WEBVTT
00:00:00.239 --> 00:00:06.240
The main key is really just making sure you get to dinner time and it's like, okay, I don't have to think about it.
00:00:06.400 --> 00:00:10.400
When you have to think about it, that's where you run into the issues of like, I'm just gonna do takeout.
00:00:10.560 --> 00:00:11.519
That's when it becomes hard.
00:00:11.599 --> 00:00:13.519
And at the end of the day, no one wants hard.
00:00:13.599 --> 00:00:19.199
So the thing that meal planning is doing is it's like setting you up to where that time is like, oh, I don't have to think about it.
00:00:19.359 --> 00:00:22.640
My past self set me up, I got this, you know.
00:00:26.559 --> 00:00:31.920
Motherhood is beautiful, but let's be real, it's also overwhelming.
00:00:32.159 --> 00:00:39.840
If you're a mom who loves her kids fiercely, but also has ambitions beyond the carpool line, you might be feeling something else too.
00:00:40.159 --> 00:00:40.640
Torn.
00:00:41.200 --> 00:00:48.719
You're keeping everything running, managing the schedules, the meals, the mental load, but you're also craving something more.
00:00:49.039 --> 00:00:55.840
Maybe it's your career, your creativity, or just remembering who you were before everyone needed something from you.
00:00:56.079 --> 00:00:59.439
And the guilt of wanting both, it's exhausting.
00:00:59.759 --> 00:01:10.319
From the outside, you look like you have it all together, but inside you're stretched thin, wondering if you have to choose between being a great mom and becoming the woman you're meant to be.
00:01:10.560 --> 00:01:14.400
Here's the truth: you don't have to choose between both.
00:01:14.640 --> 00:01:22.640
I'm Liz Emmerich, licensed therapist, mom of three, and someone who deeply understands the both and tension of motherhood.
00:01:22.959 --> 00:01:30.079
This is Experience Motherhood, the place where we dismantle the myth that you have to do it all or lose yourself.
00:01:30.319 --> 00:01:41.599
Through honest conversations with experts and moms in the trenches, you'll get mental health insights, grounded encouragement, and permission to build a life that honors every part of you.
00:01:42.000 --> 00:01:45.920
Let's live motherhood fully, honestly, and together.
00:01:46.159 --> 00:01:49.200
It's time to experience motherhood.
00:01:52.400 --> 00:01:55.920
Hello, and welcome back to Experience Motherhood Podcast.
00:01:56.159 --> 00:01:59.680
If you've ever found yourself staring into the fridge at 5 p.m.
00:01:59.920 --> 00:02:03.840
wondering what on earth you're going to make for dinner, you are not alone.
00:02:04.079 --> 00:02:08.960
Meal planning can feel overwhelming, but today's guest is here to change that for us.
00:02:09.120 --> 00:02:16.800
I'm so excited to be joined by Allison Schoff, a chef, registered dietitian, founder and CEO of Prep Dish, and a busy mom of three.
00:02:17.039 --> 00:02:28.800
After spending years as a personal chef and working in high-end spas, Allison saw firsthand the need for a more efficient, cost-effective, and sanity-saving way to get healthy, crowd-pleasing meals on the table.
00:02:28.960 --> 00:02:36.879
And that's exactly why she created Prep Dish to help busy moms like you and me make mealtime easier, healthier, and of course delicious.
00:02:37.120 --> 00:02:45.680
In this episode, Allison is sharing her best meal planning strategies, time-saving grocery shopping tips, and the key to keeping healthy without stress.
00:02:45.919 --> 00:02:56.639
So, whether you're juggling work, kids, or just the never-ending what's for dinner question, this conversation is packed with practical advice you can use starting today.
00:02:56.879 --> 00:02:58.800
So let's dive in.
00:02:59.120 --> 00:03:00.000
Well, hi, Allison.
00:03:00.240 --> 00:03:01.360
Welcome to the podcast.
00:03:01.520 --> 00:03:04.000
I am really excited for today's conversation.
00:03:04.319 --> 00:03:06.479
I just love talking about food.
00:03:06.560 --> 00:03:08.639
I don't know what like mom doesn't.
00:03:08.719 --> 00:03:12.800
Um, but I feel like the most common question is always for my kids, what's for dinner?
00:03:12.960 --> 00:03:14.319
Even if I have it written out.
00:03:14.479 --> 00:03:24.960
So I'm excited to hear all about you and your journey and just help us like get on this like train of meal planning because I think it's gonna help so many moms out.
00:03:25.120 --> 00:03:28.479
So, do you want to tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?
00:03:28.800 --> 00:03:29.439
Yeah, sure.
00:03:29.599 --> 00:03:40.479
So my name's Allison and I, gosh, I founded Prep Dish, I want to say 13 years ago, back when I was single, no kids.
00:03:40.639 --> 00:03:45.599
I was a personal chef and working one-on-one with clients, helping them get meals on the table.
00:03:45.840 --> 00:03:49.520
As I was doing this, I realized, wow, I'm I have this like system.
00:03:49.599 --> 00:03:51.919
So I was trying to be as efficient as possible.
00:03:52.240 --> 00:04:00.240
And I so as I was kind of working with clients, I started jotting down my recipes, but like more than my recipes, my system, right?
00:04:00.319 --> 00:04:02.319
Like, how do you batch things?
00:04:02.479 --> 00:04:05.280
How do you, you know, get in and out of the grocery store really quickly?
00:04:05.360 --> 00:04:08.400
Like all of these really like efficiency tips.
00:04:08.719 --> 00:04:20.000
And then kind of started coming up with a plan to get it online and do this one-to-many, you know, meal plan where I could not just help six people a week, but I could help, you know, thousands of people a week.
00:04:20.160 --> 00:04:23.279
And so I did that and, you know, had a lot of fun.
00:04:23.360 --> 00:04:28.079
And then, you know, now fast forward, you know, 13 years, 12 years.
00:04:28.240 --> 00:04:32.240
Now I am a, you know, busy mom with three little boys.
00:04:32.480 --> 00:04:38.560
And in the past, I made my recipes and my meal plans, but now it's like I have to have them.
00:04:38.800 --> 00:04:43.439
You know, like I on Friday, I'm like, okay, what what's my which plant am I using this week?
00:04:43.519 --> 00:04:44.879
Let's get the groceries ordered.
00:04:44.959 --> 00:04:48.319
Like I survive using these meal plans that I created.
00:04:48.399 --> 00:04:54.240
So it's been a kind of this full circle moment of I created something that my future self now really needs.
00:04:54.480 --> 00:04:54.800
Yeah.
00:04:54.879 --> 00:04:55.439
Oh my gosh.
00:04:55.519 --> 00:04:57.360
And I love meeting other boy moms.
00:04:57.519 --> 00:04:58.800
I also have three boys.
00:04:58.959 --> 00:05:02.800
I would love to know how old your kids are, just so listeners have an idea.
00:05:03.120 --> 00:05:05.519
So six, four, and 14 months.
00:05:05.759 --> 00:05:06.560
Oh, okay.
00:05:06.800 --> 00:05:07.600
You're in it.
00:05:07.920 --> 00:05:09.199
You're in it all the way.
00:05:09.439 --> 00:05:10.319
That's amazing.
00:05:10.560 --> 00:05:18.240
Well, okay, so back us up a little bit because I know like meal planning in general, like, I feel like people have heard of this.
00:05:18.319 --> 00:05:19.680
Like, it's not like a new term.
00:05:19.759 --> 00:05:22.000
Like, people talk about like, yeah, you should meal plan.
00:05:22.079 --> 00:05:25.519
Yeah, you should meal plan, but it can feel really overwhelming.
00:05:25.680 --> 00:05:28.079
And you know more than anyone with three littles.
00:05:28.319 --> 00:05:32.079
Like, it's kind of hard to find the time sometimes or to make the time.
00:05:32.800 --> 00:05:38.240
What do you think is like the simplest way to just get started if somebody wants to meal plan but hasn't yet?
00:05:38.480 --> 00:05:45.920
Yeah, well, it's kind of just doing the the basic thing, which is jotting down, like making a list of what you're going to eat for next week.
00:05:46.079 --> 00:05:49.759
Uh, you know, and that does not have to be a lengthy process.
00:05:49.839 --> 00:05:59.040
Like that can just be as simple as like, okay, we're gonna have chicken this day, you know, beef or tacos, you know, just kind of like figuring out what are we gonna like assign a day to a meal, just start there.
00:05:59.199 --> 00:06:01.600
Um, you know, and then from there you create the grocery list.
00:06:01.680 --> 00:06:12.399
And then kind of once you have that plan in place, it's a lot easier to then implement it because you've I want to say done the heavy lifting, but it doesn't have to be heavy lifting, you know, it can be as simple as writing out a list.
00:06:12.560 --> 00:06:12.800
Yeah.
00:06:12.879 --> 00:06:16.000
And like you even said it, it sounds so simple when you just say it.
00:06:16.079 --> 00:06:18.319
Like you just think about what you want to eat, duh.
00:06:18.399 --> 00:06:22.639
Like, but it can feel like, oh my gosh, meal planning, this is a huge process.
00:06:22.800 --> 00:06:24.000
Like, I don't have time.
00:06:24.160 --> 00:06:32.560
And but you're right, like just thinking, okay, what are some meals our family really likes to eat that's simple, nutritious, you know, has all this stuff.
00:06:32.639 --> 00:06:42.160
I think, at least for me, uh, sometimes when I think about meal planning, it's like, oh, I want to like make this beautiful meal that I see on Pinterest or Instagram.
00:06:42.240 --> 00:06:45.439
And it's like, I don't have the time right now to do that.
00:06:45.600 --> 00:06:52.720
Maybe it on a weekend here and there, like I can have that time and my husband can watch the boys or they can help because they're a little older now.
00:06:52.879 --> 00:06:58.879
But um, you know, I think that's so overwhelming sometimes, is just that idea of like it doesn't even need to look pretty.
00:06:59.279 --> 00:07:00.959
You just need to feed your family.
00:07:01.279 --> 00:07:03.920
No, sometimes the simplest recipes are the best too.
00:07:04.000 --> 00:07:12.480
Like there's a recipe that we have that we do, and we usually have new recipe, like we have new recipes every week, but there's uh it's salt and pepper drumstick.
00:07:12.560 --> 00:07:13.680
So it's literally chicken drums.
00:07:14.240 --> 00:07:16.959
You put salt and pepper on it, you put it in the oven and roast it.
00:07:17.199 --> 00:07:22.240
And we've had to use it more than once on the prep dish plans, even just because it's so good, it's so easy.
00:07:22.399 --> 00:07:23.920
My kids love it every time.
00:07:24.079 --> 00:07:30.079
So, you know, there's ones like that that it's like you you can't get simpler than that, but it's tasty and healthy.
00:07:30.160 --> 00:07:32.720
So it hits the mark on all the all the boxes.
00:07:32.959 --> 00:07:33.199
Yeah.
00:07:33.279 --> 00:07:34.480
Oh my gosh, it totally does.
00:07:34.639 --> 00:07:39.519
Do you think there's like a key for you, like uh, you know, making it last long term?
00:07:39.600 --> 00:07:42.560
Like, is there a certain day that you are always meal planning?
00:07:42.720 --> 00:07:45.199
Like walk us through the logistics.
00:07:45.519 --> 00:07:49.920
Yeah, and I think with that, um, yes, it's good to have like the system and schedule.
00:07:50.000 --> 00:07:54.480
I will say, especially with little kids, like the seasons change very quickly.
00:07:54.560 --> 00:07:56.639
Like if you have an infant, like it might change.
00:07:56.800 --> 00:07:59.279
Like you have like a nap for two hours.
00:07:59.360 --> 00:08:00.879
And so, like, for six months that works great.
00:08:00.959 --> 00:08:01.839
And then the nap changes.
00:08:02.000 --> 00:08:04.079
So, you know, like it will shift.
00:08:04.240 --> 00:08:07.600
Um, but I think it's just looking, okay, what does my life look at right now?
00:08:07.839 --> 00:08:14.720
And the good thing about little little kids and even older kids is there usually is some sort of inherent schedule and system.
00:08:14.879 --> 00:08:21.680
And so that is like one of the first keys is finding a time that like backs into like a set time, right?
00:08:21.839 --> 00:08:36.639
Okay, I know every, you know, Saturday morning my husband will take the kids outside for an hour and I can like write that list or make the grocery order or, you know, whatever it is, but just having kind of the set day and time when it backs up to something else, you know, making it this habit.
00:08:36.720 --> 00:08:39.360
And then um, you know, that kind of sets it in motion.
00:08:39.440 --> 00:08:51.519
But that's kind of the first step is figuring out when is it realistic to do and not just having it on a to-do list, but actually having it on your calendar and knowing the day and time that works, whether it's a nap time or, you know, whatever it is.
00:08:51.679 --> 00:08:58.559
Um, another thing that can really help, and this is where the the meal plans will come in handy, is figuring out are there pieces you can delegate.
00:08:58.720 --> 00:09:01.279
So we'll have people, you know, the grocery list is done.
00:09:01.360 --> 00:09:06.480
So maybe the husband, you know, the husband does the grocery shopping with the meal prep already lined up.
00:09:06.639 --> 00:09:11.919
Maybe you have a babysitter that's willing to during nap time do some chopping or like mix up a marinade.
00:09:12.159 --> 00:09:12.639
It's all there.
00:09:12.720 --> 00:09:20.080
So it's kind of nice that because it's printed out and set up, people can jump in, you know, people can jump in and help.
00:09:20.240 --> 00:09:26.240
So you can delegate and kind of have like this teamwork project and everyone can pick up where the other one left off.
00:09:26.399 --> 00:09:28.000
Yeah, that's a really good idea.
00:09:28.159 --> 00:09:29.360
Um, so I'm curious.
00:09:29.519 --> 00:09:32.480
So I we meal plan at our house pretty often.
00:09:32.639 --> 00:09:39.759
It's been it's actually like a joke with one of my husband's friends because anytime he comes over, he's like, Well, what's on the menu this week, Liz?
00:09:39.840 --> 00:09:41.120
Like, what's what are we having?
00:09:41.279 --> 00:09:44.399
Because he was he was just like blown away that that's what we do.
00:09:44.639 --> 00:09:47.279
I'm like, he'll save so much money doing this way.
00:09:47.440 --> 00:09:52.320
But um, so we meal plan, I love it, but I find, and maybe other people find this too.
00:09:52.399 --> 00:09:54.000
It's kind of like we do the same thing.
00:09:54.080 --> 00:09:55.759
We have like tacos once a week.
00:09:55.919 --> 00:10:04.159
We, you know, we have these staple meals that most of my children like here and here and there, or at least me and my husband like, and we're like, you're gonna like this someday.
00:10:04.240 --> 00:10:05.519
We're just gonna do it.
00:10:05.759 --> 00:10:14.240
Um, but we get in these ruts, I feel like, where it's like, yeah, like I just get kind of tired of these and I do want to try something new.
00:10:14.320 --> 00:10:19.919
And of course, you know, again, simple answer, well, then write it out and like go get the stuff.
00:10:20.240 --> 00:10:39.600
But I feel like when it comes then to kids and they start having either maybe more pickier tastes and or more opinions, I guess, you know, how how have you found that people can kind of keep that going the meal planning without feeling like, uh, I'll just give up and now we're ordering out all the time or yeah.
00:10:39.759 --> 00:10:41.279
Yeah, I think there's a few things.
00:10:41.440 --> 00:10:47.919
So one, I think with picky eaters, part of it's just having like establishing how you handle meals in your house.
00:10:48.000 --> 00:10:50.000
Like, hey, here's what we're having for dinner tonight.
00:10:50.159 --> 00:10:50.720
End of story.
00:10:50.799 --> 00:10:55.440
Like, not to say there's not going to be complaints, but kind of like starting there of like, okay, this is what we're having.
00:10:55.600 --> 00:10:59.360
Um, but then you know, there's ways that you can work with them and and kind of help them.
00:10:59.519 --> 00:11:07.039
So, you know, for example, if you want to switch something up, maybe you make a sauce and you don't put it on top of the chicken or the salmon, right?
00:11:07.120 --> 00:11:09.759
Like you keep the chimichuri on the side and it's there.
00:11:09.919 --> 00:11:15.440
And what I've found is a lot of times, even within a meal, like one of my kids will be like, I don't want to eat that.
00:11:15.600 --> 00:11:20.480
So I say, fine, you know, you don't have to, you know, if you want to, you can, but no, you don't have to eat it.
00:11:20.559 --> 00:11:22.639
And then by the end of the meal, he'll be eating it.
00:11:22.720 --> 00:11:29.120
But then lately the pattern is that night he doesn't eat it, but then we'll have leftovers for lunch the next day at lunch.
00:11:29.200 --> 00:11:29.679
I've noticed.
00:11:29.759 --> 00:11:32.799
Then he's like, okay, like I saw it last night, now I'm gonna eat it.
00:11:32.879 --> 00:11:34.080
And then he's like, Oh, this is good.
00:11:34.240 --> 00:11:46.480
So, you know, just but not you don't have to like force all new things, like always having something that they are familiar with and then introducing something new so that way, hey, maybe they don't try the new thing that night.
00:11:46.639 --> 00:11:51.360
But if they see everyone else at the table eating and enjoying it, a lot of times they'll come around eventually.
00:11:51.440 --> 00:11:53.200
And I try not to focus.
00:11:53.279 --> 00:11:54.399
That's another big tip.
00:11:54.559 --> 00:11:57.200
Don't focus on what they're eating, don't look, don't watch.
00:11:57.360 --> 00:12:14.960
They feel the pressure, like just I have a friend that works with fam, you know, picky eaters, and she'll actually have the family videotape, like set up their phone and videotape just so you can see and then be like, what would that feel like if someone was like staring at your food and being like, oh, that's so yummy.
00:12:15.039 --> 00:12:16.639
You know, like they pick up on these things.
00:12:16.720 --> 00:12:22.399
So the more I just really don't have an opinion on what my kids eat, half the time I don't even pay attention to what they eat.
00:12:22.480 --> 00:12:30.879
Like I just know they're there, they're at the table with us, they're eating the same foods, and I just kind of focus on my own meal, just as I would want someone else to do with me.
00:12:31.120 --> 00:12:32.639
Yeah, that's a really good point.
00:12:32.799 --> 00:12:37.440
And I feel like most moms in have deal dealt with like a picky eater.
00:12:37.519 --> 00:12:42.399
And if you haven't, you probably will because it's like it's gonna happen to you, even if you think it won't.
00:12:42.559 --> 00:12:48.320
Um, but even like my kids, some of my kids are a little older now, and I find that it it's very similar.
00:12:48.399 --> 00:12:50.320
Like we handle that very similarly.
00:12:50.480 --> 00:13:00.240
Like last night, even for example, most of the time my kids love chili, and we made chili, and my youngest, who's six, was like, I don't like this anymore.
00:13:00.399 --> 00:13:06.320
And it wanted something else, you know, wanted to go have leftover hot dogs from the night before, and and we were just like, No.
00:13:06.480 --> 00:13:09.120
And so I think there's just so much more of that opinion.
00:13:09.200 --> 00:13:12.559
But like you said, just being, you know, like, well, this is what dinner is right now.
00:13:12.639 --> 00:13:14.399
And you know, there was other things he liked.
00:13:14.480 --> 00:13:19.600
There was carrots, there was bread there, you know, like other things that he can fill up on if he really didn't want to.
00:13:19.679 --> 00:13:20.879
But I found the same thing.
00:13:21.039 --> 00:13:28.480
Yeah, he took a few bites, you know, and it it would have been a bigger deal, like you said, had I been sitting there and been like, take a bite, take a bite.
00:13:28.720 --> 00:13:30.799
You need to eat this food, like this is what it is.
00:13:30.960 --> 00:13:35.600
Um, but it is really hard as like moms because we want our kids to eat and be healthy and like all of that.
00:13:35.679 --> 00:13:48.720
So yeah, well, and the other thing that I like to keep in mind with kids, like we have kind of been training to look at like, okay, we need to eat a breakfast that's this size, a lunch that's this size, a dinner that that's this size, especially with like babies.
00:13:48.879 --> 00:13:52.080
It's not even a day getting the same amount of calories, it's a week.
00:13:52.240 --> 00:13:57.440
So over the course of the week, they need a certain amount of like protein, fat, and carbs.
00:13:57.600 --> 00:13:59.679
And they are going, it's left to their own devices.
00:13:59.840 --> 00:14:00.559
There's been research.
00:14:00.639 --> 00:14:03.679
They are gonna make sure that they get enough protein over the course of the week.
00:14:03.840 --> 00:14:07.120
So on Tuesday night when they eat nothing, well, that's okay.
00:14:07.200 --> 00:14:13.919
They're gonna make up for it maybe on Thursday, you know, like their bodies aren't, you know, three every three hours exactly the same proportion.
00:14:14.159 --> 00:14:15.919
So they know to tune into that.
00:14:16.000 --> 00:14:19.039
So sometimes I think it's just kind of allowing them to do that.
00:14:19.279 --> 00:14:20.720
Yeah, for sure.
00:14:25.840 --> 00:14:29.440
Okay, let's talk about kids and tech for just a minute.
00:14:29.679 --> 00:14:37.840
Because if you're anything like me, you want to keep your kids safe and connected without handing them the entire internet in their pocket.
00:14:38.080 --> 00:14:44.559
That's exactly why I have loved Gab Wireless and why we got the Gab Watch for my oldest a few months ago.
00:14:44.799 --> 00:14:51.519
It's honestly been a game changer for our family, and it gives my kid the freedom to check in with me when needed.
00:14:51.679 --> 00:15:00.480
And I get the peace of mind knowing that there's no social media, no internet, no distractions, just safe, simple communication.
00:15:00.720 --> 00:15:07.279
Plus, it's really affordable, which is huge when you're trying to balance all the expenses that come with raising kids.
00:15:07.519 --> 00:15:13.600
If you've been on the fence about when and how to introduce a device, this is such a great option.
00:15:13.759 --> 00:15:23.440
Whether it's for coordinating school pickups, letting them check in from a friend's house, or just giving them a little independence without all the online risks, Gab gets it.
00:15:23.600 --> 00:15:29.440
And because I love sharing things that actually help moms, I wanted to make sure to share this amazing company with you.
00:15:29.679 --> 00:15:36.000
Head to the show notes to get the link and use the code Motherhood to save you$25 off your purchase.
00:15:36.159 --> 00:15:39.279
This applies to both the Gab Watch or the Gab phone.
00:15:39.440 --> 00:15:42.720
Let's give our kids connection without compromise.
00:15:42.960 --> 00:15:47.440
Make sure to check out Gab Wireless today using the link in the show notes.
00:15:54.639 --> 00:15:56.639
Okay, so we're meal planning.
00:15:56.720 --> 00:16:02.960
We're picking like a time that works in the season for us right now, figuring out what kind of meals we want.
00:16:03.039 --> 00:16:10.559
Um, what are some like grocery shopping tips that would just help us save time and even just make some of those healthier choices?
00:16:10.799 --> 00:16:14.480
Yeah, so grocery shopping, number one, always have a list.
00:16:14.720 --> 00:16:16.639
Like I get into this trap too.
00:16:16.720 --> 00:16:25.440
You go into the store, you don't have a list, and it's like you're throwing things in, and that's where you get to the end of the week and it's like, I bought these radishes and I didn't like do anything with them.
00:16:25.519 --> 00:16:26.879
Like, why did I buy radishes?
00:16:26.960 --> 00:16:27.360
You know?
00:16:27.519 --> 00:16:29.679
So like I just like some, oh, we need to eat rad.
00:16:30.000 --> 00:16:30.559
I don't know.
00:16:30.799 --> 00:16:42.480
So making sure you go in with a list and sticking to that list is kind of like first, if you're actually going into the physical store, making that list divide it up by departments.
00:16:42.559 --> 00:16:44.720
So, like in my grocery store, it starts with produce.
00:16:44.879 --> 00:16:48.399
I put produce at the top, and then next is like the meat counter.
00:16:48.480 --> 00:16:58.639
So then I put me and then, you know, so putting it in the order in which you're going to go, it really does make the grocery trip a lot faster when you're not having to like reverse back and go to a different section.
00:16:59.519 --> 00:17:07.440
Um, and then from there, you know, my favorite thing now, I'm in the country and so I do online ordering and I have my groceries delivered.
00:17:07.599 --> 00:17:10.160
Sometimes, you know, I'm testing out the meal plans.
00:17:10.240 --> 00:17:13.759
I have an editor that creates them, but like I will help out with the testing.
00:17:13.920 --> 00:17:17.359
Sometimes there'll be a slip up, and then I'm like, oh man, because it's like my job.
00:17:17.680 --> 00:17:17.839
Yeah.
00:17:18.000 --> 00:17:21.359
It is kind of a bigger deal, but I order my groceries, they get delivered.
00:17:21.440 --> 00:17:25.200
Our meal plans, hopefully, by the time this airs, we are in the process of testing.
00:17:25.279 --> 00:17:27.039
They're integrated with Instacart.
00:17:27.200 --> 00:17:31.279
So it's one click, the Instacart card is filled, and the groceries are delivered.
00:17:31.359 --> 00:17:39.920
So, um, or even just like that curbside pickup, depending on, you know, most stores do that now, and that can save a lot of time too to just have that done.
00:17:40.160 --> 00:17:40.400
Yeah.
00:17:40.480 --> 00:17:44.880
Oh my gosh, that would be so cool to have it just like blop right into Instacart.
00:17:44.960 --> 00:17:47.519
And yes, and then you can kind of like add your staples, you know.
00:17:47.599 --> 00:17:51.279
It's like, okay, and then I also want lemons and some apples and you know, all the other.
00:17:51.519 --> 00:17:51.759
Yeah.
00:17:51.839 --> 00:18:05.039
Well, and it's crazy too, because I feel like the the more years that I've done the meal planning mostly consistently, um, you know, I think it it is really easy because it's like you just you know what you guys are eating every single week.
00:18:05.119 --> 00:18:08.559
You eat the same stuff, and it's not like you're starting totally fresh.
00:18:08.720 --> 00:18:14.880
Like I do the pickup order pretty frequently, and it's so nice because you can just go into that buy again section.
00:18:14.960 --> 00:18:17.759
I'm like, oh, yep, yep, yep, yep, yep, all of our stuff.
00:18:17.920 --> 00:18:22.960
But even like yesterday, I actually decided to go into the store off my list.
00:18:23.039 --> 00:18:25.920
And I don't do it very often, but I was like, I'm gonna do it.
00:18:26.079 --> 00:18:27.440
I want to pick my own produce.
00:18:27.519 --> 00:18:29.440
We've had some issues with the produce picking.
00:18:29.599 --> 00:18:37.200
And so went in there and well, A, I spent way more than I normally do because I was like, oh yeah, these look great too.
00:18:37.279 --> 00:18:38.319
Oh, this is a great deal.
00:18:38.480 --> 00:18:49.200
And so it was good feedback for me of like, okay, if I'm really trying to really watch the buzz budget, I probably do better with the pickup, even if they like upcharge a little bit.
00:18:49.279 --> 00:18:51.599
Like I actually am saving more doing that.
00:18:51.759 --> 00:18:52.640
Um I agree.
00:18:52.799 --> 00:18:58.720
But it is a balance because it's like, yeah, I do, I do enjoy grocery shopping when I have the time.
00:18:58.880 --> 00:19:03.440
Um, and I like to pick and see what else is new or go, you know, like you get to I know.
00:19:03.519 --> 00:19:10.400
I do like to go in and just kind of see, like, oh, is there another brand or like a this or you know, like what's what do they have these days?
00:19:10.720 --> 00:19:11.039
Yeah.
00:19:11.279 --> 00:19:12.319
So it is really interesting.
00:19:12.480 --> 00:19:19.519
I mean, I think it's nice if you can do both sometimes, almost just to kind of keep seeing, you know, what's going on in the actual store.
00:19:19.680 --> 00:19:30.720
You know, maybe there is something you didn't even know that was like healthier and cheaper, or you just don't know when you're on the app, you know, but it is a real time saver if you can plan ahead and do that.
00:19:30.960 --> 00:19:31.279
Yes.
00:19:31.519 --> 00:19:40.640
Okay, so with the meal planning, I know I feel like sometimes it's like, oh, I'm gonna try this recipe, or maybe it's a recipe you're like always doing.
00:19:40.720 --> 00:19:44.960
And again, just trying to save the mom a time and you know, time and time is money.
00:19:45.119 --> 00:19:53.200
What are some like must-have just kitchen tools that you have found like super helpful in your family or with clients or whomever?
00:19:53.440 --> 00:20:05.519
Yeah, I mean, my number one thing that I always recommend is like a large wooden cutting board, like a good quality one, and a good quality chef's knife, not like the small paring knife, like the bigger knives.
00:20:05.599 --> 00:20:09.680
Um, and if you're not comfortable using a knife, like a good knife skills class.
00:20:09.839 --> 00:20:20.079
There's a lot of local places that have them, even like YouTube videos, but just learning how to use a knife is going to be like a key to healthier eating because you know, you're gonna need to chop some vegetables.
00:20:20.240 --> 00:20:22.240
So I think that really is the core.
00:20:22.400 --> 00:20:33.359
And I used to teach uh cooking classes in people's homes, and I would be shocked at like people have these like little cutting boards and little knives, and I'm like, that is so inefficient, and you're never gonna like even growing up.
00:20:33.440 --> 00:20:40.960
I remember my mom like with this little knife, and I'm like, it's just so much faster if you can get the nice and you know, keep it sharpened.
00:20:41.119 --> 00:20:43.279
I sharpen mine, you know, a few times a year.
00:20:43.359 --> 00:20:44.160
It makes a big difference.
00:20:44.319 --> 00:20:47.839
You can tell once your knife gets dull, it's just it's it slows you down.
00:20:48.079 --> 00:20:51.359
So um that really is like my key one.
00:20:51.440 --> 00:20:57.119
Um, from there, you know, I don't recommend a lot of like fancy gadgets or like gadgets only have like one purpose.
00:20:57.359 --> 00:21:02.559
Depending on your timing and schedule, a nice crock pot or instant pot can be really nice.
00:21:02.720 --> 00:21:04.319
It just kind of depends if you need that.
00:21:04.480 --> 00:21:11.359
Like for us, I found on Sundays because we go to church, it's like Sunday morning I put in the crock because we get home at 12:30 and we usually eat at 12.
00:21:11.440 --> 00:21:13.279
So it has to be ready when we get home.
00:21:13.440 --> 00:21:17.680
So every Sunday I do something in the crock pot just um for ease.
00:21:17.839 --> 00:21:20.960
So, you know, part of it kind of depends too on what you need.
00:21:21.119 --> 00:21:40.079
Yeah, we've been trying to lean into some more recipes with this the slow cooker crock pot because yeah, not my kids are in this entering sport age era and we are like always leaving for a practice or game or something at like the five, 5:30 time, and you're like, oh, what do we do with dinner?
00:21:40.240 --> 00:21:47.359
And so I'm like, I need to hunt down some more recipes for that kind of purpose because it is it's so nice.
00:21:47.440 --> 00:21:52.960
Then everybody can just kind of eat in the shifts because that's just the reality we're in at the moment or entering into.
00:21:53.119 --> 00:21:54.799
And yeah, I I like that idea too.
00:21:54.880 --> 00:21:57.680
And the knife thing, like, oh, you do not want to see my knives.
00:21:57.759 --> 00:21:58.480
My knives are bad.
00:21:58.559 --> 00:21:59.599
I and I'm feeling like, oh.
00:22:00.160 --> 00:22:01.359
Okay, this is my nudge.
00:22:01.440 --> 00:22:04.799
I need to go either sharpen or believe me, you are not alone.
00:22:04.880 --> 00:22:07.359
It's most I, you know, I went to culinary school.
00:22:07.519 --> 00:22:15.200
So like it's, you know, I I have a different kind of experience with that, but I do try and put that out there to anyone that.
00:22:15.759 --> 00:22:17.440
Oh my gosh, so tricky.
00:22:17.680 --> 00:22:32.000
Um, you know, with the meal plans too, like I know so many people can be either either they're picky, like your kids are really picky, or maybe somebody is doing like, I don't know, a different kind of diet for whatever purposes, or they can't have gluten or whatever.
00:22:32.240 --> 00:22:35.759
Can you speak to like how how do you kind of balance all that?
00:22:35.839 --> 00:22:42.720
Like if you're trying to have, you know, those family dinners, yet everybody has different dietary needs.
00:22:42.880 --> 00:22:45.119
Um, any suggestions or what do we do?
00:22:45.359 --> 00:22:49.519
Yeah, I I think it some of it depends on like who has the dietary needs and what age.
00:22:49.680 --> 00:22:56.559
But one thing that's always helpful, and this is what I do when I entertain, is I always do like a mix and match, like build your own, right?
00:22:56.640 --> 00:22:57.440
Like a bowl.
00:22:57.519 --> 00:23:01.599
Like bowls are really, you know, like there's rice, you could do beans, a protein.
00:23:01.680 --> 00:23:04.960
So if you're vegetarian, then if you're paleo, you know, it's like all the different things.
00:23:05.039 --> 00:23:07.200
Like you can add the dairy or hold the dairy.
00:23:07.359 --> 00:23:12.960
Um, so you know, I think building your own and like something that's not already like completely put together is really helpful.
00:23:13.119 --> 00:23:26.240
In terms of like families, if there's dietary restrictions, if it's a kid, as much as possible, like if it's something like dairy, like it is nice to have the whole family just do it, you know, because that can make it trickier if like other people.
00:23:26.319 --> 00:23:33.920
So I think it, you know, but if it's, I don't know, if it's the mom and you don't mind that everyone else is like putting cheese on their tacos, then I wouldn't worry so much about that.
00:23:34.079 --> 00:23:40.960
Um, but the other thing with um food allergies and tolerances, so all of our plans are except for one, but they're all gluten-free.
00:23:41.039 --> 00:23:41.920
I'm gluten-free.
00:23:42.000 --> 00:23:44.079
So, you know, it's kind of how I created them.
00:23:44.400 --> 00:23:48.960
But anytime there's a restriction, I say always focus on what you can eat, right?
00:23:49.039 --> 00:23:55.519
Like there's so many, like you would look at our plans and read this like list of you know, hundreds of thousands of recipes that we've had over the years.
00:23:55.599 --> 00:23:58.720
And there's not one where you'd be like, oh my gosh, that's like a gluten-free thing.
00:23:58.799 --> 00:24:00.240
You know, like it's just like a normal food.
00:24:00.319 --> 00:24:09.920
Like if you focus on what you can eat and don't focus, like sometimes when people have to remove something, they get hyper-focused on that thing and finding a replacement for that thing.
00:24:10.000 --> 00:24:12.319
Like, oh, let's make all these replacement cheeses.
00:24:12.480 --> 00:24:17.599
Let's just make like a nice like meal that doesn't require cheese, you know.
00:24:17.920 --> 00:24:20.160
So yeah, that's a good point too.
00:24:20.240 --> 00:24:29.519
And and like you said, it probably depends a little on if it's like a child and how they're gonna interpret if somebody else is eating that and they can't, or yeah, especially in the home.
00:24:29.680 --> 00:24:31.680
I mean, when you go out, you know, there's other things.
00:24:31.759 --> 00:24:38.400
But yeah, in the home, I think it's especially in the beginning, it's good to just kind of everyone follow along if they can.
00:24:38.640 --> 00:24:39.519
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
00:24:39.680 --> 00:24:41.440
You know, and I found it helpful too.
00:24:41.519 --> 00:24:51.200
And you can tell me if this is helpful for you, but sometimes like when I meal plan, like we do typically, like I said, have like certain days that we tend to have that same meal, like tacos or whatever.
00:24:51.440 --> 00:24:56.400
But you know, now every week can be a little different with after school activities and such.
00:24:56.480 --> 00:24:59.039
And so we've kind of, I don't know, we're just very fluid.
00:24:59.119 --> 00:25:17.440
It's like I have what we need for what we're gonna eat at some point this week, but I know that we can flex days and I really try to make those really easy, quick meals or slow cookers on days where we're just out the door, we're really busy, or I don't have time to really cook, you know, take the hour to cook dinner or whatever.
00:25:17.839 --> 00:25:20.640
Um you do that too, is that I am more that way.
00:25:20.799 --> 00:25:21.519
Yes, I know.
00:25:21.599 --> 00:25:27.759
I like I say, like assign a dinner to and I'll like I have a little um board that I'll write it on with the dry erase.
00:25:28.079 --> 00:25:31.200
I'm I'm like kind of in the middle when it comes to rule breaker or not.
00:25:31.359 --> 00:25:34.559
Some people are big roll breakers, so it kind of depends on your personality.
00:25:34.799 --> 00:25:41.200
But yeah, I like to look at it and be like, oh, I said that Tuesday we were gonna do the fish, but like I'm really feeling this tonight.
00:25:41.279 --> 00:25:43.119
So like I'm gonna I switch it up.
00:25:43.359 --> 00:25:43.839
Yeah, yeah.
00:25:43.920 --> 00:25:44.400
Oh my gosh.
00:25:44.480 --> 00:25:44.640
Yeah.
00:25:44.880 --> 00:25:45.519
Like it's there.
00:25:45.599 --> 00:25:49.200
Um, and if you like, you know, I do like meal preps with like, you know, some of the chopping scents.
00:25:49.440 --> 00:25:54.799
As long as it's there and ready, then you can look at the list and be like, okay, I'm gonna swap this out, but at least like it's there.
00:25:54.880 --> 00:25:56.720
You have the ingredients, you have the plan.
00:25:56.880 --> 00:26:02.799
The main key is really just making sure you get to dinner time and it's like, okay, I don't have to think about it.
00:26:02.960 --> 00:26:07.039
When you have to think about it, that's where you run into the issues of like, I'm just gonna do takeout.
00:26:07.119 --> 00:26:08.079
That's when it becomes hard.
00:26:08.160 --> 00:26:10.079
And at the end of the day, no one wants hard.
00:26:10.160 --> 00:26:15.759
So the thing that meal planning is doing is it's like setting you up to where that time is like, oh, I don't have to think about it.
00:26:16.000 --> 00:26:17.680
My past self set me up.
00:26:17.839 --> 00:26:19.039
I got this, you know?
00:26:19.359 --> 00:26:19.680
Yeah.
00:26:19.839 --> 00:26:20.079
Yeah.
00:26:20.240 --> 00:26:24.880
Let's talk a little bit about the meal prepping because I feel like even for myself, that's kind of where I get stuck.
00:26:24.960 --> 00:26:26.400
It's like I've done all this good work.
00:26:26.559 --> 00:26:29.680
I have we have a plan, we have all the food from the grocery store.
00:26:29.920 --> 00:26:34.160
And then maybe I don't take that time initially to really prep the food.
00:26:34.319 --> 00:26:41.359
What kind of foods can we prep maybe like ahead of time, you know, whether it's fruit, veggies, meat, whatever.
00:26:41.519 --> 00:26:45.759
And then what foods are like, oh, you really should prep it like right before you cook it.
00:26:45.920 --> 00:26:46.240
Yeah.
00:26:46.559 --> 00:26:46.799
Yeah.
00:26:46.960 --> 00:26:53.680
I mean, the big one that I like to do is chopping the vegetables because, like I said, if they're chopped when you get to dinner, you've kind of got no excuses.
00:26:53.759 --> 00:26:58.160
Like you're gonna want to use your like, oh my gosh, I spent all this time like chopping those Brussels sprouts.
00:26:58.240 --> 00:27:00.000
I want to eat, like, they are not going to waste.
00:27:00.079 --> 00:27:01.759
Like I already like worked on this.
00:27:01.920 --> 00:27:03.279
So, and the vegetables too.
00:27:03.359 --> 00:27:05.759
There's the like, you know, batching efficiencies, right?
00:27:05.839 --> 00:27:13.119
So it's like if you're only pulling out that knife and cutting board, and it doesn't have to be like one day a week, it could be like, okay, I do half of it on, you know, Monday.
00:27:13.200 --> 00:27:14.720
I kind of pair it with like a meal.
00:27:14.880 --> 00:27:19.440
So like Monday night as I'm making dinner, I just chop the veggies for Tuesday and Wednesday.
00:27:19.519 --> 00:27:24.240
And then Thursday at lunch, I just chop, you know, so you can kind of like squeeze it in there.
00:27:24.400 --> 00:27:25.759
Um, so that's a good one.
00:27:25.839 --> 00:27:30.000
And then sauces and dressings and marinades, those are really good ones.
00:27:30.160 --> 00:27:35.359
Those are also good ones because you can usually like double them and use them in a few places, right?
00:27:35.519 --> 00:27:42.640
Like a balsamic dressing, you can make it, use it for a salad one night, and then the next night use it as a marinade.
00:27:42.799 --> 00:27:48.240
So, you know, it's like you kind of have to do the work once, but you get multi multiple, you know, uses out of it.
00:27:48.480 --> 00:27:48.640
Yeah.
00:27:48.720 --> 00:28:00.559
And like that would be such a great tip, too, of just like how could you use the same veggies or the same dressing, or like how could you like do it a couple of times so you're not doing multiple different meals, right?
00:28:00.720 --> 00:28:00.960
Yes.
00:28:01.039 --> 00:28:02.640
Like just thinking ahead a little bit more.
00:28:02.880 --> 00:28:03.279
Mm-hmm.
00:28:03.359 --> 00:28:03.680
Mm-hmm.
00:28:03.839 --> 00:28:06.799
And it just, yeah, just again, back to that efficiency piece.
00:28:06.880 --> 00:28:20.160
I really like to make it efficient, but then also like you're sitting down and you're having this like fresh, new, fun meal every night that's actually, you know, like sure, you could just like make the same thing every night, but you know, I want, I like to enjoy my food.
00:28:20.240 --> 00:28:22.160
I want my family to enjoy it, you know.
00:28:22.240 --> 00:28:25.200
It's it should be a pleasurable experience, in my opinion.
00:28:25.519 --> 00:28:25.839
Yeah.
00:28:26.079 --> 00:28:29.200
You know, random question on meal planning.
00:28:29.359 --> 00:28:39.119
But you know, when it when you're doing fruit, I feel like there's a lot of mixed confusion on if you should wash them right before or if you can wash them like earlier.
00:28:39.279 --> 00:28:40.960
Can you speak to your experience?
00:28:41.119 --> 00:28:42.720
Like what do we do with fruit?
00:28:42.799 --> 00:28:46.079
Because I feel like that would be a great time saver to prep everything.
00:28:46.240 --> 00:28:50.880
But then I have found it it doesn't seem to last very well in my fridge if I pre-wash.
00:28:51.200 --> 00:28:51.920
Yeah, I know.
00:28:52.079 --> 00:28:56.559
I actually, and I do see people that do that where they like prep all their fruit for the week.
00:28:56.880 --> 00:28:58.640
Fruit, I more do in the moment.
00:28:58.720 --> 00:29:02.880
And I don't know, like fruit for us is like what we use as a snack, like a nighttime snack.
00:29:02.960 --> 00:29:04.480
And so it's really not that hard.
00:29:04.640 --> 00:29:05.759
Like the kids kind of help with it.
00:29:05.839 --> 00:29:07.920
So I don't feel like it, and they're always gonna want to eat it.
00:29:08.000 --> 00:29:10.640
So it's like by not prepping it, they're not gonna not eat fruit.
00:29:10.720 --> 00:29:12.640
Like that's the thing they're always looking forward to.
00:29:12.880 --> 00:29:20.559
So yeah, I don't do, and we, you know, we do a lot of like apples, which yeah, you could, but again, like at night we don't need to save five minutes.
00:29:20.720 --> 00:29:22.880
So yeah, that's not the pinch time.
00:29:23.039 --> 00:29:34.720
Like, if it was something though, for like if I was gonna do a like a strawberry salad for dinner, maybe I would chop the strawberries in advance because at dinner, maybe like it would help if I didn't have to sit there and like chop the strawberries.
00:29:34.880 --> 00:29:41.440
So yeah, I don't do a lot of like pre I and I have wondered that on the pre-washing of the fruits, but I do feel like sometimes they go bad.
00:29:41.599 --> 00:29:42.559
So I don't yeah.
00:29:42.720 --> 00:29:48.079
Well, and it's so I feel like that one's just like some people swear by it and other people are the opposite.
00:29:48.160 --> 00:29:49.119
So then you're like, I don't know.
00:29:49.200 --> 00:29:50.480
I'm like, I don't know what to do.
00:29:50.559 --> 00:29:51.519
What do I do?
00:29:51.759 --> 00:29:56.000
Um, but yeah, it sounds like maybe just do what we're doing and just wash them right beforehand.
00:29:56.480 --> 00:30:07.519
No, I mean, and but the vegetables, I will say vegetables, like anything because you asked earlier, like what doesn't potatoes is one that you do need to like soak in water, but other than that, like a lot of vegetables and they'll be good for like a week.
00:30:07.599 --> 00:30:18.160
So, like chopped carrots, you know, even like zucchini, a lot of different, you know, cucumbers, tomatoes, as things, onions, you can chop those and they're good for you know, quite a while.
00:30:18.400 --> 00:30:18.640
Yeah.
00:30:18.799 --> 00:30:20.799
So it's like three to five days.
00:30:25.839 --> 00:30:32.400
As a mom, I'm always looking for skincare that's not only effective, but safe for me and my family.
00:30:32.640 --> 00:30:34.480
That's why I love Oliveda.
00:30:34.799 --> 00:30:44.079
Their products harness the power of the wild olive tree using pure olive leaf cell elixirs to nourish your skin with natural, toxin-free ingredients.
00:30:44.240 --> 00:30:49.440
No parabens, no artificial fragrances, just clean organic goodness.
00:30:49.680 --> 00:30:52.079
What makes Oliveda even more special?
00:30:52.240 --> 00:30:54.480
They're pioneers in waterless beauty.
00:30:54.640 --> 00:31:00.400
And instead of using water as a filler, they invest it in building wells for communities in Africa.
00:31:00.640 --> 00:31:05.200
So while you're treating your skin, you're also making a real difference in the world.
00:31:05.519 --> 00:31:15.519
So if you're ready to elevate your skincare routine with purpose, use the link in the show notes to take a two-minute quiz to get the exact products tailored for your skincare needs.
00:31:21.839 --> 00:31:28.160
Any like um other tips about meal planning that we haven't kind of discussed already that would be helpful?
00:31:28.400 --> 00:31:32.799
Um, you know, I think some of it just kind of going back to what we talked about in the beginning.
00:31:32.960 --> 00:31:36.720
I think one of the keys, you know, it's like figuring out how to make it a habit.
00:31:36.880 --> 00:31:44.000
And one thing that I like to kind of help people with initially in the beginning, because it's like, how do I just like start doing it?
00:31:44.240 --> 00:31:49.759
And I think part of it is just like figuring out in your mind, like, one, why is it important to you?
00:31:49.920 --> 00:31:51.279
You know, why is it important?
00:31:51.519 --> 00:31:52.559
Is it important to you, right?
00:31:52.640 --> 00:31:56.000
Like, is it important to you to sit down with your family and have a meal?
00:31:56.319 --> 00:32:06.640
And if it is, then I would say that first week that you do it, really like appreciate it as you sit down, be like, oh my gosh, I'm so glad I planned out the meals.
00:32:06.720 --> 00:32:09.519
Like I'm sitting down with my kids, I'm not up running around.
00:32:09.680 --> 00:32:11.599
Like, look, we're asking how the day was.
00:32:11.759 --> 00:32:14.319
Like, really appreciate how it works.
00:32:14.400 --> 00:32:18.880
And so then that way the next week you have that motivation and been like, oh, this week was so nice.
00:32:19.039 --> 00:32:21.279
Like, I really want to do that again next week.
00:32:21.440 --> 00:32:28.000
So I think that can really help create that rhythm in your life when you're thinking through and being intentional with it.
00:32:28.240 --> 00:32:30.319
Yeah, that's that's a really good point too.
00:32:30.400 --> 00:32:39.359
Like having the why and like making it personal to you, not just like what you know, Allison says or what Elizabeth says, you know, but to you, like personally, yeah.
00:32:39.519 --> 00:32:39.680
Yeah.
00:32:39.759 --> 00:32:43.279
I mean, because to me it's like, yes, the health portion is great.
00:32:43.359 --> 00:32:44.559
I want my kids to eat healthy.
00:32:44.640 --> 00:32:52.079
I want, you know, to enjoy our food, but also like just as a family unit, like that is the most important time of our day.
00:32:52.160 --> 00:32:56.400
Like that is when we sit down, that is when we connect, that is when we are a family, you know?
00:32:56.559 --> 00:33:02.400
And so for me, it's like about a lot of things, but like just that connection piece is huge for me.
00:33:02.559 --> 00:33:06.319
So I always try and remind myself that when I'm caught up in the hecticness.
00:33:06.400 --> 00:33:13.759
And yeah, I get the same way of like, okay, I said I was gonna do the groceries or do the list now or the groceries, and it's like I've got them, you know, it's a lot.
00:33:14.000 --> 00:33:16.000
Yeah, it it adds up real fast.
00:33:16.240 --> 00:33:16.720
Yes.
00:33:16.960 --> 00:33:17.759
Oh my gosh.
00:33:17.920 --> 00:33:19.759
Um, well, this has been super helpful.
00:33:19.839 --> 00:33:24.880
I'm hoping that so many people are gonna get a lot of tips, just like I have, especially about my knives.
00:33:24.960 --> 00:33:26.799
I'm gonna go look at them right after this.
00:33:26.960 --> 00:33:29.599
Um, but tell everybody where can they find you?
00:33:29.680 --> 00:33:32.319
How could they get maybe some of the resources you have?
00:33:32.559 --> 00:33:32.799
Yeah.
00:33:32.960 --> 00:33:34.799
So the website is Prep Dish.
00:33:34.960 --> 00:33:36.799
Um, I set up a two-week free trial.
00:33:36.880 --> 00:33:45.440
So if people want to try the meal plans, sometimes I see even if you're doing it on your own, you can always try them just to kind of see how we've done it to get ideas on how to do it yourself.
00:33:45.519 --> 00:33:51.519
Um, it's prepdish.com slash motherhood, and it'll be 14 days free to try it out.
00:33:51.680 --> 00:33:54.000
Um, I'm at Prep Dish on Instagram.
00:33:54.079 --> 00:34:04.880
Oh, and I have a podcast, Meal Prep Monday, where I talk meal planning, meal prep, but also motherhood, and I kind of go on off on tangents and stuff, but amazing.
00:34:04.960 --> 00:34:11.679
Oh my gosh, that'll be so awesome for anybody who's like, I just need some help to start with the meal planning and get the ball rolling.
00:34:11.840 --> 00:34:13.199
I think that's amazing.
00:34:13.280 --> 00:34:18.400
Um, so definitely go check out Allison's website and do the two-week free trial.
00:34:18.559 --> 00:34:27.280
And yeah, the podcast would be an amazing resource too, obviously, because she's gonna go into all kinds of things about meal prepping and food and all of that.
00:34:27.440 --> 00:34:31.119
So um, I'll make sure all of those links are included in the show notes.
00:34:31.199 --> 00:34:37.119
And Allison, just thank you so much for being here and like sharing all of your tips and tricks about meal planning.
00:34:37.280 --> 00:34:37.920
Super helpful.
00:34:38.159 --> 00:34:39.199
Yeah, thanks for having me.
00:34:39.280 --> 00:34:40.559
This was a lot of fun.
00:34:41.440 --> 00:34:48.800
Thank you so much for joining me today, and I hope this episode really brought so much value to your experience in motherhood.
00:34:48.960 --> 00:34:55.920
Please take a minute to rate and review this podcast and make sure that you're subscribed so you don't miss the next new episode.
00:34:56.239 --> 00:34:59.840
Until next time, go experience motherhood.
00:35:06.559 --> 00:35:12.079
The Experienced Motherhood Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.
00:35:12.400 --> 00:35:18.800
Nothing shared on this podcast should be considered clinical advice or a substitute for individualized mental health care.
00:35:19.199 --> 00:35:25.840
Although I am a licensed professional clinical counselor, this podcast does not establish a therapeutic relationship.
00:35:26.159 --> 00:35:30.880
If you're needing support, please reach out to a qualified mental health provider near you.
00:35:31.119 --> 00:35:37.840
If you're in crisis, contact your local emergency services or the 988 Suicide in Crisis Lifelink.
00:00:00.239 --> 00:00:06.240
The main key is really just making sure you get to dinner time and it's like, okay, I don't have to think about it.
00:00:06.400 --> 00:00:10.400
When you have to think about it, that's where you run into the issues of like, I'm just gonna do takeout.
00:00:10.560 --> 00:00:11.519
That's when it becomes hard.
00:00:11.599 --> 00:00:13.519
And at the end of the day, no one wants hard.
00:00:13.599 --> 00:00:19.199
So the thing that meal planning is doing is it's like setting you up to where that time is like, oh, I don't have to think about it.
00:00:19.359 --> 00:00:22.640
My past self set me up, I got this, you know.
00:00:26.559 --> 00:00:31.920
Motherhood is beautiful, but let's be real, it's also overwhelming.
00:00:32.159 --> 00:00:39.840
If you're a mom who loves her kids fiercely, but also has ambitions beyond the carpool line, you might be feeling something else too.
00:00:40.159 --> 00:00:40.640
Torn.
00:00:41.200 --> 00:00:48.719
You're keeping everything running, managing the schedules, the meals, the mental load, but you're also craving something more.
00:00:49.039 --> 00:00:55.840
Maybe it's your career, your creativity, or just remembering who you were before everyone needed something from you.
00:00:56.079 --> 00:00:59.439
And the guilt of wanting both, it's exhausting.
00:00:59.759 --> 00:01:10.319
From the outside, you look like you have it all together, but inside you're stretched thin, wondering if you have to choose between being a great mom and becoming the woman you're meant to be.
00:01:10.560 --> 00:01:14.400
Here's the truth: you don't have to choose between both.
00:01:14.640 --> 00:01:22.640
I'm Liz Emmerich, licensed therapist, mom of three, and someone who deeply understands the both and tension of motherhood.
00:01:22.959 --> 00:01:30.079
This is Experience Motherhood, the place where we dismantle the myth that you have to do it all or lose yourself.
00:01:30.319 --> 00:01:41.599
Through honest conversations with experts and moms in the trenches, you'll get mental health insights, grounded encouragement, and permission to build a life that honors every part of you.
00:01:42.000 --> 00:01:45.920
Let's live motherhood fully, honestly, and together.
00:01:46.159 --> 00:01:49.200
It's time to experience motherhood.
00:01:52.400 --> 00:01:55.920
Hello, and welcome back to Experience Motherhood Podcast.
00:01:56.159 --> 00:01:59.680
If you've ever found yourself staring into the fridge at 5 p.m.
00:01:59.920 --> 00:02:03.840
wondering what on earth you're going to make for dinner, you are not alone.
00:02:04.079 --> 00:02:08.960
Meal planning can feel overwhelming, but today's guest is here to change that for us.
00:02:09.120 --> 00:02:16.800
I'm so excited to be joined by Allison Schoff, a chef, registered dietitian, founder and CEO of Prep Dish, and a busy mom of three.
00:02:17.039 --> 00:02:28.800
After spending years as a personal chef and working in high-end spas, Allison saw firsthand the need for a more efficient, cost-effective, and sanity-saving way to get healthy, crowd-pleasing meals on the table.
00:02:28.960 --> 00:02:36.879
And that's exactly why she created Prep Dish to help busy moms like you and me make mealtime easier, healthier, and of course delicious.
00:02:37.120 --> 00:02:45.680
In this episode, Allison is sharing her best meal planning strategies, time-saving grocery shopping tips, and the key to keeping healthy without stress.
00:02:45.919 --> 00:02:56.639
So, whether you're juggling work, kids, or just the never-ending what's for dinner question, this conversation is packed with practical advice you can use starting today.
00:02:56.879 --> 00:02:58.800
So let's dive in.
00:02:59.120 --> 00:03:00.000
Well, hi, Allison.
00:03:00.240 --> 00:03:01.360
Welcome to the podcast.
00:03:01.520 --> 00:03:04.000
I am really excited for today's conversation.
00:03:04.319 --> 00:03:06.479
I just love talking about food.
00:03:06.560 --> 00:03:08.639
I don't know what like mom doesn't.
00:03:08.719 --> 00:03:12.800
Um, but I feel like the most common question is always for my kids, what's for dinner?
00:03:12.960 --> 00:03:14.319
Even if I have it written out.
00:03:14.479 --> 00:03:24.960
So I'm excited to hear all about you and your journey and just help us like get on this like train of meal planning because I think it's gonna help so many moms out.
00:03:25.120 --> 00:03:28.479
So, do you want to tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?
00:03:28.800 --> 00:03:29.439
Yeah, sure.
00:03:29.599 --> 00:03:40.479
So my name's Allison and I, gosh, I founded Prep Dish, I want to say 13 years ago, back when I was single, no kids.
00:03:40.639 --> 00:03:45.599
I was a personal chef and working one-on-one with clients, helping them get meals on the table.
00:03:45.840 --> 00:03:49.520
As I was doing this, I realized, wow, I'm I have this like system.
00:03:49.599 --> 00:03:51.919
So I was trying to be as efficient as possible.
00:03:52.240 --> 00:04:00.240
And I so as I was kind of working with clients, I started jotting down my recipes, but like more than my recipes, my system, right?
00:04:00.319 --> 00:04:02.319
Like, how do you batch things?
00:04:02.479 --> 00:04:05.280
How do you, you know, get in and out of the grocery store really quickly?
00:04:05.360 --> 00:04:08.400
Like all of these really like efficiency tips.
00:04:08.719 --> 00:04:20.000
And then kind of started coming up with a plan to get it online and do this one-to-many, you know, meal plan where I could not just help six people a week, but I could help, you know, thousands of people a week.
00:04:20.160 --> 00:04:23.279
And so I did that and, you know, had a lot of fun.
00:04:23.360 --> 00:04:28.079
And then, you know, now fast forward, you know, 13 years, 12 years.
00:04:28.240 --> 00:04:32.240
Now I am a, you know, busy mom with three little boys.
00:04:32.480 --> 00:04:38.560
And in the past, I made my recipes and my meal plans, but now it's like I have to have them.
00:04:38.800 --> 00:04:43.439
You know, like I on Friday, I'm like, okay, what what's my which plant am I using this week?
00:04:43.519 --> 00:04:44.879
Let's get the groceries ordered.
00:04:44.959 --> 00:04:48.319
Like I survive using these meal plans that I created.
00:04:48.399 --> 00:04:54.240
So it's been a kind of this full circle moment of I created something that my future self now really needs.
00:04:54.480 --> 00:04:54.800
Yeah.
00:04:54.879 --> 00:04:55.439
Oh my gosh.
00:04:55.519 --> 00:04:57.360
And I love meeting other boy moms.
00:04:57.519 --> 00:04:58.800
I also have three boys.
00:04:58.959 --> 00:05:02.800
I would love to know how old your kids are, just so listeners have an idea.
00:05:03.120 --> 00:05:05.519
So six, four, and 14 months.
00:05:05.759 --> 00:05:06.560
Oh, okay.
00:05:06.800 --> 00:05:07.600
You're in it.
00:05:07.920 --> 00:05:09.199
You're in it all the way.
00:05:09.439 --> 00:05:10.319
That's amazing.
00:05:10.560 --> 00:05:18.240
Well, okay, so back us up a little bit because I know like meal planning in general, like, I feel like people have heard of this.
00:05:18.319 --> 00:05:19.680
Like, it's not like a new term.
00:05:19.759 --> 00:05:22.000
Like, people talk about like, yeah, you should meal plan.
00:05:22.079 --> 00:05:25.519
Yeah, you should meal plan, but it can feel really overwhelming.
00:05:25.680 --> 00:05:28.079
And you know more than anyone with three littles.
00:05:28.319 --> 00:05:32.079
Like, it's kind of hard to find the time sometimes or to make the time.
00:05:32.800 --> 00:05:38.240
What do you think is like the simplest way to just get started if somebody wants to meal plan but hasn't yet?
00:05:38.480 --> 00:05:45.920
Yeah, well, it's kind of just doing the the basic thing, which is jotting down, like making a list of what you're going to eat for next week.
00:05:46.079 --> 00:05:49.759
Uh, you know, and that does not have to be a lengthy process.
00:05:49.839 --> 00:05:59.040
Like that can just be as simple as like, okay, we're gonna have chicken this day, you know, beef or tacos, you know, just kind of like figuring out what are we gonna like assign a day to a meal, just start there.
00:05:59.199 --> 00:06:01.600
Um, you know, and then from there you create the grocery list.
00:06:01.680 --> 00:06:12.399
And then kind of once you have that plan in place, it's a lot easier to then implement it because you've I want to say done the heavy lifting, but it doesn't have to be heavy lifting, you know, it can be as simple as writing out a list.
00:06:12.560 --> 00:06:12.800
Yeah.
00:06:12.879 --> 00:06:16.000
And like you even said it, it sounds so simple when you just say it.
00:06:16.079 --> 00:06:18.319
Like you just think about what you want to eat, duh.
00:06:18.399 --> 00:06:22.639
Like, but it can feel like, oh my gosh, meal planning, this is a huge process.
00:06:22.800 --> 00:06:24.000
Like, I don't have time.
00:06:24.160 --> 00:06:32.560
And but you're right, like just thinking, okay, what are some meals our family really likes to eat that's simple, nutritious, you know, has all this stuff.
00:06:32.639 --> 00:06:42.160
I think, at least for me, uh, sometimes when I think about meal planning, it's like, oh, I want to like make this beautiful meal that I see on Pinterest or Instagram.
00:06:42.240 --> 00:06:45.439
And it's like, I don't have the time right now to do that.
00:06:45.600 --> 00:06:52.720
Maybe it on a weekend here and there, like I can have that time and my husband can watch the boys or they can help because they're a little older now.
00:06:52.879 --> 00:06:58.879
But um, you know, I think that's so overwhelming sometimes, is just that idea of like it doesn't even need to look pretty.
00:06:59.279 --> 00:07:00.959
You just need to feed your family.
00:07:01.279 --> 00:07:03.920
No, sometimes the simplest recipes are the best too.
00:07:04.000 --> 00:07:12.480
Like there's a recipe that we have that we do, and we usually have new recipe, like we have new recipes every week, but there's uh it's salt and pepper drumstick.
00:07:12.560 --> 00:07:13.680
So it's literally chicken drums.
00:07:14.240 --> 00:07:16.959
You put salt and pepper on it, you put it in the oven and roast it.
00:07:17.199 --> 00:07:22.240
And we've had to use it more than once on the prep dish plans, even just because it's so good, it's so easy.
00:07:22.399 --> 00:07:23.920
My kids love it every time.
00:07:24.079 --> 00:07:30.079
So, you know, there's ones like that that it's like you you can't get simpler than that, but it's tasty and healthy.
00:07:30.160 --> 00:07:32.720
So it hits the mark on all the all the boxes.
00:07:32.959 --> 00:07:33.199
Yeah.
00:07:33.279 --> 00:07:34.480
Oh my gosh, it totally does.
00:07:34.639 --> 00:07:39.519
Do you think there's like a key for you, like uh, you know, making it last long term?
00:07:39.600 --> 00:07:42.560
Like, is there a certain day that you are always meal planning?
00:07:42.720 --> 00:07:45.199
Like walk us through the logistics.
00:07:45.519 --> 00:07:49.920
Yeah, and I think with that, um, yes, it's good to have like the system and schedule.
00:07:50.000 --> 00:07:54.480
I will say, especially with little kids, like the seasons change very quickly.
00:07:54.560 --> 00:07:56.639
Like if you have an infant, like it might change.
00:07:56.800 --> 00:07:59.279
Like you have like a nap for two hours.
00:07:59.360 --> 00:08:00.879
And so, like, for six months that works great.
00:08:00.959 --> 00:08:01.839
And then the nap changes.
00:08:02.000 --> 00:08:04.079
So, you know, like it will shift.
00:08:04.240 --> 00:08:07.600
Um, but I think it's just looking, okay, what does my life look at right now?
00:08:07.839 --> 00:08:14.720
And the good thing about little little kids and even older kids is there usually is some sort of inherent schedule and system.
00:08:14.879 --> 00:08:21.680
And so that is like one of the first keys is finding a time that like backs into like a set time, right?
00:08:21.839 --> 00:08:36.639
Okay, I know every, you know, Saturday morning my husband will take the kids outside for an hour and I can like write that list or make the grocery order or, you know, whatever it is, but just having kind of the set day and time when it backs up to something else, you know, making it this habit.
00:08:36.720 --> 00:08:39.360
And then um, you know, that kind of sets it in motion.
00:08:39.440 --> 00:08:51.519
But that's kind of the first step is figuring out when is it realistic to do and not just having it on a to-do list, but actually having it on your calendar and knowing the day and time that works, whether it's a nap time or, you know, whatever it is.
00:08:51.679 --> 00:08:58.559
Um, another thing that can really help, and this is where the the meal plans will come in handy, is figuring out are there pieces you can delegate.
00:08:58.720 --> 00:09:01.279
So we'll have people, you know, the grocery list is done.
00:09:01.360 --> 00:09:06.480
So maybe the husband, you know, the husband does the grocery shopping with the meal prep already lined up.
00:09:06.639 --> 00:09:11.919
Maybe you have a babysitter that's willing to during nap time do some chopping or like mix up a marinade.
00:09:12.159 --> 00:09:12.639
It's all there.
00:09:12.720 --> 00:09:20.080
So it's kind of nice that because it's printed out and set up, people can jump in, you know, people can jump in and help.
00:09:20.240 --> 00:09:26.240
So you can delegate and kind of have like this teamwork project and everyone can pick up where the other one left off.
00:09:26.399 --> 00:09:28.000
Yeah, that's a really good idea.
00:09:28.159 --> 00:09:29.360
Um, so I'm curious.
00:09:29.519 --> 00:09:32.480
So I we meal plan at our house pretty often.
00:09:32.639 --> 00:09:39.759
It's been it's actually like a joke with one of my husband's friends because anytime he comes over, he's like, Well, what's on the menu this week, Liz?
00:09:39.840 --> 00:09:41.120
Like, what's what are we having?
00:09:41.279 --> 00:09:44.399
Because he was he was just like blown away that that's what we do.
00:09:44.639 --> 00:09:47.279
I'm like, he'll save so much money doing this way.
00:09:47.440 --> 00:09:52.320
But um, so we meal plan, I love it, but I find, and maybe other people find this too.
00:09:52.399 --> 00:09:54.000
It's kind of like we do the same thing.
00:09:54.080 --> 00:09:55.759
We have like tacos once a week.
00:09:55.919 --> 00:10:04.159
We, you know, we have these staple meals that most of my children like here and here and there, or at least me and my husband like, and we're like, you're gonna like this someday.
00:10:04.240 --> 00:10:05.519
We're just gonna do it.
00:10:05.759 --> 00:10:14.240
Um, but we get in these ruts, I feel like, where it's like, yeah, like I just get kind of tired of these and I do want to try something new.
00:10:14.320 --> 00:10:19.919
And of course, you know, again, simple answer, well, then write it out and like go get the stuff.
00:10:20.240 --> 00:10:39.600
But I feel like when it comes then to kids and they start having either maybe more pickier tastes and or more opinions, I guess, you know, how how have you found that people can kind of keep that going the meal planning without feeling like, uh, I'll just give up and now we're ordering out all the time or yeah.
00:10:39.759 --> 00:10:41.279
Yeah, I think there's a few things.
00:10:41.440 --> 00:10:47.919
So one, I think with picky eaters, part of it's just having like establishing how you handle meals in your house.
00:10:48.000 --> 00:10:50.000
Like, hey, here's what we're having for dinner tonight.
00:10:50.159 --> 00:10:50.720
End of story.
00:10:50.799 --> 00:10:55.440
Like, not to say there's not going to be complaints, but kind of like starting there of like, okay, this is what we're having.
00:10:55.600 --> 00:10:59.360
Um, but then you know, there's ways that you can work with them and and kind of help them.
00:10:59.519 --> 00:11:07.039
So, you know, for example, if you want to switch something up, maybe you make a sauce and you don't put it on top of the chicken or the salmon, right?
00:11:07.120 --> 00:11:09.759
Like you keep the chimichuri on the side and it's there.
00:11:09.919 --> 00:11:15.440
And what I've found is a lot of times, even within a meal, like one of my kids will be like, I don't want to eat that.
00:11:15.600 --> 00:11:20.480
So I say, fine, you know, you don't have to, you know, if you want to, you can, but no, you don't have to eat it.
00:11:20.559 --> 00:11:22.639
And then by the end of the meal, he'll be eating it.
00:11:22.720 --> 00:11:29.120
But then lately the pattern is that night he doesn't eat it, but then we'll have leftovers for lunch the next day at lunch.
00:11:29.200 --> 00:11:29.679
I've noticed.
00:11:29.759 --> 00:11:32.799
Then he's like, okay, like I saw it last night, now I'm gonna eat it.
00:11:32.879 --> 00:11:34.080
And then he's like, Oh, this is good.
00:11:34.240 --> 00:11:46.480
So, you know, just but not you don't have to like force all new things, like always having something that they are familiar with and then introducing something new so that way, hey, maybe they don't try the new thing that night.
00:11:46.639 --> 00:11:51.360
But if they see everyone else at the table eating and enjoying it, a lot of times they'll come around eventually.
00:11:51.440 --> 00:11:53.200
And I try not to focus.
00:11:53.279 --> 00:11:54.399
That's another big tip.
00:11:54.559 --> 00:11:57.200
Don't focus on what they're eating, don't look, don't watch.
00:11:57.360 --> 00:12:14.960
They feel the pressure, like just I have a friend that works with fam, you know, picky eaters, and she'll actually have the family videotape, like set up their phone and videotape just so you can see and then be like, what would that feel like if someone was like staring at your food and being like, oh, that's so yummy.
00:12:15.039 --> 00:12:16.639
You know, like they pick up on these things.
00:12:16.720 --> 00:12:22.399
So the more I just really don't have an opinion on what my kids eat, half the time I don't even pay attention to what they eat.
00:12:22.480 --> 00:12:30.879
Like I just know they're there, they're at the table with us, they're eating the same foods, and I just kind of focus on my own meal, just as I would want someone else to do with me.
00:12:31.120 --> 00:12:32.639
Yeah, that's a really good point.
00:12:32.799 --> 00:12:37.440
And I feel like most moms in have deal dealt with like a picky eater.
00:12:37.519 --> 00:12:42.399
And if you haven't, you probably will because it's like it's gonna happen to you, even if you think it won't.
00:12:42.559 --> 00:12:48.320
Um, but even like my kids, some of my kids are a little older now, and I find that it it's very similar.
00:12:48.399 --> 00:12:50.320
Like we handle that very similarly.
00:12:50.480 --> 00:13:00.240
Like last night, even for example, most of the time my kids love chili, and we made chili, and my youngest, who's six, was like, I don't like this anymore.
00:13:00.399 --> 00:13:06.320
And it wanted something else, you know, wanted to go have leftover hot dogs from the night before, and and we were just like, No.
00:13:06.480 --> 00:13:09.120
And so I think there's just so much more of that opinion.
00:13:09.200 --> 00:13:12.559
But like you said, just being, you know, like, well, this is what dinner is right now.
00:13:12.639 --> 00:13:14.399
And you know, there was other things he liked.
00:13:14.480 --> 00:13:19.600
There was carrots, there was bread there, you know, like other things that he can fill up on if he really didn't want to.
00:13:19.679 --> 00:13:20.879
But I found the same thing.
00:13:21.039 --> 00:13:28.480
Yeah, he took a few bites, you know, and it it would have been a bigger deal, like you said, had I been sitting there and been like, take a bite, take a bite.
00:13:28.720 --> 00:13:30.799
You need to eat this food, like this is what it is.
00:13:30.960 --> 00:13:35.600
Um, but it is really hard as like moms because we want our kids to eat and be healthy and like all of that.
00:13:35.679 --> 00:13:48.720
So yeah, well, and the other thing that I like to keep in mind with kids, like we have kind of been training to look at like, okay, we need to eat a breakfast that's this size, a lunch that's this size, a dinner that that's this size, especially with like babies.
00:13:48.879 --> 00:13:52.080
It's not even a day getting the same amount of calories, it's a week.
00:13:52.240 --> 00:13:57.440
So over the course of the week, they need a certain amount of like protein, fat, and carbs.
00:13:57.600 --> 00:13:59.679
And they are going, it's left to their own devices.
00:13:59.840 --> 00:14:00.559
There's been research.
00:14:00.639 --> 00:14:03.679
They are gonna make sure that they get enough protein over the course of the week.
00:14:03.840 --> 00:14:07.120
So on Tuesday night when they eat nothing, well, that's okay.
00:14:07.200 --> 00:14:13.919
They're gonna make up for it maybe on Thursday, you know, like their bodies aren't, you know, three every three hours exactly the same proportion.
00:14:14.159 --> 00:14:15.919
So they know to tune into that.
00:14:16.000 --> 00:14:19.039
So sometimes I think it's just kind of allowing them to do that.
00:14:19.279 --> 00:14:20.720
Yeah, for sure.
00:14:25.840 --> 00:14:29.440
Okay, let's talk about kids and tech for just a minute.
00:14:29.679 --> 00:14:37.840
Because if you're anything like me, you want to keep your kids safe and connected without handing them the entire internet in their pocket.
00:14:38.080 --> 00:14:44.559
That's exactly why I have loved Gab Wireless and why we got the Gab Watch for my oldest a few months ago.
00:14:44.799 --> 00:14:51.519
It's honestly been a game changer for our family, and it gives my kid the freedom to check in with me when needed.
00:14:51.679 --> 00:15:00.480
And I get the peace of mind knowing that there's no social media, no internet, no distractions, just safe, simple communication.
00:15:00.720 --> 00:15:07.279
Plus, it's really affordable, which is huge when you're trying to balance all the expenses that come with raising kids.
00:15:07.519 --> 00:15:13.600
If you've been on the fence about when and how to introduce a device, this is such a great option.
00:15:13.759 --> 00:15:23.440
Whether it's for coordinating school pickups, letting them check in from a friend's house, or just giving them a little independence without all the online risks, Gab gets it.
00:15:23.600 --> 00:15:29.440
And because I love sharing things that actually help moms, I wanted to make sure to share this amazing company with you.
00:15:29.679 --> 00:15:36.000
Head to the show notes to get the link and use the code Motherhood to save you$25 off your purchase.
00:15:36.159 --> 00:15:39.279
This applies to both the Gab Watch or the Gab phone.
00:15:39.440 --> 00:15:42.720
Let's give our kids connection without compromise.
00:15:42.960 --> 00:15:47.440
Make sure to check out Gab Wireless today using the link in the show notes.
00:15:54.639 --> 00:15:56.639
Okay, so we're meal planning.
00:15:56.720 --> 00:16:02.960
We're picking like a time that works in the season for us right now, figuring out what kind of meals we want.
00:16:03.039 --> 00:16:10.559
Um, what are some like grocery shopping tips that would just help us save time and even just make some of those healthier choices?
00:16:10.799 --> 00:16:14.480
Yeah, so grocery shopping, number one, always have a list.
00:16:14.720 --> 00:16:16.639
Like I get into this trap too.
00:16:16.720 --> 00:16:25.440
You go into the store, you don't have a list, and it's like you're throwing things in, and that's where you get to the end of the week and it's like, I bought these radishes and I didn't like do anything with them.
00:16:25.519 --> 00:16:26.879
Like, why did I buy radishes?
00:16:26.960 --> 00:16:27.360
You know?
00:16:27.519 --> 00:16:29.679
So like I just like some, oh, we need to eat rad.
00:16:30.000 --> 00:16:30.559
I don't know.
00:16:30.799 --> 00:16:42.480
So making sure you go in with a list and sticking to that list is kind of like first, if you're actually going into the physical store, making that list divide it up by departments.
00:16:42.559 --> 00:16:44.720
So, like in my grocery store, it starts with produce.
00:16:44.879 --> 00:16:48.399
I put produce at the top, and then next is like the meat counter.
00:16:48.480 --> 00:16:58.639
So then I put me and then, you know, so putting it in the order in which you're going to go, it really does make the grocery trip a lot faster when you're not having to like reverse back and go to a different section.
00:16:59.519 --> 00:17:07.440
Um, and then from there, you know, my favorite thing now, I'm in the country and so I do online ordering and I have my groceries delivered.
00:17:07.599 --> 00:17:10.160
Sometimes, you know, I'm testing out the meal plans.
00:17:10.240 --> 00:17:13.759
I have an editor that creates them, but like I will help out with the testing.
00:17:13.920 --> 00:17:17.359
Sometimes there'll be a slip up, and then I'm like, oh man, because it's like my job.
00:17:17.680 --> 00:17:17.839
Yeah.
00:17:18.000 --> 00:17:21.359
It is kind of a bigger deal, but I order my groceries, they get delivered.
00:17:21.440 --> 00:17:25.200
Our meal plans, hopefully, by the time this airs, we are in the process of testing.
00:17:25.279 --> 00:17:27.039
They're integrated with Instacart.
00:17:27.200 --> 00:17:31.279
So it's one click, the Instacart card is filled, and the groceries are delivered.
00:17:31.359 --> 00:17:39.920
So, um, or even just like that curbside pickup, depending on, you know, most stores do that now, and that can save a lot of time too to just have that done.
00:17:40.160 --> 00:17:40.400
Yeah.
00:17:40.480 --> 00:17:44.880
Oh my gosh, that would be so cool to have it just like blop right into Instacart.
00:17:44.960 --> 00:17:47.519
And yes, and then you can kind of like add your staples, you know.
00:17:47.599 --> 00:17:51.279
It's like, okay, and then I also want lemons and some apples and you know, all the other.
00:17:51.519 --> 00:17:51.759
Yeah.
00:17:51.839 --> 00:18:05.039
Well, and it's crazy too, because I feel like the the more years that I've done the meal planning mostly consistently, um, you know, I think it it is really easy because it's like you just you know what you guys are eating every single week.
00:18:05.119 --> 00:18:08.559
You eat the same stuff, and it's not like you're starting totally fresh.
00:18:08.720 --> 00:18:14.880
Like I do the pickup order pretty frequently, and it's so nice because you can just go into that buy again section.
00:18:14.960 --> 00:18:17.759
I'm like, oh, yep, yep, yep, yep, yep, all of our stuff.
00:18:17.920 --> 00:18:22.960
But even like yesterday, I actually decided to go into the store off my list.
00:18:23.039 --> 00:18:25.920
And I don't do it very often, but I was like, I'm gonna do it.
00:18:26.079 --> 00:18:27.440
I want to pick my own produce.
00:18:27.519 --> 00:18:29.440
We've had some issues with the produce picking.
00:18:29.599 --> 00:18:37.200
And so went in there and well, A, I spent way more than I normally do because I was like, oh yeah, these look great too.
00:18:37.279 --> 00:18:38.319
Oh, this is a great deal.
00:18:38.480 --> 00:18:49.200
And so it was good feedback for me of like, okay, if I'm really trying to really watch the buzz budget, I probably do better with the pickup, even if they like upcharge a little bit.
00:18:49.279 --> 00:18:51.599
Like I actually am saving more doing that.
00:18:51.759 --> 00:18:52.640
Um I agree.
00:18:52.799 --> 00:18:58.720
But it is a balance because it's like, yeah, I do, I do enjoy grocery shopping when I have the time.
00:18:58.880 --> 00:19:03.440
Um, and I like to pick and see what else is new or go, you know, like you get to I know.
00:19:03.519 --> 00:19:10.400
I do like to go in and just kind of see, like, oh, is there another brand or like a this or you know, like what's what do they have these days?
00:19:10.720 --> 00:19:11.039
Yeah.
00:19:11.279 --> 00:19:12.319
So it is really interesting.
00:19:12.480 --> 00:19:19.519
I mean, I think it's nice if you can do both sometimes, almost just to kind of keep seeing, you know, what's going on in the actual store.
00:19:19.680 --> 00:19:30.720
You know, maybe there is something you didn't even know that was like healthier and cheaper, or you just don't know when you're on the app, you know, but it is a real time saver if you can plan ahead and do that.
00:19:30.960 --> 00:19:31.279
Yes.
00:19:31.519 --> 00:19:40.640
Okay, so with the meal planning, I know I feel like sometimes it's like, oh, I'm gonna try this recipe, or maybe it's a recipe you're like always doing.
00:19:40.720 --> 00:19:44.960
And again, just trying to save the mom a time and you know, time and time is money.
00:19:45.119 --> 00:19:53.200
What are some like must-have just kitchen tools that you have found like super helpful in your family or with clients or whomever?
00:19:53.440 --> 00:20:05.519
Yeah, I mean, my number one thing that I always recommend is like a large wooden cutting board, like a good quality one, and a good quality chef's knife, not like the small paring knife, like the bigger knives.
00:20:05.599 --> 00:20:09.680
Um, and if you're not comfortable using a knife, like a good knife skills class.
00:20:09.839 --> 00:20:20.079
There's a lot of local places that have them, even like YouTube videos, but just learning how to use a knife is going to be like a key to healthier eating because you know, you're gonna need to chop some vegetables.
00:20:20.240 --> 00:20:22.240
So I think that really is the core.
00:20:22.400 --> 00:20:33.359
And I used to teach uh cooking classes in people's homes, and I would be shocked at like people have these like little cutting boards and little knives, and I'm like, that is so inefficient, and you're never gonna like even growing up.
00:20:33.440 --> 00:20:40.960
I remember my mom like with this little knife, and I'm like, it's just so much faster if you can get the nice and you know, keep it sharpened.
00:20:41.119 --> 00:20:43.279
I sharpen mine, you know, a few times a year.
00:20:43.359 --> 00:20:44.160
It makes a big difference.
00:20:44.319 --> 00:20:47.839
You can tell once your knife gets dull, it's just it's it slows you down.
00:20:48.079 --> 00:20:51.359
So um that really is like my key one.
00:20:51.440 --> 00:20:57.119
Um, from there, you know, I don't recommend a lot of like fancy gadgets or like gadgets only have like one purpose.
00:20:57.359 --> 00:21:02.559
Depending on your timing and schedule, a nice crock pot or instant pot can be really nice.
00:21:02.720 --> 00:21:04.319
It just kind of depends if you need that.
00:21:04.480 --> 00:21:11.359
Like for us, I found on Sundays because we go to church, it's like Sunday morning I put in the crock because we get home at 12:30 and we usually eat at 12.
00:21:11.440 --> 00:21:13.279
So it has to be ready when we get home.
00:21:13.440 --> 00:21:17.680
So every Sunday I do something in the crock pot just um for ease.
00:21:17.839 --> 00:21:20.960
So, you know, part of it kind of depends too on what you need.
00:21:21.119 --> 00:21:40.079
Yeah, we've been trying to lean into some more recipes with this the slow cooker crock pot because yeah, not my kids are in this entering sport age era and we are like always leaving for a practice or game or something at like the five, 5:30 time, and you're like, oh, what do we do with dinner?
00:21:40.240 --> 00:21:47.359
And so I'm like, I need to hunt down some more recipes for that kind of purpose because it is it's so nice.
00:21:47.440 --> 00:21:52.960
Then everybody can just kind of eat in the shifts because that's just the reality we're in at the moment or entering into.
00:21:53.119 --> 00:21:54.799
And yeah, I I like that idea too.
00:21:54.880 --> 00:21:57.680
And the knife thing, like, oh, you do not want to see my knives.
00:21:57.759 --> 00:21:58.480
My knives are bad.
00:21:58.559 --> 00:21:59.599
I and I'm feeling like, oh.
00:22:00.160 --> 00:22:01.359
Okay, this is my nudge.
00:22:01.440 --> 00:22:04.799
I need to go either sharpen or believe me, you are not alone.
00:22:04.880 --> 00:22:07.359
It's most I, you know, I went to culinary school.
00:22:07.519 --> 00:22:15.200
So like it's, you know, I I have a different kind of experience with that, but I do try and put that out there to anyone that.
00:22:15.759 --> 00:22:17.440
Oh my gosh, so tricky.
00:22:17.680 --> 00:22:32.000
Um, you know, with the meal plans too, like I know so many people can be either either they're picky, like your kids are really picky, or maybe somebody is doing like, I don't know, a different kind of diet for whatever purposes, or they can't have gluten or whatever.
00:22:32.240 --> 00:22:35.759
Can you speak to like how how do you kind of balance all that?
00:22:35.839 --> 00:22:42.720
Like if you're trying to have, you know, those family dinners, yet everybody has different dietary needs.
00:22:42.880 --> 00:22:45.119
Um, any suggestions or what do we do?
00:22:45.359 --> 00:22:49.519
Yeah, I I think it some of it depends on like who has the dietary needs and what age.
00:22:49.680 --> 00:22:56.559
But one thing that's always helpful, and this is what I do when I entertain, is I always do like a mix and match, like build your own, right?
00:22:56.640 --> 00:22:57.440
Like a bowl.
00:22:57.519 --> 00:23:01.599
Like bowls are really, you know, like there's rice, you could do beans, a protein.
00:23:01.680 --> 00:23:04.960
So if you're vegetarian, then if you're paleo, you know, it's like all the different things.
00:23:05.039 --> 00:23:07.200
Like you can add the dairy or hold the dairy.
00:23:07.359 --> 00:23:12.960
Um, so you know, I think building your own and like something that's not already like completely put together is really helpful.
00:23:13.119 --> 00:23:26.240
In terms of like families, if there's dietary restrictions, if it's a kid, as much as possible, like if it's something like dairy, like it is nice to have the whole family just do it, you know, because that can make it trickier if like other people.
00:23:26.319 --> 00:23:33.920
So I think it, you know, but if it's, I don't know, if it's the mom and you don't mind that everyone else is like putting cheese on their tacos, then I wouldn't worry so much about that.
00:23:34.079 --> 00:23:40.960
Um, but the other thing with um food allergies and tolerances, so all of our plans are except for one, but they're all gluten-free.
00:23:41.039 --> 00:23:41.920
I'm gluten-free.
00:23:42.000 --> 00:23:44.079
So, you know, it's kind of how I created them.
00:23:44.400 --> 00:23:48.960
But anytime there's a restriction, I say always focus on what you can eat, right?
00:23:49.039 --> 00:23:55.519
Like there's so many, like you would look at our plans and read this like list of you know, hundreds of thousands of recipes that we've had over the years.
00:23:55.599 --> 00:23:58.720
And there's not one where you'd be like, oh my gosh, that's like a gluten-free thing.
00:23:58.799 --> 00:24:00.240
You know, like it's just like a normal food.
00:24:00.319 --> 00:24:09.920
Like if you focus on what you can eat and don't focus, like sometimes when people have to remove something, they get hyper-focused on that thing and finding a replacement for that thing.
00:24:10.000 --> 00:24:12.319
Like, oh, let's make all these replacement cheeses.
00:24:12.480 --> 00:24:17.599
Let's just make like a nice like meal that doesn't require cheese, you know.
00:24:17.920 --> 00:24:20.160
So yeah, that's a good point too.
00:24:20.240 --> 00:24:29.519
And and like you said, it probably depends a little on if it's like a child and how they're gonna interpret if somebody else is eating that and they can't, or yeah, especially in the home.
00:24:29.680 --> 00:24:31.680
I mean, when you go out, you know, there's other things.
00:24:31.759 --> 00:24:38.400
But yeah, in the home, I think it's especially in the beginning, it's good to just kind of everyone follow along if they can.
00:24:38.640 --> 00:24:39.519
Yeah, yeah, yeah.
00:24:39.680 --> 00:24:41.440
You know, and I found it helpful too.
00:24:41.519 --> 00:24:51.200
And you can tell me if this is helpful for you, but sometimes like when I meal plan, like we do typically, like I said, have like certain days that we tend to have that same meal, like tacos or whatever.
00:24:51.440 --> 00:24:56.400
But you know, now every week can be a little different with after school activities and such.
00:24:56.480 --> 00:24:59.039
And so we've kind of, I don't know, we're just very fluid.
00:24:59.119 --> 00:25:17.440
It's like I have what we need for what we're gonna eat at some point this week, but I know that we can flex days and I really try to make those really easy, quick meals or slow cookers on days where we're just out the door, we're really busy, or I don't have time to really cook, you know, take the hour to cook dinner or whatever.
00:25:17.839 --> 00:25:20.640
Um you do that too, is that I am more that way.
00:25:20.799 --> 00:25:21.519
Yes, I know.
00:25:21.599 --> 00:25:27.759
I like I say, like assign a dinner to and I'll like I have a little um board that I'll write it on with the dry erase.
00:25:28.079 --> 00:25:31.200
I'm I'm like kind of in the middle when it comes to rule breaker or not.
00:25:31.359 --> 00:25:34.559
Some people are big roll breakers, so it kind of depends on your personality.
00:25:34.799 --> 00:25:41.200
But yeah, I like to look at it and be like, oh, I said that Tuesday we were gonna do the fish, but like I'm really feeling this tonight.
00:25:41.279 --> 00:25:43.119
So like I'm gonna I switch it up.
00:25:43.359 --> 00:25:43.839
Yeah, yeah.
00:25:43.920 --> 00:25:44.400
Oh my gosh.
00:25:44.480 --> 00:25:44.640
Yeah.
00:25:44.880 --> 00:25:45.519
Like it's there.
00:25:45.599 --> 00:25:49.200
Um, and if you like, you know, I do like meal preps with like, you know, some of the chopping scents.
00:25:49.440 --> 00:25:54.799
As long as it's there and ready, then you can look at the list and be like, okay, I'm gonna swap this out, but at least like it's there.
00:25:54.880 --> 00:25:56.720
You have the ingredients, you have the plan.
00:25:56.880 --> 00:26:02.799
The main key is really just making sure you get to dinner time and it's like, okay, I don't have to think about it.
00:26:02.960 --> 00:26:07.039
When you have to think about it, that's where you run into the issues of like, I'm just gonna do takeout.
00:26:07.119 --> 00:26:08.079
That's when it becomes hard.
00:26:08.160 --> 00:26:10.079
And at the end of the day, no one wants hard.
00:26:10.160 --> 00:26:15.759
So the thing that meal planning is doing is it's like setting you up to where that time is like, oh, I don't have to think about it.
00:26:16.000 --> 00:26:17.680
My past self set me up.
00:26:17.839 --> 00:26:19.039
I got this, you know?
00:26:19.359 --> 00:26:19.680
Yeah.
00:26:19.839 --> 00:26:20.079
Yeah.
00:26:20.240 --> 00:26:24.880
Let's talk a little bit about the meal prepping because I feel like even for myself, that's kind of where I get stuck.
00:26:24.960 --> 00:26:26.400
It's like I've done all this good work.
00:26:26.559 --> 00:26:29.680
I have we have a plan, we have all the food from the grocery store.
00:26:29.920 --> 00:26:34.160
And then maybe I don't take that time initially to really prep the food.
00:26:34.319 --> 00:26:41.359
What kind of foods can we prep maybe like ahead of time, you know, whether it's fruit, veggies, meat, whatever.
00:26:41.519 --> 00:26:45.759
And then what foods are like, oh, you really should prep it like right before you cook it.
00:26:45.920 --> 00:26:46.240
Yeah.
00:26:46.559 --> 00:26:46.799
Yeah.
00:26:46.960 --> 00:26:53.680
I mean, the big one that I like to do is chopping the vegetables because, like I said, if they're chopped when you get to dinner, you've kind of got no excuses.
00:26:53.759 --> 00:26:58.160
Like you're gonna want to use your like, oh my gosh, I spent all this time like chopping those Brussels sprouts.
00:26:58.240 --> 00:27:00.000
I want to eat, like, they are not going to waste.
00:27:00.079 --> 00:27:01.759
Like I already like worked on this.
00:27:01.920 --> 00:27:03.279
So, and the vegetables too.
00:27:03.359 --> 00:27:05.759
There's the like, you know, batching efficiencies, right?
00:27:05.839 --> 00:27:13.119
So it's like if you're only pulling out that knife and cutting board, and it doesn't have to be like one day a week, it could be like, okay, I do half of it on, you know, Monday.
00:27:13.200 --> 00:27:14.720
I kind of pair it with like a meal.
00:27:14.880 --> 00:27:19.440
So like Monday night as I'm making dinner, I just chop the veggies for Tuesday and Wednesday.
00:27:19.519 --> 00:27:24.240
And then Thursday at lunch, I just chop, you know, so you can kind of like squeeze it in there.
00:27:24.400 --> 00:27:25.759
Um, so that's a good one.
00:27:25.839 --> 00:27:30.000
And then sauces and dressings and marinades, those are really good ones.
00:27:30.160 --> 00:27:35.359
Those are also good ones because you can usually like double them and use them in a few places, right?
00:27:35.519 --> 00:27:42.640
Like a balsamic dressing, you can make it, use it for a salad one night, and then the next night use it as a marinade.
00:27:42.799 --> 00:27:48.240
So, you know, it's like you kind of have to do the work once, but you get multi multiple, you know, uses out of it.
00:27:48.480 --> 00:27:48.640
Yeah.
00:27:48.720 --> 00:28:00.559
And like that would be such a great tip, too, of just like how could you use the same veggies or the same dressing, or like how could you like do it a couple of times so you're not doing multiple different meals, right?
00:28:00.720 --> 00:28:00.960
Yes.
00:28:01.039 --> 00:28:02.640
Like just thinking ahead a little bit more.
00:28:02.880 --> 00:28:03.279
Mm-hmm.
00:28:03.359 --> 00:28:03.680
Mm-hmm.
00:28:03.839 --> 00:28:06.799
And it just, yeah, just again, back to that efficiency piece.
00:28:06.880 --> 00:28:20.160
I really like to make it efficient, but then also like you're sitting down and you're having this like fresh, new, fun meal every night that's actually, you know, like sure, you could just like make the same thing every night, but you know, I want, I like to enjoy my food.
00:28:20.240 --> 00:28:22.160
I want my family to enjoy it, you know.
00:28:22.240 --> 00:28:25.200
It's it should be a pleasurable experience, in my opinion.
00:28:25.519 --> 00:28:25.839
Yeah.
00:28:26.079 --> 00:28:29.200
You know, random question on meal planning.
00:28:29.359 --> 00:28:39.119
But you know, when it when you're doing fruit, I feel like there's a lot of mixed confusion on if you should wash them right before or if you can wash them like earlier.
00:28:39.279 --> 00:28:40.960
Can you speak to your experience?
00:28:41.119 --> 00:28:42.720
Like what do we do with fruit?
00:28:42.799 --> 00:28:46.079
Because I feel like that would be a great time saver to prep everything.
00:28:46.240 --> 00:28:50.880
But then I have found it it doesn't seem to last very well in my fridge if I pre-wash.
00:28:51.200 --> 00:28:51.920
Yeah, I know.
00:28:52.079 --> 00:28:56.559
I actually, and I do see people that do that where they like prep all their fruit for the week.
00:28:56.880 --> 00:28:58.640
Fruit, I more do in the moment.
00:28:58.720 --> 00:29:02.880
And I don't know, like fruit for us is like what we use as a snack, like a nighttime snack.
00:29:02.960 --> 00:29:04.480
And so it's really not that hard.
00:29:04.640 --> 00:29:05.759
Like the kids kind of help with it.
00:29:05.839 --> 00:29:07.920
So I don't feel like it, and they're always gonna want to eat it.
00:29:08.000 --> 00:29:10.640
So it's like by not prepping it, they're not gonna not eat fruit.
00:29:10.720 --> 00:29:12.640
Like that's the thing they're always looking forward to.
00:29:12.880 --> 00:29:20.559
So yeah, I don't do, and we, you know, we do a lot of like apples, which yeah, you could, but again, like at night we don't need to save five minutes.
00:29:20.720 --> 00:29:22.880
So yeah, that's not the pinch time.
00:29:23.039 --> 00:29:34.720
Like, if it was something though, for like if I was gonna do a like a strawberry salad for dinner, maybe I would chop the strawberries in advance because at dinner, maybe like it would help if I didn't have to sit there and like chop the strawberries.
00:29:34.880 --> 00:29:41.440
So yeah, I don't do a lot of like pre I and I have wondered that on the pre-washing of the fruits, but I do feel like sometimes they go bad.
00:29:41.599 --> 00:29:42.559
So I don't yeah.
00:29:42.720 --> 00:29:48.079
Well, and it's so I feel like that one's just like some people swear by it and other people are the opposite.
00:29:48.160 --> 00:29:49.119
So then you're like, I don't know.
00:29:49.200 --> 00:29:50.480
I'm like, I don't know what to do.
00:29:50.559 --> 00:29:51.519
What do I do?
00:29:51.759 --> 00:29:56.000
Um, but yeah, it sounds like maybe just do what we're doing and just wash them right beforehand.
00:29:56.480 --> 00:30:07.519
No, I mean, and but the vegetables, I will say vegetables, like anything because you asked earlier, like what doesn't potatoes is one that you do need to like soak in water, but other than that, like a lot of vegetables and they'll be good for like a week.
00:30:07.599 --> 00:30:18.160
So, like chopped carrots, you know, even like zucchini, a lot of different, you know, cucumbers, tomatoes, as things, onions, you can chop those and they're good for you know, quite a while.
00:30:18.400 --> 00:30:18.640
Yeah.
00:30:18.799 --> 00:30:20.799
So it's like three to five days.
00:30:25.839 --> 00:30:32.400
As a mom, I'm always looking for skincare that's not only effective, but safe for me and my family.
00:30:32.640 --> 00:30:34.480
That's why I love Oliveda.
00:30:34.799 --> 00:30:44.079
Their products harness the power of the wild olive tree using pure olive leaf cell elixirs to nourish your skin with natural, toxin-free ingredients.
00:30:44.240 --> 00:30:49.440
No parabens, no artificial fragrances, just clean organic goodness.
00:30:49.680 --> 00:30:52.079
What makes Oliveda even more special?
00:30:52.240 --> 00:30:54.480
They're pioneers in waterless beauty.
00:30:54.640 --> 00:31:00.400
And instead of using water as a filler, they invest it in building wells for communities in Africa.
00:31:00.640 --> 00:31:05.200
So while you're treating your skin, you're also making a real difference in the world.
00:31:05.519 --> 00:31:15.519
So if you're ready to elevate your skincare routine with purpose, use the link in the show notes to take a two-minute quiz to get the exact products tailored for your skincare needs.
00:31:21.839 --> 00:31:28.160
Any like um other tips about meal planning that we haven't kind of discussed already that would be helpful?
00:31:28.400 --> 00:31:32.799
Um, you know, I think some of it just kind of going back to what we talked about in the beginning.
00:31:32.960 --> 00:31:36.720
I think one of the keys, you know, it's like figuring out how to make it a habit.
00:31:36.880 --> 00:31:44.000
And one thing that I like to kind of help people with initially in the beginning, because it's like, how do I just like start doing it?
00:31:44.240 --> 00:31:49.759
And I think part of it is just like figuring out in your mind, like, one, why is it important to you?
00:31:49.920 --> 00:31:51.279
You know, why is it important?
00:31:51.519 --> 00:31:52.559
Is it important to you, right?
00:31:52.640 --> 00:31:56.000
Like, is it important to you to sit down with your family and have a meal?
00:31:56.319 --> 00:32:06.640
And if it is, then I would say that first week that you do it, really like appreciate it as you sit down, be like, oh my gosh, I'm so glad I planned out the meals.
00:32:06.720 --> 00:32:09.519
Like I'm sitting down with my kids, I'm not up running around.
00:32:09.680 --> 00:32:11.599
Like, look, we're asking how the day was.
00:32:11.759 --> 00:32:14.319
Like, really appreciate how it works.
00:32:14.400 --> 00:32:18.880
And so then that way the next week you have that motivation and been like, oh, this week was so nice.
00:32:19.039 --> 00:32:21.279
Like, I really want to do that again next week.
00:32:21.440 --> 00:32:28.000
So I think that can really help create that rhythm in your life when you're thinking through and being intentional with it.
00:32:28.240 --> 00:32:30.319
Yeah, that's that's a really good point too.
00:32:30.400 --> 00:32:39.359
Like having the why and like making it personal to you, not just like what you know, Allison says or what Elizabeth says, you know, but to you, like personally, yeah.
00:32:39.519 --> 00:32:39.680
Yeah.
00:32:39.759 --> 00:32:43.279
I mean, because to me it's like, yes, the health portion is great.
00:32:43.359 --> 00:32:44.559
I want my kids to eat healthy.
00:32:44.640 --> 00:32:52.079
I want, you know, to enjoy our food, but also like just as a family unit, like that is the most important time of our day.
00:32:52.160 --> 00:32:56.400
Like that is when we sit down, that is when we connect, that is when we are a family, you know?
00:32:56.559 --> 00:33:02.400
And so for me, it's like about a lot of things, but like just that connection piece is huge for me.
00:33:02.559 --> 00:33:06.319
So I always try and remind myself that when I'm caught up in the hecticness.
00:33:06.400 --> 00:33:13.759
And yeah, I get the same way of like, okay, I said I was gonna do the groceries or do the list now or the groceries, and it's like I've got them, you know, it's a lot.
00:33:14.000 --> 00:33:16.000
Yeah, it it adds up real fast.
00:33:16.240 --> 00:33:16.720
Yes.
00:33:16.960 --> 00:33:17.759
Oh my gosh.
00:33:17.920 --> 00:33:19.759
Um, well, this has been super helpful.
00:33:19.839 --> 00:33:24.880
I'm hoping that so many people are gonna get a lot of tips, just like I have, especially about my knives.
00:33:24.960 --> 00:33:26.799
I'm gonna go look at them right after this.
00:33:26.960 --> 00:33:29.599
Um, but tell everybody where can they find you?
00:33:29.680 --> 00:33:32.319
How could they get maybe some of the resources you have?
00:33:32.559 --> 00:33:32.799
Yeah.
00:33:32.960 --> 00:33:34.799
So the website is Prep Dish.
00:33:34.960 --> 00:33:36.799
Um, I set up a two-week free trial.
00:33:36.880 --> 00:33:45.440
So if people want to try the meal plans, sometimes I see even if you're doing it on your own, you can always try them just to kind of see how we've done it to get ideas on how to do it yourself.
00:33:45.519 --> 00:33:51.519
Um, it's prepdish.com slash motherhood, and it'll be 14 days free to try it out.
00:33:51.680 --> 00:33:54.000
Um, I'm at Prep Dish on Instagram.
00:33:54.079 --> 00:34:04.880
Oh, and I have a podcast, Meal Prep Monday, where I talk meal planning, meal prep, but also motherhood, and I kind of go on off on tangents and stuff, but amazing.
00:34:04.960 --> 00:34:11.679
Oh my gosh, that'll be so awesome for anybody who's like, I just need some help to start with the meal planning and get the ball rolling.
00:34:11.840 --> 00:34:13.199
I think that's amazing.
00:34:13.280 --> 00:34:18.400
Um, so definitely go check out Allison's website and do the two-week free trial.
00:34:18.559 --> 00:34:27.280
And yeah, the podcast would be an amazing resource too, obviously, because she's gonna go into all kinds of things about meal prepping and food and all of that.
00:34:27.440 --> 00:34:31.119
So um, I'll make sure all of those links are included in the show notes.
00:34:31.199 --> 00:34:37.119
And Allison, just thank you so much for being here and like sharing all of your tips and tricks about meal planning.
00:34:37.280 --> 00:34:37.920
Super helpful.
00:34:38.159 --> 00:34:39.199
Yeah, thanks for having me.
00:34:39.280 --> 00:34:40.559
This was a lot of fun.
00:34:41.440 --> 00:34:48.800
Thank you so much for joining me today, and I hope this episode really brought so much value to your experience in motherhood.
00:34:48.960 --> 00:34:55.920
Please take a minute to rate and review this podcast and make sure that you're subscribed so you don't miss the next new episode.
00:34:56.239 --> 00:34:59.840
Until next time, go experience motherhood.
00:35:06.559 --> 00:35:12.079
The Experienced Motherhood Podcast is for informational and educational purposes only.
00:35:12.400 --> 00:35:18.800
Nothing shared on this podcast should be considered clinical advice or a substitute for individualized mental health care.
00:35:19.199 --> 00:35:25.840
Although I am a licensed professional clinical counselor, this podcast does not establish a therapeutic relationship.
00:35:26.159 --> 00:35:30.880
If you're needing support, please reach out to a qualified mental health provider near you.
00:35:31.119 --> 00:35:37.840
If you're in crisis, contact your local emergency services or the 988 Suicide in Crisis Lifelink.
