This Magic Life #139: Writing Children's Books with Christine Devane

This Magic Life Episode #143: The People Place with Robyn + Kazia

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/fan_mail/new] Building Community from the Ground Up: The Heartfelt Story of The People Place In this episode, Bonnie sits down with Robyn Murgio and Kazia Kumbler, co-founders of The People Place, a vibrant community hub for parents and families in Los Angeles. They share how their personal journeys and shared values fueled the creation of a supportive, non-judgmental space dedicated to authentic connection, belonging, and intentional parenting. Main Topics: * How their early experiences with community gaps inspired the founding of The People Place * The evolution of their support groups from in-person to virtual during COVID, and finally to a physical space * The importance of vulnerability, trust, and friendship in building a successful partnership * The role of gender inclusivity, paid family leave, and social support in modern parenthood * Overcoming challenges like licensing, space design, and community needs * The science of matrescence and brain changes in postpartum women * Celebrating community-created friendships that last for over a decade * Practical advice: riding the waves of parenthood and embracing imperfection Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Robin and Kejia’s vision for The People Place 02:15 - The origin story: from lonely new moms to community builders 05:04 - How the pandemic transformed their support groups into a thriving brick-and-mortar space 07:48 - The creative process behind designing a welcoming parenting space 10:53 - The secret to a strong partnership: communication, trust, and shared values 13:14 - Non-judgmental support: removing shame from parenting conversations 15:23 - Building lifelong friendships among members—it's more than just support 18:10 - The importance of clear boundaries and open dialogue in business partnerships 22:58 - Exploring the science of matrescence and brain changes post-birth 28:49 - The evolution of modern parenthood: from caregiving to inclusivity and shared responsibility 33:35 - Challenges faced: licensing issues, space adjustments, and community needs 37:09 - The power of connection: on social media and in real life 42:30 - Advice for new parents: trust your intuition, embrace imperfection, and ride the waves 45:00 - The impact of shared history and mutual support among members 50:27 - Final thoughts: the importance of community, self-compassion, and living with intentionResources & Links:   * The People Place [https://thepeopleplace.com/]   * Brain Science of Matrescence Study [https://example.com/matrescence-study] (hypothetical link for context)   * Heather Cox Richardson Podcast [https://heathercoxrichardson.substack.com/podcast]   Connect with Robin Murgio and Kejia Kumbler:     Note: This episode celebrates the power of This episode of This Magic Life is sponsored by Knead Obscura LLC - Edith Harris. Through intentional bodywork, therapeutic massage, and restorative care, Edith creates space for deep relaxation, nervous system support, and reconnection to yourself. Edith’s approach is grounded in compassion, intuition, and whole-body wellness. Because caring for yourself isn’t a luxury — it’s part of living this magic life. Knead Obscura | Clinic [https://www.kneadobscura.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/support] * Website: booksbybonnielippincott.com * Instagram: @books_by_bonnie_lippincott * TikTok: @entrylevelmom * Email: booksbybonnielippincott@gmail.com Charity: Baby2Baby is a national non-profit organization that provides children living in poverty with diapers, clothing and all the basic necessities that every child deserves. To learn more and get involved, visit www.baby2baby.org [http://www.baby2baby.org/]

This Magic Life #142: From Personal Need to National Brand: The Atlas Bars Journey with James Oliver

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/fan_mail/new] Summary In this insightful interview, James Oliver, founder of Atlas Bars, shares his journey from personal nutrition challenges to creating a successful brand that emphasizes clean, functional protein bars. Discover how his background as an endurance athlete influences his product design, the importance of science-backed nutrition, and his vision for the future of food and wellness. Atlas Bar – 20g Protein, 1g Sugar, Real Food [https://atlasbars.com/] Key Topics Journey from personal challenge to product creation Science-backed nutrition and blood sugar impact Brand development and scaling challenges Future trends in food and wellness This episode of This Magic Life is sponsored by Knead Obscura LLC - Edith Harris. Through intentional bodywork, therapeutic massage, and restorative care, Edith creates space for deep relaxation, nervous system support, and reconnection to yourself. Edith’s approach is grounded in compassion, intuition, and whole-body wellness. Because caring for yourself isn’t a luxury — it’s part of living this magic life. Knead Obscura | Clinic [https://www.kneadobscura.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/support] * Website: booksbybonnielippincott.com * Instagram: @books_by_bonnie_lippincott * TikTok: @entrylevelmom * Email: booksbybonnielippincott@gmail.com Charity: Baby2Baby is a national non-profit organization that provides children living in poverty with diapers, clothing and all the basic necessities that every child deserves. To learn more and get involved, visit www.baby2baby.org [http://www.baby2baby.org/]

This Magic Life BONUS EPISODE: Astrology for our Kids, Astrology as a language for emotional needs and temperament

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/fan_mail/new] Summary Exploring the 12 zodiac signs and their meanings in children, this episode offers insights into emotional strengths, challenges, and how understanding astrology can help parents love and support their kids better. Astrology 101 | Complete Beginner's Guide [https://www.astrologyrising.com/learn/astrology-101] Key Topics Astrology as a language for emotional needs and temperament Characteristics and needs of each zodiac sign in children How understanding zodiac signs can improve parenting strategies Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/support] * Website: booksbybonnielippincott.com * Instagram: @books_by_bonnie_lippincott * TikTok: @entrylevelmom * Email: booksbybonnielippincott@gmail.com Charity: Baby2Baby is a national non-profit organization that provides children living in poverty with diapers, clothing and all the basic necessities that every child deserves. To learn more and get involved, visit www.baby2baby.org [http://www.baby2baby.org/]

This Magic Life Episode #141: Building a Business That Fits Your Life with Chanda Coston

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/fan_mail/new] About | Achieve Your Goals Today — Chanda Co. Strategist [https://www.chanda-co.com/about] Episode Summary: What if the key to success isn’t doing more—but doing what actually fits your life? In this episode of This Magic Life, I sit down with business strategist, U.S. Navy veteran, and mom of five, Chanda Coston, to talk about what it really looks like to build a business without burning out. Chanda shares her journey from military service to corporate leadership to entrepreneurship—and the powerful lesson she learned along the way: your business should align with your life, not compete with it. We talk about the concept of “seasons of life” and why so many women feel overwhelmed trying to match someone else’s pace or version of success. Chanda breaks down how misalignment shows up (hello, exhaustion and resentment), and how to recognize when it’s time to pause, pivot, or simply slow down. This conversation is a grounding reminder that building something meaningful doesn’t have to come at the expense of your well-being, your family, or yourself. In this episode, we cover: * Why aligning your business with your current life season is everything * The subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs of burnout and misalignment * How to conduct a personal “life audit” to understand your true capacity * Why consistency matters more than rapid growth * How to stop chasing someone else’s version of success and trust your own path If you’ve ever felt like you’re trying to do it all—and wondering why it feels so heavy—this episode will feel like a deep exhale. Because the goal isn’t just to build a successful business… It’s to build a life you actually want to live. This episode of This Magic Life is sponsored by Knead Obscura LLC - Edith Harris. Through intentional bodywork, therapeutic massage, and restorative care, Edith creates space for deep relaxation, nervous system support, and reconnection to yourself. Edith’s approach is grounded in compassion, intuition, and whole-body wellness. Because caring for yourself isn’t a luxury — it’s part of living this magic life. Knead Obscura | Clinic [https://www.kneadobscura.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/support] * Website: booksbybonnielippincott.com * Instagram: @books_by_bonnie_lippincott * TikTok: @entrylevelmom * Email: booksbybonnielippincott@gmail.com Charity: Baby2Baby is a national non-profit organization that provides children living in poverty with diapers, clothing and all the basic necessities that every child deserves. To learn more and get involved, visit www.baby2baby.org [http://www.baby2baby.org/]

This Magic Life Episode #140: Feeding Isn’t Just About the Baby: A Conversation about lactation with Ashley Karlin

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/fan_mail/new] In this conversation, Bonnie Lippincott interviews Ashley Karlin, an international board certified lactation consultant and occupational therapist, about the complexities of feeding support for families. They discuss the importance of understanding both the baby's and parent's needs, the role of sensory factors in feeding, and the consultation process for addressing feeding issues.  Ashley shares insights on the impact of delivery methods on breastfeeding, the challenges faced by families with premature infants, and the significance of education in preparing for feeding. The conversation emphasizes the importance of trusting parental instincts and the benefits of breast milk, while also addressing common concerns such as pain during breastfeeding. Takeaways Ashley blends science, compassion, and lived motherhood experience. Feeding support should consider the entire family's wellbeing. Sensory factors can significantly impact a baby's feeding experience. Consultations involve observing the parent-baby interaction. Delivery methods can affect milk supply and breastfeeding success. Parents of premature infants need emotional and practical support. Education about feeding should start before the baby arrives. Pain during breastfeeding is not normal and should be addressed. Breast milk adapts to meet the baby's changing needs. Trusting your instincts as a parent is crucial.  Titles Navigating Feeding Challenges: Insights from an Expert The Intersection of Occupational Therapy and Lactation sound bites "Feeding isn't just about the baby." "It's okay to feel happy and grateful." "Trust your inner voice and gut." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Feeding Support 03:01 The Role of Occupational Therapy in Feeding 05:47 Understanding Sensory Factors in Feeding 08:34 Consultation Process for Feeding Issues 11:15 Impact of Delivery Method on Feeding 13:56 Supporting Families with Premature Infants 16:33 Personal Experiences in the NICU 19:29 Recognizing When to Seek Professional Help 21:54 The Importance of Education in Feeding 24:37 Pain Management in Breastfeeding 27:24 Benefits of Breast Milk 30:22 Trusting Your Parental Instincts 32:45 Final Thoughts and Reassurances Ashley's Website: Family Tree OT and Lactation [https://www.familytreeot.com/] This episode of This Magic Life is sponsored by Knead Obscura LLC - Edith Harris. Through intentional bodywork, therapeutic massage, and restorative care, Edith creates space for deep relaxation, nervous system support, and reconnection to yourself. Edith’s approach is grounded in compassion, intuition, and whole-body wellness. Because caring for yourself isn’t a luxury — it’s part of living this magic life. Knead Obscura | Clinic [https://www.kneadobscura.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2245062/support] * Website: booksbybonnielippincott.com * Instagram: @books_by_bonnie_lippincott * TikTok: @entrylevelmom * Email: booksbybonnielippincott@gmail.com Charity: Baby2Baby is a national non-profit organization that provides children living in poverty with diapers, clothing and all the basic necessities that every child deserves. To learn more and get involved, visit www.baby2baby.org [http://www.baby2baby.org/]