Scrub Caps & Sippy Cups

Today, so many people of all ages are dealing with burnout and mental health issues. Children are met with high expectations that are often too much to bear. Adults struggle to stay motivated in careers they are not passionate about. Learning how to find comfort and get through hard times is essential, especially amidst a global pandemic, but so is listening to your internal voice when it tells you it’s time to make a change.   In this episode, we speak with life coach and musician Morgan Beard about her journey through depression, job burnout, and making a transformational move across the country. Morgan shares how helpful therapy has been to her, what lead her to art therapy as a profession, and eventually to becoming a life coach. We also talk about her new therapeutic pop EP titled ‘Ele.mental’.   Discussed in this episode: BurnoutDepressionTherapySelf-expression in the healing processLetting kids be kidsInternalizationFinding comfortFeeling isolatedSharing emotions with othersMaking a cross-country moveGetting quiet to hear your internal voiceThe difference between a therapist and a life coachAnd other topics...   About Morgan Beard: Morgan Beard is a creative life coach who works with clients both online and in person. She earned her Masters in Art Therapy from the School of Visual Arts in New York City in 2017. After graduation, she worked in a nursing home as an art therapist. The work environment was toxic and depressing, which lead to burnout.   In 2018, she moved from New York City to Los Angeles with a mission to start over. Eventually, she started a life coaching business, where she is thriving and happier than ever. She decided to pursue her first passion, which is music. She is working on releasing a therapeutic pop EP titled ‘Ele.mental’, which is all about her personal transformation as translated through pop music.   Connect with Morgan Beard: Website: Morgan Beard - Life CoachMusic Website: MuunieFacebook: Morgan Beard - Life CoachMusic Facebook: @iammuunieInstagram: @iammunnieYouTube: MuunieLinkedIn: Morgan BeardSpotify: Muunie   Connect with the hosts: Instagram: @heysmartmommasFollow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injectorFacebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy CupsEmail us: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com   Other Resources Mentioned: Book: The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy   If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

In this episode, we speak with Jason Clawson and get a dad’s perspective for the first time on this podcast. He shares how his family took a horrible tragedy and turned it into something good.   Four years ago, Jason felt like his life was going right and that he and his family were living the life they were meant to live. They were building their dream house, he was a clinical director at a recovery program, his young boys were thriving, and his 40-year old brother finally got married. His wife had also lost 100 lbs. after having weight loss surgery and was feeling amazing.   A month after his brother’s wedding, his wife found a lump in her stomach that was growing. They began a journey of talking to doctors about what was going on, and they were stumped. Their life was on hold as they waited for answers. One day, they received a call that his wife should consult an oncology surgeon because she had spots throughout her body.   His wife underwent exploratory surgery with a partial hysterectomy where the surgeon found a large lump near her colon. The surgeon told Jason that his wife had stage four colon cancer.   This moment was life-changing. He couldn’t believe that this was happening to them. His mind began to race about how their family would navigate this. The surgeon told him something that he will never forget, that cancer has a way of enhancing your life and you will get through this. He was stunned in the moment and angry about this for years.   This experience was the hardest that they would have to go through in their lives. As he is going through this, he had to show up for clients at work and be the best for them. When he got home, he took care of his wife and children. By the end of the night, he was exhausted. But he knew that this is what he was supposed to do, no matter how hard it was.   Even though his wife was given two to three years to live, nine months later his wife passed away. When the funeral was over, he realized that this was the time that he needed his family to rally around him and support him. He and his five and eleven-year-old boys were all struggling and he felt like there was nothing he could do to make everything better.   Jason decided that he wasn’t going to wait around until things got better. He wanted to show his children how to get through this experience and to grieve in a healthy and happy way. He texted 13 people in his circle and shared his struggles and asked for help. They showed up and wanted to help him.   After this, life became a little easier. They created a system where he could reach out for support with just one word. His support team was grateful for the opportunity to help him heal and checked in with him regularly. He realized that people wanted to help but just didn’t know how to do so.   He ended up quitting his job for the summer and dedicated it to creating happy memories with his boys. They created a bucket list of activities and one of those was putting together sunshine baskets that they could deliver to anyone who had lost a loved one. They helped others grieve while they grieved too.   Today, they have delivered sunshine baskets in 24 states and created a cause called Giving Sunshine. They launched a Kickstarter so they can reach more people with what Jason calls “therapy in a box”.   Discussed in this episode: Going through difficult experiencesChecking in on the caregiverSupporting family after a deathChildren struggling with lossAsking for helpCreating a healing circleBeing vulnerableLooking for opportunities to helpBeing a hybrid dadSunshine basketsLooking for happy thingsPaying it forwardCommunity and connectionHow males deal with emotionAnd other topics...   About Jason Clawson:   Jason Clawson is the co-owner of Giving Sunshine, which is on a mission to help support, heal, and get others to connect with their own healing teams. Giving sunshine provides therapeutic care packages for those going through difficult experiences. He is a licensed therapist, a widower, and the father to two boys.   Connect with Jason Clawson: Giving Sunshine WebsiteKickstarter for Giving SunshineFacebook: Giving SunshineInstagram: @givingsunshinedailyLinkedIn: Jason Clawson   Connect with the hosts: Instagram: @heysmartmommasFollow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea, @ellenlauletta, @stl_injectorFacebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy CupsEmail us: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com   If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Michelle Purta is a marriage coach for moms and she is on the show discussing common issues moms face in marriage, figuring out what exactly you want in your marriage, gender roles, and more!  It's not always easy to figure out what you want in your marriage, or what you should expect from your spouse. And if things are going wrong, it can be tough to know where to turn for help. Michelle is here this week to help clear some things up. She knows how to help couples communicate better and figure out what they want from their marriages. So whether you're currently married or single and hoping to be married someday, tune in and join the conversation! We promise it'll be worth your while. About Michelle Michelle is a married mom of 3, California native, and a life and marriage coach for moms. She supports moms who feel disconnected in their marriage enjoy their husbands again through communication skills, healing, human design, and breathwork. www.instagram.com/michellepurtacoaching www.facebook.com/michellepurtamarriagecoach   Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas

Moms, we are busy! Am I right? Between getting the kids to school on time, making dinner, and taking care of a million other things, it's hard to find the time to go to the store. Amazon Prime has made it a lot easier for us moms to get what we need without leaving the house. But is Amazon Prime worth it?  This week we are talking about the pros and cons of using Amazon Prime instead of going to the store. We are also talking about store pick-up and giving you the perspectives of Laci, Ellen, and Crystal, who all have different views. We think you will relate to this episode, and we’d like to keep this conversation going with your input! Comment on our socials and reply to the story polls. You can also email us! Let's connect! Follow the girls on Instagram - @mslacilynch @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas

We have an awesome show for you this week! Jennifer Anderson from Kids Eat in Color is here. She is talking about all things feeding kids! Jennifer started out on Instagram wanting to connect with other moms who were struggling to feed their kids a well rounded diet. Her community grew and so did her knowledge, and before she knew it she had 1.6 million followers!  How did my kid become a picky eater despite my best effort with baby-led weaning? Jennifer drops a truth bomb on us…its a myth. Laci wonders why her kids are picky eaters and it might just have something to do with genetics. We love Jennifer’s explanation of this! What is an extremely picky eater? Crystal tells the story about her daughter not eating anything at preschool for a year! Jennifer explains how to help a child branch out from the few foods they will eat to be able to adapt to new foods. One day they like a food, the next they don’t, the foods can’t touch, the foods need to be mixed…help!  I had a great eater and now they are two and won’t eat anything! Do you have a healthy foundation? It starts with taking the pressure off of your kid. Instead, focus on coming together and giving your kid the food or foods they will eat. Keep the pressure low by having the new food on the table. It's there, they see it, and eventually, they might try it! What is an age appropriate amount of time at the table? Hint - it’s probably short. Jennifer’s tip is to start with a timer. Set it to a small amount of time and move the timer up to find the max attention span. When you’re done, you’re done! The dreaded snacking… Ellen discusses her struggles with snacks at home, what she offers, and how this interferes with mealtime. What’s the best solution? Jennifer breaks this down… its a cultural thing in the U.S. and in fact too much snacking can interfere with their natural hunger cues. Tune in to hear her best tips!  Jennifer talks about the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program and how this public health initiative is helping families thrive. She addresses some common misconceptions about WIC and how this program can be best utilized.  What is a food desert? Simply put, it is a lack of access to a variety of healthy foods. This can be urban or rural. Jennifer breaks down the dynamics that make up a food desert and explains the misconceptions around poverty.  Everyone is sick. It’s that time of the year. How do I keep my kid as healthy as possible? Jennifer talks about how important hydration is. She explains that kids will lose their appetite when they are sick, but keeping them hydrated is key. Their appetite will come back. Ease back into their normal diet and avoid any special diet or new foods. Hear her opinion on elderberry!  So many nuggets of info on this episode!    Follow Jennifer for more tips: Website: https://kidseatincolor.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kids.eat.in.color/   Freebies: Mom's budget-friendly guide to getting picky eaters to try new foods Baby-led weaning is the next 'breast is best,' but it's not the only option. Here are 3 tips for introducing solids to your child. Baby-Led Weaning is Becoming the New 'Breast is Best'—But It's Time to Squash Both   About Jennifer Anderson: Jennifer Anderson is a registered dietitian with a master of science in public health from Johns Hopkins School of Public Health. She is the founder and CEO of Kids Eat In Color - the leading resource for helping get kids on the path to eating better without the mealtime battles. About Kids Eat in Color Jennifer Anderson is the founder of Kids Eat in Color. Kids Eat in Color is now a team of experts that helps parents end food battles and teach their kids to try new foods. Jennifer has been featured on Good Morning America, Insider, Parents giving perspective and highlighting social discrepancies as it pertains to access to food and resources and the harm of misinformation in child nutrition. The Better Bites course is our online program for parents who want to decrease their stress and get their child on the road to eating more foods.   Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector   Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com   Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups   Instagram: @heysmartmommas

Hey moms and parents! Bonnie Lenz is here, coming to talk with you about something important. It's something that many of us struggle with, and it can be tough to break the cycles of bad parenting we may have grown up with. But it's definitely worth trying to do better for our kids. So let's get started! There is a lot of pressure on parents to do things "the right way." But what if the right way isn't actually working? In this episode, we'll be discussing how mainstream parenting techniques aren't always practical and how alternative methods could be more beneficial for families.  Bonnie is a survivor of child abuse and emotional abuse as an adult. She has three amazing children with her supportive husband Cory. Bonnie’s children are her best teachers and they have inspired a lot of her healing and passions. After years of healing, and with loving support, Bonnie was able to set a freeing boundary in 2020, and shortly after that, she was inspired to create The Sunflower Parent Movement which launched on Mother’s Day of last year. She wanted to help those who are parenting break unhealthy cycles, raise awareness about evidence-based parenting, and advocate for abuse awareness and prevention.  She has come to believe that conscious, respectful, and positive parenting practices hold the key to ending generational cycles of trauma that contribute to abuse prevention. Bonnie is a Registered Nurse and wanted to help others, but was being a people pleaser, blamed herself, and found that nursing took a big emotional burden on her. She turned gears and started a nonprofit in the hopes of helping others through counseling, coaching, and various resources.  Mainstream parenting goes against what may be developmentally appropriate. Bonnie explains how there is a lack of understanding surrounding childhood development and parenting through those stages. Bonnie tells us that mainstream parenting isn’t backed by evidence nor is it effective. The ladies discuss spanking and how using spanking can be a cycle as it’s passed down from previous generations.  Bonnie discusses looking for the unmet need in your child - creating safety (remove the child from the situation), observing what you see, validating feelings, and fulfilling the need that the child seeks. She also gives us some great tips on co-regulation! Ellen explores her childhood and relates that to how she is a parent today. She tells how her culture didn’t allow emotion and how she has changed that with her kids. Bonnie adds how we can easily react poorly when we as adults aren’t regulated. She encourages us that it’s ok to feel.  Crystal and Laci mention how this episode has brought up a lot of thoughts and questions related to their childhood. Perhaps it will do the same for you and be a starting point to great discussions. We would love to hear your feedback! Messages us on IG.   Follow Bonnie! https://www.instagram.com/thesunflowerparentmovement/   https://www.facebook.com/thesunflowerparentmovement   Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector   Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com   Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups   Instagram: @heysmartmommas   Twitter: @heysmartmommas   If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Do you ever feel like you need a break from the constant go, go, go? We know we do. And what's better than taking a break to do nothing? It sounds counterproductive, but when was the last time you just sat around and let your mind wander? Probably not recently, if at all. We're so busy nowadays that taking a moment for ourselves is a rarity. But it's so important. So on this episode, we are joined by Jessie Kanzer to discuss her new book, The Art of Doing Nothing, what that actually entails, how her book parallels the “Great Resignation”, the pandemic, and share some mindset tips to combat overwhelm. You are going to end this episode with a new mindset and the inspiration to get you out of that rut you’re in! Get ready to relax and de-stress! Jessie Kanzer was born in the former soviet union. She set out on a spiritual search after losing everything and starting over. Traveled to various countries at eight years old before coming to the United States. She bottled up and buried emotions at an early age. This soon manifested into an eating disorder. She discusses how she tried to change and reinvent herself and it didn’t work. She pushed on and graduated from college in an area she could have cared less about, but Summa Cume Laude of course.  Her turning point…a major car accident. She picked up the Tao Te Ching from her bedside table. An ancient Chinese philosophy and reinvented herself following the car accident.  Jessie discusses how hitting rock bottom is an opportunity to begin again. She tells her story, invites us to read her book, and will leave you feeling hopeful and inspired to take on that next challenge or to simply navigate this chaotic time we all find ourselves in.  Discussed in this episode: The Great Resignation. How her book is helping people through a period of major change in their lives.What is the Tao Te Ching? Jessie puts this book into perspective and makes it relevant to moms in the modern-day who need help with the day-to-day overwhelm and stress. Mindset shift best practices. Jessie's childhood in the Soviet Union and the parallel to the hustle culture we live in today. The lessons the pandemic has taught us.Leveling up and accomplishing goals.How to change from within to effect change in society. How Jessie’s new book fits the mold of Christianity and other religions.  We are bringing various angles, ideas, and takeaways to this week’s episode. We want to hear from you! Tell us what you liked, didn’t like, or maybe what you would like us to continue in a future episode. Who knows, we just might have Jessie back!   About Jessie Kanzar: Jessie Asya Kanzer was born in the Soviet Union. At the age of eight, she emigrated with her family to Brooklyn. She is a writer and former reporter and actress. Her work has appeared in the Washington Post, New York Daily News, Wall Street Journal, The Independent, the New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Huffington Post, Ravishly, and Romper. Jessie lives with her two daughters and husband in Dobbs Ferry, NY.   https://jessiekanzer.com/ https://www.facebook.com/JessieKanzer https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCI0_lGiZPq31VJ5w7hg7NuA  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessiekanzer/    Get her book here: Amazon   Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector   Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com   Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups   Instagram: @heysmartmommas   If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Moms, do you think there is a secret cure for your stress and overwhelm? Well, this week, Laci is here to discuss Brene Brown’s work on stress and overwhelm. Brene is a counselor, author and did a TedTalk in 2010 that is interesting and eye-opening for all moms.  Do you think there is a difference between stress and overwhelm? Laci reflects on these differences, and what you can do to separate these two issues we deal with as moms and how to combat them.  If you would like to listen to the entire Ted Talk, check out The Power of Vulnerability by Brene Brown on YouTube.  Knowing now that stress and overwhelm can be classified differently, how will you manage your stress of overwhelm? Share with us in our posts, DMs, or email us! Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Wow! This episode is jam packed with so many pearls of wisdom from the one and only Dr. April Brown. Dr. Brown (from her website www.draprilbrown.com) is a Licensed Mental Health Christian Counselor in Florida, Wisconsin, New York, and New Jersey. In addition, she is a Certified Relationship and Sex Therapist, Board Certified TeleMental Health Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a Qualified Clinical Supervisor. She has a thriving group practice called Cape Coral Therapists in Cape Coral, Florida where she specializes in anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationships, emotionally support animals, and distance counseling. Dr. April holds a Masters and a Specialist degree in Counseling and Human Systems and a Doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology. The ladies open up this episode discussing how we as mothers take on so much and carry the weight of the world. Isn’t that the truth! Dr. Brown reminds us that in order for us to improve intimacy, we first must focus our attention on self care. Listen to her talk about her best tips for self care! We can get lost in our day to day and lose that spark we once had with our partner. Dr. Brown and the ladies talk about how to get that spark back. Here are a few tips:  Self-love (affirmations, time for yourself) Date night (don’t talk about problems) Slow life down How can you change your current intimacy routine? Step one - get your partner on board and start the conversation. Seems simple enough right? Dr. Brown lays out her best steps for making this happen. Hint - it takes time! Dr. Brown reminds us that sex should be looked at as fun and not a chore. How can you remove your thoughts before intimacy? This starts with mindfulness. We often think that the act of sex alone is what it’s all about and it’s not! Laci leads the ladies on a discussion about mindfulness and how our minds flow through what we are thinking. Our minds control how we feel! Mindfulness activity - take a Hershey kiss and go through the 5 senses. Get your whole body involved. This will help you understand how to connect and be present with your partner.    How to be intimate with your partner when you are in a busy season in your life. Shower together or find a moment to connect without distractions.  Put down the phone. Learn how to talk your partner’s language - not into feelings? Translate the issue to a topic they are familiar with.  Crystal brings up a good point that the girls go in-depth on - why do we shit on those the closest to us?  Ellen talks about modeling relationships for our children and a popular celebrity media storm caused by this way of thinking. It’s up for debate - good or bad? Let us know!  The ladies close out this episode talking about the expectations surrounding sex. How to have a conversation with your partner, taking care of yourself, and planning time to be with your partner. This is a must listen to episode filled with tons of takeaways!    How to find Dr. Brown www.draprilbrown.com  Books- Improving Intimacy series on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Improving-Intimacy-Self-Spirit-Spouse-ebook/dp/B093TBLKNF Retreat - taking couples to Costa Rica and Florida  Personalized counseling - see her website for more info   Ways to connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/draprilbrown/ Dr. April T. Brown, Counseling Services Vacation Counseling Couples Retreats Bringing Intimacy Back Podcast https://www.instagram.com/bringingintimacyback/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.aprilb/ VacaCounseling Bringing Intimacy Back  Let's connect! Follow the girls on Instagram - @mslacilynch @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas Twitter: @heysmartmommas

Francie Todd joins Crystal and Ellen to tell her family’s powerful story following the diagnosis of down syndrome for one of her sons. Fancie has fraternal twins, one typical and one with down syndrome. She is on the show this week to share her journey with IVF, duodenal atresia with baby A, and the struggles she and her family faced following delivery.    In this episode you will hear:   What it was like to have a baby in the NICU at the start of the pandemic.How to transition to home with a newborn while having one baby still at the hospital. What life was like in the early days and how Francie and her husband got through it.Emergency surgery and the threat of a hysterectomy.  Francie also talks about a very vulnerable moment and a turning point for her and Hall. She found a determination to get through whatever life threw at her—finding a new normal and finding the beauty in the journey. This is an episode you won’t want to miss. Truly an incredible story and we are honored Francie came on the show to share it!   About Francie Todd: I am a wife, mom, and CRNA. My family lives in Greenville, SC. I have fraternal twin boys, Hall and Barrett. Hall was diagnosed with Down Syndrome shortly after birth, while Barrett is typical. The boys are now 16 months old and quite busy. Although our journey is different than what we imagined it would look like, it has been an amazing journey.   Resources mentioned in this show: Bloom by Kelle Hampton Babies with Down Syndrome: A New Parents’ Guide by Susan Skallerup A Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome by Jen Jacob and Mardra Sikora    IG: fmtodd KIND (Kids Including & Nurturing Differences) - “Hoping we can make a difference in a few kids and letting them know that differences are ok” Francie Todd on her nonprofit KIND.  http://kindoftheupstate.org/  Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! Send a voice message to Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas Twitter: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Jenna Hua is the founder and CEO of Million Maker. A company dedicated to educating about and reducing, if not eliminating harmful toxins from our lives. Jenna is on the show today with Laci and Ellen to discuss the uses of toxins and plastics in our lives and healthcare and how it affects us, especially those trying to conceive. She is also giving us tools and resources that we can use today to reduce our toxin exposure. This is such an important topic because we all know someone with autism, ADHD, infertility, testicular cancer, breast cancer, and/or diabetes. All of these conditions have been linked to environmental toxins. This episode is packed with so much valuable information!    Jenna started in healthcare as a dietician. She grew frustrated that no one would listen to her about how these toxins we are exposed to every day affect us. She states that toxin exposure results in 70% of chronic disease risk vs 30% by genetics alone. Unfortunately, the healthcare and research world does not have a test to determine which environmental toxins could be impacting an individual’s health. Jenna suffered miscarriages, and her frustrations with not knowing how to deal with and fix any issues she had led her to found her company Million Maker that strives to help others with just that. Environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors are significant issues that must be discussed for the sake of our health, and Jenna is here today to get the word out!   Main products and chemicals discussed in this episode that are known hormone disruptors:    Top endocrine disrupters that impact fertility and what you can do about it.BPA: mimics estrogen, where your body will recognize and treat it as if it were estrogen. Plastic is the major culprit of BPA. Also, BPA-free does not mean it’s safe. Often manufacturers create a slight structure change, like BPF, and it is approved for sale. Avoid plastics and receipts altogether. BPA is known to cause infertility, child development issues, and decreases in-vitro fertilization (IVF) success.Phalates: a chemical that blocks testosterone. Mainly effects males. Decreases male sperm count and quality. Paraben: a preservative in beauty care products. It can be found in packaged foods and is not labeled as such. Oxybenzone is in sunscreen and can also be in food.Heavy metal- wash and soak your rice. Fish can be high in mercury and is greater in fatty fish.   Baby rice and cereal.  PFAS (Teflon)- a “forever chemical.” Not just in cookware but also in any weatherproofing materials and products. Green Policy Institute lists safe outdoor gear. Household and personal care items: shampoo, conditioner, detergent, and perfumes are the top disruptors. Water: a reverse osmosis system is best at filtering out toxins. Look for the NSF symbol. Please refer to Jenna’s site - www.millionmaker.com for a list of approved water filters.    Jenna’s product is a mail-in urine test. That’s it! Just fill out an exposure survey and mail that in with your urine sample, and in two weeks, you will get a personalized toxin report. Her company looks at every product you use, combines it with your urine sample of toxins to give you recommendations for a change you can make immediately.     Other resources to use to avoid toxins: EWG  Made Safe Midori Earth chrome extension.  Jenna has a list of curated products on her site (Million Maker) to help you get started.   About Jenna Hua: An environmental health scientist and dietitian by training, Jenna is passionate about the environment, public health, and everything food. Frustrated by the lack of data for how harmful chemicals (like BPA, phthalates, and parabens) from plastics and everyday products affect our health and clinical outcomes, and the absence of a personalized approach to mitigate harmful chemical exposures, Jenna set out on a mission to change these.   She founded Million Marker, a health-tech startup dedicated to empower everyone with the data and tools to determine how the products they use, the food they eat, the water they drink negatively or positively influence their health. Million Marker helps people understand what chemicals are inside of them—and then provides simple solutions for quickly reducing harmful chemicals through mail-in test kits, lifestyle audits, product recommendations, and counseling.    Dr. Hua is a US Fulbright Fellow and completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship with Stanford University’s School of Medicine.   Follow Jenna: www.twitter.com/million_marker https://www.facebook.com/MillionMarker https://www.linkedin.com/company/million-marker/   Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas Twitter: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Laci and Ellen welcome Tina Kloepping to the show this week to discuss mental health needs in young children. A topic she knows all too well as her daughter attempted suicide at 8 years old. We are very passionate about this topic, and we want to reach as many parents as possible. The information in this episode is relevant and actionable to identify, seek help and provide ongoing support to children with mental health needs.  Tina is a nurse anesthetist and previously held positions as an ICU nurse and paramedic. She lives in Minnesota with her husband and three daughters, two of which are twins. Tina shares her family’s story about mental health needs, care, and ongoing management of her daughters. She wants to get the message out about awareness and help normalize the discussion to save and support children and families in need.   Tina shares her story about her then 7 year old being anxious and how she was referred to a therapist at the pediatric office. She explains their struggles navigating care when the office discontinued seeing her daughter after her suicide attempt.  In this episode, you will hear: The struggles of navigating mental health care for a young childWhat is suicidal ideation, and can a child fully comprehend what it means to end life?What do you do if your child said they wish they weren’t alive anymore?What do you do if your child has a plan for ending their life?How can parents connect with siblings and address their needs too?How a culmination of events lead to Tina’s daughter attempting suicideQuestions for the practitioner in an inpatient settingTina’s resources, coping strategies for children, and the use of open-ended questions when speaking to your child  About Tina: I am a CRNA mom who has navigated mental health issues, including suicide attempts with my young girls. I want to talk about mental health and how to advocate for your kid’s wellbeing in a system that wants to ignore mental health needs. Connect with Tina on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tina.kloepping Tina’s Resources: Mayo Clinic video on asking the hard questions - https://youtu.be/3BByqa7bhto National and Local Hotlines/Resources: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/services-one-pager-2019.pdf  https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/  https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/  https://translifeline.org/ Local to MN - https://www.horizonhomes.org/south-central-mobile-crisis-team/ https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/SAMHSA_Digital_Download/PEP20-01-03-001.pdf Dr. Ross Greene: Books: The Explosive Child  Lost at School Lost and Found  Raising Human Beings https://livesinthebalance.org/our-solution/  https://drrossgreene.com/the-explosive-child.htm   Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com  Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups  Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas  Twitter: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

One year since Crystal started cancer treatment, she sits down with Laci and brings us up to date on what she has been experiencing and what’s to come. She has been undergoing radiation treatment and walks us through what it’s like. Unfortunately, during her treatment, she developed a complication related to the radiation that sent her to surgery again.  Crystal tells about what the future brings as far as cancer treatment. She feels getting cancer has changed her. Despite the hardships cancer has put on her and her family, she tells about how she is grateful and sees the world differently now. Crystal hates to see her family affected, and this has definitely been the lowest part of her journey. However, she plans to continue her effort in helping other women navigate their breast cancer diagnoses! Crystal was recently featured in Entrepreneurs Herald and had her story featured in the July issue, “Top 21 Inspiring Women to Look Out for in 2021.” She had the chance to tell her story about starting her aesthetics business and how she got her cancer diagnosis just three weeks later. Crystal has grown a successful business while juggling everything. She tells about how owning a business has kept her both focused and distracted while staying positive.  Laci talks about getting the kids ready to go back to school, going school shopping, and visiting the state parks in Minnesota. They plan on visiting all 75! Laci fills us in on what it’s like to go camping with a baby and no bathroom.  The previous episode with the Dr. Nurse Podcast mentioned during this episode: The Nursing Journey  Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas Twitter: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Beth Wilmes was 35 years old with a successful career and in the midst of motherhood when she discovered a lump in her breast. She requested a mammogram and biopsy and found out she indeed had breast cancer. Beth shares her incredible story with Crystal, Ellen, and Laci on this week’s episode of the Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups podcast. Listen as Beth tells about her journey and the inspiration behind the nonprofit she created called Faith Through Fire. A nonprofit organization devoted to mentoring women in their breast cancer journey.    Topics Discussed:   When you are told you have breast cancer. Crystal (diagnosed with breast cancer one year ago) and Beth discussed their experiences when they were told they had breast cancer for the first time.  Do you discuss your diagnosis with your kids or not? Beth chose not to tell her kids and Crystal did. Listen to their points of view and why they chose to tell or not to tell. Beth and her friend Sarah started a podcast called Besties with Breasties to help support other women facing a breast cancer diagnosis. Faith Through Fire - A mentorship program for the newly diagnosed to survivorship. Build A Bear Workshop - Providing a tangible thing to help children get through the really tough times.Navigating a cancer diagnosis with nurses and doctors and how nurses play a vital role in giving patients a plan for support.How to get involved to help those diagnosed with breast cancer. Seeing life differently as a cancer survivor.    Learn more about Beth’s organization, Faith Through Fire at www.faiththroughfire.org. Here you can learn more, get involved, and have a source to point others to. You can help keep this mentorship program alive through donations and by purchasing exclusive podcast content through Patreon. Visit the Faith Through Fire website for more information.  IG faiththroughfire FB Faith Through Fire Podcast - Besties with Breasties  Website - www.faiththroughfire.org   Beth Wilmes is a nonprofit founder, author, podcaster, and speaker. Her nonprofit for breast cancer patients is called Faith Through Fire (faiththroughfire.org) and its mission is to reduce the fear and anxiety that breast cancer patients feel and replace it with hope and a path toward thriving. She lives in St. Louis with her husband Gary, three children, and her dog Buddy.   Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Theresa Mitchell, a producer, mother, and survivor, is joined by Laci and Ellen this week discussing the black and brown community’s struggles regarding obstetric care in the United States. We want to bring awareness to infertility, infant loss, and miscarriages and that the U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate globally. Theresa is bringing hope and a clear mind to women in this struggle through her documentary.  When you suffer the loss of a baby, there is no formula or checklist to grieve and heal. Grief is such a unique journey that presents itself differently in each individual.  Life After Loss can be a roller coaster of emotions filled with anxiety, anger, sadness, and frustration. Life After Loss is a documentary to bring light and truth to the struggles faced by black and brown women as they quietly struggle through miscarriage, infant loss, and infertility.  Theresa Mitchell uses her story to create a documentary called Life After Loss. Theresa shares how she suffered three miscarriages and had her rainbow baby.  She discusses the struggles, complications, and inadequate care black and brown birthing people face in hospitals and wellness centers all over America and the world. Stay tuned for the news when Theresa’s documentary is released! We cannot wait for this to come out. Such an important issue that needs more awareness.  Follow Theresa’s journey: IG- https://www.instagram.com/jheneproductions/ Email address Jheneproductions@gmail.com FB- https://www.facebook.com/jheneproductions?ltclid= Twitter- https://twitter.com/JheneProduction?ltclid= LinkedIn- http://www.linkedin.com/in/jhene-productions?ltclid= Website- https://jheneproductions.wixsite.com/jheneproductions?ltclid=  Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Dr. Sandra Pagenta is a nurse practitioner, urologic proceduralist, and the host of the Doctor Nurse Podcast. Sandra found that her experiences in her professional career are beneficial to other nurses. She knew a platform needed to be developed to help other nurses on their journeys. She has precepted and mentored nurses who asked questions about how she got to where she is now. Sandra continues to inspire and encourage other nurses on her podcast. She wants to provide a platform for other doctor nurses to share their journeys, inspire, and create change!    Key takeaways from this episode:    5:30- What is expected when nurses enter the profession vs. the current climate.    8:00 Scarcity mindset and how to break away from it.    10:00 What a new nurse needs to know.    Are you questioning the steps you’re taking as a nurse? Sandra discusses the struggle nurses have when they are presented with career choices. She teaches us the importance of processing our wishes and intuitions to find areas of nursing that relate more to our personalities.    16:00 Life outside of nursing.   The work-life balance changes as your career changes. Sandra gives tips that nurses could use and any mom who juggles working and being present for their families. Then, Ellen and Laci discuss their nursing journey and how that shifted.    23:20 Becoming a mother and shifting priorities.    Ellen opens up about how her nursing career shifted after having children and how she has redefined herself as a nurse.    25:58 Nursing is versatile.     29:45 Should nurses practice at the doctoral level?     There is a constant fight amongst nurses when it comes to education levels. Ellen, Laci, and Sandra debate this topic and give their perspectives. Laci feels nurses need experience as a bedside nurse, and Sandra feels that there are nurses that do not need the experience to be a good nurse practitioner. Ellen brings up the fact that there are avenues that matter when deciding to practice at the bedside vs advancing immediately. Do you feel that the bedside is the foundation of nursing?    About Dr. Sandra Pagenta  My name is Dr. Sandra Pagenta, DNP and I am a proceduralist nurse practitioner part-time in the field of Urology and the host of the Doctor Nurse Podcast. I have experience in neurosurgery, pre-op, oncology, urology, gastroenterology, ED, and med-surg nursing. I am passionate about nurses understanding their value and worth due to experiences that I went through in my career. I had no idea how valuable nurses are to the healthcare field. I created the podcast as a platform for nurses to share their journeys through their careers and provide advice they would've like to know before they would have started their jobs. The purpose of the podcast is to inspire mentorship and growth. I believe you've got to know what people went through to get where they are today in order to feel like you can make a change yourself. I really hope to inspire nurses to become entrepreneurs, desire more education, and step outside of their comfort zones on the podcast.   Connect with Sandra:  Doctor Nurse Podcast  https://www.instagram.com/doctornursepodcast/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-p-18420836/   Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

Greta Wyeth from Still Point Movement joins the Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups on the show this week talking about the pelvic floor and how we can reeducate it. She discusses the fascia and finding the pelvic floor muscles. Greta runs a post-rehab pilates studio and for the past 10 years, she has worked with women on strengthening their pelvic floor. She also educates women on the importance of balance, stability, and movement.  Greta created a course to help women learn how to strengthen their pelvic floor from home. This course focuses on anatomy and physiology, the purpose of the pelvic floor, movement, women’s health advocacy, and tips on navigating the medical system to get needed care. Greta discusses how to reeducate the pelvic floor after childbirth. She explains that re-educating is NOT restoring and that you will never go back to the pelvic floor you once had, but you can definitely do something about it!    Have you ever wondered what pregnancy, labor, and delivery do to your pelvic floor? Or maybe you are one of the ⅔ of women that experience pelvic floor dysfunction. Greta gives our listeners issues to look out for that may indicate you have a problem.   If you are preparing for childbirth, she teaches us exactly how to strengthen and prepare. Greta talks about muscles you never would have correlated to the pelvic floor.  How soon should someone start working on their pelvic floor? Greta suggests before, during, and after pregnancy. She reminds us to be careful of the pressure we put on the intrabdominal space during the second, third, and fourth trimesters.  What would you suggest for someone who is postpartum who wants to reeducate their pelvic floor? Greta shares that women can do this anytime after childbirth. Starting small and add more difficulty as you get stronger.  Greta answers so many questions for us in the episode including, what vaginal rejuvenation is, what our pelvic floor does for us when we have sex, how to strengthen our core, and so much more!  Where can we start? Greta gives step-by-step guidelines to get you started on improving your pelvic floor. BONUS! She even walks us through an exercise that engages our lower pelvic floor. Follow Greta at still.movement on Instagram and check out her website and courses at www.stillpointmovement.com  Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas Twitter: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!

This episode was packed with so much goodness that we just had to share it again! The summer is upon us and maybe you need some parenting inspiration to tackle those tantrums or establish boundaries.  Chris Peterson, aka The Parenting Professor (http://theparentingprofessor.com), discusses the highly effective Love and Logic parenting technique and blows away the Smart Mommas with some easy to implement strategies! Don’t miss the discussions on how to stop a temper tantrum in its tracks and ending the “how long can we drag out bedtime” game. You’ll be able to implement these strategies as soon as the episode ends!  Uh-Oh Song for Toddlers: Dr. Charles Fay of the Love and Logic Institute shares the Uh-Oh song in this YouTube video. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drh66-WUJCw)  More info on the Uh-Oh song and where you might be going wrong. (https://www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/email/newsletter/1412024797)  If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!  Let's connect! Follow the girls on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas Twitter: @heysmartmommas

Mandy Hicks, a Licensed Professional Counselor, joins the ladies on this episode to discuss common issues couples face and actionable steps you can take today!   Do you think that putting your marriage first above anything else will benefit in the long term? Well, Mandy provides insight into why this will actually help your relationship and your kids.  Infidelity, married to a narcissist, co-parenting? Mandy Discusses her experiences as a therapist dealing with these issues. How would you deal with infidelity? Mandy tells of how a higher power is often utilized to get through this tough time.  How do you put your marriage first in your everyday life? Mandy urges us all to make it a deliberate practice. Plan your week out together and make time for each other. Ellen shares how she and her husband carve out time every day for one another and how to do that with kids to ensure that one on one attention. Crystal discusses the importance of a regular date night with her husband and modeling a good relationship for their daughter.  Mandy teaches us about issues separated parents face with raising their children in two homes. She gives powerful tips to combat some of the most common problems these parents face.  Do you ever wonder if you are married to a narcissist? Maybe you know someone who is? Well, Mandy breaks it down for us and describes what to look for.  Being new parents can be one of the most stressful times for a couple. You wonder how you are going adjust and if you and your partner will be the same people. Mandy urges us to set expectations and be honest and open. Crystal shares what it was like after having a baby and how the roles and expectations shifted, but this could not have happened without clear communication. Ellen talks about how men are wired differently, and they don’t necessarily see what needs to be done around the home. She tells of her experiences with her husband and how she feels the importance of not coming to the conversation hungry, angry, or tired as it will likely turn into an argument. Mandy reminds us that everyone is different, and in the circumstances like these, we need to give our partners some grace. Communication is key!  The ladies talk about common struggles related to in-laws. Mandy wants couples to have clear boundaries and to make sure they are putting their partners first.  Finally, a discussion on COVID and how to deal with the different views regarding a threat and whether or not to stay home or safely integrate back into society. Mandy provides actionable steps you can take in your marriage today to help ease your home's tensions when dealing with anxiety, either in you or your spouse.  Stick around for the end of the episode for some powerful insights and tips from Mandy that you can take home and use today!  Mentioned in this episode: Mandy Hicks Counseling on FB @mandyhickscounseling Let's connect! Follow the girls on Instagram - @mslacilynch @ellenlauletta @cmalber Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas Twitter: @heysmartmommas

Leisha is coming on the show this week to discuss hormones, cycles, and moods. Low energy does not have to be the norm with moms! As a functional medicine practitioner, she helps moms get back to feeling like themselves again. This episode is packed with so much information to get you back on track with your hormone health. Leisha lays out the foundation to get you started!    Leisha Drews is an RN with a background in critical care. She found her passion in holistic functional health and focuses on finding the root cause of women’s hormone issues. Leisha works with women dealing with abnormal periods, low energy, and mood swings. She has a big heart for moms and wants to help them to feel better and be present with their kids. Leisha is a mom herself and definitely understands their concerns!     Moms in their postpartum years come to Leisha tired and feeling awful. She reminds us that we don’t need to sacrifice everything in our lives to be a good mom. Eating well, self-care and sleep are vital to feeling well. There are a lot of changes in our hormones after having kids. Root causes may not be discussed at your postpartum visit and Leisha wants to help moms get back to feeling like themselves again.    What does a normal monthly cycle look like? Leisha tells us what to expect regarding hormone levels and how we feel during our cycle. Your cycle and your mood are connected and you can plan for when you know you will feel the best and have the most energy. Leisha explains what types of activities would be the best to implement and when based on your hormone cycle.    Where do we start when it comes to repairing our hormones? Step 1- figure out where you are in your cycle Step 2- plan for the first week of your cycle, ask yourself what you need before your cycle begins? Maybe you know you’ll feel blah a few days before and plan some self-care.    What can you do when your hormones are out of wack? Leisha explains that we want to get our bodies to a place of feeling safe. When we are stressed and in chaos, our bodies will protect us and hormone dysregulation occurs. First, look at nutrition. Are you eating whole foods? Are you eating consistently and a proper amount? Leisha gives her perspective on fasting. For young moms, she explains how they are putting out a lot of energy and if fasting, they cannot sustain it for a long period of time. This can cause secondary issues along with hormone imbalance.    Actionable self-care tips mentioned in this episode: 1 - Ask yourself what you need today 2 - Reading  3 - Going on a walk with a friend 4 - Sitting outside in the sun 5 - Scheduling monthly nights off to spend with a friend or your spouse    Leisha ends the show urging moms to stop and really think about what they need to feel fulfilled. Schedule in time every week for yourself, get to know yourself, and make yourself a priority!   Leisha Drews is an RN, FDN-P, and women’s health educator with a passion for holistic women’s healthcare. She believes that there is so much more to hormones health than just “getting by” or using band-aid solutions to cover up symptoms and loves to help her clients get to the root cause of their hormone and gut issues so they can have better energy, better periods, and feel like themselves again (even as a mom!) She uses functional lab testing and personalized health education and protocols to support her clients along their health journey and believes that support and accountability are key in truly making progress. When not talking about periods, Leisha can be found hanging out with her two kids outside, trying a new recipe, or planning an adventure.   Connect with Leisha on IG www.instagram.com/abundant.life.wellness   Follow the hosts on Instagram - @mslacilea @ellenlauletta @stl_injector   Email: scrubcapsandsippycups@gmail.com Or you can leave us an audio message that could air on a future podcast episode! https://www.speakpipe.com/Scrubcapsandsippycups   Facebook: Scrub Caps and Sippy Cups Instagram: @heysmartmommas Twitter: @heysmartmommas If you loved this episode, found value, or just loved hanging out with us, please head over to Apple Podcasts and leave us a review!