Odd Moms On Call

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  • Raising Kids Beyond the Binary

    What Parents Really Think About the “Gender Wars”

    A Panel of Moms Talks Identity, Legislation, and Love

    In a climate where gender identity has become a cultural battleground, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a parent. But in Episode 5 of Odd Moms On Call, our diverse panel of moms brings nuance, honesty, and humanity back to the conversation.

    From Oklahoma to Vermont, our panelists share what it’s like to parent through a storm of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and rising political tension.

    An image of our Odd Moms Panel Members set against an orange background.
    Our Odd Moms Panel

    Britt, a non-binary mom raising a non-binary child, describes the healing of helping her kids find the words they never had.

    Jess, a psychologist in South Carolina, shares what it means to support trans youth when medical care is being banned.

    Tianna opens up about raising neurodivergent children with love, fluidity, and fierce compassion.

    Lindsey, a mom, artist, advocate, and creator of safe spaces, shares how she probes deeper when people point out gender norms.

    And Chelsea—non-binary parent, writer, chronic illness warrior —reminds us that kids often grasp what adults complicate.

    “Children aren’t too young to learn about gender,” Jess says. “They’re too young to be targeted.”

    an image of a child with a brightly colored hat, jumper, and sandals, jumping with their arms spread wide.
    Photo by Germu00e1n TR on Pexels.com

    Why This Episode Matters

    The conversation spans legislation, schools, identity exploration, and how parents are creating safe, affirming homes. There’s also humor (Skibidi toilet, anyone?), grace for those still learning, and unflinching honesty.

    Importantly, our panelists highlight resources for parents:

    Our Takeaway

    Parenting in 2025 means making space for your child to explore who they are—even if it scares you. Especially then. As Britt says, “You can’t indoctrinate a kid into loving themselves too much.”

    If you’re navigating gender identity parenting, know this: you’re not alone. And the kids? They’re alright.

    Listen to the full episode here, and let us know your thoughts on the state of The Gender Wars.

  • Odd Moms On Call Turns 10: Hot Takes, Glimmers, and Real Talk

    Hitting 10 episodes may not seem like a big deal in the podcasting world, but it is.

    As Chelsea shared at the beginning of this conversation, 90% of podcasts never make it past their tenth episode. For the Odd Moms, reaching this milestone felt like a collective exhale and a celebration of sticking with something that has become so much more than just a podcast.

    Photo by Ewel Z on Pexels.com

    Life Updates in a World on Fire

    The episode kicks off with each mom sharing what’s new in their lives. Britt opened up about the crushing realities of navigating healthcare while managing lupus, divorce, and single parenting. Their story highlights the absurd gaps in the U.S. system, where even healthcare workers struggle to access the care they provide to others.

    Lindsey shared her “glimmers”—from raising $20,000 for local food pantries to helping families impacted by addiction. Yet she also admitted to needing breaks from social media, especially in the wake of political polarization and religious extremism in her community.

    Jess described balancing heavy caseloads as a psychologist with the heartache of her daughter asking for more time together. Still, she found joy in celebrating family dreams fulfilled at her cousin’s new brewery.

    Chelsea reflected on the surreal experience of finding someone else with the same rare brain tumor and postpartum struggles, a connection they once thought impossible. It became a reminder of why story-sharing matters.

    Charlie Kirk, Vigils, and the Weight of Extremism

    Much of the conversation centered on the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination and the polarizing ripple effects across the country. From vigils and billboards to conspiracy theories and political manipulation, the moms wrestled with confusion, fear, and the need to speak carefully.

    As Britt put it, “People are losing their jobs, businesses, and safety over what they say online. It’s become so hard to find a cohesive understanding when someone’s opinion is that you shouldn’t exist.”

    The Odd Moms drew parallels between rising extremism in the U.S. and historical moments like the Holocaust, noting how marginalized groups—including immigrants, disabled people, and LGBTQ+ communities—are once again being targeted.

    The Power of Community and Mutual Aid

    Despite the heaviness, the Odd Moms kept returning to one central truth: connection is resistance.

    “Find your pockets of people,” Britt said. “Supporting our communities and not letting the bad win is the only way forward.”

    Mutual aid, small acts of kindness, and the Odd Moms’ own daily group chat have become lifelines. Each host reflected on how the podcast has empowered them to speak openly, feel less alone, and embrace community—even across distance.

    Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

    Hot Takes That Hit Hard

    The episode closed with a rapid-fire “hot take” round:

    • Chelsea: “The only thing more predictable than mass shootings in the U.S. is our government’s refusal to do anything about it.”
    • Britt: “Gender is a completely made up social construct meant to fuel suppression—and it harms everyone.”
    • Lindsey: “I don’t want religion anywhere near my child’s school. Period.”
    • Jess: “If you’re speaking on scientific research and claim correlation proves anything, you don’t understand research.”

    Each one served as both a mic-drop moment and a rallying cry.

    Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

    Why This Episode Matters

    Episode 10 of Odd Moms On Call is raw, emotional, and unapologetically human. It’s proof that even when the world feels like it’s burning, small communities of care can provide glimmers of hope, laughter, and strength.

    As Chelsea put it: “Speaking your truth should not put you in danger—for anyone.”

  • Scapegoats, School Shootings, and Safe Spaces: Parenting in 2025

    Parenting in the Age of Violence and Erasure

    Every parent wishes they could shield their children from the scariest headlines. But in today’s world—where mass shootings dominate the news, rainbow crosswalks are painted over, and politicians scapegoat trans communities—shielding isn’t enough. Parents have to talk, teach, and guide their kids through realities we wish they never had to face.

    That’s exactly what we tackled in episode nine of Odd Moms On Call, with hosts Britt, Kara, and Dr. Jess Rabon. Together, we unpacked the fear, misinformation, and resilience parents are navigating in 2025.

    The Dangerous Power of Scapegoating

    In the aftermath of the recent Minneapolis mass shooting, right-wing media outlets wasted no time turning the tragedy into an identity story. Instead of focusing on guns, they zeroed in on the shooter’s trans identity—ignoring the actual statistics.

    The truth? Research shows that 98% of mass shooters are men, and just a handful out of thousands have ever been trans. Trans individuals are far more likely to face violence than to commit it. When politicians and media twist the narrative, it not only distracts from real solutions like gun reform—it actively fuels stigma and puts LGBTQ+ youth in greater danger.

    Mental Health Isn’t the Enemy

    Another common scapegoat? Mental illness. Yet studies from the Columbia Mass Murder Database found that only about 3–5% of violent acts are committed by people with serious mental illness. And while antidepressants (SSRIs) are often demonized in the wake of tragedies, there’s no evidence they cause mass shootings. In fact, many shooters had no access to care at all.

    Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

    By blaming mental health instead of addressing systemic issues, politicians not only stigmatize those who are struggling—they also justify cuts to the very services that could prevent violence.

    Talking to Kids Without Breaking Them

    So how do we talk to our kids about these issues without overwhelming them? Kara and Jess both emphasize starting small and age-appropriate.

    • Preschoolers: Keep it simple. Answer their questions honestly, but focus on safety, kindness, and empathy.
    • School-aged kids: Talk openly about bullying, inclusivity, and how to speak up if they or their peers feel unsafe.
    • Tweens and teens: Bring in statistics and critical thinking. Help them navigate misinformation and media narratives.

    As Britt shared, sometimes it comes down to foundational truths: “At the end of the day, we’re all humans. What makes us different is what makes the world better.”

    Building Empathy and Connection

    The panel agreed—what really matters is connection. Kids need safe spaces where they can talk, question, and be affirmed for who they are. Parents can’t control every law, policy, or playground comment, but they can control how their kids feel at home.

    And connection isn’t just for kids. Parents also need grounding and community to stay resilient in times like these. As Jess put it: “Connectiveness is power. Without it, we retreat into isolation—and that’s when things get dangerous.”

    Final Thoughts

    Parenting in 2025 means raising kids in a world that often feels unsafe and hostile. But it also means modeling empathy, refusing to accept scapegoating, and showing up with love. We may not be able to choose the world our kids inherit, but we can choose how we show up in it—and that choice matters.

    Photo by Elina Fairytale on Pexels.com

    For resources on talking to kids about scary news, supporting LGBTQ+ youth, or taking political action, check out the show notes from this episode.

  • No Kings, Big Consequences: How Parents Are Navigating Protest, Politics, and Parenting in 2025

    In a year where the news cycle feels relentless, parents are asking themselves: How do we stay informed, speak out, and still protect our kids’ mental health? 

    Episode 8 of Odd Moms On Call brings Chelsea Myers, Britt Sandoval, Lindsey Basler, and Jess Rabon together to unpack the headlines and share their lived experiences of parenting in political chaos.

    The No Kings Movement: A Turning Point

    The conversation kicks off with the nationwide No Kings Movement protests. Millions marched in cities and small towns alike, standing up for democracy, LGBTQ+ rights, immigrant protections, and voting access.

    The Odd Moms discuss their own participation — from marching with kids to supporting from home — and the factors that go into deciding whether to bring children to demonstrations. For some, it’s about firsthand civic engagement; for others, it’s about ensuring their kids’ safety while still modeling activism in other ways.

    Parents and families joining together for the No Kings Protests across the country.

    Talking to Kids About Activism

    One of the main threads running through the episode is how to make activism age-appropriate. That can mean explaining why people are marching, what signs mean, or how protesting can bring about change — without overwhelming younger kids. Britt emphasizes the importance of teaching children their role in democracy early on, while Chelsea reminds listeners that activism can take many forms beyond protest signs.

    Global Crises

    The panel turns to the bombings in Iran and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, both of which are emotionally charged topics for parents. Jess makes the point that caring about children in conflict zones doesn’t require full political expertise. 

    “Starving a child is not a political stance.” 

    Lindsey notes that these conversations can be especially challenging when kids overhear news coverage, so parents have to filter information while still fostering empathy and awareness.

    Children starving and dying is not a political issue; it is a moral issue.

    Martial Law and Marriage Equality

    Closer to home, Trump’s declaration of martial law in D.C. sparks fears about militarized policing, detainment camps, and parallels to authoritarian regimes. The moms share their unease at the historical implications and what it means for civil liberties. 

    Equally concerning is the petition to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark ruling that legalized same-sex marriage. For Britt, as a queer parent, this threat feels deeply personal. The panel discusses the emotional toll of seeing hard-won rights under attack.

    Marriage equality has been shown to massively stimulate the economy and positively impact mental health.

    Finding Joy in the Heavy Moments

    Despite the weight of these topics, the episode ends with a focus on resilience. The Odd Moms talk about seeking “glimmers” — those small, joyful moments that keep burnout at bay. Whether it’s looking forward to a Taylor Swift album drop, enjoying a quiet coffee, or setting aside intentional time for rest, they emphasize that joy is not frivolous — it’s fuel for continued advocacy.

    Resources for Parents

    The panel shares several resources for parents looking to engage in activism or talk to their kids about tough topics:

    Muzzy Brand, Mina Doll pictured with add on book Mina & The Seeds Of Palestine

    Why This Episode Matters

    Parenting in 2025 means navigating an information-heavy world while protecting kids from despair. No Kings, Big Consequences offers solidarity for parents trying to do both. It’s a reminder that raising informed, empathetic kids is just as important as raising resilient ones — and that rest and joy are forms of resistance, too.🎧

    Listen to Episode 6 of Odd Moms On Call on BuzzSprout or wherever you get your podcasts.

  • Parenting in a Post-Roe America: How Reproductive Rights Shape Our Families

    Reproductive Rights Aren’t Just About Abortion

    Since the fall of Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights in America have shifted drastically. But for many families, it’s not just about abortion, it’s about how systemic control over bodies affects every decision, from conception to parenting.

    In a recent episode of Odd Moms On Call, the panel confront the emotional, political, and deeply personal toll of these laws.

    A positive pregnancy test and a fuzzy ultrasound image.
    Photo by olia danilevich on Pexels.com

    Real Stories, Real Impact

    The conversation opens with the tragic story of Adriana Smith, a Black mother in Georgia who was declared brain dead and kept alive to deliver a baby. “She was used as an incubator,” says Tianna, a NICU nurse and panelist, who shared how similar cases triggered her own PTSD.

    The episode reminds us that the U.S. maternal mortality crisis, especially for Black women, isn’t new. It’s just being thrust into the spotlight.

    Beyond the Headlines

    These laws aren’t theoretical. They’re changing lives. Kara Kushnir, LCSW, PMH-C, shares,

    “I work with women afraid to pursue IVF because they’re unsure what will happen to their embryos. Others are terrified they’ll be criminalized for miscarriages.”

    Courtney adds, “I’m getting my tubes removed. Not just because I’m done having kids, but because I’m scared.”

    a female surgeon performing a tubal ligation.
    Photo by Anna Shvets on Pexels.com

    The Mental Health Toll

    Beyond medical implications, the mental health fallout is profound. “We’re navigating vicarious trauma,” Kara explains. “Clients who are anxious now have legitimate fears rooted in policy.”

    Chelsea reflects on this added burden: “It goes way beyond medical. It’s emotional, political, and deeply personal. You wake up in a war zone just for existing.”

    Raising Kids with Autonomy

    But amidst the grief and anger, there’s hope. The panel discusses how they’re raising kids to respect consent and bodily autonomy. From using anatomically correct terms with toddlers to modeling healthy boundaries, it’s about more than sex ed. It’s abuse prevention, empowerment, and long-term change.

    “My daughter told her daycare friend, ‘I don’t want a hug right now, but I’ll give you a fist bump.’ That’s what hope looks like.” —Courtney

    Resources to Learn More

    Closing Thought

    Reproductive freedom doesn’t start or end with a single issue. It’s the foundation for how we care for ourselves, our children, and each other. As Chelsea says:

    “There’s room at the table for different opinions. But right now, the table is being taken away from us.”

  • Class Dismissed: The Dismantling of the Department of Education

    What Every Parent Needs to Know About the 2025 Education Shakeup

    In March 2025, the Trump administration issued an executive order dismantling the Department of Education, sparking confusion, outrage, and major concern for families across the United States. In our latest episode of Odd Moms On Call, we’re breaking down what this means, why it matters, and how the attack on DEI programs, student loans, and public school funding is already impacting kids today.

    What the Dismantling of the Department of Education Actually Means

    Despite political headlines, education standards, curriculum, and testing have always been controlled at the state level — not by the federal government. The U.S. Department of Education, created in 1980, mainly manages federal funding, civil rights enforcement in education, and the student loan system. (Learn more about what the Department of Education actually does here).

    Now, with nearly half of the department’s employees laid off, the dismantling is raising serious concerns around:

    • Student loan servicing and forgiveness programs
    • Federal education funding
    • Enforcement of civil rights protections in schools

    And here’s the problem: there’s no clear plan for what happens next.

    A teacher crouched down, helping a student at their desk.
    Photo by Arthur Krijgsman on Pexels.com

    Real-World Impact: DEI Programs, Student Loans, and Public School Chaos

    Across the country, the fallout has already started:

    • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs cut: After-school clubs and cultural initiatives are being shut down, even in diverse communities.
    • Federal funding threatened: Schools refusing to sign “compliance” letters against DEI initiatives risk losing critical funds.
    • Student loans thrown into chaos: Student loan servicing is shifting to the Small Business Administration, breaching millions of borrower contracts and potentially opening up legal challenges.
    • Teacher shortages grow: In states like South Carolina and Missouri, underfunded schools are struggling to retain quality educators.

    If you’ve been wondering how DEI cuts affect students, or what the Department of Education’s closure means for student loans, the answer is simple: it’s devastating — especially for marginalized and low-income families.

    Why Parents Should Care About Education Policy Changes in 2025

    This isn’t about politics — it’s about people. Without strong federal protections and funding systems, students with disabilities, students of color, and low-income students stand to lose the most.

    And while states may gain more “freedom” in theory, in practice, we’re seeing increasing government overreach, harmful cuts, and policies that put children at risk.

    As our panelist Midori shared: dismantling something without a strategic rebuild only breeds chaos and distrust — and it’s our children who will bear the cost.

    A frustrated child sitting in front of a row of cubbies.
    Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels.com

    How You Can Take Action

    • 📚 Find your state’s Department of Education and learn how local decisions are being made.
    • 🗳️ Vote in your local elections — school boards and state superintendents matter more than ever.
    • ✊ Advocate for public education, inclusive programs, and protections for all students.

    🎧 Listen to the full conversation on Odd Moms On Call and join us on Instagram @OddMomsOnCall where real moms break down the real-world impacts of political chaos on parenting.

  • U.S. vs. Canadian Healthcare: A Costly Comparison

    Ever had to choose between a doctor’s visit and groceries? If so, you’re not alone. In episode two of Odd Moms On Call, we’re diving into the stark differences between the U.S. and Canadian healthcare systems—two countries with vastly different approaches to medical care, yet both filled with frustrated parents navigating the system.

    From skyrocketing medical bills to long wait times, we share real-life mom experiences that highlight what works, what doesn’t, and what needs to change. Spoiler alert: This conversation was way too big for just one episode. We will continue the discussion in a future installment.

    a picture of a doctor with his arms folded across his chest.
    Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels.com

    Healthcare in the U.S.: A Pricey Gamble

    In the U.S., healthcare is often tied to employment, meaning a job change or layoff can put an entire family’s health at risk. Even with insurance, unexpected medical costs can lead to crushing medical debt. The for-profit nature of healthcare affects reimbursement rates. It also influences private insurance coverage and hospital costs. These factors all play a role in determining the level of care a patient receives.

    The Burden of Medical Debt

    Many Americans avoid seeking medical care due to cost concerns, often waiting until a minor issue becomes a major emergency. And when they do get treated? Bills can be life-altering. As one mom put it, “It’s a cyclical scam.”

    Long Waits for Mental Health Support

    For parents seeking mental health care for their kids, wait times can be agonizing—especially for those relying on state-funded programs. Some families wait months (or even years) to access therapy, leaving children without the support they desperately need.

    two patients wait in a waiting room while a doctor attends to another patient.
    Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

    Canadian Healthcare: Free, But Flawed

    Canada’s publicly funded healthcare system ensures no one goes bankrupt from medical expenses. Still, it’s far from perfect. Emergency care is generally accessible. However, finding a family doctor is becoming increasingly difficult. Specialist wait times can be painfully long.

    The Wait Time Dilemma

    Getting an appointment with a specialist—especially for mental health—can take months. While emergency care is usually prioritized, preventative services often take a backseat. “We need to find a middle ground,” one of our guests noted.

    The Hidden Costs of “Free” Healthcare

    While Canadians don’t pay out-of-pocket for doctor visits, private insurance is still needed for many essential services, like occupational therapy. And even though their system isn’t for-profit, low wages and burnout among healthcare workers contribute to ongoing systemic struggles.

    A family doctor listens to a patient's heartbeat and breathing with a stethoscope.
    Photo by Antoni Shkraba on Pexels.com

    What Needs to Change?

    Both countries have healthcare challenges that impact families in real and frustrating ways. Whether it’s tackling medical debt in the U.S. or improving preventative care in Canada, one thing is clear—change is needed.

    We’ll be revisiting this conversation in a future episode because there’s so much more to unpack. Until then, grab your coffee (or wine), and let’s keep the conversation going.

    Be sure to catch the full episode: Moms, Maple Syrup, and Medical Bills

  • Odd Moms On Call: Episode One – Parenting in Political Chaos

    Odd Moms On Call Logo with Microphone

    Strap In

    Welcome to the Odd Moms On Call Podcast! We’re a panel of moms from diverse backgrounds coming together to have real, unfiltered conversations about parenting in today’s challenging political climate. This podcast is all about creating a space for open discussion—without judgment—on the issues that shape our families, our communities, and our world.

    Why These Conversations Matter

    Parenting has never been easy, but today’s world presents unique challenges. The political landscape influences everything from education to mental health, and families—especially immigrant families—often find themselves at the center of national debates. In this episode, we discuss why it’s so important to have tough conversations and how community support can make a difference.

    mom having a serious conversation with her kids over dinner.

    The Impact of the Political Climate on Families

    Politics isn’t just about policies; it’s about people. Families today are navigating laws and rhetoric that affect their everyday lives, from school policies to healthcare access. Immigrant families, in particular, face systemic barriers that make raising children even more challenging. We explore how these issues shape the way we parent and why advocacy is essential for creating a more just society.

    Mental Health and Motherhood

    Parenting is an emotional rollercoaster, and mental health is often overlooked in discussions about raising kids. We share our own struggles and triumphs in maintaining mental well-being while juggling responsibilities. How do we protect our children’s mental health while also caring for our own? And how do we break generational cycles to raise emotionally intelligent, empathetic kids?

    Education and the Power of Knowledge

    Education plays a critical role in shaping our children’s futures and the values of society. From book bans to curriculum debates, we discuss how the current political climate is influencing what kids learn in schools. How can parents ensure that their children receive an inclusive and accurate education? And what role does activism play in safeguarding educational equity?

    Dehumanization and Its Consequences

    One of the most alarming trends in today’s political landscape is the dehumanization of marginalized groups. When political rhetoric reduces people to stereotypes or threats, it has real-world consequences. We examine how this impacts families, particularly immigrant communities, and discuss what we can do as parents to counteract harmful narratives.

    Raising Empathetic Children

    Empathy is the antidote to division. Teaching kids to see and respect the humanity in others is more important than ever. We share our personal approaches to raising compassionate, socially conscious children in a world that often encourages detachment and indifference.

    The Importance of Community Support

    No parent should have to navigate these challenges alone. Community support is vital, whether it’s through local networks, online groups, or activism. We talk about the power of collective action and how moms can lead the charge in advocating for change.

    Listen to the Full Episode

    Join us for this powerful conversation by listening to Episode One of Odd Moms On Call. Let’s start these discussions, support each other, and raise the next generation to be kinder, wiser, and more aware.

    Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue to explore the intersection of parenting, politics, and social justice.