The Unplanned Podcast with Matt & Abby Parenting through grief, career vs. motherhood, and raising confident kids - with the Abbys
Jan 9, 2026
The hosts dive into the difficult topic of parenting through grief, sharing personal stories and insights that resonate deeply. They analyze a poignant Kelsea Ballerini song that triggers reflections on family and regrets. The conversation shifts to the pros and cons of starting families young, highlighting the strength and resilience gained from these choices. They explore the challenges of balancing career ambitions with motherhood, emphasizing the importance of modeling pride in work to raise confident children.
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Choices Carry Hidden Costs
- Kelsea Ballerini's song revealed that every major life choice has a cost and people often envy each other's trade-offs.
- Abby Howard and Abby Howard found relief in accepting that you can't truly "have it all," just balance costs intentionally.
Surprise Pregnancy During Business Struggles
- Abby Howard told how an unexpected pregnancy at 26 came when her business was failing and felt terrifying at the time.
- She now feels grateful she started her family young and values the changed perspective it brought.
Talk About Work With Pride
- Do model pride in your work to show children that work is valuable and to boost their confidence.
- Tell kids plainly when you’re going to work and frame it as purposeful rather than apologetic.