Best TIS books Podcasts (2025)

1
A Message From Meagan & Sarah 0:33

Play Pause

3M ago0:33

0:33

Welcome to The Mom Hour, a podcast co-hosted by Meagan Francis and Sarah Powers from 2015 to 2025. We wrapped production in June of 2025, but we’ve left our library of episodes available for anyone who wants to listen. So while you won’t find any new episodes in this podcast feed, we hope you enjoy the archives and that the more than 800 topics we’…

1
Paying It Forward: Episode 523 53:35

3M ago53:35

53:35

After more than a decade and over 800 hours of conversation, connection, and community, The Mom Hour comes to a close in this final episode. Join Meagan and Sarah as we reflect on what it has meant to share this space with you—our listeners, fellow moms, and, truly, our friends. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or found us more recent…

1
Meagan's & Sarah's 5 By 50: Episode 522 56:35

3M ago56:35

56:35

What would you like to accomplish before your next milestone birthday? Today Meagan and Sarah share our personal “five before fifty” lists, giving ourselves the next few years to check off some aspirations both lofty and silly (think big travel goals, creative dreams, home improvements and outdoor adventures). Whether you’re approaching 30, 40, 50,…

1
Visioning & Future Casting In Midlife 59:15

3M ago59:15

59:15

Time is slippery—especially when you’re standing in midlife, looking both forward and back. Today Meagan and Sarah continue unpacking one of the most elusive and shape-shifting concepts we wrestle with: time. How do we imagine the future, how do we plan for it (tarot cards, anyone?), and how does our relationship to longterm planning and future-cas…

1
What's (Still!) Great About Our Eight: Episode 521 56:28

3M ago56:28

56:28

After a decade of sharing the ups and downs of motherhood, we're wrapping up The Mom Hour this month—and taking one final episode to update you on the kids who’ve grown up alongside this show. From 12 to 27, our eight kids have been a background-but-constant presence on the podcast, and today we'll share where they are now and how they're each thri…

1
The Tiny Griefs Of Motherhood: Episode 520 52:48

4M ago52:48

52:48

As kids grow up, it’s the littlest reminders that catch us off guard—like discovering a pair of toddler socks or realizing nobody needs a kid’s menu. Join Meagan and Sarah as we share some of the small-but-significant signs that time is, as ever, marching on. It’s a conversation full of warmth, nostalgia, and gentle reminders to savor the stages as…

1
MORE Listener Questions & Our Advice: Episode 519 55:08

4M ago55:08

55:08

Honi asks how our friends are showing up for us these days. Laura wonders if we ever get recognized in public (and if it's our faces or our voices that give us away!). Aspiring writer Samm is looking for advice on getting started with writing, Lisa wants to know what we’ll miss most about The Mom Hour, and Erica prompts some reflection on what we’r…

1
Listener Questions & Our Advice: Episode 518 1:02:51

4M ago1:02:51

1:02:51

Jennifer wants to hear all our old podcast intros one more time (what a fun trip down memory lane!). Contributor Sarah wonders how Meagan and Sarah’s perspectives on parenting have evolved since episode one. Tricia wonders how to get a kindergartener to open up about hard stuff, while listeners Mel and Lisa each ask how to figure out what’s next in…

1
Time-Saving, Time-Shifting, Time Surrendering 51:54

4M ago51:54

51:54

Modern society loves the concept of ‘saving time’ – but at what cost? There’s nothing wrong with streamlining and efficiency, but today Meagan and Sarah push back against the notion that time-saving strategies – and products – unilaterally bring more calm to our days. Instead we look at ways to think about shifting time to our advantage, batching t…

1
Are You A "Yes Mom" Or A "No Mom"? : Episode 517 49:18

4M ago49:18

49:18

Some days we’re the “Sure, why not?” mom, and other days we’re the “Because I said so” mom - and often we lean more into one side than the other. Meagan and Sarah unpack what the Yes Mom / No Mom binary really means, the why behind our wiring, how it affects our kids, and how it’s not always so black and white. We look at the balance between freedo…

1
Writing "The Last Parenting Book You'll Ever Read": Episode 516 57:27

5M ago57:27

57:27

Meagan wrote a book—and Sarah has lots of questions. In this episode, we dive into Meagan’s journey from concept to publication. From the initial spark of an idea to the challenges of writing, editing, and getting it out into the world, join us for an inside look at the process behind bringing her book to life. Whether you’re a writer, a non-writer…

1
5 Things That Surprised Meagan About Parenting Young Adults: Episode 515 59:13

5M ago59:13

59:13

What does it mean to “launch” a kid into adulthood? How does parenting change when you’re still mom, but they’re no longer children? With Meagan’s new book just a week from launch, we’re diving into five things she’s learned about parenting young adults. Sarah asks the questions, Meagan shares the wisdom—and we both reflect on how the parenting jou…

1
What Does It Mean To Raise Creative Kids? 56:57

5M ago56:57

56:57

Raising creative kids isn’t just about paintbrushes and piano lessons—it’s also about noticing how they think, solve problems, and dream up deas. Both Meagan and Sarah come from creative backgrounds and hope to raise creative kids, but we’ve learned that creativity shows up in unexpected places—from storytelling and party planning to building weird…

1
Motherhood Nostalgia & Why It Matters: Episode 514 55:53

5M ago55:53

55:53

We’ve heard from so many listeners who say that The Mom Hour helped you through your early years of parenting. Your notes of gratitude got us thinking (and feeling all the feels) about what a uniquely intense and tender season “active mothering” really is—and why it inspires a certain nostalgia when viewed later from a distance. Join us as we share…

1
On Balance & Busy-Ness 53:34

5M ago53:34

53:34

This week, we’re talking about busy-ness—that always-running hamster wheel we either can’t get off… or can’t seem to climb onto. Meagan and Sarah each look back on times in our lives when our relationship with productivity felt off—whether we were drowning in to-dos or floating in a weird limbo of not-enough-to-dos. Where are we at now on the busy …

1
Home Management Then Vs. Now: Episode 513 50:41

5M ago50:41

50:41

From sandbox maintenance and the endless cycle of outgrown kids’ clothes to the rise of sourdough starters and evolving gardening ambitions, today's episode is about how our home management tasks have shifted as our kids have grown. We each share a few “then vs. now” snapshots, offering little insights into what domestic work looks like during diff…

1
What & How We're Reading This Spring: Episode 512 1:10:01

6M ago1:10:01

1:10:01

Hey, book lovers! This week, Meagan and Sarah catch up on our latest reading adventures. We share some books we’ve been loving lately, our TBR lists and check in on our library habits. We also discuss how reading habits change when we’re on vacation or just shaking up our routines. Oh, and with Meagan’s book launch on the horizon, we’re giving you …

1
Jokes, Humor, Pranks & Funny Stuff: Episode 511 1:05:17

6M ago1:05:17

1:05:17

No April Foolery from us today, but we ARE talking about family culture around jokes and funny stuff. We touch on Sarah’s very strong feelings about pranks and jump scares, the joy of watching our kids’ unique senses of humor evolve as they grow, whether teasing and ribbing fit in our our families’ culture, comedy styles in pop culture that catch o…

1
Starting My First Year Long Experiment… 8:20

6M ago8:20

8:20

Here we go! I’m starting my first year long experiment which is studying for 15 minutes of FOCUSED study each day across 3 target languages. Watch to find out why and how it relates to other things I am doing. Follow my blog: https://thelanguagelab.pika.page Find me elsewhere: https://www.instagram.com/thelanguagelaboratory/ https://mastodon.social…

1
House Rules For Neighbor Play: Episode 510 44:15

6M ago44:15

44:15

Living near other families with kids is a blessing and, occasionally, a challenge. In today’s episode of House Rules, Meagan and Sarah share tips from The Mom Hour community—consider this your go-to guide for making those impromptu playdates a little smoother! From setting boundaries, providing snacks, staying safe, and keeping the peace, we've got…

1
A Decade Of MomHourisms: Episode 509 1:01:37

6M ago1:01:37

1:01:37

Today we celebrate a decade of The Mom Hour! We asked listeners to tell us the phrases we say all the time – MomHour-isms, if you will – and wow, did you deliver. We own up to our quirks and vocal tics, give backstory to oft-repeated phrases we utter, and share behind-the-scenes details about making and editing the podcast. Join us! HELPFUL LINKS: …

1
Knowing Ourselves As Travelers 58:47

6M ago58:47

58:47

Let’s talk travel habits! How do you settle into a rental property? Do you unpack in a hotel room? Are you a fan of rental cars, or do you rely on ride-sharing apps? These are just a few of the things Meagan and Sarah discuss in today’s episode on traveling without kids and the unique habits that come with it. Join us as we share our personal quirk…

1
My Shortest Experiment Yet: Glossika 6:09

6M ago6:09

6:09

This was by far one of my shortest experiments in language learning. Glossika cool, but in this one I explain why it wasn't for me and what I may do instead to get the same results. Follow my blog: https://thelanguagelab.pika.page Find me elsewhere: https://www.instagram.com/thelanguagelaboratory/ https://mastodon.social/@languagelab Content Review…

1
Morning Routines Lately: Episode 508 57:39

7M ago57:39

57:39

Mornings set the tone for the day, so how are we spending ours lately? Today we define – and debate! – a “successful” start to the day, and dig into some of the mythology surrounding morning routines. From quiet time to busy school morning routines, we’ll share how different environments shape our mornings and talk about the little habits that help…

1
Evening Routines Lately: Episode 507 56:02

7M ago56:02

56:02

Does a peaceful evening beget a better morning? Let's find out. Today Meagan and Sarah talk about our evening routines lately, and next week we'll do the same with mornings. Now that our kids are older, we try to make time for the little things that make winding down feel calm and intentional. Plus, we share how we shut down our homes and families …

1
Giving Ourselves Credit & Compassion: Episode 506 56:18

7M ago56:18

56:18

“I wish I’d yelled less,” “I should’ve tidied up more”—sound familiar? We’re pretty hard on ourselves as moms, especially when we’re deep in the thick of parenting. With a little distance it’s a bit easier to recognize how much we’ve actually done for our families. Today Meagan and Sarah reflect on our early parenting years and give credit where cr…

1
Can you spell in your target language???? 9:03

7M ago9:03

9:03

I spent 9 minutes talking about spelling while learning 1 or more languages. Basically, do you practice spelling in language learning?? Let me know! Follow my blog: https://thelanguagelab.pika.page Find me elsewhere: https://www.instagram.com/thelanguagelaboratory/ https://mastodon.social/@languagelab Content Review Social Media Platforms: Letterbo…

1
The Realities Of Starting A Brick & Mortar Business: Episode 505 56:33

7M ago56:33

56:33

From crafting the perfect window display to chatting with customers and hand-picking the best products, Meagan shares the fun (and not-so-glamorous) side of running a business. Whether it’s her specialty tea shop or her family’s bookstore, Meagan has plenty of insights on what it takes to bring a dream to life. Sarah is here to ask all the question…

1
Packing & Prep For Travel 1:01:18

7M ago1:01:18

1:01:18

From tracking flight prices to snagging a hotel deal, packing your bags to prepping the home front, there’s a ton to talk about when it comes to travel planning. Join Meagan and Sarah as we discuss what works for us, how we feel about reviews on vacation rental sites, and where are strengths and weaknesses lie when it comes to packing a suitcase an…

1
Game-Changing Kitchen Skills: Episode 504 1:01:02

7M ago1:01:02

1:01:02

Perfectly crisped bacon with zero grease splatter, an onion diced evenly and confidently, and a sparkling clean kitchen sink. These are just a few of the kitchen confidence-boosters Meagan and Sarah have worked on over the years. Today’s episode is all about the skills we’ve developed – and even mastered – that help us enjoy home cooking more. Join…

1
A Lab Report: My Babbel Live Experiment 2 Months In 11:38

8M ago11:38

11:38

New sub series unlocked! This is my first installment of the Lab Reports which is where I share updates "reports" on specific experiments that I am running. This one is about my experience with Babbel Live so far. Follow my blog: https://thelanguagelab.pika.page Find me elsewhere: https://www.instagram.com/thelanguagelaboratory/ https://mastodon.so…

1
How Do You Know What's Next?: Episode 503 48:54

8M ago48:54

48:54

From big career pivots to giant life decisions, how do we know when it’s time to take a leap? How much dreaming and scheming comes before the moment of action? And how do you know what’s on the other side of a bend in the road? (Spoiler: you don’t.) Meagan and Sarah share a podcast-related update and explore these questions together. Join us! HELPF…

1
MORE Listener Questions & Our Advice: Episode 502 46:46

8M ago46:46

46:46

Meagan and Sarah tackle MORE of your listener questions! From handling school emails about your kid’s behavior to accepting that you’re not the ‘fun parent’, from encouraging teens to read more to nudging a reluctant 8-year-old into extracurriculars, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in! HELPFUL LINKS: Episodes From The Archives You May Enjoy: “Fun…

1
To Publish Reviews or Not, That 'Tis The Question 7:39

8M ago7:39

7:39

Follow my blog: https://thelanguagelab.pika.page Find me elsewhere: https://www.instagram.com/thelanguagelaboratory/ https://mastodon.social/@languagelab Content Review Social Media Platforms: Letterboxd - https://boxd.it/4plp9 Musicboard- https://musicboard.app/wellscirene2?rel=copy Serialized - https://srlzd.com/u/wellscirene2 Storygraph - https:…

1
Listener Questions & Our Advice: Episode 501 46:28

8M ago46:28

46:28

A preschooler with a bit of a hoarding tendency, mom-guilt related to not providing the same school experience to all three of her kids, and sadness about a firstborn child heading off to college. Meagan and Sarah offer our advice to moms with these parenting questions, PLUS we unpack the “glad I did / wish I’d done” conceit, offering our thoughts …

1
Travel Daydreams & Destinations 54:11

8M ago54:11

54:11

Where would we go if time, money, and (ahem) kids were of little consequence? Where would YOU go? In our first episode in a three-part travel series, Meagan and Sarah talk about dream destinations and what kind of travel experiences we envision as we move out of the intensive ‘family travel planning’ years. We talk about how our personalities infor…

1
Meagan & Sarah Are Back! Episode 500 58:29

8M ago58:29

58:29

Meagan and Sarah are back from a holiday hiatus and catching up on all the things in our 500th Tuesday episode! We’re chatting about the holiday season, the state of our homes, the latest antics from our pets, and what we’re looking forward to as parents this year. It’s been a minute, so come hang with us for some laughs, real talk, and all the fun…

1
My 2025 Language Learning Goals 18:00

9M ago18:00

18:00

Sharing a quick recap of 2024 and establishing all that I want to do in 2025! Follow my blog: https://thelanguagelab.pika.page Find me elsewhere: https://www.instagram.com/thelanguagelaboratory/ https://mastodon.social/@languagelab https://www.youtube.com/@TheLanguageLab-f5yBy Ciyadh Wells

1
Clean Your Home, Clear Your Mind: Episode 499 1:10:20

9M ago1:10:20

1:10:20

Ready to clear the clutter, both in your home and your mind? Catie and Katie are back and we’re diving into all things cleaning — from how a tidy space can lead to a clearer head, to creating cleaning schedules that actually work for your family. We’ll share creative tips on getting the kids involved, plus our favorite products, and how we make cle…

1
New Year Mantras For Your Motherhood Era: Episode 498 1:04:38

9M ago1:04:38

1:04:38

For more peace and purpose in your mom life, consider a mantra! Today Katie Gouldner and Catie Parrish dive into the enchanting world of mantras—what they are, how to create one that fits your current motherhood era, and how to weave it into your daily routine. We’ll share feel-good examples, simple tips, and ways to make your mantra an anchor thro…

1
How To Feel Better About Your Home (No Matter What It Looks Like): Episode 497 1:20:06

9M ago1:20:06

1:20:06

In a world where influencers and professional photos shape our idea of the “perfect home,” it can be overwhelming to develop our own home style. But what if loving your home isn’t about achieving perfection? Today Joanna Martin sits down with special guest Kelsey Wharton from The Girl Next Door Podcast to discuss embracing the homes we have, lettin…

1
Managing Expectations For Holiday "Break": Episode 496 54:43

9M ago54:43

54:43

The holidays are full of fun traditions—holiday photos, baking cookies, and matching PJs—but what happens when reality doesn’t live up to our expectations? Jayme and Kia are here to talk about how to embrace the mess and the madness instead of stressing over it. We explore how to shift our mindset, let go of perfection, and find joy in the imperfec…

1
Introducing: Let's Begin with Jenna Arnold 35:08

9M ago35:08

35:08

Today we’re sharing an episode of another podcast we think you’ll love: Let’s Begin with Jenna Arnold. If you’ve found yourself overwhelmed by the complexity of parenting while maintaining your own sense of self, we hope you’ll check out this show! Hosted by activist, author, and mother, Jenna Arnold, in partnership with the early learning experts …

1
My First Glossika Experiments 2:50

9M ago2:50

2:50

Follow my blog: https://thelanguagelab.pika.page Find me elsewhere: https://www.instagram.com/thelanguagelaboratory/ https://mastodon.social/@languagelabBy Ciyadh Wells

1
What's Making Us Happy This Holiday Season: Episode 495 52:11

10M ago52:11

52:11

We have bright spots of joy to share today! From apparel to décor, books to beverages, and an extremely festive toilet, Meagan and Sarah share what’s making us happy this holiday season. We’re on break for the next four weeks while the team takes over the mic, so come ring out 2024 with us in silly, festive, more-than-mom fashion. Happy Holidays! W…

1
On Jewelry, Midlife Adornment, And Treating Ourselves To Shiny Objects 1:00:19

10M ago1:00:19

1:00:19

From sentimental pieces we've lost to new styles we’re drawn to, today’s episode is all about our changing relationship with accessories. Meagan and Sarah explore everything from the family stories held by a Christmas tree brooch, to how we feel about statement pieces and right-hand rings. We wrap things up with a fun lightning round about our curr…

1
Holding On & Letting Go For The Holidays: Episode 494 54:39

10M ago54:39

54:39

As our kids grow up, holiday traditions start to shift; as they enter adulthood and begin their own lives, the shifts get even bigger and they’re naturally accompanied by all kinds of feelings. Join Meagan and Sarah as we share honest thoughts on how we envision ‘holiday mom life’ evolving over the next few decades. We look back at our own young ad…

1
Introducing: ‘Tis The Grinch Holiday Podcast 6:42

10M ago6:42

6:42

Christmas AGAIN?? Join the Grinch in stubbornly refusing the joys of the season with season 2 of ‘Tis The Grinch Holiday Podcast! Broadcasting straight from Whoville, with the help of his producer Cindy and loyal dog Max, Grinch is back to rant against Christmas cheer and roast celebrity guests like chestnuts on an open fire. Starring Saturday Nigh…

1
In Which I Bought Some French Books 7:11

10M ago7:11

7:11

Sharing some books I bought at a recent French Library sale.By Ciyadh Wells

1
The Life-Changing Magic Of Opting Out AND Of Arbitrary Rules: Episode 493 [Classic Replay Double Feature!] 1:19:14

10M ago1:19:14

1:19:14

It's Thanksgiving week here in the U.S., and we're welcoming you around our tables with not one but TWO classic episodes from the archives. Enjoy the double-feature, and we'll talk to you soon! The Life-Changing Magic Of Opting Out (Episode 161) No one mom “does it all”–or so we’re told. But what exactly DON’T we do? In Episode 161 Meagan and Sarah…

TIS Books Podcasts