Podcast interview with dancer/actress Tyne Stecklein about balancing motherhood and career in the entertainment industry.

Tyne's Art

Key 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 kids

Recent 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 her

Balancing 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 flexibility

Postpartum 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 currently

Career 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 entertainment

Advice 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