Leaning Into Being

What if your everyday chaos was proof that you’re doing more than enough?

In this episode, Amri Kibbler and Erika Hanafin share a funny, honest, and deeply relatable conversation about managing modern motherhood, co-parenting, and the little hacks they use to stay grounded amidst the chaos. From snackable workouts to navigating blended families, they unpack what it really means to “lean into being” in the thick of life.

Whether you’re running a company, raising a family (or both), this episode reminds you that structure and softness can coexist—and that you’re not alone in the mess.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why productivity isn’t always the answer—and how both hosts redefine daily wins through non-negotiables and routines that actually work.
• The different ways the “mental load” shows up in marriages, parenting, and even grocery planning.
• How Erika’s divorce and Amri’s cancer journey shaped new resources to support moms in tough seasons.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro

(00:36) Travel adventures and family dynamics

(01:32) The mental load of parenting

(02:39) Managing daily tasks and schedules

(05:19) Morning routines and personal time

(08:07) Balancing work and family life

(12:48) Sports and hobbies

(19:03) Challenges of parenting with cancer

(20:51) Navigating divorce and financial strain

Resources:

• Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
• Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
• Connect with Amri:  https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/

What does it mean to truly accept yourself in motherhood, in recovery, and in the messy middle of everyday life?

Hilary Phelps, advocate, speaker, and wellness coach, joins the show to talk about the long road to self-acceptance, her 17-year journey through sobriety, and the emotional work it takes to be present as a mother. From her days as a record-breaking swimmer to her decision to enter treatment alone, Hilary’s story is one of quiet strength, vulnerability, and the power of asking, “What do I need right now?”

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Redefining success in motherhood: Hilary shares how she let go of the pressure to be “enough” by anyone else’s standards, and what it took to feel grounded in her own definition of motherhood.
• Living sober in a culture that celebrates drinking: From early stigma to the rise of sober curiosity, Hilary reflects on how the conversation around sobriety is changing, and why acceptance starts with self-compassion.
• The four bodies of wellness: Emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual wellness all play a role in showing up fully. Hilary explains how tuning into each one helps her stay balanced and resilient, even on the hardest days.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro

(01:29) Hilary’s motherhood journey and self-acceptance

(02:37) Balancing motherhood and self-care

(04:19) Hilary's sobriety journey

(06:04) The rise of sobriety and its impact

(10:25) Navigating social situations sober

(12:18) Holistic health and wellness

(15:19) Daily non-negotiables for well-being

(20:13) Advice for women balancing life's demands

(23:43) Reflecting on personal growth and achievements

Resources:

• Connect with Hilary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilary-phelps-6143695/ 
• Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
• Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
• Connect with Amri:  https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/

What does it take to find balance and authenticity while navigating the ups and downs of modern motherhood?

Tara Clark, founder of Modern Mom Probs, speaker, podcaster, and advocate for maternal mental health, shares her honest journey through infertility, toddler tantrums, and the challenges of raising a tween. From building a supportive community online to redefining what it means to be a “super mom,” Tara offers a refreshing perspective on embracing imperfection and finding presence in the everyday.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Letting go of unrealistic expectations: Tara talks about the pressure moms face to do it all and how stepping off the “mommy train” of constant busyness creates space for mindfulness and intentional parenting.
• The power of community: Building and leaning on a supportive network can transform isolation into connection. Tara explains why reaching out to friends and finding your village is essential for resilience.
•  Navigating motherhood with presence: Whether dealing with tantrums, tween sass, or balancing work and family, being fully present in each moment helps manage stress and fosters deeper relationships.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(00:25) Tara's journey into motherhood

(01:29) From career to stay-at-home mom

(01:57) Starting Modern Mom Probs

(03:05) Navigating tween challenges

(06:12) Balancing work and family

(08:07) Embracing presence and authenticity

(09:47) Advocating for maternal mental health

(11:26) Time management and self-care

(15:08) Advice for struggling moms

(21:14) Reflecting on parenting challenges

Resources:

• Connect with Tara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-clark-27a496228/ 
• Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
• Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
• Connect with Amri:  https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/

What does it take to survive and thrive in life’s most chaotic moments?

Nicole Young, broadcaster, writer, entrepreneur, and CEO of Frisky Whiskey, knows firsthand the challenges of navigating entrepreneurship and motherhood. As the first Black woman to own a flavored whiskey brand, Nicole shares her journey of breaking barriers, building resilience, and finding purpose in the face of setbacks. From launching a bold new venture in the competitive spirits industry to recovering from a near-catastrophic business disruption, her story is a testament to perseverance and grit.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Finding calm amidst the chaos: Juggling family, career, and personal goals can feel overwhelming, but creating intentional pauses can shift your perspective. Taking moments to slow down, refocus, and recharge helps you navigate life’s challenges with more clarity and grace.
• Strength in preparation: Being prepared financially, emotionally, and practically is the key to weathering life’s storms. Organizing your time and resources creates a foundation of resilience, ensuring you’re ready to handle whatever comes your way.
• Turning setbacks into opportunities: Challenges aren’t roadblocks; they’re stepping stones. Whether it’s a business setback or a personal struggle, embracing obstacles as learning experiences allows you to grow, adapt, and return stronger.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro

(02:01) Nicole's journey into motherhood

(02:56) Balancing motherhood and career

(04:05) Challenges of black motherhood

(06:36) Finding presence and slowing down

(09:48) Treating your body to the best

(13:41) Frisky Whiskey and breaking barriers

(17:14) Flavor for Good
(20:14) Advice for moms and future plans

Resources:

• Connect with Nicole: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleyoungstyle/ 
• Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
• Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
• Connect with Amri:  https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/

What if reinvention wasn’t a one-time event, but a constant rhythm of your life?

Divya Gugnani, serial entrepreneur, investor, and mom of three, shares how embracing change in business,and motherhood, has shaped every chapter of her journey. From launching beauty and fragrance brands to mentoring the next generation of founders, Divya opens up about building confidence, finding calm amidst chaos, and leading with authenticity.

This episode is a reminder that confidence doesn’t come all at once. It’s earned through experience, reflection, and showing up again and again.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Motherhood as a mirror: Divya reflects on what it’s like to start over with a baby after a decade-long break, and how involving her older children in the process created a deeper family bond.
• Confidence through action: From a shy, numbers-focused analyst to a bold founder and investor, Divya shares how her confidence grew with every career step, especially through challenges and setbacks.
• Redefining success on your own terms: Whether she’s navigating fundraising, shutting down a business, or leading Wander Beauty into its next phase, Divya talks about managing time, energy, and expectations with intention.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(00:11) Meet Divya Gugnani

(01:30) Divya's motherhood journey

(03:45) Entrepreneurial spirit in the family

((05:33) Balancing self-care and family

(07:38) Leaning Into being

(09:38) The Birth of Wander Beauty

(12:02) Mentoring and advice for entrepreneurs

(18:32) Challenges as a BIPOC entrepreneur

(21:52) Building confidence and leadership

Resources:

• Connect with Divya: https://www.linkedin.com/in/divya-gugnani-6ba98/ 
• Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
• Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
• Connect with Amri:  https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/

What if the hardest seasons in life became the doorway to showing up fully as yourself?

In this episode, Amri Kibbler and Erika Hanafin, share a deeply personal conversation about the challenges and growth that come with navigating life’s toughest moments as mothers and entrepreneurs. From cancer diagnoses to divorce, co-parenting, and the constant hustle of building a business, they discuss how they’ve learned to slow down, lean into being, and build their own supportive teams.

This episode is a reminder that true strength is found not just in doing, but in simply being — in showing up for yourself even when it feels hard.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Facing the unexpected: Amri’s journey through a cancer diagnosis and recurrence that reshaped her outlook on life, health, and work.
• Finding monumental moments in the everyday: How small, joyful experiences with children and loved ones can shift your mindset and fuel resilience.
• Motherhood and healing: Erika’s personal story of navigating divorce, co-parenting, and blending families while finding new strength and hope.

This conversation is for any mama who feels overwhelmed by the weight of it all and needs a gentle reminder that you are enough just as you are.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro
(00:39) Podcast acquisition and personal reflections

(02:12) Challenges and shifts in mindset

(03:04) Cancer journey and coping strategies

(05:46) Progress over perfection

(07:13) Monumental moments and support systems

(12:31) Motherhood and family dynamics

Resources:

• Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
• Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
• Connect with Amri:  https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/

What if the hardest season of your life became the catalyst for discovering who you truly are?

Lauren Walsh, a leading brand builder in sports and entertainment, shares a powerful story of personal transformation shaped by motherhood, mental health struggles, and finding her voice. From leading major campaigns to surviving postpartum depression and advocating for her son’s health, Lauren opens up about the moments that tested her—and ultimately reshaped her.

This episode highlights an important reminder that healing begins when you decide to show up for yourself.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

•  Motherhood as a catalyst for transformation: Lauren’s identity shifted after becoming a mother, prompting her to reevaluate her values and purpose. She realized that raising her children with intention mattered more than any career achievement.
• The silent battle of postpartum depression: After giving birth in 2020, Lauren faced severe postpartum depression during the pandemic. Despite being dismissed by others, she found the strength to advocate for herself and heal.
• Authenticity in a male-dominated industry: Lauren now leads with vulnerability and confidence, choosing authenticity over performative professionalism. This shift has deepened her relationships and helped her leave behind unfulfilling spaces.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:34) Lauren's motherhood journey
(04:09) Challenges and resilience in motherhood
(08:58) Postpartum depression and mental health
(12:46) Struggling alone during the pandemic
(12:59) Seeking medical help
(13:59) Dealing with medication side effects
(14:53) Exploring alternative therapies
(16:49) The importance of community support
(26:25) Balancing career and personal life
(28:54) Lauren’s future plans

Resources:
Connect with Bethany: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-braun-silva/
Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
Connect with Amri:  https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/

What if embracing community and breaking the rules could transform your life?

Bethany Braun-Silva, an on-air parenting expert and author of Like a Mother: Banish Guilt, Blaze Your Trail, and Break the Rules to Create a Life You Love, shares her powerful journey of balancing career, motherhood, and self-care. From launching her journalism career to writing a book on empowering moms, Bethany has learned to embrace the chaos and prioritize what truly matters.

Whether you’re navigating motherhood, career, or self-care, this conversation offers valuable insights on how to take the first step toward the life you deserve.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Finding balance in the chaos: Balancing family and career can feel overwhelming, but intentional prioritization can help you regain control. Identify what truly matters in your day-to-day life, set boundaries, and focus on what will bring the most value to both your work and your family.
• Empowering yourself through community: You don’t have to do it alone. Surrounding yourself with like-minded women can provide invaluable support, inspiration, and motivation. Connecting with a community of other mothers and professionals can help you navigate challenges and celebrate wins together.
• Turning guilt into action: It’s easy to feel guilty about taking time for yourself, but self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for your well-being. Learn practical ways to prioritize your mental and physical health, even on your busiest days, so you can show up as the best version of yourself for both your career and your family.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(04:24) Balancing career and motherhood
(06:57) Morning routines and self-care
(08:45) Inspiration behind 'Like a Mother'
(13:20) The power of community
(17:07) Bethany's podcast journey
(24:52) When life gives you lemons...or insulin pumps

Resources:
Connect with Bethany: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-braun-silva/
Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
Connect with Amri:  https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/

Joy can be found in the smallest moments of your day.

Dr. Risa Ryger, a Clinical Psychologist at Risa Ryger Ph.D. Private Practice, sheds light on the feminine experience and hidden assumptions shaping women’s lives. From her work with mothers to her reflections on her own journey, she explores the emotional labor, societal myths, and unspoken expectations that often define womanhood. Dr. Ryger’s insights into “the land of and” and the “four Fs” reveal a profound yet practical path to embracing both joy and boundaries.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. How to find strength in boundaries: Embracing your limits isn’t a weakness—it’s a superpower. By identifying your non-negotiables and learning to say no, you can create space for what truly matters, ensuring that your energy goes toward your priorities, not everyone else’s expectations.
2. How to find joy in the small things: The magic of motherhood and career doesn’t always come in big wins. It’s in the micro-moments: shared laughs, quick hugs, or a quiet coffee break. Training your mind to savor these moments can recharge your spirit and make even the busiest days feel meaningful.
3. How to redefine “enough”: Society often pushes women to believe they should handle it all, but unlimited capacity is a myth. Trusting in your ability to focus on what matters and releasing unnecessary expectations allows you to thrive, bringing balance and joy to work and family life.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00 Intro

(02:15) Centering in motherhood

(08:05) The four f's of the feminine

(11:18) The myth of unlimited capacity

(18:40) Living in the land of and

(21:56) Navigating fatigue and non-negotiables

(27:38) Finding joy in micro moments

Resources:
Connect with Dr. Risa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-risa-ryger-69a47a21/
Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
Connect with Amri: https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/

Unwanted challenges often become the turning points we never expected.

Health and beauty influencer Christine Bullock shares her journey of navigating life's unexpected turns with grace and resilience.
From her decision to embrace adoption after years of fertility struggles to the bittersweet closure of her wellness business, Christine opens up about how these challenges shaped her personal and professional growth. As a mom to three daughters, she reflects on how she and her husband balance parenting and their demanding careers, supporting each other through teamwork and humor.

Christine's story reminds us of the importance of resilience and how life's challenges often lead to newfound strength and purpose.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Advice for health and wellness entrepreneurs: Christine shares her journey of launching her brand, revealing lessons about innovation, funding, and the importance of a strong team. 
• How to raise strong daughters: Christine and her husband are dedicated to empowering their three daughters to be confident, independent, and resilient. They’re teaching them life lessons through both their actions and words.
• New perspectives for a resilient mindset: Christine’s story is a testament to seeing every challenge as a gift—a chance to grow, shift directions, and improve your life. Trust the universe's timing, find strength in faith, and approach obstacles as opportunities.

Jump into the conversation:
(00:00) Intro
(01:25) Christine's journey to motherhood
(01:56) Adoption and fertility challenges
(08:14) Wellness practices for busy moms
(11:30) Christine's wellness philosophy
(15:41) Entrepreneurial insights
(18:55) Balancing family and career
(22:29) Raising strong girls
(26:07) Embracing resilience

Resources:

• Connect with Christine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-bullock-8677351b/
• Follow Leaning into Being: https://www.instagram.com/leaningintobeingpodcast/
• Access Leaning Into Being Resources: www.momumentalmoments.co
• Connect with Amri:  https://www.instagram.com/amrikibbler/
• Connect with Erika: https://www.instagram.com/erikahanafin/