In this episode of Mommywood, Emily chats with Mary Elizabeth Kelly, a writer, actor, comedian, and new mom. They discuss the challenges and joys of motherhood, the evolution of Mary’s creative career, and how becoming a parent has shifted her perspective on comedy and content creation. The conversation touches on the importance of community among mothers, the balance between personal life and social media presence, and the unique experiences that come with being a parent in the entertainment industry.

Takeaways

Mary Elizabeth Kelly is a multifaceted creative navigating motherhood.

The transition to motherhood can shift priorities and creative focus.

Building a supportive network is crucial for new moms.

Social media can be a powerful tool for connecting with audiences.

Impersonation skills can be honed from a young age and become a career.

The joy of making children laugh is unparalleled for parents.

It's important to share the realities of motherhood, both good and bad.

Creativity can thrive even amidst the challenges of parenting.

The perception of motherhood often includes fear and negativity, but it can also bring joy.

Every parent's journey is unique, and it's important to follow your instincts.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome

01:26 Meet Mary Elizabeth Kelly

05:12 Journey from Connecticut to LA

09:37 The Art of Impersonation

15:17 Navigating Social Media and Career

22:48 The Challenges of New Motherhood

30:31 Shifting Content Focus as a Mom

35:04 Building a Support Network

39:40 Balancing Creativity and Parenting

50:57 The Joy of Making People Laugh

01:00:09 Advice for Aspiring Parent-Actors

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In the world of Hollywood, where glitz and glamour often take center stage, the realities of parenthood can sometimes feel overshadowed. In this episode of Mommywood, I sit down with casting director Josh Einsohn, who shares his unique perspective on balancing a flourishing career in entertainment with the challenges of being a single dad.

Understanding the Dual Roles

Josh Einsohn is not only a renowned casting director but also a single father to a vibrant two-year-old daughter. He delves into how these two worlds collide, revealing how becoming a parent has redefined his approach to casting and storytelling. He explains, "How becoming a parent changes the way you see actors, how casting changes the way you parent." This duality is a recurring theme throughout their conversation, highlighting the complexities and joys of managing both roles.

Navigating Parenthood

Josh reflects on the early days of parenting, admitting that he felt like a "freshman in college" when it came to raising a child. He shares the bittersweet experience of watching his daughter grow and the emotions tied to each stage of her development. "You're always mourning the child that isn't anymore while you're falling in love with this new creature who is in front of you," he notes, showcasing the emotional depth of parenthood.

The Impact of the Entertainment Industry

The conversation takes a deeper dive into the logistics of balancing Hollywood deadlines with parenting responsibilities. Josh candidly discusses the challenges of managing school pickups and bedtime routines while navigating the pressures of the entertainment industry. He reflects on how working with colleagues who are also parents has been a significant support, stating, "It's been a lot easier than I thought."

The Adoption Journey

Josh shares his journey to becoming a dad through adoption, revealing the personal struggles he faced along the way. He recounts how the pandemic served as a period of reflection, leading him to make the decision to adopt. "I feel like this is doable," he said, emphasizing the confidence he gained during that time.

Breaking Stereotypes

A particularly poignant part of the discussion revolves around the misconceptions surrounding single fathers. Josh highlights the surprising reactions he receives from others, noting the gender biases that still exist. "I think that there is... everybody's sort of shocked and surprised and amazed that like, you can do that by yourself," he shares, raising important questions about societal expectations.

Conclusion:

Josh Einsohn's journey as a single dad in the entertainment industry is both inspiring and relatable. His candid insights shed light on the often-overlooked challenges and triumphs of parenthood in a demanding field. As he navigates his dual roles, he demonstrates that with the right support and mindset, it is possible to build a fulfilling career while being an engaged parent.

Key Takeaways:

- Balancing a career in the entertainment industry with single parenthood is challenging yet rewarding.

- The emotional journey of parenting involves celebrating growth while mourning the past.

- Support from colleagues who understand parenting can make a significant difference.

- Breaking down stereotypes surrounding single fathers can help reshape societal perceptions of family.

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We’re wrapping up Season 6 and taking a beat to reflect — on the highs, the chaos, and everything we’ve learned along the way. This episode dives into the messy, beautiful world of emotions — ours and our kids’. We talk about how little ones express their feelings (sometimes loudly), how our own reactions shape those moments, and why staying calm — even when it’s hard — can change everything. It’s about learning to communicate, not just correct, and finding connection in the chaos.

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Summary

The conversation delves into the importance of embracing change in both personal and professional life. The speaker emphasizes the necessity of making timely decisions when things aren't working out and acknowledges the emotional challenges that accompany such changes. Trusting one's timing and feelings is highlighted as crucial for navigating career paths effectively.

Takeaways

If something's not working out, I won't wait as long to make a change.

Big changes can be scary.

Change is hard no matter what.

Allowing yourself to have whatever feelings you have around them is important.

You have to trust your timing.

Trust where you want your career to go.

Finding new representation is a big thing for actors.

It's okay to feel emotional about change.

Making changes can lead to a better life.

You have to make those changes.

This week on Mommywood, I got to sit down with the incredible Kaitlin Becker — you probably know her as Meekah from the Blippi world. Kaitlin’s story is such a ride — she started out in musical theater in New York, somehow found herself in children’s programming, and ended up as part of this huge franchise that parents and kids everywhere know.

We talked about everything — from how that all started to what it’s been like stepping away from Mika to focus on her son Everett, who’s now eight and hitting that big kid stage. She was so honest about co-parenting, traveling for work, the financial side of being a single mom, and the pressure to stay “on” when people recognize you from your kids’ favorite show.

It’s real, it’s funny, and it’s such a reminder that even when it looks like someone has it all figured out — they’re probably just doing their best, like the rest of us. 💜

Summary

Parenting and Life Transitions

They discussed Kaitlin's 8-year-old son Everett, who is transitioning from a young child to a pre-teen, and the challenges of parenting at this stage. Kaitlin expressed nostalgia for Everett's younger years and anxiety about upcoming changes, including puberty.

Kaitlin shared her journey of joining the Blippi franchise in 2020, starting with a role in Blippi's Treehouse, which led to a longer-term commitment after initial testing in Los Angeles. She described the unique experience of joining the YouTube and streaming world, initially unaware of the character Blippi, and how the role evolved from a short-term gig to a more permanent franchise position.

Kaitlin shared her experience of leaving New York for three months and the challenges of co-parenting while traveling frequently for work. She discussed her transition from musical theater to children's programming, including her role in the NBC kids' show "Sunnyside Up," which required extensive experience working with children. Kaitlin explained her decision to leave the character of Mika behind, despite the challenges of doing so, as she needed to prioritize her personal life and well-being.

Emily and Kaitlin discussed the challenges of balancing Kaitlin's public persona as Meekah with her personal life. Kaitlin shared how she sometimes censors herself on social media.

Kaitlin described the difficulties of transitioning away from Mika, including financial struggles and the challenges of being a single parent in a high-cost city.

Kaitlin discussed her experience adjusting to the challenges of managing a double income household and her current creative projects, expressing impatience with the development process. She emphasized the importance of balancing her desire to work with her responsibilities as a mother, choosing to be selective about her opportunities to ensure she can be present for her family. Kaitlin shared how becoming a mother has influenced her approach to work, prioritizing mental health and family over financial gain.

Emily and Kaitlin discussed the challenges of balancing work and motherhood, emphasizing the guilt associated with prioritizing oneself while trying to meet financial and parental responsibilities. Kaitlin highlighted the pressure of social media comparisons and the misconceptions about her financial status, expressing a desire for authenticity and relatability.

Emily and Kaitlin engaged in a light-hearted conversation about acting, parenting, and personal preferences. Kaitlin shared her experiences as a mother and an actor, including her thoughts on balancing career and family life. She advised other actors becoming parents to stay true to themselves and not feel guilty about taking breaks when needed.

In this episode of Mommywood, host Emily talks with Beth Crosby, known as Garbage Mom on Instagram. They explore the chaotic yet beautiful world of motherhood, the challenges of aging, and the importance of honesty and humor in parenting. Beth shares her journey of creating a community through her comedic content, the realities of being a 'Garbage Mom', and her aspirations for future projects, including a unique music festival celebrating women in midlife. The conversation is raw, funny, and relatable, making it a must-listen for moms everywhere.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Mommy Wood

03:15 The Birth of Garbage Mom

12:54 Navigating Motherhood and Aging

20:09 The Vulnerability of Sharing

24:47 Acting and Motherhood: A Balancing Act

30:25 Navigating Self-Taping Challenges

33:11 Balancing Family and Public Life

34:35 Advice to Pre-Mom Self

38:47 The Reality of Parenting and Career

40:16 Future Aspirations and Creative Projects

43:58 Rapid Fire Parenting Questions

Takeaways

Beth Crosby embraces the imperfections of motherhood.

The term 'Garbage Mom' is a badge of honor for real moms.

Comedy can be a powerful tool for connection among mothers.

Navigating the transition from young mom to midlife is challenging.

Honesty in parenting can create a supportive community.

Social media can amplify the voices of mothers.

It's important to share experiences while respecting children's privacy.

The pressure to be funny can be overwhelming for content creators.

Creating content can be a form of therapy for mothers.

Future projects can stem from personal experiences and community needs.

Today on Mommywood, we’re joined by the incredible Alysha Young — actor, podcaster, and founder of Love Talent Mama. You might know her as the voice behind the ‘Acting Like a Mom’ podcast, where she keeps it real about juggling motherhood and the entertainment industry. Alysha’s a mom of two young kids, and somehow still finds time to inspire other moms in the biz with her honesty, humor, and heart. We’re diving into what it means to chase your creative dreams while raising tiny humans — and how she’s building a supportive space for moms who get it.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Naming Journey

02:39 Navigating Motherhood in the Acting Industry

05:41 The Challenges of Balancing Family and Career

08:34 Deciding to Have Children as Actors

11:32 Experiences of Pregnancy and Early Motherhood

14:34 The Impact of Children on Relationships

17:31 Auditioning with Kids and Family Dynamics

20:25 The Decision to Move for Family and Career

23:19 The Reality of Self-Taping and Auditioning

26:07 Navigating the Industry as a Family

29:13 The Emotional Journey of Motherhood

31:50 Advice for Aspiring Parents in the Industry

34:42 The Joys and Challenges of Parenting

37:33 Final Thoughts on Family and Career

Takeaways

The podcast name reflects the challenges of motherhood in acting.

There is a growing community of mothers in the acting industry.

Balancing family and career is a common struggle for actors.

Pregnancy can change one's perspective on career aspirations.

Having children can enhance life experiences, not hinder them.

Communication is key in relationships when raising children.

Self-taping has changed the audition landscape for actors.

It's important to give oneself grace during parenting challenges.

The love for children can be overwhelming and transformative.

Deciding to have children should not be solely based on career considerations.

Summary

In this episode of Mommywood, Emily engages in a heartfelt and humorous conversation with comedian Brittany Ross about the challenges and joys of motherhood intertwined with a career in comedy. They discuss the identity shifts that come with being a mom, the balancing act of parenting and performing, and how Brittany's experiences shape her comedic material. The conversation also touches on the decision to expand the family, the emotional journey of pregnancy, and the unique perspective of a stand-up mom navigating the complexities of parenting in public. Brittany shares her insights and advice for aspiring mom comedians, emphasizing the importance of humor and authenticity in their journeys.

Takeaways

Comedy can be a coping mechanism for motherhood.

The identity shift that comes with being a mom is significant.

Balancing parenting and a performing career is challenging but rewarding.

Public parenting can be particularly difficult due to judgment from others.

It's important to share personal experiences in comedy.

The decision to have a second child can be complex and emotional.

Pregnancy can bring unexpected challenges and mental health struggles.

Having a supportive partner is crucial for managing family and career.

Children's perspectives on their parents can be brutally honest.

Finding humor in parenting struggles can be therapeutic.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Mommy Wood

00:58 The Roller Coaster of Motherhood and Comedy

09:14 Balancing Act: Parenting and Performing

14:45 The Evolution of Comedy Post-Motherhood

19:17 Navigating the Challenges of Parenting

26:33 The Decision to Expand the Family

33:04 The Journey of Pregnancy and Miscarriage

39:04 The Unique Perspective of a Stand-Up Mom

49:00 Advice for Aspiring Mom Comedians

In this episode of Mommywood, host Emily speaks with actress and on-camera confidence coach Brittany Noel about her journey through motherhood and the creative process behind her new short film, 'Postpartum.' They discuss the challenges of balancing a career in the arts with parenting, the importance of maternal mental health, and the need for more support for mothers. Brittany shares her insights on how motherhood has influenced her career goals and the significance of creating content that resonates with other moms. The conversation highlights the power of community and the importance of sharing stories that can spark change.

Takeaways

Brittany Noel emphasizes the importance of expressing motherhood experiences through art.

The film 'Postpartum' aims to raise awareness about maternal mental health.

Mothers often feel pressured to balance career and family life.

Brittany's journey reflects the challenges of being a creative parent.

The need for more support and resources for new mothers is crucial.

Community support can amplify important conversations about motherhood.

Brittany's on-camera coaching helps non-actors feel confident in front of the camera.

The film industry can benefit from more stories told by mothers.

Moms often bond over shared experiences and challenges in parenting.

Brittany's passion for storytelling drives her creative endeavors.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mommy Wood and Brittany Noel

02:27 Motherhood Journey and Balancing Career

06:20 The Impact of Motherhood on Creative Pursuits

12:44 Navigating Career and Family Life

18:06 On-Camera Confidence Coaching and Content Creation

23:02 The Future of Video Marketing and AI

25:11 Navigating Parenthood and Career

28:29 Shifting Goals and Perspectives Post-Parenthood

31:13 Creating Art from Experience: The Short Film Journey

36:14 The Pressures of Postpartum and Maternal Mental Health

39:57 Rallying Support for Change in Maternal Policies

45:02 The Power of Community and Shared Experiences

Summary

In this episode of Mommywood, host Emily sits down with Rachel Rosenbloom, an actor and new mom, to discuss the challenges and joys of balancing motherhood with a creative career. They explore Rachel's journey into motherhood, the adjustments she faced, and the support she found in her community. The conversation touches on the realities of pregnancy, returning to work, and the surprises of motherhood, all while emphasizing the importance of asking for help and relying on friends.

Takeaways

Rachel shares her experience of balancing motherhood and a creative career.

The importance of community support for new parents is highlighted.

Rachel discusses the challenges of pregnancy while working in the entertainment industry.

The conversation emphasizes the need for open communication with partners about parenting.

Rachel reflects on the surprises of motherhood, including the logistics of caring for a baby.

The significance of finding confidence as a new mom is explored.

Rachel encourages new moms to ask for help and rely on their friends.

The episode discusses the emotional journey of returning to work after having a baby.

Rachel shares her hopes for her daughter's memories of laughter and joy.

The conversation concludes with advice for new actor moms navigating their careers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mommy Wood and Rachel Rosenblum

01:28 Balancing Motherhood and a Creative Career

07:47 The Journey to Motherhood: Decisions and Challenges

13:29 Navigating Pregnancy and Work

21:12 Returning to Work After Baby

29:02 The Surprises of Motherhood

35:38 Finding Confidence as a New Mom

42:39 Advice for New Actor Moms

56:12 Closing Thoughts and Community Support