Creative Mamas Unplugged

Riding (0:00). Kira on creativity beyond genre (3:10), the creative toolbox (6:05), Kira discusses the power of truth in performance (8:30), encouraging independence in children, the courage it takes to let go and trust the process and yourself (12:00). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/-Xr-upxDIvk Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Kira Powell Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   Follow Kira: Website: https://www.kirapowell.com/ Instagram @itskirapowell IMDb https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2451581/ AWD https://www.allianceofwomendirectors.org/find-a-director/director/kira-powell/ Kira’s Linktr.ee @ https://linktr.ee/KiraPowell Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged BIO: Kira Powell is an award-winning, NAACP Image Award-nominated writer-director and SAG-AFTRA actor of African American and Ecuadorian descent. She holds an MFA in Directing from the American Film Institute Conservatory. Whether in coming-of-age drama or psychological horror, her films explore identity and inheritance, often through multiracial and immigrant experiences, examining the consequences of love under pressure — how devotion, protection, and survival shape people, for better and for worse.  Kira received a Directors Guild of America Jury Award at the 2024 DGA Student Awards for Outstanding Directing for her AFI thesis coming-of-age short BEST EYES, which premiered at the Academy Award®–qualifying Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) and has been nominated for Outstanding Short Form (Live Action) at the 57th NAACP Image Awards. BEST EYES also won First Place in the Afro-Latino Short Film Competition sponsored by Lexus and presented by the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) and the Latino Entertainment Journalists Association (LEJA).  Kira’s short films have screened at festivals including Urbanworld, Screamfest, Tallgrass, and Black Harvest Film Festival. Her award-winning one-woman show CAUGHT IN THE MIX, about Black–Latinx identity, was staged at multiple venues across Los Angeles and recognized for its social impact, laying the groundwork for the themes she continues to explore on screen. As an actor, Kira has appeared in film, television, and numerous national commercials. Her credits include the indie cult hit THE ENDLESS, directed by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead (Moon Knight, Loki), which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival; Jif’s “That Jif’ing Good” campaign—named one of Adweek’s Top Commercials of the Year; and collaborations with directors Larry Charles (Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm) and John Hillcoat (The Road). She is currently developing a slate of film and television projects. Outside of filmmaking, she’s traveled to over 40 countries and has a deep love for the theater. You’ll usually find her discovering a new restaurant, in the audience at a live show, or onstage.  GRANTS & ACCOLADES 2026 57th NAACP Image Awards nominee - Outstanding Short Form (Live Action), Best Eyes. 2025 AAFCA/LEJA Afro-Latino Short Film Competition, sponsored by Lexus — 1st Place, Best Eyes.  2025 Grand Jury Award, Narrative Short— Awareness Film Festival, Borders.  2025 Georgia Latino International Film Festival — Best Student Short, Best Eyes 2024 DGA Student Jury Award, Student Film Awards — Best Eyes (national honor from the Directors Guild of America for outstanding directing) 2024 Perenchio Family Endowed Scholarship – AFI Conservatory (awarded for artistic excellence) 2023 Gary Winick Scholarship – AFI Conservatory (recognizing directing talent and creative promise.) 2023 Scott Patterson Scholarship – AFI Conservatory (honors talent and creative vision) 2022 SAG Foundation Dales Scholarship — awarded to long-standing SAG members to support continued studies and career transition. 2021 Hollywood Fringe Festival — Soaring Solo Social Impact Award, Best of Broadwater, and Diversity Scholarship for Caught in the Mix (award-winning solo show written, directed, and performed by Kira Powell) LABS, FELLOWSHIPS & PROGRAMS Sundance Institute – Feature Film Program (Development Track) – Second-Round Contender, Best Eyes (feature screenplay), 2025. Sundance Institute – Cultural Impact Residency – Finalist, Best Eyes (feature screenplay), 2025. Athena Film Festival Writers Lab – Shortlisted, Best Eyes (feature screenplay), 2025. The Gotham Film & Media Institute — Accountability Sprint: Artist Statements — Selected Participant (2025) Walmart x mítu Filmmaker Program – Shortlisted, Hi Mija (short screenplay), 2025. Cherokee Film & Amazon MGM Studios Directors Elevation Program- shortlisted. (inaugural directing apprenticeship), 2025.

“Rewardment” (0:00), Kira shares her story from acting to directing, and the work and exploration that led her along this journey (7:30), Kira’s perspective on storytelling 15:00), Kira on pursuing a master’s degree in film, continuing to grow creatively, and what it means to follow your artistic calling (22:30). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/3EGm49tZ5QU Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Kira Powell Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions Follow Kira: Website: https://www.kirapowell.com/ Instagram @itskirapowell IMDb https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2451581/ Alliance of Women Directors https://www.allianceofwomendirectors.org/find-a-director/director/kira-powell/ Kira’s Linktr.ee @ https://linktr.ee/KiraPowell Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged BIO: Kira Powell is an award-winning, NAACP Image Award-nominated writer-director and SAG-AFTRA actor of African American and Ecuadorian descent. She holds an MFA in Directing from the American Film Institute Conservatory. Whether in coming-of-age drama or psychological horror, her films explore identity and inheritance, often through multiracial and immigrant experiences, examining the consequences of love under pressure — how devotion, protection, and survival shape people, for better and for worse.  Kira received a Directors Guild of America Jury Award at the 2024 DGA Student Awards for Outstanding Directing for her AFI thesis coming-of-age short BEST EYES, which premiered at the Academy Award®–qualifying Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) and has been nominated for Outstanding Short Form (Live Action) at the 57th NAACP Image Awards. BEST EYES also won First Place in the Afro-Latino Short Film Competition sponsored by Lexus and presented by the African American Film Critics Association (AAFCA) and the Latino Entertainment Journalists Association (LEJA).  Kira’s short films have screened at festivals including Urbanworld, Screamfest, Tallgrass, and Black Harvest Film Festival. Her award-winning one-woman show CAUGHT IN THE MIX, about Black–Latinx identity, was staged at multiple venues across Los Angeles and recognized for its social impact, laying the groundwork for the themes she continues to explore on screen. As an actor, Kira has appeared in film, television, and numerous national commercials. Her credits include the indie cult hit THE ENDLESS, directed by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead (Moon Knight, Loki), which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival; Jif’s “That Jif’ing Good” campaign—named one of Adweek’s Top Commercials of the Year; and collaborations with directors Larry Charles (Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm) and John Hillcoat (The Road). She is currently developing a slate of film and television projects. Outside of filmmaking, she’s traveled to over 40 countries and has a deep love for the theater. You’ll usually find her discovering a new restaurant, in the audience at a live show, or onstage.  GRANTS & ACCOLADES 2026 57th NAACP Image Awards nominee - Outstanding Short Form (Live Action), Best Eyes. 2025 AAFCA/LEJA Afro-Latino Short Film Competition, sponsored by Lexus — 1st Place, Best Eyes.  2025 Grand Jury Award, Narrative Short— Awareness Film Festival, Borders.  2025 Georgia Latino International Film Festival — Best Student Short, Best Eyes 2024 DGA Student Jury Award, Student Film Awards — Best Eyes (national honor from the Directors Guild of America for outstanding directing) 2024 Perenchio Family Endowed Scholarship – AFI Conservatory (awarded for artistic excellence) 2023 Gary Winick Scholarship – AFI Conservatory (recognizing directing talent and creative promise.) 2023 Scott Patterson Scholarship – AFI Conservatory (honors talent and creative vision) 2022 SAG Foundation Dales Scholarship — awarded to long-standing SAG members to support continued studies and career transition. 2021 Hollywood Fringe Festival — Soaring Solo Social Impact Award, Best of Broadwater, and Diversity Scholarship for Caught in the Mix (award-winning solo show written, directed, and performed by Kira Powell) LABS, FELLOWSHIPS & PROGRAMS Sundance Institute – Feature Film Program (Development Track) – Second-Round Contender, Best Eyes (feature screenplay), 2025. Sundance Institute – Cultural Impact Residency – Finalist, Best Eyes (feature screenplay), 2025. Athena Film Festival Writers Lab – Shortlisted, Best Eyes (feature screenplay), 2025. The Gotham Film & Media Institute — Accountability Sprint: Artist Statements — Selected Participant (2025) Walmart x mítu Filmmaker Program – Shortlisted, Hi Mija (short screenplay), 2025. Cherokee Film & Amazon MGM Studios Directors Elevation Program- shortlisted. (inaugural directing apprenticeship), 2025.  

Going into labor during Grandpa’s wild, yet helpful night (0:00), invisible expectations, and the quiet pressure to look like you’re handling everything just fine (4:12), losing and rediscovering yourself in motherhood (12:47), burnout and boundaries (20:18), you’re crazy amazing and so powerful (27:36). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/cxHrH_HXYvc Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Lauren Cox Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   Follow Lauren: Website: laurencox.org Instagram @humanlauren UMass Instagram @umassdance MAMA DANCERS film @ https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0QOGUV70EII1808UEY01MW8I6L/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   BIO Lauren Cox is a storyteller of many mediums, originally from the SF Bay Area. As Associate Director and Assistant Professor of Jazz Dance and Pedagogy at UMass Amherst, she is deeply interested in studying and creating spaces for communal sanctuary and recognizes these practices as a blueprint for radical reclamation and transcendence.  She has performed, researched and taught in over ten countries, seeing the world as a classroom. Using New York as a base, Lauren developed curriculum and traveled internationally for Joffrey Ballet School while also teaching at The Ailey School, Limón Company II, Broadway Dance Center and Peridance. Her immersive and site-specific work on “Spaces” with Kaimera Productions highlights themes of storytelling, dance and collaborative justice. With the company she has erected the show in Harlem, New York; Saint-Denis, France; Oakland, California; Albany Park, Chicago (2027); and has done adjacent work with Kaimera in Queens, New York with “Make Justice Normal”, on The Island of Jean Charles, Louisiana with the Biloxi -Chitimacha-Choctaw Tribe and on the Island of Mozambique with the Slave Ship Wrecks Project for the Smithsonian of African American History. Notable works and performances include: TedX Asbury Park and the consequential film, “Edelweiss” (2026/27); featured dancer in the documentary “Mama Dancers” streaming on Amazon Prime; Principal Performer in Randy Weiner and Ryan Heffington’s immersive off-broadway experience “Seeing You”; Associate Choreographer/Dance Captain and Swing for John Leguizamo’s “Kiss My Aztec” at Berkeley Rep, several performances on Saturday Night Live; and with Alicia Keys, Gwen Stefani, Coldplay, Pharrell, Joey Yung plus many more commercials, music videos and live shows, including resident host of Stories from The Basement and Brinda Guha’s “Wise Fruit: Celebrating the Feminine Divine”.

The wrong applesauce (0:00), Life with a toddler and a newborn, gratitude for support, and showing up as a mom, artist, and human (3:15), radical honesty (5:45), support and finding a new dance every single time (11:10), not having it together as strength, asking for help and our mom tribes (16:20). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/rmkqhbFZCn0 Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Lauren Cox Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   Follow Lauren: Website: laurencox.org Instagram @humanlauren UMass Instagram @umassdance MAMA DANCERS film @ https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0QOGUV70EII1808UEY01MW8I6L/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   BIO Lauren Cox is a storyteller of many mediums, originally from the SF Bay Area. As Associate Director and Assistant Professor of Jazz Dance and Pedagogy at UMass Amherst, she is deeply interested in studying and creating spaces for communal sanctuary and recognizes these practices as a blueprint for radical reclamation and transcendence.  She has performed, researched and taught in over ten countries, seeing the world as a classroom. Using New York as a base, Lauren developed curriculum and traveled internationally for Joffrey Ballet School while also teaching at The Ailey School, Limón Company II, Broadway Dance Center and Peridance. Her immersive and site-specific work on “Spaces” with Kaimera Productions highlights themes of storytelling, dance and collaborative justice. With the company she has erected the show in Harlem, New York; Saint-Denis, France; Oakland, California; Albany Park, Chicago (2027); and has done adjacent work with Kaimera in Queens, New York with “Make Justice Normal”, on The Island of Jean Charles, Louisiana with the Biloxi -Chitimacha-Choctaw Tribe and on the Island of Mozambique with the Slave Ship Wrecks Project for the Smithsonian of African American History. Notable works and performances include: TedX Asbury Park and the consequential film, “Edelweiss” (2026/27); featured dancer in the documentary “Mama Dancers” streaming on Amazon Prime; Principal Performer in Randy Weiner and Ryan Heffington’s immersive off-broadway experience “Seeing You”; Associate Choreographer/Dance Captain and Swing for John Leguizamo’s “Kiss My Aztec” at Berkeley Rep, several performances on Saturday Night Live; and with Alicia Keys, Gwen Stefani, Coldplay, Pharrell, Joey Yung plus many more commercials, music videos and live shows, including resident host of Stories from The Basement and Brinda Guha’s “Wise Fruit: Celebrating the Feminine Divine”.

Erika Shannon Hathaway, Part 4: We Were Way Worse at 13 (There’s Just No Proof) Talk to text, watch out! (0:00), candid discussion about letting kids swear at home (2:17), how wild, curious, and unsupervised we actually were at 12 and 13 (3:56), parenting in the digital age: phone contracts, Instagram vs Snapchat and those disappearing messages (5:12), The Olympics, Snoop Dogg and Lindsey Vonn (15:59). WATCH PART 4 ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/fDbLWMVRXa8 And watch Parts 1-3 on YOUTUBE too!  - Part 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiaucEYStfo&t=298s - Part 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4A2kkZk299I&t=477s - Part 3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q0WIgMvqn5M Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Erika Shannon Hathaway Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   Follow Erika: All of Erika’s fab work can be found here at www.erikashannon.com Instagram: @erikashannonmovement  Erika’s News: I start a new cohort of MenoPoise on February 9th: https://www.erikashannon.com/menopoise Socials everywhere (Insta, FB, TikTok: erikashannonmovement   Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   Erilka’s Bio:  I’m a seasoned fitness industry expert, coach, and producer with 20 years experience. A former professional dancer turned theatrical General Manager, I found my way to fitness in New York City, where I taught for fitness brands including Equinox, Reebok, SoulCycle, and Daily Burn. As a Producer and Content Strategist, I’ve produced thousands of workouts, programs, and related content. I also consult with startup brands in the fitness and wellness space, helping them build and scale.  As a Certified Menopause Coach Specialist, I’m passionate about helping women navigate the menopause journey with confidence and strength, so they can and make a powerful entrance into their next chapter. No matter what side of the table I'm on, I remain driven by a passion for instilling connection and confidence through the power of movement.  

Dance teachers, whaaat?! (0:00), perimenopause and menopause as the flip side of what our girls are going through (3:43), breaking from taboo while raising and protecting our kiddos (5:43), things our children are reading and watching from romance novels to Dexter, Breaking Bad and Stranger Things (11:58). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/q0WIgMvqn5M Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Erika Shannon Hathaway Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   Follow Erika: All of Erika’s fab work can be found here at www.erikashannon.com Instagram: @erikashannonmovement  Erika’s News: I start a new cohort of MenoPoise on February 9th: https://www.erikashannon.com/menopoise Socials everywhere (Insta, FB, TikTok: erikashannonmovement   Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   Erilka’s Bio:  I’m a seasoned fitness industry expert, coach, and producer with 20 years experience. A former professional dancer turned theatrical General Manager, I found my way to fitness in New York City, where I taught for fitness brands including Equinox, Reebok, SoulCycle, and Daily Burn. As a Producer and Content Strategist, I’ve produced thousands of workouts, programs, and related content. I also consult with startup brands in the fitness and wellness space, helping them build and scale.  As a Certified Menopause Coach Specialist, I’m passionate about helping women navigate the menopause journey with confidence and strength, so they can and make a powerful entrance into their next chapter. No matter what side of the table I'm on, I remain driven by a passion for instilling connection and confidence through the power of movement.

Facials (0:00), we unpack auditions, casting heartbreak, and how teaching our kids to handle rejection with perspective builds long-term confidence and grit (3:44), teachers reframe rejection into purpose (9:35), mentorship and embracing the teacher within us all to give back (11:40). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/4A2kkZk299I Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Erika Shannon Hathaway Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   Follow Erika: All of Erika’s fab work can be found here at www.erikashannon.com Instagram: @erikashannonmovement  Erika’s News: I start a new cohort of MenoPoise on February 9th: https://www.erikashannon.com/menopoise Socials everywhere (Insta, FB, TikTok: erikashannonmovement   Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   Erilka’s Bio:  I’m a seasoned fitness industry expert, coach, and producer with 20 years experience. A former professional dancer turned theatrical General Manager, I found my way to fitness in New York City, where I taught for fitness brands including Equinox, Reebok, SoulCycle, and Daily Burn. As a Producer and Content Strategist, I’ve produced thousands of workouts, programs, and related content. I also consult with startup brands in the fitness and wellness space, helping them build and scale.  As a Certified Menopause Coach Specialist, I’m passionate about helping women navigate the menopause journey with confidence and strength, so they can and make a powerful entrance into their next chapter. No matter what side of the table I'm on, I remain driven by a passion for instilling connection and confidence through the power of movement.

Four or seven (0:00), Erica shares how her fitness routine has evolved through perimenopause, embracing Reformer Pilates, group classes, injury recovery, and teaching again (4:30),  relocating to Pittsburgh, returning to performance after years away and how resilience is learned through example, not perfection (8:30).   WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/WiaucEYStfo Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Erika Shannon Hathaway Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   Follow Erika: All of Erika’s fab work can be found here at www.erikashannon.com Instagram: @erikashannonmovement  Erika’s News: I start a new cohort of MenoPoise on February 9th: https://www.erikashannon.com/menopoise Socials everywhere (Insta, FB, TikTok: erikashannonmovement   Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   Erilka’s Bio:  I’m a seasoned fitness industry expert, coach, and producer with 20 years experience. A former professional dancer turned theatrical General Manager, I found my way to fitness in New York City, where I taught for fitness brands including Equinox, Reebok, SoulCycle, and Daily Burn. As a Producer and Content Strategist, I’ve produced thousands of workouts, programs, and related content. I also consult with startup brands in the fitness and wellness space, helping them build and scale.  As a Certified Menopause Coach Specialist, I’m passionate about helping women navigate the menopause journey with confidence and strength, so they can and make a powerful entrance into their next chapter. No matter what side of the table I'm on, I remain driven by a passion for instilling connection and confidence through the power of movement.

To kick off the New Year, we went digging through the archives and pulled together some funny stories from the past. From laugh-out-loud moments to “did that really just happen?” memories, it’s here, cut together for your enjoyment!  Sit back, laugh with us, and enjoy the mayhem. Happy New Year! Let’s dive in. WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/GTIj0QWB6eQ Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guests: Producer Jess, Ellyn Marsh, Kelly Park, Nikki Snelson, Lynzy Lab Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged  

Thanksgiving gratitudes (0:00), shingles and urgent care bonding (5:10), send in your stories (8:23), kids’ interpretations (10:07), driving around schools (11:26), Zootopia (12:29). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/7Yc6XMPuNrI Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Producer Jess Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   This episode with myself, Cher, and Jess is Part 2 of our December 14th recording, filled with pre-holiday chaos and real-life parenting moments. This is a no-filter conversation about the absolute madness of motherhood and parenting — from emergency room bonding and road rage, to spiritual confusion, community connection, and the reminder that when we feel messy, we are never alone. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or like laughter is the only thing holding it all together, this episode is for you. Parenting is chaotic, motherhood is messy, and sometimes the only thing we can do is laugh through it. ✨ We invite our listeners to reach out and share your stories — the good news, the hilarious moments, and everything in between. We’ll read them at the top of the episode or play your recordings. This podcast is about real motherhood, honest parenting conversations, and building community — because none of us are doing this alone.

Not defects, Superpowers (0:00), gratitude for teachers (2:42), +/- of technology in schools (3:04),  the emotional moment when you realize your child’s anxiety is tied to your own baggage (4:58), conversations about culture, faith and spirituality — from Catholicism to Judaism to Buddhism to believing we’re all connected (7:52). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/G5Xzy4A0TDg Recorded on December 14, 2025. Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson Guest: Producer Jess Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions Follow Us:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged

What’s yours is yours, the creative toolbox, rejection as protection (0:00), casual manifestation (3:07), how Kelly and John worked as a team to co-create their and Sydney’s careers (10:26), Kelly gives advice for children who want to get into acting (16:27), Yes, and-ing life, being patient, and the journey as the success (21:32). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/2xWP3saH_zQ Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Guest: Kelly Park Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions FOLLOW KELLY: Instagram: @kelp1031 IMDb @ https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3815120/ Alliance of Women Directors @ https://www.allianceofwomendirectors.org/icon-spotlight-on-kelly-park/ Film Fatales @ https://www.filmfatales.org/directors/kellypark/   FOLLOW US:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   KELLY’S BIO: Director Kelly Park is from Philly. Her early years were spent attending Quaker schools, which helped shape a unique life perspective. After launching her career as a marketer and project manager in the technology and advertising industries, she decided to switch things up. Inspired by her actress mother to listen to her "funny bone", she took a leap of faith, and moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy. She began studying at Second City and The Groundlings, which led to commercials, short films, and sketch comedies. However, she soon realized being in front of the camera wasn't what fed her soul, teaching was. This eventually would lead to teaching children and young adults the fundamentals of acting and improv. Kelly quickly became one of the most sought-after acting coaches in television, working on numerous pilots and television shows for Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, Amazon, and Netflix. From there, Kelly transitioned to Director, debuting on the Emmy Award-nominated Netflix show, ALEXA & KATIE, ultimately directing multiple episodes. She has since directed numerous episodes such as GRACE & FRANKIE, THE NEIGHBORHOOD, STATION 19, and the upcoming FRASIER revival, as well as becoming a pilot Director for COUNTRY COMFORT (Netflix), BLACK DON'T CRACK (ABC), LOPEZ VS. LOPEZ (NBC), and most recently, NON-EVIL TWIN (NBC). She is also a writer/producer and is currently developing several projects with her producing partner husband, John, having recently sold a multi-cam comedy to Universal Television, as well as to CBS Studios.

Vitamin E (0:00), Kelly’s chats wellness, self-care and sulfur baths, see link below for Kelly’s recommendation (2:48), a chat about HRT and ultrasounds without radiation (7:31), love, journaling and Kelly and John’s 30 years together (10:55), cat cameos that you might want to watch at the YouTube link below (14:09), Cher’s bearded dragon turning yellow with joy and making our homes filled with joy (15:39), Kelly’s joy directing The Neighborhood is Season 8's "Welcome to Secrets and Santa” finale (19:57). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/WwxD-OxZvE8 Kelly’s sulfur bath tip: ManuFeiFei Organic Sulfur Bath Tablets https://a.co/d/6kNK3MP   Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Guest: Kelly Park Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions FOLLOW KELLY: Instagram: @kelp1031 IMDb @ https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3815120/ Alliance of Women Directors @ https://www.allianceofwomendirectors.org/icon-spotlight-on-kelly-park/ Film Fatales @ https://www.filmfatales.org/directors/kellypark/   FOLLOW US:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   KELLY’S BIO: Director Kelly Park is from Philly. Her early years were spent attending Quaker schools, which helped shape a unique life perspective. After launching her career as a marketer and project manager in the technology and advertising industries, she decided to switch things up. Inspired by her actress mother to listen to her "funny bone", she took a leap of faith, and moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in comedy. She began studying at Second City and The Groundlings, which led to commercials, short films, and sketch comedies. However, she soon realized being in front of the camera wasn't what fed her soul, teaching was. This eventually would lead to teaching children and young adults the fundamentals of acting and improv. Kelly quickly became one of the most sought-after acting coaches in television, working on numerous pilots and television shows for Nickelodeon, Disney Channel, Amazon, and Netflix. From there, Kelly transitioned to Director, debuting on the Emmy Award-nominated Netflix show, ALEXA & KATIE, ultimately directing multiple episodes. She has since directed numerous episodes such as GRACE & FRANKIE, THE NEIGHBORHOOD, STATION 19, and the upcoming FRASIER revival, as well as becoming a pilot Director for COUNTRY COMFORT (Netflix), BLACK DON'T CRACK (ABC), LOPEZ VS. LOPEZ (NBC), and most recently, NON-EVIL TWIN (NBC). She is also a writer/producer and is currently developing several projects with her producing partner husband, John, having recently sold a multi-cam comedy to Universal Television, as well as to CBS Studios.

Baseball tournamenting (0:00), Middle school, I’m Just a Guy with an IEP https://www.jordantoma.com visits Shelly’s kids’ school (3:03), trigger warning, TikTok quizzes that encourage children hurting themselves (5:50), cringing our kids and creating safe home spaces (12:06). Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged WATCH ON YOUTUBE at https://youtu.be/w56ra6XhaAc Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   FOLLOW US:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged  

Nikki makes the unattainable attainable (0:00), persevering, Nikki directs and finds excellence in Singapore and beyond (3:14), our physicality, butter popcorn and cheese (9:04), the mind blowing revelation about how much we care if our children get upset or are going through something (11:35), the harmony of our villages that help us be successful and care for our families (18:35). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/pk_mjdDthT8 Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Guest: Nikki Snelson Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   FOLLOW NIKKI: Instagram: @nikkisnelsonaugh Website: https://www.nikkisnelson.com/ IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1863951/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NikkiSnelson/ @ Musical Theatre Mayhem @ Indiana University Bloomington The Department of Theatre, Dance, and Contemporary Dance   FOLLOW US:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged EXTENDED SUMMARY In this deeply honest and energizing conversation, Broadway icon and director Nikki Snelson returns to the show for a wide-ranging discussion that blends artistry, motherhood and authenticity. Known for originating the iconic role of Brooke Wyndham in Legally Blonde on Broadway and standout turns in A Chorus Line, Sweet Charity, and Annie Get Your Gun, Nikki brings honesty and presence to this conversation as she does to the stage. We dive into her evolution from celebrated performer to dynamic director, exploring the creative muscles she’s strengthening and the projects she’s currently helming. Nikki opens up about the transformative experience of being on another continent with her toddler at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic — the fear, the togetherness, the unexpected pivots, and how that chapter added to the surprises that life as a mom brings.  Together, we talk about what it means to readjust health priorities as older moms, shifting into new rhythms, honoring changing bodies, and unlearning the pressure to “bounce back.” Nikki also shares the most surprising thing motherhood has taught her — and it’s equal parts relatable and profound. This episode is candid, funny, uplifting, and full of wisdom for anyone navigating creativity, career, or parenting in a world that never stops changing.   BIO Nikki Snelson has been working on Broadway and beyond as an actress, creator, director, choreographer  and educator for the last 30 years.  As an actress, Ms Snelson is most recognized for her performance of Brooke Wyndam in the original Broadway and MTV cast of LEGALLY BLONDE.  While at the Palace in LB, she was a part of the deliciously campy “Search for the New Elle Woods” on MTV.   Nikki originated the role of Winnie Tate in the Broadway revival of ANNIE GET YOUR GUN (starring Bernadette Peters).  She was also seen on Broadway in SWEET CHARITY (starring Christina Applegate). Nikki spent several years on National Tours as "Cassie"  in A Chorus Line and “Susan” in TICK, TICK, BOOM!   She also performed in the  Broadway National Tours of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, SHOW BOAT and HELLO, DOLLY with Carol Channing.  Snelson originated the role of The Mad Hatter in Frank Wildhorn's Wonderland, played Velma in CHICAGO at Maine State Theater and Sally Bowles in CABARET at The Napa Valley Opera House. On the big screen, Nikki was featured in the groundbreaking documentary EVERY LITTLE STEP as well in the major motion pictures REEFER MADNESS and ACROSS THE UNIVERSE. On the small screen, Nikki has been seen on Desperate Housewives and All My Children. She received her training in Musical Theatre from Boston Conservatory after growing up in St Louis and making her professional debut at the St Louis Muny. Most recently, Nikki directed and choreographed legally blonde at the Kansas City starlight.   Ms Snelson has directed, choreographed, and taught ALL over the world including: Argentina, Chile, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Ireland, Scotland, Paris, London and many more. She is an artist in residence at Singapore’s famed theater school,Lasalle College of the Arts. Her directing credits include: MAMMA MIA, HOLIDAY INN, ALL SHOOK UP, WORLD GOES ROUND, GYPSY, WEDDING SINGER, PAJAMA GAME, CABARET, CHICAGO, JOSEPH and A CHORUS LINE.  Nikki has choreographed for Elton John's Life Ball in Vienna, The Young and the Restless, The Miss America Pageant and the “The Funny Dance Show” on E!   Ms Snelson is the voice and CGI likeness of “Annie” in RockStar Games’ MIDNIGHT CLUB-LOS ANGELES.    in the spring, Nikki will work on beauty and the beast at vanguard university and the prom at university of california-irvine.  Nikki resides in Orange County, California with her husband and 5 year old son.    Nikki is the CEO of Musical Theatre Mayhem, a triple threat workshop experience featuring Broadway’s biggest stars!

Nikki’s “The Price Is Right” story (0:00), Nikki’s advice for performer moms (4:26), how we have to remember don’t count your friend’s sprinkles and have your ice cream melt (9:56), chatting “The Summer I Turned Pretty” (12:11), Nikki’s dream roles (16:31).   WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/284qg5ojxUo Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Guest: Nikki Snelson Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   FOLLOW NIKKI: Instagram: @nikkisnelsonaugh Website: https://www.nikkisnelson.com/ IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1863951/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NikkiSnelson/ @ Musical Theatre Mayhem @ Indiana University Bloomington The Department of Theatre, Dance, and Contemporary Dance   FOLLOW US:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged BIO Nikki Snelson has been working on Broadway and beyond as an actress, creator, director, choreographer  and educator for the last 30 years.  As an actress, Ms Snelson is most recognized for her performance of Brooke Wyndam in the original Broadway and MTV cast of LEGALLY BLONDE.  While at the Palace in LB, she was a part of the deliciously campy “Search for the New Elle Woods” on MTV.   Nikki originated the role of Winnie Tate in the Broadway revival of ANNIE GET YOUR GUN (starring Bernadette Peters).  She was also seen on Broadway in SWEET CHARITY (starring Christina Applegate). Nikki spent several years on National Tours as "Cassie"  in A Chorus Line and “Susan” in TICK, TICK, BOOM!   She also performed in the  Broadway National Tours of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, SHOW BOAT and HELLO, DOLLY with Carol Channing.  Snelson originated the role of The Mad Hatter in Frank Wildhorn's Wonderland, played Velma in CHICAGO at Maine State Theater and Sally Bowles in CABARET at The Napa Valley Opera House. On the big screen, Nikki was featured in the groundbreaking documentary EVERY LITTLE STEP as well in the major motion pictures REEFER MADNESS and ACROSS THE UNIVERSE. On the small screen, Nikki has been seen on Desperate Housewives and All My Children. She received her training in Musical Theatre from Boston Conservatory after growing up in St Louis and making her professional debut at the St Louis Muny. Most recently, Nikki directed and choreographed legally blonde at the Kansas City starlight.   Ms Snelson has directed, choreographed, and taught ALL over the world including: Argentina, Chile, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Ireland, Scotland, Paris, London and many more. She is an artist in residence at Singapore’s famed theater school,Lasalle College of the Arts. Her directing credits include: MAMMA MIA, HOLIDAY INN, ALL SHOOK UP, WORLD GOES ROUND, GYPSY, WEDDING SINGER, PAJAMA GAME, CABARET, CHICAGO, JOSEPH and A CHORUS LINE.  Nikki has choreographed for Elton John's Life Ball in Vienna, The Young and the Restless, The Miss America Pageant and the “The Funny Dance Show” on E!   Ms Snelson is the voice and CGI likeness of “Annie” in RockStar Games’ MIDNIGHT CLUB-LOS ANGELES.    in the spring, Nikki will work on beauty and the beast at vanguard university and the prom at university of california-irvine.  Nikki resides in Orange County, California with her husband and 5 year old son. Nikki is the CEO of Musical Theatre Mayhem, a triple threat workshop experience featuring Broadway’s biggest stars!

Cher goes to Costco (0:00), the delight and challenges of authenticity, ADHD and being okay in vulnerability (1:19), we are all more alike than anyone wants to agree (10:35), the only thing we can’t ever get back is time (14:42). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/v7mJhkKxKJY Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Guest: Ellyn Marsh Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions   FOLLOW ELLYN: Instagram: @ellynmarsh “Shut the F*** Up Nick Lachey” a Love Is Blind Podcast with Ellyn Marsh and Daisy Eagan https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-the-f-up-nick-lachey/id1752366968 “Think Not!” Podcast with Ellyn & Rabia: ithinknotpod.com & https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rabia-and-ellyn-solve-the-case/id1646694616   FOLLOW US:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Extended Summary:  Broadway performer, comedian, social‑media star and single mom Ellyn Marsh (@ellynmarsh on Instagram) brings charisma and real‑life grit to everything she does. She co‑hosts the podcasts I Think Not! — “a truly campy take on true‑crime TV” — and Rabia & Ellyn Solve the Case with legal expert Rabia Chaudry, where they break down major crime stories with wit and insight. (ithinknotpod.com) In this unfiltered, laugh‑out‑loud, and deeply heartfelt episode of Creative Mamas Unplugged, Ellyn shares a raw, funny and refreshingly honest conversation about motherhood, reinvention, and embracing the chaos of it all. She opens up about raising her daughter, Lola — now a high school junior — while rediscovering her identity as a woman and artist after divorce. With her signature humour and candour, she reflects on the revelation that no parent really knows what they’re doing (“we’re all just guessing”), and how that truth has deepened her connection with her daughter. Ellyn’s vulnerability is both hilarious and profoundly human. A must‑listen for anyone trying to balance creativity, motherhood, and self‑discovery — with humour, heart, and maybe a little pink.

“These cubs are obsessed… with cougars” (0:00), Ellyn shares her experiences from Broadway to time with her daughter (1:23), Leap for your dreams, The Cheesecake Factory, and Ellen’s Stardust Diner (6:11), Ellyn’s Love is Blind Podcast “Shut the F*** Up Nick Lachey” and rewatching “Sex and the City” and “Orange is the New Black”, and the wonderfulness of Jessica Simpson (9:18), The Osbornes and The Osmunds (12:36), the genius of Korean Skincare (16:30), benefit of HRT, and teaching our kids: don’t go to the second location (17:44). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/L5LYQCnwhj4 Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Guest: Ellyn Marsh Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions FOLLOW ELLYN: Instagram: @ellynmarsh “Shut the F*** Up Nick Lachey” a Love Is Blind Podcast with Ellyn Marsh and Daisy Eagan https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-the-f-up-nick-lachey/id1752366968 “Think Not!” Podcast with Ellyn & Rabia: ithinknotpod.com & https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rabia-and-ellyn-solve-the-case/id1646694616 FOLLOW US:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Extended Summary:  Broadway performer, comedian, social‑media star and single mom Ellyn Marsh (@ellynmarsh on Instagram) brings charisma and real‑life grit to everything she does. She co‑hosts the podcasts I Think Not! — “a truly campy take on true‑crime TV” — and Rabia & Ellyn Solve the Case with legal expert Rabia Chaudry, where they break down major crime stories with wit and insight. (ithinknotpod.com) and “Shut the F*** Up Nick Lachey” a Love Is Blind Podcast with Ellyn Marsh and Daisy Eagan.  Ellyn opens up about everything from Broadway to the pandemic, podcasts, Korean skincare, HRT, teaching our kids Don’t go to the second location and of course the amazingness of the Cheesecake Factory.  Ellyn’s Part 2 is another celebration of imperfection, authenticity, and the fierce love that holds us together. A must‑listen for anyone trying to balance creativity, motherhood, and self‑discovery — with humour, heart, and maybe a little pink.

"I'm a cowboy" Explicit (0:00), Ellyn on creating her girls’ pad (2:33), going with the flow when we talk to our kids about what they’re learning (4:28), thriving in the moment, ADHD and embracing our uniqueness (12:33). WATCH ON YOUTUBE @ https://youtu.be/jAg8TpsgHZk Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Guest: Ellyn Marsh Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions FOLLOW ELLYN: Instagram: @ellynmarsh “Shut the F*** Up Nick Lachey” a Love Is Blind Podcast with Ellyn Marsh and Daisy Eagan https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shut-the-f-up-nick-lachey/id1752366968 “Think Not!” Podcast with Ellyn & Rabia: ithinknotpod.com & https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rabia-and-ellyn-solve-the-case/id1646694616   FOLLOW US:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Extended Summary:  Broadway performer, comedian, social‑media star and single mom Ellyn Marsh (@ellynmarsh on Instagram) brings charisma and real‑life grit to everything she does. She co‑hosts the podcasts I Think Not! — “a truly campy take on true‑crime TV” — and Rabia & Ellyn Solve the Case with legal expert Rabia Chaudry, where they break down major crime stories with wit and insight. (ithinknotpod.com) In this unfiltered, laugh‑out‑loud, and deeply heartfelt episode of Creative Mamas Unplugged, Ellyn shares a raw, funny and refreshingly honest conversation about motherhood, reinvention, and embracing the chaos of it all. She opens up about raising her daughter, Lola — now a high school junior — while rediscovering her identity as a woman and artist after divorce. With her signature humour and candour, she reflects on the revelation that no parent really knows what they’re doing (“we’re all just guessing”), and how that truth has deepened her connection with her daughter. From telling Lola, “This is my first time being a mom,” to admitting, “I’m a fucking mess with a heart of gold,” Ellyn’s vulnerability is both hilarious and profoundly human. She also explores the modern challenges of raising kids in the age of TikTok — how today’s teens are far more aware, exposed, and mature than their parents were, for better or worse. This episode is a celebration of imperfection, authenticity, and the fierce love that holds it all together. A must‑listen for anyone trying to balance creativity, motherhood, and self‑discovery — with humour, heart, and maybe a little pink.

Pace University and the heart of NYC (0:00), Having older children and the shift that happens at school (2:58), and the shift that happens in our lives where we miss having our children living at home (6:59), the health benefits of aerial yoga and the hammocks (13:58). Support Us via Patreon @CreativeMamasUnplugged Hosts: Cherice Barton and Shelly Hutchinson   Guest: Carmen Curtis Producer: Jessica O’Keefe, Breatheasy Productions FOLLOW CARMEN: Instagram: @carmencurtis1 *online aerial yoga classes and trainings Carmen’s Linktree   www.airealyoga.com @airealyoga   www.theaerialstudio.net @theaerialstudio   FOLLOW US:  Instagram @creativemamasunplugged Facebook @creativemamasunplugged Apple Podcasts  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Spotify  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Amazon Music  @CreativeMamasUnplugged   YouTube  @CreativeMamasUnplugged iHeart Radio  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Podbean  @CreativeMamasUnplugged Extended Summary:    In this deeply moving conclusion to our three-part conversation with Carmen Curtis — world-renowned aerialist, founder of AIReal Yoga™, and devoted mother — we explore the emotional journey of letting go as our children leave home. Carmen opens up about the realities of empty nest syndrome, describing it as “like losing a limb,” and shares how her practice became a lifeline through that transition. Together, we talk about grief, identity, and the rediscovery of self that follows motherhood’s most tender shift. Through AIReal Yoga™, Carmen helps others find grounding, healing, and a sense of being held again — emotionally, physically, and spiritually. This conversation is for every mother learning to loosen her grip, trust the next chapter, and remember that love never leaves — it simply evolves. 💫