The Modern Mom Podcast

Is it really possible to be a present mom and thrive in your career? Kendall Berg says yes, and she’s living proof. As the founder of That Career Coach, a corporate leader, mom of two, and author of Secrets of the Career Game, Kendall helps women navigate the unwritten rules of the workplace without burning out.In this episode, Kendall opens up about balancing motherhood with a demanding career, the challenges moms face in today’s corporate culture, and the smart strategies that help high-achieving women work with more clarity, confidence, and intention. Whether you're climbing the ladder or building your own business, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, supported, and ready to win, on your own terms.

In a time when diversity is being challenged and DEI efforts under fire, how do we raise kids who are proud of who they are? Sonia Smith-Kang, founder of the multicultural children’s brand Mixed Up Clothing and Vice President of Multiracial Americans of Southern California, joins us to talk about raising culturally grounded kids, building a global business rooted in representation, and what it means to lead with purpose.Sonia shares how fashion can spark meaningful conversations, how to “culture-proof” your home, and why creative resistance is more important than ever. This episode is a powerful reminder that identity is something to celebrate, not defend, and that motherhood can be an act of advocacy.

What if productivity wasn’t about doing more, but doing what matters, with more clarity and less burnout? Productivity Life Coach Emily Guerra joins us to talk about the power of mindful productivity, how to get out of your own head and into action, and why moms don’t have to hustle harder to find balance.Whether you're juggling Zoom calls, school pickups, or your own big dreams, this episode is packed with practical tips (and neuroscience-backed strategies!) to help you reclaim your time, energy, and mindset.It’s not just about getting things done, it’s about feeling good while doing them.

How do we raise kind, curious, civically engaged kids when the world feels… overwhelming? In this episode, political scientist and mom Dr. Lindsey Cormack joins us to talk about her book How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It’s Up to You to Do It), and why everyday parenting is more political (and powerful) than we think. We explore small but meaningful ways to model good citizenship, handle tough conversations, and build a stronger democracy from the ground up, starting in our own homes.Whether you’re politically active or politically exhausted, this episode is a gentle and hopeful reminder: you have more influence than you realize.

What does it take to build a 25-book career while raising young children in New York City? Lauren Willig, New York Times bestselling author of The Pink Carnation series and Band of Sisters, joins us to talk about nap-time writing sessions, letting go of perfection, and why creative work is just as valid as any 9-to-5. Whether you’re drafting your first novel or just trying to write an email in peace, Lauren’s story will leave you feeling seen and inspired.

This week on The Modern Mom Podcast, Winnie Sun sits down with Iman Cassells Alleyne: CEO, educator, and founder of Kind Academy. From building inclusive schools to mentoring women entrepreneurs, Iman shares how she’s helping families thrive through progressive education and purpose-driven business. Tune in for real talk on financial independence, scaling without burnout, and leading with heart.

When Joann Cartiglia started The Queen’s Treasures® out of her Pennsylvania home in 2005, she was on a mission to create affordable, high-quality toys that spark imagination, and not rely on batteries. Nearly two decades later, she’s not only built a beloved brand known for its historically inspired 18-inch dolls and furniture, but also become a powerful advocate for the toy industry at the national level.In this episode, we sit down with Joann to explore:The passion behind starting her toy companyWhy she manufactures in China and the impact of Trump-era tariffs on small businessesHer role on the Toy Association’s Legislative CommitteeHow she’s preparing for the future of toy-making in AmericaAnd what makes The Queen’s Treasures® so unique in a crowded marketSupport Joann here: https://www.thequeenstreasures.com/

In this candid episode of the ModernMom Podcast, certified sex coach Sofia Ashley gets real about the challenges of maintaining a healthy sex life after kids. As a mom and stepmom who’s reinvented her libido three times, Sofia shares her personal journey and practical tips for parents struggling to reconnect with their sexual selves. From debunking common myths about libido to offering actionable advice on how to reignite intimacy, Sofia brings the real talk and magic needed to transition-proof your sex life. Tune in for an empowering conversation on why a healthy sex life matters and how to get it back after kids.

In this episode of the ModernMom Podcast, we sit down with René Syler, former anchor of The Early Show and author of Good Enough Mother, to discuss her journey from the newsroom to redefining her life after the kids left home. René opens up about her transformation, from her career in television to becoming a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness and health, managing relationships with adult children, and embracing her own health journey. We also dive into the powerful lessons she’s learned from turning 62 and living authentically. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about embracing the next act in life.