Freckled Foodie & Friends

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jennaca Cotton, a Professor of Education and Literary Specialist, for a deep dive into play-based parenting. We talk about the importance of play in early childhood, why academics shouldn’t be pushed too soon , and how parents can take the pressure off themselves when it comes to their child’s development. Dr. Cotton shares practical tips on how to encourage independent play, why reading to your child is absolutely essential, and her honest take on screen time. Plus, the best toys that help support development! Key Takeaway / Points:How play positively impacts your child’s development, cognitive learning, and growthThe power of independent play and letting your child explore and entertain themselvesAdvice for parents on how to transition from play time to seriousHow to ready your kid for kindergartenThe truth about battery-operated toysThis episode is brought to you by Lovevery, an early childhood company that makes play more fun, and parenting easier. If you are a new cus

In this episode, I dive into what the f*ck is happening to my body during weeks 8-11 (which are always the hardest weeks for me) during my third pregnancy. I cover every detail from eating every possible second to avoid nausea, to extreme pregnancy exhaustion, to starting Zofran and it changing my life, to experiencing constipation from said medication. I talk about the relief of finally being able to announce my pregnancy, the insane amount of time that pregnant women have to spend at the doctor’s office, and overall not feeling my best during these difficult weeks of the first trimester.Key Takeaway / Points: Pregnancy exhaustion and intense napsSurviving on saltine crackers and sour candy, coffee aversions, & body shakesHow taking Zofran saved me from my nauseaDetails around announcing my pregnancyDifficulty keeping up with hygiene, self-care, and no longer fitting in my clothesThe conflicting emotions of feeling gratitude while also struggling during pregnancyThis episode is sponsored by Natural Cycle

In this episode, I sit down with Kylie Kelce to talk about balancing it all, from her career to motherhood to navigating the spotlight as a part of the Kelce family. Kylie keeps it real on why she started her hit podcast, Not Gonna Lie, how she and Jason are intentionally creating a “normal” life for their kids, and the importance of keeping her children grounded. We also have an honest conversation about our pregnancy and postpartum experiences, gender disappointment, and why Kylie decided to openly share her story of pregnancy loss. Plus, we talk about the importance of women in sports, building strong female friendships, and how she’s living her life unfiltered!Key Takeaway / Points:Setting the record straight on her podcast, Not Gonna LieNavigating her family’s fame as someone who doesn’t like to be the center of attentionOn raising four daughtersPregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood honestyThe emotions that come with gender disappointmentFangirling over female athletes and role modelsColoring confessiona

In this episode, I sit down with Carl Radke for an honest conversation about sobriety, grief, and what it’s really like behind the scenes of Bravo’s Summer House. Carl opens up about his journey with addiction that led to his sobriety, how he dealt with survivor’s guilt after his brother’s passing, and how writing his memoir, Cake Eater, helped him find healing. We talk about the realities of being sober in a partying environment, the highs and lows of reality TV and being on camera, how Carl navigates friendship and fame, and finding purpose after hitting rock bottom. Plus, Carl shares advice for anyone curious about sobriety, why self-acceptance is ongoing work, and what we can expect from this current season of Summer House.Key Takeaway / Points:Carl’s experience with addiction and his journey to sobrietyGrieving his brother’s death and dealing with survivor’s guilt, imposter syndrome, and the feeling of not being “enough”How hitting rock bottom led him to getting sober Pressure of being on camera and real

Surprise! I’m pregnant with Baby #3! Which means we are bringing back WTF Is Happening To My Body, this time as a series on the podcast sponsored by Natural Cycles. In this episode, we get into what the actual fuck is happening to my body during my third pregnancy, and the raw, unfiltered realities that come with it. I walk you through my experiences during weeks 4–7, from how I found out I was pregnant to the rollercoaster of early symptoms: nausea, exhaustion, pregnancy rage, and the literal superhuman changes that our bodies go through. I get honest about my mental health, why I stay on medication throughout my pregnancy, and how I’m practicing self-compassion during this journey!Key Takeaway / Points: How I found out I was pregnant and my first symptomsMy experience with PMDD, anxiety, depression & staying on meds during my pregnancyPregnancy exhaustion vs. postpartum exhaustionCravings, letting go of “food noise”, and a deep desire for comfort and nostalgiaThe realities of early pregnancy: irritabili

In this episode, I sit down with sex therapist Vanessa and her husband Xander (from @vanessaandxander) to talk all things sex, intimacy, and relationships. We dive deep into how our upbringings shape our comfort around sex and why having open conversations around it is so important. Vanessa & Xander break down the difference between spontaneous and responsive desire, why mismatched libidos are totally normal, and how pleasure should be at the center of our sex lives. We get real about navigating sex after kids, using toys, and why foreplay doesn’t just start in the bedroom. Vanessa and Xander share practical tips on initiating sex, communicating needs with your partner, and the positions that actually work best.Key Takeaway / Points:What libido mismatch really means (and why it’s normal)The different types of sexual desire (spontaneous vs. responsive)Practical ways to initiate sex and navigate rejection from your partnerHow couples can reconnect even during “survival mode” as parentsThe role of toys and r

Friendship Series: In this episode, I sit down with my friend Carissa (@broccyourbody) for an honest conversation about friendship, new motherhood, and the realities of juggling it all while running your own business. Carissa shares her postpartum journey - from bonding and newborn giggles to unexpected challenges of motherhood and health anxiety. We talk about the power of low-maintenance friendships, making new “mom friends,” mental health during postpartum, and how our relationship with food and cooking has shifted after having kids. Carissa also shares tips for making cooking easier as a mom and how she’s prioritizing her self-care in this new season of life.Key Takeaway / Points: The beauty of low-maintenance friendships and how to make new friends as a momHer honest postpartum experience and navigating early motherhoodTransitioning from breastfeeding to combo feedingThe unexpected mental load of motherhoodOur relationship with food and cooking after becoming momsThe stigma around childcare as a self-emp

In this episode, my mom Cindy is back for an honest conversation about her journey starting anxiety medication, why she’s drinking less, and how she’s loving this current stage in her life. We talk about why she waited so long to try anxiety medication and the impact that it had on our relationship. She also gets candid about her recent cosmetic procedures, views on aging gracefully, and what it was like being a mother in her generation. Plus, more on why we are both proud of each other and how I think we are in the best stage in our relationship!Key Takeaway / Points:Cindy’s journey starting anxiety medication and the positive impact it’s had on her lifeThe challenges and rewards of cutting back on alcoholOn ditching her AirPods and the story behind “AirPod gate” The key to her long-lasting marriageA rundown of the cosmetic work she’s done (more on her recent facelift)Listener questions on aging, her favorite life chapters, and motherhoodThis episode is sponsored by Roller Rabbit. Use code CAM20 for 20% off

In this episode, I sit down with Monica Padman, co-host and producer of Armchair Expert, for a conversation about her journey from aspiring actress to babysitter to speech writer to podcasting powerhouse. Monica shares how she navigated career pivots, the evolution of her role as co-host with Dax, and building confidence in real time. We dive into the behind-the-scenes of producing and editing episodes and new podcasts she’s created (like Beth’s Dead). Monica also talks about the impact of sharing her egg freezing journey publicly, the value of friendships, dealing with imposter syndrome, and recently being nominated for a Golden Globe. Finally, we dive into her favorite Armchair Expert moments, dream guests, our shared Friends obsession, and the process of moving into her new home!Key Takeaway / Points:Sharing my love for Armchair Expert as a long-time listener and ArmcherryMonica’s career evolution from nannying for Kristen Bell & Dax Shepard to becoming a co-creator and co-host of one of the top podcas

In this episode, I sit down with filmmaker, Leslie Iwerks, to dive into the making of her documentary, Disneyland Handcrafted. Leslie reveals how Disneyland was built in just one year and the film’s fascinating archival process of never-before-seen footage from the 1950s. We chat about Leslie’s Disney family legacy, her favorite behind-the-scenes childhood memories, and how growing up surrounded by Disney magic has shaped her life. We also get into rapid-fire Disney favorites!Key Takeaway / Points:The behind-the-scenes of making the film, Disneyland HandcraftedWhat it was like digging through the Disney archives, uncovering the stress of building Disneyland in one year, and the process of matching audio to the silent footageLeslie’s childhood memories of growing up on Disney film sets and parksThe magic of her grandfather co-creating Mickey Mouse with Walt DisneyDisney rapid-fire favorites: Disneyland vs. Disney World, favorite Disney films and rides, and best food at EpcotWatch Disneyland Handcrafted HEREFol

In this episode, I sit down with best-selling author, NYU professor, and values expert, Dr. Suzy Welch, to talk about her practical approach to finding your purpose. We dive into the research behind her proven method, “Becoming You,” and the popular NYU class she created to help students discover their most authentic selves & careers through identifying their values. Dr. Welch opens up about her own journey to finding the work she was meant to do, the importance of knowing (and living) your top values, and how she has navigated life after loss. We also chat about the realities of being a working mom, why women can’t always “have it all”, and the importance of female friendships at any age. Plus, she breaks down the “Four Horsemen” that hold us back from reaching our full potential and her simple but powerful 10-10-10 decision-making method. Key Takeaway / Points:Why so many people feel lost trying to find their purposeThe research behind Dr. Suzy Welch's “Becoming You” methodology and how she turned i

My sister Lucy is back for a round of hot takes! In this episode, we share our unfiltered opinions from unread email notifications (my nightmare) to romance/SMUT novels counting as reading to normalizing sharing food with strangers. We also yap about our latest TV and pop culture obsessions and wanting to start a podcast book club. Plus, we share some listeners’ hot takes!Key Takeaway / Points:Quick catch up with Lucy and her first time in the new studioFavorite TV shows and movies we’re watching right nowStarting a romance novel book club for the podcastSharing our hot takes: Should kids fly first class? Is listening to an audiobook reading?  Should hair salons cover the mirrors during haircuts?Listeners’ hot takes: from airplane food to voice notes to short kingsCaller line is HEREFollow me:Instagram: @cameronoaksrogersSubstack: Fill Your CupWebsite: cameronoaksrogers.comTikTok: @cameronoaksrogersYoutube: Cameron Rogers

In this episode, I sit down with New Jersey Senator, Andy Kim, to talk about the realities of caregiving for his father while also raising his young kids. Andy shares the personal story of his father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, how fast his family’s life changed, and the emotional and financial challenges of finding the right care. We dive into the gaps within Medicare and Medicaid, what needs to change systemically for caregivers, and the legislation he’s working on to support families. Andy shares his biggest worries for our kids' future - from mental health to social media - and why he believes universal healthcare is a must in our country. Plus, we talk about his favorite part about Jersey!Key Takeaway / Points:Andy’s personal experience as a caregiver for his father with Alzheimer’sThe realities of being part of the “sandwich generation,” and caring for aging parents while raising childrenThe financial burden that many caregivers face in our country and the truth behind the limitations of MedicareAndy’s

In this episode, I sit down with Emma Heming Willis to discuss her husband Bruce Willis’ diagnosis with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) and the realities of caregiving. Emma opens up about the challenges and emotions that come with caring for a loved one with dementia, the impact it’s had on her blended family, and the importance of finding community support. We talk about how FTD manifested for Bruce, how she approached sharing the diagnosis with their young kids, and why advocating for caregivers is so critical. Emma shares advice from her new book, “The Unexpected Journey” for those navigating similar experiences, how she prioritizes her own well-being as a caregiver, and the significance of asking for help without guilt. We also touch on her advocacy work for brain health and the power of both vulnerability and resilience in sharing her family’s journey.Key Takeaway / Points:Emma’s present mindset, the challenges of caregiving, and the importance in sharing her family’s storyEmma and Bruce’s love story and

In this mini episode, I share the list of questions I recently answered with my husband, Joe, to start off the new year. Together we reflected on the moments from the past year that challenged us, made us proud, and what we want to work on for the year ahead as a couple and as parents. I share more about our conversation and how we left feeling even more connected, supported, and excited for the year to come! Plus, I talk about the creativity I feel for this new season, the gratitude I have for this community, and how the office has been such a game changer for my work.Key Takeaway / Points:Excitement for this new season & the office being one of the greatest unlocks for meThe list of questions that helped Joe & I reflect on the past yearUnpacking what worked well and what didn’t, the moments we loved and were most proud of, and the things we want to prioritize in the year aheadFollow me:Instagram: @cameronoaksrogersSubstack: Fill Your CupWebsite: cameronoaksrogers.comTikTok: @cameronoaksrogersYouTube

In this episode, I sit down with the iconic Mandy Moore to talk all things motherhood, friendship, and her journey through Hollywood. Mandy opens up about her early career, touring with *NSYNC, the lasting impact of "A Walk to Remember," and how transitioning from pop star to actress shaped her life. We dive deep into navigating parenthood - going back to work during the early stages of postpartum, what it’s like raising three children, and how to best show up for our kids. Mandy candidly shares how she maintains boundaries and her sense of self while in the public eye, and the importance of female friendships. Plus, we chat about “This Is Us", surviving the Eaton fires, and her advocacy work. Finally, Mandy reveals her dream Broadway project, go-to mom hacks, and what to expect from her new Hulu football series!Key Takeaway / Points:Reminiscing on the masterpiece that is “A Walk To Remember”Mandy shares what it was like opening up for *NSYNCRemaining a sense of normalcy during her rise of fame

In this solo episode, I kick off the new season from my brand-new studio and office space! I share all the details about leaving my former network, why I’m bringing the show in-house, and how I’m really following my gut throughout this whole process and trusting the universe. I dive into what you can expect from this season with new episodes, monthly themes, exciting guests, and continuing to build this community through the show. I answer listener questions from Cam’s Corner on setting goals and manifesting, mental health, overcoming PMDD, and more. I share how motherhood healed my relationship with food & wellness and how I’m fully leaning into being a Disney mom! Plus, my obsession with “Heated Rivalry” and why I think every show needs to go back to weekly episode releases.Key Takeaway / Points:Kicking off the new season and new studio updatesWhy I moved the show’s production in-house and the vision for the showNavigating the holiday season chaosThe power of manifesting, vision boarding, and setting go

Hopping on the mini mics for a bonus episode with my sister, Lucy, to recap all things Heated Rivalry and our all-consuming obsession. Some would say it is a fun internet community/cult we've joined and others may say it's unhealthy, but we don't care because it brings us joy!! If you haven't watched Heated Rivalry yet, let this be your sign to go binge the season (only 6 episodes on HBO) and then come listen to this recap. Apologies for the subpar audio quality, but I didn't pack my microphones for our family vacation and simultaneously felt very pulled to do a longer form recap of my love for this show. So here we are!!

In this episode (originally aired on 7/12/23), I sit down with Dr. Aliza Pressman, developmental psychologist, co-founder of the Mount Sinai Parenting Center and the Seedlings Group, professor, and host of the Raising Good Humans podcast. We discuss how Dr. Aliza came to developmental psychology, how her work influences her parenting and vice versa, and her thoughts on parenting “best practices” versus what is actually realistic. She shares the “orchid and dandelion” theory about children, her top four pieces of advice for first-time parents, and the value of process over outcome. Finally, we discuss growth mindsets versus fixed mindsets in children, how to start potty training with your child, and what she finds both difficult and great about parenting teenagers right now.Key Takeaway / Points:What drew Dr. Aliza to developmental psychologyOn how her work shifted after becoming a parentOn “best practices” for parenting vs. what is actually realisticHow children can be “dandelions” or ”orchids” Dr. Aliza’s to

Trigger Warning: discussion of mass shootings. In this powerful episode (originally aired on 3/19/25), I sit down with Sandy Hook survivor, Ella Seaver, to discuss the lasting impact of gun violence on mental health, the importance of activism, and the need for change in gun laws. We explore her journey of healing, the challenges of leaving her supportive community for college, and how she's found purpose in pain through advocacy. This conversation sheds light on the often-overlooked mental health consequences of mass shootings and offers a unique perspective on gun violence from someone who experienced it firsthand. For a special intro to this episode, we are joined by CBS News correspondent and journalist, Steve Hartman, to talk about Netflix’s new documentary, All The Empty Rooms, a seven-year-long project that documents the empty bedrooms of children killed in school shootings. This episode is a reminder to us all that we can no longer become numb to this issue.Key Takeaway / Points:What led Steve Har