Shepack Unleashed

S1 Eps 18: Embracing New Mom Styles

Join us on ShePack Unleashed as we embark on a journey through the evolution of our styles, thoughts on parenting, trends, and everything in between. In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of maintaining our individuality while navigating the multifaceted roles of womanhood, from embracing changing fashion trends to contemplating the impact of our choices on our children. Through candid conversations and insightful reflections, we explore how our personal styles and perspectives have evolved over the years, all while ensuring we stay true to ourselves. Tune in as we share anecdotes, discuss challenges, and celebrate the joys of self-discovery in the midst of life's ever-changing landscape. Don't miss this empowering and relatable episode of ShePack Unleashed.

S1 Eps 17: Navigating Careers and Motherhood in the Millennial Age

Welcome to an episode of ShePack Unleashed – a candid conversation between mothers who are thriving in their various career paths while balancing parenthood. In this enriching episode, hosts Ashley, Nichole, Tania, and Jenny share their unique journeys, challenges, and triumphs, painting a true-to-life picture of the modern millennial woman's journey.
From exploring the complexities of dual-career families and work-from-home landscapes to discussing personal adjustments to corporate life and motherhood, this episode is a treasure trove of personal narratives and expert advice. Regardless of whether you're a corporate worker or have taken a less traditional career path, we reassure you that every journey comes with its unique set of challenges and triumphs.
In an attempt to demystify work-life integration, the episode dissects the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, scheduling, managing child care, and the transitioning of work environments in detail. Whether you're working remotely, adhering to a hybrid schedule, or working on-site, gain insights on how each unique arrangement impacts daily routines and motherhood.
Hear personal stories about switching jobs, transitioning from being an individual contributor to a people manager, and experiences of re-joining the workforce after a hiatus. From discussing the pressure of upholding professional ambitions alongside family responsibilities to sharing insights on managing recent graduates, leadership, and fostering the next professional generation, this episode is an enlightening guide for every working millennial mother.
Join us as we forge ahead, challenge norms, comfort and encourage each other, sharing the highs and lows of our shared journey. Tune in to ShePack Unleashed: Striking the Balance, as we dwell on the joy and struggles of our tribe.

S1 Eps 16: Reimagining Traditions: Creating Meaningful Rituals for Modern Families

In this tender and heartening episode, we navigate the dynamic terrain of traditions and their enduring power within familial and friendship structures. We elucidate about not only family-based traditions, but also those we've created with our companions, forging precious memories that traverse generations and geographical limits.Listen as we divulge how our children's perspectives are being broadened by these friend-based traditions, and how we've uncovered the thrilling novelty within holiday festivities and vacations, stepping beyond our comfort zones. We delve into how these 'found family' customs have enriched our lives and built firm, lively social networks for our offspring.Delve deeper as we discuss the challenge of balancing age-old traditions with budding experiences, moulding a lifestyle that encompasses both the past and the present. Join us on a journey of acknowledging the comforting predictability and the thrilling novelty tradition can bring into our lives. This conversation on tradition evolution is sure to resonate with listeners, can help to foster fresh perspectives and even inspire the creation of new traditions.From personal experiences with holiday breakfasts, church services, and Christmas morning surprises, to the intricate emotions and memories these traditions evoke - our speakers provide engaging insights into how traditions can simultaneously represent comfort and confrontation. Alongside negotiating new arrangements within families, the episode also addresses how the dialogue enables striking the right harmony between individual, familial, and cultural expectations.Finally, discover some unique family traditions that we enjoy, like a cinema-themed 13th birthday or an adventure trip to China, and feel motivated to create or share your own. Throughout our dialogue about these cherished customs and traditions, we celebrate the importance of creating cherished memories and cultivating love and connectedness. Let's all stay wild, fierce, and passionately engaged with the traditions that make us what we are today!

S1 Eps 15: Unpacking the Dynamics of Living Child-Free

In this episode of ShePack Unleashed, join hosts Tania, Nichole, Ashley, as they engage in a compelling conversation about the conscious decision to lead a child-free life. The special guest, Agnieszka, a thriving dental technician from Chapel Hill, offers invigorating insights into her journey of intentional childlessness and challenges the typical societal norms surrounding motherhood.
Here, we investigate the expanding trend amongst millennial women opting for a life without children. We use Agnieszka’s experiences to explore the complexities behind this major life decision, shedding light on an often overlooked topic. This episode acts as a catalyst for more open discussions about motherhood and female independence by questioning rampant societal expectations.
Delve into the realities of living child-free in a family-centric society, as we illuminate the impact of individual decisions over societal conventions. Experience illuminating personal anecdotes that signify the freedom and flexibility that comes with child-free living. The conversation also highlights the significance of honesty during discussions about parenthood and its challenges.
Furthermore, the episode examines the correlation between opting for a child-free life and career aspirations. It emphasizes how individual capabilities and desires often supersede societal narratives of the 'have-it-all' expectation, fostering a balanced and respectful dialogue about personal choices.
The episode details the experiences of Agnieszka living amidst a family-friendly neighborhood as a child-free individual, presenting a new perspective on female friendships and community participation. Discover how her seemingly quiet life is filled with parties, casino nights, and wine tastings, proving that a child-free life, too, can be rich and rewarding.
This episode is an eye-opener for anyone contemplating childlessness or simply interested in learning about alternative lifestyle choices. Encouraging individuals to embrace life decisions that echo their truth, this episode offers a refreshing outlook on taking the child-free path.

S1 Eps 14: The She's Do the Keys

Join us on an exhilarating journey as ShePack Unleashed ventures into the heart of the Florida Keys, exploring the vibrant hometown of one of our host, Nichole. In this special episode, we take you along for the ride on a whirlwind 72-hour adventure packed with excitement, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. From the moment we set foot on the sun-kissed shores of Nichole's hometown, we are captivated by the charm and beauty of this tropical paradise. Picture-perfect palm trees sway in the gentle ocean breeze as we embark on our exploration of this hidden gem nestled amidst the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As we traverse the quaint streets and colorful alleyways, we immerse ourselves in the rich history and culture of the Keys, uncovering hidden treasures and local secrets along the way. From historic landmarks to hidden beaches, each corner holds a new surprise waiting to be discovered. But our adventure doesn't stop there. With Nichole as our guide, we dive headfirst into the exhilarating activities that make the Keys a playground for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. But amidst all the excitement and adventure, it's the moments shared with friends that truly make this journey unforgettable. With laughter echoing through the air and bonds strengthened with each passing moment, our time in Nichole's hometown becomes a cherished memory that will last a lifetime. So buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable ride as ShePack Unleashed takes you on a wild journey through Nichole's hometown in the FL Keys. From breathtaking landscapes to heart-pounding adventures, this episode is sure to leave you craving your own slice of paradise in the Sunshine State.

S1 Eps 13: All The Holes.....

Welcome to a revealing episode of ShePack Unleashed aimed at exploring the often under-discussed but critical aspect of women's health - the pelvic floor. We're joined by Jennifer Harrington, an experienced pelvic floor physical therapist, who shares her insights on the importance of understanding, caring for, and strengthening your pelvic floor. Jennifer offers a comprehensive break-down of common misconceptions, typical issues of pelvic floor dysfunction and effective solutions.
Aside from pregnancy and childbirth, listen to Jen uncover how the health of your pelvic floor may impact various aspects of life and potentially affect men, women, and non-binary individuals. Hear personal experiences, funny anecdotes, and crucial tips, whether you're dealing with bladder or bowel issues, pain during intercourse, or constipation. Our candid discussion aims to increase understanding of the pelvic floor's role in overall health, inviting you to partake in an empowering exploration of women's health.
Highlighting fascinating insights from specialized training in pelvic floor assessment and treatment, Jen elaborates on the critical importance of internal orthopedic assessments for understanding pelvic floor health. Discover how maintaining strong pelvic floor muscles is not always desirable, as excessive tension can often lead to significant health issues. The talk also reveals the potential influence of emotional factors and stress levels on pelvic floor tension, suggesting a holistic approach to its health.
Delving further into the therapy sessions, our discussion examines the use of tools like a G-spot vibrator for stretching and healing scar tissues. Listen to Jen emphasize the importance of a balanced therapy approach and the need for individual comfort and trust in the therapist. She also discusses the significant role of sex education and the importance of early treatment of pelvic floor issues.
Tune in to learn how an improved pelvic floor health can contribute to more fulfilling orgasms and overall sexual health. This discussion compellingly portrays that, irrespective of your gender, pelvic health is an essential aspect often neglected in societal conversations and comprehension. Become a part of this empowering discussion, and discover how understanding your pelvic health can better impact your overall well-being.

S1 Eps 12: Parental Peer Pressure

Widely evoked, the modern challenges of parenting center around the need to 'Keep Up with the Joneses'. In this illuminating episode of ShePack Unleashed, we dissect these intricate challenges with the help of our spirited hosts, Tania, Nichole, Ashley, and Jenny. Peruse our captivating conversation as we break down the social media 'Highlight Reel,' child influencers, and discover the pressing need for balanced legal regulation.
We transition smoothly into probing the depths of parent-child interactions, shedding light on the essential areas of budgeting, embracing authentic moments, and understanding the widespread concept of the 'currency of consumption.' Our insightful hosts navigate the labyrinth of digital age parenting pressures and offer innovative ways to stay rooted amidst the rapid pace of modern life.
The course of our dialogue shifts to analyze the increasing impact of consumer culture on parents and their children. We delve into everyday topics such as trendy brand items, the latest tech devices, and popular activities like Elf-on-the-Shelf. With a conscientious angle, we explore the financial and environmental implications of over-consumption, providing substantial food for thought for discerning parents.
We emphasize the importance of instilling values associated with monetary prominence and belongings' respectful handling in our children. The narrative includes a thoughtful rumination over holiday traditions, potential areas of mindful gifting, and nurturing active engagement, drawing a holistic picture of children's development from a contemporary perspective.
Finally, we discuss about our personal experiences of consignment shopping, presenting a thoughtful examination of our conventional consumer choices. Embark on our exciting journey as we traverse the intricate expanse of parenting pressures and children's trends; offering inspiration, insight and infectious laughter along the way.
Subscribe to ShePack Unleashed for more erudite and engaging discussions. Stay wild and fearless!

S1 Eps 11: Generational Differences: A Millennial Perspective

Welcome to another episode of the ShePack Unleashed podcast. In this enlightening episode, we explore parenting styles across generations, focusing on our hosts' experiences as Millennial parents uniquely raised by Baby Boomer and Generation X parents. Discover how the hosts navigate digital-age parenting, balancing work-life, fostering shared household responsibilities, and combatting information overload.
Listen in as hosts Tania, Nichole, Ashley, and Jenny share their candid and deeply personal stories. They delve into the stark differences between their own upbringing and the ways they raise their children today. Special emphasis is given to fostering honesty within the family, discipline, the imparting of independence, along with the usage of innovative parenting tools like Parent-child journals.
 The hosts also touch upon the exciting change as they witness their own parents transform into grandparents, and the wisdom they impart in this new role.
This insightful episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring the evolution of parenting styles through generations. It serves as a heartwarming message that change, growth, and evolution are always possible, regardless of your age. Join our hosts as they take you through this enriching journey of parenthood, which will undoubtedly provoke reflection on your childhood and inspire fresh perspectives on your parenting style!

S1 Eps 10 Balancing Values and Educations: Navigating the decision of schools

Welcome to a new episode of ShePack Unleashed, where we delve into discussions around education and the challenging decisions of choosing the right school for your child. In this candid exchange, we listen to Jenny, an education advocate, and other parents’ personal schooling experiences. Explore a range of educational systems including public, charter, magnet, private schools, and homeschooling. This enlightening conversation helps clarify aspects of these educational options and provides a guide on what to anticipate with each choice.
As we attempt to harmonize education with personal values, selecting a school system becomes more complex. Despite this, the Shepack share their genuine experiences and insights about navigating the educational journey for their children. They discuss prioritizing factors such as multiculturalism, language learning, personal struggles. Listen to dynamic perspectives from Ashley, who shares her positive standpoint on Durham Public Schools even with unfavorable public perception, underlining the importance of personal research.
Dive deeper into the relevance of teacher retention, school equity, socio-cultural diversity in the schooling environment, and potential bias based on socio-economic issues in the selection process. A thought-provoking discussion on topics such as resource distribution among different school types and the voucher system is also offered. The conversation also sheds light on personal compromises some parents have made for the sake of their child's mental health and education.
This episode is a must-listen for providing a well-rounded perspective on navigating school choices amid uncertainties, with a combination of personal experiences and professional insights. Tune in to "Navigating School Choices: A Parent's Insight on Modern Education" on this week's episode of ShePack Unleashed as we traverse this crucial journey and redefine the nature of education in our rapidly transforming world.
Conclude the discussion with an opportunity to share your experiences and perspectives on schooling. Stay updated with ShePack Unleashed by subscribing and staying connected through social media for more genuine exchanges about relatable societal topics.

S1 Eps 9: A Digital Parenting Dilemma

Welcome to a gripping episode of ShePack Unleashed where your hosts: Tanya, Nichole, Ashley, and Jenny, delve into modern parenting's unique challenges amidst the vast digital exposure landscape. In this candid chat, we unravel our individual family struggles in tackling children's screen time, sharing effective strategies and insights we've picked up on our journey.
Our discussion spans everything from managing screen time rules, using parental control apps, to the repercussions of the pandemic on children's digital habits. We also discuss our approach towards screen time privileges and understand the need for an adaptive strategy that caters to each child's distinctive needs.
Discussing Strategies for Managing Screen Time
This insightful discussion dives deep into strategies for managing screen time. Hard limits, app-specific boundaries, and daily screen time end schedules – we talk about it all. Engross yourself in our tales of success and struggle as we share how we've managed to navigate this digital terrain and the effects of these decisions on our family dynamics.
Screen Time and Family Life
As the dialogue progresses, we focus on the roles screens play in family leisure time, the emotional responses they stimulate, and the implications this carries. With intriguing perspectives around screens as stimuli and analyzing whether screens should be restricted entirely or integrated into daily family activities, the episode equips listeners with a comprehensive view of managing digital exposure in children’s lives.
The Screen Time Trade-Off
Parenting in the digital age is complex, and the discussion advances to how screen time often becomes an incentive for children to fulfill their duties. While the desire to have children bask in the joy of their digital pursuits is there, the challenge remains to ensure they don't become overly invested in it.
Reflections on Presence
Our discussion concludes on a thoughtful note, emphasizing the principle of presence. We acknowledge that the enjoyment and benefits of screens are significant, yet, being present with each other beyond the digital realm and promoting creativity also holds importance – a delicate balance indeed!
Join us in this stark exploration of contemporary parenting issues and let's navigate the world of screen-time management together.