Ever spend Sunday meal prepping only to order pizza by Tuesday? Yeah... me too. In this episode, I'm getting real about why those Pinterest-perfect meal prep systems fail us busy moms and what actually works instead. I share my "Base + Options" method that's saved my sanity, plus the story of my client Jessica who finally broke free from the meal prep dropout cycle after 8 months of "failures." Spoiler alert: it involves accepting that done beats perfect every single time. If you're tired of feeling like a meal prep failure or just want a more flexible approach to feeding yourself and your family, this episode is for you.💜
• Why traditional meal prep was never designed for real moms
• My "Base + Options" method that turns one protein prep into endless meals
• The Power Hour concept - why 60 minutes beats Sunday meal prep marathons
• Three different prep styles based on YOUR energy that week
• My Deconstructed Meal approach for picky families
• How to batch cook strategically (like how 2 lbs of chicken = 5-6 different meals)
• Why "emergency backups" are actually meal prep essentials
• The mindset shift from "I failed" to "I learned what doesn't work"
• Flexibility beats perfection in meal prep
• Match your prep style to your energy level each week
• Components > complete meals for busy families
• Strategic shortcuts (pre-cut veggies!) aren't lazy - they're smart
• One consistent prep hour beats sporadic marathon sessions
Pick just ONE strategy from this episode. Maybe it's scheduling your Power Hour. Maybe it's buying pre-cut veggies without guilt. Maybe it's just boiling a dozen eggs. Whatever speaks to you, do that ONE thing consistently this week.
• "The best meal prep system is the one you'll actually do."
• "Lower the bar so you can actually clear it."
• "Every 'failed' meal prep attempt is just information about what doesn't work for YOUR life."
• "Adaptability isn't a compromise - it's actually a superpower."
• FREE Mindset Reset Toolkit - Break the all-or-nothing cycle for good!
• Flexible Meal Prep Bonus Guide (included with the toolkit this week!)
• Macros Inc Facebook Group - Join our judgment-free community
• Macros Inc Coaching - For personalized nutrition support
Instagram: @catharineadams
Use #MacroMindsetPodcast to share your meal prep wins (or your Tuesday pizza orders - no judgment!)
Strong, Not Bulky: Rewriting the Strength Story for Moms - I'm busting myths about women and weights, plus sharing how strength training transformed my entire mindset about aging.