On Episode 21 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down and do something they've never done before on the podcast...say goodbye for now. After over five years of podcasting, the sister-cohosts are putting away their mics with both great sadness (because endings are hard), but also great joy and excitement (because new beginnings are beautiful!). Listen in as they dig into what the Mama Bear Dares / Perfectors podcast community has meant to them, the changing "podscape," and life's next steps. This goodbye is one filled with deep gratitude and great confidence that those who have listened over the years will continue to be love-spreaders, peace-makers, truth-tellers, justice-seekers and perfectors of what is right and good for all! 

On Episode 21 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down and do something they've never done before on the podcast...say goodbye for now. After over five years of podcasting, the sister-cohosts are putting away their mics with both great sadness (because endings are hard), but also great joy and excitement (because new beginnings are beautiful!). Listen in as they dig into what the Mama Bear Dares / Perfectors podcast community has meant to them, the changing "podscape," and life's next steps. This goodbye is one filled with deep gratitude and great confidence that those who have listened over the years will continue to be love-spreaders, peace-makers, truth-tellers, justice-seekers and perfectors of what is right and good for all!

Episode 21: A Good Bye

Sarah Audelo

On Episode 20 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Sarah Audelo, the executive director of The Alliance for Youth Action, a nationwide network of organizations building political power of young people and the premier youth vote vehicle in the United States. The women speak enthusiastically about the hope and energy of Generation Z and the ways in which we all can develop talent in our youth and empower and support them as they spend their energy on the ground. If you’re looking for a hopeful and joyful conversation, this is the episode for you! For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors website.

On Episode 20 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Sarah Audelo, the executive director of The Alliance for Youth Action, a nationwide network of organizations building political power of young people and the premier youth vote vehicle in the United States. The women speak enthusiastically about the hope and energy of Generation Z and the ways in which we all can develop talent in our youth and empower and support them as they spend their energy on the ground. If you’re looking for a hopeful and joyful conversation, this is the episode for you! <a href="https://www.theperfectors.com/listen" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors website.</a>

Episode 20: Perfector of Youth Development Sarah Audelo

On Episode 19 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about the importance of nuance in examining headlines. They zero in on the perceived “labor shortage” and look at the issue with a nod to nuance, encouraging listeners to apply this lens to everything they consume. The truth is always complicated and, as Perfectors, the co-hosts encourage listeners to keep a nuanced view of the lives we live. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors' website.

On Episode 19 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about the importance of nuance in examining headlines. They zero in on the perceived “labor shortage” and look at the issue with a nod to nuance, encouraging listeners to apply this lens to everything they consume. The truth is always complicated and, as Perfectors, the co-hosts encourage listeners to keep a nuanced view of the lives we live. For complete Show Notes, visit <a href="https://www.theperfectors.com/listen" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Perfectors' website</a>.

Episode 19: The Breakdown (Nuance)

Laura Packard

On Episode 18 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Laura Packard, a health care activist and political commentator. She is the founder of Health Care Voices, a non-profit grassroots organization for adults with serious medical conditions and the Executive Director of Get America Covered, a group that promotes increased health coverage. For Laura, her work is personal. As she was fighting her own battle with cancer, she was also fighting her own U.S. Senator and President to keep her health insurance. She shares her wisdom, her knowledge, and her advocacy in a fantastic interview that will inspire listeners and give them a better understanding of medical coverage in America. For complete Show Notes, visit the Perfectors website.

On Episode 18 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Laura Packard, a health care activist and political commentator. She is the founder of Health Care Voices, a non-profit grassroots organization for adults with serious medical conditions and the Executive Director of Get America Covered, a group that promotes increased health coverage. For Laura, her work is personal. As she was fighting her own battle with cancer, she was also fighting her own U.S. Senator and President to keep her health insurance. She shares her wisdom, her knowledge, and her advocacy in a fantastic interview that will inspire listeners and give them a better understanding of medical coverage in America. <a href="https://www.theperfectors.com/listen" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">For complete Show Notes, visit the Perfectors website.</a>

Episode 18: Perfector of Healthcare Advocacy Laura Packard

Megan Goldin

On Episode 17 of the Perfector’s Podcast, Tesi sits down with Australian author Megan Goldin to discuss her fantastic book The Night Swim and life as a writer during quarantine. Megan brings a fascinating perspective as the women discuss the state of journalism and the state of democracy across the globe during this time of pandemic. They dive into topics that Megan’s book bring up, such as the treatment of sexual assault victims in the justice system, the #MeToo movement, the power of perspective, and the power of fiction to explore complex systems of power. See more on our website.

On Episode 17 of the Perfector’s Podcast, Tesi sits down with Australian author Megan Goldin to discuss her fantastic book The Night Swim and life as a writer during quarantine. Megan brings a fascinating perspective as the women discuss the state of journalism and the state of democracy across the globe during this time of pandemic. They dive into topics that Megan’s book bring up, such as the treatment of sexual assault victims in the justice system, the #MeToo movement, the power of perspective, and the power of fiction to explore complex systems of power. See more <a href="https://www.theperfectors.com/listen" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">on our website</a>.

Episode 17: Perfector of Fiction Megan Goldin

On Episode 16 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss the phenomenon of “Cancel Culture” … what it is, why it’s a hot topic, and what it means for people hoping to engage their voice in social and racial justice. It’s a candid conversation with examples of missteps and subsequent apologies, as well as a bit of guidance of how to live and love within “cancel culture” 2021. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfector's website.

On Episode 16 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie discuss the phenomenon of “Cancel Culture” … what it is, why it’s a hot topic, and what it means for people hoping to engage their voice in social and racial justice. It’s a candid conversation with examples of missteps and subsequent apologies, as well as a bit of guidance of how to live and love within “cancel culture” 2021. For complete Show Notes, visit <a href="https://www.theperfectors.com/listen" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Perfector's website</a>.

Episode 16: The Breakdown (Cancel Culture & the Golden Rule)

Michelle Nunn

On Episode 15 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Michelle Nunn, president and CEO of CARE USA, a community-based nonprofit working around the world to improve basic education, increase access to quality healthcare, and expand economic opportunity for all. The women talk about the importance of international aid and humanitarian development, the challenges and joys of defeating poverty and achieving justice, and the endeavor of encouraging hope, dignity, and security for all. Also discussed is what it takes to be a great leader and collaborator. The conversation is informative and motivating. Listen in!

On Episode 15 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi sits down with Michelle Nunn, president and CEO of CARE USA, a community-based nonprofit working around the world to improve basic education, increase access to quality healthcare, and expand economic opportunity for all. The women talk about the importance of international aid and humanitarian development, the challenges and joys of defeating poverty and achieving justice, and the endeavor of encouraging hope, dignity, and security for all. Also discussed is what it takes to be a great leader and collaborator. The conversation is informative and motivating. Listen in!

Episode 15: Perfector of Possibility Michelle Nunn

On Episode 14 of The Perfectors Podcast, in light of the continued shootings of Black men at the hands of the police, Tesi and Leslie breakdown the news of the week. As the nation hangs on for the verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin for the dealth of George Floyd, the women discuss the power of empathy, the role of white women in a world where Black men call out for their mothers at the brink of death, and the movement to “defund the police." For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors website.

On Episode 14 of The Perfectors Podcast, in light of the continued shootings of Black men at the hands of the police, Tesi and Leslie breakdown the news of the week. As the nation hangs on for the verdict in the trial of Derek Chauvin for the dealth of George Floyd, the women discuss the power of empathy, the role of white women in a world where Black men call out for their mothers at the brink of death, and the movement to “defund the police." For complete Show Notes, visit <a href="https://www.theperfectors.com/listen" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Perfectors website</a>.

Episode 14: The Breakdown (The Heartbreak of More Violence)

Michelle Ciulla Lipkin

On Episode 13 of The Perfector’s Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Michelle Ciulla Lipkin, the executive director of NAMLE, a media literacy education association working to help people of all ages across the globe access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act using all forms of communication available to them. The women talk about WHY media literacy is crucial to a functioning society and HOW to develop the skills we need to be a responsible consumer (and creator) of the media that surrounds us. It’s a fascinating and timely conversation about responsibility, empathy, and meaning. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfector's website.

On Episode 13 of The Perfector’s Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Michelle Ciulla Lipkin, the executive director of NAMLE, a media literacy education association working to help people of all ages across the globe access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act using all forms of communication available to them. The women talk about WHY media literacy is crucial to a functioning society and HOW to develop the skills we need to be a responsible consumer (and creator) of the media that surrounds us. It’s a fascinating and timely conversation about responsibility, empathy, and meaning. For complete Show Notes, visit <a href="https://www.theperfectors.com/listen" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Perfector's website</a>.

Episode 13: Perfector of Media Literacy Michelle Ciulla Lipkin

On Episode 12 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie lament American gun culture. The women go to back to basics with facts and vocabulary surrounding guns, dispel common myths and misconceptions, equip listeners with concise arguments, and bring up tangible steps for listeners to deal with the state we find ourselves...again. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors at www.theperfectors.com.

On Episode 12 of The Perfectors Podcast, Tesi and Leslie lament American gun culture. The women go to back to basics with facts and vocabulary surrounding guns, dispel common myths and misconceptions, equip listeners with concise arguments, and bring up tangible steps for listeners to deal with the state we find ourselves...again. For complete Show Notes, visit The Perfectors at <a href="https://www.theperfectors.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.theperfectors.com</a>.

Episode 12: The Breakdown (A Lamentation of Gun Culture...Again)

We believe the world needs people who are determined to see love, compassion and justice win. We interview the perfectors doing just that. #perfectors (formerly the Mama Bear Dares Podcast)

I enjoy this podcast! Funny and and down to earth

Awesome and down to earth

This is the podcast I listen to as soon as a new one comes out.

So good

The Perfectors

On Episode 140 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hostesses Leslie and Tesi sit down and discuss a powerful TED Talk given by mama bear Julie Lythcott-Haims that left them both nodding their heads with great enthusiasm. The talk, entitled How to Raise Successful Kids Without Over Parenting, is less than 10 minutes long but drives home something that both hosts believe in their core: Our kids need to be loved and they need to do chores. Tesi and Leslie spend the episode celebrating and dissecting Lythcott-Haims theory and strengthening the message with their own research and experience. They end with a brand-new little segment they aptly titled CHORES OUR KIDS DO THAT DRIVE US RIGHT UP TO INSANE BUT WE LET EM DO IT BECAUSE #INDEPENDENCE. We think you'll love it! For complete Show Notes, visit the MBD  website!

On Episode 140 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hostesses Leslie and Tesi sit down and discuss a powerful TED Talk given by mama bear Julie Lythcott-Haims that left them both nodding their heads with great enthusiasm. The talk, entitled How to Raise Successful Kids Without Over Parenting, is less than 10 minutes long but drives home something that both hosts believe in their core: Our kids need to be loved and they need to do chores. Tesi and Leslie spend the episode celebrating and dissecting Lythcott-Haims theory and strengthening the message with their own research and experience. They end with a brand-new little segment they aptly titled CHORES OUR KIDS DO THAT DRIVE US RIGHT UP TO INSANE BUT WE LET EM DO IT BECAUSE #INDEPENDENCE. We think you'll love it! For complete Show Notes, visit the MBD <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/listen-4-91-/2017/12/3/episode-140-love-chores" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> website</a>!

Episode 140: Love & Chores

There’s a perception in our culture that if we face obstacles, the world is warning us that we are on the wrong path...or that if an idea terrifies us, it’s probably not worth doing. But on today’s podcast, Jody Landers proves that Mama Bears are born when we lean into fear and do what scares us. If anyone knows about doing big things in life despite being terrified, it’s Jody. With three healthy young boys already part of their brood, Jody and her husband Andy delivered Quincy. Born with a rare birth defect, Quincy spent weeks in the hospital and months in a body cast. It was in that hospital room that Jody’s Mama Bear was born. With the tenacity she found in that hospital room, Jody went on to adopt twins from Sierra Leone, organize a handful of moms to fill backpacks for foster care children, and raise over a half million dollars for clean water. A few years after that she and Becky Straw founded The Adventure Project from her home with her six children underfoot. Most recently Jody dove into a Kickstarter campaign to help launch her husband's musical career from a cult-like following to a national audience. Jody was terrified of doing all of these things—whether she entered willingly or was forced into them—but she did them anyway. A lesson to our Mama Bear community is to stop running from fear and dare to “do it scared.” A special thank you to Andrew Landers and Mainstreet Struggleville for our music for this episode. Learn more about Andy and download his extraordinary music at

Episode 3: Doing it Scared

On Episode 134 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi talk about the recent social media phenomenon #metoo and what it means for them as women, as people in relationship with men, and as mothers. They sift through the collective cultural response, talk about strategies to use to educate their tweens and teens, how to show up for suffering friends, and how to talk to the men in their lives about gender equality, harassment, and assault. Their deeply held belief that we can all do better once we know better is at the forefront of this episode and the two women hope listeners will listen and feel empowered by the conversations on "me too." For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

On Episode 134 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi talk about the recent social media phenomenon #metoo and what it means for them as women, as people in relationship with men, and as mothers. They sift through the collective cultural response, talk about strategies to use to educate their tweens and teens, how to show up for suffering friends, and how to talk to the men in their lives about gender equality, harassment, and assault. Their deeply held belief that we can all do better once we know better is at the forefront of this episode and the two women hope listeners will listen and feel empowered by the conversations on "me too." For complete Show Notes, visit <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.mamabeardarespodcast.com</a>.

Episode 134: The Birds, the Bees, and Beyond (#metoo)

Kara Haug

On Episode 116 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Kara Hoag, the founder of Grace Unbound, a resource for those seeking a comprehensive sexuality education that includes the integration of sexuality and theology and aims to wipe clean feelings of shame. The women acknowledge that God created sexual intimacy and celebrate the idea that the human body is beautiful and to be celebrated and enjoyed, and discuss the most effective ways to teach the next generation to engage in healthy and meaningful sexual activity. Through their playful and deeply honest conversation, the women discuss pleasure and the ways in which we can embrace our spiritual self and our sexual self in order to be the full, complete women we were created to be. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

On Episode 116 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down with Kara Hoag, the founder of <a href="http://www.graceunbound.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Grace Unbound</a>, a resource for those seeking a comprehensive sexuality education that includes the integration of sexuality and theology and aims to wipe clean feelings of shame. The women acknowledge that God created sexual intimacy and celebrate the idea that the human body is beautiful and to be celebrated and enjoyed, and discuss the most effective ways to teach the next generation to engage in healthy and meaningful sexual activity. Through their playful and deeply honest conversation, the women discuss pleasure and the ways in which we can embrace our spiritual self and our sexual self in order to be the full, complete women we were created to be. For complete Show Notes, visit <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.mamabeardarespodcast.com</a>.

Episode 116: Sex, God, & Politics with Kara Haug

"You have a bikini, you have a body. You have a bikini body." Can we get an amen? On Episode 117, Leslie and Tesi respond to a listener question about summertime, feeling comfortable in our bathing suits, and enjoying life in the bodies we were born in. The co-hosts discuss modesty, priorities, the culture we live in, and how it impacts the voice within our heads. They ask listeners to think about priorities and peel back the layers to bathing suit insecurities. What begins as a simple listener questions unfolds into a conversation about the culture we live in and a trained, thoughtful Mama Bear's response. Listen in and join the conversation online!

"You have a bikini, you have a body. You have a bikini body." Can we get an amen? On Episode 117, Leslie and Tesi respond to a listener question about summertime, feeling comfortable in our bathing suits, and enjoying life in the bodies we were born in. The co-hosts discuss modesty, priorities, the culture we live in, and how it impacts the voice within our heads. They ask listeners to think about priorities and peel back the layers to bathing suit insecurities. What begins as a simple listener questions unfolds into a conversation about the culture we live in and a trained, thoughtful Mama Bear's response. Listen in and join the conversation online!

Episode 117: Bikini Body

On Episode 128 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi continue the theme of talking about education in America. On this episode, they focus on the ways in which even the most progressive and earnest among us perpetuate segregation in our public schools. It's a tricky subject, but the hosts bring their hearts...and their hours of research...to the table in order to shed a bit more light on the subject. Drawing from personal experience and many, many fantastic articles and podcasts, Tesi and Leslie continue to encourage one another (and their listeners) to pay attention to systematic racism, publicly funded injustice, and the stories of the marginalized. In doing so, they endeavor to engage their Mama Bears on the path toward justice and equality in America. Show Notes are rich with links. Find them at www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

On Episode 128 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi continue the theme of talking about education in America. On this episode, they focus on the ways in which even the most progressive and earnest among us perpetuate segregation in our public schools. It's a tricky subject, but the hosts bring their hearts...and their hours of research...to the table in order to shed a bit more light on the subject. Drawing from personal experience and many, many fantastic articles and podcasts, Tesi and Leslie continue to encourage one another (and their listeners) to pay attention to systematic racism, publicly funded injustice, and the stories of the marginalized. In doing so, they endeavor to engage their Mama Bears on the path toward justice and equality in America. Show Notes are rich with links. Find them at <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodact.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.mamabeardarespodcast.com</a>.

Episode 128: The Privilege Pipeline

Moms are complex creatures with incredible depth and layers of complexity. Even though Tesi and Leslie, the hosts of this podcast, have known each other for 14 years each conversation reveals something new. Such are the joys of long friendship—it’s our oldest and dearest friends that we never run out of things to discuss over coffee, wine, or via Skype. On this Mama Bear Dares podcast we meet Tesi Klipsch. Tesi lives in Michigan with her husband Zach and five children—born to her by birth and through adoption. Tesi tells us about her interest in health, fitness, and helping others discover their personal best, as well as the challenges and joys of raising five children, three of them whom were adopted from Ethiopia. Always quick to laugh, Tesi and Leslie enjoy a purposeful conversation that introduces you to one of the Mama Bears behind the podcast. Link to Tesi’s personal blog at www.TesiKlipsch.com. Follow along as she explores mothering older children, and her unique take on current events and race in America. Mama Bears reading list: Jhumpa Lahiri: http://smile.amazon.com/Interpreter-Maladies-Jhumpa-Lahiri/dp/039592720X/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1456932914&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=jhumpa+lahiri The Desire Map:

Moms are complex creatures with incredible depth and layers of complexity. Even though Tesi and Leslie, the hosts of this podcast, have known each other for 14 years each conversation reveals something new. Such are the joys of long friendship—it’s our oldest and dearest friends that we never run out of things to discuss over coffee, wine, or via Skype. On this Mama Bear Dares podcast we meet Tesi Klipsch. Tesi lives in Michigan with her husband Zach and five children—born to her by birth and through adoption. Tesi tells us about her interest in health, fitness, and helping others discover their personal best, as well as the challenges and joys of raising five children, three of them whom were adopted from Ethiopia. Always quick to laugh, Tesi and Leslie enjoy a purposeful conversation that introduces you to one of the Mama Bears behind the podcast. Link to Tesi’s personal blog at <a href="http://www.TesiKlipsch.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.TesiKlipsch.com</a>. Follow along as she explores mothering older children, and her unique take on current events and race in America. Mama Bears reading list: Jhumpa Lahiri: <a href="http://smile.amazon.com/Interpreter-Maladies-Jhumpa-Lahiri/dp/039592720X/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1456932914&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=jhumpa+lahiri" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://smile.amazon.com/Interpreter-Maladies-Jhumpa-Lahiri/dp/039592720X/ref=sr_1_3?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1456932914&amp;sr=1-3&amp;keywords=jhumpa+lahiri</a> The Desire Map:

Episode 2: Meet the Hostess, Part II

On Episode 198 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Alyson Wild, a wise and brave woman who shares earned wisdom about self discovery, living the truth of your identity, and claiming your desires. Together, the three women discuss the power of words that comfort, words that broaden perspective, and the importance of representation in literature and life. It’s a beautiful conversation between curious women who seek understanding, compassion, and hope. For complete Show Notes, visit the  Mama Bear Dares website.

On Episode 198 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi sit down with Alyson Wild, a wise and brave woman who shares earned wisdom about self discovery, living the truth of your identity, and claiming your desires. Together, the three women discuss the power of words that comfort, words that broaden perspective, and the importance of representation in literature and life. It’s a beautiful conversation between curious women who seek understanding, compassion, and hope. For complete Show Notes, visit the <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/listen-4-91-/2019/1/14/episode-198-becoming-who-you-are-with-alyson-wild" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Mama Bear Dares website</a>.

Episode 198: Becoming Who You Are with Alyson Wild

On Episode 40 of Mama Bear Dares, the hosts talk about, well, sex. Tesi and Leslie—with the help of life coach Gervase Kolmos (Episode 27)—discuss the nature of sex and how it changes during pregnancy, after children, and with every single stage of life. The three women celebrate healthy partnerships, romantic love, and the joys of physical touch, all the while being honest about the challenges that parenting brings into the mix of a relationship. They candidly discuss tips and tricks to maintain a healthy sex life and discuss the topic as only girlfriends can. Listen in! For complete Show Notes and Links, visit our website!

Episode 38: The Horizontal Tango (Let's Talk About Sex)

Michele Cushatt

On Episode 110 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with Michele Cushatt, a wife, mother, and successful author, speaker, and woman unafraid to dig deep in order to uncover life's treasures. Michele's new book,  I  AM: A 60-day Journey to Knowing You Are Because of Who He Is, explores the soul-deep journey that individuals might embark upon when seeking to discover their true self and encourages women to uncover and embrace the beautiful and unique way that they were made and then cling to the discovery of their real, true self during moments of insecurity. Michele and Tesi speak candidly about the ways in which grave illness prompts big questions as Michele shares how a brutal bout with cancer changed her life and listeners will be inspired by a conversation filled with hard-earned wisdom and an abundance of hope.

On Episode 110 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi sits down with Michele Cushatt, a wife, mother, and successful author, speaker, and woman unafraid to dig deep in order to uncover life's treasures. Michele's new book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310339804/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=mywebsite0e3a-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=0310339804&amp;linkId=46ca8f62225425f6d01a2247e28d8dc7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> I</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0310339804/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=mywebsite0e3a-20&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;creativeASIN=0310339804&amp;linkId=46ca8f62225425f6d01a2247e28d8dc7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> AM: A 60-day Journey to Knowing You Are Because of Who He Is</a>, explores the soul-deep journey that individuals might embark upon when seeking to discover their true self and encourages women to uncover and embrace the beautiful and unique way that they were made and then cling to the discovery of their real, true self during moments of insecurity. Michele and Tesi speak candidly about the ways in which grave illness prompts big questions as Michele shares how a brutal bout with cancer changed her life and listeners will be inspired by a conversation filled with hard-earned wisdom and an abundance of hope.

Episode 110: Remembering What You're Worth with Michele Cushatt

On Episode 159 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi talk about the mysterious and thrilling responsibility of raising teenagers. As we've seen in the last six months, American teens are capable of organizing a worldwide march to end gun violence and yet also prone to staring at their screens for hours without any nourishment or personal contact. Teenagers are capable of tremendous amounts of love ... and slamming a door in your face. The women explore this topic with a few listener questions in mind: Why is parenting teenagers so isolating and lonely? What happens when you "love" your kid with all your heart, but you struggle to "like" them? As always, the sisters tackle these questions with great curiosity and do their best to reassure listeners with a down-to-earth exploration of the quest to know better and do better.  For complete Show Notes, check out the Mama Bear Dares website.

On Episode 159 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi talk about the mysterious and thrilling responsibility of raising teenagers. As we've seen in the last six months, American teens are capable of organizing a worldwide march to end gun violence and yet also prone to staring at their screens for hours without any nourishment or personal contact. Teenagers are capable of tremendous amounts of love ... and slamming a door in your face. The women explore this topic with a few listener questions in mind: Why is parenting teenagers so isolating and lonely? What happens when you "love" your kid with all your heart, but you struggle to "like" them? As always, the sisters tackle these questions with great curiosity and do their best to reassure listeners with a down-to-earth exploration of the quest to know better and do better. <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/listen-4-91-/2018/4/16/episode-159-parenting-teens-and-why-no-one-is-talking-about-it" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> For complete Show Notes, check out the Mama Bear Dares website.</a>

Episode 159: Parenting Teens (and why no one is talking about it)

On Episode 121 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie take a moment during the heart of summer to connect and catch up on a few topics that have been grabbing their attention. They answer a listener question about personal growth through podcasting and share the origin story of Mama Bear Dares, discuss an article about the importance of the language we use when talking to our sons, and discuss what's cooking from each of their homes. Listen in to this Mama Bear mini and let join the conversation online! Check out complete Show Notes on the Mama Bear Dares podcast website.

On Episode 121 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hosts Tesi and Leslie take a moment during the heart of summer to connect and catch up on a few topics that have been grabbing their attention. They answer a listener question about personal growth through podcasting and share the origin story of Mama Bear Dares, discuss an article about the importance of the language we use when talking to our sons, and discuss what's cooking from each of their homes. Listen in to this Mama Bear mini and let join the conversation online! Check out complete Show Notes on the <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Mama Bear Dares podcast website</a>.

Episode 121: Health, Hope, & How to Talk to Boys

On Episode 197 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down to rehash highlights from 2018, discuss the things they were thankful to live through, cast a personal and podcast vision for the New Year, and celebrate the dawn of a fresh page of the calendar. They discuss their favorite books and pop culture moments, laugh a lot, shake their fists a few times, and admit some hard truths. Ultimately, anyone listening will feel encouraged to live intentionally and be reminded that they can do the hardest things. For complete Show Notes,  visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

On Episode 197 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie sit down to rehash highlights from 2018, discuss the things they were thankful to live through, cast a personal and podcast vision for the New Year, and celebrate the dawn of a fresh page of the calendar. They discuss their favorite books and pop culture moments, laugh a lot, shake their fists a few times, and admit some hard truths. Ultimately, anyone listening will feel encouraged to live intentionally and be reminded that they can do the hardest things. For complete Show Notes, <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/listen-4-91-/2019/1/6/episode-197-heres-to-2019" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> visit the Mama Bear Dares website</a>.

Episode 197: You're Never Too Old To Do the Scary Stuff

On Episode 200 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about the Marie Kondo craze that has so many of us captivated and curious. In true Mama Bear fashion, they provide commentary on Kondo’s Mama Bear methods by acknowledging her sometimes counter-cultural method and her critique of gendered social norms and the excessive consumerism so often exercised in the Western world. The women praise Marie Kondo’s emphasis on gratitude and celebrate her quiet revolution of equality. With a small analysis of the “mental load” so many women share and talk of a little xenophobia thrown in for good measure, the women have a great time discussing the KonMarie method and the layers it entails.  Visit the Mama Bear website for complete Show Notes!

On Episode 200 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie talk about the Marie Kondo craze that has so many of us captivated and curious. In true Mama Bear fashion, they provide commentary on Kondo’s Mama Bear methods by acknowledging her sometimes counter-cultural method and her critique of gendered social norms and the excessive consumerism so often exercised in the Western world. The women praise Marie Kondo’s emphasis on gratitude and celebrate her quiet revolution of equality. With a small analysis of the “mental load” so many women share and talk of a little xenophobia thrown in for good measure, the women have a great time discussing the KonMarie method and the layers it entails. <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/listen-4-91-/2019/1/28/episode-200-marie-kondo-is-a-mama-bear" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Visit the Mama Bear website for complete Show Notes!</a>

Episode 200: Marie Kondo is a Mama Bear!

On Episode 157 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi take a hot minute to celebrate the sisterhood! The cultural landscape is changing for women—because of women—and the ladies take some time to feast on beauty of female friendship. They talk about the unique nature of healthy friendship and discuss the ways in which Mama Bear is uniquely poised to show up over and over again for her besties. They end the episode with an Obsess Sesh segment and dare listeners to lean into their beautiful relationships—to celebrate them, nurture them, savor them, and fight for them.  For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear website.

On Episode 157 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi take a hot minute to celebrate the sisterhood! The cultural landscape is changing for women—because of women—and the ladies take some time to feast on beauty of female friendship. They talk about the unique nature of healthy friendship and discuss the ways in which Mama Bear is uniquely poised to show up over and over again for her besties. They end the episode with an Obsess Sesh segment and dare listeners to lean into their beautiful relationships—to celebrate them, nurture them, savor them, and fight for them. <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/listen-4-91-/2018/3/30/episode-157-female-friendship-we-continue-to-slay-but-we-dont-come-to-play" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> For complete Show Notes, visit the Mama Bear website</a>.

Episode 157: Female Friendship (We Continue to Slay, but We Dont Come to Play)

On Episode 257 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi spend their time together talking about a massive subject: the school-to-prison pipeline. They use their mama bear impulse to try to understand why students of color, students with learning disabilities, or students with histories of poverty, abuse, or neglect are often isolated, punished, and “pushed out.” Much like their episode entitled  “The Privilege Pipeline,” the women share stories of their own experience as parents in the public schools and sift through the research regarding the systems in place. The episode is informative as well as thought-provoking. For links to research and complete Show Notes,  visit the Mama Bear Dares website.

On Episode 257 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Leslie and Tesi spend their time together talking about a massive subject: the school-to-prison pipeline. They use their mama bear impulse to try to understand why students of color, students with learning disabilities, or students with histories of poverty, abuse, or neglect are often isolated, punished, and “pushed out.” Much like their episode entitled <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/listen-4-91-/2017/9/8/episode-128" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> “The Privilege Pipeline,”</a> the women share stories of their own experience as parents in the public schools and sift through the research regarding the systems in place. The episode is informative as well as thought-provoking. For links to research and complete Show Notes, <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/listen-4-91-/2020/2/22/episode-257-the-school-to-prison-pipeline" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> visit the Mama Bear Dares website.</a>

Episode 257: The School-to-Prison Pipeline

On Episode 138 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hostesses Leslie and Tesi sit down and talk about Water Party 2017, an annual event that the two hosts throw with a group of fierce Mama Bears in their community. The party occurred in an empty warehouse space on November 11th, and after just a few days to decompress, the women discuss their collective exhaustion and appreciation, re-cap the WHY of the work they did, and dig up a few take-aways that result from planning a massive fundraising effort with a group of powerful women. Ultimately, this episode is an honest reflection and celebration. (Stay tuned to the end for a final number...and reason to celebrate!) For for more information, how to participate, and detailed Show Notes, please visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

On Episode 138 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, co-hostesses Leslie and Tesi sit down and talk about Water Party 2017, an annual event that the two hosts throw with a group of fierce Mama Bears in their community. The party occurred in an empty warehouse space on November 11th, and after just a few days to decompress, the women discuss their collective exhaustion and appreciation, re-cap the WHY of the work they did, and dig up a few take-aways that result from planning a massive fundraising effort with a group of powerful women. Ultimately, this episode is an honest reflection and celebration. (Stay tuned to the end for a final number...and reason to celebrate!) For for more information, how to participate, and detailed Show Notes, please visit <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.mamabeardarespodcast.com</a>.

Episode 138: Exhausted & Energized (A Water Party Re-Cap)

Coffee and wine, wine and coffee. It's a thing! In Episode 64, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi try to get to the bottom of why these two seem so important to the moms. The women discuss how sometimes we do things out of habit, sometimes we do things out of necessity, and sometimes we do things are done out of sheer joy. We dare listeners to dig deep and ask yourself what motivates you to consume the things that you do. On either side of the conversation of coffee and wine, they answer a listener-submitted question and then they reveal their current favorites in the ever-popular Obsess Sesh. For complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Coffee and wine, wine and coffee. It's a thing! In Episode 64, co-hosts Leslie and Tesi try to get to the bottom of why these two seem so important to the moms. The women discuss how sometimes we do things out of habit, sometimes we do things out of necessity, and sometimes we do things are done out of sheer joy. We dare listeners to dig deep and ask yourself what motivates you to consume the things that you do. On either side of the conversation of coffee and wine, they answer a listener-submitted question and then they reveal their current favorites in the ever-popular Obsess Sesh. For complete Show Notes, visit <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.mamabeardarespodcast.com</a>.

Episode 64: Coffee & Wine

On Episode 199 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie celebrate the writers (we see you, Mama Bear marketers!) behind the Gillette Razor commercial and discuss how to talk to those in our lives who disagree or take issue with the message behind the ad. They dive into the cultural waters of toxic masculinity, once again breaking it down and analyzing the rub. How did we get here? How do we do better? How do we talk to people we love about being a woman in this world? The two women share their ideas about the commercial, discuss the government shutdown, and then tackle two listener questions, ultimately leaving listeners with a new dare for a new day. For complete Show Notes visit the  Mama Bear Dares website.

On Episode 199 of the Mama Bear Dares Podcast, Tesi and Leslie celebrate the writers (we see you, Mama Bear marketers!) behind the Gillette Razor commercial and discuss how to talk to those in our lives who disagree or take issue with the message behind the ad. They dive into the cultural waters of toxic masculinity, once again breaking it down and analyzing the rub. How did we get here? How do we do better? How do we talk to people we love about being a woman in this world? The two women share their ideas about the commercial, discuss the government shutdown, and then tackle two listener questions, ultimately leaving listeners with a new dare for a new day. For complete Show Notes visit the <a href="%20%20http:/www.mamabeardarespodcast.com/listen-4-91-/2019/1/20/episode-199" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Mama Bear Dares website</a>.

Episode 199: Toxic Masculinity ... Again

Natalie Grant

Your perspective, your experience, your blessings and gifts, and your unique place in this world give you an incredible platform from which to stand and sing the song that only you can. There is no one in the world like you! Leslie and Tesi believe this to be true ... and so does Natalie Grant, a four-time Grammy-nominated recording artist, author, creator of the fashion and jewlery line NG by Natalie Grant, and the co-founder of the nonprofit Hope for Justice. On Episode 57 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, the three women discuss the power each of us hold within and encourage listeners to discover their strength and use it for ultimate good. While celebrating the publication of Natalie's new book, Finding Your Voice: What Every Woman Needs to Live Her God-Given Passions Outloud, the three women explore the ways we each are uniquely created to summon ultimate love to pour onto others. Though there are times that you feel small and powerless, the women have a strong message for you: Not only do you matter, but you are a crucial piece in the puzzle of life. For links and complete Show Notes, visit www.mamabeardarespodcast.com.

Your perspective, your experience, your blessings and gifts, and your unique place in this world give you an incredible platform from which to stand and sing the song that only you can. There is no one in the world like you! Leslie and Tesi believe this to be true ... and so does Natalie Grant, a four-time Grammy-nominated recording artist, author, creator of the fashion and jewlery line NG by Natalie Grant, and the co-founder of the nonprofit Hope for Justice. On Episode 57 of the Mama Bear Dares podcast, the three women discuss the power each of us hold within and encourage listeners to discover their strength and use it for ultimate good. While celebrating the publication of Natalie's new book, Finding Your Voice: What Every Woman Needs to Live Her God-Given Passions Outloud, the three women explore the ways we each are uniquely created to summon ultimate love to pour onto others. Though there are times that you feel small and powerless, the women have a strong message for you: Not only do you matter, but you are a crucial piece in the puzzle of life. For links and complete Show Notes, visit <a href="http://www.mamabeardarespodcast.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.mamabeardarespodcast.com</a>.

Episode 57: Finding (and using!) Your Voice with Natalie Grant

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