In this episode of From 9 to Mom, we’re diving into a topic that’s suddenly everywhere: plastics, microplastics, “clean living,” and the overwhelming pressure moms feel to somehow detox their entire homes overnight. 😵‍💫

We’re joined by Jessica Franklin, busy mom, health coach, and host of The Live Lightly Podcast, to break down what actually matters when it comes to plastics, toxins, and low-tox living… without spiraling into fear or throwing out every sippy cup you own tomorrow.

From plastic cutting boards and kids’ lunch gear to hidden plastics in bedding, clothing, and everyday products, Jessica helps us understand where these exposures are really coming from, what the science says about microplastics and hormone disruption, and how moms can make practical swaps without adding another full-time job to the mental load.

We also talk about:
• The truth behind “BPA-free” labels
• Why plastic cutting boards became everyone’s villain origin story
• The hidden plastics most families never think about
• Affordable, realistic swaps that actually make sense
• How to avoid fear-based wellness marketing
• The balance between awareness and overwhelm

If you’ve watched the documentaries, fallen down a TikTok rabbit hole, or stood in Target staring at “eco-friendly” labels wondering what any of it means… this episode is for you.

Because healthy living shouldn’t require a chemistry degree, a full pantry relabel, or losing your sanity in aisle 12. 💛

Sign up for the Microplastics Masterclass here: https://livelightly.myflodesk.com/microplasticmasterclass

Featuring: Jessica Franklin of The Live Lightly Podcast

Everyone has an opinion… especially once you become a mom. 😅 In this episode, Catie and Danielle dive into the overwhelming world of advice, from parenting tips and social media “experts” to professional feedback and personal growth. They talk about how to filter the noise, trust credible sources, and take advice with grace without losing confidence in yourself along the way.

The conversation covers information overload, motherhood, mental health, trusting professionals, and learning when to listen… and when to let the advice scroll right on by. Plus, the hosts share personal stories about navigating feedback, building trust, and protecting their peace in a world full of opinions.

If you’ve ever felt buried under unsolicited advice, conflicting parenting recommendations, or the pressure to “do it all right,” this episode is your reminder that you know yourself and your family better than anyone else.

✨ Topics Covered:

• How to take advice without taking it personally
• Managing information overload as a mom
• Trusting experts vs. social media opinions
• Parenting advice, professional growth & self-confidence
• Setting boundaries and protecting your mental well-being

⏱ Chapters:
00:00 Navigating Advice in Motherhood
02:57 The Challenge of Information Overload
05:39 Finding the Right Sources of Advice
08:50 The Importance of Professional Guidance
11:38 Personal Experiences and Parenting
14:27 Building Trust in Relationships
17:20 Embracing Vulnerability and Growth
20:19 Practicing Receiving Feedback

This week on From 9 to Mom, we’re diving into the beautiful, chaotic, emotionally loaded glitter tornado that is Mother’s Day. 🌷

From the pressure of making the day “perfect” to the reality of May-sember schedules, sports, school events, and trying to enjoy one uninterrupted hot coffee, we’re talking about what moms actually want for Mother’s Day.

We get honest about expectations vs. reality, gift giving fails and wins, mom guilt, and why sometimes the best gift isn’t flowers or jewelry... it’s being acknowledged without having to delegate your own celebration. 😅 We also share the moments and memories that matter most, how motherhood shifts friendships and family dynamics, and why celebrating together can make the chaos feel a little sweeter.

If you’ve ever said “I don’t need anything” while secretly hoping someone planned literally anything... this episode is for you.

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Balancing Work and Motherhood
00:19 Celebrating Mother's Day: Reflections and Realities
00:44 Balancing Motherhood and Work: The Ongoing Struggle
00:46 The Chaos of May-Sember
03:42 Expectations vs. Reality on Mother's Day
06:29 Gift Giving and Personal Preferences
09:27 Mom Guilt and Balancing Family Dynamics
12:17 Creating Meaningful Memories
15:08 Celebrating Motherhood Together
18:02 The Importance of Acknowledgment
21:01 Final Thoughts on Mother's Day