Mommywood Recut: Past Episode, Present Moment

This week I’m revisiting one of the conversations that means more to me now than it did when we first recorded it.

When I originally sat down with Marla Sokoloff, I was a brand-new mom trying to figure out how motherhood and acting could possibly coexist. Marla was already living it — raising three daughters while navigating a long career in Hollywood and shifting from acting into directing and creating her own work.

In this edited highlight episode, we talk about the part of motherhood creative women don’t say out loud enough: losing momentum, redefining success, the guilt of being away from your kids, and the mental load of trying to be present at home while still holding onto your identity.

We also get honest about body image after pregnancy, the pressure around breastfeeding, and why sometimes the career you planned isn’t the one that ultimately fits your life.

If you’ve ever worried that becoming a parent might erase the version of yourself you worked so hard to build — this conversation is for you.

In this episode of Mommywood, host Emily Bolt engages in a candid conversation with Annie Gerard and Diana Wright, an award-winning writing and directing duo behind Girwrighty. They discuss the intricacies of collaboration in the entertainment industry, the challenges of balancing motherhood with a creative career, and the evolution of their partnership. The conversation touches on the impact of parenthood on creativity, the realities of working with major studios, and the importance of self-promotion in a competitive field. With humor and honesty, they share their experiences and insights, encouraging listeners to embrace their creative journeys and redefine success on their own terms.

Takeaways

Collaboration is key to sustaining a creative partnership.

Motherhood can enhance storytelling and empathy.

Navigating the entertainment industry requires resilience and adaptability.

It's important to communicate openly in partnerships.

Parenting is a creative endeavor in itself.

Success is redefined through the lens of parenthood.

The industry is often chaotic and unpredictable.

Self-promotion is essential for career advancement.

Creative projects can stem from personal experiences.

Finding balance between work and family is a continuous journey.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mommy Wood and Guests

01:58 The Genesis of a Creative Partnership

05:38 Navigating Motherhood and Career

11:35 The Impact of Parenthood on Creativity

17:27 The Challenges of Collaboration in Hollywood

23:29 Finding Balance Between Work and Family

29:19 The Evolution of Comedy Across Mediums

35:19 The Reality of Working with Big Studios

41:15 Staying Motivated in a Creative Career

47:08 Redefining Success as a Parent

53:03 Lightning Round: Quickfire Questions

58:40 Current Projects and Future Aspirations

In this episode of Mommywood, Emily engages in a heartfelt conversation with Katie Santry, a beloved mom influencer. They explore the complexities of motherhood, the importance of community, and the challenges of maintaining personal identity while navigating fame. Katie shares her journey from being a YouTuber to a mom of two, discussing the impact of social media on her life and the significance of authenticity in her content. The conversation highlights the need for support among mothers and the value of prioritizing self-care and personal time. Through laughter and honesty, they emphasize that motherhood is a unique journey for everyone, and building a supportive community can make all the difference.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mommy Wood and Guest Introduction

02:47 Katie's Journey from YouTube to Motherhood

05:56 Navigating Fame and Personal Identity

09:01 The Impact of Motherhood on Self-Identity

11:56 The Challenges of Balancing Career and Family

14:41 The Return to Social Media and Viral Moments

17:46 The Honest Side of Motherhood and Community Building

20:46 The Importance of Maintaining Personal Identity

23:50 Navigating Relationships and Parenting Dynamics

26:36 Building a Supportive Community for Moms

29:46 The Business of Social Media and Brand Collaborations

32:39 The Evolution of Content Creation and Authenticity

35:27 Advice for New Moms and Embracing Community

38:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts