This Pride Month, we’re raising our mics (and our glasses) to the moms who show up with open hearts, loud love, and zero conditions. 

In this special episode, we’re celebrating the fierce, fabulous mamas who embrace their kids exactly as they are—no "phases," no shame, just full-on support. From rainbow flags to quiet moments of unconditional love, we talk about what it means to be a safe place, a loud ally, and a soft landing.

Because being a proud parent of a proud kid? That’s the real love story. 

#ALarkAndHerMomster #PrideMonth #UnconditionalLove #ProudMomEnergy #LGBTQAlly #MotherDaughterPodcast #LoveIsLove #FamilyIsEverything #RaiseThemRight

From fireflies to fireworks to that first time you saw a shooting star—remember the magic of childhood awe? ✨ Turns out, those goosebump moments aren’t just cute—they’re crucial to how kids grow, think, and connect with the world.

In this episode, we dive into the science (and sweetness) of wonder, curiosity, and wide-eyed amazement—and how we, as parents and grown-ups, can nurture that spark instead of snuffing it out. Because in a world full of screens and schedules, a little awe goes a long way.

Join us as we reflect, laugh, and maybe tear up a little remembering our own moments of awe—and how to make room for more of them.

#ALarkAndHerMomster #PodcastEpisode #AweAndWonder #ChildhoodDevelopment #ParentingWithHeart #MomAndDaughterChats #RaiseThemCurious #EmbraceTheWonder

Some families have Sunday brunch. We have chipmunk rescues and impromptu rabies vaccines. 🐿️💉

This week, things took a wild turn (literally) when a good deed turned into a health department hotline call and a few needles in the arm. But hey, would it even be a week with the Lark and her Momster if things didn’t go sideways in the most dramatic, hilarious way?

Tune in as we relive the rescue gone rogue, unpack what it’s like living in a sitcom that never got picked up (but should have), and remind ourselves why boring is overrated.

#ItsNeverBoring #ALarkAndHerMomster #ChipmunkChaos #RabiesRookie #MotherDaughterMadness #TrueStory #OnlyUs

In this heartwarming (and slightly hilarious) episode, we dive deep into the beautiful chaos that is the mother-daughter bond. From childhood advice that still rings true (“don’t talk to strangers!”) to surprising lessons we didn’t realize we were learning (“like how to give a look that says everything”), we’re unpacking the wisdom passed down—and what we’ve done with it.

But here’s the twist: what would parenting look like today if our moms had to raise us in 2025? With iPads in high chairs, TikTok tantrums, and a world that’s moving faster than ever, we imagine how our moms might adapt (or revolt!). Would they still make us call people on the phone? Would bedtime be a screen-free sanctuary or a negotiation with Netflix?

Join us as we laugh, reflect, and maybe even get a little teary thinking about how the love, lessons, and legacy of our mothers shape us—and how we’d raise each other all over again.

"I was thinking about our conversation the other day…" and well, it sent us spiraling—in a good way—into the surprisingly fascinating world of childhood fibs, teenage cover-ups, and the family secrets we didn’t mean to pass down. From toddler tales to teenage white lies, we explore why kids lie, what it says about development (thank you, AI!), and how our own upbringings might have quietly endorsed the art of selective truth-telling.

Join us as we ask: Why do kids lie? Why did WE lie? And more importantly—how can we handle honesty with empathy and still keep our sanity? Spoiler: the apple doesn’t fall far from the “don’t tell your so and so I bought this” tree.

This year threw more at us than we ever could have imagined—and in ways we’re still trying to wrap our heads around. In this episode, my mom and I open up about how we are facing the unexpected and the unimaginable together. Through heartbreak, hope, and everything in between, we are holding onto our seats. We’re sharing pieces of our story and how we feel—raw, real, and straight from the heart.

What do you get when you mix a sleepless night of tornado warnings with a day full of airport delays? A chaotic 24 hours, a few new friends, and enough stories to fill a whole podcast episode—literally. This week, we’re trading comfort for connection and frustration for funny memories. It wasn’t easy (it never is), but it definitely reminded us what matters most. Spoiler alert: it’s not the flight status.

In this episode, the Momster turns the mic on the Lark for a deep-dive Q&A. We’ll be exploring the dreams we left behind, the lessons we’ve learned the hard way, the moments that shaped us, and the ways our relationship has evolved over time. Get ready for honest reflections, surprising revelations, and a heartfelt look into the inner workings of our lives.

Part 2: The Momster Asks the Lark.

In the next two episodes, we’re turning the mic on each other for a deep-dive Q&A. We’ll be exploring the dreams we left behind, the lessons we’ve learned the hard way, the moments that shaped us, and the ways our relationship has evolved over time. Get ready for honest reflections, surprising revelations, and a heartfelt look into the inner workings of our lives.

Part 1: The Lark asks The Momster.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s close to home—and I blame you, Momster! Yep, you taught me the “work ethic that brings work-life imbalance.” I know, you’ve told me to slow down, but somehow I learned it from you. Kidding, kind of. 

We’re talking about the generational legacy of women juggling it all—and, let's be honest, then some. I’m not just blaming you, promise. This culture of overwork and sacrifice was bred from centuries of women being expected to do more, be more, work harder, and put up with some seriously inappropriate “stuff” in the workplace, all in the name of breaking that glass ceiling (or, as you prefer, the concrete ceiling).

But before we start blaming ourselves, let’s take a look at history. Women have always worked—whether it was in the fields, making goods, or providing essential services. Fast forward through time, and suddenly it’s the industrial revolution, WWII, the feminist revolution, the Equal Pay Act, the Civil Rights Act… the list goes on. But let’s not get too cozy—because while we’ve come a long way, women still face some serious hurdles, including microaggressions, double standards, and the ever-present struggle for balance.

In this episode, we’re tackling how these historical shifts have shaped the work-life imbalance we see today. It’s more than just a personal issue—it’s systemic. So buckle up as we take a witty, smart look at why it’s so hard to have it all, and how breaking free from this cycle might just require more than just a “you need to slow down” reminder from Momster.

Tune in for the mix of history, humor, and a whole lot of truth about how women are still fighting for balance in an imbalanced world!

The Kids Are Not Alright - In this episode, we dive into the complex, often heartbreaking world of childhood trauma and its lasting impact on today's generation. With a world that feels increasingly unsafe—whether it's the fear of school shootings, the threat of violence in public spaces, or the unsettling news cycle—our kids are facing challenges that many of us never could have imagined growing up.

Reflecting on the past, we discuss how our own childhoods were shaped by events like the Challenger disaster and Columbine, events that left emotional scars but weren’t part of the daily background noise. But today's kids are living in a world where safety is constantly in question, leading to profound effects on their emotional regulation, memory, and stress response.

Through the lens of neuroscience, we explore how chronic exposure to stress and fear can physically alter a child's brain, particularly the areas that control emotions and stress responses, leaving them more sensitive to threats—even when they’re safe. What does this mean for their learning, social interactions, and overall mental health?

We also examine the terrifying reality for immigrant children—both legal and undocumented—who face daily threats and uncertainty, amplifying the trauma they experience. And with cuts to essential programs like Head Start and public education, how will these kids find stability in a world that seems to offer none?

Join us as we unpack the science behind childhood trauma, the societal implications, and the urgent need for change to protect and nurture the next generation.

https://www.bu.edu/articles/2024/why-are-kids-struggling-with-anxiety-more-than-ever/

https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2018/04/18/a-majority-of-u-s-teens-fear-a-shooting-could-happen-at-their-school-and-most-parents-share-their-concern/#:~:text=Overall%2C%2057%25%20of%20teens%20say,are%20not%20at%20all%20worried.

https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/working-paper/persistent-fear-and-anxiety-can-affect-young-childrens-learning-and-development/

https://www.kennedykrieger.org/stories/making-difference/inspiring-stories/anxiety-and-its-impact-learning#:~:text=Fight%2Dflight%20responses%20can%20inhibit,overall%20flexibility%20in%20one's%20thinking.

Episode 30 - Hip Hep Aliens: A Gilmore Girls Follow-Up

Join Larkin and her delightful Momster in this episode as they dive into the whimsical world of Gilmore Girls! Kicking things off with their signature warm welcome, they pour a glass of Je’taime Brut—a sparkling wine that says “I love you” with every sip. With its fresh strawberry and raspberry notes, this French delight is the perfect pairing for a night of trivia!

The duo reminisces about their recent trivia night at Primitive Coffee on Nolensville, where they discovered just how challenging Gilmore Girls questions can be. Was it a quiz fit for superfans? Tune in as they debate the trivia topics, share laughs about the quirky staff, and rave about their favorite drinks—from the refreshing Cyanide Cider to the smooth Chela Amber Lager.

With a cozy atmosphere and a fierce competitive spirit, Larkin and Momster recount their journey to snagging third place. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled episode packed with laughter, love, and a dash of Gilmore magic.

Thanks for listening, and remember to rate, review, and share the love!

Grab your coffee and settle in as we dive into the whirlwind world of The Real-Life Gilmore Girls! Ever been told you and your mom are basically Lorelai and Rory? Well, we were—despite never having watched the show! It took one fateful binge to realize, “Wait, are we watching our life?” From rapid-fire conversations and inside jokes to spontaneous pizza dinners on the couch, we explore our unique mom-daughter dynamic that’s packed with laughter and a sprinkle of chaos.

In this episode, we share our delightful reactions to key moments in the show, including our very own version of Luke’s Diner and the road trips that make us giggle. We’ll compare our lives to the Gilmore Girls—trust funds? Nope! But we do have vibes and Pizza to keep us fueled.

Join us for a fun trivia showdown and a fast-talking debate over team Jess vs. Dean. Plus, we’ll reveal our dream jobs in Stars Hollow! So, are we the Gilmore Girls? Pretty much—just with more Netflix binges and fewer fancy dinners. Tune in, and let’s celebrate the beautiful mess that is our relationship!

And don’t forget, if you’ve ever been compared to your favorite TV duo, we want to hear about it! Copper boom!

Music isn’t just sound—it’s time travel. Today, we’re diving into the songs that shaped my mom’s life, the anthems that filled our home, and how her music became mine… and mine became hers. From nostalgic throwbacks to unexpected cross-generational bops, we’re exploring how the soundtrack of our youth stays with us forever. So, what songs take you back? Tune in and take a trip down memory lane with us! 🎶✨

This week, we’re deep in the chaos... The Epitome of Mr. Toads Wild Ride. We explore the realms of medical mayhem, political exhaustion, and the unpredictable rollercoaster of life. Larkin is five days post-op, feeling like a claw machine went rogue inside her, while Momster recalls her own action-movie appendix explosion. From surrendering to surgery to surviving leadership voids, we’re talking healing—messy, non-linear, and absolutely necessary. Shoutouts to caretakers, the power of rest, and the reminder that fear means keep going. Whether you're recovering from surgery, burnout, or democracy crumbling—you're not alone. Rate, review, subscribe, and let’s get through this together!

Happy Black History Month!

Here is a curated list of Nashville's locally owned Black businesses to support: https://urbaanite.com/black-owned-businesses-in-nashville-to-shop-on-black-friday-beyond/

If you or someone you know could use support or a compassionate listener, consider exploring BetterHelp for professional and accessible mental health resources.

https://www.betterhelp.com/

Today’s episode is packed with love, laughs, and a whole lot of wisdom. We’re sipping on Our Daily Cab, a thoughtful gift from our dear friend Steve. With dark fruit notes of plum and blackberry, plus a touch of toasted vanilla, it’s preservative-free, gluten-free, and vegan—a wine as pure as the friendships that gift it. ❤️🍇

Speaking of friends, we’re thrilled to welcome Amanda, our tiny house host and fearless single mom to two boys (including a 16-year-old navigating adolescence). Amanda shares her journey of raising sons, the lessons she’s learned, and how she’s thriving in a world that doesn’t always make it easy.

We dive into:
💡 What it’s like raising boys, especially if you grew up surrounded by girls.
📚 Expert advice for supporting boys’ growth, from encouraging positive male role models to setting healthy boundaries.
⚽ Why sports, freedom, and embracing failure can help boys become resilient, well-rounded individuals.
🌟 Celebrating the unique personalities of her boys and how they’ve shaped her as a mom.

Whether you’re a single parent, raising boys, or just looking for heartwarming insights and a few good laughs, this episode is for you. Parenting is never one-size-fits-all, but Amanda’s story reminds us of the beauty in embracing our kids for who they truly are.

Cheers to good friends, great wine, and raising kind, resilient humans. 🥂

For more resources, Secureteen.com recommends the following for single moms:
Create Clear Boundaries: Do Not Keep Checking on Them
Do Not Talk Negative About His Father
Make Them Do Their Own Things
Plan Fun Activities For Them/Play Sports w Them
Give Them Freedom – to Succeed & Fail
Every child is different… and parenting any child requires knowing and accepting them for who
they in spite of how they are. These are good suggestions for raising any teen. Speaking of
different children how are you boys different?

Thank you for listening!! We’d love to hear your stories about being a son of a single mom or a
single mom of boys.
Remember to rate, review, subscribe, & and share!

Today’s Wine - Do Epic Shit Sparkling Wine American Methode
Champenoise
From the Browne Family Vineyards… the finish is clean and sophisticated with a subtle minerality, lingering impressions of toasted hazelnuts, revealing enticing aromas of green apple, lemon zest, and ripe pear intertwined with notes of brioche, toasted almond, and a hint of white flowers.

After two intense episodes filled with deep emotion, we’re shifting gears to something a little more… mysterious. This week, we’re diving into the weird, wonderful world of unexplained phenomena. 👀✨

Déjà vu? Yep, we’re talking about it. That spine-tingling feeling of “wait… haven’t I been here before?” Science might chalk it up to the brain’s memory quirks, but where’s the fun in that? Instead, let’s embrace the spooky, psychic possibilities—we’re looking at you, Emile Boirac. (Did you know he coined "déjà vu" in 1876? Fun fact alert! 🚨📚)

Whether it’s moments of déjà vu, shadowy presences, or unexplainable coincidences, we’re sharing our personal and collective brushes with the unknown. And who knows? Being from a place that celebrates the mysterious might just make us experts in the unexplained.

So light a candle, grab a crystal (or just your headphones), and tune in. Because life’s a lot more fun when you leave a little room for the unexplained. 🎙️✨

Have a story of your own? Drop it in the comments or DM us—we might just feature it in a future episode!

In today’s episode, we uncork a bottle of Seven Moons Red Blend, a smooth and fruity wine with notes of cherry, raspberry, mocha, and vanilla bean—perfect for reflecting on life’s phases, just like the moon’s ever-changing cycle. As we sip, we dive into a topic that has left us emotional: the devastating impact of the California wildfires.

Though we often use humor to keep things light, today’s conversation is filled with sadness as we discuss the losses faced by friends, families, and communities in the wake of the fires. Both of us spent 16 ½ years in Los Angeles, a place we consider home, and the heartbreak of watching the destruction from afar is overwhelming. The fires have left countless individuals and families without homes, jobs, and memories, and we can’t help but think of the animals—pets trapped in homes and wildlife affected by the flames.

We also express our deep gratitude for the firefighters who have risked so much to save lives, homes, and beloved pets. Crews from all over, including Canada, are stepping in, but the battle is far from over, and the air quality remains hazardous. Our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone still evacuated and in danger.

To help, we highlight a few ways you can donate:

• California Community Foundation Wildfire Recovery Fund: www.calfund.org
• Pasadena Humane Society Wildfire Fund: www.give.pasadenahumane.org

We also mention GoFundMe accounts set up to support specific families:

• Help the Fowler Family Rebuild (James Fowler, Larkin’s high school friend) – Altadena
• Help Alle’s Family: Lost Everything in California Fires (Alle Rhames Weldy, former Alzheimer’s LA colleague) – Pacific Palisades

While many more GoFundMe campaigns are out there, these families are among those we know personally, and we encourage you to contribute if you’re able. Every bit helps, and the need is great.

We hope this episode brings awareness to the ongoing crisis and reminds us all that even in times of tragedy, there’s still hope in coming together to support one another.

Today’s Wine: Emendis Robert de Nola, Cava Brut Rosé

Today’s wine is the Emendis Robert de Nola Cava Brut Rosé. With its bright salmon color and fine bubbles, this cava offers rich aromas of wild berries and red currant. On the palate, it’s slightly piquant with spicy notes, balanced acidity, and a long, brioche-like finish. A refreshing and elegant choice for any occasion.

In this heartfelt episode, we reflect on the aftermath of the New Year’s tragedy in New Orleans—a city that has endured so much, yet continues to rise with unmatched strength and spirit. As we honor those whose lives were lost or forever changed, we also take a moment to celebrate what makes New Orleans truly special: its people. From the warmth of a "darlin'," "honey," or "baby" to the unwavering sense of community, this city embraces everyone like family, no matter where they’re from or who they are. We dive into the unique culture of NOLA, where generosity and authenticity are woven into every interaction, making this city one of a kind. Join us as we explore the resilience, love, and joy that make New Orleans a place unlike any other, and why the true essence of "Laissez les bon temps rouler" is so much more than just a motto—it's a way of life.


In light of the recent tragedy, there are ways we can all help the victims and their families. Consider donating blood through The Blood Center in New Orleans (thebloodcenter.org) or your local Red Cross (redcrossblood.org) to assist those in need. Additionally, many families have set up GoFundMe accounts to cover funeral expenses. Today, we want to highlight two families who are left with young children: Nicole Perez, who leaves behind her son, Melo, and Reggie Hunter, who leaves behind two young sons. Their GoFundMe pages are among the top results if you search their names. We’re donating to these funds because it’s unimaginable for children to lose a parent. Every little bit helps.

Featuring: We read this off the bottle that night so I don’t have the info .  It’s in the audio though.

As true crime junkies, we thought “wouldn’t it be fun to see if there are any moms and daughters working together fighting crime?”  Guess what…  we found three pairs of amazing duos!  Daughters in Corpus Christi, New York City, and New Zealand were inspired to follow in their mothers’ footsteps and join law enforcement.  Join us as we learn what motivated them to protect and serve!

 

Episode 21 – New Beginnings NOT Resolutions

Featuring:  KRIS Pinot Grigio - grigio means gray in Italian yet this wine is bursting with colorful aromas and flavors developed in high vineyards of the Veneto region.

Recorded on Friday the 13th aka Good Luck Day, this episode is about why New Year’s resolutions fail yet new beginnings create opportunities for longer lasting change. You’ll also learn who really wrote some of the lyrics to Semisonic’s “Closing Time.”  As we begin 2025, we hope you experience the blessings of positive new beginnings!

Episode 20 -  Yule Better Watch Out/ A Very Merry Solstice


Featuring: Fratelli Cosmo Prosecco DOC Extra Dry - from grapes cultivated on the hilly slopes north of Venice in Italy, prosecco is an ideal apertif wine. It’s firm structure and body admirably suit it for partnering with antipasta, veggies and fish.
It’s the happiest time of the year!  

There’s a chill in the air, a Yule log is burning, a Yule cat is howling, and we celebrate the Winter Solstice is on the 22nd, Christmas is on the 25th, Hanukkah begins that same day, and many places around the world revel in the season.  The days are shorter yet the history behind how we came to recognize this wondrous time of the year is longer than a kid’s list for Santa!  Join us as we share a bit about how the Norse, the Germans, the Celts, and others created the traditions we continue to enjoy today

Episode 19 - An Odd Lot of Vigilante Moms

Featuring:  Odd Lot Cab Syrah
 
Wine, like politics, makes odd bed fellows. This big, red blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon and 48% Syrah is an audacious partnership that defies gravity.  Are you bold enough to be odd?

There's nothing quite like a mother who goes to the ends of the earth to make her daughter's killer pay for their crime. Because the Lark and her Momster LOVE their true crime, it was a curious topic. While it's debatable the Momster would go that far, these three women did. Hear the stories of Marianne Bachmeier, Maria del Carmen Garcia, and Miriam Rodrigues Martinez. 
Disclaimer:  We don't condone violence for any reason, yet fully understand how these moms were compelled to seek vigilante justice. 

Featuring: Rough Day Sparkling Extra Brut
 
WHEN YOU JUST CAN'T! a refreshingly bright sparkler with inviting floral aromas and citrus fruit flavors, made using the charmat method (like prosecco).

Since we recorded on Thanksgiving, this episode focuses on the psychological and physiological benefits of GRATITUDE.  Learn how spending a small amount of time daily can boost your feelings of positivity and change your brain for the better. You'll also hear  Lark singing snippets from WICKED (we saw it earlier in the day. and she sang all the way home so it's only fair our listeners have to experience what Momster did, lol). 

How Gratitude Changes You and Your Brain

greatergood.berkeley.ed

Featuring: Magic Box Red Blend
an expressive red with aromas of black fruit, hints of vanilla, and oaky undertones with a concentrated palate of dark fruit and spices.

Today's episode title comes straight from our wonderful guest, Dee, a talented artist and first generation Asian American. She shares the challenges of being raised by an immigrant, single mom who, despite her love of Dee, struggled with her own generational trauma in raising her daughter.  Dee's story reminds us that cultural differences exist, and while we can celebrate them, we can also learn from them. As she says, sometimes we have to find our way or become our own fine wine produced by us. Want to learn more about the intergenerational divergence in a world where they can be blessings or lessons, we recommend reading: The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan; Little Fires Everywhere by Celest NG; and Wild Swans by Jung Chang.  Check out Dee's artwork: Instagram @dee.en.planet

Featuring: Gemma Di Lune Sparkling Moscato  –  an effervescent wine with a touch of sparkles and aromas of ripe peaches, orange blossoms, and a hint of tropical fruit.  It has a delicate and refreshing finish.

Women and money!  This episode came about after Momster attended a local event called The Wealth of a Woman which reminded her how far women have come yet how far they still have to go in creating a healthy mindset around money. A Lark and her Momster discuss how woman have only been truly independent from their husbands or fathers for only 50 years!  Today’s women have greater opportunity yet still struggle with learning how to have a positive relationship with saving and investing.

https://www.npr.org/2024/10/28/nx-s1-5163432/smithsonians-new-series-is-tied-to-50th-anniversary-of-equal-credit-opportunity-act

https://institute.bankofamerica.com/content/dam/transformation/rising-wealth-of-women.pdf

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/state-women-money-2023-120046529.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAEfEJpnOlskmJhRkI-8S_PXCRcbU2CyKJIqI_dBUwRaqwRYPBqLfh8TWFy_yHQLR3Rhd4-bxPfS_0pPpie4y-08yYlmVHQnMLv3pLtoMfTG_HhU20-ZiQhSKy9gk1XHy2QeQ54QGZIC0BazXiEWdrR5nDTGkwYHIiNNVhnLNUoa8

https://thewealthofawoman.com/

Featuring: Terregaie Prosecco – an elegant, dry sparkling wine with more length to the palate.  Fresh bosc pears, acacia aromas pare with an integrated mousse that’s to die for (but not literally).

This week we were privileged to host Emelie and Carol who shared their insights into being one another’s “gifts.”  Emelie experienced a traumatic childhood that included foster care.  Carol had two biological teen daughters when Emelie was reintroduced into their lives.  Their families and lives had intertwined in the past yet it was when Emelie was in high school the connection became permanent (even if not legal).  Their candid and sweet story reminds us that families can be made not just born, and blood isn’t thicker than water.

Join us for this  heartwarming episode!

Featuring: Lavender by Wines of the San Juan – a truly unique blend of white grapes and lavender creates a fun and beautiful presentation of a dry wine, delicately balanced, elegant, and relaxing.  Thank you Jared!!

In this episode, Lark and Momster share past experiences “could” have placed them in peril (yet obviously didn’t since they now host this podcast). In the late ‘70s and ‘80s Momster had several adventures with friends involving substances, and Lark went on an international adventure with a guy who could have been a serial killer (but just turned out to be a narcissist).  Momster shares why our brains can make less than optimal decisions as we move into adulthood and the research that tells us why that is.

https://www.rosettainstitute.org/brain-development-continues-until-age-30/

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/the-teen-brain-7-things-to-know#:~:text=Although%20the%20brain%20stops%20growing,the%20last%20parts%20to%20mature.

https://academic.oup.com/cercor/article/33/13/8089/7152341

Don’t do what we did!!

Featuring: 19 Crimes Limited Edition, Glow in the Dark  The Bride of Frankenstein Red Blend & Frankenstein Cabernet  -  the Bride is rich and round with a soft fruity finish along with sweet aromatics and notes of chocolate, and Frankenstein is firm and filled with a dark berry fruit finish along with flavors of red currant, dark cherries, and chocolate. Both were fun and delicious!

Our friends Kristen (a community advocate, nonprofit executive, and a single mom) and Izzy (a high school student, fashionista, artistic soul, and a big sister to Lindel) were our guests.  They shared their mother/daughter relationship from one another’s perspectives. We learned that despite adolescence being a potentially challenging developmental stage in life, Izzy is doing pretty well because she’s got a mom who encourages and trusts her.  Kristen shared what scares her most about having a teen in today’s world.  Together they’re lovingly working through the ups and downs of life after a divorce, kids navigating two very different households, peer pressures, and ultimately how kids “grow with what their given” (Izzy’s words).

Join us for an inspiring episode!

Featuring:   Witches Brew… Spiced Red Wine  -   popular wine for fall or winter, mulled & layered, an aromatic celebration of traditional autumn spices.  Try it room temp, warm, or devilishly hot!

Chances are many people don’t know the connection between the Celtic celebration of Samhain (pronounced Sah win or Sow in) which marks the onset of Winter and our current celebration of Halloween.  It’s both Lark and Momster’s favorite holiday. It’s also a time when there’s a “threshold” between this world and the one beyond (if you believe that kind of thing) and the opportunity to honor those who’ve gone before us. We also share how Celtic children’s (Skeklers) use of animal skins and straw while dancing to neighbors’ home and begging for gifts (Guising) was the impetus to dressing up for “trick or treating!”

Featuring:  Borarrasca Cava  -  produced using the traditional cava method, this wine represents authentic Spanish quality and spends at least 9mos in the bottle before distribution. It’s crisp, clean, and well balanced with a

delicate aroma and unique freshness. The unmistakable taste leads from a full ripe apple, pear, and bright citrus nose, encouraging big, round, soft flavors in the mouth.  The finish is appealing and long with a slight touch of ginger. 

Larkin shares her struggles with both Lupus and mental health diagnoses and the value of having a celebrity like Selena Gomez through her recent documentary validate the fears and frustrations that go along with medical issues that aren’t always “visible.”  Momster communicates what the Mayo Clinic says about Lupus including the links between Lupus and depression/anxiety as well as ongoing research into how autoimmune issues like Lupus affect the brain’s ability to regulate emotions.  Together they share the impact Lupus and Larkin’s mental health have had on their relationship.

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lupus/symptoms-causes/syc-20365789

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selena_Gomez:_My_Mind_%26_Me

Featuring:   Cantaora Cava  -  lemon and cidery aromas are solid and draw you in!  The palate has a fresh, clean feel and lively, tangy flavors of citrus, green fruits, and green herbs .Zesty, a bit lemony, and balanced on the finish.

Today’s episode offers a lively discussion into the importance of “magic” in our everyday lives. Momster shares some history about how magic evolved across the centuries (from one of the first references in 2700 BC to our current use of “magic” in describing things that delight and inspire us), is sometimes connected to the occult, and how women who were healers or intuitives over the centuries were accused of using magic… and punished for it. Lark shares how magic can be found in the simple things like nature, spending quality time with those we love, and/or watching our fur babies grow. We hope our listeners will share what makes their days more magical!

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_magic

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Discoverie_of_Witchcraft

Featuring: Misfits and Mavens Pinot Noir  -  light ruby in color with vivid pops of strawberry, raspberry, and vanilla notes. It’s a medium bodies and juicy combination of red fruits laced with hints of clove, spice, and tobacco.

Have you ever had a gut feeling you didn’t follow… or one you did?  Today’s episode Larkin shares the recent consequences of not listening to her gut and touches on the importance of differentiating between our gut feelings and anxiety, along with how biology factors into our intuition. We share information about how overthinking can be a deterrent to listening to our intuition, suggestions on how to tap into it, along with actual experiences our listeners shared.

Links to articles:  https://www.forbes.com/sites/melodywilding/2023/12/05/how-to-stop-overthinking-and-start-trusting-your-gut/

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/contributors/yvonne-castaneda-msw-licsw

Featuring: Snoop Dog’s 19 Crimes Cali Gold  -  floral and citrus aromas, subtle nuttiness, and toast, the flavors are round and rich with tropical fruit, lemon, and green apples, all coming to a long, crisp, citrus finish.

This episode is totally unscripted because IT HAD BEEN A WEEK!!  Larkin shares how new opportunities don’t always turn out the way we expect them to, the value of being specific about what you manifest, the challenges of adulting (continued), and why it’s important to own our mistakes. There’s a discussion about Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice highlighting the importance of mother/daughter relationships… the struggles and the beauty that comes from sharing our feelings and being true to ourselves. There’s also a conversation about the difference between “specific” and “pacific” in articulation and manifesting.

Featuring: Longevity Blanc de Blanc, Methodé Champinoise  -  it’s a lifestyle all about loving what you live and living what you love; it’s about the experience and living, loving, sharing the experience with others. Grapes are harvested at optimal ripeness with low sugar and high acid and the nose detests yeasty bread, along with green apples and crisp citrus notes through the many tiny bubbles.

Body image is a struggle for many and this episode touches on the intergenerational messages that can impact children’s self awareness around their bodies.  Lark and her Momster delve into their own histories with body image, negative comments, peer comments, and the research that demonstrates just how unhealthy this messaging can be even for children as young as 2 years old.  Momster shared about a CNN video featuring a fashion historian discussing how mannequins shapes morph to meet cultural and fashion norms and research that emphasizes the importance of parents focusing health rather than body size.  Links to the video and research are in the show notes.

https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/parenting/body-image-issues-in-children-and-teens/

https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/articles/body-image-report-executive-summary/body-image-childhood

https://www.cnn.com/2024/08/21/style/video/mannequin-body-image-evolution-digvid

Featuring: Pacific Rim Sweet Reisling  -  not shy around spice and dares you to bring on the heat with its aromas of honeysuckle and shite flowers, juicy peach, and pineapple flavors along with refreshing acidity.  Plus it has a really cool label!

Traveling together regardless of the type of relationship offers a shift away from the typical and revitalizes us as individuals and in our relationships (Psychology Today). This ideas comes from the “self-expansion” theory which suggests people ae innately motivated to grow, and we grow through new skills, ideas, and perspectives, as well as through meeting new people. It’s all about the quality of the experience.  Lark and her Momster discuss how traveling together in the past and today create/d lifelong and often hysterical memories that help them maintain a positive mother/daughter experience.

Writing Legibly
Generational differences in writing reflect where our countries priorities lie.  Increases in technology are creating a lack of penmanship (it’s real folks)… prior to the 20th Century, everyone used a more floral writing style (Spencerian) and after the 1900’s people embraced the Palmer method which used smaller, more concise cursive style.  Today cursive isn’t even taught in schools!

Featuring: Wines of the San Juan, Girls are Meaner… sent to us by a listener! Pays homage to the perseverance and passion the women in our lives show us each day – exotically fruity, a little spicy, and a whole lot of sweetness (just like us!)

Adulting
A lengthy discussion focused on the opportunities and challenges related to evolving into adulthood and what we wish we knew before it happens (81% of college grads wish they’d learned more life skills before graduation).  Topics include Budgeting (Help!), Health Insurance (It’s so expensive), Cooking (or not), and Developing Interpersonal Skills (like having difficult conversations with student loan reps!)

Featuring: Bread & Butter Prosecco -a product of Italy, near Venice, this shimmering, delicately fruity sparkler has floral and citrus aromas followed by likely yet soft notes of ripe apple, pear, and white peach balanced with refreshing acidity

Middle School Melo”trauma”

For many girls, middle school relationships are fraught with bullying and cliques creating both melodrama and long term trauma during critical developmental years. Lark & her Momster discuss the long term impact these experiences can have on young women.

 This episode we’re featuring Leitz’ Eins Zwei Zero Sparkling Rose, a nonalcoholic sparkler that exudes cool, red fruits and lean minerality with notes of rose hips and sky berries.

Every daughter needs a dad or dad figure in their lives… this episode touches on how not having that important relationship can impact girls’ self-images and later relationships.

Today’s episode is featuring Love Noir, a Pinot Noir with robust, jammy flavors of dark cherry and expresso spark intensity and intrigue and lead to a smooth, balanced finish with soft hints of vanilla and toasted oak.

Single parenting ain't easy, so in this episode we will discuss the Momster's struggles and joys of raising a child as a single mom and how the Lark felt being raised by a single mom.

This will be a discussion delving into the challenges of single parenting along with how single parents can help their children thrive… it also touches on how nature vs nurture impacts children’s development.

Our wine today is Indigenous Prosecco which has a nicely evolving creaminess with notes of candied apple and white peach elegantly balanced with a crisp minerality.

Welcome to A Lark and Her Momster!
The Teaser Trailer.. 
The beginning where we don't really know what we are doing or how we are doing it... but we are doing it!
We are excited to share the ins and outs, the ups and downs of mother/ daughter relationships and what you can expect from future episodes!
Come share a glass of vino with us, laugh with us and we hope you enjoy the show!