In this heartwarming and hilarious episode of Mommy is Thriving, host Sami Galbo sits down with her longtime friend and brilliant fiction author Daria Levette, creator of Aftertaste — a darkly funny, magical, foodie ghost story that blends grief, humor, restaurants, and a touch of the supernatural.

Together, Sami and Daria dive into what it really looks like to chase a big creative dream while raising little humans. From book tours and deadlines to school drop-offs, tantrums, laundry piles, and the never-ending water bottle drama, this conversation is an honest look at the beautiful chaos of motherhood and ambition.

Daria opens up about her journey from high school writer to published author, how she manages mom life + creative life, balancing guilt and grace, the behind-the-scenes of pitching a novel, and finding magic in the everyday — even while wrangling a golden doodle and three kids.

If you’ve ever wondered how you can still be you while being “mom” to everyone else, this episode will make you laugh, nod, and feel deeply understood.