Mom's Guide to Finding Herself: Side Hustles, Hobbies, and Surviving While Parenting Young Children - podcast cover

Mom's Guide to Finding Herself: Side Hustles, Hobbies, and Surviving While Parenting Young Children

Krissy Boldrss.com

Have you ever looked in the mirror after another exhausting day and thought, “When did I stop being ME and become just MOM?” Your passions, hobbies, and friendships feel so distant, buried beneath sleepless nights and the never-ending to-do lists of raising young children.

I get it. I’ve been there too. As a mom of two young kids, I’ve experienced the frustration of losing myself in the chaos of motherhood. I know how overwhelming it can be to find time for yourself, meet other moms, find a supportive mom community, and even entertain the idea of starting a side hustle, creative project, or small business. That’s why I created this podcast—to help moms like us rediscover who we are and take the first steps toward meaningful change.

Hi, I’m Krissy. I’m a former teacher and teacher coach who has always embraced new opportunities and juggled multiple side gigs. Over the past four years, I’ve been on a journey to rediscover my identity beyond motherhood—and I’ve finally figured it out. Along the way, I’ve helped other moms reconnect with their passions, explore creative ideas, and build meaningful connections with other moms by helping them create practical, realistic plans to rediscover their identities—even through the chaos and busyness of parenting. Whether you’re looking for ideas for mom entrepreneurs, tips on balancing parenting and being a mompreneur, inspiration to take that first step, or simply love hearing stories of moms navigating motherhood and building something extraordinary, this podcast is your guide to rediscovering yourself and creating something amazing.

In this podcast, you’ll hear honest, relatable stories from moms just like you—women who’ve navigated the challenges of parenting, discovered new passions, built businesses, and launched side hustles. Each episode offers practical self-care advice, uplifting moments, and fresh ideas to help you take small steps toward rediscovering yourself. You’ll find inspiration and support for all the mom guilt, parenting challenges, and the struggle to balance personal development. The demands of family life can leave you feeling lost in the midst of motherhood challenges. It’s time to take control of your personal growth and find ways to prioritize self-care for moms like us.

Whether you’re lost in a mountain of diapers or longing for hope and connection, each episode will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and supported on your motherhood journey.

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Episodes

49 From Teacher to Toddler Mom: How This Mom Reclaimed Her Spark with Brittany Nassery

Feel like motherhood turned your brain to mush? One minute you’re a multitasking queen with a planner full of goals, the next you’re calculating how many snacks fit in a diaper bag. In this episode, we’re talking with Brittany Nassery (@teachertotoddlers), a former teacher turned stay-at-home mom, about what happens when your brain craves more than diapers and nap schedules—but you’re not quite sure how to find yourself again. This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what feels like you. BY...

Jul 14, 202527 minSeason 1Ep. 49

48 My Summer Mom Hack: How ChatGPT Is Saving My Sanity

Are your kids home for the summer and your brain already fried? You’re not alone. The chaos hits hard, and early. Between the snack requests, sunscreen battles, and spontaneous meltdowns, it can feel like you’re running a cruise ship with zero staff. But what if you had a behind-the-scenes assistant helping you stay sane? No, not a nanny. Not another Pinterest-perfect craft board. I’m talking about ChatGPT. Yep, I’m using AI to make this summer lighter, smoother, and (dare I say) actually fun. I...

Jul 07, 202512 minSeason 1Ep. 48

47 When Your Kid Melts Down and You Want to Disappear: Handling Public Mom Shame

What’s the most mortifying mom moment you’ve had in public? If it involved your child melting down in the middle of Target while strangers stared—you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re getting real about mom shame: why your nervous system spirals when your kid loses it in public, what those looks from strangers really mean, and how to shift out of fear and into connection. Because tantrums are normal—but shame doesn’t have to be. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN: Why your child’s...

Jun 30, 202513 minSeason 1Ep. 47

46 Loneliness in Motherhood Is Real - But So Is Connection

You're with your kids all day—so why does it still feel so lonely? If you’ve ever looked around your chaotic, love-filled home and thought "why do I feel so unseen?" —this episode is for you. Because the truth is: motherhood can be isolating, even when you're surrounded by people. In this heartfelt conversation, Krissy unpacks why loneliness in motherhood is so common, how it silently sets in, and what you can do to rebuild connection—even if you feel awkward, tired, or totally out of practice. ...

Jun 23, 202511 minSeason 1Ep. 46

45 What Dads Wish Moms Knew About Dadhood with Adam Flaherty: Father's Day Edition

What are the unspoken challenges dads face in today's world? While much attention is given to the struggles of motherhood, the emotional journey of fathers often remains in the shadows. In this eye-opening conversation with Adam Flaherty, host of Modern Dadhood , we delve into the silent battles many dads endure—from feelings of isolation to the complexities of evolving relationships. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: The prevalent sense of loneliness among new fathers and its i...

Jun 16, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 45

44 Fatherhood Rewrote His Identity & Why That's OK with Adam Flaherty: Father's Day Edition

Do dads go through identity crises too? If you've ever wondered what the other half of your parenting partnership is really thinking (but not always saying), this episode is for you. We often talk about the identity shift moms go through, but what about dads? What happens when a guy who used to live for his band and the stage suddenly finds himself sleepless, emotionally raw, and unsure of his place in this new family dynamic? In today’s episode, Adam Flaherty of the Modern Dadhood podcast gets ...

Jun 09, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 44

43 The Secrets Behind Overcoming Mom Guilt

Are you laying in bed at night replaying everything you should’ve done differently as a mom? You’re not alone. From yelling too much to not playing enough, the guilt hits hard—no matter what kind of mom you are. But here’s the kicker: guilt isn’t proof you’re failing—it’s proof you care. In this episode, we get brutally honest about the guilt spiral and why it won’t stop on its own. But more importantly? You’ll learn how to challenge the stories in your head, set better boundaries, and build you...

Jun 02, 202512 minSeason 1Ep. 43

42 From Shame to Strength: What Every Mom Should Know About Her Pelvic Floor with Dr. Sara Reardon

We’ve been taught to laugh it off, cross our legs when we sneeze, and never talk about the pain or pressure we carry after becoming moms. But that silence? It’s not serving us. In this episode, Dr. Sara Reardon—aka The Vagina Whisperer —is back to talk about the shame so many moms carry in their bodies and their identities. From pelvic floor problems to the way we disconnect from ourselves, this episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever thought, “Why didn’t anyone tell me it could be like this?” W...

May 26, 202527 minSeason 1Ep. 42

41 What No One Tells You About Postpartum, Pooping, and Pelvic Floor Recovery with Dr. Sara Reardon

In this raw and relatable conversation, I sit down with Dr. Sara Reardon—aka The Vagina Whisperer —to talk about the parts of postpartum nobody prepared her for. From nipple shields and neighbor support to that unforgettable first poop after birth (yep, we go there), Sara shares how her personal experience shaped the way she now helps others heal. We also dive into: What surprised her—even as a pelvic floor expert The shame moms carry when things don’t “go back to normal” Why making mom friends ...

May 19, 202527 minSeason 1Ep. 41

40 What No One Tells You About Birthdays After Kids

Why do birthdays feel so lonely after becoming a mom? You’re not imagining it—once motherhood enters the picture, birthdays can start to feel less like “your day” and more like just another Tuesday with a to-do list. In this episode, Krissy shares why moms often feel forgotten on their own birthdays and how to reclaim that sense of celebration—even if no one else is throwing the party. Inside this episode, you’ll discover: Why birthdays lose their sparkle after motherhood (and how that’s totally...

May 12, 202511 minSeason 1Ep. 40

39 Sick of Disappointing Mother’s Days? 10 Simple Traditions That Can Change Everything

Ever feel sick of disappointing Mother’s Days that leave you feeling overlooked and worn out instead of celebrated? If you’re tired of waiting for others to “get it right” or scrambling to make the day special only to end up exhausted, you’re not alone. This episode is for every mom who’s ready to take Mother’s Day back into her own hands and create simple, meaningful traditions that actually feel good—no more pressure, guilt, or extra work. If you’ve tried to make Mother’s Day magical by planni...

May 05, 202512 minSeason 1Ep. 39

38 3 Insider Secrets to Avoiding Burnout in Motherhood with Michelle Grosser

Are you feeling trapped in a cycle of endless demands, unable to find peace in the chaos of motherhood? Burnout can sneak up on you, leaving you frazzled and longing for a break. This episode of Mom's Guide to Finding Herself tackles the real, tangible ways to combat burnout, navigate parenthood's challenges, and rediscover joy in daily life. In this episode, we're delving deep into the secrecy of burnout in motherhood, exploring why so many moms hit capacity without a way out, and uncovering pr...

Apr 28, 202529 minSeason 1Ep. 38

37 How Severe Burnout Transformed This Mom's Approach to Motherhood with Michelle Grosser

Have you ever felt like the never-ending cycle of being overwhelmed and exhausted is just part of being a mom? You're not alone, but it's not something you have to endure forever. In this episode, we're confronting the often misunderstood reality of burnout in motherhood. Many moms accept chronic fatigue, anxiety, and feeling frazzled as unavoidable, but host Krissy Bold and guest Michelle Grosser from The Calm Mom Podcast reveal that these symptoms are common, yet not normal—and that there is a...

Apr 21, 202527 minSeason 1Ep. 37

36 Why Do I Feel So Lonely In Motherhood?

Ever felt utterly alone despite being surrounded by people? Motherhood can be surprisingly isolating, leaving many moms feeling disconnected and lonely. In this episode, we're diving deep into the often unspoken struggle of loneliness in motherhood. We'll explore the reasons why so many moms feel isolated, the impact it has on their well-being, and most importantly, what you can do to find connection and support. Inside this episode, you're going to learn: The common reasons why moms feel lonely...

Apr 14, 202516 minSeason 1Ep. 36

Mom Mentor Moment 3: The Exact Steps I Took to Launch a Top 3 Parenting Podcast as a Busy Mom

Have you ever wondered how some podcasts quickly climb the charts while others seem to go unnoticed? As a busy mom, breaking into the top podcast rankings might feel impossible. In this episode, I'm revealing the strategic steps I took to launch my podcast, which debuted at number three in the parenting category. Discover why your current approach might be holding you back and what you should focus on instead to make your podcast dreams a reality. Inside this episode, you're going to learn: The ...

Apr 10, 202517 min

35 5 Mom Friendly Side Hustles and Hobbies I've Tried - And How You Can Too!

Are you tired of your identity revolving around snacks, tantrums, and bedtime battles? You’re not alone! Motherhood can sometimes feel like an all-consuming role, leaving little room for your own passions and interests. But it doesn't have to be that way. Inside this episode, you're going to learn: How to find a side hustle that fits your busy mom life. Why starting small is key to avoiding overwhelm. How to experiment with different side hustles without guilt. Why it's okay to pivot if somethin...

Apr 07, 202520 minSeason 1Ep. 35

34 Moms Are Drowning in the Mental Load— How to Stop Carrying It Alone with Dr. Morgan Cutlip

You're not alone if you feel like you are drowning in motherhood. It's not because you're incapable or failing; it's the weight of the never-ending to-do list. It's not just about who does the dishes or puts the kids to bed. It's the invisible labor of planning, organizing, anticipating, and emotionally buffering every situation. Inside this episode, you’ll learn: What the mental load is and why women tend to carry the bulk of it. How the mental load impacts our mental health and relationships. ...

Mar 31, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 34

Mom Mentor Moment 2: When a Successful Side Hustle Requires You to Pivot with Shay

Have you ever had a dream of starting a business but weren't sure how to get there? Today we share the story of a mom who started her own small business from scratch but isn't quite sure what the next step is. We'll work together to come up with some exciting ideas for her next steps, focusing on her goals for her family and business. If you've got a great thing going but it's not quite fitting into your life the way you want, you’re in the right place. Inside this episode, you'll learn: How to ...

Mar 27, 202525 min

33 When Motherhood Changes You, But Not Your Partner with Dr. Morgan Cutlip

Have you ever felt like motherhood completely changed your life while your partner's stayed pretty much the same? Are you running on empty, doing everything in the daily grind, and losing yourself in the process? You're told to soak up every moment, but what about when you don't even feel like a person anymore? Many women feel motherhood changes everything, and no one prepares them for just how much of themselves they’re going to lose in the process. Inside this episode, you’re going to learn: H...

Mar 24, 202526 minSeason 1Ep. 33

32 What Type of Mom Are You, and Does it Matter?

Have you ever felt like the mom you thought you'd be is totally different from the mom you actually are? Like you had this vision in your head, and then reality hit? You're not alone. In this episode, I'm going to share why so many of us feel like we are failing at motherhood simply because we don't fit into a vision that we once had about the kind of mom we thought we'd be. We'll explore the pressure to conform to certain "mom types" and why it's so important to let go of that guilt and embrace...

Mar 17, 202511 minSeason 1Ep. 32

Mom Mentor Moment 1: Starting an Interactive Play Side Hustle From Scratch with Reem Fryling

Have you ever felt the desire to build something but you weren't exactly sure what you wanted to do? Like you wanted to create something that you were inspired by and excited about, but you weren't really sure where to begin? Inside this episode, you're going to learn: How a mom started a small business running activities for local moms at a coffee shop from absolutely nothing How she pushed through these uncomfortable feelings of being vulnerable to reaching out, and connecting with people to g...

Mar 13, 202531 min

31 How (& Why) To Prepare For Second Babies (& Beyond!) From A Nurse Mom with Heather Knezic

Do you remember that feeling of total chaos when you had your first baby? You were up all night Googling things like, “Why does my baby sound like a pterodactyl?” or “Will I ever sleep again?” Are you expecting your second, third, or even fourth baby, and wondering if you're truly prepared ? In this episode, Heather Knezic, a labor and delivery nurse and mom of three, shares her wisdom on how to confidently prepare for a new baby, no matter how many you've had before. Heather shares her expert a...

Mar 10, 202535 minSeason 1Ep. 31

30 What This Labor and Delivery Nurse Wished She Knew About Motherhood with Heather Knezic

Did motherhood hit harder than you expected? You might have thought you were made for this, but then reality hits, and suddenly, you’re questioning everything. You might be overwhelmed by the picture-perfect advice out there, like everyone else knows something you don't. If you’ve ever struggled with postpartum anxiety, unrealistic expectations, or the overwhelming pressure to “do it right,” this episode is for you. Heather Knezic, a labor nurse and mom of three, shares how motherhood was nothin...

Mar 03, 202530 minSeason 1Ep. 30

29 Motherhood Makes You Rethink Everything — Even What You Thought You Knew

Has motherhood turned everything you thought you knew upside down? Your career path, your values, even your definition of success? You had a clear sense of direction before kids — expertise in your field, strong beliefs about parenting, a solid identity. Then motherhood arrived, and suddenly, nothing felt certain anymore. In this episode, I share how to navigate this identity shift and embrace the wisdom that comes with letting go of your pre-mom self. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DI...

Feb 27, 202512 minSeason 1Ep. 29

28 Hobbies and Hustles for Moms Who Crave More

How often do you find yourself scrolling through social media, wishing you could pursue something just for you but feeling too guilty to take time away from mom duties? Many moms give up their passions and interests, thinking there's no room for personal fulfillment alongside motherhood. But what if you could find something that fits your life right now? In this episode, I share why hobbies and side hustles aren't selfish — they're necessary for reconnecting with yourself beyond motherhood. BY T...

Feb 27, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 28

27 Can Writing a Book Make You Feel Like You Again? Here's How One Mom Did It with Tara Pyfrom

Have you ever wondered how someone processes a major life trauma while still managing the day-to-day demands of motherhood? Do you feel like your own story has been buried under the chaos of raising children? Many moms struggle to find time for themselves and their own stories. In this episode, Tara Pyfrom shares how she turned her experience of surviving a hurricane into a book, and how writing can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery. Her story reminds us of the importance of shar...

Feb 27, 202529 minSeason 1Ep. 27

25 How Podcasting Made Me Feel Like a Person Again

Ever feel like your identity has been reduced to just "mom"? When I became a mom, I didn't just lose time for hobbies — I lost touch with what I even enjoyed anymore. Playdates were all about the kids, and meaningful conversations felt impossible. In this episode, I share how podcasting helped me reclaim my voice and identity, plus practical ways you can start sharing your story, too. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN: Why finding the right creative outlet matters (and why forcing y...

Feb 27, 202518 minSeason 1Ep. 25

26 Lessons in Parenting From a Mom Who Survived a Cat 5 Hurricane with Tara Pyfrom

Have you ever felt like you were barely keeping your head above water as a parent? Do you sometimes wonder if you're strong enough to handle the challenges of motherhood? It's easy to feel overwhelmed as a parent, especially when facing unexpected challenges. In this episode, we talk to Tara Pyfrom, who shares her incredible journey of surviving Hurricane Dorian and finding strength through unimaginable circumstances, showing us that we all have the capacity to rise to any challenge. Her journey...

Feb 27, 202528 minSeason 1Ep. 26

24 Why Every Mom’s Story Matters (And How It Can Help You Find Yourself Again)

Have you noticed yourself turning into a background character in your own life since becoming a mom? Many moms get so caught up taking care of everyone else that they stop telling their own story — leading to a deep disconnect from who they are. In this episode, I'll show you why sharing your story is crucial if you want to find yourself again and practical ways to start, even if you only have five minutes. BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER: How staying silent about your experien...

Feb 27, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 24

23 Secrets to Improving Your Parenting - Realistic Self Care with Reesa Morala

Are you a parent who feels like you're always putting yourself last? Do you find that traditional self-care advice doesn't fit your busy life? Many of us know that self-care is important, but as parents, it often feels impossible. Between managing the kids, the household, and work, we are left running on fumes with nothing left to give ourselves. In this episode, Reesa Morala, MA, LMFT will show you how to shift your mindset and find practical strategies for self-care that fit into your daily ro...

Feb 27, 202529 minSeason 1Ep. 23
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