Niki Smith

Niki Smith
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Niki is an Iowa native who now lives with her husband Ryan, daughter Riley, and son Merritt in Johnston. She is passionate about paid leave for working parents, thrifting, and Beyonce. Niki is the Marketing Campaign Manager at Homesteaders Life Company in West Des Moines. She is also owner of Bee Thrifty, which consigns designer clothing for clients on Poshmark. Niki is a two-time graduate of Drake University with a bachelor’s in journalism (2008) and a Master’s in Communication Leadership (2015).
girl wearing glasses sitting on desk reading book

Books About Women For All ages

I am envious of my 8-year-old daughter for many reasons, but the main one being the long list of empowering books available to her. I remember seeking out books about amazing women when I...
hands with gloves holding honey bee hive. do hard things with kids

Learn to do Hard Things with Your Kids

I have a core memory from our time working from home with two kids during the pandemic in 2020. Each morning after my own morning work huddle my first-grader would have her own morning...
voting

Voting with Your Kids

Have you ever taken your children voting with you? If not, what was holding you back? Election Day is almost here and I’m here to help you prepare you to vote – and to...
woman's hands in heart shape. being grateful

Do you know what’s awesome? Being grateful.

This November, I invite you to reflect each day on what you are grateful for. According to a Harvard Health Study, being grateful is strongly associated with greater happiness. From the study: “Gratitude helps people...
black and white tulip. death. Des Moines Mom

What I Wish I Had Known and Done Before My Mom Died

If you have lost a loved one, you may remember the moment you found out about their death. In that moment, your life changed in some way.  Now, imagine finding out this devastating news at...
breast reduction

Considering a breast reduction? Tips and considerations

Two Des Moines Mom contributors recently had breast reduction surgeries. Stacie Leinen and Niki Smith both contribute their personal experiences below. Remember to consult with your doctors regarding any health decisions. Benefits of a...
chicago night skyline. Des Moines Mom

Weekend Destination: Chicago

I have started a summer tradition of doing a “yes day” or a mini trip for my school-aged child. It’s her reward for working hard at home over the summer while her parents both ...
Couple toasting with wine glasses. date night restaurants in Des Moines. Des Moines Mom

Favorite Des Moines Metro Restaurants for Date Night

My husband and I make sure to sneak away for at least one date night a month. We are foodies so we rarely add a movie or show to our dates. Instead, we take...
woman sitting at table working on laptop with kids. Des Moines Mom

How to Work From Home (or Hybrid) with Kids in Summer

Last year I gave my 7-year-old a summer job. She earned a “salary” of a Yes Day at the end of the summer. This year, we are pursuing another adventure of juggling camps, two parents...
mom and daughter laughing together. being a mom. Des Moines Mom

How I Became a Mom: An ode to all parents

This is a story of how I became a Mom. Well, when two people love each other... Haha, just kidding. I hope you didn’t come here for that story. But, I hope you will stay...