Mom To MORE

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Heidi Johnson, nonprofit founder, author, host of the Charity Matters podcast and a mom dedicated to making a difference in the world through her charitable work.

Join Sharon and Heidi as they discuss how a personal tragedy motivated Heidi to dedicate her life to serving others, the importance of introducing children to philanthropy, modeling charitable behavior and the physical and emotional benefits of helping others. Tune in to be inspired by Heidi's journey of turning her pain into her passion and purpose, and discover how embracing service and philanthropy can create a positive impact on your family and community.

[00:00] Introduction [00:00:45] Heidi Johnson’s background and motherhood journey [02:00] Balancing motherhood and philanthropy and introducing children to charitable causes [07:29] The personal tragedy that changed Heidi’s life and led to a deeper commitment to philanthropy [13:31] The origin of the Charity Matters podcast [21:12] Resource for moms considering nonprofit involvement [29:44] Where to find Heidi online

Meet My Guest Heidi Johnson: Heidi’s new book, Change for Good: https://go.sylikes.com/eNkv5bF8ebUU Website: charity-matters.com Instagram/Facebook: @charitymatters X: @Charity_Matters LinkedIn: Heidi McNiff Johnson Catchafire.org:  https://www.catchafire.org/

Catchafire.org is an amazing resource for people wanting to get into the workforce from volunteer work. As moms, we excel at volunteer work!

On Catchafire, your skills support nonprofits on the frontlines solving critical community issues. Build your resume and portfolio while directly supporting the causes you care about.  With over 150 project types, customize your support based on your skills and availability while gaining connections, resume building, and targeted volunteer experience.

Looking for More? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #25 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Kay Pascal, entrepreneur, early childhood educator and author of Insert Giggle Giggle. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this “Expert Episode” of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Erica Humbert, a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner and owner of Optimized Life Health, a medical practice that specializes in 1 on 1 care and finding the root cause of common problems in all areas of women’s health and wellness. 

Erica is the kind of women’s advocate we need.  

She understands WHY we’re exhausted, WHY we have trouble losing weight, WHY we aren’t sleeping well, WHY our hormones are out of whack, and what we can do to get our act together NOW for optimized health going forward. 

Erica treats hormone imbalances to achieve weight loss, optimize vitamin levels, and find mental and physical wellbeing.

Erica’s transition from traditional medicine to a more personalized, holistic practice highlights her dedication to empowering women to take control of their health. Erica’s focus on addressing hormone imbalances, strength training, and proactive self-care reflects her belief in the importance of tailored solutions for each individual. Her journey inspires others to advocate for themselves in healthcare, pursue their passions, and embrace a balanced, fulfilling life at any stage.

Erica has 21 years of healthcare experience, including 11 years as a family practice nurse practitioner, 10 years of nursing, and served our country for 5 years as a Navy Nurse.  She received her training at the University of Florida.

She is also a motivational speaker for organizations, conferences, and podcasts (now adding Mom To MORE™️!) on topics such as the importance of hormone and vitamin assessment and treatment, the mind-body connection and living a happy, healthy lifestyle.

Join Sharon and Erica as they discuss hormonal changes, advocating for yourself in healthcare, and the importance of strength training while you age.

[00:00] Introduction [02:26] Erica Humbert’s background and expertise in women's health and wellness [03:33] Transitioning to a new model of care [05:09] Common health issues for women at different stages of life [06:43] Challenging the aging narrative [07:57] Understanding hormone replacement therapy [10:10] Research on hormone therapy and its effects on long-term health [12:09] The role of strength training in support of women’s health and longevity [15:32] Finding joy and time for yourself and strategies to prioritize self-care [19:25] Tips for finding the right doctor [22:14] Recognizing perimenopause symptoms [29:42] Find Erica Humbert and her work online

NOTE: This episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.  Please speak with  your own health practitioner to determine what the correct and appropriate protocols are for you. 

Learn more about Erica Humbert:

website: optimizedlifehealth.com Facebook: @optimizedlifehealth Instagram: @optimizedlifeaprn

Looking for More? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #24 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Heidi Johnson, nonprofit founder, author and host of the Charity Matters podcast. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Melissa Dean, homeschooling mom, midwife and founder of  Casa Natal Birth and Wellness Center, in Los Gatos, CA.

As a functional and integrative medicine practitioner, Melissa combines her expertise in women's health with her midwife practice. She provides care with an emphasis on holistic health modalities to bring wellness to women in every stage of their health journey,  including childbirth, transition to motherhood and beyond.

Melissa’s expertise has been featured in leading publications such as The Bump, Today’s Parent, and The CheckUp. She has been a featured guest on leading podcasts such as Dear Doula, The Hypnobirthing Podcast, and The Go Deeper Podcast by Floka. And now she can add Mom To MORE! 

Melissa serves as an inspiration to other moms through her journey of personal and professional reinvention. As a stay-at-home mom who chose to homeschool her 4 children, Melissa exemplifies dedication to family while also showing that motherhood can be a springboard for personal growth. Her decision to incorporate a part-time career as a doula into her family life, and later become a certified midwife, is a powerful example of how balancing family life and a personal calling is not only possible but incredibly rewarding, as it benefits women in her local community and beyond..

Melissa’s journey proves that it’s never too late to follow a passion, and that motherhood can be an incredible foundation for achieving professional success and making a lasting and meaningful impact on others.

[00:00] Introduction [01:30] About Melissa Dean and her background [02:59] Melissa's Family and Homeschooling Journey [04:32] Homeschooling approach and benefits [08:12] Practical education and teaching life skills [10:52] Transition from homeschool to high school and college [11:53] Skills learned from being a stay-at-home-homeschooling mom [16:27] Melissa's path to becoming a midwife [19:26] Founding Casa Natal Birth and Wellness Center [21:00] Comprehensive care provided at Casa Natal [23:37] The importance of supporting mothers postpartum [24:43] Involvement of Melissa’s family in Casa Natal [26:23] Melissa's MORE [28:16] Where to Find Melissa Online

Learn more about Melissa:

Website: https://casa-natal.com/ Instagram: @casanatalbirthcenter

Looking for MORE? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #23 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by women’s health expert Erica Libby Humbert - Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Amanda Parton who took a career pause to "mother her brood", entered the world of competitive ballroom dance and followed a lifelong passion of home design to start her own business.

Amanda Parton grew up in a mining town in West Yorkshire, England.

Her career trajectory took her to London at Ogilvy & Mather Advertising, to Singapore to be Creative Director of Ogilvy 1 and finally to the United States where she took a career pause to “mother her brood”.

As her kids got older, Amanda, like so many SAHM’s who are looking to redefine their next chapter in life, started her introspection about her next steps. And step she did…or rather brilliantly danced into the world of competitive Standard Ballroom and as co-owner of The Dance Collective in Westport CT.

More recently, following a lifelong passion of home design, she started Homebird Interiors.

Join Sharon and Amanda as they discuss transitioning from a successful career to motherhood, reinventing yourself through your passions, and leveraging your many mom skills to launch new ventures.

Amanda Parton is a shining example of reinvention and her story is a testament to the power of embracing new passions and the courage it takes to step away from a traditional career path to explore the unknown. Amanda's transition into the dance world and later into interior design reflects her belief in personal growth and the importance of pursuing what truly fulfills you.

Amanda’s journey underscores the importance of maintaining a sense of self, even while nurturing others. She advocates for personal challenges as a means of growth, emphasizing that pushing beyond comfort zones can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities. Her story inspires others to embrace change, seek new challenges, and recognize that it's never too late to pursue new dreams.

[00:00] Introduction [02:50] Importance of a career pause for Amanda [05:32] Decision to transition to a stay-at-home mom  [08:02] Moving to Singapore and social life as a new parent [09:01] Transition to the United States and making friends as a mom [11:13] Involvement in children's school life and becoming a personal trainer [13:14] Discovering Latin dance and facing new challenges [15:53] Balancing dance with family life [19:05] Embracing new challenges and personal growth [22:55] Starting Homebird Interiors and returning to school in midlife [25:10] Launching a business and overcoming fear [31:36] Amanda's future plans [34:08] Where to find Amanda online

Learn more about Amanda:

Website: https://www.homebirdinteriors.com/ Instagram: @homebirdinteriors1 and @partonia

Looking for MORE? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #22 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Melissa Dean, homeschooling mom, midwife and founder of Casa Natal Birth and Wellness Center in Los Gatos, CA. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Melissa Llarena:  Author, imagination coach and podcast host.

Melissa, a multi-hyphenated mom to 3 high energy boys, is also a contributor to Forbes Women articles that have garnered over 4 million views. She is the host of the Mom Founder Imagination Hub podcast (formerly Unimaginable Wellness podcast) for entrepreneurs, founders, and creators who are also moms. 

Melissa is a beacon of inspiration for moms who want to integrate creativity and resilience into their lives. As an imagination coach, she blends managing a business and raising her boys with innovative problem-solving and adaptability. Her journey highlights the power of creativity in overcoming challenges and balancing chaotic schedules, offering a motivating example for other moms striving to handle their multifaceted roles with confidence.

Her emphasis on creativity, resilience and a gradual, long-term progress on a mom’s personal timeline, provides valuable guidance for moms looking to enhance their lives and achieve fulfillment. Melissa’s story is a compelling reminder that creativity and determination can transform challenges into opportunities, inspiring moms to embrace their own journeys with courage.

Melissa holds a psychology degree from NYU, an MBA from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College, and a Transformational Coaching Academy certificate. She is training to become a meditation practitioner.

Join Sharon and Melissa as they discuss balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, facing fears to unlock creativity, and leveraging imposter syndrome as an asset for success.

[00:00] Introduction [02:16] About Melissa Llarena and her background [04:19] Managing a busy schedule and motherhood [07:24] What is an Imagination Coach? [10:14] Validating intuition over data [13:11] Facing fears and unlocking your imagination [17:02] The role of fear in creativity [21:04] Giving yourself permission to be weird [25:04] Leveraging imposter syndrome as an asset [29:57] Melissa’s MORE [31:00] Where to find Melissa online

Learn more about Melissa:

Website: https://www.melissallarena.com/ Instagram: @melissallarena 

Say HI👋 to Melissa on IG and tell her what you liked about the episode.  She will respond back!

Thanks to our Sponsor ALLY Shoes! 

Looking for MORE? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #20 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Amanda Parton who took a career pause to "mother her brood", entered the world of competitive ballroom dance and followed a lifelong passion of home design to start her own business. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Samantha Danielle, a Nashville native and mother of three teens, who advocates for women's empowerment and self-care through her platform samanthadanielle.com and on social media. As a blogger, content creator, and keynote speaker, she shares personal stories and practical tips, guiding women through motherhood and self discovery while emphasizing the importance of self-care, joy, and purpose.

Join Sharon and Samantha as they discuss overcoming trauma, starting over, why moms need to put themselves on their own to-do list, superpowers, and embracing change.

Drawing from her own experiences, including overcoming challenges like divorce and single parenthood, Samantha inspires women to embrace their worth and navigate life's complexities with resilience and self-preservation.

Her story isn’t perfect – and let’s be honest – no one’s is – which is why Samantha’s story resonates so strongly. She has pushed through adversity and hard seasons and encourages and inspires other moms to do the same.

[00:00] Introduction [00:40] About Samantha Danielle and her background [02:19] Importance of Being Present with Children [04:09] Advocacy for Women's Empowerment and Self-Care [06:02] Personal Trauma and Healing [10:01] Lessons from Divorce and Therapy [13:13] Realization of Personal Strengths [14:39] Identifying and Leveraging Superpowers [16:21] Importance of Online Safety for Kids [23:37] Reflection on Personal Growth and Gratitude [25:57] Future Plans and Projects

Learn more about Samantha Danielle:

Instagram: @heysamanthadanielle

Website: https://samanthadanielle.com/

Looking for MORE? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #20 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Melissa Llarena, author, imagination coach and podcast host. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Amy Schmidt - Best-selling author, speaker, podcast host and “Beyond 50” visionary.

Amy Schmidt is an award winning television and podcast host, best-selling author, TEDx Speaker, motivational speaker, confidence, reinvention & parenting media expert, and founder of the brands, Fearlessly Facing Fifty™ and Your Confidence Connector.

She was nominated to the Inaugural Forbes 50 over 50 - Women shattering age and gender norms, 2021 list. In May, 2021 she also became the CEO and Founder of Meant For More. Transformative events for women, curating thought leaders around top of mind topics for women at midlife and beyond.

Join Sharon and Amy as they discuss the significance of stepping outside one's comfort zone, courageously embracing new challenges, and earnestly learning from failures along the journey of personal growth and empowerment. Amy Schmidt is a true inspiration for those seeking to redefine their lives and pursue new passions. Transitioning from a dedicated stay-at-home mom to an award-winning television and podcast host, bestselling author, and motivational speaker, Amy exemplifies fearless reinvention. Her journey underscores the transformative power of embracing creativity and leveraging personal experiences to forge a fulfilling path forward, inspiring others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery.

Amy's resilience, cultivated through her years as a stay-at-home mom, shines through her emphasis on patience, spontaneity, and flexibility. Her advocacy for courageous conversations and the importance of a supportive network reflects her commitment to empowering women. Amy's insights on embracing failure as a catalyst for growth, paired with practical advice on self-affirmation and overcoming perfectionism, offer invaluable guidance for those striving for contentment and fulfillment in the present moment. [01:59] Amy’s background and achievements  [04:05] Importance of being a stay-at-home mom [06:17] Parenting superpowers and the 30-minute decompression rule [08:50] Inspiration behind the name "Cannonball" [11:05] Fearlessly embracing new challenges [14:42] Overcoming perfectionism and procrastination [16:50] Being present, appreciating the moment and turning off the noise [23:27] Accepting compliments and creating greatness statements [28:41] Advice to your 30-year-old self and Amy’s “More” [34:47] Where to find Amy and her book online Learn more about Amy Schmidt:

Websites: Fearlesslyfacingfifty.com and Theamyschmidt.com Amy's book "Cannonball!: Fearlessly Facing Midlife and Beyond": https://www.amazon.com/Cannonball-Fearlessly-Facing-Midlife-Beyond/dp/057869901X

Facebook: @theamyschmidt (Your Confidence Connector) and @fearlesslyfacingfifty

Instagram: @theamy.schmidt 

Have a book club? Connect with Amy at: amy@fearlesslyfacingfifty.com

Looking for MORE? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #19 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Samantha Danielle, content creator, keynote speaker and advocate for women's empowerment and self-care. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this ‘flipped’ episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is interviewed by former podcast guest and best-selling author, Lee Woodruff (catch Lee’s episode here: https://www.momtomore.com/podcast/episode-8-lee-woodruff)

Sharon Macey is a mom, wife, content creator, blogger, speaker and host of the Mom to MORE podcast. She created the Mom To MORE™ community for women rediscovering themselves beyond motherhood, sharing the multi-faceted, diverse and often untold stories of moms and their personal transformations..

Sharon enjoyed a successful career as an award-winning copywriter and marketer before proudly embracing the role of stay-at-home-mom. During the years of raising her 3 kids, she realized that while doing all of the expected mom things, she had developed skills that served as the foundation for her own personal reinvention.  Sharon knows that moms of any age can use their talents, wisdom and unique gifts to create their empowering and fulfilling next chapters in life, their “MORE”.  She proudly uses her many mom-skills daily.

Sharon holds a BA in advertising from the University of Texas at Austin and a Digital Marketing Strategies certification from the Kellogg School of Management. She lives her empty-nest life with her husband and comedic doodle, Comet.

Join Sharon and Lee as they discuss practical advice on maintaining mental and physical well-being as mothers, career transitions and growth, and lessons learned from past podcast guests. Through her podcast, Sharon highlights stories of women who have reinvented themselves, whether by returning to previous careers, pursuing new entrepreneurial ventures, or exploring personal passions, which often become a business.  Sharon's guests share their challenges, successes, and insights, offering listeners motivation and practical advice on how to approach their own post-parenting chapters. Sharon's own story is emblematic of resilience, vision, and taking chances,, making her an inspiration to moms looking to redefine themselves and pursue their dreams beyond motherhood. Her podcast not only celebrates the achievements of women but also serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement for those navigating similar paths of personal and professional growth.

[00:00] Introduction [03:06] Sharon’s background and her journey. [05:29] The genesis of Mom to MORE™ and its purpose. [08:23] Lessons learned from past podcast guests and their success stories [11:19] Sharon’s personal journey into motherhood. [13:31] Challenges faced by working moms. [15:22] The inspiration behind starting the Mom to MORE™ podcast.[18:01] The uniqueness of Mom to MORE™ in the podcast landscape.[19:53] Aging and reinvention for women. [21:40] CelebratingMom to MORE™’s first sponsor,  ALLY Shoes. [23:22] Sharon shares the best advice she gave her children and their reflections. [26:58] Sharon shares her “MORE” [30:45] Where to find Sharon online

Learn more about guest host, Lee Woodruff:Lee’s website: https://leewoodruff.com/Instagram: @leewoodruff

Looking for MORE? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #18 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Amy Schmidt - Best-selling author, speaker, podcast host and “Beyond 50” visionary.. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Zibby Owens, award-winning podcaster, best-selling author, bookstore owner, publisher and CEO who has been called the “Literary Fairy Godmother” of the book world. Her remarkable journey that started as a stay-at-home-mom is beyond inspiring.

Zibby, like most moms, wears many hats.  She is the award-winning podcast host of Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books; CEO of Zibby Media, (aka: The Zibby-Verse) which includes the publishing house Zibby Books, a book club, retreats, classes & events; and is the proud owner of Zibby’s Bookshop, an independent bookstore in Santa Monica. She is a frequent contributor to Good Morning America, Katie Couric Media and other outlets.

She is, quite simply, the IT GIRL in publishing. But most of all, she is a mom.

Join Sharon and Zibby as they discuss not being fearful of trying new things, taking small steps in a direction that excites you and not giving up on the journey to achieving your goals. Zibby’s story showcases the power of perseverance, determination, and resilience in the face of rejection and setbacks. Her ability to reinvent herself and pursue her passion for writing despite initial failures is a testament to the idea that it's never too late to chase your dreams. Zibby’s journey serves as a reminder to other moms that with hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take risks, they can also create their own path to success and fulfillment. Her story is a beacon of hope and motivation for moms who are looking to embark on their own journey of reinvention and self-discovery. And it’s a reminder to moms to take time for themselves and stay connected to their own interests and passions.

[00:00] Introduction [02:31] Zibby’s Background [06:52] Starting a Podcast and Overcoming Fear [12:00] Skills Developed as a Stay-at-Home Mom [15:16] Handling rejection and perseverance [19:44] Never giving up and the impact on Zibby's children [22:08] Zibby's New Book: Blank [25:09] Advice for Moms Starting Their Next Chapter [27:36] Where to Find Zibby Online Learn more about Zibby Owens:

Website for everything in the” Zibby-Verse”: https://zibbymedia.com/

Website for Zibby’s writing: https://www.zibbyowens.com/ Instagram: @zibbyowens

Sign up for the Zibby-verse newsletters!

Looking for MORE? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn.

Keep an eye out for episode #17 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast when Sharon will be interviewed by Lee Woodruff to celebrate the one year anniversary of the podcast🎙️ Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Maryfran Klein, former stay-at-home-mom and Founder of MF Kookies™.

Maryfran hung up her high heels after a 20+ year career with Elite Models to raise her 3 children.

As in any moms life, unexpected challenges always present themselves and Maryfran was no different, with 2 of her children requiring medical interventions.   She was grateful to be able to be with her kids during these challenging times.

She started baking her own chocolate chip cookies as a sweet treat for her family, and overtime everyone became convinced that she had perfected the best cookie out there.

When their youngest daughter started her sophomore year in college in 2019, Maryfran decided to take that entrepreneurial leap to realize her dream of a cookie business and MF Kookies™ was born. (Needless to say, she was blessed with some kick-a** initials!) She found a niche for her cookies that didn’t exist before and baked her way into freezer sections in the Chicago area and also created a successful direct-to-consumer business.  Maryfran’s message to moms: Creating a business in your 50’s is hard work and absolutely possible.

Join Sharon and Maryfran as they discuss advocating for children's health, the empowerment of mothers, the importance of having a vision, and believing in oneself.

Despite facing the daunting challenge of her child's medical condition and her own initial self-doubt, Maryfran harnessed the skills honed through parenting—such as multitasking and time management—to build a successful cookie empire.

Her experience serves as an empowering example to other mothers and aspiring entrepreneurs that it is possible to reinvent oneself and achieve sweet success, proving that with vision, passion, and the willingness to learn and grow, dreams can be transformed into reality, no matter the stage of life.

[00:00] Introduction [02:14] Maryfran’s background [06:50] Insights on raising healthy, successful children while balancing personal aspirations [08:31] Exploration of the journey from motherhood to entrepreneurship, the rediscovery of passions, and the importance of having a vision. [11:20] The transferable skills from parenting to business [13:20] Lessons in chemistry role of experimentation in product development [17:50] Starting a business with passion and determination [20:40] The surprise success of MF Kookies™ at the very first trade show despite an initial setback [20:56] The importance of family support in pursuing new ventures [25:09] Reflections on growth through entrepreneurship and aspirations [28:25] The vision for the future of MF Kookies™ and Maryfran's “MORE” [32:08] Where to find MaryFran online

Learn more about MaryFran and MF Kookies:

MFKookies.com (order direct and shipped fresh)

Instagram: @mfkookies

Facebook: @mfkookies

MF Kookies™ design firm, Design Womb: https://designwomb.com/

Instagram: @designwomb

Looking for MORE? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #16 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Zibby Owens: Mom, podcaster, best-selling author, and publisher who has been called the “Literary Fairy Godmother” of the book world. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Dr. Hilary Berger, former SAHM and Founder of Work Like a Mother®.

Dr. Hilary S. Berger is deeply passionate about helping women thrive, offering a unique career counseling perspective tailored to the realities of a mother’s life. 

She is the founder of Work Like A Mother® and the creator of an award-winning career counseling method integrating careers, motherhood and mental health. She is a practicing psychotherapist, a holistic career therapist and a licensed professional counselor.

For over 25 years she has passionately counseled mothers to heal from their loss of self, rebuild their professional purpose, relevance, career competencies, and most importantly, their confidence throughout their parenting years and after children have left the nest.  She has successfully served over 3000 women and is unapologetically dedicated to shaping a  new narrative for young women to adopt a professional and lifestyle roadmap for their future where motherhood is acknowledged as a legitimate aspect of their career journey.

Hilary is a mother to four children who understands firsthand the daily challenge to parent as your heart and soul dictate, while also striving as a SAHM to access the courage and confidence needed to fulfill your own goals and dreams outside of parenting.

Join Sharon and Dr. Hilary Berger as they discuss the “problem with no name,” work-life balance strategies and reclaiming professional identities as mothers. Dr. Hilary's message underscores the need for women and girls to have flexible career options that allow them to maintain their professional relevance while navigating the responsibilities of motherhood. By promoting the idea of integrating motherhood into the career journey and advocating for choices that support both roles, Dr. Hilary advocates for a paradigm shift that empowers women to lead fulfilling lives as mothers and professionals simultaneously.

[00:00] Introduction [02:25] Dr. Hilary’s background and her life as a stay-at-home mom [03:44] The “problem with no name” [06:11] The creation of Work Like a Mother® [10:22] A new career development method [15:09] Balancing mom and professional identity. [19:31] Trying and failing is OK [23:47] Work-life balance strategies. [25:44] Rebuilding an authentic life after motherhood [28:27] Shifting Career Perspectives and embracing multiple identities as moms [32:58] Where to find Dr. Hilary Berger online

Learn more about Dr. Hilary Berger:

https://www.worklikeamother.com/

On Instagram + Facebook @worklikeamother

On LinkedIn: @Hilary Berger

Find Dr. Hilary’s book at Barnes & Noble here: https://go.sylikes.com/eMCV805VIrQE and on Amazon.

Looking for MORE? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #15 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Maryfran Klein, Former SAHM and Founder of MF Kookies 🍪 Coming soon - really delish and you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this “Expert Episode” of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by Dr. Jennifer Guttman, Clinical Psychologist and author of Beyond Happiness: The 6 Secrets of Lifetime Satisfaction.

Dr. Guttman tells us that our society tends to put happiness on a pedestal-it’s everyone’s ultimate goal and is even enshrined in our Declaration of Independence.  But what happens if happiness is the wrong goal? Happiness is an emotion...not a state of being. It is not enough to soldier us through life’s challenging moments like losing a job, or when a child is ill.  Meanwhile, 40% of people worldwide say they are not happy. The reason? Happiness is simply not sustainable. 

Dr. Jennifer Guttman received her doctorate in clinical psychology from Long Island University. She is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy with specializations in trauma treatment and family systems. Over the past five years Dr. Guttman launched a motivational brand platform called Sustainable Life Satisfaction®. She produced a YouTube series, course and a workbook based on this method. This year she released, Beyond Happiness: The 6 Secrets of Life Satisfaction published as a hardcover and paperback by Post Hill Press.

Dr. Guttman is a regular contributor to Psychology Today, Thrive Global, MindBodyGreen, and has written articles for numerous media outlets and publications. She has been a guest on several network television programs across the country including, KTLA, ABC News, NBC Bloom, and CBS Georgia, among many others. In addition, she has been featured on dozens of podcasts.

Over the past 30 years, Dr. Guttman has sustained a robust practice with offices in NYC, Connecticut, and virtually as a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist nurturing exciting personal interactions with thousands of clients from diverse walks of life.

Join Sharon and Dr. Guttman as they discuss the concept of transformation, six secrets to achieving satisfaction, and the importance of modeling self-care.

Dr. Guttman challenges conventional notions of happiness, advocating instead for sustainable life satisfaction. She unveils six secrets to achieving this satisfaction, urging listeners to abandon assumptions, curb people-pleasing tendencies, confront fears, make decisive choices, complete tasks, and actively reinforce self-worth.

Offering practical guidance, Dr. Gutman empowers mothers to embark on their journey towards fulfillment, stressing the importance of self-care and setting positive examples for their children.

Tune in for an illuminating dialogue on discovering contentment and satisfaction amidst the myriad demands of motherhood and beyond.

[00:00] Introduction [02:48] Dr. Gutman's personal journey and experiences with adversity [10:38] Aiming for satisfaction rather than happiness [13:35] Small positive changes to achieve satisfaction. [17:15] Actionable steps for avoiding assumptions. [20:23] Setting boundaries and saying no mindfully. [23:19] Making decisions without fear of judgment [26:21] Owning your decisions and building self-confidence. [28:10] Implementing bite-sized tasks for productivity [32:10] Importance of self-care and modeling it for children. [36:20] Where to find Dr. Guttman online

Learn more about Dr. Jennifer Guttman:

https://www.guttmanpsychology.com/

Instagram: @guttman_psychology 

Find Dr. Guttman’s book on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble here: https://go.sylikes.com/eMB7QbZxKYtu

Looking for More? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  

@Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #12 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Dr. Hilary Berger, former SAHM and Founder of Work Like a Mother. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Makensi Gage, mom of 3 and author of “It’s a NO From Me: A People Pleaser’s Guide To Freedom(ish)”

As a recovering people pleaser and after years of being the "yes" girl, Makensi is learning that doing it all is overrated. Focusing on her personal growth doesn't come easy and yes, she complains.  In her life, the laundry piles up, the toilets aren't always clean, her kids fight, and dinner is rarely homemade.

In her book, “It’s a NO From Me..A People Pleaser’s Guide To Freedom(ish)”, Makensi identifies the obstacles that many of us are faced with just because we are women…which she believes also comes with so many unrealistic standards. She shares her peaks and valleys, life experiences that will have you nodding in agreement, many lessons learned, and embarrassing moments that will make you laugh out loud.  She’s navigating the exhausting job of being a wife and mom of three, all while trying to find herself. What seemed impossible suddenly feels within reach after utilizing the freedom of saying NO.

Join Sharon and Makensi as they discuss the importance of being open and honest in relationships, the power in saying “no”, and embracing grace and patience.

Makensi's story serves as a reminder that it is okay to ask for help, set boundaries, and prioritize self-care as a stay-at-home parent. The mental load of parenting is real, and it is essential to recognize and address it in order to maintain mental health and well-being. By sharing her experiences and insights, Makensi inspires other mothers to embrace their journey, find their voice, and prioritize themselves in the midst of the chaos of parenting.

[00:00] Introduction [00:50] Makensi’s background [02:00] Transitioning to stay-at-home mom [04:12] The reality of being a stay-at-home mom [06:03] The inspiration and meaning behind "It's a No from Me" [12:01] How margarita recipes made their way into Makensi’s book [15:30] The ease and the challenges of writing a book [20:32] The importance of girls trips [25:10] The crazy logistics of moms getting away [28:00] The role of respect in relationships [30:00] How Makensi’s mom superpowers help her in parenting and writing [36:00] Makensi’s MORE, her communication superpower and a second book [37:43] Where to find Mackensi online

Learn more about Mackensi Gage:

Instagram: @makensigage

Instagram: @highwayjets (Makensi and hubby Dustin’s side hustle business)

Makensi’s book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4cLqlf1

Looking for More? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  

@Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #12 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Dr. Jennifer Guttman, Clinical Psychologist and author of Beyond Happiness: The 6 Secrets of Lifetime Satisfaction. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Sean Pitt, a single mom who bootstrapped her way from adversity to success.

Sean’s personal reinvention, years in the making, allows her to live a life of purpose and strong faith.  She started as a Nurse’s Assistant and had an epiphany that led her to cosmetology school. She is now a Senior Stylist at Salon Dada in Westport CT.

Join Sharon and Sean as they discuss personal growth through motherhood, the power of choice and encouragement when raising children, and the importance of continuing on when the inevitable roadblocks arise.

Sean’s personal motto of recreate, rebuild, resolve and relive will inspire moms to push on when the going gets tough, trust their innate goodness and worthiness, and possess a truly positive outlook on life. As Sean brilliantly exemplifies, anything is possible with perseverance, faith in oneself and hard work.

[00:00] Introduction [00:50] Sean’s background [03:14] Overcoming adversity before motherhood [04:52] Discovering pregnancy and choosing a better path [05:50] Sean's commitment to her son's well-being and personal growth [08:32] Sean's career success and supportive community [11:18] Sean's philosophy on life's challenges and learning self-love [12:58] Sean's approach to parenting and letting go [15:56] Embracing life's uncertainties with positivity [18:57] The impact of ministry and living a life of service and light [20:48] Sean's gem of wisdom for daily living [23:24] Being more to others [25:14] Where to find Sean

Learn more about Sean Pitt: Sean can be found at Salon Dada in Westport, CT

Looking for More? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  @Sharon Macey on LinkedIn. Keep an eye out for episode #12 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Mackenzi Gage, mom of 3 and author of “It’s a NO From Me.  A People Pleaser’s Guide To Freedom(ish)”  Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Lea Porter, Luxury Realtor in Los Angeles.

Prior to having a family, Lea Porter, had a multi-dimensional background as a financial analyst at Xerox and TRW, as a real estate investor and as a realtor.

She holds a BBA from The University of Texas at Austin and an MBA from Cal State University/Los Angeles. She remains actively involved in many professional associations including Young Presidents' Organization (YPO), Chief Executives' Organization, American Israel Political Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and the Cedars-Sinai Board of Governors.

Lea took a hiatus from the real estate industry for 18 years to raise her family.  After her kids had grown and flown, she boldly re-entered the luxury real estate industry in Q4 2021.  In 2022, Lea had over $140M in real estate sales and in 2023 hit $154M in sales and is in the top 0.5% of luxury realtors in the nation.  Lea has been featured in Los Angeles Business Journal's Top Realtor issue.  This woman knows how to sell a property!

Join Sharon and Lea as they discuss the influence her own working parents had on Lea’s desire to stay home, Lea’s fearless re-entry into the real estate industry, and her wise advice to moms considering their next act.

Lea's journey is a testament to the power of reinvention and the resilience of moms. She didn't let the perceived limitations of her time away from the workforce hold her back. Instead, she tapped into her skills of organization, negotiation, problem-solving and teaching, honed during her years as a stay-at-home mom, and applied them to her real estate career. Her story serves as a reminder that motherhood is not a hindrance to professional growth, but rather a source of strength and valuable skills that can be leveraged in any industry.

[00:00] Introduction [01:58] Lea’s background [03:14] How growing up with working parents influenced Lea's decision to become a stay-at-home mom [04:27] The busy life of a stay-at-home mom and the many skills a mom develops during this time [06:47] Finding the humor in motherhood and Lea's unique approach to parenting [10:02] Contemplating a return to work post-COVID [13:18] Adapting to the new realities of real estate in 2021 [18:43] Perception of moms reentering the workforce [22:23] The value of skills acquired as a mom and the ability to take a chance and just go for it. [24:23] Lea’s personal challenges to reestablish herself and the surprising “No’s” she received from friends [26:52] Advice for moms considering their next act [31:37] Using teaching skills to create Lea’s MORE [34:26] Where to find Lea online

Learn more about Lea Porter: Instagram: @lea__porter and @thebeverlyhillsestates Website: leaporterestates.com

Website: thebeverlyhillsestates.com

Looking for more? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Keep an eye out for episode #11 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Sean Pitt, a single mom who bootstrapped her way from adversity to success.  Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff. 

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Deb Perkins, Founder and CEO of Broad of Directors, the company that teaches early-stage entrepreneurs how to build the type of company that gets funded.  

A 3X entrepreneur, 2X Intrapreneur, consultant, and digital educator with 20+ years of experience as a founder, co-founder, board member, advisor or founding team member, Deb has worked with hundreds of entrepreneurs in almost every industry.

Deb graduated from Vanderbilt University and attended the Marketing Management segment of Columbia University’s Executive MBA program. She is a self-avowed "lifetime learner" and currently resides in Austin, Texas.

Sharon and Deb discuss applying the many mom skills and superpowers in the business world, some challenges that may be faced when starting a business and the need for more women in the entrepreneurial space.

Deb's story is particularly inspiring for other moms as it showcases her resilience and adaptability in transitioning from a high-powered corporate career to being a full-time mom of triplets. She emphasizes the importance of testing ideas, being resourceful, and seeking support from advisors. Deb's journey reflects the inherent resourcefulness of women, and she encourages others to embrace exciting careers that stimulate and fulfill them, regardless of age. Through her work, she aims to address the funding gap for women and underrepresented minorities in the startup world. Overall, Deb's story serves as a beacon of inspiration for moms seeking to reinvent themselves and pursue fulfilling careers beyond traditional roles.

Deb's passion for learning and challenging herself is the driving force in finding fulfillment in her career and making a positive difference in the entrepreneur’s lives she touches. 

[00:00] Introduction [00:53] Deb’s background [02:00] Deb's experience as a Stay-at-Home mom of triplets [03:57] The decision and challenges of leaving full-time work to stay home with kids [06:36] Transitioning from the corporate world to being an entrepreneur [11:35] Skills developed as a stay-at-home mom and their applications in business [15:05] Listening is a valuable skill set that easily transitions from motherhood to business. The various HR skills you use as a mom. [16:38] Encouraging women in entrepreneurship and overcoming funding challenges [19:00] Challenges and struggles in starting Broad of Directors [21:41] Testing ideas and seeking advice are key for entrepreneurs [24:39] Creative funding methods when starting a new business [27:53] A woman’s innate resourcefulness and creativity in powering up an entrepreneurial idea [30:23] Deb's perspective on reinvention and pursuing excitement in career [32:08] Where to find Deb online

Learn more about Deb Perkins and Broad of Directors:

Website: https://www.broadofdirectors.com Instagram: @broadofdirectors 

LinkedIn: @debperkins  

Facebook: @broadofdirectors 

Looking for more? Follow @momtomore on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. Keep an eye out for episode #10 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Lea Porter, Luxury Realtor in Los Angeles.  Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Lee Woodruff, mother of four, best-selling author, multi-platform journalist, executive media trainer, philanthropist and wife of ABC’s News Anchor Bob Woodruff. Lee shares her parenting wisdom with grace and humor on a host of universal mom and family related topics..

Lee and Bob garnered critical acclaim for their frank and compelling account of how their lives came together, were blown apart, and miraculously put back together again following Bob’s roadside bomb injury in Iraq in their co-authored, #1 New York Times best-selling book In an Instant.  Following that, Lee wrote Perfectly Imperfect: A Life In Progress, chronicling her life as a wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend covering topics and challenges every mom can fully relate to.

Together they founded the Bob Woodruff Foundation to ensure our nation’s veterans, service members and their families, have stable and successful futures. To date, the foundation has invested over $157 million, complementing our government’s work and ensuring our veterans thrive long after they return home.

Sharon and Lee discuss Lee’s decision to stay home with their kids, her thoughts on keeping your passions alive during motherhood (yes, it’s challenging), giving advice vs letting kids vent, the power of strong female friendships, and finding community during life’s toughest moments.

Lee's insights and wisdom offer valuable lessons for moms navigating their own journeys. As we look to the future, it is clear that there is always more to explore and discover, and that the next chapter holds endless possibilities.

[00:00] Introduction [00:49] Lee’s background [03:16] Balancing motherhood while keeping your passions alive [04:08] The importance of teamwork in marriage [05:50] The challenges of solo parenting when a spouse is away [09:25] A life changing day at Disney [12:08] Finding inner strength through difficult times [14:17] The power of female friendships [16:59] Lee’s wise advice to her “new mom” self [20:31] Building resilience through life’s challenges [22:24] Creating the Bob Woodruff Foundation [25:28] Lee’s favorite book of all time [27:07] Finding community in difficult times [33:37] Supporting your children through listening [34:55] Lee’s next act [36:09] Where to find Lee online

Learn more about Lee Woodruff:

Lee’s website: https://leewoodruff.com/Instagram: @leewoodruff

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #9 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Deb Perkins, Entrepreneur and Founder of Broad of Directors.  Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Natalie Friscia Pancetti, former SAHM, mom-master of reinvention and author of “This Too…”. 

Natalie has studied human behavior and habits for almost 20 years - as a teacher, tutor and real estate agent. She holds a BS in Marketing with a minor in Psychology and a Master of Education.

Her passions are her family, her dog, walking, writing and living with a faith-filled positive attitude.  Her dad always taught her to not sweat the small stuff and to cherish the sweet spots in life as they all pass too quickly.  With an intention for people to feel less alone in their life journeys, Natalie put pen to paper and started compiling phrases based upon his wisdom.  Her recently released book, This Too…, shares enlightening “life-isms” that give readers a fresh perspective on everyday life while providing inspirational words to ground you during life’s joyful and difficult times.  Join Sharon and Natalie as they discuss the role of parents in laying a foundation for their children's future success, the skills and superpowers of stay-at-home moms, and the concept of “life-isms.”

Natalie showcases the diverse skills and superpowers that moms possess. Her story highlights the importance of staying true to oneself, following one's intuition, and finding joy in the small moments of life. Natalie's journey is a testament to the resilience and determination of mothers who strive to create their "more" while navigating the challenges and joys of motherhood.

[00:00] Introduction [00:35] Natalie’s background [02:10] Natalie's decision to stay home with her children and pursue a teaching career. [04:02] The importance of retooling your skillset (and maybe going back to school) as a SAHM. [06:00] Natalie's father's vision of her becoming a teacher and how it came true. [07:19] The various mom skills and superpowers Natalie honed during her time as a SAHM. [11:40] Importance of maintaining a sense of self and pursuing passions as a mom. [14:00] Cherishing the sweet spots in life. [17:40] The concept of "this too shall pass" and how it can be applied to savoring the small moments in life. [21:53] Trusting your gut. [26:20] The importance of reaching out to others. [29:00] How past experiences and roles have shaped Natalie into the woman she is today. [30:04] Natalie’s plan for the future and promoting social emotional learning in schools. [31:28] Where to find Natalie and her book online. 

Learn more about Natalie and her new book:

Natalie’s website: https://www.nataliefrisciapancetti.com/ You can also find “This Too…” on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Instagram: @nataliefrisciapancetti

Tiktok: @npancetti

Facebook: @nataliefrisciapancetti

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #7 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Lee Woodruff - speaker, author and executive media trainer.  Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥ Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Joan Hornig, Founder and CEO of Joan Hornig Jewelry - Philanthropy is Beautiful® and Pavé The Way®

Joan began her career as a professional fundraiser for Harvard University and Columbia Business School before spending 19 years on Wall Street. Since 2003, Joan has combined her love of jewelry and design, business skills and experience with non-profit organizations as Founder and CEO of her philanthropically-driven companies, Joan Hornig Jewelry - Philanthropy is Beautiful® and Pavé The Way®.  

Philanthropy is Beautiful® is a unique social enterprise model that donates 100% of profits to each purchaser's charity of choice.  Her goal is for every client to enjoy being a philanthropist and enable non-profits they care about to benefit.  Both Joan’s designs and social enterprise business model have been honored by non-profits, educational institutions and the media.  Philanthropy is Beautiful® was named Social Enterprise Innovator of the Year by AI Global Media in 2023, marking the second year in a row receiving this award.

All selected by customers, Joan’s donations have raised millions of dollars and are spread among more than 1,000 nonprofits worldwide.  Her jewelry designs are worn by numerous stars, business leaders and government officials including First Ladies Laura Bush and Michelle Obama, Former Secretary of State, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Oprah, Lady Gaga, and Jennifer Lopez. Joan's work continues to be a favorite gift from the US State Department to visiting dignitaries.

Join Sharon and Joan as they discuss the power of women supporting women, conscious consumerism and the ability to make a difference through purchasing choices and the importance of believing in oneself.

[00:00] Introduction. [00:32] Joan’s background and her journey to becoming a stay-at-home mom [04:43] Joan's jewelry making journey and introduction to Bergdorf Goodman [10:53] The importance of support from other mothers and women [13:31] Joan's innate jewelry making skills and belief in herself [15:31] Testing new jewelry and the importance of jewelry as a form of self-expression [16:54] The inspiration behind Joan’s jewelry [22:46] Philanthropy is Beautiful and empowering the purchaser [30:20] Pave the Way and the significance of the pieces [38:08] Joan's second act and empowering moms to pursue their passions. [40:37] What is so fun about  jewelry and giving your kids wings [43:38] Lifelong learning and Joan’s more [44:56] Where to find Joan and her jewelry online

Learn more about Joan Horning and her work:

Website: www.ptwjewelry.com Instagram: @pavethewayjewelry @joanhornig

Tiktok: @pavethewayjewelry

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #7 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Natalie Friscia Pancetti - author and mother of reinvention.  Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff.

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Myra Glazer.

Myra Glazer married young and was a SAHM when there were few other choices for women of her generation. She is her family’s matriarch and trusted Nana and advisor to her beloved 8 grandchildren. While raising her 3 girls, she did all the mom-things stay-at-home-moms do:  Volunteering at her kids' schools, Girl Scout Leader, serving as President of the PTA and sitting on an astounding number of boards. 

Myra served as a highly successful fundraiser for local hospitals and numerous organizations and nonprofits.  She was involved at the ground level of Friends of Public Television in the city of St. Louis.  After raising her children, Myra’s “mid life crisis” resulted in her personal reinvention: Going to work for the first time at 50 (and actually being paid) as a reservation specialist and future Travel Academy instructor for TWA Airlines. 

Join Sharon and Myra as they discuss the power of teaching, the strength of building connections, and the importance of keeping your brain stimulated at every stage of life. 

Myra's journey of personal growth and self-improvement is truly inspiring. She emphasizes the importance of constantly evolving and challenging ourselves to become better and smarter individuals. Her story teaches us the power of a growth mindset and the rewards that come from putting in the effort.

[00:00] Introduction. [01:56] Myra’s background and inspiration for being a SAHM. [03:40] Myra’s love for staying busy and volunteering. [04:57] Memorable volunteering moments [11:38] Utilizing mom skills and superpowers [14:07] The value of kindness and teaching conflict resolution. [17:01] Myra’s time on the national council of Alpha Epsilon Phi Sorority [20:40] Myra’s first paying job at age 50 [22:43] Applying communication skills [26:25] ‘Just staying home with the kids’ is anything but. [28:05] Continuous self-improvement and the importance of keeping your brain stimulated [32:42] Where to find Myra online

Learn more about Myra Glazer: Instagram: @myraglazer

Mom To MORE™ Pod is written and produced by Sharon Macey. It is edited by Aspen Streiff. Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #6 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Joan Hornig, founder, designer and owner of Philanthropy is Beautiful Jewelry. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Melani Lust, the award-winning visionary artist behind Melani Lust Photography.

Originally from San Diego, Melani came to New York to pursue dance and was accepted into the prestigious Alvin Ailey School of Dance. After dancing both commercially and Off-Broadway, she realized show business was not for her.  Melani went to NYU to major in Math and interned one summer in Finance where she realized she was bored out of her mind. She went back to NYU and changed her major to Art History, receiving both her BA and MA. Melani worked at Sotheby’s in 19th century European paintings, which marked the beginning of her artistic journey and development of her uniquely artistic eye as a future award-winning wedding photographer. Melani is a mom of 3 and raised her kids in Westport, Connecticut. She is also passionate about environmental causes and hopes to dedicate more of her time to philanthropy in the future.

Join Sharon and Melani as they discuss the power of slow growth, embracing imperfections and the art of delegation. 

Melani’s journey reminds us that success doesn’t happen overnight. Her story is a testament that building something meaningful takes time and patience. It is possible to start small while the children are young, grow your business, passion or hobby as your kids grow, and as you are welcoming more ‘me time’ into your schedule. No dream is too big or too small, and with determination, anything is possible!

[00:00] Introduction.

[00:51] Melani’s background and her reasoning for being a SAHM.

[05:24] The “birth’ of Melani Lust Photography and creating a career that allowed for staying home with the kids. 

[09:36] How Melani got into wedding photography.

[11:14] Jumping in, even when not feeling fully confident.

[13:11] How Melani has refined her eye over time

[17:14] Melani discusses her favorite place to shoot, and why.

[18:35] Prioritizing, the art of delegation and setting boundaries. 

[20:06] The impact that working had on Melani’s children

[20:41] Dedicating more time to philanthropic work. 

[23:50] Where to find Melani and Melani Lust Photography

Learn more about Melani Lust and Melani Lust Photography:

Website: https://melanilustphotography.com/ Instagram: @melanilustphotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelaniLustPhotography

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #5 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Myra Glazer, family matriarch and forever teacher who got her first paying job at the age of 50. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Alison Bruhn, the mom of the mother-daughter duo who founded The Style That Binds Us -  the original next-generation women’s media company and community.

Alison is a national style and image consultant based in New York City with clients across the country. Alison reinvented herself in her 50s when she studied at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and later co-founded The Style That Binds Us with her daughter, Delia Folk.

The purpose of her work is to empower women through creating a visual brand and transforming their style to ignite a new path of confidence and independence. 

Alison's expertise is frequently called upon by top-tier publications including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, The Zoe Report, Byrdie, Forbes, HuffPost, Bustle, Well+Good, Elle, Condé Nast Traveler, People, InStyle, The Everygirl, Brides, Southern Bride & more, as well as public speaking engagements & podcast interviews. 

Join Sharon and Alison as they discuss overcoming societal expectations, embracing change and the importance of growth and learning at all ages.

Alison overcame her fear of other people’s opinions of an appropriate career and followed her own unique interests.  Her story shows us that it's never too late to pursue your passions, take risks and create a new path forward. 

[00:00] Introduction

[02:02] Alison’s background and her reasoning for being a SAHM

[05:44] The benefits of women's intuition and what sparked Alison’s reinvention

[09:15] Pursuing personal fulfillment through fashion. 

[11:21] Rediscovering forgotten passions.

[16:30] New business endeavors and tips on building a core professional wardrobe. 

[18:58] Pushing the envelope and having the courage to try new things.  

[22:14] The many skills you have to offer as a mom.

[22:56] Life over 40 and having each other’s backs. 

[28:19] Alison shares style tips.

[32:11] Staying busy and surrounding yourself with friends of different ages.

[37:11] Where to find Alison and The Style That Binds Us.

Learn more about The Style That Binds Us:

Website: https://thestylethatbindsus.com/ Instagram: @thestylethatbindsus

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thestylethatbindsus

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChFVuT_XmJMPPnrK7rjGbIw

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #4 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Melani Lust, world renowned wedding and editorial photographer. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In this episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guests Shawnee Knight and Tina Kramer, founders of the non-profit Filling In The Blanks which fights childhood hunger by providing children in need with meals on the weekends. 

In 2013, Knight and Kramer created Filling In The Blanks, which has now expanded to include over 100 sites, including schools, after school programs, and camps throughout Fairfield and Westchester Counties and has delivered over 2 million weekend meals to children in low income households. These two multidimensional moms created something so essential in their extended community, and they now serve an extraordinary 5,500 kids a week.

Join Sharon, Shawnee and Tina as they discuss taking the first step, the importance of asking questions, moving forward with your vision, and not taking “No” for an answer. 

Shawnee and Tina are true visionaries, whose passion, determination, and ability to rally the community have led to the success of Filling in the Blanks. Their dedication to their mission and their ability to overcome challenges make them an inspiration to other stay-at-home moms looking to make a difference.

[00:00] Introduction

[01:45] Shawnee and Tina’s background and the Importance of being Stay-at-home-moms

[03:16] How Shawnee and Tina met and the beginning of their nonprofit journey.

[05:01] The beginning of Filling in the Blanks and the challenges faced during the growth of the organization.

[08:24] The importance of asking questions and the education and learning involved when considering your next act

[14:10] Shawnee and Tina discuss the struggles they faced in their journey and how they pushed through them.

[16:55] Plans for growth, engaging new schools, the importance of community support and upcoming events.

[22:50] Shawnee and Tina share their personal definitions of "MORE" and provide advice to other moms.

[28:02] Where to find Filling in the Blanks online.

Learn more about Filling in the Blanks:

Website: https://www.fillingintheblanks.org/ Instagram: @filling_blanks

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FillingintheBlanks1/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FillingintheblanksOrgNewCanaan

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok. Keep an eye out for episode #3 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Alison Bruhn, co-founder of The Style That Binds Us. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥

In the debut episode of Mom to MORE™, host Sharon Macey is joined by guest Ellen Friedlander. Originally from Upstate New York, Ellen has lived a life of creativity, movement and reinvention. She has lived in numerous cities across the United States, as well as fifteen years abroad in Hong Kong where she raised her two children. After moving back to the States with her kids and becoming an empty-nester, Ellen moved to Los Angeles in order to pursue her lifelong dream of being an artist. Ellen’s career has seen international success as a result of her unwavering commitment to her craft and her community.

Join Sharon and Ellen as they discuss the many rewards of motherhood, the importance of finding time everyday to do what you love, being resilient when starting something new, and finding your MORE.

Ellen's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to pursue your passion, kickstart a previous career or chart an entirely new path.  As a stay-at-home mom, you can find a way to make your dreams a reality. It will take time, effort and an unwavering belief in yourself and your ultimate goal, but in the end, it’s so worth it.

[00:00] Introduction

[01:45] Ellen’s background and how Sharon and Ellen met.

[03:08]When and how Ellen realized photography was her passion and how that passion tied into motherhood.

[05:22] Why motherhood is so rewarding, the valuable skills you gain as a stay-at-home mom, and how those skills will set up Future You. 

[10:17] Life in Hong Kong and how that influenced Ellen’s work, Ellen’s “extended frame series” and finding your passion.

[15:14] Doing what you love everyday, exuding your passion and being resilient when starting something new.

[19:50] Sharon and Ellen touch on some powerful quotes of Ellen’s regarding her work.

[21:49] Pushing through personal doubts to find your voice and overcoming judgment.

[26:45] Curiosity, community, and unwavering positivity and Ellen’s “MORE.”

[30:28] Where to find Ellen online.

Recommended books:

Brené Brown: Atlas Of The Heart

Elizabeth Gilbert: Big Magic

Richard Templar: The Rules Of Life

Twyla Tharp: The Creative Habit

Where to find Ellen Friedlander:

Instagram: @emfphoto59

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063961600555&sk=about

https://www.ellenfriedlanderphotography.com/

Ellen’s Candid Frame Series: https://www.ibarionex.net/thecandidframe/2020/1/20/the-candid-frame-499-ellen-friedlander

Looking for more? Follow along @momtomore on Instagram and Tiktok.  Keep an eye out for episode #2 of the Mom to MORE™ podcast where Sharon is joined by Shawnee Knight and Tina Kramer founders of the non-profit Fillin in the Blanks. Coming soon - you won’t want to miss it ♥