Kristin has returned from her family "vacation" to Disney World and has the stories to prove it!

This episode is sponsored by Sleep Number. To find a Sleep Number store near you, call 1-800-995-4177. And please, be sure to tell them the Manic Mommies sent you. 

What do you get when Kristin has one foot out the door for a family vacation to Disney World and Erin is so tired from a week at her new job she can barely hold up her microphone? A podcast filled with totally random stories of bathings suits and blue jeans, dirty pajamas to school, packing princess dresses, Downtown Abbey, The Bachelor and Lego Friends. Could be one of our best, or one of our worst.

This week we're talking about the many adjustments taking place in Erin's house as she returns to work full time. There are meal fiascos, white-out conditions on the NY Thruway and seriously, how do other working moms find the time to get it all done?!? We also talk about the joys of being a Daisy troop leader, the recent Facebook changes (again!) and what Kristin's husband is finding of interest on Pinterest.

The Manic Mommies return after their holiday break with stories of holiday breakdowns, gift giving failures and mom-related miracles. In this super-sized edition, we also share what our Escape guests REALLY want (inspired by the presentation by Mel Robbins).

Warning: In this episode the Manic Mommies let loose with complaints (big and small). Sometimes a gal just needs to get things off her chest.

This episode is sponsored by Sleep Number. For more information about the Air Fit Pillow or to find a Sleep Number store near you, call 1-800-995-4177. And please, be sure to tell them the Manic Mommies sent you!

Escape guests met Emily Franklin, author of Too Many Cooks, and learned about how she has been able to get her four children to try new dishes and get beyond dinosaur-shaped chicken nuggets. Now, we're sharing her perspective on dinnertime, lunches and more.

This episode is sponsored by Sleep Number. For more information about the Air Fit Pillow, or to find a Sleep Number store near you, call 1-800-995-4177. And please, be sure to tell them the Manic Mommies sent you!

At this year’s Escape, some of our guests learned how they and their kids can make their own toys from author Heather Swain. Her new book, Make These Toys: 101 Clever Creations Using Everday Items, has many great ideas including wind-up trotting turkeys and mini marshmallow poppers.

This episode is sponsored by Sleep Number. For more information about the Air Fit Pillow, or to find a Sleep Number store near you, call 1-800-995-4177. And please, be sure to tell them the Manic Mommies sent you!

It's the day after Thanksgiving and Erin's family is visiting! Because the husbands are available and the kids are MIA (turns out they were visiting neighbors), we get the men to join the conversation about time management, taking care of wives post-surgical procedures, board games and more.

This episode is sponsored by Sleep Number. For more information about the Semi-Annual Sleep Number Sale, or to find a Sleep Number store near you, call 1-800-995-4177. And please, be sure to tell them the Manic Mommies sent you!

This week the show's extra long as we bringing you Mel Robbins' keynote from the Escape. The author of Stop Saying You're Fine, Discover a More Powerful You, Mel has researched and identified all the ways we keep ourselves from getting what we really want in life. From pushing the snooze button every morning, to trying to control how the dishes are loaded into the dishwasher, we can sometimes be our own worst enemies! Mel is funny, real and encourages each and every one of us to identify what we want, say it out loud, and go for it! We hope you get as much from this podcast as we all got from seeing her live.

This episode is sponsored by Sleep Number. For more information about the Semi-Annual Sleep Number Sale, or to find a Sleep Number store near you, call 1-800-995-4177. And please, be sure to tell them the Manic Mommies sent you!

It's our annual Escape podcast, recorded over breakfast at the New Orleans Marriott on Saturday. Follow the fun as we chat about the ladies' antics and then move into our "balance" panel discussion with three moms: Didi, an elementary school principal from Florida; Suzy, an engineer with GM from Michigan; and Rosa Linda a former news anchor turned video podcaster from New Mexico. How do you define balance? What's the one area of your life you wish you had more control over?

This episode is sponsored by Sleep Number. For more information about the Semi-Annual Sleep Number Sale, or to find a Sleep Number store near you, call 1-800-995-4177. And please, be sure to tell them the Manic Mommies sent you!

After catching up on the early snow fall (noooo!) and Erin's newest obsession, Scrabble, we welcome Jenna McCarthy to talk about her new book, "If It Was Easy, They'd Call the Whole Damn Thing a Honeymoon: Living with and Loving the TV-Addicted, Sex-Obsessed, Not-So-Handy Man You Married."

This episode is sponsored by Sleep Number - For more information about the Semi-Annual Sleep Number Sale, or to find a Sleep Number store near you, call 1-800-995-4177. And please, be sure to tell them the Manic Mommies sent you!

It's another Sunday morning and the Manic Mommies are catching up on what Erin cooked for supper club (who wants pumpkin soup??), forgetting birthdays, buying Halloween costumes, and more.

This episode is sponsored by Sleep Number and Genworth Financial.

When Erin's not yawning into the microphone, she and Kristin discuss losing Sophie in the mall because of texting (bad mommy), why we dislike homework, nearly meeting Erin's doppelganger, cutting off the cable and how SpongeBob Square Pants MUST be to blame for our sons' executive functioning issues.

Sometimes being a crazy busy working parent is akin to running a well-oiled machine. So what happens when there's a major system failure the same weekend the kids are on holiday from school? You guessed it! Chaos. Join us as we try to get this week's show recorded amidst sleepovers, computer crashes and sibling bickering. We also discuss why mom always did like you best.

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by Genworth Financial.

Between weddings, business travel, and planning the Escape, it's been a busy week for the Manic Mommies.

This week, Erin talks with financial advisor Danielle Prunier (from an airport club in Chicago's O'Hare airport, no less) about how to get started saving for retirement and college. If you're in the market for a financial adviser we'll tell you how to find one and why it's so important that couples be on the same page when it comes to household expenses and savings.

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by Genworth Financial.

The Manic Mommies were in New York City for the She Streams conference this weekend presenting a session on podcasting. While there, we catch up with our favorite fashionista and mom vlogger Audrey from Mom Generations who also happens to be the mother of four boys ages 3-6 and her family’s sole bread winner at the moment! Talk about doing it all and then some. Join us as we chat about how she manages her work-from-home lifestyle and what moms should wear for work, play and everything in between.

This week we welcome Susan Zirinksy, executive director, to discuss the new "must see" 48 Hours Special, "Bullying: Words Can Kill" which aired last week, but continues to be available online.

This week we mark the tenth anniversary of 9.11, discuss the endless number of forms that come home from elementary schools and announce the Road Rally to New Orleans!

The kids are heading back to school, and we're catching up on the waning days of summer, new schedules and volunteering. We also welcome Matt of i9 Sports to explain how kids can avoid concussions while enjoying their favorite athletic activities.

We're visiting Detroit - home to our friends (and sponsors) at Chevrolet, and the 14th annual Woodward Dream Cruise! During our trip we visit the OnStar Command Center, check out the new Sonic, meet some amazing moms and get "personal" with the massage chair while getting pedicures.

It was an interesting week for the Manic Mommies - Kristin shares stories of breakdowns in Target and on the rail trail, while Erin was at the vet ER getting "Spacey Casey's" bloody paw stitched up.

Kristin's sharing her stories from this week's staycation while Erin's picking up dog poop and considering future surgery on her knee. It is time for the Escape yet?

Erin's on her way to Martha's Vineyard for her annual girls' weekend (and inspiration for the Manic Mommies Escape), but before she goes we're catching up with a quick podcast recorded from Kristin's car! This week we cover early morning shoe shopping, extended hours, travel woes, television and what everyone is buying from the CVS in front of which we are parked.

The Manic Mommies are letting it all hang out and venting about all the stuff that we hate - whining/crying kids; video game music; summer homework, Barbie's career choices, shopping for toys and more.

Erin and her family stop by for a quick visit on their way to Cape Cod for a week of "vacation." As the kids wreak havoc in the house, the Mommies hide in Kristin's mom cave and catch up.

During Spark & Hustle we met Amanda Telford, the brains behind Menu Masters, a subscription meal planning service. We discuss why meal planning is such a challenge and how to to get kids to try new things.

In honor of Father's Day, we're putting the kids and the dads in the hot seat!

This week we're joined by Judy Osborne, author of Wisdom for Separated Parents: Rearranging Around Children to Keep Kinship Strong. Based on interviews with over 50 separated couples, Judy describes how separated or divorced parents who are able to create a benign emotional space for the benefit of the children will do well in the long run. Then Erin and Kristin talk about the value of a mom cave and read some listener mail.

Just when we thought our days of obsessing over poop were behind us, Erin gets a puppy and Kristin has a discussion with her doctor that's just not pretty. We're catching up on life this week and also talk about the destructive tornados in Massachusetts and how our families were impacted.

It's the night before the puppy arrives to change Erin's life forever. Before Casey arrives we discuss warnings from well-meaning friends, and Kristin's failed attempt at a 7-day sex challenge. We also interviewed Andrea Lyons, CEO and founder of Bring Back Desire, a subscription service providing erotic literature for women looking to "get out of their head and back into bed."

We've all known them: Debbie Downer, Sabotoge Susie, Helen Hater and at different times in our lives we tolerate or even welcome these women in. Author Cindy Morrison joins us this week to talk about her book "Girlfriends 2.0." Cindy tells us how to let go of the emotional vampires in our lives and push beyond our comfort zones to expand and grow our girlfriend network.

If you've ever dreamed of owning your own business, this show is for you! Recorded at Tory Johnson's Spark & Hustle Conference in Boston, we share some of the fabulous lessons learned from women living their dreams. We also chat with Mel Robbins, relationship expert and author of "Stop Saying You're Fine: Discover a More Powerful You" about the ways we hold ourselves back and how to finally break free from our own negative thinking.

Is it instinct or in our DNA? Why is it that moms seem to know best? This week we share the tried and true advice of moms (courtesy of our listeners) and talk about how to know when your child has outgrown their favorite toy, play thing or stuffed animal. We also invite working mom Araba Dowell from Chevy to the show to talk about how General Motors is working to assist tornado victims in Alabama.

We are joined by Malli Gero from 2020 Women on Boards, a grassroots initiative dedicated to raising the percentage of women on corporate boards in the U.S. to 20% or greater by the year 2020. We discuss why companies benefit from greater diversity, how women can become involved with corporate boards, and how our listeners can lend their support.

We also talk about managing spring schedules; the Royal Wedding and Sunday’s New York Times article about Quality Time, Redefined.

Don't forget to visit ManicMommies.com throughout May to enter our Mother's Month giveaways!

Sometimes moms just have to let their kids wander the neighborhood and see where life takes them...especially when they've got a podcast to record! It's like the good old days this week as Erin and Kristin get together over the holiday weekend, kick the kids outside, pour some wine and start gabbing.

You can't make this stuff up: a mom who videotapes her kid being frisked by a burly TSA agent, a boy with painted pink toe nails making headlines and a school that bans the brown bag lunch.

We're talking about parents in the news this week and offering up our uneducated, non-expert opinion on all of it. Tell us what you think!

Spring has officially sprung: the gloves, balls and cleats speckled with mud prove it. This week we're joined by Caitlin McNally, one of the producers of a new FRONTLINE documentary called "Football High" and Julie D., a listener and Pop Warner team mom to talk about the risks and rewards of youth sports.

It's not really a live show, since this was recorded on Saturday, but Erin and Kristin are together in the same room for the first time since Christmas. It was a weekend with just the moms and sons (can you guess which husband is missing due to fantasy baseball?). From kids screaming "I hate you" to school fundraisers and everything in between, we're kicking back the way we used to before hundreds of miles came between us and our living room chats.

We're joined by Caro Sheridan, co-author of Knitting It Old School: 43 Vintage-Inspired Patterns, about knitting, crafts and the "fiber arts." We also catch up on how Erin's leg is doing (she's on the mend), the small kids and second child syndrome, and Kristin's planned visit to Rochester.

It's been a week since her surgery, and Erin is on the mend, sharing stories from her recovery including how her husband described the smell in their bedroom, and what her last words were before falling under the influence of anesthesia. We also discuss Kristin's adventures at Geek Girl Boot Camp and met a listener!

It's the night before Erin's big surgery, and a couple days after Kristin was down with the flu - and the moms are catching up on how to prepare for surgery and what happens when mommy is out of commission. We also reminisce about the shows that got us in the most trouble, Charlie Sheen's downward spiral, and the first "big" meeting with the team at school.

We're back from vacation and debating the merits of a snow vs. sun getaway in February. Kristin's battling a late winter cold and Erin's getting ready to go under the knife (actually an arthroscope) but the show must go on! If you're headed to SxSW in Austin this week, we've got an exclusive opportunity for you to drive the new Chevy Volt. Details at the end of the show.

Parenthood, Modern Family, The Middle. They're some of the hottest shows on TV right now with parents taking center stage. Are the writers and producers getting it right? Do you see your marriage being played out in the characters of Claire and Phil Dunphy? This week we're joined by TV blogger and pop culture columnist Meredith O'Brien to talk about what these shows are getting right and why we're such big fans.

This week we welcome the newest member of our content team, marriage therapist Arlene. We take listener questions about what to do when mom wants to try for another baby and dad's not so sure, how couples should combine finances, how to find a good therapist and how much porn consumption is too much. Warning: this show contains adult language and is not child or work safe.

Sometimes what's happening in our lives can take over our thoughts, our actions, our precious free time. It can consume us and put our Mommy Brains into overdrive. This week Erin's obsessing about knee surgery and Kristin's received some new information about her son's learning style. Then we talk about the latest parenting controversies: do working moms make for fat kids and should teachers give grades to parents?

During her recent trip to Las Vegas for CES, Kristin caught up with fellow Intel Advisor, Alli Worthington, publisher of Blissfully Domestic and cofounder of the BlissDom Conference. They discuss managing the chaos with five boys, traveling for business and why it's okay to hire help.

This week we chat about winter sports, talk strategies for surviving snow days and take questions from our Facebook fans about Tiger mothers, how to make our husbands more romantic, and what we think of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

This week Erin and Kristin appeared on video (Gasp!) with Christine Koh on her show Life.Style on the Pulse Network. During the show we discussed, what else, but how to balance work, life, family and husbands. We also talked about the Salon.com article, the choices all parents are making, and what the impact is on moms (and dads) who may have chosen to opt out of the work force.

Special thanks to the Pulse Network for allowing us to repost the audio from the show for those listeners who don't have time to watch the show!

The Manic Mommies catch up on Kristin's recent trip to Las Vegas for CES (courtesy of Intel) including Steve's willingness to wear a Manic Mommies vest, short lines for the girls room and Kristin's interview with Mario Armstrong. While in Las Vegas, Kristin met Jen Consalvo & Frank Gruber, founders of "ThankfulFor.com" a site and app designed to help us rediscover all we have to be thankful for.

It's vacation week and Erin and Kristin are catching up, in person, on the holiday celebrations, new foods, and driving home with two kids and one parent (thank goodness for DVD players).

In the final weeks of 2010 we're talking about our favorite holiday cookies, shopping for a new car at Christmas time, and finding the right activities to keep the kids busy in the winter.

The holidays are in full swing, and the Manic Mommies are looking for a little "hair of the dog" after holiday parties, half-day play dates, and new exercise routines. We discuss owning our situations and connecting with friends in new ways.

This episode is sponsored by ManGrate Grill Enhancement System.

This week we're talking tech with Connie from Intel in our sponsor spotlight series. If you're shopping for a laptop or netbook for the holidays or will be in the market for a new one in the next six months, you'll want to listen to this interview. It's not boring, we promise. Then we discuss commenting on the Internet. Why do some people find it necessary to be rude and mean online?

This epside is sponsored by Mangrate Grill Enhancement System.

Erin is visiting for the Thanksgiving holiday, giving the Manic Mommies a chance to catch up face-to-face. Our post-holiday chit chat covers decorating (hello Home Goods); whether the kids ate turkey (no), and Kristin's reunion. Plus, a sponsor spotlight with Heather Snavely from Xbox. This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by ManGrate grill enhancement system.

At this year's Escape, Angela Devlen, co-founder and current President of Mahila Partnership, shared a presentation called Passion and Zen: Stories on Following Your Dreams, Being a Mom, and Redefining Balance.

It's our annual Escape and we recorded this show in front of a live audience in San Antonio Texas! Listen to be part of the fun. Special thanks to our Escape sponsors: Chevy, Intel, XBOX Kinect and PBS Kids.

A few days before Halloween, we're catching up on school, costumes, disciplining the kids as they get older and the final count down to Escape 2010!

The Meal Makeover Moms return to introduce their new cookbook No Whine with Dinner! The book features 150 easy-to-make, family-friendly recipes as well as 50 moms’ secrets for getting picky eaters to try new foods. Every recipe in No Whine with Dinner was tested by moms and tasted by kids (including Kristin and Sophie)!

In her book "Motherhood is the new MBA," Shari Storm takes the lessons attributed to parenting and shows how they can be directly applied in the workplace, making for a more effective manager. She joins us this week to share some of the lessons learned while writing her book, including HOW, with three kids and a full-time job, she managed to write the book in the first place! We also share Steve's latest adventures in cooking (it doesn't end well) and celebrate the end of Erin's big project.

It's Erin's last day in the Boston office, but she's not leaving town until we've gotten our gab on! We discuss thoughtless comments, whether smart women wear sensible shoes or killer heels, drama in the school system and volunteering in the classroom.

This weekend Kristin and her family joined others on their bicycles to raise money for Two Smiles One Hope, a not-for-profit organization charged with raising research funds for treatment alternatives, and increasing community awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. After the ride, Kristin sat down with friend, and Two Smiles One Hope co-founder Alison Willis, to find out how her family is coping with having two children afflicted with this fatal disorder, which is the number one genetic killer of children worldwide.

It's Thursday night and we're back to the wine-fueled chit chat we enjoy most. We discuss why Erin's sitting in the dark (physically and metaphorically); the tv that will save Kristin's marriage; teachers; homework, ringtones and much more.

As the kids get older, and continue to bug us for more Pokemon cards, Squinkies, stickers and snacks, our thoughts turn to making the children buy their own goodies and garbage. But where to start? From first accounts to how much allowance we should give each week, Laura Fisher, Executive Director of the ABA Education Foundation, is here to help answer our questions about teaching children to save.

The Manic Mommies are back together for a special in-person recording session. This week Kristin and her family make the 6-hour drive to Rochester to visit Erin in her new home and it feels great to be back together again! Among other things we talk about how to enforce a new routine around the house and how the kids are all adjusting to their new teachers and new schools.

With the start of the new school year can come new challenges for children who are not progressing academically, socially or emotionally along with their peers. How do you know if your child is at risk? What steps can you take to ensure the most appropriate educational experience is being provided for your child? This week the Manic Mommies are joined by an educational psychologist and advocate (who also happens to be Erin's sister) to talk about students' rights, the laws that govern special education and the crucial role parents play in the process.

We may be a day late, but hopefully this retake is a better show because of it! This week we talk about Kristin's family trip to Jamaica (courtesy of the Jamaican Travel Board); traveling with kids, resort nannies and wonder whether there should there be kids-only sections on airplanes.

The Manic Mommies are joined by Amy Corda, a friend whose daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, a disease "where the body does not produce insulin, a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life." (ADA)

According to the American Diabetes Association only 5-10% of people with diabetes have type 1 (formerly known as juvenile diabetes) which is usually diagnosed in children and teenagers. "With the help of insulin therapy and other treatments, even young children with type 1 diabetes can learn to manage their condition and live long, healthy, happy lives."

Manic Mommies Escape Update - Friday Night Reception is sponsored by Microsoft Xbox Kinect.

We may be miles away from each other, but with video Skype and a cold beverage in hand, it feels like the good ol' days. This week we chat about making new mom friends, manic mommies meetups and getting ready for heading back to school.

This week it’s Kristin who’s on vacation and it’s sounding a lot like the Griswolds meets Caddyshack. Later, in anticipation of the release of 39 Clues book #10 this month, we chat with Clues author Jude Watson about what has made this multi-platform series a runaway success.

This week we're talking about sleepovers (has your kid ever taken a bite out of a glow stick?), summer squash from the CSA and finding a new pediatrician. We also take a stroll down memory lane to five years ago when we recorded our very first episode. Some things never change. Kristin's still wearing PJs to recording sessions.

The Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (WSCADV) is a non-profit network of domestic violence programs founded in 1990 by survivors and their allies. Kelly Starr joins the Manic Mommies to share information about the WSCADV's mission, as well as their latest project – teaming up with the Seattle Mariners to raise $200,000 through the Pepsi Refresh Project to mentor young male athletes and promote positive messages of honor ad respect.

Although it doesn't feel this way, there are actually more hours per week than you might think! Subtract a 40-50 hour work week, 8 hours of sleep per night, and you've still got more hours left for fun and personal time than you've spent at the office! This week we talk with Laura Vanderkam, author of 168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think and learn some strategies for identifying those useless time sucks in life that steal us away from the Things we'd really like to do. Then Erin + Kristin debate the use of the word vacation.

If your kids have seen any news on TV or glanced at the front page of your newspaper, they've probably asked you this question. This week Jaime Matyas of the National Wildlife Federation returns with some suggestions on how to talk with your children about the oil spill in the Gulf. Erin and Kristin also test out a new mode of remote podcasting, since one of the necessary recording devices is still missing in aftermath of the move.

Erin is off for her girls-only weekend on the Vineyard while Kristin's home hosting her son's birthday party. We also welcome back Heather Snavely from Microsoft & Xbox who helps with our first Escape related announcement (they are sponsoring our "sing-a-long" night at the Escape), gives us a video-game update, and talks about how her daughter can bring her back to Earth after a week rubbing elbows with celebrities.

After living in Rochester for two days, Erin is back in Massachusetts. On her way back to New York, the mommies meet up in a parking lot (it's a drive by podcasting) where we catch up on the last week as well as discuss the oil spill in the Gulf, the worst parenting book ever, stay at home dads (a new trend?), our new calendars and the Escape.

It's our "last" podcast before Erin and her family move to Rochester, New York. Through the chaos of kids in the pool, we discuss too many good-byes, not-so-quick trips to the Emergency Room, and why "Hot Mess" should be a new Twitter hashtag (#hotmess).

Erin's big move is this week (lucky we're recording a show at all!) and we're catching up on the going away party, packing hell, how Kristin nearly missed the boys' birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese, and Erin's Chevrolet test drives.

It's finally feeling like summer around these parts, so we decided to kick back with some light reading and share inspirations from the June issues of our favorite magazines. Of course, we couldn't let an episode go by without some talk of Erin's move and Kristin's home improvement projects. Reminds us of that saying, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results."

After the birth of her daughter in 2002, Heather Jack found it difficult to find volunteer opportunities that allowed children to participate. As a result, Heather was inspired to develop  The Volunteer Family, a non-profit which identifies over 30,000 volunteer opportunities in 40 states, and has helped connect 13,000 children, parents, and teachers to service learning opportunities. Heather was recently selected by Parenting as one of 51 outstanding mom education advocates from across the country to attend the first annual Mom Congress conference, where she worked on creating Parenting's "Lesson Plan for Change", a guide to empowering parents to get more involved in their children's education that will appear in the October issue of Parenting School Years."

Is it possible to have a life with children that doesn't require you or your partner to sacrifice either work or family? Can you share the load and still have time for your favorite hobbies and leisure activities? How can two parents raise their children in a way that allows balance for everyone in the equation? This week we interview Marc and Amy Vachon, co-authors of the books Equally Shared Parenting: Rewriting the Rules for a New Generation of Parents.

Manic Mommies life coach Kristin G. joins us for an update on the coaching sessions she's been conducting with three lucky listeners, revealing the secret that helped one mom gain control over her stressful morning routine. Could this tip help you? Then we ponder all that goes into scheduling our families and the preferred tools for managing the chaos.

Thinking about Escape 2010? We're over 70% sold after two weeks. We'd love to have you join us. Get the full details and tickets at ManicMommies.com

In honor of Mother's Day, long-time listener Mindy (hostess of the crafty Web site wishstudio.com) turns the microphone around and asks us the questions this week! Some are innocent, some are totally embarrassing, some are quite funny. If you've ever wondered what our husbands do for work, what our biggest challenges were when we were new mothers, or what we think about the community of Manic Mommies, you'll want to listen in.

General registration for Escape 2010 in San Antonio opens this week

How many times have you been told your child is so cute he or she should be a model? This week we interview Erin's friend and former co-worker Ben, who is a "stage" dad in NYC. From go-sees to auditions, Ben gives us the real scoop on what it takes for a kid to make it in the big city.

Dana Wood, editor and writer of the book Momover joins us to talk about why self-care is so important for moms. Learn the secrets to surviving the emotional, physical and spiritual challenges that emerge for new moms (and those of us who have been moms for years)!

We're playing hooky on a Friday afternoon and chat about husbands, naughty moms, girls' nights out and advocating for our kids at school. Erin also interviews Real Simple Editor-in-Chief Kristin van Ogtrop about her new book, "Just Let Me Lie Down."

ADHD. Allergies. Anxiety. And we're only on letter A! This week Dr. Rob joins us for a quick check up where we talk about attention issues among boys (again), car seats and seat belts, alcohol education and selecting the right doctor. Then the mommies chat about finding "me time" when it seems the kids' lives have completely taken over.

Erin is searching for her new home, and Kristin is recovering from the Easter madness, so the Manic Mommies dove into the vault with show #19 from April 2006, when we first welcomed Tory Johnson, CEO of WomenForHire.com and workplace contributor for Good Morning America.

We discuss negotiating a raise, mom-friendly work arrangements and how to determine if taking time off for family is feasible. Kristin also shares highlights from her family’s Disney vacation.

Research shows that kids are spending half as much time outside as they did 20 years ago – and much more time doing "inside" activities (sound familiar)?  Other studies  show that offering sufficient outdoor time improves the overall health of our children while lengthening attention spans, diminishing aggressiveness, improving test scores and ultimately advancing learning (plus other benefits). (Thanks to the National Wildlife Federation for the fun facts). This week, Jaime Matyas from the National Wildlife Federation joins us to introduce the NWF's new Be Out There Campaign, which aims to educate tens of million of U.S. moms and dads on the importance of helping their kids have more time outdoors and providing tools to do so.

Are you happy? What makes you happy? What does it mean to BE happy?? Gretchen Rubin, author of the best-selling book, "The Happiness Project: Or, Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun," spent a year test-driving studies and theories about how to be happier. In her book, and on her blog, she shares her insights about how we can all be happier.

While Erin was at home getting her home ready for the weekend's open house, Kristin was in Austin, Texas at the interactive/music/film/whatever conference known as SXSW. While she was there she met Mary Henige, director of social media & digital communications at General Motors, and a working mom! They camped out in a new Corvette to talk about making the shift from a dual income family to one where mom's the primary breadwinner and dad stays home. They also discussed mentoring and how we can help other moms as they try to figure out how to "do it all . . . and then some!"

We all know "reading is fundamental." But can we also make it fun? We're joined by Julie Temple Stan, who editorial director of Early Moments Book Club, who shares tips for helping kids embrace (and maybe even enjoy?) reading!

Has your family been watching the Winter Olympics? Are you sad to see it all end? This week we're talking about the events our kids enjoyed most, sharing our reactions to the Manic Daddies episode we released last week, and dishing up the dirt on ABC's The Bachelor. Tune in to find out who won our Palm Pre Plus giveaway!

Who could have ever imagined we'd actually produce 200 episodes of Manic Mommies? Certainly not our husbands! And yet without them and their continued support, tolerance, acceptance and willingness to be occasionally humiliated before a national and international audience, there would be no Manic Mommies. They listen to our crazy hopes and dreams, they watch the kids when we're traveling for so-called business trips and they prop us up when we've had a bad week in cyberspace. You asked for them and after much prodding and pleading they finally agreed.

It's Valentine's Day and, if you are like us, the last thing on your mind is sex. But Kristen Chase, aka the Mominatrix, is ready to help you discover (or rediscover) your inner naughty mom. She answers some of your questions about getting in the mood, turning off your brain, making time for intimacy and toys for grownups. She also shares her top 5 tips for getting back on track. Visit ManicMommies.com by February 28, 2010 to enter to win signed a copy of The Mominatrix's Guide to Sex.

Sponsor spotlight: Dove Chocolate Discoveries

According to a recent University of Chicago survey, a growing percentage of Americans consider themselves "spiritual but not religious." By all accounts, this includes parents. This week we're joined by author Dale McGowan, editor of Parenting Beyond Belief: On Raising Ethical, Caring Kids Without Religion to talk more about this trend. Then we chat openly about our own roles as the "spiritual directors" of our families.

This week Erin is joined by substitute co-host Meredith O'Brien, pop culture and television columnist for MommyTrack'd, who shares her tips for TV worth watching right now. Then our new life coach Kristin G. stops by for coffee and we talk about how coaching can help moms, why it's so important to find that additional "thing" in life that makes you happy, and why it's critical you take time and make space for it.

It's mid-January and winter blahs have set in. If you can't swing a trip to warmer weather, maybe a trip to the salon will lift your spirits! This week we talk about the Massachusetts election, how to work with your stylist to get the best treatment for your hair, and wonder why our kids are so dramatic sometimes. Surely we're not to blame!

Some of us can eat Big Macs and still look skinny (ahem, Kristin) and others of us know what we need to do to lose a little weight and yet we're still eating cookies and drinking wine. This week we talk about the 40-year-old spread, enrolling a child in scouting, and picky eaters.

It's two shows in one this week as we make the most of Erin's trip to Las Vegas for the Consumer Electronics Show. We chat about the households of the future, what's inside your computer (and why you should care) and our favorite tech gadgets. Later, soccer star and mother Mia Hamm reveals why she has yet to get her 3-year-old twins involved in organized sports.

It may be a new year, but we've got the same manic lifestyles as last: family obligations, household chores, kids behaving badly...And while the holidays may finally be over, we're still reeling from all that the so-called break delivered us. Join us for some long overdue girlfriend time and an exciting announcement that ensures the Manic Mommies will keep on podcasting through 2010!

The Mommies are on vacation, so we're pulling an old episode from the vault....

We talk money with deputy editor Lesley Alderman. Whether you’re a fashion lover, frugal giver, or recovering shopaholic, it’s likely you’ll learn a thing or two from this episode. We reveal six top money worries—from spending too much to saving too little—and share simple tips for getting back on track. We’ve even got a way for you to save on gas!

OK, we hate to pry, but with the stress of the holidays and end of the year, has "it" fallen to the bottom of your to-do list? This week we're joined by Dr. Debra Laino, a board-certified sexologist and therapist who shares her professional tips for keeping the sizzle in your relationship. This conversation goes beyond date night, ladies, and is not one for little ears. Then we wrap up with girlfriend gab and call it a year! While we're on vacation, you can follow us on Twitter or Facebook and connect with other listeners under the Big Tent.

The holiday madness is in full swing, and the Manic Mommies are feeling a tad bit overwhelmed. We discuss holiday preparations (budgets, gifts, cards . . . oh my!), the prices of Christmas trees, conversations under the Big Tent, Tiger Woods, and random acts of judgment.

We're stuffed with turkey and a lot of hot air this week, so we're excited to break up the banter with a healthy conversation with Alison Sweeney, Days of Our Lives diva and host of the Biggest Loser. Alison talks about her life as a working mom (in fact she was picking her son up from school when we reached her) and how she manages to find time for the important things in life: her kids, her health and giving back. We follow that up with a generous serving of holiday complaints. Pull up a chair, there's plenty of leftovers.

Due to a scheduling snafu, Alison Sweeney (aka Sammy Brady) couldn't join us this week. So... we're catching up with an old fashioned gab session – discussing Thanksgiving, groceries, lice, bed bugs and what drove Kristin to throw a CD player through her guest room wall.We're catching up with an old fashioned gab session – discussing Thanksgiving, groceries, lice, bed bugs and what drove Kristin to throw a CD player through her guest room wall.

As parents, and siblings, the Manic Mommies know how important the sibling relationship is, but how much did our siblings impact the grownups we became? And how do we, as parents, nurture the relationship our children have with their siblings? Lisa Hanson and Heather Kempskie, twins, moms and  authors of The Sibling Busy Book, joined us at Escape'09 to help us as we all search for sibling harmony.

We're back from Napa and reentry into our everyday lives is not nearly as much fun as getting away with 160 of our dearest fans (although it was so great to hear those squeals of "Mommy!" when we arrived home). Even if you weren't with us in person, you were with us in spirit. Listen in throughout the month to get a feel for the fun and the sisterhood of the weekend – starting with "true mom confessions" with authors Amy Nobile and Trisha Ashworth.

What would you do if your 3-year-old daughter had an imaginary friend who caused her to speak a mysterious language and lash out at others? What if parenting books, friends and pediatricians could offer you little help or support? Would you travel to Central America  to see a nontraditional healer? Author Hope Edelman did. This week she joins us to talk about her memoir The Possibility of Everything, and her plight to bring harmony and wellness back to her family through some extraordinary means.

After an unexpected week off, the Manic Mommies take a few moments to catch up on recent life events: business travel, poison oak and the first parent-teacher conferences of the year. We're also joined by author/comedian Chris Mancini whose hilarious new book Pacify Me is a laugh out loud read for any new or experienced parent. It's good to get a dad's perspective every once and a while!

The Meal Makeover Moms visit Kristin's kitchen to answer all of our healthy eating questions. They also give one of Kristin's family's favorite recipes, Fish Chowder, a meal makeover (it was delicious!).

Special thanks to Meal Makeover Moms Escape Sponsors - Coleman Natural and Cabot.

The Manic Mommies took a time out to get a little shopping done, meeting listeners and friends at the new Champion store at Wrentham Premium Outlets. During our visit we found out some of the ways they are staying fit - from karate to power jump roping (how dangerous does that sound??), we were so impressed by their commitment to getting moving. Maybe it will inspire Erin and Kristin to do the same!

We also welcome our first Escape sponsor spotlight: Coleman Natural Foods.

Are you watching Mad Men? The Good Wife? Flash Forward? This week the Manic Mommies are joined by Meredith O'Brien, pop culture columnist and TV writer to talk all things TV. The new fall shows have started and we tell you which ones are worth your precious time and which ones are better left on the DVR.

Can working moms every really be happy at work and happy at home? Caitlin Friedman, co-author of the new book Happy at Work, Happy at Home: The Girls' Guide to Being a Working Mom tells us how to avoid some of the most common traps working moms fall in to (banish that guilt!) and explains why it's important to always feel secure in our career and lifestyle choices.

If you're one of the many moms who returned to her job after maternity leave thinking, "I am not cut out for this anymore," you'll love this week's interview. Sonia Gupta is an inspiration. The owner of her own organic baby clothing line—My Little Pakora—Sonia is introducing a product moms can believe in while also giving back a share of her profits to the Grameen Foundation. All this from her kitchen table. Who says you can't reinvent yourself after baby?

When life gets a little too crazy, we like nothing more than curling up with our stack of unread magazines. This week, we read the magazines with you, although we get a little off track with our extensive commentary on everything from chronically tardy mommies (who, me?), to new school bus drivers, to taking a job with your former employer.

The summer is (finally) over and the kids are heading back to school. But first, we discuss decommissioning the camp stuff (stinky shoes anyone?); getting back in the school groove, and the stuff we love these days. We also welcome to awesome listeners from California who join us for our first listener call-in show!

Summer is winding down, change is in the air, Erin's in New York with the in-laws and Kristin's home with her family. This week's show was recorded via Skype and with one week to go before school starts we talk about the final summer family road trip, senseless school supply lists (box of Saltines, really?) and school lunches.

This week we're joined by Dr. Joe Siegler, executive coach, board-certified psychiatrist, and founder of Chicago's Full Life Centers to discuss how to set and achieve goals in your life. We discuss everything from coping with job loss to check-listing our spouses and whether coaching might be a better alternative to traditional therapy. But first, a little talk about kids' movies, bromances and summer "vacations" (a.k.a. change of scenery for the week).

We've been like two ships passing in the night, as Kristin wrapped up her staycation with a road trip and Erin started her family vacation on Saturday. So we're recycling our Earth Day show from 2008 that features an interview with Kate Gosselin, conducted long before she became the favorite of tabloid magazine editors and paparazzi everywhere.

We'll be back next week with a whole new episode featuring a great interview with Dr. Joe Siegler, author of the book Fire Your Therapist.

This week we welcome Jen Mazzon from Google to the show. Jen is a busy working mom of three, including a set of twins, and she shares with us some of the ways online computing has helped simplify her work and home lives. Could these tools help you, too? We've also put together a great tip sheet listing our favorite online tools and resources for the digital mom. Find it on ManicMommies.com. Then Kristin fills us in on her glorious (or not so glorious) staycation.

 The Manic Mommies hit the road, visiting Chicago for BlogHer, the massive conference and tradeshow for women bloggers. During our trip we had the pleasure of interviewing New York Times reporter and Motherlode blogger, Lisa Belkin about the next generation of parents, equally shared parenting and the myth of "balance." We also heard American Idol alumnae Brooke White as she performed songs from her new album, High Hopes & Heartbreaks.

Our resident pediatrician Dr. Rob makes a house call to our studio this week (otherwise known as Kristin's kitchen) to answer our listeners' questions. We talk about everything from kids with cross eyes to tween anxiety and the role of probiotics. We also learn how Dr. Rob sets limits on screen time in his own home. But first a funny tale of a summer weekend that both starts—and ends—with weiners.

We've made it through the first week of "summer!" In this short show, we catch up on how it went – one week of rain derailed most of Erin's "Camp Mommy" plans while Kristin's kids came home waterlogged from day camp. The weather has got to get better now that July is here... right?

Where do Manic Mommies turn when they need a shoulder to cry on, a friend who will just listen (and not judge) or words of wisdom from someone who's been there, done that? They go under the big tent. This week we read through the Manic Mommies big tent forums and share our thoughts on the conversations listeners are having without us. But first, a story of how a single dirty dish landed one of the Manic Mommies in a self-imposed time out.

Raise your hand if you think the end-of-school season is crazier than the holidays! The Manic Mommies take break from the madness to catch up on the huge pile of magazines that has been gathering in their homes. We discuss television, celebrity gossip, bed wetting (again), birthdays (again) and anything else that comes to mind.

This week we simply unwind in front of the microphones and chat about what's on our minds: selling out the escape, bed wetting (why can't parents be more honest about this?), kids who talk back (not that we know any) and therapy. When on the couch, is it really necessary to focus on the past to deal with the present?

Following up on the success of the documentary "Growing Up Online," producer Rachel Dretzin is turning her lens on the rest of us in the new Frontline project, Digital Nation. She and her team are exploring the effect of technology on all of us – the way we live, the way we work, the way we connect with others, even the way we think!

Would you let your child take the subway alone? How about wait for the bus, walk to a neighbor or ride around the 'hood on his or her bicycle? As parents of growing boys, the Manic Mommies are trying to figure when, and how, to let our kids explore their independence. Which is why we were so excited to welcome Lenore Skenazy, author of "Free-Range Kids", who was vilified in the press for allowing her 9-year old son to ride the subway by himself. We discuss how to raise a free-range kid, and why parents today are so scared of letting go.

Erin takes time out of her crazy-busy schedule to chat with Desperate Housewives' James Denton. They talk about the weather (really??), baseball, kids, paparazzi and the Desperate Housewives season finale (fear not - no spoilers).

An active volunteer, James is traveling to Boston to host Share the Beat, a star-studded fundraising event to benefit The American Society of Transplantation endowment which was created to support transplant research and the training of transplant professionals and the Redford AnimAction Project: It's a Rap, an educational outreach program geared toward youth and dedicated to raising transplant awareness.

Don't get too jealous ladies, right after she hung up with James, Erin was back to shuttling kids around, grocery shopping and preparing for a couple days on the road. Who says she doesn't live the glamorous life?

Do you wish you had more time to do the things that are most important to you in life, like spending more time with your children, volunteering in your community, or cultivating a passion or hobby? This week's guest is family first entrepreneur Marc Warnke, author of Options Not Obligations: Enrich Your Personal Life by Rethinking Your Financial Life. Marc explains how to have fun by consuming less while learning to break free from the financial obligations that limit our creativity and spirit.

Ah, Mother's Day. For us, it was almost like any other, except there was little arguing from the spouses. We heard "Yes, Dear" a lot and we'll admit, it was like music to our ears. While our kids run roughshod in Kristin's backyard (get outside, now!) we chat about traditional male and female roles around the house and share bits from Dean Blizzard's One Funny Mother Show. Anyone poop the letter J in your house this week?

It's finally happened, one of the mommies has taken the leap and started seeing a family therapist. Want to take bets on which one took the plunge? Our weekly chit chat turns from family counseling to shared responsibilities, husbands, kids, and our other complaints. Seriously, who needs professionals when we can just vent to each other - and you!

We welcome back one of our favorite pediatricians - Dr. Mike of Pediacast. We've put him in the Manic Mommies hot seat to answer our questions about poop (of course); diagnosing ADHD; medications; ticks and swine flu (why didn't anyone tell us parenthood was so... disgusting?). We also talk about spring break and Disney's newest nature flick.

It feels like spring has finally sprung here in Massachusetts and we've got the fever. We're even talking fantasy baseball with Erin's husband, Mike. Kristin explains how she managed to make not one, but TWO children cry at the first neighborhood BBQ of the year and we seek the truth on what makes a woman a Messie or a Cleanie. Messies Anonymous anyone?

Banks are stumbling. Markets are crashing. Home values are underwater.  When the financial world is upside down, how do you figure out where you should be putting your money? We welcome Steve Sousa, Senior Vice President at Framingham Co-operative Bank in Massachusetts, to help answer our bank-related questions. We discuss community banks, deposit insurance, mortgage refinancing and how to find the right bank for you. As they say in Kristin's favorite magazine, The Week, file this story under "boring but important."

Has motherhood sapped your mojo? This week we're joined by author and podcast host Amy Tiemann to discuss the new release of her book Mojo Mom. Do you view motherhood as the most important job you've ever had? Or do you look at it as a relationship between adult and child? Amy tells us why your answer is so important and offers some suggestions for getting your mojo back after baby. We have six copies of Mojo Mom to give away. Tell us how you got your mojo back at ManicMommies.com. Winners will be selected at random.

We welcome Meredith Navario, a military mom with two kids (plus one on the way), who founded the web site "Okinawa Hai!" a hub for military families in Okinawa, Japan to connect and share resources. She shares with the Manic Mommies the joys and challenges of living life as a military wife and mom - how would you cope if you had to move every three years?? –  as well as her newest venture, Now Serving.

The April issues of our favorite (and not-so-favorite) magazines have arrived in our mailboxes. This week we discuss stories making headlines including two new studies that explain why men don't notice our hair and how the female orgasm helps us to select the best mate. We also share tips for being a better friend, how to reduce allergens in your home, making time for sex. Truly, a mother's job is never done.

It's been more than 12 days since the Manic Mommies have been in the same room together so this week we do what we do best: reveal our bad mommy moments from the week and laugh about the insanity that is our crazy busy lives. One of us forgot an early release day on the school calendar and the other "lost" her kids from her own driveway. And what episode would be complete without at least one "Where's Sophie?" moment.

Erin and her family are away on vacation, Kristin is holding down the show with the help of Heather Kempskie and Lisa Hanson, authors of "The Siblings' Busy Book". We discuss sibling rivalry (why can't these kids get along??), chores, National Siblings Day and why we have become totally dependent on our GPS. Visit ManicMommies.com for show notes.

Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the grocery store, it turns out there is trouble brewing in the aisles. We are joined by journalist Alice Shabecoff, co-author of Poisoned Profits: the Toxic Assault on Our Children. Erin and Alice discuss the risk of chemical exposure – children today have higher rates of birth defects, asthma, cancer, autism and a frightening range of other neurological illnesses from ADHD to mental retardation, and other serious chronic illnesses compared to previous generations – and what parents can do now to protect their children.

This week the Manic Mommies receive a long overdue visit from resident parenting coach Kathy and we're tackling our listeners' parenting dilemmas. Among the topics we discuss: siblings who won't stop fighting, boys with "potty mouth," a girl who runs down the street when she doesn't get her way and what's considered a reasonable amount of time for mom to play with her children every day. Who said this parenting stuff was easy?

The Manic Mommies are playing hookey, heading into New York City for the day to meet with our friends at Real Simple. During our visit we chat with Senior Editor Kathleen Murray Harris about the planned relaunch of RealSimple.com.

This week we meet Simone and Myrna, the founders of StillSavvy.com, a website for boomer women and manic grammies everywhere (tell your moms about it). First introduced at a mothers group some thirty years ago, these two hilarious women remind us that motherhood really is the universal equalizer and that the friendships we make now can last a lifetime.

They say boys will be boys, but it seems it's a lot harder to be a little boy these days. But don't take our word for it. This week we're joined by Peg Tyre, investigative journalist and author of The Trouble With Boys: A Surprising Report Card on Our Sons, Their Problems at School, and What Parents and Educators Must Do. We also share exciting news about our new 2009 sponsor.

The Manic Mommies travel to NYC this week and meet up with listeners over brunch. In this episode we chat with celebrity nanny Marva Soogrim (Courtney Cox, Sheryl Crow and Reese Witherspoon were all clients), Baby Name Wizard author Laura Wattenberg (why did the name Sophie get so popular?), young adult novelist Mari Mancusi and Crafty Mama author Abby Peccoriello.

Thanks to Role Mommy Beth Feldman for hosting such a fun event and to our listeners: Diane, Kim, Carolyn, Rosann, Maria, Hilary, Lori and Andrea for joining us.

Job seekers and employers gathered last week in Boston for Good Morning America's Job Fair. Kristin was also there, accompanied by a couple of recently laid off listeners, to get job search tips and advice from GMA workplace contributor Tory Johnson.

January is Get Organized Month and we've bought the pretty folders, the clear storage boxes and the label maker, and yet we still find ourselves fighting our disorganized ways. This week we are joined by two professional organizers (men, believe it or not) who share some simple tips on clearing away the clutter and creating mental and physical space in our hectic lives. Visit ManicMommies.com to share your own organizing tip.

It's been nearly two weeks of no school, family obligations, holiday celebrations, kitchen renovations, and the Manic Mommies are fried. We manage to pull together a mini-episode, talking at the counter while Erin preps a chicken for dinner and the kids run rampant around the house. Tune in to find out why we won't be winning any Mother of the Year awards for 2008.

Working with the school on behavior and language assessments can often leave a mom with more questions than answers! Speech pathologist and co-host of The DivaCast, Sharon Martin, joins the Manic Mommies to answer some of our questions and better understand the assessment process.

With at least two family members plagued by colds, there's no better time to call the MommyDocs Rachel and Jamie for some practical advice. Do you really need the flu shot? Do your kids? What temperature warrants a call to the doctor? And what exactly is the germy wormy?

If you are shopping for gifts this season, chances are video games or gaming systems are one of the items you are thinking about buying. Heather Snavely from Microsoft Xbox 360 helps the Manic Mommies with advice on limiting screen time for your kids, selecting age-appropriate games, and protecting children connecting online through gaming systems.

The Manic Mommies are hanging out on a rainy (or is it icy) Sunday evening, sharing tidbits from their favorite magazines including Real Simple, Everyday with Rachel Ray, The Week and more.

Boys will be boys, but are we destined for a lifetime of weeks like this? Erin & Kristin dropped a microphone on the table this week and let it all come out. Despite other plans, this week show is all about our 6-year-old sons and the challenges we're all facing at home and school.

Ever feel like you're having the same conversations with the same people, over and over again? Whether it's your husband, your partner, your boss, or your mother-in-law, you can change the way you communicate with others and get what you want. This week Suzanne Maiden, family therapist and host of the relationship advice podcast Dear Zanny shares tips and tricks for communicating more effectively, how to be mindful of ‘passive-aggressive’ behaviors, and what to do when you or your partner shut down. This presentation was recorded before a live audience at Escape '08.

The Manic Mommies have returned from Escape '08! This week we're sharing what we learned at Mom U including how to interpret our dreams; managing the family calendar; going green, and more. Thanks to our sponsors, speakers and guests for making Escape '08 a success. And to Saturn for sponsoring Mom U!

Many young parents today are not only caring for their children, but also for their aging parents. If you are trying to manage the care of a ailing parent from afar, or wondering how you and your siblings can best care for mom or dad as they age, this week's guest has some practical advice. Personal health care consultant Dianne Savastano shares tips for organizing your family's health information, communicating with your parents about their health care needs, and strategies for planning for the future.

It's been a crazy-busy week, so the Manic Mommies are taking the week off! While we are away, we've pulled one of our first ten episodes – Tips for Manic Mommies (part 1) out of the vault. Three years after it was originally recorded, the sound quality leaves a little to be desired, but the tips for how to make your life a little easier, are still valid.

Do you know what chemicals are in your cleaning or personal care products? Neither did we until Erin attended a panel discussion, hosted by Seventh Generation and the Environmental Working Group, which focused on the impact of chemicals on our children, the importance of knowing what’s inside their household cleaning and personal care products and how these ingredients impact the health and well-being of their families and the environment.

The Manic Mommies hit the road, meeting our sisters in the blogosphere at BlogHer Boston, We interview our friend Christine from Boston Mamas (and Posh Peacock), listener Angela, and try not to kill anyone as we conduct our sponsor spotlight with Steve from Saturn while driving a Saturn Vue Hybrid.

It's a rare Saturday night recording session and Erin and Kristin bring back an old favorite: Magazines we'd read if we had an extra eight hours a day. Among the items discussed: embracing our inner Cosmo Girl, hair color, scary movies, Gossip Girl and must-have "goodies" for the bedroom.

 The Manic Mommies welcome Janet Ruth Heller, author of the children's book "How The Moon Regained Her Shape." The award-winning book was written by Ms. Heller to help parents and kids to figure out how to deal with bullies and bullying. This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by Fruitabu Organic Smoooshed Fruit Twirls.

Why is it when mom's away, everything comes undone? We know  we're not the only ones capable of keeping the house clean and the kids fed and yet one business trip can wreak havoc on the entire family. We also talk with Jen, a busy mom, personal trainer and holistic health expert about baby steps moms can take towards a healthier lifestyle.
 
All this month, Manic Mommies is sponsored by FruitaBu, organic smoooshed fruit. Put something healthy in your kid's lunchbox!

Women for Hire CEO and Good Morning America workplace contributor Tory Johnson calls in to share her advice for listeners who may be interested in working from home. We discuss taking your current position home, finding legitimate opportunities and how to avoid scams.

All this month, Manic Mommies is sponsored by FruitaBu, organic smoooshed fruit. Put something healthy in your kid's lunchbox!

If you haven't been asked this question already, you can be sure it's coming. Are you prepared to start talking about sex with your child? And at what age is it really appropriate ? If he watches any television or listens to any popular music, chances are good he's heard the words sexy, hot, or even, erectile dysfunction. We admit, it's an embarrassing conversation, even for three grown women! Joining us this week is Adena, Manic Mommies listener, public health researcher, and former sex education teacher who—through our giggles like schoolgirls—tells us why it may be best to start talking to kids about sex earlier than you think. This episode contains some adult language that is not suitable for little ears.


All this month, Manic Mommies is sponsored byFruitaBu, organic smoooshed fruit.  Put something healthy in your kid's lunchbox!

The Olympics are over and now it's time for the new television season to begin. Meredith O'Brien returns to run it all down for us – the good (Mad Men), the bad (Knight Rider) and the beautiful (90210 or Gossip Girl). We also discuss the Olympics (how does Michael Phelps keep his pants up) and the National Conventions.

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by FruitaBu, organic smoooshed fruit.

The Manic Mommies take the show on the road, interviewing Andrea Astrachan, in-house consumer advocate at one of our local grocery chains Stop& Shop. Andrea gives us great tips on how you can save time and money at the grocery store - no matter where you live!

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by Fruitabu Organic Smoooshed Fruit.

Summer is almost over (sigh) and a mom's thoughts turn towards getting organized for the school year. To help us get started, we welcome Jennifer Dulski, working mom of two and co-founder and the chief executive officer at Centerd.com, a web site designed to help groups (big groups, small groups, friends, volunteers, etc) get on the same page. While the Manic Mommies love the idea of getting more organized, one of us (Kristin) is worried it's going to be harder than ever to avoid volunteering at the school.

Kristin's back from vacation and the summer is almost over! The kids will be back in school before we know it. This week we're joined by Archivist Alison, a professional archivist who provides great advice on how to clear out last year's precious memories to make room for all the new stuff to come. Alison also advises us on how to preserve photos for the long term and explains why being a hoarder or a purger is perfectly OK.

This week, Erin is joined by twin sisters Lisa Hanson and Heather Kempskie, authors of The Siblings' Busy Book, a comprehensive guide of fun activities for kids of different ages. Finally, a book that offers parents unique and simple ways to stimulate and entertain children together—from babies, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age kids—all in the same place! This is a must-have for your library. From rainy day fun to outdoor adventures and games to play when you are out and about, this book is packed with 200 original and creative ideas. We have an autographed copy to give away to one lucky listener!

Our guest this week is Michelle Nicholasen, mother of 5 and co-author of the book "I Brake for Meltdowns: How to Handle the Most Exasperating Behavior of your 2- to 5-year-old."  A former documentary filmmaker, Michelle took her background in research and together with co-author Barbara O'Neil, has compiled a detailed manual for how to handle those everyday situations that usually result in two meltdowns: one being the child's, the other being the mom's. Learn some new tips for dealing with the tattler, the devil in the backseat and how to encourage sharing. The book is packed with practical advice for real life scenarios. We are big fans.

This week, we unwind with a little chit chat about celebrities, summer television shows (Yes, Project Runway is back) and share the highlights from our July magazine subscriptions.

We pull back the flap of the Manic Mommies Big Tent group and discuss our favorite topics including favorite things, pocketbooks, money matters and more.

In this Manic Mommies profile, Erin & Kristin interview Rosa Linda from New Mexico, a former on-air television news anchor turned video podcaster who just happens to swing by Manic Mommies HQ during a family vacation to New England. Listen in as three moms try to conduct an interview while three dads and six kids run rampant in the backyard with squirt guns. And watch the video version (coming soon) on Rosa Linda's video podcast.

 How many times has your child asked you to tell him a story? Probably too many to count! But when was the last time you asked her to be the storyteller? In this episode of Manic Mommies, Erin & Kristin interview Sharon Kan, co-founder of the online story publishing tool for kids Tikatok and discover simple ways for inspiring creativity among children.

This episode is sponsored by Word Girl, now five days a week on PBS Kids Go!

After an extended leave, our resident pediatrician Dr. Rob returns to answer our listeners' questions (and a few of our own). We cover everything from summer safety to allergies, to how much milk is the right amount? Dr. Rob also explains the media's recent fascination with a tragic case of "dry drowning." This episode of Manic Mommies sponsored by Word Girl.

This week Erin and Kristin welcome kids' birthday party expert  Lisa Kothari,  founder of Peppers and Pollywogs to the show to talk about the latest trends in kid's parties. We ask Lisa to explain what's expected of parents as party hosts, what's expected of guests, and how to keep the celebration within your planned budget.

Avoidance? Explosive? Sarcastic? Real Simple Deputy Editor Lesley Alderman joins the Manic Mommies to discuss ways we can all better manage our anger (who, me? I'm not angry!). Then we chat about low cost organizing ideas and end up on a rant about the one drawer in the house that makes us crazy: the  junk drawer.

We reconnect after a week off from the podcast and recount our experience seeing Sex and the City The Movie, share more stuff our listeners hate about motherhood, and make our big announcement about Escape 08. Pack your bags, ladies! We're going to the Bahamas!

This episode is sponsored by Word Girl, now five days a week on PBS Kids Go!

Managing work and family is hard enough, but imagine also having to manage a serious medical illness—one you kept hidden from coworkers and acquaintances—at the same time? This week we talk to Hollie, a busy working mom who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in her early 20s. Also known as manic-depression, bipolar disorder affects 2.5 million adult Americans each year. Hollie bravely shares her story as well as some tips for how to recognize signs of depression among friends and family and some strategies for explaining the diagnosis to children.

The Manic Mommies chat with Jim, Steven and Kevin from the Barenaked Ladies who released their first children's CD this week, Snack time. Then we turn the tables on Mother's Day and celebrate the not-so-happy stuff about motherhood and our listeners weigh in. Seems none of us likes bodily fluids, a loss of dignity, or mean, perfect mommies.

Why should there be just a single day to celebrate mothers? All this month we'll be talking to Manic Mommies listeners about their lives, their families, and their personal passions: careers, hobbies, and more. We start with Reay, mother of two and professional puppeteer living with her family outside Atlanta.

The Mommies celebrate Earth Day with interviews from the temporary Method store in Boston. We share "green" tips from our listeners and neighbors; drink healthier (with help from the Liquid Muse); and meet "super mom" Kate Gosselin from TLC's Jon & Kate Plus 8. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com – for show notes and links.

 In our monthly Real Simple segment, deputy editor Lesley Alderman shares what your doctor wants you to know but doesn't have time to tell you. In the magazine's May issue, 10 specialists divulge the sort of advice they share with friends and family and wish all their patients would heed.

This episode is sponsored by Audible Kids.

If you think it's impossible to find music that both you and your kids will agree on, think again! This week we share some of our favorite new releases, listener recommendations, and play excerpts of songs from Melissa Errico, Justin Roberts, The Dino Five, and Steve Roslonek.

We always like to hear the dad's perspective here at Manic Mommies, and this week we chat with CC Chapman, a recognized maven in the new media space, fellow podcaster, and dad of two. Among other things we talk about keeping kids save in cyberspace, bullying, splitting the housework and CC's formula for a successful marriage. For an added dose of the Manic Mommies this week, you can hear us on CC's podcast, Managing the Gray, where we talk about creating a brand using new media and how major companies are reaching out to moms online.

It's been a tough week in Erin's house, but the show must go on! We laugh (and whine a bit) about what happens when mom adds nursing duties to her already endless job description. We also speak with Alison Birnbaum, a spokesperson for the National Youth Anti-Drug Campaign about the rising incidence of prescription drug abuse among teens today and a new public awareness campaign targeting parents.

Oprah has her favorite things, we have stuff we love. In this semi-regular feature, we chat about the sensible tips, products, and Web sites that keep us happy right now. We also talk about Kristin's trip to NYC and  Erin's meet-up with a Gal Pal in Chicago. Do you have stuff you love? Share it in the comments at ManicMommies.com

No guests this week - it's just the mommies catching up on our mom chat. We discuss favorite magazines, reality shows (including the Real Housewives of New York City), new and returning shows (The Riches return!) our American Idol favs and religious education.

In this Manic Mommy profile, we introduce Donna, a full-time administrative assistant and mother of two who is working on a new career as an image consultant. Donna shares with us her tips on how to dress for success, why black is not always everyone's best color, and strategies for shopping in your closet. Since we can't afford a personal shopper ourselves, we also suggest some books and resources that might get you out of your clothes funk. It worked for us. The day after this interview we headed to Marshalls in search of some fashionable bargains.

If you're looking for ways to save on your grocery bill, shopping at a warehouse club might be the answer. But what do you do with those huge trays of meat and big tubs of cheese when you get home? Kati Neville, co-author of "Fix, Freeze, Feast"  tells us how to prepare multiple dinner entrees in advance using fresh ingredients you buy in bulk. The cookbook even provides shopping lists which Kristin put to the test! We also read listener mail and talk about a new reality show on TLC.

Parenting coach Kathy returns to answer some of our listener questions including controlling toddler tantrums, crying wolf and biting.

With the 100th day of school right around the corner, Erin and Kristin reflect on the joys and challenges of parenting a boy in kindergarten. We also chat about the Disney Cruise, announce the creation of the Manic Mommies Gal Pals, and a new giveaway from Land's End.

Our friend, and fellow Manic Mommy, Kelly, returns for a short visit to the US from Prague. During this episode Kelly not only shares her family's experiences settling into life in a foreign country, but she also fills in as guest host while Erin enjoys a week away (cruising the Caribbean with Disney).

One of our favorite mommy bloggers, Meredith O'Brien, visits to dish about our two favorite topics - television and politics. From Gossip Girl, Friday Night Lights and Dirty Sexy Money to Cashmere Mafia and Hannah Montana, we talk about new shows and old favorites - and what effect the writers' strike will have on the rest of the season.

From Club Penguin and WebKinz to MySpace and Facebook, kids today are growing up online. If you are listening to podcasts, chances are good that you are relatively tech-savvy. But many parents today have never made a friend online, chatted via instant message, or even sent a text message on their cell phone. If you are not familiar with the latest technology, how can you know what your kids are up to? This week we talk with Rachel Dretzin, producer of the upcoming Frontline documentary "Growing Up Online,"  about the potential risks, realities and misconceptions of the Internet. It's not just strangers we need to worry about. In many cases, it's the "friends."  Watch the entire documentary Tuesday, January 22 at 9pm, on PBS. Or stream the video online at pbs.org/frontline.

You can hire someone else to do it for you, but unless you're lucky enough to have Alice from the Brady Bunch living at your house, it's likely you're cleaning at some point every day between work, dropping the kids at school or day care, and making dinner. Join us as we chat with Real Simple Magazine's Deputy Editor Lesley Alderman about ways to simplify this thankless task and learn some new uses for old things. Did you know a lint roller works wonders for dusting lampshades? We also announce the winner of the Real Simple Cleaning book. Ten listeners are receiving copies of Real Simple Family. Check our web site for your name.

Ever have one of those spats with your significant other that's left you wondering how can I love someone so much and still be so infuriated by him (or her)? Psychologist Sharon Morris May, author of How to Argue So Your Spouse Will Listen shares the tricks to fighting right and explains what's going on in our brains when we lose our cool.

Once the end of the year chaos has subsided, many of us will TRY to start the new year by clearing out the mental and physical clutter and making resolutions we might actually keep in 2008! With all you HAVE to do, how do you find the time and energy for the things you WANT to do? The mommies chat with our life coach Sharon Teitelbaum about mapping your plan for success in 2008—whether that means a new job or simply maintaining a clutter-free zone on your kitchen counter—Sharon tells us how to get started. We also announce the four winners of our Scholastic giveaway. Wishing a Happy New Year to all of listeners and their families!

With just about a week to go until Christmas, Erin and Kristin talk about gifts: those to give, those we'd like to receive, and what Santa's bringing to our homes this year. We're also joined by Mary Alice Moore from Scholastic who talks about the ABC's of selecting books for children.

It's a common refrain in homes throughout America and many the manic mommy will tell you the dinner hour is one of the most challenging times of day. Putting something healthy on the table quickly is one thing. Getting your young kids to eat it is another. Hear what the Meal Makeover Moms Liz and Janice have to say about feeding your family and learn some practical solutions for getting more healthy foods into your child's diet.

For millions of women in America, pregnancy loss is a painful reality that comes with few concrete answers. If you or someone you know has suffered a miscarriage, you'll want to hear  this week's interview with Darci Klein. The author of <em>To Full Term: A Mother's Triumph Over Miscarriage</em>, Darci has drawn on her own experiences with repeated pregnancy losses to develop resources for women frustrated by outdated standards of care and the medical system's overly prescribed explanation: "It's bad luck."

The holidays are upon us, which means moms and dads are preparing for - or dare we say, dreading? - family travel. The Manic Mommies are joined by Tracy Gallagher, Travel Channel expert and manic mommy of three, who has tips for every family - whether you are traveling by plane, train or automobile. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by General Motors.

Come along and experience the 2007 Manic Mommies Escape in Newport, Rhode Island. We recorded this episode during Saturday's Mom U. sessions and spoke to some of the moms who joined us as both speakers and guests. If you couldn't join us, this might make you feel like you came along. At least for little parts of it!

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by General Motors.

Two shows in one this week as the Manic Mommies talk to Mary Beth Stanek, GM's director of environment and energy about  driving "green."  Then it's time for our monthly manic mommy profile as we meet Catherine, an engaged mom of two who shares with us the realities of divorce, blending families and the excitement of marriage the second time around.

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by General Motors.

The Manic Mommies get political!  This week Erin was given the opportunity to interview Elizabeth Edwards, wife of presidential candidate John Edwards. During their conversation Erin and Elizabeth discussed John's housekeeping skills, Dafur, healthcare and motherhood. Elizabeth also shared what it was like to tell her children she had cancer, her public battle with breast cancer, and her decision to keep campaigning (with her children) despite the disease and mixed public opinion. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Trisha Ashworth and Amy Nobile, co-authors of I Was a Really Good Mom Before I Had Kids, join the Manic Mommies to talk about the myths of modern day motherhood. Can we shatter the perception of the perfect mother once and for all?

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by General Motors.

You swore you were not going to work on the PTO fundraiser this year, yet, once again, here you are: making customized name tags and emailing parents in grades K-8. This week the Manic Mommies chat with Dr. Susan Newman, author of The Book of NO, to learn how two little letters can add up to a lot more quality time for you. Just say it with us now.

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by General Motors.

The Manic Mommies are joined by Abigail Jones, co-author of the new book "Restless Virgins", the riveting real-life story of a group of seniors  at Milton Academy, a prestigious New England prep school, which was rocked by a sex scandal in 2005. Abigail and the Mommies discuss popularity, pressure, and the changing landscape of teenage sexuality today. This is an important conversation, but may not be something you want to listen to with small children around. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The Manic Mommies break out their October magazines and share articles on everything from how to handle awkward social situations to household budgeting, alternatives to Halloween candy, home remodeling parties, lead testing kits, and much more. We're also thrilled to announce that General Motors is the exclusive sponsor of the Manic Mommies Escape. Who's ready for a joy ride? Visit our web site for show notes and links.

The Manic Mommies are joined by listener Carrie, a stay at home mom and, most recently, part-time, at home, entrepreneur. We discuss the ups (and downs) of being a stay at home mom; the realities of referral sales (what is a pyramid scheme anyway?) as well as how she decided to jump into her new business. Visit our web site, www.ManicMommies.com, for show notes and links.

Have you ever felt like the odd mom out, like you're the only mom who is not totally psyched at the prospect of volunteering at your child's school? This week the mommies are joined by novelist Jane Porter, author of the soon to be released Odd Mom Out, to discuss the myriad of ways we are pulled by our desires to be the best mom, wife, coworker, friend, daughter, volunteer and—let's not forget—woman.

The Manic Mommies are back together after 3 weeks of work madness and family vacations. And this week, we're sharing comments, questions, and complaints (gasp!) from listeners. Topics include feeding toddlers, potty training and why, oh why, are moms always in charge of managing the family schedule?

We also announce new options for the upcoming Manic Mommies Escape Book your trip today!

Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

If you are anything like Erin, your garden suffers from a lack of proper nutrients. Sun and water are not enough says our guest this week, Hilary Finkel Buxton, producer of lifestyle television programs for PBS. With Kristin still on vacation, it's Erin and Hilary alone talking gardening. Be sure to catch the new season of Victory Garden on PBS this week. Hilary also serves as our Manic Mommies listener profile of the month. Do you want to be featured on an upcoming show? Just drop us an email and tell us about your job, your kids, and what's going on in your life!

Kristin is joined this week by guest host Meredith O'Brien, pop culture columnist, blogger, and author of "A Suburban Mom: Notes from the Asylum" to about talk TV (or should we say TiVo)? Did you catch High School Musical 2? How about that kiss? If you notice a little static in this episode it's not your ears or your earbuds. For some random reason there is little static in the audio this week.

The Manic Mommies welcome certified life coach Sharon Teitelbaum to answer Erin & Kristin's questions about managing the stress of going back to school, tackling homework and how to handle peer pressure from other parents (let's face it, we're not all cut out to chaperone school trips). We also answer listener questions concerning how to take stock on your current career and the road ahead. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Erin and Kristin talk with Carrie and Suzanne - two of the five Divas from Divacast - about podcasting, mothering and friendship. Listen in as our podcasting "big sisters" serve up wisdom, humor, and advice with a distinctly southern flair. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links (really!)

The Manic Mommies welcome back our parenting coach Kathy to answer more listener questions. During Kathy's visit we discuss starting school; packing lunches (can you say Lunchables?); eating out with young children and what to about kids who don't listen. Kristin also shares (vents) about her husband's accident and their visit to the Emergency Room. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The Manic Mommies are joined by friend, listener and former guest host, Kelly. This manic mommy is making a big change - packing up all her worldly possessions and moving with her family to Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic. We discuss making the decision, preparing for the move and her family's last days in the United States. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The Manic Mommies mark their second year by bringing back a listener-favorite - "Magazines we'd read if we had an extra 6 hours a day." We share our thoughts on articles from Money Magazine, Parenting, Real Simple (of course), Better Homes & Garden and The Wall Street Journal. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Erin is away on vacation - but the show must go on! Kristin is joined by her friend Michele to discuss business travel, summer vacations and getting the kids to sleep. We also speak with Jennifer Trachtenberg, MD, author of Good Kids. Bad Habits. The Real Age Guide to Raising Healthy Children. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com for show notes and links.

This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by FruitaBu Organic Smoooshed Fruit Twirls.

The Manic Mommies had to take the week off due to a family emergency (fear not, the kids and husbands are fine). In our absence, we're airing a recent episode of the new podcast Jumping Monkeys featuring... us! We hope you enjoy the interview. Big thanks to Leo Laporte and Megan Morrone for saving the day. Visit www.ManicMommies.com or http://www.twit.tv/jm for show notes.

The Manic Mommies are joined by Kathy Maister, founder and cook-in-charge of StartCooking.com, a web site dedicated to teaching busy, talented people the absolute basics of cooking, with short cooking videos and step-by-step photo tutorials. Kathy shares her top tips for the beginning cook, advice on teaching yourself (and your kids) how to cook, and some of her favorite cookbooks. We also share more listener messages related to breastfeeding, pumping and birthday parties. This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by FruitaBu Organic Smoooshed Fruit Twirls. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Our listeners save the day (and the show) with their amazing e-mails and voicemails. The Manic Mommies respond to listener comments and questions about breastfeeding (at work and in the car), lost cellphones and wetting the bed. We also share more details about the Escape to Newport, RI on November 9 - 11th. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

For many of us, taking care of our bodies and eating right starts with pregnancy (and ends shortly after we stop breastfeeding!) Busy lifestyles can leave us skimping on nutritious and healthful meals. Dr. Hope Ricciotti, associate professor at Harvard Medical School, OB/GYN, mother of three, AND co-author of the new book "I'm Pregnant! Now What Do I Eat?" joins the Manic Mommies to talk about nutrition for every woman. Dr. Ricciotti also identifies some pregnancy superfoods and helps us sort out which foods are OK for an expecting mom and which ones must be avoided. This episode of Manic Mommies is sponsored by Fruitabu Organic Smoooshed Fruit Twirls.

The Manic Mommies talk with Cate Colburn Smith, co-author of the Milk Memos: How Real Moms Learned to Mix Business with Babies and How You Can, Too. Based on actual journals kept by a group of IBM women during their visits to the company's employee lactation room (OK, actually it was a former janitor's closet), Milk Memos provides an honest look at the challenges women face as they try to nurture both baby and career. Never judgmental or preachy, Cate might just inspire you to lug that breast pump into the office for another day! Visit our web site for show notes and links.

Dr. Mike Patrick, Jr. of Pediacast joins the Manic Mommies to answer questions from our listeners. In this episode, we tackle everything from skinny kids to bedwetting to allergies and various skin conditions. We also introduce our new sponsor, Fruitabu Smoooshed Fruit Twirls. Special thanks to Dr. Mike for stepping in for Dr. Rob this week. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Sometimes, all  it takes is a seemingly innocent school book fair to send a Manic Mommy over the edge. This week's show reflects what happens when two overworked, hyper-scheduled and tired moms take pause to gab over two icy cold cosmopolitans. Listen is as we tackle some of life's most pressing issues, from reality tv to women's magazines to... well, that's about it. We're just gettin' silly.

SAVE THE DATE!
Grab your best girlfriends and get ready to escape,  November 9-11, 2007, in beautiful Newport, Rhode Island. More on the Manic Mommies Escape coming soon.

Manic Mommies friend and listener Jessica joins us to share her experiences working with certified life coach Sharon Teitelbam. We discuss Jessica's struggle to balance work and family, how Sharon helped her identify what was most important and figure out how to get more without giving up all she's gained at home. In future episodes, Sharon will answer listener questions and address other work/life issues. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The Manic Mommies are thrilled to introduce the latest addition to our family, Sharon Teitelbam, a certified life coach who specializes in helping high-achieving women find balance in their work and personal lives. In this episode, we meet Sharon, learn about the benefits of coaching, and listen in as Sharon works with Jessica, a Manic Mommies listener struggling with whether to work more hours when her youngest starts school in September. In future episodes, Sharon will answer listener questions and address other work/life issues.

Our parenting coach Kathy makes a long overdue visit to tackle some listener mail and review lessons from a recent parenting workshop we attended. In this episode we discuss kids who wake up at night, what to do when there is a little instigator in the house, how best to handle meal times and those squabbling kids in the car. Keeping your cool is key. After all, do as we say, not as we do! Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The Manic Mommies talk with Dr. Min Ahn, medical director of the Aesthetic Wellness Center about the wide range of non-invasive, non-surgical treatments available today to rejuvenate facial skin. If you've ever been curious about lasers, Botox, or other wrinkle reducers and fillers, we've got the lo-down, including what it costs. We even let you in on a promising treatment for stretch marks. Yes, stretch marks. Disclaimer: This show is for informational purposes only and should not be deemed as an endorsement of any medical procedure, pharmaceutical product or cosmetic.

The Manic Mommies head into the Newbury Street studio of  Dari Michele, the highly sought after children's photographer, to find out how you can capture those magical moments at home and learn her secrets for getting the most out of a family portrait session. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - to enter our Mother's Day photography contest and you could win a visit from Dari to your home for a professional photo session!

Sisters and authors Patty and Gina, join the Mommies to talk about their book "Shut Up About Your Perfect Kid! The Movement of Imperfection." As mothers of children with disabilities, these moms know first hand the challenges of raising "imperfect" children in society, dare we say it, obsessed with perfection. We also talk about how a child's diagnosis can change the dynamics for many a mom's relationships and announce the winner of our Nintendo Wii giveaway! Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

We're playing it fast and loose on this week's show. The Mommies talk about TV with our reality-show round up - American Idol, Dancing with the Stars, Top Design, America's Top Model -  and play clips from ABC's new comedy "Notes from the Underbelly." We also discuss the controversial new book "The Feminine Mistake" and the potential economic repercussions for women opting out of the workforce. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Day care in the headlines again? We talk about the latest study and then turn our attention to more enjoyable fodder: magazines we'd read with an extra six hours a day. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, you've probably found yourself on more than one occasion searching for a way to cram in that sixth pair of shoes, or baby's favorite blanket, into your luggage. If you're the type who can't leave home without your cocktail dress, even when you're going to a cabin in the mountains, you'll love the advice from our guest Anne McAlpin, world traveler and author of "Pack It Up." We've got Anne's favorite packing and traveling tips, stories from our listeners, and Chris Christensen of the Amateur Traveler Podcast shares some valuable advice for enjoying the plane ride no matter what age your kids are! Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The new editor-in-chief of Working Mother Magazine Suzanne Riss joins the Mommies to chat about the many ways small companies are embracing more flexible work arrangements for their employees. Think mom-friendly perks like unlimited vacations, spa days and office space designed for kids! It's not just corporate giants making the list of top companies for working moms today. Want to get your boss with the program? We tell you how to get the ball rolling. Visit our web site, www.ManicMommies.com, for show notes and links.

On this, our first video podcast, the Mommies take you behind the scenes of the hit comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine" starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Join us "virtually" as we visit the set, meet the cast, mingle with the other mommy bloggers and hang out with the "Meanie Moms" (played by Tricia O'Kelley and Alex Kapp Horner). This is a Quicktime video - Audio version available for download. Visit our web site for show notes and links.

On this, our first video podcast, the Mommies take you behind the scenes of the hit comedy "The New Adventures of Old Christine" starring Julia Louis-Dreyfus. Join us "virtually" as we visit the set, meet the cast, mingle with the other mommy bloggers and hang out with the "Meanie Moms" (played by Tricia O'Kelley and Alex Kapp Horner). This is the audio version. Quicktime version also available to download. Visit our web site for show notes and links.

Oprah has her favorite things. The Manic Mommies have stuff we love. This show is all about the products, gadgets, toys, child and baby gear that make our lives easier, more enjoyable, or simply make us look half-way decent. Unfortunately, there's never enough time to cover everything so our show notes have the complete list. Listen in and maybe you'll discover some new stuff to love! REPOSTED due to mixing difficulties - sorry about that.

The Mommies welcome pop culture columnist, TV blogger and author Meredith O'Brien back to the show to celebrate the release of her new book "A Suburban Mom, Notes from the Asylum" and dish about the few good TV shows worth watching. Was Grey's Anatomy a sweeps stunt gone horribly wrong or an excuse to get viewers weeping?  We weigh in. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Erin & Kristin recap their trip to Hollywood and their madcap adventures trying to get home to the kids amidst a snow storm on the east coast. Special thanks to Robert at the Hertz counter in JFK airport. We share some Hollywood gossip as revealed in the pages of OK, US Weekly and Star, along with some helpful articles from magazines we'd read if we had an extra six hours a day.The Manic Mommies have returned (and recovered) from their trip to LA. During our trip we read a TON of magazines, and we're sharing our favorite articles from Real Simple, Us, The Week and The Wall Street Journal. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

February is Heart Health Month, and the Mommies are learning how to protect their health (in our copious spare time) with the help of Dr. Paula Johnson, Executive Director for the Connors Center for Women�s Health and Gender Biology. We also discuss our upcoming trip to Los Angeles - thanks to our trip sponsor, Yes To Carrots - and announce the winner of our SitterCity drawing. Visit our web site, www.ManicMommies.com, for show notes and links.

Our parenting coach Kathy returns to the show (finally!) to help Erin and Kristin tackle their most recent challenges: how to get rid of the binky and the best way to handle a sassy toddler with a fondness for biting. We also answer some listener questions about giving milk in a bottle and breastfeeding after returning too work. Visit our web site ManicMommies.com for show notes and links.

If you are a woman and also a mother, there are two things you can never have enough of: stylish shoes and qualified babysitters! Face it, you’ve asked your parents and in-laws for enough favors, it’s time to find a babysitter you can trust and rely on. Preferably one who drives. Genevieve Thiers, founder of Sittercity.com tells us how to access the world’s largest database of qualifies sitters and nannies and how to make your experience a positive one for your kids, yourself, and for your sitter. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Beth Feldman, working mom and co-founder of Rolemommy.com joins Erin and Kristin to chat up her hilarious new book "Peeing in Peace: Tales and Tips for Type A Moms," a bona fide playdate for your purse. Listen in as we discuss womanhood BC (before children) and AD (after diapers) and share tips for working moms trying to manage their kids and their Blackberries. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The Mommies share articles from magazines we�d read if we had an extra six hours a day and try to tell some positive stories about the kiddies for a change. Thanks for all those great iTunes reviews and a heartfelt welcome to all of our new listeners! Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com for show notes and links.

Dena Blizzard, co-host of the PBS television show “Real Simple,? a spin-off of Erin’s favorite lifestyle magazine, gives the Mommies a preview of what’s coming up on the show this season. Do you really need 8 glasses of water a day? Can you recreate the spa experience at home? Dena shares her experiences and talks about how she manages being a mother of three and a tv host. Did we mention she’s also a stand up comic? Dena’s one funny mother! Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

Think you know everything about the Manic Mommies? Erin and Kristin are marking their 50th show by sharing 50 things about themselves that you may (or may not) be surprised to learn. Plus, we announce a new contest - leave a review for the Manic Mommies on iTunes and you could win a Manic Mommies Baseball Jersey. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

You asked for it - you've got it... Erin and Kristin dig out episode 1 (originally recorded on July 10, 2005) as a special gift for our listeners. The sound quality is sketchy, and the kids are running wild in the background - but the content is pure Manic Mommies! Thank you to all the listeners who have hung in with us from the beginning and for spreading the word. Visit our web site for information about how you can win a Manic Mommies baseball jersey.

The Mommies rally after Erin's annual cookie swap to discuss preparing for the holidays, including decorating tips and last minute gift ideas. We also respond to your voicemails and e-mails, and announce the Bianca Ryan CD winners. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The Mommies record this week’s show from the Massachusetts Conference for Women. Imagine spending the day with 4,500 phenomenal women: Iman, Maya Angelou, Erin and Kristin, all in the same building! We’ll share the things we learned about women in leadership, women as negotiators and, of course, the beauty of Iman. Music from Celtic Woman Christmas and Bianca Ryan is played with permission. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The Mommies get real about the hellidaze and share their tips for streamlining the madness. Kristin offers some practical gift suggestions and Erin's got the 411 on tipping everyone from your hairdresser to your beloved day care providers. We'll have you asking: Why couldn't it be Christmas every day? Bianca Ryan music is played with permission. Visit our web site, www.ManicMommies.com, for show notes and links.

The Manic Mommies are taking a week off - but I hope you will enjoy this interview from Podcast 411.

Mary Jo Rulnick, author of “The Frantic Woman’s Guide to Feeding Family and Friends,? joins the Mommies for some pre-Thanksgiving prep and to share her secrets for meal planning and grocery shopping. Imagine shopping only once every two weeks! Mary Jo tells us how. And her book includes everything you need: shopping lists, menus and more. We also get a tip from a listener on how to save major bucks with an online grocery game. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.

The Mommies chat with another Erin this week — Erin Fuller, Executive Director of the National Organization of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) — who shares the latest data on women entrepreneurs. Kristin talks about her dislike of political parties and Erin can't get over the major news of the week: Rummy, K.Fed and Joey...they're all out! And this just in! Moms are drinking at playdates. Visit our web site - www.ManicMommies.com - for show notes and links.