The Parenting 411 Podcast

Managing the ‘Mother Load’ While Building a Brand

Julie Cole calls herself a “recovered lawyer”.  She’s the mom of six, and co-founder of Mabel’s Labels, the now award-winning, multimillion-dollar label company that started in a basement. Julie tells the real story behind growing a business while raising a big family, navigating an autism diagnosis, and learning that self-care sometimes looks less like spa days…and more like boundaries, help, and lowering your standards without shame.
This conversation is equal parts inspiring and practical—with plenty of takeaways for moms who are building dreams, raising kids, and trying to do it all without burning out.
In This Episode, You’ll Hear About:
How Julie Cole and her co-founders spotted a market gap that became Mabel’s Labels
Why durability mattered so much…including the early dishwasher testing during R&D
What it took to launch and grow a brand before social media
The power of grassroots marketing: free press, word-of-mouth, early mom bloggers, and later social platforms
The real-life cost of entrepreneurship for moms: late nights, sacrifices, and aligning co-founders
What Julie’s “self-care season” really looked like while raising six kids
Learn more about Julie at https://mabelslabels.com
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome
02:03 Meet Julie Cole
07:14 From Basement R&D to Launch: Building an Early E‑Commerce Brand
13:31 Tips for Moms with a Business Idea
17:03 Self‑Care Reality Check
22:46 Raising Independent Kids: Chores, Responsibility & ‘Don’t Do It For Them’
30:35 The ‘Mother Load’: Invisible Labor, Decision Fatigue & Workplace Flexibility
36:51 What She’s Most Proud Of: Role Modeling, Culture & Building a Company Community
39:37 Advice for Moms: Find Your People, Curate Social Media & Take the Next Step
41:09 Closing Thoughts
 
CHECK OUT OUR BRAND PARTNERS for this episode.
The Parenting 411 - Feeling spiritually drained or running on empty? The Ministry of Mom Experience is a faith-centered day designed to help moms reset, refuel, and reconnect—while gaining practical parenting tools you can use right away. Get the details at https://www.ministryofmom.com
Chewy – Keep your pet well-fed, well-dressed, and most of all, well loved with all the things you need at Chewy. Shop here: https://bit.ly/4nVp7Sv
**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks
👍 If this episode helps you, please like, subscribe, and share with a mom who’s carrying too much.
#MotherLoad #momLife #parentingSupport #Branding #Entrepreneur #workingMoms #TheParenting411Podcast

Can AI Help Stressed Parents? - Real Talk about Managing Family Life

Feeling overwhelmed by the invisible mental load of parenting?   Appointments. Email.   School updates.  Birthday parties. And the pressure to “do it all”? In this episode of The Parenting 411 Podcast, I talk with Amy Briggs, a pediatric speech-language pathologist, mom, and creator of Aviva, an AI-powered scheduling assistant built to help families reclaim time, reduce stress, and stay present.
Amy shares what she witnessed in families’ homes post-pandemic: rising standards, constant guilt, and moms apologizing for not keeping up. We unpack executive functioning (your brain’s “conductor”), why scheduling is emotional, and how practical support can bring you back to connection and joy. Amy also addresses common concerns about AI, including privacy and control.
Learn more about Amy Briggs and Aviva at https://www.withaviva.com/
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome + Ministry of Mom invite01:06 Invisible mental load + meet Amy Briggs08:06 Executive functioning for parents14:08 Why scheduling triggers anxiety20:59 Can AI reduce parental stress?23:48 How Aviva works for real family life26:11 4 hours back + fewer dropped balls29:24 “No trophy for doing it all”35:07 Closing + community invite 
 
Check out our brand partners for this episode:
 
The Parenting 411: Motherhood can be beautiful and heavy at the same time. The Ministry of Mom Experience is a space for moms to breathe, connect, and be renewed—spiritually and emotionally. Grab your copy:  https://www.mothersworkthebook.com 
Ulta – Dermalogica Moms can keep their skin refreshed with Phyto Nature Firming Serum by Dermalogica. Grab yours from Ulta with link: mavely.app.link/e/d1yGDmi0CXb
 
Don’t forget to sign up for The Ministry of Mom Experience (Washington, DC) — May 2: A faith-centered day to reset and walk away with practical parenting tools and encouragement. Register at https://www.ministryofmom.com
 
**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks
 
If this episode helps you, please like, subscribe, and share with a mom who’s carrying too much.
 
#mentalLoad #momLife #parentingSupport #executiveFunctioning #familyScheduling #workingMoms #TheParenting411Podcast

The New Reality with Money After Divorce

For this conversation, I just had to bring Donna Cates back. You'll recall she's a financial expert and certified divorce financial analyst who knows her stuff. Our conversation is short but loaded with nuggets divorcing moms need to know. We talk about the emotional and practical impacts of divorce on children, focusing on how parents can manage financial disparities and communicate effectively to maintain stability for their kids.
Donna offers insights on handling alimony and child support, emphasizing the importance of predictability and creating positive experiences. The discussion highlights tools like Our Family Wizard to facilitate co-parenting communication. Tune in for valuable advice on leading with wisdom and fairness during challenging times.
Connect with Donna:
• Website: MoneyMattersWealth.com
• Social: Money Matters Wealth Solutions (and “Donna Cates”)
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome
00:33 Special Invitation: Ministry of Mom Experience
01:06 Introducing Financial Expert Donna Cates
01:53 Discussing Lifestyle Adjustments with Children
04:20 Understanding Child Support and Alimony
07:19 Ongoing Practices for Co-Parenting
08:44 Financial Truths Children Need to Hear
10:51 Connecting with Donna Cates
13:11 Final Thoughts
#KidsAndDivorce #CoParenting #EmotionalWellbeing #PeacefulParenting #DoItForTheKids
The Parenting 411: Motherhood can be beautiful and heavy at the same time. The Ministry of Mom Experience is a space for moms to breathe, connect, and be renewed—spiritually and emotionally. Learn more: https://www.ministryofmom.com
Ulta - Dermalogica:   Moms can keep their skin refreshed with Phyto Nature Firming Serum by Dermalogica. Grab yours from Ulta with link: https://bit.ly/4nj6Ezd
**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks
#DivorceFinancialPlanning #DivorceSupport #WomenAndMoney #SingleMomSupport #CoParenting #ChildSupport #529Plan #FinancialEmpowerment #DivorceAdvice #TheParenting411Podcast
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YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheParenting411 

Divorce and Money Matters

Divorce can feel like the ground shifts under your feet—emotionally and financially. In this episode of The Parenting 411 Podcast, I talk with Donna Cates, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), about the money decisions that can shape your next chapter—and your child’s future. Donna breaks down the most common financial blind spots women face during divorce, what to gather before negotiating anything, and how to stay practical when emotions are running high.
You’ll also hear smart guidance around child-related expenses, child support realities, 529 college savings, lifestyle changes, and how to find support even when you feel you “can’t afford it.”
What You’ll Learn
• The #1 financial blind spot women face early in divorce
• Why the person who initiates divorce often has an advantage—and how to catch up
• The key documents to gather (and why doing it early can save attorney fees)
• How to manage emotions without letting them derail financial decisions
• Child support vs. “real life” kid expenses: extracurriculars, tutoring, trips, instruments, etc.
• How to protect your child’s future through smart planning (including 529 accounts)
• The truth about maintaining the same lifestyle after divorce—and what to do instead
• Practical ways to pay for professional support Key Takeaways
• Don’t negotiate in the dark. Knowing what you own, owe, earn, and spend changes everything.
• Divorce is emotional—but your decisions must be informed.
• Put kids’ extras in writing. Understand that child support often covers basics only.
• Plan for two households. Two fridges, two sets of clothes, duplicated costs—it adds up fast.
• Support exists. Donna shares resources, including a free virtual workshop for women.
Connect with Donna:
• Website: MoneyMattersWealth.com
• Social: Money Matters Wealth Solutions (and “Donna Cates”)
Chapters
00:00 Welcome to the Parenting 411 Podcast
00:33 Special Invitation: Ministry of Mom Experience
01:06 Navigating Divorce: Emotional and Financial Challenges
01:49 Introducing Donna Cates: Financial Guidance for Women
02:55 Understanding Financial Blind Spots in Divorce
06:16 Gathering Key Financial Documents
14:44 Protecting Your Children's Financial Future
21:18 Common Mistakes in Maintaining Lifestyle Post-Divorce
24:08 First Steps to Gain Clarity and Confidence
26:44 Resources and Support for Women
31:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
Check out our brand partners for this episode:
 
The Parenting 411:
The Ministry of Mom Experience Motherhood can be beautiful and heavy at the same time. The Ministry of Mom Experience is a space for moms to breathe, connect, and be renewed—spiritually and emotionally. Learn more: https://www.ministryofmom.com
 
Ulta: Dermalogica Moms can keep their skin refreshed with Phyto Nature Firming Serum by Dermalogica. Grab yours from Ulta with link: https://bit.ly/4nj6Ezd
 
**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks 
 
#DivorceFinancialPlanning #DivorceSupport #WomenAndMoney #SingleMomSupport #CoParenting #ChildSupport #529Plan #FinancialEmpowerment #DivorceAdvice #TheParenting411Podcast
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Let's stay connected:
Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/
IG: http://www.instagram.com/the_parenting_411
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theparenting411
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@TheParenting411
 

Wellness for Parents in a Wired World

In this episode, I discuss navigating the complexities of modern motherhood and maintaining wellness in a technology-driven world. I share my personal experiences and offer valuable tips for parents on how to embrace technology without letting it overwhelm your lives. My key points include the importance of setting boundaries, leveraging technology as a tool for convenience, protecting family privacy, and balancing screen time with offline activities. By the end of the episode, you will gain insight into making technology an ally in their wellness journey. 
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
01:00 Embracing Technology in Parenting
01:51 The Evolution of Technology in Our Lives
03:45 Managing Technology for Family Wellness
05:55 Setting Boundaries with Technology
08:07 Balancing Screen Time and Real Life
08:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
Check out our Brand Partner for this episode:
Columbia:  Columbia – Whether you’re bundling up or peeling a few layers. Columbia has you covered no matter the weather!  You’ll find what you need right here:  https://bit.ly/3K2fxiV
 
The Parenting 411:  Join us for The Ministry of Experience on May 2 in Washington, DC. 
Click here for more information:  https://www.ministryofmom.com
Want to sponsor?  Click here:  https://www.ministryofmom.com/sponsors
 
#WellnessinAWiredWorld #ParentingInTheDigitalAge #MentalHealth #SelfCare #TechLifeBalance #ParentingTips #TheParenting411 #TheParenting411Podcast
 
 

Breaking Generational Patterns for Intentional Parenting Today

For this conversation, I sit down with licensed professional counselor and intuitive healer Marsha Evans to discuss the complexities of parenting and the importance of breaking unhealthy generational cycles. We dive into the pressures parents face, particularly in highly competitive environments, and offers practical advice on how to let children evolve into their true selves. We also talk about the power of family systems, handling teenage rebellion, and the importance of parents doing the inner work to avoid passing down harmful patterns. Marsha also introduces tools like genograms to help parents understand their family history and offers actionable steps for creating a healthier, more intentional family dynamic.
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome 02:15 Letting Your Child Evolve
05:48 Understanding Your Child's World
08:46 Generational Patterns and Family Systems
17:23 Creating a Parenting Philosophy
27:20 Recognizing and Embracing Your Child's Personality
35:21 The Impact of Parental Background on Parenting
37:16 Creating New Family Patterns and Legacies
43:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents
49:28 Conclusion and Additional Resources
 
Check out our BRAND PARTNERS for this episode:
Chewy – Keep your pet well-fed, well-dressed, and most of all, well loved with all the things you need at Chewy. Shop here: https://bit.ly/4nVp7Sv
The Parenting 411 - Mother’s Work is never done. My mini motherhood memoir shares gems I’ve learned as a mom from the toddler years to young adulthood. Grab a free copy PLUS bonuses at http://www.mothersworkthebook.com
**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let's stay connected:
Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/
IG: http://www.instagram.com/the_parenting_411
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theparenting411
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheParenting411 
 
#GenerationalHealing #ConsciousParenting #BreakTheCycle #ParentingWithPurpose #FamilySystems #IntentionalParenting #ParentingWisdom #RaisingWholeChildren #InnerWorkForParents #TheParenting411 #TheParenting411Podcast

When to Worry: A Parental Guide to Child Emergencies

In this episode, I welcome Dr. Kailey Buller, a double board-certified physician in Emergency and Family Medicine and a mom of two, to discuss common childhood illnesses and injuries. Dr. Buller provides invaluable insights on when to seek emergency care versus managing at home, shares the ABCs of emergency situations, and explains common scenarios parents face, such as handling fevers, injuries, and respiratory issues. She also highlights her decision chart and ABC guide for simplifying those critical, anxiety-filled moments. Additionally, We share personal anecdotes, advice on preparedness, and an emphasis on equipping parents with the knowledge to confidently navigate their child's health crises.
 
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to the Parenting 411 Podcast
01:23 Introducing Dr. Kailey Buller
02:41 Common Parental Concerns: Injuries and Illnesses
07:23 Recognizing Serious Symptoms: The ABCs
11:19 Managing Fevers and When to Seek Help
13:53 Emergency Room Visits: What Parents Need to Know
15:00 Understanding Lacerations and When to Seek Help
17:29 Concussion Protocols and Head Injuries
23:32 Top Symptoms That Require Immediate ER Visits
25:13 Final Thoughts and Resources for Parents
 
Check out our BRAND PARTNERS for this episode:
Walgreen’s - Stay on top of cold and flu season by stocking up on tried and true remedies your children will need. No more stuffy noses and nagging coughs with Mucinex for Children’s Cough and Congestion. Just click this link to stock up now: https://bit.ly/3KXP9H6
Walmart – Step out in style with Sofia Vergara Flares. Sometimes, casual; sometimes, Chic. Always comfortable. Always cool. Slip into a pair. Click this link: https://bit.ly/4oVqwZH
 
**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks
 
Click these links for resources from Dr. Kailey Buller
ER Flowchart (under 1yr old) https://www.vitalswithdrbuller.com/infant-er-flowchart
ER Worthy Issues (under 1yr old) https://www.vitalswithdrbuller.com/infant-injury-guide
ER Flowchart ( above 1yr old) https://www.vitalswithdrbuller.com/er-flowchart
ER Worthy Issues (above 1yr old) https://www.vitalswithdrbuller.com/child-injury-guide
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Let's stay connected: Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/
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Raising Whole Humans: Identity, Letting Go, and Parenting Young Adults

In this episode, I welcome award-winning actress, career coach, and motivational speaker, Lydia Nicole, to delve into the journey of parenting young adults. Lydia shares her personal experiences of balancing a demanding career in the entertainment industry while raising her daughter. She discusses the critical lessons she learned about maintaining identity beyond achievements, the importance of mentoring over controlling, and the value of reinvention without losing oneself. Lydia also highlights the significance of community support and intentional parenting. This powerful conversation is filled with insights and practical tips for mothers in every stage of their parenting journey.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Welcome 03:21 The Importance of a Supportive Village06:00 Parenting Without a Manual10:46 Balancing Career and Parenting16:13 Challenges of Raising a Child in the Entertainment Industry18:10 The Importance of Child Advocacy on Set22:51 Instilling Team Spirit in Children23:48 Building Confidence from a Young Age25:12 Teaching Responsibility and Independence28:03 Navigating School Challenges31:11 Letting Go as a Parent32:01 Legacy and Mentorship39:04 Following Lydia Nicole's Work39:47 Final Thoughts on Parenting
Check out our BRAND PARTNERS for this episode: 
Columbia – Whether you’re bundling up or peeling a few layers. Columbia has you covered no matter the weather!  You’ll find what you need right here:  https://bit.ly/3K2fxiV
Mother’s Work is never done! My mini motherhood memoir shares gems I’ve learned as a mom from the toddler years to young adulthood.  Grab a free copy PLUS bonuses at http://www.mothersworkthebook.com  
**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks 
#TheParenting411 #RaisingWholeHumans #IntentionalParenting #WorkingMoms#ParentingYoungAdults #TheParenting411Podcast
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Let's stay connected:
Website: http://www.theparenting411.com/ IG: http://www.instagram.com/the_parenting_411Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/theparenting411YouTube:  http://www.youtube.com/@TheParenting411

Raising Readers: Building Confidence Through Literacy

Ever worried your child isn't a reader or is quietly falling behind? This conversation will speak right to your heart. Join me as I sit down with Dr. Andrew Vassall (Dr. V), an educator, children's author, literacy consultant, and 2023 Teacher of the Year semi-finalist. With over 20 years in the classroom and his own experience navigating a learning disability, Dr. V shares what really helps underachieving and discouraged readers find their footing and their voice. Discover how diverse, relatable stories can change how children see themselves, and learn simple things families can do at home to build confidence, competence, and a lifelong love of reading. Learn more about Dr. V at https://drandrewvassall.com. 
 
CHAPTERS
0:00 Introduction & Welcome
1:00 Understanding the Literacy Gap
6:00 What Parents Need to Know About Reading Development
13:48 Building Trust with Struggling Readers
16:53 The Power of Representation in Books
19:33 Navigating Book Bans & DEI Challenges
22:40 The Black Crayon: Self-Identity for All Kids
24:30 Parent & Student Reactions to The Black Crayon
26:13 Practical Tips for Parents of Struggling Readers
37:26 Daily Habits for Raising Strong Readers
39:41 The Foundation: Trust & Communication
44:33 Integrating Reading Into Daily Life
50:34 Closing & Resources
 
Check out our BRAND PARTNERS for this episode:
Highlights – Boost your little readers’ skills with the I Can Read Book Club presented by Highlights Magazine! Just click here: https://bit.ly/45c1TRU
The Parenting 411 presents…The Ministry of Mom Experience. Join us for a one-of-kind gathering of moms seeking deeper alignment of their faith with their parenting journey. Learn more at http://www.ministryofmom.com/interest
**For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks
#ReadingDevelopment #LiteracyMatters #StrugglngReaders #ParentingTips #ChildrensBooks #EarlyLiteracy #ConfidentReaders #DiverseBooks #RepresentationMatters #ReadingStrategies #LiteracyGap #ParentingSupport #ChildDevelopment #ReadingAtHome #EquityInEducation #SocialEmotionalLearning #GraphicNovels #VocabularyBuilding #ReadAloud #FamilyLiteracy #ReadingMotivation #ChildrensAuthors #BlackAuthors #LiteracyEducation #TheParenting411Podcast #TheParenting411 #DrAndrewVassall #TheBlackCrayon #RaisingReaders
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Digital Detox: Reconnecting Teens with the Real World

What happens to your relationship with your teen when screens start replacing real connection?
In this episode, I sit down with youth development expert Kirsten McCormick for a timely and deeply practical conversation about helping teens reconnect beyond their devices.
We dig into what’s really going on beneath the surface of constant screen use—and how parents can intentionally guide teens toward confidence, resilience, and authentic relationships in the real world. Kirsten shares insights from her immersive Teen Connect Adventures programs and her upcoming book, Unplugged to Reconnect, offering concrete ways families can counter digital overload with meaningful, engaging alternatives.
You’ll walk away with:
Practical strategies to help teens build real-world social skills
A fresh perspective on balancing technology without constant power struggles
Encouragement to parent with purpose while strengthening values and connection at home
This episode is a powerful reminder that unplugging isn’t about taking something away—it’s about giving our teens something better.
I’d love to hear from you—what has helped your family unplug and truly connect with your teens? Share your thoughts and keep the conversation going.
#ParentingTeens #TeenConnection #DigitalBalance #ParentingWithPurpose #RaisingResilientTeens #DigitalDetoxForTeens #TheParenting411Podcast #CarolMuleta
 
CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Helping Teens Build Real-World Connections
02:47 - Kirsten's Journey into Teen Outreach
06:21 - Supporting Teens in Building Connections
09:10 - Cultural Differences in Teen Technology Use
11:19 - Influence of Parental Tech Use on Teens
19:57 - Effects of Passive Entertainment on Teens
23:08 - Navigating Peer Pressure to Stay Offline
26:30 - Gender Differences in Technology Use
32:00 - School's Role in Supporting Teens
38:08 - Following Kirsten's Work
38:50 - Final Thoughts on Teen Engagement
 
Check out our BRAND PARTNERS for this episode:
ProPicks by The Parenting 411Looking for trusted tools that help you unplug your teen and spark real connection? Explore ProPicks by The Parenting 411—my curated collection of books, games, and resources designed to strengthen family relationships and support purposeful parenting. Visit www.propicksbyp411.com to shop with confidence.
 
Mother’s Work: Pearls of Wisdom & Gems from My JourneyIf you’re craving encouragement, perspective, and faith-filled wisdom for the ups and downs of motherhood, Mother’s Work: Pearls of Wisdom & Gems from My Journey was written for you. Discover the reflections and lessons that anchored me through every season of parenting at www.mothersworkthebook.com.
 
For more of our Favorite Finds for Moms and Families, click here: https://mave.ly/p411picks