Mommywood

Audrey's Acting Career and Business InsightsAudrey discusses her journey in the acting industry, emphasizing that she's always learning and that the business is constantly changing. Audrey shares that while she's had many challenges, she's never considered quitting acting. Supporting Actor Parents and Child ChoicesAudrey discusses her passion for supporting actor parents, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives in storytelling. She shares her personal decision not to have children, explaining that she always knew motherhood wasn't for her. Audrey describes her supportive role as a friend to parents, making herself available to help and be part of their chosen family in Los Angeles.Actors' Parenthood Challenges and Media RepresentationAudrey discusses the challenges actors face when considering parenthood, highlighting the lack of transparency about time, energy, and financial commitments. She emphasizes the fear and uncertainty actors experience, especially in the first decade of their careers, as they balance their acting pursuits with the desire to start a family. She expresses frustration with the lack of detailed discussions about the logistics of balancing parenthood and an acting career, particularly in media interviews and podcasts.Parenting and Friendship DynamicsEmily discusses her experiences with friendships after becoming a parent. Emily emphasizes the importance of putting oneself out there to form new connections, particularly with other parents. Supporting New Mothers and CaregiversEmily and Audrey discuss ways to support new mothers and caregivers. They emphasize the importance of taking initiative rather than asking open-ended questions about needs. Suggestions include bringing food, doing household chores, and offering specific help like grocery shopping or hiring a cleaner. They also stress the importance of setting boundaries and communicating them clearly. Balancing Acting Careers With ParenthoodEmily and Audrey discuss the challenges of balancing acting careers with parenthood, particularly regarding self-tape auditions. They highlight the difficulties of finding time and space to record auditions while caring for children, as well as the financial burden of childcare or schooling. Emily shares her experience of having an actor husband as a reader and paying for her daughter's schooling to create time for auditions. They also touch on the isolation some parent actors face when unable to reciprocate as readers for their non-parent actor friends.Parenting Challenges and Socioeconomic DisparitiesAudrey and Emily discuss the challenges of parenting as children grow older. Audrey shares that her friends with older children find themselves busier with activities and social commitments, contrary to expectations of having more free time. Emily expresses concern about managing multiple children's schedules and the financial burden of extracurricular activities, especially in Los Angeles. They also touch on the socioeconomic disparities in LA and the difficulties of maintaining a middle-class lifestyle, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in these situations.Audrey's Selftape May InitiativeAudrey discusses her self-tape practice initiative called "Selftape May," which she started to help actors improve their audition skills without spending money. She encourages actors to practice self-tapes regularly, aiming for about four per week, to build capacity and solve logistical issues. Audrey and Emily also discuss the challenges of balancing acting careers with parenting responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of finding ways to practice and improve despite time constraints. Audrey mentions therapy and her supportive husband as her current lifesavers.

Contact Emily Feldt Shabel Exploring Career Transitions and GrowthEmily Bolt and Emily Feldt discussed their career transitions. Emily Feldt shared her journey from acting to therapy, highlighting how it helped her untangle thoughts and feelings. Balancing Acting and Family LifeEmily and Emily discussed the challenges of balancing acting and other careers, particularly as people start families. Emily shared her plans to start a family, noting that her work as a therapist has provided her with tools to navigate this process. Therapy's Impact on Parenting SkillsEmily and Emily discussed the benefits of therapy and its impact on their personal lives. Emily shared that therapy has provided her with valuable communication skills, which she believes will be beneficial in her future as a parent. Navigating Fears of Starting a FamilyIn the meeting, Emily Bolt and Emily Feldt discussed the challenges and fears associated with starting a family, particularly for women in the workforce. Emily Feldt emphasized the importance of staying present and communicating with partners, friends, and therapists. Balancing Creativity and Family LifeEmily and Emily discussed the challenges creatives face when considering starting a family. They emphasized the importance of open communication with partners about finances, parenting styles, and maintaining creativity. Emily suggested that creatives should not feel pressured to have everything figured out from the start and should prioritize flexibility and self-care. Setting Boundaries for CreativesEmily and Emily discussed the challenges of setting boundaries between work and personal life, particularly for creatives. They agreed that it's difficult to establish specific boundaries that work for everyone, but suggested being more intentional about where to put energy and getting in tune with one's needs. Art, Storytelling, and Mental HealthEmily and Emily discussed the importance of art and storytelling in people's lives. They talked about how the perception of art as a valid career can be challenged, and how mental health plays a significant role in sustaining careers and relationships. Emily emphasized that healing doesn't erase life experiences, but rather allows for better functioning. Balancing Family and Career FlexibilityEmily Feldt discusses her plans for balancing family and career, emphasizing the importance of flexibility. She intends to take a short maternity leave and return to therapy, appreciating the ability to set her own schedule as a therapist. Artists' Paradox: Control and ConfidenceEmily Bolt and Emily Feldt discuss the paradox of control-seeking individuals choosing careers in the arts, where control is limited. They explore the idea that uncertainty and the potential for unexpected success can be enticing. The conversation touches on the need for artists to believe in themselves, with Feldt reassuring that this self-belief is not delusional but a necessary skill. They conclude by drawing parallels between the confidence needed in acting and parenting, emphasizing the importance of believing in one's ability to learn and adapt.

Today, I'm so excited to welcome the incredibly talented Lauren Marcus to the show! Lauren is a powerhouse in the theater world, currently performing in The Jonathan Larson Project at the Orpheum Theater, celebrating the lesser-known works of the legendary Rent composer. You might also recognize her from the film adaptation of Tick, Tick… Boom!, which she filmed during the early days of the pandemic. But beyond her impressive resume, Lauren is also a mom—navigating the ups and downs of parenting while balancing a busy career in entertainment.In this episode, we get real about what it means to be both an artist and a mother—the joys, the struggles, and those moments when you're just trying to survive on broken sleep and sheer determination. Lauren opens up about her journey through pregnancy, her challenging birth experience, and how she's adjusting as her daughter approaches her first birthday. We talk about everything from the pressure to “bounce back” after having a baby to the constant juggle of work, childcare, and personal identity. And, of course, we share some laughs (and maybe a few rants) about things like baby sleep schedules, toddler tantrums, and the challenge of keeping our language in check around little ears!Lauren also shares what it's like to take her daughter on the road while performing, the realities of finding childcare when you work unpredictable hours, and the emotional weight of being away from home for long stretches. It's a conversation full of honesty, humor, and that deep understandingthat only comes from talking to another mom who gets it.We also dive into the emotional tug-of-war so many of us feel—missing the freedom of our pre-motherhood selves while absolutely loving this new, all-consuming role as parents. Lauren and I talk about how our careers have shifted since having kids, the guilt that creeps in whether we're working or at home, and the constant challenge of making it all work. Spoiler alert: no one has it figured out, and that's okay!Whether you're a working mom trying to balance it all, a fellow theater parent navigating unpredictable schedules, or just someone who loves a good, honest conversation about the beautiful mess of motherhood, this episode is for you. So grab a cup of coffee (or reheat the one you forgot about three hours ago), get comfy, and join us for a heart-to-heart with the amazing Lauren Marcus.Let's get into it!

In this episode of Mommywood, I get personal about a big milestone—my daughter just started full-time preschool! I dive into what this transition has been like for both of us, the mix of emotions that come with it, and how it's already changing our daily routines. From the search for the right school in LA (spoiler: it's a lot) to the financial realities of preschool and the impact on my work-life balance, I'm sharing it all.I also talk about the unexpected challenges—like mom guilt, the weird quiet at home, and figuring out what to do with this newfound time. Plus, I touch on the bigger questions many parents face: Is preschool really worth the cost? How do you navigate LA's competitive school scene? And what happens when your identity has been so wrapped up in full-time parenting, and suddenly, you have a little more space to breathe?Whether you're a fellow parent in the thick of preschool decisions or just curious about how this shift affects life as a working mom in the entertainment industry, this episode is an honest, raw, and (hopefully) relatable look at this next chapter. So grab your coffee, and let's talk about this big transition together!

Cherie Jimenez - born and raised in NYC. Mother, wife, actor. Gabi on Days of Our LivesIn this engaging conversation, Cherie Jimenez shares her unique experiences, from her unconventional wedding at Burning Man to her journey in the entertainment industry. She discusses the importance of family celebrations, her early life in New York, and the challenges she faced while pursuing her acting career in LA. Cherie's story is one of resilience, love, and personal growth, highlighting the beauty of embracing life's unexpected moments. In this conversation, Cherie Jimenez shares her journey in the acting industry, detailing her struggles and triumphs, particularly as a mother. She discusses the importance of relationships in the industry, her experiences with auditions, and how motherhood has reshaped her priorities and career. Cherie also reflects on her home birth experience and the support she received, emphasizing the balance between her roles as an actress and a mother. In this conversation, Cherie Jimenez shares her journey back to acting after a hiatus for motherhood, detailing her experiences with auditions, the challenges of balancing her career with being a mother, and her role as Gabby Hernandez on 'Days of Our Lives.' She reflects on personal growth, the importance of self-care, and the support she receives from her family and colleagues in the industry.TakeawaysCherie had her son the day before her husband's 40th birthday.She never believed in marriage until she met her husband.Their wedding at Burning Man was a unique experience.Cherie found a spiritual awakening at Burning Man.She grew up in a tough environment in New York City.Cherie's journey into acting began at a young age.She faced challenges in her acting career in LA.Cherie was the youngest participant at the Sundance Filmmakers Lab.She left everything behind to pursue her dreams in LA.Cherie believes in the importance of staying true to oneself. Cherie's journey in acting began with supportive agents.She learned to appreciate small wins in her career.Motherhood changed her perspective on competition in acting.Cherie believes in the importance of relationships in the industry.She experienced a significant shift in her career after becoming a mother.Cherie's home birth was a transformative experience for her.She found support from other mothers in the industry.Cherie realized that being a mother is her greatest role.She learned to prioritize her child over auditions.Cherie's experiences highlight the balance between career and motherhood. Cherie moved off the grid to focus on motherhood and acting.She received an unexpected audition for 'Days of Our Lives.'Cherie was initially unsure about returning to acting after a long break.She emphasized the importance of being proud of her efforts, regardless of the outcome.Cherie experienced postpartum challenges but sought to regain her confidence.Her role as Gabby Hernandez has been a dream come true for her.Cherie appreciates the consistent schedule that comes with working on a soap opera.She has learned to balance her career and motherhood effectively.Cherie has focused on self-care and personal growth during her journey.She feels grateful for the support from her family and colleagues.00:00 Introduction and Family Celebrations05:38 The Unique Wedding Experience10:46 Burning Man: A Spiritual Awakening18:51 Cherie's Journey in Music and Acting21:09 Cherie's Early Life and Acting Career30:19 Challenges in LA and Breakthrough Role31:18 Cherie's Journey in Acting39:34 The Impact of Motherhood on Career50:51 Home Birth Experience and Its Significance01:01:43 Balancing Motherhood and Acting01:04:55 Cherie's Journey Back to Acting01:11:16 Balancing Motherhood and Career01:18:01 Embracing the Role of Gabby Hernandez01:25:21 Reflections on Growth and Gratitude

SUSIE MENDOZASusie is a screenwriter, producer, founder, and mom with a puppet brain. She is a graduate of The Second City and was a finalist for the CBS Writing Fellowship in 2020. Her digital series, DICK BUNNY, produced alongside EP/director Katie Locke O' Brienn and EP/Star Kim Griffin, premiered at The Austin Film Festival, going on to win at SeriesFest and HollyShorts in 2024. (Best Digital Series)Susie's essays are published on McSweeneys, Scary Mommy, Mom.com, and The Pregnant Chicken. An adaptation of her McSweeney's essay, "The Biggest Challenge of Parenting is becoming a Human Meat Suit", is being developed for adult animation. Her recent article, "Simple, Not Contradictory Rules to Motherhood," echoes the impossible societal expectations seen in DICK BUNNY. Susie's picture book NATTY AND MO, an odd-couple tale with a mental health twist, marks her debut as a children's book author/illustrator. She also created all of the illustrations seen in the series, DICK BUNNY.Susie is the founder of PRETTY PINK PICTURES is a female-focused independent film/tv production company. The company intends to take female writers and produce their work from script-to-screen. In today's uncertain landscape, they intend to cultivate hope, community, and opportunity by producing an entire season of indie TV. The indie film model, but for television.For more info about PRETTY PINK PICTURES: www.prettypinkpictures.com, @susiermendozaTo watch DICK BUNNY: www.dickbunny.comTo see a read-aloud video of "Natty and Mo", voiced by actress Rachel Bloom where she gets pee'd on by a live hedgehog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZpqN-8ZDM3U&t=16s

Aimee is an actress/writer living in Los Angeles. As a kid, she would tell stories to anyone that would listen- most of them not true. Instead of accepting that she was a pesky, lying little child, she did some soul searching at the ripe age of 10 and realized it was her future to be a storyteller!Fast forwarding to today, she has momentum with her acting career, and has developed her voice as a writer. She's ready to tell her tall tales to executives who pay her for them! Aimee writes features that are led by interesting, dynamic and funny female characters, and loves to find levity even in dark moments of life… like cancer! Her current WIP, Breasties, is about her personal experience making friends while undergoing treatment for breast cancer.Favorite things: breakfast burritos, dogs, Taylor Swift, low maintenance plants, and therapy.You can catch Aimee as an actress in the upcoming A24 film, Opus (in theaters March 14th), and in Season 3 (Episode 4) of AMC's Dark Winds. ..........Interview with actress Aimee McGuire about her cancer journey, surrogacy experience, and return to acting.Key Takeaways- Aimee was diagnosed with breast cancer at 33 in 2022, underwent treatment, and is now cancer-free- She and her husband are pursuing surrogacy to have children, facing both emotional and financial challenges- Aimee's experience has given her a renewed appreciation for acting and a fresh perspective on her career- She emphasizes the importance of community support and maintaining hope throughout difficult journeysTopicsCancer Diagnosis and Treatment- Diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2022 at age 33- No family history or genetic markers for breast cancer- Treatment included chemotherapy, double mastectomy, lymph node removal, and radiation- Underwent fertility preservation before treatment, resulting in two viable embryos- Currently cancer-free but in medically-induced menopause to prevent hormone-related recurrenceSurrogacy Journey- Pursuing surrogacy due to inability to carry children post-cancer treatment- Working with a family member as surrogate to reduce costs and maintain a personal connection- Facing financial challenges, redirecting funds from other areas of life to support the process- Managing the surrogacy process independently without an agency, which is time-consuming but cost-effective- Experienced one unsuccessful embryo transfer, preparing for the next attemptReturn to Acting- Excited to return to auditioning after cancer treatment- Faced challenges with changing appearance due to hair regrowth, requiring multiple headshot sessions- Found a renewed appreciation for acting and the audition process- Believes life experiences, including cancer, have informed and deepened her acting abilities- More organized in managing the business side of actingEmotional and Mental Impact- Uses humor as a coping mechanism throughout her journey- Emphasizes the importance of community support, both in-person and online- Struggles with unsolicited opinions and judgments about surrogacy and fertility choices- Maintains hope as a primary source of strength during difficult timesFinancial Considerations- Cancer treatment was expensive even with good insurance- Some necessary treatments and therapies not covered by insurance- Surrogacy process is costly, requiring careful financial planning and sacrifices- Pursuing independent surrogacy journey to reduce agency fees and overall costs

Hull was born and raised in Ohio just outside of Cincinnati. When he was younger he was interested in politics and was a member of the Junior Statesmen of America. At the age of sixteen, he discovered his love of music when he performed pop and country revues at local theme park Kings Island. He later attended the University of Michigan.Hull had a number of Broadway credits before being cast in recurring role as White Josh on Crazy Ex-Girlfriend in 2015. In April 2017, it was announced that Hull had been promoted to series regular. He also had a recurring role as Travis Moore in the HBO comedy series Insecure. He played Logan on The Middle.Hull appeared in the 2017 film The Dark Tapes.[4] He also appeared in the 2018 film Benjamin directed by Bob Saget.In 2022, Hull was announced as part of the cast of a film adaptation of several Chekhov plays to be directed by Martin McDonagh. The film will take elements of several of Chekhov's famous works, including The Cherry Orchard.Discussing the wildfires and air quality @ 0:02Emily and David discuss the wildfires in their area and the poor air quality, with Emily noting that her young daughter has never had to wear a mask before. They commiserate about the challenges of parenting during difficult environmental conditions.Sharing personal backgrounds @ 8:19dh shares details about his background, including being a political science major in college who became disillusioned with politics, his experience taking the LSAT, and his shift in political views over time from being a staunch Republican to supporting Obama.Challenges of parenthood and work-life balance @ 40:30dh discusses the significant challenges of balancing his acting career with being a parent, including the high costs of childcare, the difficulty of taking on projects that require travel or long hours, and the need to constantly make sacrifices. He expresses frustration with the lack of support and understanding for working parents, especially fathers.Coping mechanisms and self-care @ 1:11:42dh shares that his main coping mechanism is "turning his brain off" and avoiding social media and news, as he finds it helps him manage his anxiety and vertigo issues. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing his own mental health and being present for his children.Recap and farewell @ 1:19:30Emily and dh wrap up the conversation, expressing gratitude for the discussion and exchanging well-wishes.

From a young age, Courtney Claghorn always felt her best with a tan. Ironically, she was the only Italian family member who didn't tan easily! While she used to find this frustrating, she later realized it was a blessing not to have spent her younger years baking in the sun. For her, a faux glow was the way to go.Before opening the OG Santa Monica salon, Courtney attended the University of Colorado at Boulder, where she met now husband and Co-Founder, Sam Offit. Shortly after graduation, they landed in Santa Monica. When Courtney found herself overpaying for spray tans at underwhelming locations, Sam encouraged her to find a better solution — and S+B was born! Word spread quickly. The growing client base encouraged Courtney to spread her wings from her short-lived corporate life and refocus her energy toward growing her business full-time. She soon became a 4th generation female entrepreneur, so perhaps her Italian half gave her good genes after all!So why sugaring and bronzing? Concocting the perfect recipe for her business, Courtney, a longtime skincare fanatic, decided to add a little sugar to her sunless tanning idea. While sugaring has ancient Egyptian roots, it felt relevant to the modern world as a natural, eco-friendly way to remove hair. While developing her business, Courtney quickly realized that sugaring was not only the new waxing but also the perfect complement to a spray tan. Both services were often relegated to the bottom of long spa menus when in actuality, both techniques deserved finesse and attention for clients to receive consistent and optimal results.Courtney's vision brought the two popular services side by side. SUGARED + BRONZED quickly became a uniquely synergetic space for those seeking a little extra pep in their step. No matter the occasion, S+B promises that you'll leave with immaculately smooth skin and a natural faux glow.Courtney's entrepreneurial journey @ 0:00Courtney discusses her early days starting the Sugared + Bronzed business with her now-husband. She describes the pivotal moments when it started to feel like a "real" business, such as taking on investors and buying their first house. Courtney shares that the business grew rapidly, with 34 locations now across multiple states.Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship @ 7:12Courtney reflects on the challenges of starting a family while running a growing business. She shares that she struggled with the physical and emotional aspects of pregnancy, and found it difficult to take time off work. Courtney discusses how she and her husband divided responsibilities to make it work, including hiring a night nurse and au pair.Courtney's creative writing project @ 46:30Courtney reveals that she has written a pilot script for a single-camera comedy inspired by her "mommy and me" class experiences. She shares that the writing process was surprisingly enjoyable for her, and that the script features characters based on people in her life. Courtney is hesitant to share the script widely, but is open to getting feedback from trusted sources.Recap and well-wishes @ 1:00:46Emily congratulates Courtney on the success of Sugared + Bronzed and her entrepreneurial journey. Courtney expresses gratitude for the team that has helped grow the business. Emily offers to read Courtney's pilot script and they discuss plans to stay in touch.

Key Takeaways - Vanessa recently returned to acting after a 2-3 year break to focus on motherhood - Both emphasize the importance of intentional parenting and maintaining a sense of self - Vanessa finds strength and identity in motherhood, contrary to the common narrative of "losing oneself" - Both are balancing motherhood with pursuing acting careers, facing industry challengesTopicsCurrent Events and Personal Reflections - Discussed emotional impacts of recent world events - Vanessa shared her family's immigrant background and current societal parallels - Both expressed gratitude for their families' well-being amid global challengesParenting Philosophies and Experiences - Emphasized importance of play and reading in child development - Vanessa's approach: intentional parenting, fostering grit and strong sense of self in daughter - Discussed challenges of balancing personal identity with motherhood - Shared experiences of children's growth and milestones (e.g., Scarlett turning 3 soon)Acting Careers and Motherhood - Vanessa's return to acting: signed with new agency (ARPA) 2 months ago - Current opportunities: on avail for ABC's "Dr." show and two national commercials (Lowe's and Home Depot) - Discussed challenges of re-entering industry as a mother - Both aim for roles in "horrible" but popular TV shows for stabilityPersonal Care and Coping Strategies - Vanessa's lifesaver: Epsom salt baths (eucalyptus and lavender scent) - Other strategies: heating pads, good sleep, alkaline water

Podcast interview with dancer/actress Tyne Stecklein about balancing motherhood and career in the entertainment industry.Tyne's ArtKey Takeaways - Tyne recently had her third child (first daughter) and is balancing life with 3 kids under 6 - She has continued working in dance/acting throughout pregnancies and postpartum periods - Creativity and artistic outlets are crucial for her mental health and sense of self as a mom - Flexibility and adaptability are key for managing an entertainment career with young kidsRecent Birth and Family Update - Had daughter Essence on December 13th, joining sons Brecken (6) and Ocean (3.5) - Was surprised to have a girl after assuming it would be another boy - Found not knowing the gender added an exciting element of surprise - Named baby about an hour before leaving hospital after getting to know herBalancing Career and Motherhood - Continued working on dance/acting jobs during pregnancies, sometimes not disclosing pregnancy - Grateful for understanding from female choreographers who are also moms - Teaches dance conventions as steady work between acting/dancing gigs - Husband also works in entertainment (dance, music, home remodeling) - Challenging to have two self-employed parents, but allows flexibilityPostpartum Experience and Self-Care - Third pregnancy/delivery was physically easiest but early weeks were chaotic due to wildfires - Evacuated with newborn and family, stayed in 8 different places over 2.5 weeks - Trying to incorporate older kids with baby, realizing importance of one-on-one time - Meditation and creative outlets like painting help with mental health - Savoring newborn snuggles as form of self-care currentlyCareer Impact of Motherhood - Initially wanted to reach certain acting milestones before starting family - Chose starting family over Broadway opportunity, felt it was right timing - Kids have expanded emotional range/life experience to draw from as performer - Auditioning for family commercials together during pandemic - Exposing kids to parents' work, but not pushing them into entertainmentAdvice for Artist Parents - Make time for creative pursuits to stay connected to self - Having kids adds depth to art rather than limiting it - Be adaptable with schedules/routines, especially with multiple kids - Zip-up swaddles and two-way zip onesies are lifesavers for baby care

DaJuan Johnson Introductions and casual conversation @ 0:00DaJuan and Emily introduce themselves and engage in friendly small talk, discussing their children's ages and the challenges of parenting teenagers. They acknowledge the difficulties of the teenage years and the need for patience and understanding.DaJuan's journey to parenthood @ 8:00DaJuan shares how he and his husband decided to foster-to-adopt their two sons, Mark and Duke, rather than waiting to have children until his acting career was more established. He describes the whirlwind experience of getting the call about the boys and having them move in with them just a few days later, without the typical 9-month preparation period.Navigating the financial and practical aspects of parenthood @ 9:00DaJuan discusses the financial considerations of becoming a parent, including the challenges of buying a home and the shift in his career priorities. He explains how he and his husband were able to purchase their first home by getting a loan with a lower down payment, and how his acting income and coaching business helped provide financial stability.Overcoming "imposter syndrome" and building a coaching business @ 19:33DaJuan shares how he started his coaching business, Think Bigger Coaching, by drawing on his own experiences and the requests from fellow actors for advice. He discusses overcoming "imposter syndrome" and the importance of shifting one's mindset to embrace new opportunities, rather than doubting one's abilities.The benefits and challenges of self-tapes @ 24:54DaJuan reflects on the shift to self-tapes in the industry, acknowledging the pros and cons. He emphasizes the need for actors to adapt and embrace this new medium, while also advocating for maintaining a positive mindset and not succumbing to the "cult of average" that often complains about the changes.Navigating social media and technology with teenage children @ 56:34DaJuan discusses his approach to managing his children's use of social media and technology, including his decision to not share their images publicly and to limit their access to certain platforms. He shares the challenges of setting boundaries and the importance of having open conversations with his sons about the risks and benefits.Self-care and maintaining balance as a parent @ 1:02:00DaJuan emphasizes the importance of prioritizing self-care, including getting enough sleep and making time for activities like yoga, as a way to maintain balance and be the best parent he can be. He acknowledges that putting oneself first is often taboo in parenting, but argues that it is necessary to avoid burnout and be present for his children.

Farah Merani Actress known for See, Quantum Leap, Station 19Farah's background and journey to LA @ 0:00Farah shares her background - she is Canadian of East African and Indian origin, grew up in a small town in Northern Ontario, went to university in Toronto, and then moved to London, England for drama school. After being "booted" from the UK, she decided to move to the US, specifically LA, and got a green card just before Trump was elected. Farah discusses the challenges and uncertainties of that decision, but a conversation with a friend encouraged her to stay and invest in her career in the US.Navigating healthcare and social services in the US @ 11:19Farah discusses the significant differences between the healthcare systems in Canada and the US, and how she navigated getting coverage during her pregnancy. She qualified for Medi-Cal, California's Medicaid program, which covered her prenatal care and delivery. Farah emphasizes the importance of being aware of and utilizing available social services and resources, rather than feeling ashamed about needing support.Balancing career, motherhood, and self-care @ 24:47Farah talks about the challenges of balancing her acting career, writing, and other professional pursuits with being a new mom. She emphasizes the importance of carving out time for herself, having a supportive partner, and utilizing childcare help when needed in order to maintain her own well-being and continue developing her career. Farah also discusses the value of not feeling guilty about asking for and accepting help.Parenting philosophy and approach @ 50:01Farah shares her parenting philosophy, which is grounded in curiosity, trust, and observation of her child's needs and cues. She discusses the importance of open communication with her partner, modeling affection, and creating family rituals like regular mealtimes. Farah also emphasizes the value of her child developing relationships with other caregivers and the benefits of multilingualism.Recap and next steps @ 57:04Emily and Farah wrap up the conversation, expressing gratitude for the discussion.

Listen as we chat about what we've both been up to over the break...oh boy, it's already quite a wild start to 2025. But season 5 is coming to bring you so much needed joy and community.

Tracey Wigfield Emily and Tracey catch up on their recent moves and family life. Tracey shares details about her three children - Celine (6), Beatrice (4), and William (5 months). Emily mentions having previously taught Tracey's daughters.Tracey's career journey @ 4:49Tracey discusses her path to becoming a writer, starting in New York on 30 Rock and then moving to LA to work on The Mindy Project, where she met her husband. She reflects on the rapid career progression she experienced early on.Navigating pregnancy and motherhood as a showrunner @ 7:35Tracey opens up about the anxiety and challenges she has faced telling employers about her pregnancies, even as an established showrunner. She shares insights on managing work-life balance, dealing with guilt, and the differences in her experiences with each pregnancy.Raising kids with family support @ 33:53Tracey discusses the benefits and challenges of having a multi-generational household, with her parents and other family members helping to care for the children. She reflects on how this has impacted her parenting approach and the kids' development.Maintaining self-care and hobbies @ 42:03When asked about self-care, Tracey humorously admits to hiding in the bathroom to play a mobile game, acknowledging the difficulty of finding time for personal interests as a working mom.

Alexandra's Podcast Reconnecting and Catching Up @ 0:00Emily and Alexandra reconnect, sharing how their lives have evolved since their early 20s when they knew each other through a mutual ex-boyfriend. They discuss their transitions to New York and Los Angeles, getting married, and starting families.Navigating Pregnancy and Postpartum Challenges @ 2:55Alexandra describes her difficult pregnancy with severe morning sickness, and how she and her husband navigated the uncertainty of the pandemic. Emily shares her relatively smooth pregnancy, and they discuss the challenges of postpartum recovery, body image, and balancing work and family.The Value of Doulas and Support Systems @ 19:01Alexandra explains why she chose to have a doula for her hospital birth, and the importance of having a supportive partner and community, especially when living far from family. Emily reflects on not having a doula and the benefits they can provide.Rebuilding Confidence and Creativity @ 37:50Alexandra opens up about the struggles of rebuilding her confidence and sense of self after pregnancy and childbirth, and how she is navigating the transition back to performing and creative work. Emily shares her own experiences and insights on this journey.Embracing the Joys and Quirks of Motherhood @ 53:36Alexandra and Emily discuss the delights of watching their children develop their unique personalities and interests, from a love of piano to unusual music preferences. They reflect on the rapid changes and milestones at this stage.Balancing Life in Big Cities @ 58:36The conversation turns to the challenges and benefits of raising children in major cities like Los Angeles and New York, from navigating transportation to building community without family nearby. They share their perspectives on making it work.Recap and Closing @ 1:03:58Emily and Alexandra express their appreciation for reconnecting and the insights they've gained from their discussion. They agree to stay in touch and Emily promises to provide updates on the podcast episode.

Maria's background and move to LA @ 1:42Maria shares that she has a 5-year-old son named Declan and a 2-year-old daughter named Lennox. She discusses her background growing up on the East Coast as a dancer and musical theater performer, and her decision to move to LA after college internships there.Maria's husband's career transition @ 5:47Maria's husband Patrick was a professional soccer player who retired in 2020 due to injury. He then decided to pursue acting and writing, and he and Maria now co-own a production company together.Navigating career changes and the pandemic @ 8:25The couple faced significant changes and challenges during the pandemic, including Patrick's injury, career transition, and the births of their two children. Maria reflects on the positives they were able to find during that difficult time.Balancing work, family, and postpartum challenges @ 10:43Maria discusses the challenges of balancing work, including acting and producing, with raising her young children. She also opens up about her experiences with postpartum depression and the importance of support from her husband and family.Involving the kids in work and creative projects @ 13:21Maria and her husband have involved their children in some of their acting and commercial work, which has provided opportunities for the family to work together. They are thoughtful about protecting their kids' privacy and ensuring the work remains fun for the children.Reflections on body image and self-acceptance @ 27:43Maria shares her ongoing journey with body image and self-acceptance, acknowledging the societal pressures and her own internal critic, while also striving to model self-love and confidence for her children.Recap and closing @ 1:09:34The conversation concludes with Maria and Emily discussing the importance of having a supportive partner, maintaining spiritual practices, and doing the best they can as mothers, even when it's not perfect.

Caroline Helander, an actor born and raised in Texas, fell in love with performing at the age of ten and never looked back. She attended The University of Texas in Austin where she received a BA in Theatre & Dance with a focus in Acting. Caroline is a mother of three, wife, and just your everyday gal. She can be found juggling the life of a creative career and the beautiful yet messy rollercoaster of motherhood. She can be found on social media empowering other moms to follow their hearts in this crazy but incredible journey of being an actor. She resides in Houston with her husband and three kids. Caroline introduces herself as a mom of three kids - a 15-year-old daughter, a 12-year-old son, and an 8-year-old daughter. She discusses the dynamics of having a spread of ages and how it keeps things lively at home. Pursuing acting as a passion and career @ 4:00 Caroline shares how she discovered her love for acting from a young age, starting in theater and student films in college. She describes the winding path of pursuing acting, including moving to New York after college, working at the David Letterman show, and eventually returning to Texas to teach theater. She discusses the mindset shift of embracing acting as a lifelong journey rather than a linear path. Balancing motherhood and acting @ 7:57 Caroline talks about the decision to step back from teaching and focus more on acting after having her third child. She describes the challenges of juggling auditions, self-tapes, and childcare, as well as the support of her husband. She emphasizes the importance of being upfront with agents about her responsibilities as a mom. Maintaining creativity and self-care @ 18:58 Caroline discusses strategies for staying creatively motivated as a mom, including taking breaks from social media and acting work, and making time for self-care activities like exercise. She shares how she has learned to be more present with her kids rather than constantly worrying about her career. The role of family and community @ 1:03:26 Caroline cites having her parents and sister nearby as a key lifesaver, providing support with childcare and allowing her to pursue her acting goals. She emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community, both within the acting world and with fellow moms.

Emily Barth Isler Introductions and background @ 0:00 Emily Bolt and Emily Barth Isler introduce themselves and discuss their backgrounds. Emily Barth Isler shares that she grew up in Maryland, went to college in Connecticut, and then moved to New York City with her husband before having two children. They later decided to move the family to Los Angeles about 5 years ago. Reflections on parenting and childhood @ 3:48 The two Emilys discuss the challenges of parenting and how perspectives on their children's ages and stages of life have shifted over time. They reflect on the impact of the pandemic on their kids' development and the difficulty of untangling that from other factors. Emily Barth Isler's career transition @ 8:08 Emily Barth Isler shares her journey from pursuing acting early in her career to eventually transitioning to becoming a writer. She discusses the fear and hesitation she felt about making that change, as well as the privilege and support that enabled her to take that leap. The realities of being a writer @ 17:01 Emily Barth Isler provides an in-depth look at the publishing industry, including the long timelines involved in getting a book from concept to publication, the need to constantly be writing new material, and the challenges of balancing creativity with the business side of being an author. The importance of acknowledging privilege @ 25:28 Emily Barth Isler emphasizes the significant role that privilege and access to resources play in enabling creative pursuits. She discusses the compromises and barriers faced by those without the same level of support, and her desire to help create more equitable opportunities for underrepresented voices. Finding balance and fulfillment @ 1:04:08 Emily Barth Isler shares the activities and habits that have become "life savers" for her, including the use of audiobooks and the mental benefits she derives from regular lap swimming. She reflects on how these practices have helped her find balance and fulfillment in her writing career and personal life.

Liz's An Unorthodox Pregnancy Announcement article Best Friend's Forever: A Horror Comedy by Liz Kickstarter Liz Manashil and Emily Bolt introduce themselves and discuss Liz's background, including growing up in the Bay Area, attending Washington University in St. Louis, and then going to USC for film school. Liz shares that she knew she wanted to be a director from a young age, preferring the control and creative freedom of directing over acting. Balancing motherhood and filmmaking @ 5:06 Liz discusses the challenges of being a mother in the male-dominated film industry, including feeling like she needs a "wife" to help support her creative pursuits. She shares how becoming a parent has impacted her work, including having to take time off for pregnancy and childcare. Liz and Emily also discuss the societal expectations and stigmas around mothers in the workforce. Financing independent films as a parent @ 32:20 Liz and Emily discuss the financial challenges and fears of pursuing an independent filmmaking career while also raising a family. Liz shares how she and her husband try to be fiscally responsible, including maintaining an emergency savings fund, in order to weather the ups and downs of the industry. Involving children in the creative process @ 37:00 Liz talks about how she and her husband have involved their son in their filmmaking work, including giving him cameos in their projects. They discuss their hopes and concerns around their children potentially pursuing careers in the entertainment industry in the future. The decision to have a second child @ 41:22 Liz shares her personal journey in deciding to have a second child, including initially being adamant about only having one, and then changing her mind after feeling a strong desire for another child. She discusses the differences in her two pregnancies and births, and offers advice for others considering expanding their family. Self-care and work-life balance @ 48:18 Liz and Emily discuss the importance of making time for self-care activities, such as exercise, socializing, and hobbies, in order to maintain their well-being and creative energy as working mothers. They share their personal "lifesavers" that help them get through the daily challenges.

Practicing mindfulness and gratitude @ 0:00 Emily discusses the importance of practicing mindfulness and gratitude, such as through meditation, journaling, and taking deep breaths, as a way to start the day on a positive note, reduce stress, and build patience. Setting realistic expectations @ 2:13 Emily emphasizes the need to set realistic expectations, especially in the acting industry and parenting, to prevent frustration. She notes that having a positive but pragmatic mindset can help manage challenges and maintain patience. Prioritizing self-care @ 4:14 Emily stresses the importance of prioritizing self-care through rest, exercise, nutrition, and taking mental/physical breaks, as this can help maintain patience and resilience in both acting and parenting. Effective time management @ 4:42 Emily discusses the value of developing strong time management skills, such as planning schedules and to-do lists, to reduce stress and allow for more patience in managing the demands of acting, parenting, and life in general. Embracing flexibility and adaptability @ 7:45 Emily emphasizes the need to be flexible and adaptable, as unexpected situations and changes are inevitable in both acting and parenting. Embracing this mindset can help handle challenges with more patience. Communicating effectively @ 8:57 Emily highlights the importance of clear, open, and honest communication, especially with partners and others involved in acting and parenting, as this can prevent misunderstandings and reduce stress, ultimately supporting patience. Seeking support and reflecting on successes @ 10:23 Emily encourages seeking support from others and reflecting on positive moments and successes, as these can provide relief, perspective, and a boost to patience and resilience in both acting and parenting. Recap and final thoughts @ 15:43 Emily concludes by emphasizing the importance of giving oneself grace, as patience can be challenging to maintain in the acting and parenting realms. She encourages deep breathing, positive reflection, and a compassionate mindset towards oneself and one's children.

In this episode, I answer the questions that 25 year old Emily who just moved to LA and met a cute guy would ask 37 year old Emily who is now married, has two year old daughter, and is still acting in Los Angeles.

1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals Break your long-term career aspirations into smaller, actionable steps. This makes the process feel more manageable and gives you a sense of accomplishment along the way. 2. Create a Flexible Schedule Balancing auditions, rehearsals, and acting gigs with parenting is tough. Create a flexible routine that accommodates both, ensuring you're dedicating time to your craft without compromising family time. 3. Find a Support Network Surround yourself with other actor moms or creative parents who understand your struggles. Sharing experiences and receiving encouragement from people in similar situations can be incredibly motivating. 4. Prioritize Self-Care Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally is key to staying motivated. Whether it's exercise, meditation, or simply taking time to relax, self-care ensures you're in the right mindset to pursue your acting career. 5. Celebrate Small Wins Recognize and celebrate every achievement, no matter how small. Whether it's landing a role or simply nailing an audition, these victories can keep your passion alive. 6. Stay Connected to Your Passion Remind yourself why you started acting in the first place. Watch performances or read scripts that inspire you. Engaging with your craft for pure enjoyment can reignite your passion when things feel difficult. 7. Get Creative at Home If time away from family feels limited, bring acting into your home life. Practice monologues with your kids, turn family activities into creative projects, or rehearse lines while doing household tasks. 8. Keep Learning Take online acting classes, workshops, or join virtual theatre groups. Continual learning keeps your skills sharp and motivates you to stay connected to your craft, even if you can't attend in-person classes or auditions. 9. Embrace Your Unique Perspective Motherhood can deepen your emotional range and add complexity to your acting. Use your experiences as a mom to enhance your performances. Embracing how your journey enriches your acting can be motivating in itself. 10. Be Patient and Kind to Yourself Accept that your career path might look different now, and that's okay. It's important to allow yourself the space to grow at your own pace, knowing that balancing motherhood and acting is an achievement in itself. What aspects of these tips resonate with you most for “Mommywood”?

Meg Braxton co-owner of The Work BFF Meg's background and career journey @ 0:00 Meg grew up in a small town in Connecticut, where she was a competitive dancer as a child. She later pursued a liberal arts degree and worked in the White House during the Obama administration, which sparked her interest in recruiting and sales. In 2018, Meg made the decision to leave her corporate job and pursue acting, focusing on commercials. This was a major transition, but within four months she booked her first commercial and has been working in the entertainment industry while maintaining a flexible recruiting job. Meeting and marrying her husband @ 12:58 Meg met her husband, who is also an actor, at an acting workshop in New York City in 2019. They quickly fell in love and got engaged in 2020, though their wedding was delayed due to COVID-19. In 2020, they decided to move to Los Angeles together to pursue their acting careers. Becoming parents and navigating postpartum @ 21:03 Meg and her husband had their first child, a son named Teddy, in June 2021. Meg struggled with postpartum depression and anxiety, which was exacerbated by the sudden loss of her cousin to suicide a few months after Teddy's birth. This was a very difficult time, but Meg made the decision to prioritize her mental health, taking time off work and seeking support. She has continued to manage her mental health while balancing work, acting, and motherhood. Reflections on body image and self-acceptance @ 29:09 Meg has had a complex relationship with her body image, including past struggles with disordered eating. During her pregnancy, she embraced the changes to her body, but the postpartum period has presented new challenges. Meg has worked to be more accepting and compassionate with herself, focusing on how she feels rather than just physical appearance. Childcare and work-life balance @ 40:00 Meg and her husband initially cared for Teddy at home full-time, but recently enrolled him in part-time daycare to provide more support and flexibility. This was a challenging decision, but has allowed them both to have dedicated time for work, creative pursuits, and self-care. Meg has been very intentional about advocating for her needs and setting boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Recap and key takeaways @ 1:04:58 Meg and Emily conclude the conversation by discussing the importance of self-care, with Meg highlighting the value of daily walks as a "lifesaver" for her mental health. They reflect on the shared experiences and challenges of motherhood, and Meg expresses her appreciation for the Mommywood Podcast as a platform for open conversations. HIGHLIGHT - Meg recounts moving across the country with her husband during COVID. - WATCH (40 secs): https://fathom.video/share/wf_6QdYLGdxWBnriquoMCXx-JwdAFPaS?timestamp=878.851495 - Meg explains she was rushed and wants to part ways from collaborating. - WATCH (30 secs): https://fathom.video/share/wf_6QdYLGdxWBnriquoMCXx-JwdAFPaS?timestamp=1083.362574 - Meg discusses her excitement and struggles with body image during pregnancy. - WATCH (2 mins): https://fathom.video/share/wf_6QdYLGdxWBnriquoMCXx-JwdAFPaS?timestamp=1761.597491 - Meg explains setting boundaries at work as she's gotten older. - WATCH (1 min): https://fathom.video/share/wf_6QdYLGdxWBnriquoMCXx-JwdAFPaS?timestamp=2733.097386

Corey Clifford Writer, Director and Star of Boss Babes Her podcast - Cinema Obsessed VIEW RECORDING: https://fathom.video/share/FGn-pqpJTFrqJDptk5Q2RJPu12pWqYS4 Pregnancy journey and experiences @ 0:00 Corey discusses her pregnancy journey so far, including navigating her acting career while pregnant, dealing with morning sickness, and the excitement and nerves of becoming a first-time mom. She shares how she has been able to continue working on some projects by hiding her pregnancy early on, and the supportive reactions from her agents and the production teams when she did reveal it. Balancing acting and motherhood @ 11:45 Corey and Emily discuss the challenges and considerations of pursuing an acting career while starting a family. They touch on Corey's concerns about her child potentially entering the entertainment industry, the flexibility of their freelance/creative careers, and the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Pregnancy and body image @ 48:00 Corey shares her surprisingly positive experience with body image during pregnancy, noting that she has been more accepting of the changes. They discuss the pressures in the industry around "bouncing back" after having a baby and Corey's efforts to stay focused on feeling strong and healthy. Pregnancy hacks and support systems @ 53:10 Corey shares some of her "lifesavers" during pregnancy, including specific products, snacks, and the support of her husband, friends, and family. They also discuss the benefits of having a flexible schedule and access to resources like the AMC Stubs program. Recap and well-wishes @ 55:41 Emily expresses her excitement for Corey and wishes her an amazing birth experience as the due date approaches. Corey shares her anticipation and nerves, noting that she is likely to continue making lists to prepare. HIGHLIGHT - Corey discusses telling her agent about a scheduling conflict for a small acting role. - WATCH (1 min): https://fathom.video/share/FGn-pqpJTFrqJDptk5Q2RJPu12pWqYS4?timestamp=310.402926 - Corey discusses acting class and perspective on motherhood - WATCH (1 min): https://fathom.video/share/FGn-pqpJTFrqJDptk5Q2RJPu12pWqYS4?timestamp=2672.667436 - Corey discusses acting career concerns and body image pressures in LA. - WATCH (2 mins): https://fathom.video/share/FGn-pqpJTFrqJDptk5Q2RJPu12pWqYS4?timestamp=2860.401507

Alanna Fox VIEW RECORDING: https://fathom.video/share/JoqECGSiBUT_EXS6bsS7EL35a6BdAoi6 Pregnancy and life changes @ 0:00 Alanna discusses her pregnancy, including her due date, finding out she was pregnant unexpectedly, and the emotional and physical changes she has experienced. She shares her excitement about starting a family but also some of her concerns, especially around balancing her acting career with motherhood. Navigating the industry as a pregnant actor @ 7:52 Alanna talks about the challenges she has faced auditioning and working as a pregnant actor, including having to turn down certain roles due to safety concerns. She shares insights from conversations with other actors and casting directors about the best ways to handle being transparent about her pregnancy. Preparing for the baby's arrival @ 24:09 Alanna discusses getting the nursery ready, setting up a new home office space, and preparing for the financial and logistical changes that come with having a child. She talks about relying on her support network of family and friends, as well as utilizing resources like registries and return policies. Balancing career and motherhood @ 42:20 Alanna reflects on how her priorities and creative process have shifted during her pregnancy, and she shares her hopes and concerns about returning to acting after the baby is born. She discusses the pros and cons of potentially booking high-profile acting jobs that could take her away from the baby. Closing thoughts and reflections @ 1:05:03 Alanna expresses her excitement about starting this new chapter of her life and how becoming a mother has already impacted her emotionally and creatively. She discusses finding a balance between her career ambitions and her desire to be present for her child.

Lily Harrison VIEW RECORDING: https://fathom.video/calls/132175818 Lily's background and path to acting @ 0:00 Lily discusses growing up with actor parents who moved the family from LA to Oregon to give their children a more normal childhood. She was initially shy about pursuing acting but eventually took acting classes and moved to LA, where she found success in commercials and comedy writing. Navigating parenthood and career @ 6:03 Lily shares how becoming a mother significantly impacted her creative process and career goals. She initially struggled with the loss of creative freedom and solitude, but eventually embraced focusing on motherhood and writing her own material. Lily and her partner Peter have found flexibility in their schedules to accommodate their family needs. Deciding to have a child @ 39:44 Lily was initially unsure about having children, but after fertility concerns at age 30, she and her partner decided to try. Lily was surprised when she became pregnant quickly, and she reflects on the challenges and joys of new motherhood. Balancing self-care and family life @ 56:07 Lily shares how she carves out 30 minutes of alone time each night after her son Jack goes to sleep, which helps her recharge and be more present for her family. She emphasizes the importance of giving yourself grace as a parent. Recap and closing @ 1:00:14 Emily and Lily wrap up the conversation, expressing gratitude for the discussion and the joys and challenges of motherhood.

Katie Locke Obrien Watch "Dick Bunny" NOW VIEW RECORDING: https://fathom.video/calls/128992166 Flexible work-life balance @ 0:00 Emily and Katie discuss the challenges and benefits of having flexible schedules as creative professionals with families. They share how their husbands' careers in writing and directing have allowed for a more fluid work-life integration, though it requires constant coordination and adaptation. Maintaining creativity and focus @ 27:29 Both Emily and Katie discuss the challenges of maintaining creative focus and productivity after having a child. They share strategies like working in separate environments and setting aside dedicated writing time, while also acknowledging the persistent "mental load" of parenthood that can be difficult to fully disengage from. Transitioning to parenthood @ 32:41 Katie reflects on the decision to have a child, noting the difficulty of finding the "right" time given the unpredictability of creative careers. She shares how a conversation with a friend helped her realize there is no perfect moment, and that having a child is a deliberate choice rather than waiting for the stars to align. Navigating the entertainment industry as parents @ 32:41 Katie describes the ups and downs of trying to establish her directing career while also starting a family, including the uncertainty of project development and the need to be flexible with travel and schedules. They discuss the unique challenges faced by creative professionals in balancing their careers and family life. Recap and closing thoughts @ 38:17 The conversation concludes with Emily and Katie reflecting on the overall experience of parenthood and the importance of being adaptable and making deliberate choices, rather than waiting for the "perfect" time to have a child. katie locke obrien - August 03 VIEW RECORDING: https://fathom.video/calls/128994055 Balancing career and motherhood @ 0:00 Katie discusses the challenges of navigating her creative career as a director while also being a mother. She shares how having her son Julian has impacted her work, both positively and negatively, as she tries to find the right balance between her professional and personal life. Katie notes that being a "mom who's also creative is just a constant exercise in feeling bad about whichever thing you're not doing." Embracing flexibility and support @ 10:30 Katie explains how the increased resources and flexibility from her success have helped, but also introduced new challenges, as she and her husband David navigate decisions around travel, childcare, and family commitments. She emphasizes the importance of being open about her needs as a working parent, and how the industry is becoming more accommodating and supportive of parents, especially mothers, behind the camera. Developing the "Dick Bunny" project @ 15:15 Katie describes her passion for the magical realism comedy series "Dick Bunny", which explores postpartum anxiety and the isolation of new motherhood through a surreal, darkly humorous lens. She discusses the lengthy process of developing the project, assembling the talented cast and crew, and her desire to share this unique perspective on the motherhood experience with audiences. Lifesavers and advice @ 23:14 Katie shares her current "lifesavers" - coffee and durable clothing labels - as well as the importance of finding practical solutions to the everyday challenges of parenting. She emphasizes the value of these small but impactful tools that help make life a bit easier amidst the chaos.

Introductions and background @ 0:00 Jennifer and Emily discuss their backgrounds, how they met through a music class, and introduce their families. Jennifer shares that she has a 2.5-year-old son named Harrison, and 2.5-month-old twin girls named Rumor and Rosewood. They discuss the joys and challenges of having multiple young children. Navigating pregnancy and birth @ 5:34 Jennifer shares the story of her twins' unconventional breech birth, where she advocated for a vaginal delivery against the initial recommendation for a C-section. She describes the powerful experience of delivering the twins and the importance of having a supportive doula. They also discuss the practice of placenta reading and honoring the placenta. Balancing careers and family life @ 30:19 Jennifer and Emily discuss the unique challenges of maintaining their creative careers while raising young children. They share strategies like using a shared calendar, communicating openly about schedules, and finding ways to spend quality time together as a couple. They also touch on the benefits of having flexible, non-traditional work arrangements. Preparing for an international trip @ 43:45 The conversation turns to Jennifer and her family's upcoming trip to Europe, where her husband Tom will be filming a movie. They discuss plans to split time between Tom's work in Budapest and staying with Jennifer's family in Sweden to provide a better environment for the kids. Travel tips with young kids @ 45:07 As the meeting wraps up, Jennifer and Emily share some tips and tricks they've learned for traveling with young children, including the usefulness of baby carriers, bringing new toys to keep them entertained, and using wrist-to-wrist leashes for safety. Action Items * Look into getting a double carrier for future travel with three kids - WATCH (30 secs) * Buy new toys, snacks and other entertainment for Harrison for upcoming international travel - WATCH (30 secs) * Get a wrist leash for the kids for upcoming international travel - WATCH (30 secs)

Emily chats with her husband, Preston, about how things have been going in his life as an actor and father. Enjoy this Mom and Dad catch up! Acting career updates @ 0:00 Preston discusses his recent acting work, including booking a lead role in a feature film before joining SAG, as well as recurring roles on Young Sheldon and the upcoming show Bookie. He reflects on the pros and cons of joining the union, noting the increased opportunities but also the loss of some non-union work. Parenting challenges and joys @ 7:00 The conversation shifts to parenting, with Preston and Emily discussing their daughter May breaking her arm and the emotional and practical challenges they faced. They emphasize the importance of being present as parents and the flexibility their careers allow. They also explore the evolving relationship between parents and their children as the kids get older. Coping mechanisms and self-care @ 39:32 Preston and Emily share the things that have been helping them cope during this time, including the Moana soundtrack, binge-watching certain TV shows, and a homemade tea concoction for vocal health and stress relief. They acknowledge the difficulties of parenting but encourage other entertainment industry parents that they are not alone. Recap and well-wishes @ 44:00 The meeting concludes with a recap of May's recovery progress and well-wishes for other parents in the entertainment industry who are navigating the challenges of their careers and family life.

Emily grapples with the fear of being a 'loser' as a parent and actor, balancing their career with raising a child. She emphasize resilience, passion, and dedication, while sharing insights on showcasing small wins and involving their child in the process. She also discusses her concerns about her child's perception of her financial success or lack thereof, and the potential impact on their own self-worth. She stresses the importance of instilling self-worth in children and leading by example, while acknowledging the potential negative impact of constantly talking about failure and professional setbacks. Action Items Share past acting achievements and successes with children. Involve children in the acting process once old enough, such as attending rehearsals or being on set. Celebrate small wins and positive feedback with children. Continue learning about the acting craft through classes and workshops. Explain the competitive nature and ups and downs of the acting industry to children if interested. Outline Parental insecurities in the entertainment industry. Worries about appearing unreliable or unsuccessful to their kids due to acting career. Wanting to wait until successful in their career before having kids. Emphasizes financial security as key to having children. Parental anxiety about financial success and how it affects children's perception of their parents. Reflects on how they didn't think about money growing up, despite their parents' wealth. Worries about daughter's perception of failed auditions and perceived loser status. Hopes daughter won't be like "wretched bitch" who constantly compares parents. How to support children in acting career, sharing achievements and overcoming challenges. Discusses the importance of resilience and hard work in acting career, emphasizing the need to show daughter the value of persistence and preparation. Plans to talk to daughter about the process of acting, including the importance of showing work beyond self-tape auditions and demonstrating dedication to craft. Share achievements and small wins with kids to show pride in work. Discuss challenges and how they've been overcome to be honest with kids. How parents can support their children's acting careers while maintaining a positive self-image. Suggests sharing positive feedback and mentoring others to show dedication and passion for acting. Emphasizes the importance of continuing to learn and grow as an actor through classes and workshops. Emphasizes the importance of being present for children, not just in terms of career success. Encourages parents to explain the ups and downs of their acting career to their children. Emphasizes the importance of self-worth and self-talk, encouraging parents to speak positively about themselves and their children. Discuss the impact of parental self-talk on children's self-esteem and future success.

Key Takeaways Communicate openly with reps and casting about pregnancy, especially once showing No need to disclose pregnancy to everyone on set, but inform costuming if accommodations needed Auditioning and working on set while pregnant is possible with some adjustments Be honest about comfort needs, take precautions for safety, and go easy on yourself Topics Telling Reps About Pregnancy Emily told reps early on, around 6 weeks Most tell reps once showing, which is acceptable Reps are usually supportive as they can't discriminate and can submit for pregnant roles Telling Casting About Pregnancy Not necessary to disclose early if not showing and role is safe Once showing, disclose to avoid declining audition without explanation Doesn't necessarily need to be disclosed to full production team Auditioning While Pregnant Have 3 comfortable outfit options that work for typical roles Pant expanders helpful for fitting regular jeans Being visibly pregnant may affect chances for some roles, but not necessarily Don't modify audition material just for being pregnant Working On Set While Pregnant Had positive experience booking Young Sheldon role meant for pregnant woman Costuming unaware she was actually pregnant until fitting Communicate openly with costuming about comfort needs SAG has safety protocols, may need doctor's clearance Can request accommodations through reps if needed for comfort/safety Magical to be creating life and art simultaneously Next Steps Be prepared with comfy maternity/adjustable audition outfits Disclose pregnancy to reps early, casting once showing Communicate openly with production about accommodations Listen to your body, prioritize health/safety, and give yourself grace

This is a solo episode about the intrusive thoughts we all have. Aren't they wonderful? Not. But let's normalize it, make each other feel a little better and talk about some ways we can deal with them.

Enjoy with raw unedited catch up episode with Cecilia and Emily where they do exactly that: catch up on what they've been up to as moms and creatives. TRANSCRIPTMeeting Purpose Impromptu Zoom meeting to wrap up Season 3 of their podcast Emily booked a co-star role on the HBO Max show The Bookie, joining SAG Emily's daughter turned 2, they had a donut-themed birthday party Cecilia directed a play at her mom's school while away from her kids for 10 days They're excited for an upcoming episode with their husbands, and a "director's cut" episode reacting to it Booked 2 episodes of The Bookie as a co-star with husband Preston, recurring role Had to join SAG, paid $3100 initiation fee Struggled with the cost but excited for the opportunity Also booked a non-union commercial while in St. Louis Donut-themed party at a park Overprepared with decor, gift bags that went unused Learned not to overdo it for kid parties they won't remember Directed a play at her mom's school, kids learned it in 4 days Proud of the kids, kept a touching note from one student Hard being away from her kids but they handled it well Looking forward to having their husbands on, then reacting in a "director's cut" episode Emily will do solo summer episodes on topics of interest Excited to continue interviewing parents for Season 4 Record the husbands' episode soon Emily will prepare solo summer episodes Start outreach for new Season 4 guests Key TakeawaysTopicsEmily's Recent Work and Joining SAGEmily's Daughter's 2nd Birthday PartyCecilia's Solo Trip to Direct a PlayUpcoming Podcast PlansNext Steps

Elizabeth VonderHaar is a board certified obgyn, currently practicing as an obgyn hospitalist in St. Louis, Missouri.  Areas of interest include lactation support, exercise and rehabilitation (including pregnancy and postpartum), nutrition counseling, and cervical cancer screening.  She is married to an amazing and supportive husband, Greg, and is the mother of 2, Zoe (age 3) and Randy (15 months), and 1 fur baby Layla (9).  She loves utilizing her education and background to help further educate patients, family and friends in having positive impacts in their care.  She loves HIKING, running, functional fitness, and will use any excuse possible to be in the mountains.

Caity Ware is a UCLA alumna and moderately busy twin mom, actor, producer, and executive assistant. She has appeared on American Horror Story, S.W.A.T., and most recently recurred on For All Mankind. Caity has produced more than two-dozen award-winning short films, music videos, and web series (plus a silly little rom-com feature), which have played over 50 festivals, including Tribeca, Dances With Films, and Cleveland, and have been featured on the curated sites Short of the Week and Omeleto. Caity has also produced two critically-acclaimed stage plays, including a sold-out run of The Diary of Anne Frank, which featured poignant talk-backs with Holocaust survivors after performances. Her last three years have been filled with keeping two small humans who climb (and jump off) everything in sight alive, and making sure those around her maintained some form of sanity as they worked to bring the epic Apple TV+ limited series Masters of the Air to life. In her free time she used to love to bake a killer apple pie, but, well, if you've made it this far you probably understand why her time in the kitchen lately tops out at microwaving chicken nuggets.

Tiffany Yvonne Cox is a 1st generation Trinidadian actress, director, writer, and producer. She has been on several regional stages such as Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Kansas City Repertory Theatre, The Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, and more. Select TV credits include: Grey's Anatomy; Dead To Me; Good Trouble and more. She currently can be seen playing Autumn Owens on Reasonable Doubt (Hulu) which was renewed for Season 2. And on Hallmark's Napa Ever After. In Tiffany's spare time she volunteers with CSH Speak Up! (where she supports those who have experienced homelessness in developing their story to share with legislation for more funding towards supportive housing) influenced her to direct and produce. Recent directing/producing credits include: Star Vehicle; Commune; Roadside Assistance; the podcast play LaDonna's Epiphany ft. Anna Maria Horsford. Tiffany started a grassroots group after joining SAG-AFTRA Leadership called MOVING THE DIAL to advocate for Black performers need for equity in Hair and Makeup on set. Since the inception of the group; the commercial and theatrical contracts added protections for people of color and those with textured hair. Follow her work at www.tiffanyyvonnecox.com.

Rae + Myko Olivier met in their senior year at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts and have been navigating/working the industry together ever since. They married in 2015 and welcomed their first child Lucas on Valentine's Day of 2023. Myko has been seen in Castle, Glee, Agents of Shield, and multiple other television shows and movies. Most recently he recurred in the final season of Good Trouble. Rae's credits include SWAT, Glee, The Walking Dead and The Best of Enemies alongside Sam Rockwell and Wed Bentley. Both actively write and produce their own work as well! IG Accounts: @rae.olivier and @thisismyko

Emmy Mattingly is an actress, writer, singer, and voice over artist originally from Louisville, KY. She graduated from Florida State University with a BFA in Musical Theatre. Before moving to LA, she performed as an  Equity Principle Performer at Walt Disney World Florida in  "Voyage of the Little Mermaid" and "Disney Jr. Live on Stage!". Just a few months after settling in LA, Emmy booked a recurring Guest Star on all episodes of Disney Channel's "Liv and Maddie"  as Liv 2 and as LINDA in Season 4.She has also booked roles on various networks  including NETFLIX ("Lucifer"), HBOMAX ("Verbatim"),  Nickelodeon ("Side Hustle", “Knight Squad”), MTV (“Mary+Jane”,  “Faking It)”, and YouTube Red Series (“WERID CITY”). However, becoming a Mom five months ago has been Emmy's most favorite and life changing role of all. There is nothing better than waking up every day as Cayden's mama!

Laine Monica Cordell began her journey  in musical theatre at the age of ten, and received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in Los Angeles. She wrote, directed and produced her own play for the Hollywood Fringe Festival in 2010, and spent some much loved time on the West Coast building her TV and film resume. In 2014, Laine moved back to Missouri to be closer to family, and met her wife, Felisity, in Springfield. They were married August 30, 2015 and now reside happily with their four sons and four dogs. Laine is a proud faculty member at Missouri State University in the Theatre & Dance Department where she teaches  Acting Fundamentals and Voice & Movement.

Secret Mom Hacks Podcast Get ready to dive into the whirlwind of juggling motherhood with a career in the spotlight. In this heart-to-heart, first-time mom and actress Emily Bolt and I swap tips on everything from the effortless convenience of grocery aisle purees to the essential gear that keeps our worlds spinning, like the much-loved sound machine. We get real about our emergency c-sections, the emotional rollercoaster of childbirth, and the deep need for self-care amid our busy lives. From keeping our skin radiant to teaching our little ones life's big lessons, we're covering it all. Whether you're sipping coffee in Nashville or tending to your toddler in L.A. (or somewhere in between), join us as we embrace the mess, the beauty, and the hacks that make motherhood truly extraordinary. Tune in now—you won't want to miss this!

Amanda Lenker Doyle, CSA is a self proclaimed treasure hunter. Obsessed with all things shimmery and bright, she has dedicated her life to the hunt for gems, jewels…and actors. After nearly two decades in film and television casting, Amanda has earned numerous accolades for her work. In 2018, she took home an Artios trophy for her work in Los Angeles theater production of “WAITING FOR GODOT” and in 2022, her short film "PLEASE HOLD" received an Academy Award nomination, showcasing her expertise in identifying and nurturing talent. Also notable among her credits is the critically acclaimed film "R#J," which made waves at Sundance and SXSW in 2021 as well as the hit film "WE BROKE UP," currently streaming on Hulu. She has contributed her casting expertise to many popular TV series such as "BLACK-ISH" and "THE MUPPETS" for ABC, "ZAC & MIA" for Netflix, and "WAYNE," now available on Amazon Prime. Beyond her role as a Casting Director, Amanda has also made a significant impact as a Producer. With a passion for bringing stories to life, she excels in overseeing all aspects of a production, from concept development through post. Her strong leadership skills and ability to assemble exceptional creative teams have resulted in the successful realization of numerous projects. As a Producer, Amanda understands the importance of creating an environment where talent can thrive. A connector-of-artists in all aspects of her creative life, Amanda believes that every actor should have an opportunity to shine — and she can't wait to see what beautiful gems she digs up.

Chanel Celaya Watkins was born in La Jolla, California. Her father Andrew Celaya, is from Florence, Arizona while her mother Betsey is from La Jolla, California. Chanel comes from a mix of Mexican and Russian ethnicity. Chanel started modeling from the age of 13. After her mother encouraged her to take some acting classes, which she was reluctant to join at first, she happily started her acting career. After just a few years of taking acting classes, she was able to appear in the movie 21 Jump Street and after that made her big scene in Justin Bieber's hit music video: "As Long As You Love Me." She will soon star in the new MTV series: "Inbetweeners

Rob Benedict is an actor who has appeared in more than 100 episodes of television including Supernatural, Lucifer, Masters of Sex, Bosch and Felicity.  Film credits include Waiting with Ryan Reynolds, Kicking & Screaming with Will Ferrell, Not Another Teen  Movie and 30 Miles from Nowhere.  Upcoming projects include season 4 of The Boys for Amazon Prime and the movie Connescence with Keven Bacon.  He is also the lead singer of LA based rock band Louden Swain.

Staci Roberts-Steele serves as the Managing Director and Executive Producer at Yellow Dot Studios, Adam McKay's non-profit climate media company. Before that Roberts-Steele was a production executive at Hyperobject Studios with McKay and co-produced Don't Look Up, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence and Meryl Streep. Roberts-Steele also produced the Webby and Ambie nominated podcast Last Movie Ever Made about the making of Don't Look Up. She's also appeared in several film/television shows, including Parks and Recreation, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, 90210 and in McKay's Vice and Don't Look Up. Roberts-Steele is an alumni of Vassar College as well as Second City and IO Chicago.

Alexandra Wright is a classically trained actress with a BA from the University of Southern California and an MFA in Acting from Harvard University. She has also trained internationally in London at the British American Drama Academy and at Stanislavski's Moscow Art Theatre in Russia.  Recently nominated by Broadway World as Performer of the Decade, Alexandra has been fortunate enough to perform in London, Paris, Moscow, and Scotland, and has had the opportunity to work with exceptional artists such as Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Josh Brolin, Neil Patrick Harris, Neil Gaiman, Scott Zigler, Kevin Bright (creator of Friends), the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and Nancy Meckler from the RSC.  In addition to her regional theatre work, Alexandra's film and television credits include a series regular on Vertical Network's Solve, recurring roles on ABC and Freeform, and guest stars on NBC, CBS, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and HBOMax on shows like Chicago PD, This is Us, Grace and Frankie, Outer Range, Greek, and Julia. She has worked alongside Shonda Rhimes, KJ Steinberg, and Oscar winners Jim Sheridan, Louis Gossett, Jr, Jane Fonda, and Morgan Freeman.  Alexandra has trained extensively at UCB and has also performed stand up multiple times at the legendary Comedy Store and Flappers. Commercially, she has been the spokesperson for Proactiv and Lenovo computers, has had numerous national commercial campaigns, including Weight Watchers, Osteo Bi Flex, Blue Buffalo, and Budweiser, and has been the voice for brands such as Yelp, Service Titan, and Hop Skip Drive.  Alexandra also produces, writes, and hosts a podcast on Shakespearean classics, cocktails, and casting called Shake Shake Shake. She is a professor of acting, Shakespeare, and voice at UCLA. Passionate about mentoring and fostering community for artists, she also runs an online community for actors and private acting clients called The Delta Acting Community.  Landon Marshall has trained at many studios. However, he did not start out that way. He was all District in Football in High School. Thus him going to college at Maryville College to play football. While there he Majored in History, Minored in Film. He played for two years leading the league in touchdowns and yards. But was unfulfilled.  After dropping out of Maryville, he enrolled at Middle Tennessee State Univ. He was wanting to walk on for football, but found out halfway through the semester his tuition had not been paid. So he left. Working landscaping, construction jobs.  His father passed away in 2011. He decided now is the time. He trained with Alan Dysert, Ed Coupee, Caroline Locorriere. Caroline had the most impact on him. He has worked with Jake Owens, Chris Carmack, Stephen Cragg, Alan Powell, Rodney Atkins, Chris Young, and Robin Williams. Robin Williams last film was BOULEVARD.  Moved to Los Angeles in 2015. Has studied with Warner Loughlin, Alice Carter, Annie Grindlay, and now with Cameron Watson. He has found himself more and more interested in theater. He did community theater growing up, but did not explore it. Now, he has come to realize how theater is so important to the arts. To the art of acting, writing.  He runs his own Golf company that brings people of like minds together. He is a 4 handicap golfer himself. He currently works at Delilah, the hottest nightclub in LA.

CARA CHUTE ROSENBAUM, CSA is a Casting Director based in Los Angeles, CA. Notable credits include THE MINDY PROJECT, THE PEOPLE VS OJ SIMPSON, THE CARMICHAEL SHOW, and THE LEAGUE. Together she and Erica S. Bream are the Casting Directors for the mainstage productions at The Blank Theatre in Hollywood, including The Blank's prestigious Annual Young Playwrights Festival for which they were awarded the 2018 Artios Award for Outstanding Casting for Los Angeles Theatre. Cara is also an audition coach and passionate advocate for actors. She is a proud member of the Casting Society of America, Teamsters Local 399, The Casting Directors Cut, a mama of 2, and an aquarium lover.  Twitter/Instagram: @ccrcasting Website: ccrcasting.com

Alyshia Ochse is a multifaceted talent based in Los Angeles, renowned for her versatile roles across television and film. Widely recognized for her compelling portrayal of "Lucy" alongside Matthew McConaughey in HBO's acclaimed series TRUE DETECTIVE, she continues to captivate audiences with her performances. Currently starring in the Hulu/Onyx Studios hit series The Other Black Girl, adapted from the New York Times best-selling novel, Alyshia demonstrates her range as an actress. Her impressive repertoire includes appearances in Emmy-winning productions like #FREERAYSHAWN, as well as popular shows such as HBO's BALLERS, THE PURGE, and LIFE SENTENCE on CW and Netflix. On the big screen, she has left her mark in notable films like THE OTHER WOMAN, MARAUDERS, and SHE'S IN PORTLAND. Beyond acting, Alyshia is a dynamic entrepreneur, hosting the widely acclaimed podcast THAT ONE AUDITION, where she engages in candid conversations with industry luminaries, and co-founding "The Bridge for Actors," a groundbreaking online program designed to empower aspiring actors with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the industry. With an impressive array of accomplishments to her name, Alyshia Ochse continues to shine as an actress, author, podcast host, and dedicated mother.

Join us as we catch up with each other to chat about what's been going on in our lives as moms and creatives and get ready for Season 3!

Oh boy. What a trip it is to see what our bodies can do. There are so many different feelings about everything that happens to our bodies during and after pregnancy - let's talk about it!

Cecilia and I both share our experiences of how we handled our maternity and postpartum work schedules. As artists, we dont really get a maternity leave so what are we supposed to do? Let's talk about it!