On this very special season finale of the 4M Podcast, Mel & Miranda share why they weren't able to publish an episode last week... once you hear, you'll understand! You know, every now and then we all need a break for some "self care," but sometimes "self care" goes too far and can actually become incredibly toxic!! The Gal Pals unpack some "health" trends that may not be healthy at all, at least not in the opinion of these two overworked mommas! Tune in and learn why diet culture, positive vibes only, and "treat yo self" may actually be doing more harm than good for your mental health and authentic relationships. Mix it all up with some ghost stories, a lesbian punk rock band, and waaaay too many old fashioneds, and you've got a pretty fantastic season finale of the Motherhood, Mayhem, and Medical Mysteries Podcast! #selfcare #workingmoms #treatyoself #positivevibesonly #motherhood

SOURCES:

https://www.buzzfeed.com/hannahloewentheil/toxic-self-care-trends

SPOTLIGHT:

All the Mayhem Mommas out there who spend time with us every week! That's right! We're looking at you!! Now get out and vote ;)

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Have you ever gone on autopilot trying to get everything done only for it to result in a #momfail? Miranda is right there with you. In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Mayhem Mommas revisit a topic that is important for us all-- breast cancer and prevention. Mel shares some encouraging findings from a very recent study and Miranda discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle (even if it involves an adult beverage every now and then) to reduce our risk of breast cancer.

Spotlight:

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation

https://www.bcrf.org/

Our mission is to prevent and cure breast cancer by advancing the world’s most promising research.

Sources:

Mel-

https://www.bcrf.org/statistics-resources/

https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/breast-cancer-facts-and-figures/2022-2024-breast-cancer-fact-figures-acs.pdf

https://www.health.harvard.edu/cancer/early-breast-cancer-survival-rates-increasing

Miranda-

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/5-ways-to-boost-breast-health/

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In this episode, Mel and Miranda dive into two important health topics that are impacting many families today. Mel kicks things off by unraveling the mystery behind long COVID—what it is, why it's so tricky to diagnose, and the ways it affects those who are struggling with ongoing symptoms. It’s a complicated topic, but Mel breaks it down in a relatable way that’ll make you feel informed and empowered. Next, Miranda shifts the conversation to the growing concern of childhood obesity. She explores why it's become so common, the factors contributing to this trend, and, most importantly, what we as parents can do to help prevent it. Miranda offers practical tips and reassures us that small changes can make a big difference in our kids’ health. Join us for an honest, supportive, and informative chat—because we're all in this journey together, mama!

#longCOVID #COVID19 #childhoodobesity #womenshealth #childrenshealth #parenting

SPOTLIGHT:

Pandemic Patients

https://pandemicpatients.org/

Pandemic Patients is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that works to relieve the harm caused by COVID-19 and post-COVID conditions. The founders launched Pandemic Patients with the goal of providing support and services to those who have been affected by COVID-19. Pandemic Patients accomplishes this mission by raising awareness about COVID-19 and Post-COVID Conditions, advocating for change at the state and federal level, and providing educational resources and updates about the coronavirus pandemic to the public. In 2022, Pandemic Patients launched the Pandemic Legal Assistance Network (PLAN) and the COVID-19 Advocacy Center. PLAN serves as a vital resource for people affected by COVID-19 by connecting them with a network of attorneys who can provide pro bono legal assistance. The COVID-19 Advocacy Center is a hub for advocates to learn about opportunities to engage with public policy and connect with their elected officials.

SOURCES:

Mel-

https://pandemicpatients.org/

Miranda-

https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/php/data-research/childhood-obesity-facts.html

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/childhood-obesity/symptoms-causes/syc-20354827

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9467-obesity-in-children

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This week, the Gal Pals are grinning ear to ear and excited to teach you all about... teeth!! Miranda unpacks the history of the Tooth Fairy, why kids lose their teeth, and what to do with those pearly whites after you-- I mean the "Tooth Fairy"-- carefully extracts them from under the pillow! Then, Mel delves into some common dental displeasures, including cavities, root canals, and more! Mix it up with some mayhem stories about those chompers and this episode will surely leave a smile on your face!!

SPOTLIGHT:

www.americastoothfairy.org

America's Tooth Fairy

America's ToothFairy: National Children's Oral Health Foundation (NCOHF) was founded in 2006 as a collaborative effort of clinicians, academicians, corporate leaders and caring individuals to address the children’s oral health crisis.

SOURCES:

Mel-

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475

https://www.colgate.com/en-us/oral-health/mouth-and-teeth-anatomy/how-many-teeth-do-we-have#

https://www.adea.org/GoDental/Health_Professions_Advisors/History_of_Dentistry.aspx

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21759-root-canal

Miranda-

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/when-do-kids-start-losing-teeth

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/origins-tooth-fairy-180949746/

https://history.howstuffworks.com/history-vs-myth/tooth-fairy.htm

https://homecleaningfamily.com/what-to-do-with-baby-teeth/

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In this week’s fun and informative episode, Mel dives into the strange sensations of restless leg syndrome, giving listeners the lowdown on this common but quirky condition, while Miranda opens up about the tough topic of childhood bullying and how moms can empower their kids to navigate it. The dynamic duo is also joined by a special guest who’s in the thick of pregnancy and dishes on the unexpected comments and side-eye she’s been getting from strangers. It’s a relatable and hilarious chat that every mom will appreciate! Grab your beer, wine, or soda that's gone flat because it sat on the counter too long while you simultaneously cleaned the house and entertained the kiddos, and join us for another great episode!! #bullying #restlesslegsyndrome #pregnancy #stompoutbullying #parenting #momfails #momlife

SPOTLIGHT:

Stomp Out Bullying

https://www.stompoutbullying.org/

SOURCES:

Mel-

https://www.webmd.com/brain/restless-legs-syndrome/restless-legs-syndrome-rls

Miranda-

https://www.mhanational.org/bullying-tips-parents

https://www.stopbullying.gov/cyberbullying/what-is-it

https://www.centerforsafeschools.org/bullying-prevention/bp-tips-for-parents-and-caregivers/

https://answers.childrenshospital.org/parents-of-bullies/

https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/bullies.html

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How many times has your grocery store pick-up messed up your order in a major way and caused cataclysmic calamities?? Mel shares about her recent experience, which resulted in a surprising amount of free cheese! Then, Miranda walks us through how we can help our kiddos cultivate a "growth mindset," which is proven to increase perseverance and persistence. Lastly, Mel uncovers some recent scary trends about measles, which is on the rise in the United States. Learn about this tragic disease and the importance of prevention on this week's episode of the 4M Podcast!!

SPOTLIGHT:

https://vaccinemakers.org

The Vaccine Makers Project

The Vaccine Makers Project (VMP) is committed to public education about vaccine science via scientifically supported, historically accurate and emotionally compelling content. To this end, the VMP has developed a variety of school-based curricula to educate students about how the immune system works, how diseases develop and how vaccines work to prevent them.

SOURCES:

Mel-

https://apnews.com/article/measles-cdc-outbreak-chicago-mmr-vaccine-7ecdfef41e6dbd659c7ac8b80d5de38f

https://www.cdc.gov/measles/about/history.html

https://www.cdc.gov/measles/about/index.html

Miranda-

https://www.growthmindsetinstitute.org/2018/07/17/growth-mindset-parenting/

https://www.edweek.org/leadership/opinion-carol-dweck-revisits-the-growth-mindset/2015/09

https://bingschool.stanford.edu/news/carol-dweck-praising-intelligence-costs-childrens-self-esteem-and-motivation

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(Re-release) On this special episode, join Mel & Miranda as Mel discusses illnesses often faced by first responders, and the long-term impacts still felt by those who survived and responded to the 9/11 Tragedy over 20 years ago. Miranda shares some tips on how to prepare for a successful parent- teacher conference... even though she may have missed one or two on accident... oops!

SPOTLIGHT:

World Trade Center Health Program

The WTC Health Program is dedicated to helping those who were there during and after the attacks of September 11, 2001. The Program provides services to individuals who meet their requirements.

https://www.cdc.gov/wtc

Feal Good Foundation

The mission of the FGF includes educating elected officials and private entities on the various problems, concerns and issues faced by First Responders in their everyday duties. The FGF is therefore dedicated to advocating for First Responder rights and illuminating, to proper authorities, the serious issues they encounter.

https://fealgoodfoundation.com/

SOURCES:

Mel-

https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_effects_arising_from_the_September_11_attacks

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/health-effects-of-9-11-still-plague-responders-and-survivors/

Miranda-

https://www.verywellfamily.com/expect-at-parent-teacher-conference-3545346

https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/parent-conferences.html

https://www.edutopia.org/article/5-strategies-successful-parent-teacher-conference

https://www.varsitytutors.com/blog/5+things+to+do+after+a+parentteacher+conference

https://www.readingrockets.org/topics/parent-engagement/articles/surviving-difficult-parent-teacher-conference

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This week on the podcast, we’re diving into the final stretch of pregnancy—yes, the third trimester! We’ll cover everything from your baby’s growth spurt (and the epic hiccups that come with it) to what’s happening with your body as it prepares for the big day. Plus, Mel unpacks the mystery of VBACs: what it’s like to go for a vaginal birth after a C-section, and weighing the pros and cons so you’re totally in the know. Tune in for a blend of laughs, real talk, and all the info you need to finish your pregnancy journey strong!

Spotlight:

Every Mother Counts

https://everymothercounts.org/

Every Mother Counts’ mission is to make pregnancy and childbirth safe, equitable, and respectful for every mother, everywhere.

Sources:

Mel-

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/21687-vaginal-birth-after-cesarean-vbac

Miranda-

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/third-trimester

https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/fetal-development/art-20045997

https://www.webmd.com/baby/third-trimester-of-pregnancy

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