All the self-help extremes out there seem designed for perfect robots. But what if progress doesn’t require perfection? Welcome to your gentle self-development hub: About Progress, a podcast and community devoted to progress made practical. Join host and coach, Monica Packer, and her special guests to get the hug AND kick in the pants you need to do something and grow in ways that stick.
…
continue reading
Achievinggoals Podcasts
Pebbles of Light strives to help you recognize those who have helped light your path and become the person you are. This helps you to have direction and courage in sharing your light with others. We'll cover a variety of topics, including: parenting, mom hacks, faith, home life, relationships, traditions, and more. Pebbles of Light is all about finding and sharing small moments that bring hope, healing, and connection. Each episode is created with the belief that one story, one insight, or o ...
…
continue reading
1
AP 740: The Best Books I Read || More Personal Preview
48:23
48:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:23I love learning and talking about books, and I've found that getting back into reading—starting with just one or two books a month—is a key daily habit for my own personal development and learning how to be happier. That's why I dedicate a whole episode of More Personal to sharing my favorite reads every month! Today I'm sharing the best books I re…
…
continue reading
1
AP 739: The Antidote to Comparison: How Gratitude Helps You Reclaim Confidence || with Kathie Gwilliam
43:18
43:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:18In my latest episode, I had the pleasure of talking with Kathie Gwilliam about how gratitude can play a pivotal role in our personal development and self-improvement. We delved into the sneaky nature of comparison and how it can erode our self-worth, leading to unhappiness. But Kathie presented simple, actionable steps on how to be happier by shift…
…
continue reading
1
You’re Allowed to Want More || H&K with Monica Packer
10:44
10:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:44This personal growth podcast episode dives into how to be happier by challenging the belief that “normal women” shouldn’t dream big. Monica shares practical personal development tools and daily habits that support self improvement, including how to feel happy without burning out and how to stop being a perfectionist in your everyday life. If you lo…
…
continue reading
1
AP 738: Small Joys for a Brighter Holiday Season || Growth Spurt
11:18
11:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:18Feeling overwhelmed by the holiday rush? In this episode I'm sharing how I've found that small joys, like a quick YouTube break or a swipe of bright lipstick, can significantly boost happiness and ease perfectionistic pressures. These tiny habits help inject self-compassion into my day, allowing me to fully enjoy the present. For me, pairing mundan…
…
continue reading
1
AP 737: Midlife Makeover: How to Transform Crisis Into a Catalyst for Growth || with Wendy Valentine
43:37
43:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:37Can a midlife crisis actually become a turning point for happiness and personal development? In this episode I'm exploring this idea with the inspiring Wendy Valentine, who transformed her life through self-care and self-compassion. Unlocking self-improvement isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it's about envisioning a new future fueled by choi…
…
continue reading
1
Belong to Yourself: Rethinking Sex, Self-Compassion & Personal Growth || H&K with with Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife
7:52
7:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:52This personal growth podcast episode dives into personal development and self improvement through the lens of intimacy—covering how to be happier, how to feel happy, daily habits, self-compassion, and how to stop being a perfectionist. A smart, self help podcasts–style convo for personal growth and development and self care for mothers—ideal if you…
…
continue reading
1
AP 736: State of the Podcast Address: My Real Thoughts on What It’s Like to Pursue a Passion Project for This Long
47:00
47:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:00It's been a wild ride since our first episode aired in November of 2016, and today I'm reflecting on what it's like to pursue something for this long. Pursuing a passion project like this has taught me about personal development, resilience, and how daily habits can lead us toward self-compassion and growth. It's been so much more than a podcast. I…
…
continue reading
1
AP 735: How to Heal Anxious Attachment, Rebuild Self-Worth, and Feel Secure from Within || with Trevor Hanson
52:27
52:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:27In today's episode we're covering some deep territory with my returning guest, Trevor Hanson, as we explore anxious attachment. It's crucial to understand how our attachment styles, shaped by our upbringing and personal experiences, influence our daily habits and relationships. Learning to trust ourselves and engage in self-care can transform insec…
…
continue reading
1
How to Grow Through Resistance || H&K with Patrice Washington
8:56
8:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:56In this personal growth podcast episode of with Patrice Washington, we dive deep into what resistance really means on your journey of self-improvement and personal development. Patrice shares how to stop being a perfectionist, build self-compassion, and create daily habits that help you grow instead of burn out. This is one of the best podcasts for…
…
continue reading
1
AP 734: The funk of all funks, some favorite fall traditions, the habit that's finally going better, how close I am to finishing my book, and the music and TV show I'm loving right now || Messy Middle ...
29:05
29:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:05This monthly series features an episode sharing my recent highs and lows, how my habits are going, a Do Something List update, plus what I'm loving lately and my commitments for the upcoming month. I hope this glimpse into my life, my family, my work, and my own self development encourages you in your own journey. Around here the goal is never perf…
…
continue reading
1
AP 733: A Case for BIG Acts of Self-Care for Reconnection and Self-Reclamation
45:37
45:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:37I've always emphasized the beauty and sustainability of small daily habits for self-improvement. But occasionally, our self-care journey demands a more significant leap to reboot our personal development. On this episode I shared how my recent solo trip to London was a radical act of self-care for me. It's essential to recognize that personal growt…
…
continue reading
1
How to Feel Happy in Your Own Skin: Body Positivity and Self-Compassion || H&K with Kristie Kemp and June Blackhurst of June Loop Swimwear
7:03
7:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:03In this personal growth podcast episode, Kristie Kemp and June Blackhurst of June Loop Swimwear share how true self-compassion and self-care for mothers start with embracing your body at every stage. They open up about aging, perfectionism, and the daily habits that lead to real personal growth and development. If you’ve ever wondered how to feel h…
…
continue reading
1
AP 732: The Truth About MLMs: How Multi-Level Marketing Hijacks Self-Help and Targets Women || Deep Dive Preview
42:08
42:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:08In this special preview episode I take a closer look at Multi-level Marketing (MLMs) and their often hidden impact on women seeking personal development. While MLMs promise opportunities for self-improvement, they can often leave participants feeling stuck. In the full episode, I share personal experiences and insights to highlight the importance o…
…
continue reading
1
AP 731: When Productivity Becomes a Problem: Signs You’re Overcommitted and How to Reclaim Your Time + Energy || with Israa Nasir
48:12
48:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:12I had the pleasure of speaking with therapist and author Israa Nasir about the often-hidden cost of toxic productivity. We delved into deeply relevant topics such as how an endless to-do list isn't just a badge of honor, but potentially a symptom of perfectionism that could be stifling your true happiness. Along the way, Israa shared some eye-openi…
…
continue reading
1
How to Heal Through Your Body || H&K with Jill Freestone
9:30
9:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:30This personal growth podcast episode dives into how to be happier by learning to feel instead of fix. Jill Freestone shares powerful self-help and personal development tools to calm anxiety, build self-compassion, and create daily habits that support self-care for mothers. Perfect if you’re ready to learn how to stop being a perfectionist and disco…
…
continue reading
1
AP 730: The Female Blueprint for Energy and Ease: How to Sync with Your Body Instead of Fighting It || Wise Women Series with Sarah Horne
52:16
52:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:16In this episode I had the incredible opportunity to chat with yoga therapist and women’s mentor, Sarah Horne, about how women's bodies function on a 28-day rhythm. It was enlightening to learn how embracing this natural cycle can impact our personal development, allowing us to harness the wisdom of self-care for mothers and others like us. Sometime…
…
continue reading
1
AP 729: In a Funk? Here’s How I’m Supporting Myself Through Mine and How You Can, Too
39:42
39:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:42I recently found myself in a funk, overwhelmed by the hustle of life post my (mostly solo) trip to England. This reality check led me to explore personal growth strategies to find balance and happiness. Embracing self-compassion, I realized that self-care isn’t a luxury but a necessity, especially for busy moms like me.Reflecting on my journey, I d…
…
continue reading
1
Why Fun Isn’t Frivolous: Reclaim Joy Amid Busyness || H&K with Catherine Price
6:20
6:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:20In this personal growth podcast episode, host Monica Packer and author Catherine Price dive deep into how to be happier through the science and practice of true fun. They explore what gets in the way of joy, like perfectionism, guilt, and endless responsibilities and share small, practical steps to rediscover your spark. Whether you’re seeking pers…
…
continue reading
1
AP 728: Let’s Validate Why it Feels “Easier” to Not Take Time for Yourself || Growth Spurt
13:40
13:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:40In this episode I'm exploring why self-care for mothers often feels like an impossible task. It's not a lack of self-compassion or personal development that's to blame, but the invisible labor—those daily habits and tasks that women silently shoulder. This understanding is crucial for self-improvement; it helps us identify how to stop being a perfe…
…
continue reading
1
AP 727: “Am I OK financially?” 5 Steps to Feel More Secure in Uncertain Times + Be More Recession-Proof || with Elizabeth Pennington from Fearless Finance
53:56
53:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:56Does talking about money make you a little bit sweaty? Navigating the choppy waters of financial uncertainty can feel overwhelming, but my conversation with Elizabeth Pennington from Fearless Finance provided invaluable, clear-sighted guidance. In our conversation she laid out five crucial steps to ensure financial stability, emphasizing the import…
…
continue reading
1
How to Discover and Nurture Your Gifts Without Guilt || H&K with Carol Lynn Pearson
8:01
8:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:01Author and poet Carol Lynn Pearson shares gentle, soul-stirring wisdom on discovering your divine gifts, even in the busiest seasons of motherhood. Learn why creating space for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s sacred—and how your gifts are meant to flow through you, not from perfection. Listen to the full episode here: https://www.aboutprogress.com/blog…
…
continue reading
1
“I Wish” to “Why Not”: Overcoming Perfectionism to Reclaim Creativity || H&K with Kolbie Blume
8:55
8:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:55Recovering perfectionist Kolbie Blume shares how she moved from fear and external validation to creative flow—starting with hand lettering, falling for watercolor, and learning self-compassion. If perfectionism has stalled your art, writing, or podcast, this convo will help you choose process over outcomes and finally start. Listen to the full epis…
…
continue reading
1
AP 726: A life-changing trip, a back-to-school update, what I'm looking forward to this month, and all about my More for Moms Conference || Messy Middle October 2025
32:40
32:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:40This monthly series features an episode sharing my recent highs and lows, how my habits are going, a Do Something List update, plus what I'm loving lately and my commitments for the upcoming month. I hope this glimpse into my life, my family, my work, and my own self development encourages you in your own journey. Around here the goal is never perf…
…
continue reading
1
AP 725: Why Perfect Habits Are a Myth: 5 Principles to Adapt Your Routines During a Seasonal Shift
38:28
38:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:28I used to think that a true "habit person" had the perfect routine lined up every day without a hitch, but that's not reality. Life is unpredictable, and being flexible is crucial. From rethinking my morning routine with five kids in different schools to embracing the early wake-up calls from my toddler, alterations are unavoidable. It's a reminder…
…
continue reading
3551
How to Get Along with Your Parents as an Adult || H&K with Georgia Anderson
11:39
11:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:39Struggling to get along with your parents as an adult? Learn why differentiation spikes when you become an adult, how to swap judgment for empathy, and the exact conversation skills that move relationships from parent–child to adult–adult. Listen to the full episode here: https://www.aboutprogress.com/blog/how-to-get-along-better-with-your-parents …
…
continue reading
1
AP 724: Confessions of Former MLM Girls: Shame, Sales, and Sisterhood || More Personal Preview
40:00
40:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:00In a conversation that originally aired on my private podcast feed, I spoke with my podcast manager, Taylor, about our personal experiences with multi-level marketing (MLM) companies. We delved into the icky factor of being approached by acquaintances with business propositions and the wider implications of these ventures. While these experiences d…
…
continue reading
3951
Morning Routines for Moms: Tiny Habits that Actually Stick || H&K with Chanelle Neilson
10:17
10:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:17Chanelle shares practical, mom-tested strategies to build a morning routine that survives nap schedules, night wakings, and real life—no perfection required. Listen to the full episode here: https://www.aboutprogress.com/blog/creating-a-morning-routine-that-works-with-chanelle-neilson-of-the-moms-who-know-podcast Sign up as a Supporter to get acces…
…
continue reading
4051
AP 723: A Quick Reminder: IDENTITY IS THE KEY || Growth Spurt
11:41
11:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:41Our identity influences our behavior and vice versa, creating a cycle that can elevate or drag us down. By focusing on how we see ourselves and affirming the identity we aspire to, we interrupt negative patterns and cultivate growth. It's a transformative tool not only for my kids (I explain in the episode!) but for anyone seeking to improve their …
…
continue reading
1
AP 722: Facing a Career Crossroads: How to Control What You Can in the Face of Uncertainty || Coaching Call with Sheila
37:26
37:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:26In a recent coaching call with Sheila we explored the challenges she faces at a career crossroads. After overcoming cancer, Sheila is determined to return to work part-time, yet faces employer resistance to her accommodations. Together, we addressed her fears of ageism and the struggle to find fulfilling, part-time work.Sheila's journey illustrates…
…
continue reading
1
Why Sleep Might Be the Missing Piece in Your Mental Health || H&K with Christine Lawler
10:14
10:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:14Licensed therapist and sleep expert Christine Lawler shares the surprising connection between sleep and mental health—including postpartum depression, anxiety, and burnout. In this powerful conversation, we break down why sleep isn't just self-care—it's survival. If you've been stuck, exhausted, or told “this is just adulthood,” this is the wake-up…
…
continue reading
1
AP 721: Look for the Glimmers || Growth Spurt
8:06
8:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:06The start of high school was a major leap for my daughter with special needs, magnified by her transition from a charter school. We both faced heightened anxieties about fitting in and managing sensory challenges. Our preparation included school visits and crafting a mental touchstone for her: to look for glimmers of light amongst potential darknes…
…
continue reading
1
AP 720: No Longer Last: A Back-to-School Reset for Moms || with Mia Hemstad
48:52
48:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:52Ever feel like you're always last on your own to-do list? With the start of a new school year, it’s the perfect chance for us moms to shift that narrative. In a conversation with Mia Hemstad, we delved into the vital role of self-care in reclaiming our time and energy. Mia's "four B's" framework encourages us to thoughtfully prioritize our needs, w…
…
continue reading
1
How One Deep Breath Can Change Everything || H&K with Monica Packer
7:17
7:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:17Struggling with reactivity or feeling out of control? In this powerful clip, Monica Packer explains the science behind deep breathing and introduces a simple, 10-second practice that can help you create space between trigger and reaction. Learn how to use your "response gap" to reclaim calm, control, and alignment—one intentional breath at a time. …
…
continue reading
1
AP 719: A new school year at FIVE schools, our garden party, a new morning routine, my book title (!!!) and wondering if I can really do all of this.
50:28
50:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:28This monthly series features an episode sharing my recent highs and lows, how my habits are going, a Do Something List update, plus what I'm loving lately and my commitments for the upcoming month. I hope this glimpse into my life, my family, my work, and my own self development encourages you in your own journey. Around here the goal is never perf…
…
continue reading
1
AP 718: It’s OK to Want More || How Women Can Overcome Guilt and Embrace Their Desires
45:56
45:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:56Today I'm talking about the importance of acknowledging our desire for more in life without guilt or fear. As I work with my coaching clients, I've noticed that many women struggle with embracing their wants, fearing it makes them appear ungrateful or selfish. I'm thrilled to launch the inaugural More for Moms Conference, a free virtual event featu…
…
continue reading
1
The Healing Power of Creativity: Making Art Just for You || H&K with Ashmae Hoiland
9:58
9:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:58Artist and writer Ashmae Hoiland opens up about how creativity has been a powerful tool for healing, processing grief, and reclaiming personal agency. In this heartfelt conversation, she shares how choosing to create without pressure or an audience has transformed her relationship with art—and herself. Whether you're in a creative rut or just need …
…
continue reading
1
AP 717: Behind the Scenes of a Once-in-a-Lifetime Tour to Rome || Q&A on My Female Foodie Collab-Tour to Italy
1:08:25
1:08:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:25If you haven't heard yet, I'm thrilled to announce an exclusive female foodie tour to Rome, Italy, happening in October 2026. This adventure is designed just for our community by Brooke Eliason, the founder of Female Foodie. Recently, we hosted a Q&A session to answer all questions about the trip, revealing an itinerary filled with dining at Rome's…
…
continue reading
1
AP 716: You Don’t Have to Do Life Alone: Finding Courage and Community in Hard Times || with Toni Collier
44:27
44:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:27Today, I’m joined by my friend, author, and speaker Toni Collier, who knows firsthand what it means to rebuild a broken life. When Toni was last on the show, we talked about embracing brokenness. Since then, her life has essentially exploded in ways that would make most people retreat: betrayal, a public divorce, and the loss of her job, church, co…
…
continue reading
1
Why You Don’t Need to “Kill” Your Inner Critic || H&K with Nancy Jane Smith
10:02
10:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:02What if your anxiety wasn’t just about your thoughts—but your unfelt feelings? In this powerful clip, counselor Nancy Jane Smith breaks down why our inner critic (aka the “monger”) might feel like it's helping us succeed, but is actually holding us back. She shares how acknowledging your emotions—even for just 90 seconds—can change everything. If y…
…
continue reading
1
AP 715: 3 Things I’m Looking Forward To, Italy Version + How Anticipation is Much of the Joy || Growth Spurt
11:09
11:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:09I’m in full-on anticipation mode (in a good way!!) for the Female Foodie tour to Rome I’m hosting for the About Progress community. It has been so fun to have something to look forward to! Regardless of if you can join us, I want to challenge you to design something for yourself to look forward to. Whether it's a long walk or a family staycation, a…
…
continue reading
1
AP 714: I Matter Too: One Mom’s Journey to Self-Care After Divorce || Coaching Call with Amy
53:07
53:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:07Can a simple act like brushing your hair be the first domino to a new life? On this coaching call, I speak with Amy, a single mom of five navigating a complete life reset. She's recently moved into a new home and is preparing to go back to school full-time, ready to move past "survival mode" and build a life of stability. Amy struggles with priorit…
…
continue reading
1
How to Resurrect Buried Dreams Without Abandoning What Matters || H&K with Janelle Alexandra
7:17
7:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:17What if your old dreams still mattered—even the ones you buried under diapers, debt, or doubt? In this heart-opening conversation, life purpose coach Janelle Alexandra shares how to reconnect with your childhood dreams, design your ideal day, and give yourself permission to dream again—without giving up the people and priorities that matter most. Y…
…
continue reading
1
AP 713: My Summer Was Not What I Hoped–Here’s How I’m Handling the Disappointment in Ways That Can Apply to You || Growth Spurt
13:41
13:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
13:41I wanted a "best summer ever," but what I got was good, not great. If you’ve ever faced a similar disappointment—a goal that fell flat, a plan that didn't pan out, or a feeling that just wasn't what you'd hoped for—this episode is for you. I'm sharing my personal disappointment and how I'm handling it. Using my WN-WIN formula, we'll walk through wh…
…
continue reading
1
AP 712: Why You Don’t Have to Be a Perfect Parent to Raise an ADHD Child Well || with Drs. Lori and Mallory from the Childhood Collective
47:08
47:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:08The fear of making mistakes can paralyze parents and prevent true connections with their kids. In this episode I explore this challenge with Drs. Lori and Mallory from the Childhood Collective, focusing on parents of neurodiverse children, particularly those with ADHD. We delve into the societal pressures and internal criticisms that complicate par…
…
continue reading
1
How to Know When to Push or Pause in Your Personal Growth || H&K with Ashton Barrett
7:16
7:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:16Feeling overwhelmed by your own goals? Ashton Barrett joins me for a heart-and-soul conversation about how to recognize when you're growing—and when you're grinding yourself into the ground. We talk about perfectionism, the pressure to perform, and the magic of the “power of yet.” If you’ve ever felt stuck in self-doubt or like you’re behind on you…
…
continue reading
1
AP 711: Highlights from our summer, my 'Me Day,' getting scammed, exciting book announcement, what movies I'm watching with my kids, and how you can come to Italy with me! || Messy Middle August 2025
36:08
36:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:08This monthly series features an episode sharing my recent highs and lows, how my habits are going, a Do Something List update, plus what I'm loving lately and my commitments for the upcoming month. I hope this glimpse into my life, my family, my work, and my own self development encourages you in your own journey. Around here the goal is never perf…
…
continue reading
1
AP 710: How I’ve Saved Major Money (THOUSANDS!) On Groceries the Last 18 Months || + How You Can, Too
42:25
42:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:25I'm sharing my journey of creating a practical and strategic grocery shopping plan to save money and reduce stress. I recount my experiences and the challenges I faced with rising grocery costs, and how I eventually developed a system I call the 'Smart Seven.' These seven strategies include how I plan, when I shop, and what I shop for. These tips h…
…
continue reading
1
Why Embracing Your Inner Child Makes You a Better Parent || H&K with Neena Warburton
6:11
6:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:11What if the parts of you that felt carefree, curious, and joyful as a child are exactly what you need more of as an adult—and as a parent? In this heartfelt conversation, Neena Warburton shares how reconnecting with her inner child changed the way she parents and lives. You’ll hear how childlike qualities like wonder, creativity, and compassion are…
…
continue reading
1
AP 709: How to Prioritize What Matters Without Burning Out || with Greg McKeown
52:58
52:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:58In this episode, I dive deep into a fascinating conversation with Greg McKeown, the bestselling author of "Essentialism" and "Effortless." Greg and I explore the concept of making life's essentials easier and more manageable. We discuss how the hustle culture often leads to burnout and how we can find a better way to prioritize what truly matters.W…
…
continue reading
1
Letting Go of Perfectionism and Learning to Be Fully Known || H&K with Kendra Adachi
11:03
11:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
11:03In this heartfelt conversation, Kendra Adachi shares how her journey away from perfectionism began—not with a dramatic overhaul, but by starting small and tuning into what truly mattered. She opens up about identity loss, grief, and the fear of being fully seen, offering hard-won wisdom on rebuilding a life that’s rooted in authenticity, not perfor…
…
continue reading