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Recent episodes
Ep. 409: Impulsive Decisions
May 4, 2026
Unknown duration
Ep. 408: Land Cruise
Apr 27, 2026
Unknown duration
Ep. 407: What's in Your Bag?
Apr 20, 2026
50m 05s
Ep. 406: Mom Hacks for Homework, Laundry, Lost Keys and More!
Apr 13, 2026
1h 00m 12s
Ep. 405: ADHD in Kids and Parents
Apr 6, 2026
1h 15m 13s
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| Date | Episode | Topics | Guests | Brands | Places | Keywords | Sponsor | Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5/4/26 |  Ep. 409: Impulsive Decisions | Laura reports on her family's rocky journey home from Mexico and the effects it had on her kids, and Shanna talks about how her daughter's adorable Easter egg hunt took an unexpected turn. Also, in the special segment "Throwback," Shanna shares two stories about how her impulsive decisions as a child disrupted her family's vacations. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including a long-overdue errand Laura finally checked off her list and a spontaneous project Cece took on that made Shanna's heart sing. Shanna's kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura's kids are 7 years old and 5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:• How to keep your kids occupied during a long travel day• Handling sibling jealousy during spring break• Taking kids to birthday parties when they're overtired and dysregulated• Sending your kids to day camp during school breaks• Impulsive childhood decisions• When best-laid vacation plans go wrong• Letting your child take ownership of a projectProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:• Johnny Rockets (Restaurant in the Cancun airport)• "Meat tenderizer in the acute treatment of imported fire ant stings" - Article from the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1987• Pinetop, Arizona - Where Shanna's family vacationed• Best Jewelry and Watch Repair, Glendale — Laura's ring resizing recommendationPast BFP episodes mentioned in this episode:• Ep. 386 - Where Shanna shares the hack of keeping an Oh Shit kit in your car• Ep. 397 - Where Shanna talks about her girls attending "field trip" camp over winter break• Ep. 408 - Where Laura shares a Throwback story about the time her family went on vacation to an all-inclusive Club Med resort in MexicoConnect with Us:• Become a Patreon member to access ad-free episodes, bonus content, live hangouts and more! patreon.com/bfppodcast• Follow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcast• Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.• Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.com• Email us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com• Send us a voice message: speakpipe.com/bfppodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 4/27/26 | Ep. 408: Land Cruise | In the special segment "Throwback," Laura recounts a family trip to Club Med in Mexico when she was 13 that involved hypnosis, trapeze and forbidden love. Also, Shanna faces the consequences of packing too many family plans into one Saturday, and Laura shares the revelation that allowed her to fully enjoy her family's spring-break trip to Mexico. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week, including late-night tooth trauma and more. Shanna's kids are 7 and 10 years old, and Laura's kids are 7 years old and 5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:• Over-planning your weekend (and paying the price)• Travelling with a selective/picky eater• Vacationing at an all-inclusive resort with kids• Growing up at 13: crushes, trapeze, and the last family trip before everything changed• Dog training: getting the whole family on the same page• Dental health hacks for people who hate flossingProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:• Dreams Aventuras Riviera Maya - The all-inclusive resort Laura and fam stayed at during their vacation in Mexico• Agoutis - the cute critters Laura's family saw during their trip• Waterpik Sonic-Fusion 2.0 toothbrush - The toothbrush Laura uses that gets her a gold star at the dentistPast BFP episodes mentioned in this episode:• Ep. 281 - Where Laura shares a Throwback story about the time her family found what they thought was a baby osprey while vacationing on the Jersey shore.Connect with Us:• Become a Patreon member to access ad-free episodes, bonus content, live hangouts and more! patreon.com/bfppodcast• Follow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcast• Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.• Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.com• Email us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com• Send us a voice message: speakpipe.com/bfppodcastIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 4/20/26 | Ep. 407: What's in Your Bag?✨ | Transitioning your child to a new classroom mid-yearKids' sports: what to expect from Little League at age 7+6 | — | OwalaSavannah Bananas+11 | San DiegoSouthern California | — | — | 50m 05s | |
| 4/13/26 | Ep. 406: Mom Hacks for Homework, Laundry, Lost Keys and More!✨ | Handling your kids' extracurricular activity schedulesWhat is occupational therapy?+4 | — | iPhoneWheel of Names+12 | — | — | — | 1h 00m 12s | |
| 4/6/26 | Ep. 405: ADHD in Kids and Parents✨ | ADHD in kidsParenting kids with ADHD+6 | — | The ADHD Parenting PodcastTikTok+9 | — | Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorderparenting+2 | — | 1h 15m 13s | |
| 3/30/26 | Ep. 404: Can I Get My Kids to Do Chores?✨ | Implementing a reward system at home with your kidsHaving your kids do chores around the house+6 | — | Kallaloo! A Caribbean TaleStone Soup folk story+7 | — | — | — | 55m 24s | |
| 3/23/26 | Ep. 403: Tooth Talk, Jump Scares and FOMO✨ | What to do when your kid loses a tooth right before bedWhat happens when your kid loses a tooth at school+5 | — | Rainbow Loom kitTikTok+3 | VegasLas Vegas | — | — | 44m 42s | |
| 3/16/26 | Ep. 402: Just You Wait✨ | Following through on something scary and being proud of yourselfGoing to the ENT to discuss ear tubes for your child+8 | — | family board gameThe Allowance Game+5 | — | — | — | 50m 02s | |
| 3/9/26 | Ep. 401: Haunted by the Past✨ | Signing your kid up for an extracurricular activity that requires a big time commitmentDads taking the lead on planning activities for the kids+8 | — | TikTokFacebook+3 | — | — | — | 55m 53s | |
| 3/2/26 | Ep. 400: 400th Episode: You Asked, We Answered✨ | Celebrating 400 episodes of Big Fat PositiveBig birthday milestones+6 | — | Speakpipe - Leave us a voice message!Speakpipe+10 | — | — | — | 59m 34s | |
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| 2/23/26 | Ep. 399: Breaking Up With Your Mom Group✨ | A spontaneous after-school adventure with your kidsWhen your kid starts planning their own social life+5 | — | Percy Jackson book seriesDisney++6 | Los AngelesHuntington Gardens+1 | — | — | 54m 21s | |
| 2/16/26 | Ep. 398: Embracing "Mom Mode"✨ | Adjusting to life after leaving your job and figuring out what's nextGiving yourself permission to have a “fallow period” after a big work/life shift+6 | — | Zootopia 2citric acid+4 | — | — | — | 45m 37s | |
| 2/9/26 | Ep. 397: Old-School Pregnancy Tests | In the special segment “Stump the Moms,” Laura and Shanna quiz each other about old-school pregnancy tests, the shocking resale value of kids' toys, the cost of giving birth in the 1950s and more! Also, Laura reports on the sweet relief of her kids returning to school after winter break and her 4-year-old getting his first eye exam, and Shanna talks about the surprising result of sending her kids to a week-long "field trip" camp. Finally, they wrap up with their weekly BFPs and BFNs, including a toy that will excite your kids for bath time and a sweet local event that will inspire you to check the activity calendar at your local library. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:Returning to school after a long winter breakWhat to do with your kids during an extended winter breakHow long, busy days outside of the house affect your child's mood and regulationHow much did it cost to have a baby in the 1950sWhy are some LEGO sets so expensive?What was the first pregnancy test like?What kids' toy was originally created for adults?How many LEGO bricks are there in the world?A fun bath toy for kids that Laura lovesA fun, local, free activity that Shanna took her kids toProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:"It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" by Bing CrosbyInfantSEE - Infant eye exam program Steve & Kate's CampGlendale Central LibrarySkyZone Trampoline Park"How Much Does It Cost to Have a Baby Now?"Ole Kirk's LEGO HouseLEGO Unicef VanStar Wars Death Star LEGO setThe Rabbit Test"10 Wacky Facts About Play-Doh That Will Amaze You"Bath Bomb Potion KitBARK Reading DogsConnect with UsFollow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.comEmail us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 2/2/26 | Ep. 396: Can Laura Pull Off This Birthday Surprise? | In the special segment “What I Googled This Week,” Shanna and Laura reveal the funny and embarrassing things they've asked the internet recently, including a ridiculously juvenile question about astronomy and an out-of-the-ordinary query about a popular theme park. Also, Shanna checks in about a major life transition happening during a chaotic holiday week, and Laura talks about the big surprise she planned for Auggie's 7th birthday. Finally, they wrap up with their weekly BFPs and BFNs, including an outing that made the kids feel like they’d entered a magical new world and a holiday family tradition. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 7 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:Experiencing a big work/life change while still in full holiday-parent modeStruggling to get your kids to take medicineAuggie's 7th birthdayPulling off a big surprise for your kidTips for going to Disneyland in the rainWhat's the right way to pronounce “Uranus”Do kids these days go to bookstores?Taking your family to a fun holiday light showProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:Disneyland California resident ticket deal“We Don’t Wear Ears” (Disney tips Instagram account)Waterproof stroller coverInsoles for rain bootsMEL Magazine article about UranusThe Open Book bookstoreThe Last BookstoreDescanso Gardens Enchanted LightsPast BFP episodes referenced in this episode:Ep. 364 (Where Shanna teaches Cece how to swallow pills)Ep. 257 (Where Shanna struggles to get Cece to take medication)Connect with UsFollow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.comEmail us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 1/26/26 | Ep. 395: Stroller Envy | In the special segment "Gripe Water," Shanna and Laura share the hilariously petty parenting problems that have been bothering them lately, diving into the topics of stroller envy and screen time. Also, Laura reports on the people, gifts and baked goods that made her Christmas special, and Shanna talks about managing a hectic, cooped-up holiday week with a sick kid. Finally, they wrap up with their weekly BFPs and BFNs, including a fun family outing and an indoor activity that unexpectedly became a big hit. Shanna’s kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:A low-key, rainy Christmas week and what it’s like hosting visiting family (and dogs)Parenting your sick child during the holidaysStroller envy: missing the days when you had a mobile cart for all your kid gearManaging kids’ video game obsession, meltdowns, and tough transitionsProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:Harry Potter Lego setsFive Nights at Freddy's kids costumeCaptain America kids costumeAir drum sticksAmerica's Test Kitchen gingerbread cookiesPottery wheel for kidsSchool kit from Lakeshore LearningNex PlaygroundChemex carafeCuisanart water kettleHulken bagPickwick Ice CenterRansom Notes gameConnect with UsFollow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.comEmail us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 1/19/26 | Ep. 394: Advocating for Your Child at the Doctor | In the special segment "Never Have I Ever: Parenting Edition," Laura and Shanna reveal the unexpected things they've never done before having kids, including a desperate attempt to complete a puzzle in inclement weather and a disturbing doctor's appointment that ended in tears. Also, Shanna talks about her attempts to have a low-key Christmas, and Laura reports on her family's festive week of ice dancing and dreidel spinning. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:Last-minute holiday decorating and keeping expectations lowA kid getting sick right before Christmas and deciding when to go to urgent careTaking your kids to festive holiday eventsCelebrating Hanukkah with friendsWhen you realize you are doing something wacky and unreasonable as a parentTough doctor visits with kidsNavigating fear, consent and advocating for your child in a medical settingHow kids misunderstand medical “threats” and why wording mattersA funny public moment involving a kids’ character and an unexpected song choiceVolunteering at your kid's school and reading a funny picture book to your kid's classA parenting win: getting your kid re-engaged in an extracurricular activityProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:Disney on IceHow to Play DreidelKanoodle - Brain Teaser PuzzleMuseum of IllusionsBlippi"Fat Bottomed Girls" by Queen"The Book That Almost Rhymed" by Omar AbedPast BFP episodes mentioned in this episode:Ep. 379 - (Shanna talks about going to the Museum of Illusions)Ep. 358 - (Laura talks about Auggie quitting parkour and starting jiu-jitsu)Connect with UsFollow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.comEmail us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 1/12/26 | Ep. 393: Are We Accidentally Creating Second-Child Syndrome? | In the special segment "Dear Past Me," Shanna and Laura give their former selves parenting advice based on what they know now, including wisdom about sentimental baby items and encouragement to advocate for yourself in the early days of new motherhood. Also, Laura manages to get her reluctant kids to go on an urban adventure, and Shanna celebrates her daughter's 7th birthday and travels to Phoenix with her family for a celebration-of-life event. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 7 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:Finding outdoor adventures close to home for your familyThe difficulty of transitions with kidsAttending a memorial/celebration of life and what it’s like to do meaningful rituals with kidsReflections on early parenting choices and what we wish we could tell our younger selvesWhy keeping up with milestone keepsakes for all your kids is importantNavigating career and creativity opportunities as a new momAnti-mom bias at work and within creative spaces, and why advocating for yourself mattersKids exploring the performing arts and the joy of seeing them come alive creativelyFinding helpful online communities and learning new routines that are rewardingProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:Flint Peak Trail"Big Fish" movieThe Baby-Sitter's Club #33: "Claudia and the Great Search""Flashback" (Shanna's short film)Shanna's WebsiteFine Hair SubredditPomeranian SubredditPast BFP episodes mentioned in this episode:Ep. 283 - (Laura discusses Auggie's reluctance to participate in his school's theater production)Ep. 285 - (Laura reports on Auggie's refusal to participate in the theater production on the day of the show)Ep. 374 - (Laura talks about her boys getting excited about their hiking "costumes" in Portland)Ep. 376 - (Shanna talks about her stepdad's passing)Connect with UsFollow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.comEmail us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 1/5/26 | Ep. 392: The Surprising History of the Tooth Fairy | In the special segment "Today I Learned," Laura and Shanna discuss the fascinating or unusual things they have learned about recently, including an unexpected baby boom on a remote island in the South Pacific and the surprising history of the Tooth Fairy. Also, Shanna shares the details about her daughter's 7th birthday party, and Laura reports on her experience babysitting Shanna's kids. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:Throwing kids' birthday parties with DIY flairFun ideas for a 7-year-old's birthday partyGetting kids together for a cozy “fake sleepover” nightReality TV crews, on-set romances and an unexpected family-friendly workplaceThe origins of the Tooth Fairy and the traditions that came before herWhether or not to send your kids to day camp over the winter breakDiscovering and using your employer's benefits for subsidized childcareWhen your child shows sudden changes in independence, fears and anxietyProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:6-7 trendPusheen the cat"Captain Underpants" moviePeople Magazine article: The Real Love Island? Survivor Crew Romances Have Led to 67 Babies...""Survivor" TV showForbes article: Where Did the Tooth Fairy Come From?Developmental leaps in childrenPast BFP episodes mentioned in this episode:Ep. 383 - (Shanna and Laura discuss the origins of the 6-7 trend)Connect with UsFollow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.comEmail us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 12/29/25 | Ep. 391: 2025 Wrap-Up: Our Biggest Laughs, Struggles and What We Didn’t See Coming | As 2025 comes to an end, Laura and Shanna reflect on their last 12 months of parenting with honesty, humor and insight in the special segment "Year in Review." As they look back on 2025, they share their biggest laughs, unexpected wins and surprising realizations, including the hilarious thing Laura's kids taught her this year, the shocking incident that sums up the vibe of Shanna's year, their favorite shows of 2025 and more! Also, Laura reports on her family's recent trip to Hawaii, and Shanna talks about how she got her kids involved in Thanksgiving meal prep. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:Taking a family trip with kids (the good, the chaotic and the realistic expectations)Thanksgiving routines that feel doable instead of overwhelmingLetting kids help more at home, especially during the holidays, and why that matters"Mommy Magic" and making the invisible work visible for our kidsLooking back at 2025 and reflecting on what this year actually felt likeSmall parenting wins that didn’t feel like a big deal at the timeThings our kids taught us this year (sometimes on purpose, sometimes not)Finding ways to have fun again as adults, not just planning fun for our kidsNavigating change, transitions and feeling pulled in a million directionsMedia, shows and pop culture that brought comfort, laughter or escapeLooking ahead to the new year with intentions about how we want to feelA vacation activity that will create a core memoryA fun board game to play with your familyProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:-Pasadena's Celebration of the Young Child-"Your Friend, Nate Bargatze" special on Netflix-Lita the dog on TikTok-Clara Batten on TikTok-Perimenopause-Baader-Meinhof phenomenon (aka Frequency Illusion)-Rainbow Baby-"Five Nights at Freddy's"-"Ordinary" by Alex Warren-"Severance"-"The Chair Company"-"The Carpool Detectives"-Snorkle Bob's-Humuhumunukunukuapua'a fish-TelestrationsPast BFP episodes mentioned in this episode:-Ep. 362 - (Shanna gets a concussion from a soccer ball)-Ep. 381 - (Laura hosts a booth at the Pasadena Celebration of the Young Child)-Ep. 221 - (Shanna and Laura go to a rage room) -Ep. 378 - (Laura adopts her new kitten, Pumpkin)-Ep. 355 - (Shanna tells her daughter about the Leprechaun and Santa)-Ep. 356 - (Where Shanna tells her daughter about being a "Rainbow Baby")Connect with UsFollow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.comEmail us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 12/22/25 | Ep. 390: Holiday Q&A: Traditions, Santa, Gifts and More! | It’s Christmas week, and Shanna and Laura get festive answering listeners' holiday-themed questions in the special segment "Checkin' the Inbox!" They answer questions about handling the logistics of Santa, managing sibling jealousy during the gift-giving season, whether to do Elf on the Shelf and more! During the check-in, they share their families' plans for the holiday and discuss their gift ideas for their kids, their husbands (and each other!). In the special segment "Checkin' the Inbox: Holiday Q&A," Laura and Shanna. Finally, they share their BFPs or BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:Navigating holiday overwhelm while juggling work, parenting and year-end transitionsShould I keep Christmas plans low-key and realistic or go all-out?Holiday activities that help kids burn energy (and parents stay sane)Navigating the mental load of gift-giving and holiday expectationsHow kids’ interests change faster than we can shopWhether or not to exchange gifts with other adultsThe pressure to give “perfect” gifts vs. embracing simpler onesFamily traditions we carried over from childhood - and new ones we’re creating nowHoliday light displays as a new seasonal traditionElf on the Shelf: love it, hate it, or skip it entirelyHow different families handle SantaBig gifts vs. small gifts (and who should get the credit)Fairness, siblings and navigating different ages during the holidaysDeciding which holiday expectations are actually worth the effortBlending holiday traditions from different backgroundsFinding ways to make the season feel special without overdoing itProducts, links, and resources mentioned in this episode:-Tiny Chef-Descanso Gardens Enchanted Forest of Lights-LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow-5 Nights at Freddy's Costume-Harry Potter Legos-Kids Pottery Wheel-Labubu-Menorahs at Target-The Boar's Head Carol-The Alex TheaterPast BFP episodes mentioned in this episode:-Ep. 343 - (Where Shanna talks about giving her kids a trampoline for Christmas)Connect with UsFollow us on social: Instagram, TikTok or Facebook at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website: bigfatpositivepodcast.comEmail us: contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.comIf you enjoyed this episode, help spread the word by sharing the show or leaving a review. Thank you!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 12/15/25 | Ep. 389: Metamorphosis | In the special segment "Would You Rather," Shanna and Laura present hypothetical parenting situations and then discuss which choices they would rather make, diving into the topics of bringing your kids to your own doctor's appointments, handling your kids' questionable choices in music and more! Also, Laura reports on her 6-year-old's first week at his brand-new school, and Shanna gives an update on the caterpillar that her first grader unexpectedly brought home a few weeks ago. Finally, Laura and Shanna share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:-When you child starts a new school in the middle of the school year-When your child brings home a caterpillar to take care of and observe turn into a butterfly -Should I take my kids to my doctor's appointment with me?-When your kids constantly request music that you don't want to hear-Unexpected drama that prevents you from leaving the house on time with your kids-Taking life expectancy into consideration when getting a new pet for your familyProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:-Caterpillar to Butterfly Grow Kits-"Jaws Original Motion Picture Soundtrack" by John Williams-"Beetlejuice Original Motion Picture Soundtrack" by Danny Elfman-"My Bum Is Itchy" song by Poopy Man-"Macaroni with the Chicken Strips" song by Undignified Baby-Hamster Rolling Ball toy-Ball python lifespan-"Good to Go: A Fresh Take on Potty Training for Today's Intentional Parent" by Gia Gambaro Blount and Laura Birek-Amanda Troop, Voiceover ArtistPast BFP episodes mentioned in this episode:-Ep. 258 (Where Shanna talks about the softball party disaster when Cece was four)This episode's full show notes can be found here.Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 12/8/25 | Ep. 388: Making Tough Decisions | In the special segment "Big Topic," Laura shares a difficult decision she made recently that affects her entire family. She discusses the first moment that her gut instinct signalled that things were amiss in this particular situation as well as the events leading up to the decision. Also, Shanna talks about a smaller scale, but still significant, tough choice she recently made to take care of herself. Finally, Laura and Shanna share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:-Making tough decisions to take care of yourself and your kids-Learning from your past mistakes as a mom-Knowing when to trust your gut as a mom-What to do when your child is having a hard time at school-How to talk to your kids about a big change-Two fantastic, funny picture books for kidsProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:-Doheny State Beach Campsite-"Bathe the Cat" by Alice B. McGinty, Illustrated by David Roberts-"Strange Planet: The Sneaking, Hiding, Vibrating Creature" by Nathan W. Pyle-Nathan W. Pyle on InstagramThis episode's full show notes can be found here.Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 12/1/25 | Ep. 387: Out of Context | In the brand-new special segment "Out of Context," Laura and Shanna share random text messages they have sent or received that shed light on their parenting life, diving into the topics of kids' crushes, classroom behavior, time management and more! Also, Laura reflects on her surprising feelings about staying up late with her kids, and Shanna reports on the situation that put her kids' Halloween party in peril. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:-Should I let my kids stay up late for special occasions?-Throwing a Halloween party for your kids-Being sick as a parent and pushing yourself too hard-Feeling overwhelmed by the amount of communication it requires to be a parent-Receiving a report from your kid's teacher that they have misbehaved at school-Lurking on your kids' social media posts-Trying not to act too excited when your selective eater tries new foods-A fun, family-friendly activity in Los Angeles-Feeling unsure when your kid brings home an intensive project from schoolProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:-Minecraft movie-"Steve's Lava Chicken" song-Zankou Chicken-Swan Boat Rides at Echo ParkThis episode's full show notes can be found here.Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 11/24/25 | Ep. 386: Is My Child Being Bullied? | In the special segment "What the Hack?!," Shanna and Laura share some of their favorite parenting tips and tricks, including ideas for preventing toddlers from knocking over valuable items, being prepared when you're in the car with your kids, using honey bears in a fun way and more! Also, Laura reports on the unsettling reports she has been getting from her 6-year-old's school, Shanna discusses her attempt to power through her recovery from a recent illness, and both moms share their families' plans for Thanksgiving this year. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:-Laura and Shanna's plans for Thanksgiving this year with their families-Parenting while sick and trying to push through the recovery phase-Finding out your child is being bullied at school-Tips, tricks and hacks for making your parenting life easier-Disappointment about not being able to follow through on a commitment-Fun how-to drawing books for kidsProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:-Clear Museum Gel-Tissue box hack-Flashlight metaphor for pain management-Using honey bears in the shower-Rice-cooker pasta-The Food Lab: Better Home Cooking Through Science by J. Kenji López-Alt -Choking-hazard check-"Let's Draw Aliens and Spaceships with Crayola!" by Kathy Allen (Author) and Neil Clark (Illustrator)-"Ed Emberley's How to Draw Monsters and More Scary Stuff" by Ed Emberley-Cookbook stand (to use for holding kids' drawing books)This episode's full show notes can be found here.Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website!Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
| 11/17/25 | Ep. 385: AI Did Me Dirty! | In the special segment “Mom Confessions,” Laura and Shanna share the embarrassing or hilarious parenting experiences they have had recently, including a destructive laundry mishap, an inappropriate AI encounter and more! Also, Shanna reports on how she is managing sciatic nerve pain, and Laura discusses her realization that she now has an "edgy" older kid. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6.5 and 9.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6.5 years old and 4.5 years old.Topics discussed in this episode:-When your kids do things that seem mature beyond their years-What to do if you have sciatic nerve pain-Laundry mistakes-Going to great lengths to avoid saying "no" to your kids-Feeling embarrassed about the way you send your kid to school-When AI steers you wrong-Revamping your kid's bedroom without spending moneyProducts, links, resources mentioned in this episode:-Kids' Ghostface costume-What is sciatica?-Warmies Lavender Plush Bear-"Good to Go: A Fresh Take on Potty Training for Today's Intentional Parent" by Gia Gambaro Blount and Laura BirekThis episode's full show notes can be found here.Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcastJoin our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey.Visit our website!This episode is sponsored by Inito. If you're trying to conceive or just want to understand more about your body and your cycles, try Inito: https://try.inito.com/hormone-tracking/inf/?discount=BFP&utm_source=social_media&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=podcast&utm_content=BFPBig Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | — | ||||||
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Chart Positions
14 placements across 12 markets.
Chart Positions
14 placements across 12 markets.