Nicole Nalepa - Podcast Details

Shows

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 80: MOMMY PROFILE - Comedian and Groundlings Alum, Nicole Burch on MotherhoodMotherhood is a comical journey in so many ways… and in this special “Mommy Profile” episode of “Mommyhood Unscripted”, we are chatting with comedian, viral sensation, and Groundlings alum – Nicole Burch. Perhaps you’ve seen her on your social media feeds – since she has amassed over 60-million views across platforms; or you’ve seen her critically acclaimed comedy specials: “Never Been Kissed” and “Mama Drama”. Right now, she’s touring around the country with her brand-new, stand-up show, “Mama Drama”, in which she chronicles her journey through single motherhood, tackling everything from pregnancy – to ultimately meeting the love of her life. In this candid conversat...2025-08-0527 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 79: MOMMY PROFILE - Actress and Broadway Star Kelli O'Hara on Motherhood, Chasing Your Dreams, and Being True to YourselfHave you ever wondered how those who dream it, actually make it happen? In this episode, Nicole has an inspiring conversation with Kelli O'Hara — a Tony Award winner, Emmy and Grammy-nominated actress. Kelli hails from a small town in Oklahoma and headed to the Big Apple in her 20s with the goal of making it to Broadway. Not only did she do that, but she also achieved another dream — she became a mom. But how is she able to make it all work on-stage and off, on-camera and off? Kelli shares some beautiful insight into this and also leaves us w...2025-07-1733 min

Chaz and AJ In The MorningMonday, June 2: Top 10 Arnold Quotes, Singing Airplane Kid, Nicole NalepaArinette in middle school was in charge of this morning's Chaz and AJ Top 10 list, and had the most fun asking the Tribe to do their best Arnold impression while guessing his top movie quotes. (0:00) Two people were rescued from Long Island Sound, after a plane went down over the weekend. Chaz and AJ spoke with Danny Coughlin, Assistant Chief with the New Haven Fire Dept., about the rescue efforts between his department, the Branford FD and the Coast Guard. (14:43) In Dumb Ass News, Chaz and AJ had an update from a story they did last we...2025-06-0251 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 78: MOMMY PROFILE - Caroline Olson on Being a ‘Mompreneur’Have you ever heard of the term, "mompreneur"? It's a mother who owns and runs her own business — hence the combo of words: "mom" and "entrepreneur". Nicole sits down with Caroline Olson--a mom of 3 young boys--who chased a dream when she was 3 months pregnant with her first. She ended up opening up a boutique called, "Pearls and Plaid" and now her business has grown to 3 different brick and mortar stores located in 3 different shoreline communities spanning across two different states in New England. But how did she make this all come to fruition? Is there such thing as a 'b...2025-05-3030 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 77: Breaking the Weight Loss CurseIf you are of the generation when magazines were the comparison when it came to unrealistic beauty standards, your parents or you were consuming diet drinks and snacks like candy, and all you thought about was getting to that ideal number on the scale — then please, listen up. Counting calories and inherited body shame is not the way you want to operate, according to Carrie Lupoli. She is a certified nutritionist, award-winning behavior specialist and educator in schools around the world who’s dedicated to empowering women through sustainable health solutions. After overcoming her own struggles with disordered eating, she f...2025-05-2729 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 76: The Sandwich Generation and Forecasting Long-Term Care NeedsThe Sandwich Generation and Forecasting Long-Term Care Needs 2025-04-1730 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 75: The Truth About Eating DisordersEvery 52 minutes, someone dies as a direct result of an eating disorder in the U.S. -- making them one of the deadliest yet most overlooked mental challenges in our country. Plus, the fact that over 30 million Americans are affected by this silent crisis drives home the fact of why it's so important that we talk about this difficult topic. Nicole chatted with Johanna Kandel who is the Founder and CEO of The National Alliance for Eating Disorders. Not only has Johanna recovered from a decade-long battle with an eating disorder, but she has made it her mission to...2025-03-1828 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 74: Healthy Habits to Help You ThriveHow often do you put your needs on the backburner? It’s easy to do, since so many people depend on you. But what if we told you it’s actually imperative that you put yourself first? Well, get ready…because this is a conversation every mom needs to hear! It’s all about healthy habits you can instill in your life and put into action so you can THRIVE! Nationally certified health and wellness coach and registered nurse, Kristen Reed of “Nursing Your Way to Wellness” is back on “Mommyhood Unscripted” with 5 simple tips to get you ahead of the formidabl...2025-03-1829 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 73: Dating and Marriage Advice for MommiesThis is a special episode all about love -- whether you're in a relationship, married, single, or perhaps on a mission to setup a friend up with someone. Dating coach and Netflix star, Aleeza Ben Shalom joins Nicole for an in-depth conversation. In addition to her Netflix series, "Jewish Matchmaking", Aleeza is busy working with people of all backgrounds and just came out with a book called, "Matchmaker Matchmaker: Find Me a Love That Lasts". So be prepared to find out what you may be doing wrong, what you're doing right, and how you can secure a love that...2025-03-1831 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 72: The Truth Behind Mommy Wine CultureAlcohol. It's one of the most addictive drugs in America, and it's also the most socially acceptable one. How many times have you seen products or memes on social media promoting drinking "...because motherhood is hard"..."Mommy needs wine"....or "I wine because my kids whine". Everyone's relationship with alcohol is different -- but for those who really struggle with it, it can be a matter of life or death. Celeste Yvonne is the author of the book, "It's Not About The Wine: The Loaded Truth Behind Mommy Wine Culture" -- which explores why mothers are drinking m...2025-03-1830 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 71: A Guide to Video Game SafetyVideo games were created as a form of entertainment. But for many parents, the concerns over their children's safety--when playing multi-player games online (and too much screen time) seems to be top of mind. So how can we ensure that our kids are picking the right games? And is there a way we can monitor things? Nicole chats with Aubrey Quinn, the Senior Vice President of the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). She has all the answers to our questions — including everything we need to know about parental controls on these gaming devices — so you can make more of an info...2025-01-2029 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 70: Peloton’s Selena Samuela With Motivation to Get You Moving in the New YearMommyhood Unscripted is starting off a new season and a new year with some motivating words and stories from Peloton coach and fellow mama, Selena Samuela. In this episode, Nicole and Selena KEEP IT REAL talking about the highs and lows of motherhood, their postpartum bodies, and the struggle moms experience when it comes to actually getting our bodies moving! If it's one thing moms feel they don't have enough of, it's time. But Selena has some inspiring tips to help us all maximize the minutes for the sake of your health!Happy listening...and r...2025-01-0627 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 69: Setting Your Kids up for Success This Holiday SeasonConsider this your crash course on how to approach the holiday chaos with your children -- both young and old. What can you do to set your family up for success? What things will you be doing that may result in a difficult day of parenting? This season is a time of joy, a time of being cranky and overtired, but it's a time of being together. National parenting expert, Danielle Lindner joins Nicole back on the show for some great tips including: some fun ideas that won't break the bank -- or send you into a panic because...2024-12-2329 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 68: Navigating the Holidays With a Picky EaterThe holidays are a time of joy, yet they can also be a time of stress -- especially if you have a picky eater on your hands. The holidays are also notorious for throwing routines off -- which is something our kids thrive on. So if you're already fretting over how the special holiday meal at grandma's is going to go, or how you're going to deal with the relatives saying something about your child or doing something with your child involving food, then this episode is for you! With over 2 MILLION followers on her Instagram account, "K...2024-12-1629 min

Chaz and AJ In The MorningMonday, Dec. 9: Chaz Tries Pho, A Christmas Tree Fail, Nicole Nalepa and Jimmy Koplik Hints at Shows on SaleChaz had lunch with Connoisseur Media CEO Jeff Warshaw on Friday in Bridgeport. Chaz admitted it was his first time ever trying pho, and was not impressed immediately by just looking at it. (0:00) In Dumb Ass News, Chaz and AJ had audio of a Christmas tree lighting ceremony that never got the lights to work. (5:49) Nicole Nalepa from Channel 3 was on the phone with Chaz and AJ this morning to talk about her appearance at the Toy Drive on Friday. Nicole will be a part of the on stage "cat-aoke" competition. (11:57) Live Nation's Jimmy K...2024-12-0922 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 67: Thriving through the Holidays with ADHDThe holiday season is full of fun activities and family time, but it can also be super overwhelming -- especially if you're a parent with ADHD. Not only are you shouldering the weight of the holidays for your children--but you're trying to keep track of and plan out the decorating, the lists, the shopping, the cooking, the gatherings; and then there's the overstimulation brought on my the chaos of this time of year and the sugar! Our brains are consumed with every little detail, yet the thought of executing anything can feel daunting. So how can we better position...2024-12-0928 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 66: NYT bestselling children's author and illustrator, Jan Brett#1 New York Times bestselling author and illustrator, Jan Brett has brought to life lovable characters and imaginary backdrops for children for more than 40 years. With over 40 books--and over 44 million books print--her work continues to add to so many childhoods around the world. Jan also just came out with a new book: "Alice in a Winter Wonderland", which is a striking rendition of the classic story of "Alice in Wonderland". Nicole had a chance to catch up with the author and illustrator before her special bus tour, in which she'll be visiting 23 cities across the country in just 17 d...2024-12-0226 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 65: MOMMY PROFILE - From the Red Carpet to Staying-At-HomeThis episode features a real, raw conversation between two moms regarding careers and the struggles and sacrifices women make to become a mom. Dorothy Cascerceri Simone knows about this all too well as she learned to navigate some highs and lows -- both professionally and personally. She worked for the magazines: People, In-Touch Weekly, and Life & Style and appeared on various national T.V. segments, among a slew of other things; but Dorothy ended up trading her red-carpet events for staying-at-home with her son. Then the road to having her daughter was unfortunately paved with hardship: rounds of IVF...2024-11-2533 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 64: How to Get Your Kids to Actually Do Their ChoresDo you remember the chores your parents assigned to you, once upon a time? Is this something you plan to implement in your household, or are you struggling with where to start? In this episode, we're exploring how we--as parents and caregivers--can connect our children to tasks at home that will be meaningful and rewarding to them (in other words, how to make sure they'll get done)! Nicole consults with parenting expert, Lori Sugarman-Li about this topic. She explains why dishing out chores are beneficial for our children's development and their future. Lori is the author of t...2024-11-1829 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 63: Getting Organized 101Once you become a parent, it can be extra hard trying to find that time to organize and declutter your home; think of it: you're now dealing with the stuff your children are accumulating! Whether you're a new parent, or even a grandparent, chances are you have more contents in your home than you know what to do with. That's why we are taking our disarray--from the junk drawer to the attic-- straight to organizational expert, Chelsea Wade. She is the owner/founder of "A Good Home" which is a full-service home organization and interior design studio based in...2024-11-1129 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 62: A Mother & Son's Journey From Grief to HealingLoss is something we all will experience in life. However, it is not always something we can predict. So how do we help guide our children through this human experience in a safe and effective way? Best-selling children's author Kellie Kaminskas set out to help families around the world work through this quandary. When she was pregnant with her son, she lost her mother to a long, courageous battle of cancer. But another tragedy would rock this new mom's world 14 months later: the sudden death of her son's father. Kellie--who always had a passion for writing--was motivated to help...2024-11-0430 min $The Author\'s Corner$ The Author's CornerEpisode #170: How to Get a TV Interview with Nicole NalepaSummary:Ever wondered how to get a TV interview? Our latest episode reveals the insider secrets to making it happen!If you’re an author or expert aiming to gain media exposure, this conversation is full of tips and strategies you won’t want to miss. Today’s guest, seasoned news anchor and TV host Nicole Nalepa, shares her unique perspective on what it takes to stand out to anchors and producers.In episode #170 of The Author’s Corner, Nicole Nalepa talks about her journey from morning news anchor to co-host of Great Day at 9A...2024-10-3153 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 61: Maternal Health EquityMaternal health refers to the health of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. Even though important progress has been made in the last two decades in this area, we still have a lot of work to do. The World Health Organization says about 287,000 women died during and following pregnancy and childbirth in 2020. To help us understand the things that need to be done in order to bring these numbers down, Nicole sought out Daileann Hemmings. She is a doctoral prepared perinatal nurse with a focus in the Community/Public Health sector, with over 20 years of...2024-10-2931 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 60: MOMMY PROFILE - Actress Jennifer Beals on RSVAs virus season kicks into high-gear--between colds, the flu, and Covid-19--there's another virus affecting our most-vulnerable populations that you may not think about--and that is RSV (respiratory syncytial virus). In fact, this particular virus sidelined renowned actress and executive producer, Jennifer Beals. After her experience with RSV, she became a spokesperson for GSK this October -- which is RSV Awareness Month. Beals -- known for her iconic role in the film "Flashdance" and the T.V. series, "The L Word" -- shares her story with Nicole. Also joining this conversation is Dr. Leonard Friedland, the Vice President and...2024-10-2110 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 59: The Nurture RevolutionHave you heard someone tell a new mother to 'not hold her baby too much' or to 'time out the baby's feeding sessions', or to let the baby 'cry itself to sleep'? Turns out, there's scientific evidence that has found "spoiling" your baby with affection, attention, and protection actually grows their brain development and transforms their mental health for life! Nicole has a very informative and eye-opening conversation with Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum who is a Neuroscientist, Family Sleep Specialist, Doula and Author. Her book, "The Nurture Revolution" guides parents on how to set their children up for success starting...2024-10-1741 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 58: Who's Your Maggie?This is a first-of-its-kind interview for "Mommyhood Unscripted" and an exciting one at that! "Maggie" the Musical just made its U.S. debut at The Goodspeed Opera House in Connecticut -- where it will run through 10/20/24. Here's Playbill's synopsis: "A Scottish mother’s unbreakable love for her three sons is tested in an inspirational new musical about family bonds and changing times. After suffering the unthinkable loss of her husband, Maggie must rely on her strength, sense of humor and fiercely loyal friends to protect her family from a harsh world. Spanning over 20 years, a hardscrabble working class life bl...2024-10-0930 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 57: Mental Health and Our YouthThere's no question about it: our youth are experiencing a mental health crisis. A February 2024 study by the nonprofit, "Kaiser Family Foundation", found that 1 in 5 adolescents reported symptoms of depression and anxiety. In 2023, researchers at Harvard found that 40% of teens said that they wanted their parents to reach out more and ask how they're really doing. But so many parents and caregivers struggle with how to go about doing that! That's why Nicole is talking with mental health expert, Dr. Charmain F. Jackman. She is a licensed psychologist, author, and TedX speaker, and a regular contributor to the PBS "...2024-09-3029 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 56: MOMMY PROFILE - Country Music Star, Kimberly PerryCountry Music Star mama, Kimberly Perry is known for her role in the Grammy Award-winning group, "The Band Perry" (she wrote their groundbreaking crossover #1 single: "If I Die Young"). Now she is on her first solo headlining tour with CMT -- and she's doing it with a 1-year-old! Kimberly chats with Nicole about what it was like to become a mom for the first time, her birth story, the toddler stage, the everchanging seasons of our lives, and how to align yourself with the things that truly bring you joy. This is a refreshingly candid and relatable conversation between...2024-09-2030 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 55: Moms With ADHDDid you know that adult women are the BIGGEST portion of the population being diagnosed with ADHD? And it's common for a diagnosis to come after having children. Nicole chatted with Dr. Anna Burns who is an Executive Functioning Coach for Women with ADHD about this growing realization. Not only does Dr. Burns breakdown the signs of ADHD in adult women, but she offers up some helpful tips and tools that women can utilize to help make their lives work for their brains! If you're feeling overwhelmed, unfocused, chronically disorganized, burnt out, and never quite finding your balance? Then...2024-09-1633 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 54: Course Correcting How We Handle TraumaTrauma. It shows itself in a variety of ways and it's something we all experience of at one point in life; after all, it's part of the human experience. But new research is showing how trauma in young kids (specifically boys) can actually impact their adult lives when it comes to mental and even physical health. So, what can we as parents and caregivers do to help them process their emotions and regulate their thoughts so they become more emotionally and physically resilient adults? Nicole chats with trauma expert, Dr. Elena Villanueva. She is the founder and Chief Health...2024-09-0929 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 53: Wait Until 8thIs there a "right age" to give our kids a smartphone? That's a question parents everywhere are struggling with or have struggled with at one time. The idea of making your child wait to get a smartphone is difficult to grasp because the last thing we want is for them to feel left out or the target of jokes. But a mom in Austin, Texas started a full-blown movement in response to this predicament parents face. In this episode, Nicole talks with Brooke Shannon about the "Wait Until 8th Pledge" which has made national news and taken our country...2024-08-2628 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 52: From Puppy Love to Understanding Your DogPet dogs are one of the best sources of unconditional love. But sometimes we forget that our four-legged friend is still an animal, and we all need to know how to keep our pet interactions safe and healthy -- especially when involving children. Do you know the signs of healthy vs. stressful interactions? A lot of people think they do, but in actuality they don't -- and that can lead to precarious situations for both you and the animal. So whether you're looking to expand your family by adding a puppy to the mix and wondering how...2024-08-1930 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 51: Welcome to the Preschool YearsThe ups and downs of parenting exist throughout every stage of our child's growth and development. Once you have a toddler on your hands, you almost feel blindsided at times since they're changing so rapidly. Then when it's time for them to head to preschool, there are a whole new set of challenges and dilemmas that you probably thought you wouldn't have to deal with at this young of age. But it will hit you, and the big question at hand is: are you prepared? In this episode, Nicole learns about some strategies to help you get t...2024-08-0529 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 50: How to Protect Our Children From Being Their Next Victim"Child Trafficking" is an unfortunate thing we hear about in the headlines, and the nightmarish thoughts of a child being snatched off the street by foreign nationals come to a lot of minds... But that couldn't be further from the truth! Believe it or not, Child Trafficking is happening right under parents' noses, inside their own HOMES -- and in some cases, inside schools! Believe it or not, our children are now more accessible to people wanting to do them harm -- all thanks to the internet and social media in this post-pandemic world. Nicole sits down w...2024-07-2229 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 49: Hope After LossThis episode is a VERY sensitive topic, and we want to throw a disclaimer out there that we are talking about miscarriages and infant/child loss. However, as difficult as this topic is, it carries a very important message: you don't have to grieve alone. This kind of loss is something many people don't talk about or don't know how to talk about. But the mission of the organization, "Hope After Loss" is all about providing connections, comfort and care to families who have experienced such a loss. Executive Director of "Hope After Loss", Christina Mailhos, and Board Member...2024-07-1527 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 48: A Coming Out ConversationThis episode is all about a dynamic mother-daughter duo who are helping LGBTQ+ youth feel less alone. Robin Colucci has been a huge support for her daughter, Maya Hoffman during her coming out journey. The pair offer guidance on navigating the coming out process from both the perspectives of a parent and a child. Nicole sits down with Robin and Maya to hear about their story and ask those questions you may be hesitant to ask... They cover everything from topics of self-discovery and acceptance, to gender pronouns, LGBTQ+ literacy and advocacy work. -----------------------------------SHOW NO...2024-06-3034 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 47: Adopting Another Pathway to ParenthoodWhen a couple wants to start a family, it can be anything but easy. Unexpected struggles with infertility and even pushing off the timeline of having children can bring heartbreak. Adoptions can be a great pathway to parenthood. But what does it look like? How does it all work? How do you overcome the mental hurdles associated with the process? Adoption expert, Nicole Witt, informs and debunks the myths surrounding the experience of adoption which prevent people from seriously considering this journey. She gives out some sage advice when it comes to adoption, the process, and what f...2024-06-1732 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 46: Navigating Food Allergies and Food IntolerancesParents innately worry about their children all the time -- no matter how old they are. So when your child is diagnosed with a food allergy or food intolerance, it only compounds things. Anxiety and fear can take over--especially when your child is out of your sight--as you wonder whether they could come into contact or accidentally eat something that contains an allergen. How do you quell those concerns and let your child live as "normal" a life as possible? Nicole sat down with Anna Laurie who has more experience than you can imagine with this topic! Al...2024-06-0327 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 45: How to Break Your Phone AddictionRemember a time before cell phones -- as in when they were only used to make emergency calls? Now these devices hold the key to our entire lives! Not only are they a main form of communication, but they're our main source for information (from your bank account to your news) and even entertainment. You name it, our phone can do it. But convenience can come at a cost... A 2023 survey by reviews.org found that more than half of Americans say they're ADDICTED to their phones! As our lives continue to transition to phone apps, it's e...2024-05-2828 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 44: Mindful and Magical Parenting TipsIn this episode, Nicole is exploring the importance of mindfulness for kids. It’s such a great skill for kids to learn – especially if they’re feeling anxious, sad, angry… It can also help our kids face daily challenges. Just that extra minute to re-center ourselves can help them observe their thoughts and feelings rather than reacting immediately. Also, it teaches our children how to stay present in a society where we are constantly fretting over the future and perseverating over the past. Nicole sits down with Rachel Kaczynski -- a mom, a writer, a certified health coach, and...2024-05-2020 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 43: How to Survive and Thrive During Perimenopause and MenopauseInstead of a breaking news flash, we're bringing you all the details on the formidable 'hot flash'! Have you ever wondered why so many women are surprised by perimenopause and menopause? It's because most don't even know what it entails, and how it can affect our bodies; so they're left to just suffer whatever comes their way. But it doesn't have to be that way! Nicole sits down with women's health expert, Kristen Reed. She is a board-certified registered nurse and health and wellness coach, and the Founder and CEO of "Nursing Your Way to Wellness". Kristen reveals some...2024-05-1329 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 42: Finding Harmony Through FitnessDo you struggle with exercise, or finding the time to get your body moving? The lack of motivation we hold after having kids tends to take over and things we may have once done for ourselves in the form of self-care are put on the backburner. But there is a way back to prioritizing guilt-free well-being and feeling great in your body through a special mind and body connection. Nicole sat down with fitness pioneer, Dana Brown to learn more about this and the steps you can take to feel stronger both physically and mentally. Dana gained her expertise...2024-05-0631 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 41: Your Child Has Just Been Diagnosed With Autism...Now What?Autism can be reliably diagnosed by a specialist by age 2, but the average age of an autism diagnosis in the U.S. is 5 years-old. Regardless of how old your child is when diagnosed, the time following that diagnosis can be extremely overwhelming and parents have a lot of questions and concerns. What happens next? What can you expect? What questions should you be asking your providers and the schools? What kinds of therapy or services are out there for your children? What kind of support is out there for you? These are all questions Nicole is getting an...2024-04-2926 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 40: Ticked Off Over TicksHave you ever seen a tick on your child or fur baby and proceeded to freak out? Did you question whether you effectively removed the tick properly? Do you even know the most effective way to check your child for ticks, or the high-risk zones in your backyard? The answers may surprise you! Tick expert and fellow mom, Dr. Megan Linske is helping all of us parents learn how we can safely live with ticks -- because unfortunately, they aren't going away. She's a scientist at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station and specializes in monitoring tick abundances, t...2024-04-2229 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 39: To Use Melatonin or Not Use Melatonin -- That Is the Question.Parents and kids have always had issues with sleep, and for years, plenty of caregivers have been leaning on melatonin as a way to help kids get their rest. But is it safe? We all know melatonin is natural -- after all, our body produces it! But are there any risks in giving it to our children? World-renowned pediatrician, Dr. Harvey Karp returns to 'Mommyhood Unscripted' to offer up his expert advice with Nicole on this hotbed topic. Dr. Karp has been dedicated to promoting healthy sleeping habits for all -- including infants, toddlers, and big kids al...2024-04-1614 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 38: The '411' on 529 PlansHave you started saving for your child's college education yet -- or are you overwhelmed with where and how to start? Well, you are NOT alone. You may have heard about '529 plans'... Is it the right path to take? Are there some things you can do to maximize savings for your child? Do taxes come into play? Nicole gets all the information and answers you need on this topic with Mark Kantrowitz. He's one of the national experts on college savings, education tax benefits, student financial aid, scholarships, and student loans. (Mark has even testified before Congress and...2024-04-0828 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 37: No More Number 2 Pencils!Have you heard? The SATs have gone digital! This is BIG news -- especially considering how the SAT plays such an instrumental role when it comes to the college admissions process. So, what do you and your kids need to know about this change? What can your student expect? How do they prepare? And why is it important to take the SATs? Nicole helps you answer all those questions with Priscilla Rodriguez, the Senior Vice President of College Readiness Assessments at The College Board. ----------------------------------------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa | @NicoleNalepaTV 2024-04-0129 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 36: MOMMY PROFILE - Stefania MunziIn this month's 'Mommy Profile', Nicole chats with children's book author and illustrator, Stefania Munzi. This Connecticut artist is a mom of two boys--one of whom is special needs. Stefania takes us through her journey of what it's like to receive an unexpected diagnosis about your child, how she was able to utilize her talents to raise awareness about her son's rare condition, and what it's like navigating life as a single parent to her two boys. ----------------------------------------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa | @NicoleNalepaTVGuest: Stefania Munzi 2024-03-2030 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 35: How to Practice Mindfulness With MoneyDid you know that practicing mindfulness can actually help you when it comes to money? It's true! And not only can it help you in the present and future, but it can also help your children by extension. Financial Advisor and author, Sylvia Guinan is back chatting with Nicole about what we can do to tune into ourselves and what we truly want when it comes to finances and how to teach our children to also be mindful about the dollar. ----------------------------------------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa | @NicoleNalepaTVGuest: Sylvia Guinan 2024-03-2024 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 34: Room for Mommy InfluencersWhat does it take to become a 'mom influencer' and a successful one? Nicole chats with four well-known mom influencers who you may recognize: Kallie Branciforte of "But First, Coffee!", Charlotte Smith of "At Charlotte's House", Megan Schinella of "CampbyMama" and Caitlin Houston who's behind the self-titled, "Caitlin Houston Blog". Not only do they chat about how they got to where they are, but you learn how these four moms from Connecticut became friends and came together to create a new podcast called, "Room 4 Four". This is one of those episodes in which you're going to walk away feeling...2024-03-0433 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 33: MOMMY PROFILE - Dr. Emily ThomasEvery so often Nicole will be profiling a mom and journey through her unique story in an episode. Our first "Mommy Profile" is: Dr. Emily Thomas of Consumer Reports. This mom of two boys is all about helping other moms keep their babies safe. Dr. Thomas, who manages the Auto Safety at Consumer Report's Auto Test Center, leads the occupant protection and vulnerable road user safety programs -- which includes the child car seat program. She also leads the rear-seat safety evaluations for all of Consumer Reports’ new test vehicles, and is instrumental in assessing how well each car-seat mo...2024-02-2649 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 32: How the Heck Do I Get My Child to Sleep?Have you ever heard of a sleep consultant or wondered what it is they do? These days, it's much more than the 'cry it out' method that your pediatrician or your grandmother may recommend... It's a much more tailored approach and focuses on the individual child. Nicole sits down with Heather Cartier -- a pediatric sleep consultant who provides virtual sleep support across the country to families with infants, toddlers and big kids who struggle with sleep challenges. She breaks down common misconceptions, common sleep regressions ages, sleep recommendations and her "million-dollar advice" piece of advice when it comes...2024-02-1930 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 31: One Mom's Beautiful MissionGrief can look different for everyone and take on many different forms. Most people don’t even know how to begin the healing journey – especially after the loss of a child. Nicole sat down with Jenny Hubbard who lost her 6-year-old daughter Catherine at Sandy Hook Elementary School on December 14, 2012. Catherine was a kind and compassionate animal lover who dreamt of someday working with and caring for animals. To honor her daughter’s memory and pay tribute to Catherine’s spirit of kindness towards all living things, Jenny created the Catherine Violet Hubbard Animal Sanctuary. This non-profit organization promotes compassi...2024-02-1259 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 30: Postpartum Recovery 101Having a baby is NO JOKE. Did you know it takes a full year for a woman to recover from childbirth? Also, 85% of women experience baby blues due to immediate postpartum hormone shifts. Sadly, postpartum recovery is one of the most CHALLENGING phases in a woman's life -- yet there is still SO much we don't talk about or even know about when it comes to this stage. That's why Nicole is sitting down with Dr. Katrina Furey to help shed a light on what you may or may not know about postpartum. Dr. Furey is a b...2024-02-0526 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 29: Finding Your Financial FootingIn many 'traditional' households, women have financially relied on men when it comes to their future. But if you go through a major life transition such as: a divorce, a career change, retirement or even widowhood -- your financial confidence can strain. So how prepared are you? How much do you understand when it comes to your financial security and your future? That's where Sylvia Guinan comes in. She is a Financial Advisor, a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, the author of "The Richness of Divorce: 7 Steps to unwind your Marriage with Love and Grace", and a mother of three...2023-12-2342 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 28: How To Identify Positive Screen TimeParents, this is a MUST-HAVE conversation that involves facing, embracing, and setting limitations on that which we cannot escape: screens. Dr. Jodi Gold comes to the rescue to set the record straight on what we need to know and how we can move forward (guilt-free) -- whether you're a new parent or a grandparent! You'll find out where the negative impacts of excessive childhood screen time come from, what you should be on the lookout for when trying to identify positive screen time for your child (based on their age and interests), and much more! Dr. Gold i...2023-12-1840 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 27: Emotional Hacks for the HolidaysThe holidays are a time of year when children have LOTS of expectations -- between presents and parties, to what kind of reactions you're going to have at family gatherings. Emotions tend to run high at this time too, and as parents, we carry a lot of STRESS to manage those expectations! In this quick and easy listen, Nicole spoke to clinical psychologist Dr. Laura Saunders of the Institute of Living at Hartford Healthcare about some things we can do to improve how we communicate with our kids during this time -- so they're not left disappointed, and we...2023-12-0419 min

Analyze ScriptsEpisode 47 - "The Morning Show" Season 3 w/ Nicole NalepaWelcome back to Analyze Scripts, where a psychiatrist and a therapist analyze what Hollywood gets right and wrong about mental health. Today, we are joined by WFSB morning show anchor, Nicole Nalepa, to discuss season 3 of "The Morning Show." In this season we see a different Alex Levy and discuss if people with narcissism can change. We get to see Cory's mom which gives us such great information for answering the age old question of nature versus nurture. Bradley and her brother continue to give us strong family dynamics to discuss and we finish up with the impact of...2023-11-2757 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 26: The Best Way to Pay for CollegeOnce you become a parent, it seems that you're already thinking about college -- and wondering how you're going to pay for it! Let's be real...the last thing we want is for our kids to shoulder a massive amount of debt just so they can continue their education. Sadly, it's a reality that most students in this country face. But did you know that there are so many resources out there that can help you and your child AFFORD their Higher Education? Nicole has a helpful discussion with Jennifer Finetti who is the Director of Student Advocacy at...2023-11-2028 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 25: How to Avoid Burnout and Reclaim Your Mental HealthBalance. It's a word parents use lightly because most days it seems nearly impossible to achieve. But is it possible? Is there a way we can create a work/life balance that ACTUALLY works? In this episode, Nicole talks to Natasha Bowman -- a workplace culture expert, Ted-X speaker, and author. Their conversation focuses on how you can go from being burned out, unmotivated and unhappy to reclaiming your mental health at work (just like the title of Natasha's book)! ----------------------------------------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa | @NicoleNalepaTV 2023-11-0631 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 24: Parenting With a Little Help From the StarsHave you ever thought about how the day, time, and location of your birth could actually play into your personality? These are known as 'birth charts'. It sounds like a 'new-age' concept, but in actuality it's an ancient resource our ancestors used to help guide them through life. On this episode, Nicole chats with Jessica Holcomb who is a broker, an entrepreneur -- and she's also an astrologer! Jessica walks us through how we can best nurture our children based upon their birth charts, and even runs through all the signs for us in great detail! This information will...2023-10-2344 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 23: It All Starts With HopeOne of the main drivers of things like depression, suicide, oppression and violence is: hopelessness. But it's not something we're born with; believe it or not, we are taught how to be hopeless. Perhaps the scariest part of this all is the fact that our children are learning this every day -- whether it be through social media or societal influence. A recent report by the CDC found that 57% of teen girls are persistently hopeless, and 30% are suicidal or experiencing suicidal ideations. So, how do we change this? Nicole sat down with the Founder and Chairman of "T...2023-10-1033 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 22: Why Your Life Is Just Beginning When Your Kids Grow UpHave you ever though about what life will look like as an empty nester when your kids fly the coup? Are there any dreams you had before you became a mom, but you placed them on the back burner? Well, I have news for you: your life does not END when your kids grow up. In fact, your life actually BEGINS! This episode is going to help moms of ALL AGES learn how to reclaim their lives and ignite their passions in the "second half" of their lives. Nicole has a heart-to-heart chat with Cheryl Polote Williamson...2023-09-2540 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP: 21 Mastering Back-To-School TransitionsAs you may know, there are a LOT of emotions tied to the transition of heading back-to-school -- especially after coming off of summer break. Families can also feel emotionally overwhelmed as children head to school for the first time. Dr. Harvey Karp is back on 'Mommyhood Unscripted' offering up some extremely helpful tips for parents of ALL ages as they work on easing into a new routine ahead of a new school year.Dr. Karp is a world-renowned pediatrician and child development expert, best-selling author, and the creator of the SNOO – a smart baby bassinet which wa...2023-08-2115 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 20: A Childless ConversationDo you have friends or loved ones who are of the child-bearing years, but do not have any children? Have you ever had a conversation with them about that in an informed and balanced way? Have you felt a bit disconnected from your childless friends once you started having kids? Or have you ever considered the feelings of those who do not want children? I’m this episode, Nicole has a very candid conversation with her friend, Katie LaCelle who is a former corporate executive now-turned business and personal coach—and chose to not have kids. Together, these women explo...2023-08-0744 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 19: 'Big Time Adulting' With Caitlin MurrayHow often do you scroll through your phone and come across those posts that just speak to you -- especially the ones that hold so much comic relief and truth at the same time? Chances are you have seen Caitlin Murray in one of those favorite reels you've shared with your mom friends... This mom of 3's Instagram account--@bigtimeadulting--went viral one day and has only continued to gain popularity, even catching the attention of celebrity moms. Her spontaneous dance reels, pep talks and stories not only bring some levity, but they resonate with fellow parents who are all...2023-07-2429 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 18: The "Missed Disease"More and more females are being diagnosed with endometriosis, a disease which affects roughly 10% of reproductive age women and girls globally. It's often known as the "missed disease" due to its unknown cause and inconsistent diagnosis and management. Endometriosis can be extremely painful -- even leading to infertility -- which is why it's more important than ever that women are educated about this disease.In this episode, Nicole chats with endometriosis patient, advocate, and award-winning public speaker Meghan Rothschild about her story. She offers up some powerful advice on what women may not know about it, and...2023-07-1022 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 17: All Things AutismDid you know that since 2000, autism prevalence has gone up by over 400%? Today, 1 out of every 36 U.S. kids is diagnosed with autism. Autism is found four times MORE often in boys than in girls -- with 1 out of every 23 boys diagnosed with it. But Nicole chats with one of the leading pioneers in the world of autism diagnosis and treatment -- Dr. Doreen Granpeesheh. She sheds some light on this alarming increase in diagnoses and also gives some great advice on how parents can support their children (from babies up to adults) and find that support within their o...2023-06-1236 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 16: Happiest Parent on the BlockDo you struggle with calming your crying baby down? Or what about those dreaded toddler tantrums? This episode is a quick and easy listen with all the answers you need to diffuse an otherwise emotional situation with your little one. Nicole chats with Dr. Harvey Karp who's known as the "baby whisperer"! He's an American Pediatrician, an author, a child development specialist, and creator of the SNOO--a smart sleeper. He's also one of America's most-read pediatricians! He's best known for his book, "The Happiest Baby on the Block" in which he detailed "the 5 S's"--a very popular technique he...2023-05-1512 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 15: Could Your Child Be an Empath?Are your children exceptionally sensitive to the feelings of individuals nearby? Do they seem to read others' emotions well -- to the point of becoming overwhelmed? It's possible they could be an empath. Nicole chats with medium, intuitive healer and empath, Heather Sprigg. She explains what an empath is, the signs that your child could be an empath, how to parent an empath, and ways you can help them protect themselves. -----------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa | @NicoleNalepaTVGuest: Heather Sprigghttps://www.angelhealer111.com/2023-05-0136 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 14: Tired of Being TiredNothing can prepare parents for the lack of sleep they will experience -- from the time their children are born until they are out on their own (and even then a lot of parents say they still don't sleep well). Sleep deprivation is unavoidable at times, but there are some things you can do to improve your quality of shuteye. Sleep expert Dr. Pedram Navab chats with Nicole about some sleep tips and tricks, and also explains why 'daylight saving' time is especially difficult on families. -----------------------------------SHOW NOTES:H...2023-04-1735 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 13: How Your Job Impacts Your KidsThere are two sides to every story, and this topic is no exception. The title of this episode is not meant to scare you, or make you feel guilty (parents have enough guilt)! But let's get real -- work is inevitable and it's something most of us have to do in order to survive and provide. Many parents spend hours upon hours at their jobs each week, so how does that come into play in the arena of parenting and your children's development? Nicole is trying to understand when (and under what conditions) can your job actually be a...2023-03-2733 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 12: A "Legendairy" ConversationThis episode is dedicated to breastfeeding and all the emotions, challenges and misconceptions that are tied to it. Nicole does a deep dive into some of the most-common questions, concerns, and fun (and funny) facts--you've probably never even heard of--with lactation consultant Lori Atkins of "Oh, Baby! Lactation". Lori has a lighthearted and comical way of delivering her "legendairy" info. So, whether you're interested in breastfeeding, you've done it, you've tried it, or it's not for you -- this is an episode you're going to want to hear!-----------------------------------SHOW NOTES:2023-03-1551 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 11: What's 'Fair Play'?Are you feeling overwhelmed as you try to balance your home life, your work life, life as a parent and life with your partner? There's a new time-and anxiety-saving system for parents who are feeling very unbalanced in their duties at home. Catherine Bailey of "Think or Blue" is back on "Mommyhood Unscripted" to talk about the "Fair Play" method with Nicole. She has some helpful tips that will help you rebalance your life and reclaim your time for self-care, friendships and creative fulfillment.-----------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa...2023-02-2035 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 10: The Journey Back to YourselfSelf-care. Two small words that carry so much weight. It's something that seems to dissipate the moment you become a parent. So, how do we attain it and reclaim it without feeling the guilt or the stress? Nicole chats with therapist, Sarah Baroud of "Practice Makes Present" who gives us all some positive insight into how one can start their new self-care journey. ----------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa | @NicoleNalepaTVGuest: Sarah Baroud, LICSW www.sarahbaroudlicsw.com Instagram: @practicemakespresent 2023-02-1338 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 9: When Your Kid Asks For a Cell PhoneHas your child been badgering you for a cell phone? Or have you been considering getting one for them as they become more independent outside of the house? It’s a hot topic many parents seem unsure about — especially when it comes to what age is best and how to regulate screen time. Nicole chats with CNET’s Dan Ackerman, who also serves as CBS Mornings’ resident tech expert. He provides some great insight into what the “going age” is right now, some affordable options in terms of devices on the market, and what you can do to protect yo...2022-08-1514 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 8: Invisible Scars: The Emotional Impact of C-SectionsEveryone knows c-sections leave a physical scar, but have you heard about the emotional scars they can also leave behind? Nicole caught up with Kristen Kjerulff, Ph.D., a professor of public health sciences and obstetrics and gynecology at Penn State College of Medicine, who has been researching this topic in depth. She breaks down her findings, which include why a significant number of moms who undergo a c-section feel shame and disappointment. Dr. Kjerulff also shares some other information involving the impact c-sections can have on fertility and libido. ----------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host...2022-08-0931 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 7: Parenting Outside of Gender StereotypesGender bias is everywhere, including in our parenting--and chances are you don't even realize it! So, how does a world of gender stereotypes impact children over time? In this eye-opening episode, Nicole chats with lawyer and gender equity expert, Catherine Bailey. She founded "Think or Blue", which is comprised of a community of parents, teachers, and family who strive to raise and educate children free from gender stereotypes. Catherine walks us through some of the common yet hidden gender biases that have snuck their way into our daily lives. She also provides parents with some simple tips, so they...2022-08-0238 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 6: From Partners to Parents and BackLet's face it: once children come into the picture, relationships change -- including your relationship with your partner. Now that you're responsible for another life (or lives), you and your partner have to take a backseat. But just because you’re parents doesn't mean you should throw in the towel when it comes to working on your relationship. Dr. Patty Ann Tublin has an honest talk with Nicole about the best ways to balance parenthood and "couplehood", how to foster your relationship, the red flags you should be on the lookout for and how to stay true to yourself.2022-07-2634 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 5: Mother’s IntuitionHave you ever had the gut feeling something wasn’t right, but couldn’t explain why? Or have you known something with absolute certainty, but couldn't tell someone how? That’s your intuition talking -- and one of the most powerful intuitions of all is believed to be mother’s intuition. In this episode, Nicole talks with Jen Weigel who is an award-winning broadcast journalist and author of four books, including: "Stay Tuned" and "I'm Spiritual, Dammit!". They share some unexplainable accounts from their own lives, and Jen shares some tools to help you trust your instinct....2022-07-1834 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 4: Picky EatersWith 2 MILLION followers on her Instagram account, "Kids Eat in Color", Jennifer Anderson is a fan favorite amongst parents on social media. The pediatric dietician founded her public health company out of frustration over her own child's picky eating habits -- which makes us love her even more for her honesty and relatable content. In this episode, Nicole Nalepa picks this guru's brain and addresses all of your concerns regarding how to get your kids to eat better. Enjoy (and here's to hoping your child won't ask for mac and cheese every night for dinner)! ---------------------------------------------...2022-07-1136 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 3: Food Hacks for Busy ParentsOnce upon a time, it was much easier to feed ourselves sans kids. But the struggle is REAL when it comes to food now that you're a parent. You may find yourself pressed for time, skipping meals, reaching for something fast and convenient, or maybe you absolutely loathe cooking. Thankfully, Nicole Nalepa is chatting with certified nutritionist and mom, Kara Pachniuk. She is going to "set the table" for us with some helpful tips and tricks, which we can all eat up!---------------------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa | @NicoleNalepaTVGuest: Kara Pachniuk MS, CNS 2022-07-0447 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 2: Potty TalkPart of life is learning how to handle crap and teaching your child to do the same – in the form of flushing it down the toilet. Nicole Nalepa is talking to internationally renowned potty-training expert and author of the books, “Oh Crap! Potty Training” and “Oh Crap! I Have a Toddler”, Jamie Glowacki.---------------------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa | @NicoleNalepaTVGuest: Jamie Glowackihttps://www.jamieglowacki.com/You can also follow Jamie on Instagram: @jamie.glowacki 2022-06-2735 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedEP 1: The Elephant in the Room...Regardless of your opinions over what we've endured during the pandemic, one thing we can all agree on is the fact that it has had a profound impact on parents. Nicole Nalepa chats with award-winning journalist Katherine Goldstein who specializes on social and economic issues facing moms. She’ll focus on the fallout mothers have been facing both at-home and at the workplace, explore the real challenges, discuss who's hurting the most -- and how we can help each other out.---------------------------------------------SHOW NOTES:Host: Nicole Nalepa | @NicoleNalepaTVGuest: Katherine Goldstein Katherine now...2022-06-2026 min

Mommyhood UnscriptedTRAILERMotherhood is magnificent, messy -- and unfortunately doesn't come with a script to follow. Join TV News Anchor, Nicole Nalepa as she takes you along for the ride! She created this safe space for women of all ages back in 2020. Now she's taking her conversations to the podcast world -- covering some of the biggest topics and least discussed issues surrounding motherhood.2022-04-2202 min $Step Connections\' Podcast$ Step Connections' PodcastNicole Nalepa<img src="https://assets.podomatic.net/ts/53/35/90/gbikakis/3000x3000_12846739.jpg" alt="itunes pic" /><br />Today, we had the honor of interviewing Nicole Nalepa. Mrs. Nalepa is a News Reporter for Channel 3 Eyewitness News. It was a very interesting interview, and we hope you enjoy!2018-06-1137 min