At Home with Emily

Your First Houseplants: No Stress, No Green Thumb Needed

Kelly McGowan is back with the plant advice we all need. Whether your track record with greenery is a little... crispy... or you're ready to ditch the fake tree in the corner, this episode is packed with simple, beginner-friendly ways to bring real plants into your home. From snake plants that thrive on neglect to indoor trees that quietly grow into stunners, Kelly shares her go-to recommendations, care tips, and why overwatering is your plant's worst enemy. Plus, Emily shares how a little greenery can go a long way in home design. If you're ready to become a proud “plant lady” (without the stress), this is your sign. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

What U.S. Youth Sports Can Learn from the U.K.

Scottish-born college soccer coach Ben Taylor brings a fresh, overseas perspective to youth sports in America, and it might just change the way you think about your kid’s team schedule. Emily and Ben talk about the big cultural differences between how kids grow up playing sports in the UK versus here in the States, why choosing the right coach matters way more than chasing elite leagues, and how to help your child stay in love with the game. Whether your kid is just kicking off their first season or you’re knee-deep in club sports, this is a conversation full of honesty, wisdom, and encouragement for sports parents everywhere. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

What Matters Most: A Working Mom’s Perspective

She was a single mom working the 6 o’clock news… and still made it to bedtime stories and parent-teacher conferences. In this episode, Emily welcomes her dear friend Linda Simmons back to the podcast to talk honestly about the highs and lows of juggling motherhood and a demanding career. From newsroom deadlines to childcare emergencies and big life pivots, Linda shares what she’s learned about work-life balance and why being “just a mom” is actually everything. It’s a beautiful conversation about choosing your family, showing up when it matters most, and redefining success on your own terms. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Plant with Purpose: Simple Swaps for a Healthier Landscape

What if just a few simple changes in your yard could actually help save butterflies, bees... and our food supply? In this episode of At Home with Emily, we’re chatting again with Kelly McGowan, a horticulture expert from the University of Missouri Extension, about how native plants can make a huge difference. Kelly shares easy, beginner-friendly ideas for swapping traditional landscaping with beautiful, purposeful plants that support pollinators and local wildlife. Whether you’ve got a green thumb or no clue where to begin, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to dig in and do a little good from your own backyard. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Raising Good Humans Through Sports

We all want the best for our kids... but when it comes to youth sports, the pressure to perform can sneak in fast. In this episode, Emily sits down with Jill Simmons from the Springfield-Greene County Park Board to talk about how we can create a healthier, happier sports experience for our kids. From sideline stress to the emotional car ride home, they unpack why so many children are quitting sports earlier than ever, and what we as parents, coaches, and supporters can do differently. Jill shares practical, heartfelt advice on teaching sportsmanship, building resilience, and letting our kids enjoy the game without all the pressure. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.