Key Takeaways

- Vanessa recently returned to acting after a 2-3 year break to focus on motherhood

- Both emphasize the importance of intentional parenting and maintaining a sense of self

- Vanessa finds strength and identity in motherhood, contrary to the common narrative of "losing oneself"

- Both are balancing motherhood with pursuing acting careers, facing industry challenges

Topics

Current Events and Personal Reflections

- Discussed emotional impacts of recent world events

- Vanessa shared her family's immigrant background and current societal parallels

- Both expressed gratitude for their families' well-being amid global challenges

Parenting Philosophies and Experiences

- Emphasized importance of play and reading in child development

- Vanessa's approach: intentional parenting, fostering grit and strong sense of self in daughter

- Discussed challenges of balancing personal identity with motherhood

- Shared experiences of children's growth and milestones (e.g., Scarlett turning 3 soon)

Acting Careers and Motherhood

- Vanessa's return to acting: signed with new agency (ARPA) 2 months ago

- Current opportunities: on avail for ABC's "Dr." show and two national commercials (Lowe's and Home Depot)

- Discussed challenges of re-entering industry as a mother

- Both aim for roles in "horrible" but popular TV shows for stability

Personal Care and Coping Strategies

- Vanessa's lifesaver: Epsom salt baths (eucalyptus and lavender scent)

- Other strategies: heating pads, good sleep, alkaline water