Memories, Sometimes Not as You Expected!

In Episode 3 of the podcast titled "Making Memories, Sometimes Not as you Expected!", Betsy and Brenda discuss the importance of making memories, both intentional and unintentional, and dedicate the episode to their loved ones. They share fond memories of their parents and the traditions they passed down, such as baking Christmas cookies, cutting down their own Christmas tree, and visiting Betsy's dad's Ranch. They also recount humorous and special moments, like Betsy's fried ice cream mishap, skiing adventures, and attending a Detroit Pistons game. They also mention birthday traditions, such as Brenda making special breakfast plates and decorating the house, which have become cherished memories for their children. The episode concludes with a reflection on the lasting impact of these memories and encourages listeners to ask their children about their favorite memories.

Episode 2: Mom Guilt – You don’t have to be a Superwoman!

In "Episode 2 Mom Guilt, You don't have to be a Superwoman!", Betsy and Brenda discuss the pervasive feeling of mom guilt that many mothers experience while trying to balance career and family life. They share personal anecdotes about their struggles with work travel, daycare challenges, and the pressure to be present at their children's events. They emphasize the importance of having a support system and being kind to oneself, acknowledging that it's impossible to be perfect in every scenario. The episode concludes with advice on focusing on the moments that matter and finding solace in small, manageable actions.

Episode 1: Embracing Life's Journey: Stories of Growth and Support (With a Dash of Humor)

"Embracing Life's Journey: Stories of Growth and Support (With a Dash of Humor)," shares personal stories of growth, support, and belief. It emphasizes the importance of encouragement and self-belief in overcoming challenges. The stories include overcoming doubts in high school track, being unexpectedly awarded as the best athlete, taking on leadership roles in sports teams, balancing career ambitions with motherhood, transitioning careers with the support of friends, and supporting children's activities. These narratives highlight how pivotal moments, and the support of others can lead to personal growth and success.

Episode 0: Welcome to Real talk. Real women. Real laughs.

Welcome to Real talk. Real women. Real laughs introduces a podcast hosted by Betsy Smith and Brenda Johnson. The podcast aims to share relatable experiences of raising families while managing careers, filled with heartfelt stories, practical experiences, and humor. Betsy and Brenda discuss themes like mom guilt, balancing work and family, the importance of support systems, and imposter syndrome. Each episode concludes with advice inspired by Betsy's mother, Meemaw, encouraging listeners to take life one step at a time, symbolized by lifting a coffee cup and drinking it one sip at a time.