Rydel's Van Talk

Rydel Funk

Van Talk is where motherhood meets real talk. We're a mother daughter duo, Stormie and Rydel. Hopping in our og van to talk all things parenting, family life, and the beautifully chaotic moments in between. Expect laughs, giggles, a little tea being spilled, and honest conversations about raising kids, raising ourselves, and doing it with love. Wanna ride? Hop in! This is mom talk with the windows down and you're riding shotgun!

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24 episodes
weekly
Avg 50 min
English

Episodes 24

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S1 · E43
Yesterday · 58 min
Ants Took Over Our House, "Man Flu," Pet Squirrel | EP 43
In this episode of Van Talk we get into co-parenting, step-parents, and what it means to have a true village of families and neighbors you can actually trust. Stormie shares what it was like raising us with amazing next-door neighbors and the kind of community where everyone looked out for each other’s kids.Then things get a little wild… literally. 😂 We’re talking house pets, backyard “pets,” Rydel’s pet squirrel Buster, ants infiltrating the house, mosquitoes everywhere, and accidentally ending up on toll roads when you have absolutely no idea you’re on a toll road.And of course, we have to discuss the “man flu.” Why is being sick as a mom VERY different from the boys being sick?! 😂We wrap it up with a conversation every tired mom can relate to: how do you keep going when you genuinely feel like you have nothing left in the tank?A little parenting, a little nostalgia, a lot of chaos, and another week of figuring out life together in the van. 🚐💛
S1 · E47
August 29 · 52 min
Raising Leaders, Dress For You, Caffeine Survival Mode | EP 42
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re embracing the fact that what we said last week might be completely different from what we’re saying this week. 😂 Motherhood changes, seasons change, and sometimes you can go a month without caffeine… and sometimes you’re surviving on it.We talk about giving yourself grace, dressing for YOU, and why putting a little effort into feeling your best can change your whole day. Plus, apparently Stormie’s favorite place to shop is Rydel’s giveaway pile. 😂Then it’s full mom talk: our stroller opinions for families with multiple kids, what we’d actually put on a baby registry, and some restaurant fiascos we’ve collected along the way.We also talk about taking the pressure off the oldest child while still encouraging them to be a leader. Instead of, “Everyone is copying you because you’re the oldest,” we love flipping it into, “Heck yeah, you’re being such a great leader and example!” And when it comes to affection, kids never have to hug or kiss someone just because an adult asks. A high five, a wave, or a happy goodbye works too.
S1 · E46
August 19 · 43 min
ARE YOU FUN TO BE AROUND!? Backseat Drivers, Famous VS Successful | EP 41
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re starting with some very important business: driving pet peeves, backseat drivers, and our attempts at simply living our best passenger-princess lives. 😂🚗Then we get into the mindset that helps us move through life without dwelling on everything that goes wrong. From starting the day with affirmations or a guided journal to asking yourself a surprisingly important question, “Am I fun to be around?”We talk about how traveling the world taught us patience and how to go with the flow, because when you travel enough, you learn that something WILL eventually go wrong. It’s how you respond that changes the experience.We also dive into the words we use with our kids and why we don’t want to accidentally teach them to see themselves as victims. Instead of “Poor you, you’re not in the band anymore,” what if it’s, “Heck yeah dude, you’re the manager now! You’re killing it!” Same situation, completely different story.And finally, we look back at the transition from being a “normal” family to suddenly being recognized everywhere, and why the goal was always to be successful, never to be famous.
S1 · E43
August 15 · 52 min
Kids Remember Everything, Homeschooling, R5Family Forever | EP 40
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about something that matters at every age: trust.Kids remember EVERYTHING, which is why keeping your word matters so much. We talk about not making empty promises to kids, holding the people around them accountable too, and teaching kids to listen to their own bodies and recognize when something doesn’t make them feel good.We also get into homeschooling, what it’s like raising kids close in age, and some of the choices we make as our families grow.Then we take a major trip down memory lane! We’re answering questions about our favorite R5 and The Driver Era songs, spilling some Austin & Ally lore, reminiscing about tour life, and talking about the R5 Family and what made that era so special.A little parenting, a LOT of nostalgia, and plenty of stories from the road. 🚐🎸
S1 · E39
July 31 · 44 min
Push Through The Hard Parenting, Dream Big, Was I Sad About R5 Ending? | EP 39
In this episode of Van Talk we share why preparing kids for transitions instead of surprising them can make everyday routines so much smoother, and reflect on the unforgettable moment a newborn is placed on your chest for the first time. The pain fades, the love takes over, and suddenly you understand why so many parents say it’s all worth it.We also open up about mom doubt, pushing through difficult seasons of parenting, and why we believe consistency often matters more than taking the easy route in the moment.The conversation shifts to working with family as we share what it was like building a business with my brothers while protecting our relationships. From keeping business off the dinner table to staying close even after disagreements on tour. We also answer questions about the transition from R5 to The Driver Era, whether there were hard feelings, and how we navigated that season together.To wrap things up, we encourage everyone to make a bucket list and keep dreaming, because life is meant to be lived with intention, adventure, and gratitude.
S1 · E45
July 26 · 56 min
Postpartum Bodies, Stop Judging Moms, Parenting Basics | EP 38
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about why every family deserves a little more grace.From kids who are taller than their peers and get mistaken for being older, to toddlers who still have a pacifier, we discuss how quickly people can judge without knowing the full story.We also have an honest conversation about postpartum bodies, shapewear, weight fluctuations, and navigating comments about appearance online. Bodies change through different seasons of life, and learning to extend ourselves the same kindness we’d offer a friend can make all the difference.The conversation also covers simple parenting ideas for two-year-olds, setting expectations with guests before they arrive, respecting family routines like bedtime, and why supporting your mom friends sometimes means going with the flow instead of expecting life to work the way it did before kids.
S1 · E37
July 22 · 49 min
Unshakeable Confidence, No One Can Tip You Over, Love The Life You Have | EP 37
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about building the kind of confidence that isn’t based on appearance, achievements, or other people’s opinions. It’s about knowing who you are, what you stand for, and staying grounded no matter what life throws your way.We share why bullies don’t disappear after childhood, how to stand strong on your own two feet, and why teaching our kids confidence starts with modeling it ourselves.We also talk about the power of speaking life into others through genuine compliments, appreciating the body you’ve been given, and learning to love the life you’re living instead of always looking ahead.We discuss taking ownership after losing your patience, asking yourself, “What could I do better next time?” and choosing growth over guilt.And because it’s Van Talk, we couldn’t resist ending with a fun conversation about potential baby names that start with the letter E.
S1 · E35
July 18 · 1 hr
Navigating Relationships, Protecting Your Routine, Staying Present | EP 35
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about navigating relationships when two people come from completely different backgrounds and learning how to build a life together with grace, patience, and understanding.We discuss what happens when one person tends to shut down or sulk, why staying positive through every season of life matters, and how to remain present even when life doesn’t look exactly the way you imagined it would.We also share why protecting your daily routines can bring so much peace to your family. From bedtime with velcro kids to continuing the flow you’ve worked hard to create, we talk about the importance of keeping healthy habits consistent, even when schedules change or other people enter the picture.The conversation also touches on making time for yourself through girls’ nights, game nights, and adult friendships, because taking care of your relationships outside of parenting matters too.
S1 · E38
July 10 · 1 hr 2 min
Mom Guilt, Kids Don't Know What They Don't Know, Ex Girlfriends | EP 34
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about the traditions, routines, and relationships that help build a strong family for generations to come.We share why starting family traditions when kids are young creates memories they’ll carry into adulthood, and why making time for family meals and bedtime together has always been important to us.We also dive into some of parenting’s more emotional seasons: helping kids navigate grief and loss, supporting children through separation anxiety, encouraging healthy self-soothing, and understanding why kids often save their biggest emotions for mom.The conversation also explores respect across generations, including grandparents’ roles, family boundaries, teaching kids to respect their elders, and how to handle discipline when extended family is involved.We also talk honestly about working mom guilt, why kids don’t always know what they need yet, and how being intentional with our words, expectations, and daily routines helps create a home where children feel safe, loved, and secure.
S1 · E33
July 4 · 38 min
0-4 Kids, Lead By Example, Future Mother-In-Law | EP 33
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re catching up on everything from family life to exciting career updates.We talk about what it’s really like going from zero kids to one, then one to two, and beyond, and how each season of parenting brings its own challenges and joys. We also share updates on the R5 reunion tour, Van Talk meet-and-greets, and will Rydel have a country album?The conversation turns to the future as we talk about what kind of mother-in-law Stormie hopes to be and how she envisions balancing time with all of her growing family one day.We also share our experiences transitioning toddlers away from bottles and pacifiers, including what worked, what we’d do differently, and a fun Build-A-Bear idea that made the process more memorable.Throughout the episode, we discuss the importance of explaining the “why” behind family rules instead of simply saying “because I said so,” modeling good manners, teaching kids to respond when spoken to, and creating a home where positive, respectful communication is the standard.
S1 · E32
July 3 · 45 min
Finding Your Style Postpartum, Get Ready Everyday, Stay True To Yourself | EP 32
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about finding your style after having kids and why taking just a few minutes to get ready each morning can completely change the way you feel about your day. We share our favorite everyday styles, why dressing for yourself matters, and how staying true to who you are doesn’t stop when you become a mom. The conversation also dives into the power of leading by example. The habits we hope our children develop often start with us. Whether it’s getting dressed for the day, limiting phone use, moving our bodies, or choosing healthy routines, kids learn far more from what we consistently do than what we simply tell them. We also talk about self-control, making lasting lifestyle changes instead of chasing quick fixes, and giving yourself grace along the way. It’s not about perfection. It’s about building habits that last a lifetime. And finally, we share why having a supportive spouse who cheers you on and loves you through every season makes all the difference.
S1 · E31
June 27 · 44 min
Reading Spicy Comments, The Question Every Couple Should Ask, Building A Home They Love | EP 31
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re responding to some of the internet’s spicier comments and setting the record straight on a few topics just for funsies. We also talk about relationships, including one question we believe every couple should ask if the relationship feels like it’s standing still instead of moving forward.The conversation turns to family life, from bedtime routines and navigating the newborn stage to helping babies settle into a schedule after six months, even if you’ve never followed one before.We also share why we love making our home the fun house, creating an environment our kids genuinely enjoy being part of, and how we try to raise confident kids who stay humble, encourage others, and feel supported in whatever they love.
June 21 · 47 min
Secret Birth Story Revealed, Meeting My Brothers, Fathers Day Special | EP 30
In this special Father’s Day episode of Van Talk, we’re joined by my husband to talk about love, family, fatherhood, and some stories we’ve never shared before. We take it back to the beginning, from our first time meeting to the unforgettable experience of him meeting my brothers, cousins, and giant family. We also revisit our first date and some of the moments that made us realize this relationship was different. Capron shares favorite memories with each of our kids, what fatherhood has taught him. The conversation also includes the true story of our firstborn’s birth, we've never told you guys this before!
S1 · E27
June 18 · 59 min
The Two Times We Almost Died, Stories We'll Never Forget, Fathers Day Special | EP 29
In this special Father’s Day episode of Van Talk, Dad joins us along with the brothers for a walk down memory lane. We share some of our favorite memories growing up, the funniest one-on-one trips we’ve taken with him, and the stories that have become family legends over the years. Including a couple of moments where things got a little too close for comfort and somehow became even funnier with time. We talk about what being a father means, the lessons he learned from his own life experiences, and the catchphrases we’ve all heard so many times that they’ve become part of our everyday vocabulary. The conversation also dives into one of his biggest beliefs: you get what you think about. We discuss mindset, optimism, taking ownership of your thoughts, and how controlling what enters your mind can ultimately shape the life you create.
S1 · E28
June 16 · 46 min
Parenting Isn't One-Size-Fits-All, Trust Your Parenting, Every Kid Is Different | EP 28
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about flexibility in parenting and why it’s okay to change your mind as you learn and grow. We share why every child is different, how something that works beautifully for one kid might not work for another, and why being willing to try new things can make all the difference. We also talk potty training tips, including why a portable potty chair can be a lifesaver in those early stages, and ways to help quieter kids feel comfortable opening up, sharing, and finding their voice. The conversation touches on screen time, dance, outside opinions, and why we believe parents should feel confident making decisions that fit their own family. We also discuss the importance of always having your child’s back, especially when relatives or other adults make comments that don’t sit right. We share thoughts on hosting gatherings, handling feelings of being left out, and navigating the reality that both parents and kids will have off days. Sometimes growth isn’t linear, and sometimes you have to go back and reinforce the family standards you’ve been working on all along.
S1 · E23
June 11 · 46 min
Teaching Respect, No Tantrums In Public, Teen Sex Talk | EP 27
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about respect, boundaries, and raising kids who can confidently navigate the world around them. We share one of our favorite family tools, the interrupt rule in a car setting, and how it helps conversations flow while teaching kids patience and respect. We also talk about sharing, sibling dynamics, and making sure older kids have space to create, build, and enjoy their interests without being constantly interrupted by younger siblings. The conversation also dives into parenting in public, helping toddlers learn appropriate behavior without constant power struggles, and why letting kids get away with everything isn’t actually doing them any favors long term. We discuss maintaining a positive mindset through difficult seasons, including navigating serious life challenges, and why perspective matters so much. We also touch on how we approach conversations with teenagers about growing up, relationships, personal boundaries, and family values.
S1 · E26
June 8 · 42 min
Helping Kids Do Hard Things, Swim Lessons, Passing Down Good Habits | EP 26
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about the difference between coasting through life and being proactive about it.From swim lessons with babies and toddlers to everyday parenting moments, we share why we believe in helping kids move through things that feel uncomfortable instead of immediately pulling them out. Not forcing, not pushing, but gently encouraging them forward until confidence starts to grow. We also discuss how important it is for everyone around a child to be on the same team. When a child is learning a new skill or working through a fear, teasing and negativity can undo a lot of progress. Sometimes what kids need most is encouragement, positivity, and someone who believes in them.The conversation also touches on passing healthy habits down to our children and how so much of parenting comes back to leading by example.
S1 · E25
June 3 · 47 min
"Can I Try Again?", No Victim Mentality, Prioritizing Marriage | EP 25
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about helping kids move through emotions without getting stuck in them. We share the idea of having a reset spot, whether that’s a high chair, the stairs, a crib, or another calm place where kids can regroup and come back ready to try again. One of our favorite phrases? “Mom, can I try again?” The conversation also explores emotional resilience, avoiding a victim mentality, and teaching kids that feelings are real, but they don’t have to define the rest of the day. We also dive into marriage and family culture. From improving relationships with your parents to prioritizing your spouse after kids arrive, we share why protecting your marriage matters and why weekly date nights are worth fighting for. We talk about preparing your husband for postpartum before the baby arrives, the importance of support during that season, and why postpartum should be centered around mom and baby. And of course, we end with a potty training update and a few stories that prove parenting is never boring.
S1 · E24
May 25 · 46 min
Gold Stars For MOMS, Instilling Healthy Habits, The Interrupt Rule | EP 24
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re talking about the little moments in parenting that eventually turn into something big. Every milestone as a family, we share why we believe every win matters, big or small, individual or shared. And honestly? Moms deserve a gold star for the amount of invisible work they do every single day. We talk about the payoff moments in parenting, those days when you suddenly realize your kids are finally doing the things you’ve been patiently practicing with them all along. Greeting people confidently, looking others in the eye, saying thank you to compliments, shaking hands, brushing teeth, washing hands, building healthy habits… one day it finally clicks.We also share why kids are true sponges and why the habits we build early matter so much. If we can teach routines like bedtime and hygiene, we can also instill things like reading before bed, taking walks, gratitude, and confidence. The conversation also touches on helping kids push through the difficult beginning stages of learning a new skill until they finally experience the pride and joy of seeing themselves improve.
S1 · E23
May 18 · 51 min
Love At First Sight, Skydiving The Pyramids, Never Raising His Voice | EP 23
In this episode of Van Talk, we’re joined by a very special guest: Rydel's dad/ Stormie's husband MarkLynch!!! From skydiving over the pyramids to getting a pilots license in college, he shares stories from a life built around adventure, discipline, optimism, and pushing past fear.We talk about the lessons he learned from his dad, how years of selling books door-to-door for 14 hours a day shaped his mindset, and why constant rejection taught him the importance of controlling what enters your mind and staying positive no matter the circumstances.We also get into family values, why we weren’t allowed to do things like TP houses or ding dong ditch, and the importance of character even in the small things.The conversation naturally turns deeper, into love at first sight, the “secret to life,” staying optimistic through challenges, and even thoughts on multiverses, mediums, psychics, and past lives.And somehow through all of it, one thing has remained true: we’ve never heard him raise his voice.

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