Suburban Burnout

After years of infertility, Starlyn and Bill Cafferata (@caffsquad) finally saw two pink lines, except this time, there were four heartbeats. What followed was a wild ride through high-risk pregnancy, as specialist after specialist delivered conflicting information, survival odds, and gut-wrenching decisions. Somehow, Starlyn carried all four babies, Lennon, Enzo, Francesca, and Stella, through the chaos, uncertainty, and exhaustio...

Forget surface-level advice and toxic positivity Megan and Laura dive headfirst into the emotional and psychological labor of modern life. From parenting and relationships to political tension and personal healing, this show unpacks the why behind our behaviors and offers practical strategies for growth, grounded in both clinical insight and real-life experience.

With raw conversations and expert-informed dialogue, guest Kelsey Bla...

In this milestone episode, Amanda Nelson (@exploringamanda) gets real about what it takes to build a business, grow a family, and stay grounded through it all. From living on food stamps to launching a wellness brand, Amanda shares her journey of entrepreneurship, motherhood, and personal growth. She explains how she navigates all areas of life day by day. That is when you can truly choose the "balance" needed for you and your fami...

This week on Suburban Burnout, Megan and Laura reflect on Mother’s Day and how it often brings more insight than rest. From hilarious cat chaos to complex parenting dynamics, they share personal stories and insight on the emotional labor of motherhood and the importance of trusting your gut.

They dive into the everyday moments that demand courage: advocating for your kids at school or on the field, speaking up at the doctor’s offic...

Raising teenage girls isn’t for the faint of heart, and no, it’s not just the hormones. In this episode, Megan and Laura unpack the tangled web of adolescence with raw honesty, humor, and insights drawn from Lisa Damour’s Untangled. From eye rolls to emotional outbursts, they dive into the shifting dynamics of privacy, independence, and friendships (yes, including the dreaded frenemies).

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Tired of stepping over toys, wrestling with Tupperware lids, or emotionally spiraling over that box of baby clothes in the attic? Same. In this episode, Megan and Laura share exactly how to spring clean and organize without the meltdown, yours or your kids’.

Find our guide to working through sentimental items or even your childhood home, Join our newsletter to receive this PDF for a step-by-step guide. www.suburbanburnout.com

You’l...

In this episode, Megan and Laura unpack the rising anxiety so many parents are feeling right now, but don’t worry, we’re not here to add to the noise. We’re here to help lighten the load.

From the invisible mental strain of parenting to financial stress and the endless digital overwhelm, we get honest about what’s really weighing us down. We share our own stories, validate the daily chaos you might be navigating, and offer some de...

In this empowering episode of Suburban Burnout, we sit down with Leslie Oduwole—a two-time Collegiate All-American athlete turned educator and Assistant Principal at Pflugerville ISD. Leslie shares her personal journey from the tennis courts to school administration and dives deep into the realities of today’s public education system.

We discuss how parents can effectively support their children, whether they’re navigating academic...

In this eye-opening episode, we’re joined by Cally Conklin, Statewide Education Specialist and lawyer with Crime Stoppers of Houston. Cally breaks down the real dangers kids are facing today, from cyberbullying and sextortion to the rising addiction to vaping. We talk about the difference between peer conflict and bullying, the impact of David’s Law, and how parents can start tough but necessary conversations about online safety, s...

Raising hardworking kids isn’t just about chores and grades, it starts with the example you set. Megan and Laura break down five key parenting strategies to foster a strong work ethic while avoiding burnout. From modeling healthy habits to balancing grit with rest, this episode explores how your approach to work shapes your child’s mindset, resilience, and future success. Tune in for real talk on parenting, boundaries, and raising ...

Quick makeup and skincare tips for a refreshed look—and the bold decision to walk away from a successful life chapter in pursuit of creativity, balance, motherhood, and meaning.

Ever feel overwhelmed by the endless beauty trends and skin products promising miracles? This episode will flip the script on everything you thought you knew about skincare, makeup, and aging. Stephanie Garcia-Malcom, a celebrity and fashion makeup artist w...

In this one of two conversations with Nurse Mercy co-founder of Connect Mobile Health, we delve into the world of peptides, discussing their benefits, the importance of proper medical supervision, and the individualization of treatment. They explore the role of peptides in muscle building, the significance of protein intake, and the impact of gut health on overall wellness. The discussion also touches on the importance of tracking ...

UPDATE: Listen at the end for a Varsity NCA update presented after the initial episode was recorded (added 3/11/2025)

In this episode of Suburban Burnout, Laura and Megan discuss the chaos that unfolded during the NCAA National Cheerleading Association's national competition in Dallas, where an active scare led to mass panic. They explore the events leading up to the incident, the reactions from parents and attendees, and the subse...

In this insightful episode of the Suburban Burnout podcast, hosts Laura and Megan draw inspiration from Dr. Cara Natterson's book, Decoding Boys: New Science Behind the Subtle Art of Raising Sons, to explore the multifaceted journey of parenting boys through adolescence. They delve into the unique challenges mothers face during their sons' tween and teen years, emphasizing the critical role of open communication in fostering trust ...

In this conversation, Nurse Mercy shares her journey from a traditional nursing role to founding Connect Mobile Health, highlighting the challenges faced in the healthcare system, especially during the pandemic. She discusses the importance of preventative care, insights gained from home visits with mothers, and practical health protocols. The conversation also delves into the benefits of NAD treatments and the differences between ...

In this episode, Laura sits down with Katie LaFranchi, a seasoned People Operations leader with 20 years of experience, to dive into the realities of corporate motherhood. As a fractional CHRO and Partner at Ampleo, Katie brings her expertise in workplace culture, leadership dynamics, and career advocacy to the conversation. Together, they explore how women can ask for and receive what they deserve—from salary negotiations to workp...

Co-Founder of MomBrain, Jaime Oliver shares her journey of juggling multiple roles as a mother, professional, and entrepreneur. She discusses the inspiration behind creating MomBrain, a supportive community for mothers to connect and share experiences anonymously. The conversation delves into the challenges of launching the platform, the importance of community engagement, and the unique features that set MomBrain apart, including ...

We wanted to bring one of our favorite episodes back for all those who may be new here. We dive deep into the world of relationships, love, and intimacy with a very special guest, Dr. Bianca Mickan. Definitely listen until the VERY END because she provides exercises, apps and books that you are going to want to implement in your life. 

Dr. Mickan, a seasoned expert in the field of couples' therapy, joins us to share her fascinating...

In this episode of Suburban Burnout, Laura and Megan delve into Mel Robbins' book, Let Them, discussing the core concept of the Let Them Theory, which emphasizes the importance of letting go of things beyond our control while taking responsibility for our reactions. They explore practical applications of this theory in everyday situations, relationships, and parenting, highlighting the significance of emotional intelligence and acc...