Mom To MORE® | Midlife Reinvention for Moms

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Sean Pitt, a single mom who bootstrapped her way from adversity to success.

Sean's personal reinvention, years in the making, allows her to live a life of purpose and strong faith. She started as a Nurse's Assistant and had an epiphany that led her to cosmetology school. She is now a Senior Stylist at Salon Dada in Westport CT.

Join Sharon and Sean as they discuss personal growth through motherhood, the power of choice and encouragement when raising children, and the importance of continuing on when the inevitable roadblocks arise.

Sean's personal motto of recreate, rebuild, resolve and relive will inspire moms to push on when the going gets tough, trust their innate goodness and worthiness, and possess a truly positive outlook on life. As Sean brilliantly exemplifies, anything is possible with perseverance, faith in oneself and hard work.

[00:00] Introduction [00:50] Sean's background [03:14] Overcoming adversity before motherhood [04:52] Discovering pregnancy and choosing a better path [05:50] Sean's commitment to her son's well-being and personal growth [08:32] Sean's career success and supportive community [11:18] Sean's philosophy on life's challenges and learning self-love [12:58] Sean's approach to parenting and letting go [15:56] Embracing life's uncertainties with positivity [18:57] The impact of ministry and living a life of service and light [20:48] Sean's gem of wisdom for daily living [23:24] Being more to others [25:14] Where to find Sean

Learn more about Sean Pitt: Sean can be found at Salon Dada in Westport, CT

Looking for More? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #12 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Mackenzi Gage, mom of 3 and author of "It's a NO From Me. A People Pleaser's Guide To Freedom(ish)" Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Lea Porter, Luxury Realtor in Los Angeles.

Prior to having a family, Lea Porter, had a multi-dimensional background as a financial analyst at Xerox and TRW, as a real estate investor and as a realtor.

She holds a BBA from The University of Texas at Austin and an MBA from Cal State University/Los Angeles. She remains actively involved in many professional associations including Young Presidents' Organization (YPO), Chief Executives' Organization, American Israel Political Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and the Cedars-Sinai Board of Governors.

Lea took a hiatus from the real estate industry for 18 years to raise her family. After her kids had grown and flown, she boldly re-entered the luxury real estate industry in Q4 2021. In 2022, Lea had over $140M in real estate sales and in 2023 hit $154M in sales and is in the top 0.5% of luxury realtors in the nation. Lea has been featured in Los Angeles Business Journal's Top Realtor issue. This woman knows how to sell a property!

Join Sharon and Lea as they discuss the influence her own working parents had on Lea's desire to stay home, Lea's fearless re-entry into the real estate industry, and her wise advice to moms considering their next act.

Lea's journey is a testament to the power of reinvention and the resilience of moms. She didn't let the perceived limitations of her time away from the workforce hold her back. Instead, she tapped into her skills of organization, negotiation, problem-solving and teaching, honed during her years as a stay-at-home mom, and applied them to her real estate career. Her story serves as a reminder that motherhood is not a hindrance to professional growth, but rather a source of strength and valuable skills that can be leveraged in any industry.

[00:00] Introduction [01:58] Lea's background [03:14] How growing up with working parents influenced Lea's decision to become a stay-at-home mom [04:27] The busy life of a stay-at-home mom and the many skills a mom develops during this time [06:47] Finding the humor in motherhood and Lea's unique approach to parenting [10:02] Contemplating a return to work post-COVID [13:18] Adapting to the new realities of real estate in 2021 [18:43] Perception of moms reentering the workforce [22:23] The value of skills acquired as a mom and the ability to take a chance and just go for it. [24:23] Lea's personal challenges to reestablish herself and the surprising "No's" she received from friends [26:52] Advice for moms considering their next act [31:37] Using teaching skills to create Lea's MORE [34:26] Where to find Lea online

Learn more about Lea Porter: Instagram: @lea__porter and @thebeverlyhillsestates Website: leaporterestates.com

Website: thebeverlyhillsestates.com

Looking for more? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Keep an eye out for episode #11 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Sean Pitt, a single mom who bootstrapped her way from adversity to success. Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Deb Perkins, Founder and CEO of Broad of Directors, the company that teaches early-stage entrepreneurs how to build the type of company that gets funded.

A 3X entrepreneur, 2X Intrapreneur, consultant, and digital educator with 20+ years of experience as a founder, co-founder, board member, advisor or founding team member, Deb has worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs in almost every industry.

Deb graduated from Vanderbilt University and attended the Marketing Management segment of Columbia University's Executive MBA program. She is a self-avowed "lifetime learner" and currently resides in Austin, Texas.

Sharon and Deb discuss applying the many mom skills and superpowers in the business world, some challenges that may be faced when starting a business and the need for more women in the entrepreneurial space.

Deb's story is particularly inspiring for other moms as it showcases her resilience and adaptability in transitioning from a high-powered corporate career to being a full-time mom of triplets. She emphasizes the importance of testing ideas, being resourceful, and seeking support from advisors. Deb's journey reflects the inherent resourcefulness of women, and she encourages others to embrace exciting careers that stimulate and fulfill them, regardless of age. Through her work, she aims to address the funding gap for women and underrepresented minorities in the startup world. Overall, Deb's story serves as a beacon of inspiration for moms seeking to reinvent themselves and pursue fulfilling careers beyond traditional roles.

Deb's passion for learning and challenging herself is the driving force in finding fulfillment in her career and making a positive difference in the entrepreneur's lives she touches.

[00:00] Introduction [00:53] Deb's background [02:00] Deb's experience as a Stay-at-Home mom of triplets [03:57] The decision and challenges of leaving full-time work to stay home with kids [06:36] Transitioning from the corporate world to being an entrepreneur [11:35] Skills developed as a stay-at-home mom and their applications in business [15:05] Listening is a valuable skill set that easily transitions from motherhood to business. The various HR skills you use as a mom. [16:38] Encouraging women in entrepreneurship and overcoming funding challenges [19:00] Challenges and struggles in starting Broad of Directors [21:41] Testing ideas and seeking advice are key for entrepreneurs [24:39] Creative funding methods when starting a new business [27:53] A woman's innate resourcefulness and creativity in powering up an entrepreneurial idea [30:23] Deb's perspective on reinvention and pursuing excitement in career [32:08] Where to find Deb online

Learn more about Deb Perkins and Broad of Directors:

Website: https://www.broadofdirectors.com Instagram: @broadofdirectors

LinkedIn: @debperkins

Facebook: @broadofdirectors

Looking for more? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Keep an eye out for episode #10 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Lea Porter, Luxury Realtor in Los Angeles. Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Lee Woodruff, mother of four, best-selling author, multi-platform journalist, executive media trainer, philanthropist and wife of ABC's News Anchor Bob Woodruff. Lee shares her parenting wisdom with grace and humor on a host of universal mom and family related topics..

Lee and Bob garnered critical acclaim for their frank and compelling account of how their lives came together, were blown apart, and miraculously put back together again following Bob's roadside bomb injury in Iraq in their co-authored, #1 New York Times best-selling book In an Instant. Following that, Lee wrote Perfectly Imperfect: A Life In Progress, chronicling her life as a wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend covering topics and challenges every mom can fully relate to.

Together they founded the Bob Woodruff Foundation to ensure our nation's veterans, service members and their families, have stable and successful futures. To date, the foundation has invested over $157 million, complementing our government's work and ensuring our veterans thrive long after they return home.

Sharon and Lee discuss Lee's decision to stay home with their kids, her thoughts on keeping your passions alive during motherhood (yes, it's challenging), giving advice vs letting kids vent, the power of strong female friendships, and finding community during life's toughest moments.

Lee's insights and wisdom offer valuable lessons for moms navigating their own journeys. As we look to the future, it is clear that there is always more to explore and discover, and that the next chapter holds endless possibilities.

[00:00] Introduction [00:49] Lee's background [03:16] Balancing motherhood while keeping your passions alive [04:08] The importance of teamwork in marriage [05:50] The challenges of solo parenting when a spouse is away [09:25] A life changing day at Disney [12:08] Finding inner strength through difficult times [14:17] The power of female friendships [16:59] Lee's wise advice to her "new mom" self [20:31] Building resilience through life's challenges [22:24] Creating the Bob Woodruff Foundation [25:28] Lee's favorite book of all time [27:07] Finding community in difficult times [33:37] Supporting your children through listening [34:55] Lee's next act [36:09] Where to find Lee online

Learn more about Lee Woodruff:

Lee's website: https://leewoodruff.com/Instagram: @leewoodruff

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #9 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Deb Perkins, Entrepreneur and Founder of Broad of Directors. Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Natalie Friscia Pancetti, former SAHM, mom-master of reinvention and author of "This Too…".

Natalie has studied human behavior and habits for almost 20 years - as a teacher, tutor and real estate agent. She holds a BS in Marketing with a minor in Psychology and a Master of Education.

Her passions are her family, her dog, walking, writing and living with a faith-filled positive attitude. Her dad always taught her to not sweat the small stuff and to cherish the sweet spots in life as they all pass too quickly. With an intention for people to feel less alone in their life journeys, Natalie put pen to paper and started compiling phrases based upon his wisdom. Her recently released book, This Too…, shares enlightening "life-isms" that give readers a fresh perspective on everyday life while providing inspirational words to ground you during life's joyful and difficult times. Join Sharon and Natalie as they discuss the role of parents in laying a foundation for their children's future success, the skills and superpowers of stay-at-home moms, and the concept of "life-isms."

Natalie showcases the diverse skills and superpowers that moms possess. Her story highlights the importance of staying true to oneself, following one's intuition, and finding joy in the small moments of life. Natalie's journey is a testament to the resilience and determination of mothers who strive to create their "more" while navigating the challenges and joys of motherhood.

[00:00] Introduction [00:35] Natalie's background [02:10] Natalie's decision to stay home with her children and pursue a teaching career. [04:02] The importance of retooling your skillset (and maybe going back to school) as a SAHM. [06:00] Natalie's father's vision of her becoming a teacher and how it came true. [07:19] The various mom skills and superpowers Natalie honed during her time as a SAHM. [11:40] Importance of maintaining a sense of self and pursuing passions as a mom. [14:00] Cherishing the sweet spots in life. [17:40] The concept of "this too shall pass" and how it can be applied to savoring the small moments in life. [21:53] Trusting your gut. [26:20] The importance of reaching out to others. [29:00] How past experiences and roles have shaped Natalie into the woman she is today. [30:04] Natalie's plan for the future and promoting social emotional learning in schools. [31:28] Where to find Natalie and her book online.

Learn more about Natalie and her new book:

Natalie's website: https://www.nataliefrisciapancetti.com/ You can also find "This Too…" on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Instagram: @nataliefrisciapancetti

Tiktok: @npancetti

Facebook: @nataliefrisciapancetti

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #7 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Lee Woodruff - speaker, author and executive media trainer. Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥ Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Joan Hornig, Founder and CEO of Joan Hornig Jewelry - Philanthropy is Beautiful® and Pavé The Way®

Joan began her career as a professional fundraiser for Harvard University and Columbia Business School before spending 19 years on Wall Street. Since 2003, Joan has combined her love of jewelry and design, business skills and experience with non-profit organizations as Founder and CEO of her philanthropically-driven companies, Joan Hornig Jewelry - Philanthropy is Beautiful® and Pavé The Way®.

Philanthropy is Beautiful® is a unique social enterprise model that donates 100% of profits to each purchaser's charity of choice. Her goal is for every client to enjoy being a philanthropist and enable non-profits they care about to benefit. Both Joan's designs and social enterprise business model have been honored by non-profits, educational institutions and the media. Philanthropy is Beautiful® was named Social Enterprise Innovator of the Year by AI Global Media in 2023, marking the second year in a row receiving this award.

All selected by customers, Joan's donations have raised millions of dollars and are spread among more than 1,000 nonprofits worldwide. Her jewelry designs are worn by numerous stars, business leaders and government officials including First Ladies Laura Bush and Michelle Obama, Former Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Oprah, Lady Gaga, and Jennifer Lopez. Joan's work continues to be a favorite gift from the US State Department to visiting dignitaries.

Join Sharon and Joan as they discuss the power of women supporting women, conscious consumerism and the ability to make a difference through purchasing choices and the importance of believing in oneself.

[00:00] Introduction. [00:32] Joan's background and her journey to becoming a stay-at-home mom [04:43] Joan's jewelry making journey and introduction to Bergdorf Goodman [10:53] The importance of support from other mothers and women [13:31] Joan's innate jewelry making skills and belief in herself [15:31] Testing new jewelry and the importance of jewelry as a form of self-expression [16:54] The inspiration behind Joan's jewelry [22:46] Philanthropy is Beautiful and empowering the purchaser [30:20] Pave the Way and the significance of the pieces [38:08] Joan's second act and empowering moms to pursue their passions. [40:37] What is so fun about jewelry and giving your kids wings [43:38] Lifelong learning and Joan's more [44:56] Where to find Joan and her jewelry online

Learn more about Joan Horning and her work:

Website: www.ptwjewelry.com Instagram: @pavethewayjewelry @joanhornig

Tiktok: @pavethewayjewelry

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #7 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Natalie Friscia Pancetti - author and mother of reinvention. Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Myra Glazer.

Myra Glazer married young and was a SAHM when there were few other choices for women of her generation. She is her family's matriarch and trusted Nana and advisor to her beloved 8 grandchildren. While raising her 3 girls, she did all the mom-things stay-at-home-moms do: Volunteering at her kids' schools, Girl Scout Leader, serving as President of the PTA and sitting on an astounding number of boards.

Myra served as a highly successful fundraiser for local hospitals and numerous organizations and nonprofits. She was involved at the ground level of Friends of Public Television in the city of St. Louis. After raising her children, Myra's "mid life crisis" resulted in her personal reinvention: Going to work for the first time at 50 (and actually being paid) as a reservation specialist and future Travel Academy instructor for TWA Airlines.

Join Sharon and Myra as they discuss the power of teaching, the strength of building connections, and the importance of keeping your brain stimulated at every stage of life.

Myra's journey of personal growth and self-improvement is truly inspiring. She emphasizes the importance of constantly evolving and challenging ourselves to become better and smarter individuals. Her story teaches us the power of a growth mindset and the rewards that come from putting in the effort.

[00:00] Introduction. [01:56] Myra's background and inspiration for being a SAHM. [03:40] Myra's love for staying busy and volunteering. [04:57] Memorable volunteering moments [11:38] Utilizing mom skills and superpowers [14:07] The value of kindness and teaching conflict resolution. [17:01] Myra's time on the national council of Alpha Epsilon Phi Sorority [20:40] Myra's first paying job at age 50 [22:43] Applying communication skills [26:25] 'Just staying home with the kids' is anything but. [28:05] Continuous self-improvement and the importance of keeping your brain stimulated [32:42] Where to find Myra online

Learn more about Myra Glazer: Instagram: @myraglazer

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff. Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #6 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Joan Hornig, founder, designer and owner of Philanthropy is Beautiful Jewelry. Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Melani Lust, the award-winning visionary artist behind Melani Lust Photography.

Originally from San Diego, Melani came to New York to pursue dance and was accepted into the prestigious Alvin Ailey School of Dance. After dancing both commercially and Off-Broadway, she realized show business was not for her. Melani went to NYU to major in Math and interned one summer in Finance where she realized she was bored out of her mind. She went back to NYU and changed her major to Art History, receiving both her BA and MA. Melani worked at Sotheby's in 19th century European paintings, which marked the beginning of her artistic journey and development of her uniquely artistic eye as a future award-winning wedding photographer. Melani is a mom of 3 and raised her kids in Westport, Connecticut. She is also passionate about environmental causes and hopes to dedicate more of her time to philanthropy in the future.

Join Sharon and Melani as they discuss the power of slow growth, embracing imperfections and the art of delegation.

Melani's journey reminds us that success doesn't happen overnight. Her story is a testament that building something meaningful takes time and patience. It is possible to start small while the children are young, grow your business, passion or hobby as your kids grow, and as you are welcoming more 'me time' into your schedule. No dream is too big or too small, and with determination, anything is possible!

[00:00] Introduction.

[00:51] Melani's background and her reasoning for being a SAHM.

[05:24] The "birth' of Melani Lust Photography and creating a career that allowed for staying home with the kids.

[09:36] How Melani got into wedding photography.

[11:14] Jumping in, even when not feeling fully confident.

[13:11] How Melani has refined her eye over time

[17:14] Melani discusses her favorite place to shoot, and why.

[18:35] Prioritizing, the art of delegation and setting boundaries.

[20:06] The impact that working had on Melani's children

[20:41] Dedicating more time to philanthropic work.

[23:50] Where to find Melani and Melani Lust Photography

Learn more about Melani Lust and Melani Lust Photography:

Website: https://melanilustphotography.com/ Instagram: @melanilustphotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelaniLustPhotography

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #5 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Myra Glazer, family matriarch and forever teacher who got her first paying job at the age of 50. Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Alison Bruhn, the mom of the mother-daughter duo who founded The Style That Binds Us - the original next-generation women's media company and community.

Alison is a national style and image consultant based in New York City with clients across the country. Alison reinvented herself in her 50s when she studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and later co-founded The Style That Binds Us with her daughter, Delia Folk.

The purpose of her work is to empower women through creating a visual brand and transforming their style to ignite a new path of confidence and independence.

Alison's expertise is frequently called upon by top-tier publications including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, The Zoe Report, Byrdie, Forbes, HuffPost, Bustle, Well+Good, Elle, Condé Nast Traveler, People, InStyle, The Everygirl, Brides, Southern Bride & more, as well as public speaking engagements & podcast interviews.

Join Sharon and Alison as they discuss overcoming societal expectations, embracing change and the importance of growth and learning at all ages.

Alison overcame her fear of other people's opinions of an appropriate career and followed her own unique interests. Her story shows us that it's never too late to pursue your passions, take risks and create a new path forward.

[00:00] Introduction

[02:02] Alison's background and her reasoning for being a SAHM

[05:44] The benefits of women's intuition and what sparked Alison's reinvention

[09:15] Pursuing personal fulfillment through fashion.

[11:21] Rediscovering forgotten passions.

[16:30] New business endeavors and tips on building a core professional wardrobe.

[18:58] Pushing the envelope and having the courage to try new things.

[22:14] The many skills you have to offer as a mom.

[22:56] Life over 40 and having each other's backs.

[28:19] Alison shares style tips.

[32:11] Staying busy and surrounding yourself with friends of different ages.

[37:11] Where to find Alison and The Style That Binds Us.

Learn more about The Style That Binds Us:

Website: https://thestylethatbindsus.com/ Instagram: @thestylethatbindsus

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thestylethatbindsus

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChFVuT_XmJMPPnrK7rjGbIw

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #4 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Melani Lust, world renowned wedding and editorial photographer. Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guests Shawnee Knight and Tina Kramer, founders of the non-profit Filling In The Blanks which fights childhood hunger by providing children in need with meals on the weekends.

In 2013, Knight and Kramer created Filling In The Blanks, which has now expanded to include over 100 sites, including schools, after school programs, and camps throughout Fairfield and Westchester Counties and has delivered over 2 million weekend meals to children in low income households. These two multidimensional moms created something so essential in their extended community, and they now serve an extraordinary 5,500 kids a week.

Join Sharon, Shawnee and Tina as they discuss taking the first step, the importance of asking questions, moving forward with your vision, and not taking "No" for an answer.

Shawnee and Tina are true visionaries, whose passion, determination, and ability to rally the community have led to the success of Filling in the Blanks. Their dedication to their mission and their ability to overcome challenges make them an inspiration to other stay-at-home moms looking to make a difference.

[00:00] Introduction

[01:45] Shawnee and Tina's background and the Importance of being Stay-at-home-moms

[03:16] How Shawnee and Tina met and the beginning of their nonprofit journey.

[05:01] The beginning of Filling in the Blanks and the challenges faced during the growth of the organization.

[08:24] The importance of asking questions and the education and learning involved when considering your next act

[14:10] Shawnee and Tina discuss the struggles they faced in their journey and how they pushed through them.

[16:55] Plans for growth, engaging new schools, the importance of community support and upcoming events.

[22:50] Shawnee and Tina share their personal definitions of "MORE" and provide advice to other moms.

[28:02] Where to find Filling in the Blanks online.

Learn more about Filling in the Blanks:

Website: https://www.fillingintheblanks.org/ Instagram: @filling_blanks

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FillingintheBlanks1/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FillingintheblanksOrgNewCanaan

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #3 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Alison Bruhn, co-founder of The Style That Binds Us. Coming soon - you won't want to miss it ♥