In this episode, we sit down with photographer and conscious parent Kismet Nakai. Together, we unpack the raw, real, and deeply human experience of motherhood — from the early months of sleep deprivation to navigating identity shifts, partnership dynamics, and parenting philosophies in modern India.

Kismet candidly shares her journey of raising her daughter Vera — with structure, warmth, a sense of humour, and most importantly, grace for herself. This episode offers a blueprint for parents who are seeking permission to do things differently, tune out the noise, and lean into what truly works for their family.

🎧 Why You Should Listen

You’ll hear Kismet reflect on:

• The tension between structure and surrender
• Making peace with asking for help
• Breaking the myth of “perfect parenting”
• Co-parenting as equal partners (and calling out the praise gap)
• The small things that make big differences — like a consistent sleep schedule
• Letting go of comparison culture
• Teaching children to be emotionally aware, resilient, and curious

💬 Notable Quotes from Kismet

• “There should not be this thing that, ‘Oh, he’s such an involved father.’ No—he IS the father.”
• “You don’t see a 15-year-old with a pacifier. So, it’s fine.”
• “Every mother goes through some sort of loss of self. It’s impossible not to feel that at some point.”
• “Just... enjoy them. This moment. Right now.”
• “If you’re chasing that sameness, then this is not what you should do.”
• “There are only 18 summers with your kids. Seven have already gone.”

🧠 Practical Takeaways for Listeners

• Sleep is sacred – Kismet swears by sleep training and shares how it transformed her parenting experience. Don't wait too long to create sleep rhythms that work for everyone.
• Baby-led everything – From weaning to routine-setting, Kismet lets her daughter take the lead, introducing trust and agency early.
• Get help, guilt-free – Whether it's a nanny, a lactation consultant, or paid sleep support — if it helps you show up better, it's worth it.
• Don’t fear mess – Dirty floors, food flinging, emotional outbursts — it’s all a part of healthy development.
• Build your village – Kismet is part of a mom group that celebrates different choices. Find yours or build one!
• Let go of the “old you” – Embrace the evolution. Trying to “bounce back” to your pre-parent self is not just unrealistic — it can steal joy from the now.
• Humour helps – A light heart can shift even the most stressful days. Laugh often, especially at yourself

📚 Resources & References

• Taking Cara Babies – Baby Sleep Courses (https://takingcarababies.com)— a resource Kismet recommends investing in
• The Danish Way of Parenting by Jessica Joelle Alexander & Iben Sandahl — philosophies that echo Kismet’s approach to emotional intelligence and independence
• La Leche League International (https://llli.org)— global support network for breastfeeding

👤 About the Guest

Kismet Nakai is a photographer, storyteller, and deeply intentional parent. Based in Chandigarh, she brings a thoughtful, nuanced voice to both her artistic work and her parenting choices. Kismet's approach to motherhood is rooted in self-awareness, respect for the child, and a refusal to perform perfection. Whether she’s experimenting with baby-led weaning or navigating modern co-parenting roles, she shows up with honesty, humility, and humor.

📱Follow Kismet on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kisjayenn

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