All we need is one special person in our life to change our destiny. When Irina mentioned that her grandmother had taught her to sew, I knew there was something very telling about her maternal role models in her life.  Irina introduces us to her mother, Etya and Grandmother Beyla, who was a seamstress. Unfortunately, Etya's father died when she was a young teen in Russia.

Etya was born and lived in Russia till the age of 25. She was one of three children, came from a poor family at a time when it was difficult to be successful in Russia. Etya was the kind of child that "always wanted more than what was available," says my guest about her mom.

My guest, Irina was born in Russia  and came to America as a Jewish refugee when 2 1/12 years old.  What is it like to grow up with a mother who always thought of herself first?  "She told me I  that I was worthless and stupid all the time" says Lester of her mother.  "I was always in her way and she was always exhausted by me." Irina says she developed survival skills at a very young age.

It wasn't until Beyla, Irina's grandmother, insisted on taking her granddaughter to her place of work as a seamstress or to her home, "where she felt safe, loved and cared for and allowed to be a kid," continues Lester. This is when and how Irina's life started to turn around.  I know that there are many children that never get this lifeline through out their life. Irina got lucky but there certainly are many scars that she wears with frustration, hurt  and humility.

Previously divorced and a single mom, Irina struggled to care for her young daughter, so she's familiar with what her mother experienced, but it doesn't mean that you have the right to mistreat and/or abuse your child because you are a narcissist. 

"The local Yarn Store",  in  large part, is due to the influence her grandmother had on my guest's life. Beyla introduced  Irina  to embroidering and hand stitching and so much more.  Irina says, "my grandmother taught me to appreciate the beauty and the creative process and the functionality of the basics of clothing."  Luckily, Irina inherited her grandmother's sewing machine and is now an avid knitter.

Hear the full story when you listen to this episode of SHLTMM.

https://thelocalyarnstore.com/

https://www.facebook.com/The-Local-Yarn-Store-324924261265048

"Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and  answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.

Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:

SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024

“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”

Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee.  This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.

Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths.

This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in our society.  Whether your mother influenced you positively or you thrived despite challenges, this show resonates deeply.

I highly recommend “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast for its insightful, heartfelt and enriching content.

Gina Kunadian

"Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In 2018/2019, in getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal stories of their relationship with their mother, for better or worse and what they learned from that maternal relationship. 

Some of my guests include Nationally and Internationally recognized authors, Journalists, Columbia University Professors, Health Practitioners, Scientists, Artists, Attorneys, Baritone Singer, Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist, Activists, Freighter Sea Captain, Film Production Manager, Professor of Writing Montclair State University, Attorney and family advocate @CUNY Law; NYC First Responder/NYC Firefighter, Child and Adult Special Needs Activist,  Property Manager, Chefs, Self Help Advocates, therapists and so many more talented and insightful women and men.

Jackie has worked in the broadcasting industry for over four decades. She has interviewed  many fascinating people including musicians, celebrities, authors, activists, entrepreneurs, politicians and more.

A big thank you goes to Ricky Soto, NYC based Graphic Designer, who created the logo for "Should Have Listened To My Mother".

Check out our website for more background information: https://www.jackietantillo.com/

Or more demos of what's to come at https://soundcloud.com/jackie-tantillo

Link to website and show notes: https://shltmm.simplecast.com/

Or Find SHLTMM Website here: https://shltmm.simplecast.com/

Listen wherever you find podcasts:

https://www.facebook.com/ShouldHaveListenedToMyMother

https://www.facebook.com/jackietantillo

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/shouldhavelistenedtomymother/

https://www.instagram.com/jackietantillo7/

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-tantillo/

YOUTUBE: 

https://www.youtube.com/@ShouldHaveListenedToMyMother