In a year where the news cycle feels relentless, parents are asking themselves: How do we stay informed, speak out, and still protect our kids’ mental health? 

Episode 8 of Odd Moms On Call brings Chelsea Myers, Britt Sandoval, Lindsey Basler, and Jess Rabon together to unpack the headlines and share their lived experiences of parenting in political chaos.

The No Kings Movement: A Turning Point

The conversation kicks off with the nationwide No Kings Movement protests. Millions marched in cities and small towns alike, standing up for democracy, LGBTQ+ rights, immigrant protections, and voting access.

The Odd Moms discuss their own participation — from marching with kids to supporting from home — and the factors that go into deciding whether to bring children to demonstrations. For some, it’s about firsthand civic engagement; for others, it’s about ensuring their kids’ safety while still modeling activism in other ways.

Talking to Kids About Activism

One of the main threads running through the episode is how to make activism age-appropriate. That can mean explaining why people are marching, what signs mean, or how protesting can bring about change — without overwhelming younger kids. Britt emphasizes the importance of teaching children their role in democracy early on, while Chelsea reminds listeners that activism can take many forms beyond protest signs.

Global Crises

The panel turns to the bombings in Iran and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, both of which are emotionally charged topics for parents. Jess makes the point that caring about children in conflict zones doesn’t require full political expertise. 

“Starving a child is not a political stance.” 

Lindsey notes that these conversations can be especially challenging when kids overhear news coverage, so parents have to filter information while still fostering empathy and awareness.

Martial Law and Marriage Equality

Closer to home, Trump’s declaration of martial law in D.C. sparks fears about militarized policing, detainment camps, and parallels to authoritarian regimes. The moms share their unease at the historical implications and what it means for civil liberties. 

Equally concerning is the petition to overturn Obergefell v. Hodges, the landmark ruling that legalized same-sex marriage. For Britt, as a queer parent, this threat feels deeply personal. The panel discusses the emotional toll of seeing hard-won rights under attack.

Finding Joy in the Heavy Moments

Despite the weight of these topics, the episode ends with a focus on resilience. The Odd Moms talk about seeking “glimmers” — those small, joyful moments that keep burnout at bay. Whether it’s looking forward to a Taylor Swift album drop, enjoying a quiet coffee, or setting aside intentional time for rest, they emphasize that joy is not frivolous — it’s fuel for continued advocacy.

Resources for Parents

The panel shares several resources for parents looking to engage in activism or talk to their kids about tough topics:

• Little Justice Leaders – activism resources for families
• A Kids Book About… – accessible introductions to social justice topics
• UNICEF – information on global humanitarian efforts
• Vote Mama Foundation – supporting parents in politics
• Muzzy Brand Dolls – creating opportunities to explore empathy through celebrating culture.
  

Why This Episode Matters

Parenting in 2025 means navigating an information-heavy world while protecting kids from despair. No Kings, Big Consequences offers solidarity for parents trying to do both. It’s a reminder that raising informed, empathetic kids is just as important as raising resilient ones — and that rest and joy are forms of resistance, too.🎧

Listen to Episode 6 of Odd Moms On Call on BuzzSprout or wherever you get your podcasts.