The Modern Frida
The Modern Frida is a podcast for creatives who crave inspiration and real connection. Here Jenn blends music reviews, creative insights, and heartfelt reflections on the ups and downs of life as an artist.
It’s a warm, encouraging space to grow, learn, and be inspired by both the artists we love and the art we’re creating within ourselves.<3
The Modern Frida
76. Balancing Motherhood and Creativity: Embracing Imperfection and Self-Care with Jess Langley
“I don’t want to be a parent that is constantly worrying and trying to control my child’s every move because I am anxious; that’s how I define a helicopter parent.”
In this episode of The Modern Frida, Jess Langley returns to the podcast to share her incredible journey into motherhood. Jessica is a creative and first-time mom who unexpectedly let go of her business ambitions and embraced the joys of motherhood.
She takes us through the whirlwind of emotions and experiences she encountered when balancing creativity and parenthood.
Listen in to learn how to navigate the doubts and insecurities that come with shifting focus in the creative business.
You will also learn the power of giving yourself permission to be imperfect and embrace flexibility and adaptability in yourparenthood journey.
What You Will Discover in This Episode:
• [00:01] Introducing Jess Langley – her return to the podcast.
• [01:40] Jess reflects on her life before discovering she was pregnant and her initial fears and feelings of resentment.
• [06:00] How motherhood pushed her to embrace her long-standing desire to pivot to fine art.
• [10:01] She shares her labor and birthing experience and common misconceptions about labor.
• [18:32] Shifting priorities in motherhood – how her business took a backseat to her new role as a mother.
• [21:51] The realization that too many projects were mentally and creatively taxing, plus learning to be flexible.
• [24:19] How motherhood challenged her need for control, the emotional labor of parenting, and her striving to be more adaptable.
• [30:06] Why she wishes more people would ask how they can support her as a mother.
• [33:39] Different ways to offer support to mothers and approach conversations around support.
• [37:44] Jess on why people love kids and how that has shifted for her since becoming a mother.
Connect with Jess on IG here
Listen to episode 4 with Jess on making money imperfectly 🧡