

Mother Up
Gianna DeMedio Simon and Kacie McDonnell Hosmer
We’re Kacie and Gianna: gal pals, champagne lovers, and two moms who think motherhood is the most rewarding job we’ve ever had. But, man, were we not prepared for some of the fine print in the job description. Specifically, balancing being a mom and being YOU. It seems society only allows women to be sexy OR covered in spit-up. But WE want to be both. We want a connection with our children and partner that doesn’t come at the cost of the relationship with our own selves. We want to feel confident, beautiful, strong, vulnerable, nurturing, and bold.
The connections we’ve made through our careers in media and our propensity to being social butterflies and collecting friends wherever we go means we’ll bring you a wide range of guests that will add value to your physical, mental, and emotional toolbox.
We’re so glad you’re here. Now let’s Mother Up!
The connections we’ve made through our careers in media and our propensity to being social butterflies and collecting friends wherever we go means we’ll bring you a wide range of guests that will add value to your physical, mental, and emotional toolbox.
We’re so glad you’re here. Now let’s Mother Up!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 14, 2024 • 46min
Bridging the Confidence Gap: Mentorship Hacks for Empowerment
This week on Mother Up, we’re unlocking the secret to boosting confidence through mentorship with the incredible Illana Raia, CEO of Être. Illana shares how the right mentors can bridge the “confidence gap,” especially for girls navigating life’s challenges.
We also get real about Illana’s journey, from her high-powered career as a lawyer to the unexpected twists of motherhood. Transitioning between these two worlds wasn't easy, and finding the right support system made all the difference.
Illana breaks down how mentors can provide crucial exposure and feedback that fosters self-belief and why confidence is directly linked to having role models. If you’re ready to learn how mentorship can transform self-esteem for you or the next generation, this episode is for you!
Topics discussed include:
Battling impostor syndrome in different stages of life
Illana’s real talk on balancing career and motherhood
How mentors can bridge the “confidence gap”
The state of confidence among girls today
The importance of exposure and feedback for building confidence
Why mentorship is a game-changer for long-term success
Connect with Illana:
Être Website
Illana Raia’s Website
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Oct 7, 2024 • 1h 23min
Processing and Healing Trauma: Supporting Ourselves and Our Kids in Uncovering our Past with Dr. Kirby Wycoff
Dr. Kirby L. Wycoff, a leading expert in child trauma and mental health, is here to help you navigate tough conversations with your kids. Join us for a candid discussion where she'll share practical tips and strategies to support your child's emotional well-being.
As a mom herself (to a baby girl), Dr. Wycoff brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to our discussion. Let's explore together how to support our kids during times of crisis and help them build resilience.
Topics discussed include:
Trauma as it relates to us and our children
Practices to help process trauma for ourselves and model positive behavior for little ones
The uniqueness of trauma and how it affects everyone differently
How proximity and media play roles in how we experience trauma
Dandelion vs orchid kids
Building and supporting emotional regulation and emotional agility in children
Intergenerational trauma
Communicating with children when it comes to collective traumatic events
Resources:
Support for Parents and Carers - The Barking Dog vs the Wise Old Owl
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
HUNT, GATHER, PARENT: What Ancient Cultures Can Teach Us about Raising Children
National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
How childhood trauma affects health across a lifetime -Nadine Burke Harris Ted Talk
Connect with Kirby:
Key Point Consulting: https://keypointconsulting.org/kirby.
Kirby on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrKirbyLWycoff
Kirby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirbywycoff
Essentials of Trauma- Informed Assessment and Intervention in School and Community Settings (Essentials of Psychological Assessment)
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Sep 30, 2024 • 1h 3min
Break Free from Emotional Trauma and Live with Confidence
Many of us have felt the weight of overwhelming emotions like anxiety, guilt, anger, and fear. These emotions can often keep us from addressing our needs, desires, or expectations in relationships, leading to feelings of isolation and disconnection– something we don’t need more of in motherhood.
In this episode, we're joined by our emotional freedom expert, Eliah Prichard, to explore the power of emotional healing, effective strategies for regulating emotions, and creative coping techniques to support your well-being.
Let's break free from emotional roadblocks together, mamas! Tune in now.
Topics discussed include:
Being grateful for your trauma
How childhood trauma can affect you
Learning how to process emotional energy
Developing effective parenting and secure attachment
Addressing behaviors as a parent
How children process grief
Regulating your emotions as a parent
Starting with self-awareness
Your emotions aren’t going to go away; they transform
Connect with Eliah:
Eliah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaleidos.cope
Eliah on Youtube: https://youtube.com/@thekaleidoscopechannel
Eliah on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kaleidos_cope
Kaleidoscope Website: https://www.kaleidos-cope.com
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Sep 23, 2024 • 53min
Holiday Survival Guide - Secret Hacks for a Stress-Free Season!
With the holidays fast approaching, Kacie and Gianna are back to help you navigate the busy season!
This episode is packed with practical tips on preparing for fall, from getting your home ready for Halloween to finding time for yourself and your loved ones. They dive into how moms and dads often handle holiday prep differently, and the common challenge many moms face when it comes to asking for much-needed alone time.
Plus, they share a great rule of thumb for balancing family time without feeling anxious and overwhelmed. Get ready to enjoy a stress-free, meaningful holiday season!
Topics discussed include:
Fall preparations and arrangements
The concept of moms and dads functioning differently
The idea of moms don’t feel like they could ask for free time
Anxious attachment and abandonment issues
The feeling of grief
What is a great rule of thumb when it comes to setting time for your loved ones?
Halloween preparations (decors and dressing up)
Celebrating the Christmas season
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Sep 16, 2024 • 48min
Goodbye Stress, Hello Better You with Cortisol Control
We all know that sleep, stress, and productivity are intertwined, but do we really understand how much they affect each other? This episode welcomes Rachel Sanders, the founder of Rootine, who has made it her mission to tackle these everyday struggles.
Rachel dives deep into how cortisol, the “stress hormone,” impacts your health—especially your sleep and productivity. We talk about simple ways to manage cortisol and how your morning coffee might not be helping as much as you think. Plus, Rachel shares tips on staying productive and finding balance, even when life feels overwhelming.
Listen to this episode and take control of your health, one small change at a time!
Topics discussed include:
Understand why managing cortisol is crucial for your overall health.
Discover simple methods to balance your cortisol levels.
Learn how high-intensity workouts might worsen cortisol issues.
How elevated cortisol affects your sleep quality.
Why incorporating rest time is essential for managing stress and boosting productivity.
Resources:
Follow Rachel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelsopsanders
Rootine Website: https://rootine.co/
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Sep 9, 2024 • 51min
This App Is Changing the Game for Moms Everywhere
Struggling to find community and support as a mom?
Meet Lily Walla, the founder of Auggie, a thriving platform and marketplace that connects moms from all walks of life.
In this episode, Lily shares her personal journey, the challenges she faced as a mom herself, and how Auggie came to be a lifeline for countless mothers seeking product recommendations, advice, encouragement, and a sense of belonging.
Topics discussed include:
How did Lily come up with Auggie?
Dealing with postpartum depression blues.
What kind of community does the platform Auggie bring together?
How was Lily able to overcome postpartum depression?
What business tips does Lily Walla share, and how did she start her business?
How can one deal with impostor syndrome in business and life?
Lily’s favorite products/apps for moms
Resources:
Auggie Website: https://auggie.com/?ref=gianna-d
Baby Bjorn Bouncer: https://www.babybjorn.com/products/baby-bouncers/
Doona Baby Stroller: https://www.amazon.com/Doona-Infant-Seat-Latch-Base/dp/B07HML1BT5
Qeepsake: https://www.qeepsake.co/
Bumco Spatula: https://bumco.com/products/bumco-original-baby-bum-brush-gray
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Sep 2, 2024 • 46min
Latching On: Real-Life Struggles and Victories of Breastfeeding Moms
Life can get hectic, and breastfeeding can sometimes feel like a full-time job.
In this solo episode, K & G are sharing their experiences (with some mom tips on the side) navigating breastfeeding while juggling the demands of everyday life.
From pumping hacks to overcoming hurdles, we're covering it all! Discover the hidden gems of breastfeeding apps, the must-have tools that make mom life easier, and even how to turn pumping sessions into a me time ritual.
Topics discussed include:
Personal experiences with breastfeeding and pumping.
Recommendations for breastfeeding products and tools.
Strategies for maintaining a positive mindset during breastfeeding.
The importance of self-care and support for breastfeeding mothers.
Balancing breastfeeding with other responsibilities.
The role of healthcare professionals in supporting breastfeeding.
Resources:
Moms On Call: https://momsoncall.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoohJ4A_PGh6wt-5BLIEPA3byxoR3rl5AJc0305jfGVGjU5wjsu4
Sleepful Baby: https://www.sleepfullbaby.com/
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
The Go Diaper Free Podcast, hosted by Andrea Olson and Nicole Cheever, delves into elimination communication—a unique approach to infant potty training that begins from birth. As the world's first podcast dedicated to this topic, it offers everything you need to know, whether you're new to the concept or already familiar. To learn more, visit Go Diaper Free Podcast.
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Aug 26, 2024 • 59min
Why Your "Healthy" Food Choices Might Be Killing You
Our food choices are directly impacting our health and well-being. It's time to make a change…
Join us as we expose the shocking truth about our food system. Kelly Ryerson, MBA, IHC, a nutrition expert and regenerative agriculture advocate, reveals the hidden dangers lurking in our grocery stores. From GMOs to gluten, glyphosates to glycocins, we're uncovering the dirty secrets that are making us sick.
Get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about organic, and discover the transformative power of eating clean!
Topics discussed include:
What are glycocins and why do we care?
The government subsidizing chemical agriculture
Suffering chronic illness due to your GMO intake
The connection between autoimmunity and gluten
Organic can still be detrimental to your health
Food Regulations in the U.S. vs Food Regulations Elsewhere
Regenerative agriculture and its benefits
Why are seed oils bad and why do you need to avoid them?
Greenwash companies that are highly recommended.
Connect with Kelly:
Follow Kelly on her Website: https://glyphosatefacts.com/about/
Follow Kelly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glyphosategirl
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
The Go Diaper Free Podcast, hosted by Andrea Olson and Nicole Cheever, delves into elimination communication—a unique approach to infant potty training that begins from birth. As the world's first podcast dedicated to this topic, it offers everything you need to know, whether you're new to the concept or already familiar. To learn more, visit Go Diaper Free Podcast.
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Aug 19, 2024 • 42min
Back-to-School Transitions, New Friends and A New Nanny
Kacie and Gianna are trading in their summer hats for lunchbox prep and playdate planning on this episode.
The pair discusses transitions to new classes and onboarding a new nanny. Kacie and Gianna also tackle the importance of positive parenting, emphasizing the impact of kind words and actions on our little ones' self-esteem.
Topics discussed include:
Moving updates, sister engagement and more
Getting ready for the school year with new friends and how to prepare your child for it
Getting a nanny for your toddler in this back to school season
Referring your kids as “terrorists, monsters, and brats. etc.” or making them the punchline
“Don’t become your child’s first bully.”
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
The Go Diaper Free Podcast, hosted by Andrea Olson and Nicole Cheever, delves into elimination communication—a unique approach to infant potty training that begins from birth. As the world's first podcast dedicated to this topic, it offers everything you need to know, whether you're new to the concept or already familiar. To learn more, visit Go Diaper Free Podcast.
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/

Aug 12, 2024 • 1h 2min
Are You Ready for Some…Motherhood? Barstool Sports Broadcaster Kayce Smith on Embracing Life as a Mom in a Male Dominated Industry
You wouldn’t think Barstool Sports would be the environment to embrace your pregnancy, but broadcaster and sports personality says otherwise. Encouraging colleagues, a supportive audience (minus the thousands of male followers who unfollowed her after her announcement), and a baby shower thrown by Dave Portnoy! It was all better than she expected, AND SO is motherhood, because quite frankly, Kayce NEVER expected it. She spoke openly about thinking motherhood wasn’t for her, but now, she’s absolutely in love with her baby boy.
She opens up about the struggle with mom guilt, balancing a high-octane career in a male-dominated industry, and the importance of self-care. Plus, she shares her journey of rediscovering herself after motherhood and the reality of being a full-fledged working mom.
Tune in for an honest conversation packed with relatable insights for working moms everywhere!
Topics discussed include:
Transitioning into the sports world and experiencing mom life
Navigating mom guilt
Motherhood forces you to be who you are
Balancing work and being a mother
Self care strategies that you need to prioritize as a mom
How to find support as a mom working in a male dominated industry
The mourning and the loss of your solitude
Feeling disconnected with your body after giving birth
Resources:
Find Kayce on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayce-smith-1a181595/
Connect with Kacie & Gianna:
https://www.motheruppod.com
https://www.instagram.com/motheruppod
https://www.youtube.com/@motheruppod
View full show notes at www.motheruppod.com
The Go Diaper Free Podcast, hosted by Andrea Olson and Nicole Cheever, delves into elimination communication—a unique approach to infant potty training that begins from birth. As the world's first podcast dedicated to this topic, it offers everything you need to know, whether you're new to the concept or already familiar. To learn more, visit Go Diaper Free Podcast.
We are BIG BELIEVERS in therapy here at Mother Up. Let our sponsor BetterHelp connect you to a therapist who can support you - all from the comfort of your own home. Visit https://betterhelp.com/motherup and enjoy a special discount on your first month.
If you have any questions about the brand relating to how the therapists are licensed, their privacy policy, or therapist compensation model, check out this FAQ: https://www.betterhelp.com/your-questions-answered/


