Creating A Functional Home

Hunt, Gather, Parent: What Traditional Cultures Can Teach Us About Raising Cooperative Kids

In this episode, Alyssa dives into one of the most influential parenting books she's ever read: Hunt, Gather, Parent. Inspired by traditional cultures around the world, the book challenges many of the assumptions modern parents have about raising children and offers a refreshing alternative that can make family life calmer, more cooperative, and less exhausting. From getting kids involved in household responsibilities to reducing the pressure to constantly entertain them, this conversation explores how small shifts in parenting can build confidence, independence, and stronger family relationships. IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS: * Why children are naturally wired to contribute to the family * How modern parenting often discourages helpful behavior without us realizing it * The difference between raising children to be entertained versus raising them to participate * Why chores shouldn't require rewards, sticker charts, or payment * The concept of "see and do" responsibility—teaching children to notice what needs to be done and helping without being asked * How involving children in everyday household tasks builds confidence and competence * Why family life works better when children are folded into adult life instead of becoming the center of it * The surprising parenting lessons learned from Mayan, Inuit, and Tanzanian communities * How reducing overpraise can encourage intrinsic motivation * The role of autonomy, responsibility, and contribution in developing capable children * Why creating a strong family culture can reduce stress for moms and improve cooperation throughout the home * Practical examples of how Alyssa and Chauntae are applying these principles with their own children * The importance of building community and embracing the reality that parenting was never meant to be a one-person job

How To Lose Fat And Keep It OFF

In this episode of the REBUILD Podcast, hosts Chauntae and Alyssa open up about the emotional response to last week’s Down syndrome diagnosis episode, the overwhelming support from listeners, and how they’re navigating this season of life. The second half of the episode dives deep into Alyssa’s recent 16-week fat loss phase where she lost 15 pounds postpartum while maintaining muscle and strength. Together, they break down what realistic fat loss actually looks like for busy moms from calorie tracking and meal repetition to training consistency, sleep, hunger management, and why environment matters more than willpower. This episode is a refreshing reminder that sustainable transformation is built through systems, patience, and consistency- not perfection.

Chauntae's Pregnancy Update: A New Adventure

In this deeply personal episode of the ReBuild Podcast, Chauntae opens up about one of the hardest seasons of her life after receiving the news that her unborn baby has Down syndrome. Alongside co-host Alyssa Vargas, the conversation explores grief, fear, motherhood, faith, marriage, and the powerful role of family support during life’s most vulnerable moments. Chauntae shares the emotional journey from receiving her NIPT results to undergoing CVS diagnostic testing, navigating difficult conversations with doctors, and processing what this diagnosis means for her family’s future. She also discusses how her background in behavior science, nutrition, and fitness is shaping her perspective on raising a child with Down syndrome through movement, structure, nutrition, and high expectations.

How To Rebuild Boundaries In Motherhood

In this episode, Chauntae and Alyssa dive into the real-life challenges of motherhood, from surviving the first trimester with a toddler to navigating sleep regressions and shifting family routines. They unpack a powerful conversation around boundaries, family values, and modern parenting pressures especially when it comes to kids’ activities, social life, and screen time. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to “do it all,” this episode will help you step back, get clear on what truly matters, and build a life that aligns with your values—not everyone else’s expectations.

Nutrition and Fitness During Pregnancy

In this episode, Chauntae and Alyssa pivot from a powerful conversation on motherhood and cultural narratives into a candid, informative discussion on pregnancy specifically the first trimester. From real-life experiences with fatigue, food aversions, and training struggles to evidence-based guidance on nutrition and exercise, this episode breaks down what women actually need to know. Whether you're currently pregnant, planning to be, or coaching clients through it—this is your no-BS guide to navigating the first trimester with confidence. 🎁 FREE RESOURCE Want Alyssa’s Pregnancy Guide PDF? 👉 DM @alyssa_c_vargas on Instagram to get it!