Episode 36 - Jenna Gorman - Stirring Up Joy: Cooking, Connection & Finding Yourself Beyond Motherhood

SUMMARY:

In this episode of Mommasota, host Monica Eickman welcomes Jenna Gorman, a mom and food blogger, to discuss the beautiful mess of motherhood and the importance of cooking with kids. They explore the challenges of finding identity beyond motherhood, the joy of family meals, and the valuable life skills that can be taught through cooking. Jenna shares her journey from a food chemist to a stay-at-home mom and how she uses her blog to inspire other parents. The conversation emphasizes the significance of involving children in the kitchen, teaching them essential skills, and creating lasting memories through cooking together. In this engaging conversation, the speakers explore the themes of healthy cooking, family bonding, philanthropy, and the challenges of parenting. They discuss how cooking has become a fun and bonding experience for families, the importance of giving back to the community, and how to navigate tough conversations with children. The discussion also touches on finding balance in busy family life and launching new ventures, such as a blog dedicated to cocktails and mocktails.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Parenting can feel like an uphill battle, but it's a beautiful mess.
• Cooking with kids is a way to connect and teach valuable life skills.
• It's common for moms to experience an identity crisis after their kids start school.
• Involving kids in the kitchen helps them learn math, reading, and patience.
• Setting low expectations can make cooking with kids more enjoyable.
• Cooking can be a way to break gender stereotypes in the kitchen.
• Family meals are an opportunity to bond and create memories.
• Mistakes in the kitchen are learning opportunities for both kids and parents.
• Recipes can evolve to meet the changing needs of growing children.
• It's important for kids to see their parents pursuing their passions. Healthy cooking can be a fun family activity.
• Encouraging kids to try new foods fosters a love for cooking.
• Giving back to the community can be a family affair.
• Teaching kids about privilege helps them develop empathy.
• Involving children in philanthropy empowers them to care for others.
• Navigating tough conversations with kids is essential for their understanding.
• Finding balance in family life requires prioritization and flexibility.
• It's okay to say no and ask for help when needed.
• Creating new ventures can be fulfilling, even amidst a busy schedule.
• Taking breaks is important for mental health and family dynamics.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Welcome to Mommasota: Embracing the Chaos of Motherhood

01:27 Introducing Jenna Gorman: A Culinary Journey in Motherhood

03:46 Finding Identity Beyond Motherhood: The Transition

07:15 The Impact of Cooking: Connecting with Kids

10:30 Teaching Life Skills Through Cooking: A Hands-On Approach

19:05 The Importance of Reading and Math in the Kitchen

23:05 Evolving Recipes: Adapting to Growing Kids' Needs

24:32 Healthy Cooking and Family Bonding

27:39 Giving Back: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

30:38 Empowering Kids Through Philanthropy

36:51 Navigating Tough Conversations with Kids

41:13 Finding Balance in a Busy Family Life

44:50 Launching New Ventures: Cocktails and Mocktails

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