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Moms Who Create

Oh hi! I'm Kelli, a children’s book author, artist, mom of two, and I'm writing my first novel. This show is for moms who feel that pull toward creativity and want to make space for it again. I talk with self-published authors, New York Times bestsellers, artists, and everyday moms pursuing their creative passions. We talk about writing, art, motherhood, and living an intentional life rooted in purpose and joy. I'm glad you're here! This is the Moms Who Create Podcast.

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Episodes

5 Things To Remember If You Didn't Win NaNoWriMo

You tried. This isn’t like participation trophy word vomit. I mean like, even if it was for a week, you started writing a book. That’s honestly more than a lot of people can say. Deciding to conquer NaNo took planning. Even if you’re a panster, you’re a mom. So you did some sort of planning, right? Taking that first step, albeit not having your sought after goal, is huge. You have a base to go off of now. Again, even if you wrote 25k words or even 15k words, you have a start and now you can deve...

Dec 05, 20226 minSeason 1Ep. 53

Special One Year Anniversary Podcast Episode

Hi everyone, and welcome to this SPECIAL ONE YEAR anniversary episode of the Moms Who Create Podcast. So much has happened in the past year. The podcast has reached 6 continents, 34 countries, and has had thousands of downloads. This blows my mind. When I started, I thought, okay, if I even reach, help and encourage one mom somewhere in the world, that will be 100% worth it. So to think of how many moms I’ve potentially and hopefully encouraged gives me goosebumps. I love you all. Thank you for ...

Nov 28, 202230 minSeason 1Ep. 52

Leaving the Corporate World To Find a Bigger Purpose With Author Renee Bolla

Renee Bolla is a mom, wife, brand consultant and most recently a self-published children’s picture book author. She has always been a curious human with a passion for learning new things and making each day count. Renee didn’t grow up dreaming of becoming a writer. She dreamt of working in the fashion industry. And she did just that. She quickly climbed the corporate ladder working for some of the largest retailers in the country. Renee led merchandising and brand teams for 20 years before tradi...

Nov 21, 202234 minSeason 1Ep. 51

Writing Short Fiction + YA Novels With Author Genalea Barker

Genalea Barker is an author, freelance editor, and full-time mom with an Associate’s Degree in English Literature. Her award-winning short fiction has appeared in Gemini Magazine, Bookends Review, Grande Dame Literary, Writers in the Attic: Rupture, and others. She is the author of two young adult novels: Life After, debuting February 2023 with Immortal Works, and Lovehurts, releasing in July 2024 with Vine Leaves Press. She resides in Southern Idaho with her husband, four children, and two dogs...

Nov 14, 202231 minSeason 1Ep. 50

Building Girls’ Interest in Architecture With Podcast Host and Author Tenille Bettenhausen

Tenille has been in the AEC industry for over 20 years. She began her career in project, in architecture firms and local offices serving as a designer and project manager. The last 6 years of her career, she pivoted to business development and client relations strategist roles interfacing with clients. Tenille is currently one of the Client Success Manager at Microdesk where she truly believes that architecture and design lifts the human spirit and is a champion of goals that lead to knowledge d...

Nov 07, 202251 minSeason 1Ep. 49

Writing 50k Words in 30 Days: How To Win NaNoWriMo With Author Julie Artz

You can be a mom AND a writer. Julie is here to encourage and teach you. Julie Artz spent her young life sneaking into wardrobes searching for Narnia. When people thought that was creepy, she went in search of other ways to go on mystical adventures. Now she finds those long-sought doors to magical story worlds in her work as an author, editor, and book coach. An active member of the writing community, she volunteers for SCBWI and Pitch Wars and is a member of EFA and AWP. Julie lives in an ench...

Oct 10, 202237 minSeason 1Ep. 48

From a Story in Her Head to 10 Books in Hand: Writing Romance Novels With Author Morgan Rayne

"Being an author was always a dream of mine, one that seemed far reaching and unattainable, and then one day I decided to shoot for the stars and I'm glad I did. I have discovered things about myself during this process and absolutely love what I do. I get to share my stories and pieces of myself with people across the world, and I couldn't be happier. When I'm not writing, you can find me singing, dancing, or yelling at one of my favorite sports teams on the TV. That is, when I'm not cooking, c...

Oct 03, 202239 minSeason 1Ep. 47

Unfair and Lovely, A Children's Book Tackling Colorism with Author Mallika Thoppay

Author, Educator, Social Advocate, Mom Mallika Thoppay is an educator, social advocate and author. She is a volunteer English teacher to school-aged children residing in rural areas of Karnataka, India. She believes in women empowerment and standing up against social injustices. She was recognized as a volunteer champion for the year 2021-2022 at eVidyaloka, an organization that sets up digital classrooms in rural areas of India. Her children's book, Unfair & Lovely, tackles colorism and is ...

Sep 26, 202222 minSeason 1Ep. 46

Using Humor in Writing for Both Parents and Children with Author JK Coy

JK Coy is an author, mom and currently resides in southern California. She has the most adorable and humorous children’s books, from Love you to Pieces Beautiful Monster to a book aimed at expecting women called Because You Are Superwoman. She says her intent is to entertain the parent and child at the same time. Sometimes it’s the little joys, and inside jokes, that get everyone through another bedtime routine. You’ll find some great takeaways from today’s conversation. https://www.mymomisthewo...

Sep 19, 202221 minSeason 1Ep. 45

Being Resilient in the Face of Terrible Things - a Children's Book About Trauma with Bethany Walker

Bethany Walker is a mom, wife, social worker, and author. She is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators and Julie Hedlund’s 12x12 Picture Book Challenge. Bethany's work was recognized as a finalist for YA in the 2022 Kids' Choice Kidlit Writing Contest and as an Honorable Mention in the 2022 Picture Book Party. Bethany enjoys writing fiction in various forms including flash fiction and children's literature as well as interviewing authors on her blog "Picture Book Th...

Sep 12, 202219 minSeason 1Ep. 44

Here Are 7 Ways to Support Indie Authors

Today, I want to talk to you about indie authors. The beautiful creatures that are independent, self-published authors. I am an indie author, some of my best internet friends are indie authors and I’m sure a lot of you listening are indie authors, or at least have a friend that is. There are so many men and women (I see you, moms) out there doing the work to get their books into the hands of people all over the world. It’s a lot of work. I literally have only one fully self-written and illustrat...

Sep 05, 202212 minSeason 1Ep. 43

Creating Books That Help Children With Social and Emotional Development With Author R.C. Chizhov

RC Chizhov grew up in India, moved to New York in 2005. She has her Masters in Financial Engineering from Columbia University and spent fourteen years actually in the financial services industry, before pursuing her childhood dream of becoming an author. She now lives in Florida with her ever-supportive husband and her ever-energetic son. She loves reading, dancing to Bollywood tunes, puzzles, hiking, the beach and is a member of SCBWI active participant of the Making Room for Rhyme critique gro...

Aug 29, 202220 minSeason 1Ep. 42

Thunderstorm Sounds for Creating, Reading, Resting and Writing

Here's a mental health check. It's been an emotional week or two for me. My 5 year-old best friend (daughter) started kindergarten and my beloved best friend cat of 14 years went to heaven. Sometimes in all the ups and downs of life, we need to take time just to be. Listening to ASMR or rain sounds tends to relax me and de-stress everything from my mind to my shoulders. I also love listening to calming sounds as I work and create. I needed this peace this week. Hopefully, it serves you too. <...

Aug 22, 202259 minSeason 1Ep. 41

The Working Mom and Separation Anxiety with Author Christy Limbach

Christy is a writer, lawyer, and mother to three little dino-lovers. She knows a little bit about dinosaurs and a lot about separation anxiety. Being a working parent (or a little one with big feelings) is not easy, but Christy hopes that Asher the Dino: Mommy Goes to Work can help other grown-ups and their littles during these tough transitions. Connect with Christy on Instagram @AshertheDinoBooks http://www.AshertheDino.com Support the show Follow Moms Who Create: Instagram - https://www.insta...

Aug 15, 202224 minSeason 1Ep. 40

How to Curate Your Perfect Morning Routine

Setting an intentional morning routine really comes down to you waking up early for a reason. A purpose. Don’t just wake up to say you wake up at 5am because it’s what a book (or podcast) told you to do. Have that passion burning in you to not hit snooze at 5am, or, okay, only hit it once, and to know that your words and your art are waiting for you. What’s your reason? It can be a burning passion to just drink coffee in the quiet, listening to birds sing outside while you let your mind summon y...

Aug 08, 202222 minSeason 1Ep. 39

A Second Book Release, Inspired by Her Children with Author Kathleen Davis

Today is the release day of Kathleen Davis' second book, Feathers From Above, and she’s here to discuss how it came to her, with the story inspired by her children. It. Is. Beautiful. Kathleen also shares advice to moms who want to go after that goal they have in mind. I mean, she created and released this book while having a tiny tiny baby at home. Inspiration during the hardest times. Enjoy today’s episode. Buy her NEW book at the links below! https://kathleendavisbooks.com/books/ https://www....

Aug 01, 202222 minSeason 1Ep. 38

On Being a Teacher, Writer and Adoptive Mother with Author Jessica Gold

Jessica has worked in an art museum teaching educational programs, worked for 25 years as an elementary teacher, and now does freelance writing on top of writing children's books and novels. She has more than 10 books being released this year with Pen-It Publications, which you’ll hear her talk about. Jessica is such a joy and I hope you enjoy today’s episode. https://bookmarketingglobalnetwork.com/bmgn-authors/jessica-golds-books/?fbclid=IwAR3YKA1LtkM-4ntI_UN-kD7W7c9LK0qfx1xce5a7ALp7gA79oh5QgUM...

Jul 25, 202232 minSeason 1Ep. 37

How to Overcome Mom Burnout with Dr. Jacqueline Kerr

Burnout is real. And here’s how to overcome it. Dr Jacqueline Kerr is a mom, behavior scientist and burnout survivor. She is in the top 1% of most cited scientists worldwide. Dr Kerr left her position as a public health professor in 2018 and now hosts the podcast 'Overcoming Working Mom Burnout' where she interviews researchers, diversity experts, and leadership coaches. She is on a mission to dismantle the causes of working mom burnout and her TEDx talk provides solutions that we can all use to...

Jul 18, 20221 hr 3 minSeason 1Ep. 36

All Things Spooky: Thriller and Horror Writing with Author V.P. Morris

V.P. Morris is an award-winning thriller and horror author based in Connecticut. Her novels, ShadowCast and Dead Ringer are inspired by her interest in criminal psychology. She is a fan of anything dark and spooky. When she isn't writing, she is spending time with her husband and son. Connect with her online at the links below-- http://vpmorris.com https://twitter.com/TeaWriteRepeat https://www.instagram.com/teawriterepeat/ https://www.facebook.com/vpmorriswriter/ Support the show Follow Moms Wh...

Jul 11, 202233 minSeason 1Ep. 35

Little Kids’ Big Lessons, Writing Books on Important Values with Author Kay B

Kay is a mom of 2, wife, finance professional, and children's book author. Aside from reading, she loves to travel, cook, and spend time with her family. She's originally from New York and currently lives in Texas. As a mom and an avid reader, Kay realized that the best way to impart valuable lessons to children was through books. This realization led to the start of her journey as a self-published author. Her first book series, "Little Kids’ Big Lessons", is an inspirational set of books that f...

Jul 04, 202223 minSeason 1Ep. 34

Unique Ways to Create Art With Your Kids

These are 5 ideas to get your mind working on a creative goal that works for you and your family. Don’t stay in the box of kids' art going on the fridge and only coming from their crinkled backpack after school. Make art on purpose. Let your kids know that art is more than 30 minutes at school twice a week. Read books on artists that your children might take interest in. Again, the library is the best resource for really everything in life. I checked out some books on famous women artists that m...

Jun 27, 202212 minSeason 1Ep. 33

Creating Bilingual Children’s Books with Author Kelle Lima

Kelle Lima is an author-illustrator that has worked on the educational field from teaching to creating educational video and board games for children internationally. Coming from Brazil, she also makes sure her native language is reflected in her publications such as her bilingual activity book or book translations, like Along Came Oliver’s Portuguese edition. As a driven mom, she wants to help kids learn through fun and to build awareness around different topics. She is multilingual and has tea...

Jun 20, 202227 minSeason 1Ep. 32

The Do’s and Don’ts of Self-Publishing with Brittany Ann

I’m baaaaaack! And holy cow do I have an episode for you. Buy the Batter Up series - https://www.amazon.com/Batter-Up-Book-ebook/dp/B09FXVD37H/ref=nodl_?dplnkId=0ed9c6c9-dab4-49ad-9eee-68b9b24ebacf Brittany on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/authorbrittanyann9514/ Support the show Follow Moms Who Create: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/momswhocreatepodcast/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/momswhocreatepodcast Monthly Meeting Book Club - https://www.facebook.com/groups/momswhocrea...

Jun 13, 202255 minSeason 1Ep. 31

New Intro

Hey, my name is Kelli Heil and I’m here to show you that it’s totally possible to do what you love while raising the ones you love. It took me far too long to figure out how to balance my new role of mom while overcoming mom guilt and still living my best creative life. Motherhood does not mean we have to throw who we used to be aside and stop making art or writing books. That’s why I created this podcast. I want to inspire you to live intentionally. Whether you’re a mom who gets up at 5 am, or ...

Jun 06, 20221 min0

My Husband Interviews Me!

It's me, Kelli, on the other side of things getting asked the questions this time. My husband, Andrew, asks me about mom life, art life, my journey and why I started the podcast. I hope you enjoy this episode, and thank you to my amazing husband for doing this one with me. I'd love if you shared with me your favorite episode so far, a takeaway that has stuck with you, or your favorite guest. Connect with the podcast online– Website - https://www.momswhocreate.com/ Instagram - @momswhocreatepodca...

May 23, 202232 minSeason 1Ep. 30

Broadway, TV, Voice Acting and the Role of Mom with Amanda Leigh Cobb

Amanda is an actor, audiobook narrator, podcast host, and mom. She's performed on Broadway with some of the biggest names in the business and even played BABY in the original Nat'l tour of Dirty Dancing. Today, she's an award-winning audiobook narrator and producer working with NYTimes, USA Today, and WSJ best selling authors. Most recently, Amanda began her own podcast ABOUT Broadway understudies called Waiting in the Wings: Backstage Shenanigans with Amanda Leigh Cobb https://www.imdb.com/name...

May 16, 202237 minSeason 1Ep. 29

The Hard Stuff: Book Marketing, Mental Health and Parenting Tiny Humans with Emily Enger

Book Marketing Coach Emily Enger Emily Enger began her marketing career when she was only 16 years old. Too goal-oriented to get a typical teen job like waitress or barista, she instead became a communications coordinator for a small summer camp. Since then, she has held a variety of marketing jobs, working as assistant editor for a national trade magazine and communications director for an arts nonprofit that served 9 rural counties and 3 Native American reservations. Today, she works as a free...

May 09, 202247 minSeason 1Ep. 28

Creating a Nonprofit to Share the Love of Reading All Over the World with Leslie Gang

Leslie Gang was born and raised in Long Island New York, where she currently resides with her husband Jason and children Alexandra and Simon. She graduated from Boston University in 2007 with a major in Communications (specialization in Public Relations). Leslie has worked in the admissions and marketing field of the nonprofit sector for 15 years and is currently the Director of Admissions and Communications at the Brandeis School in Lawrence, NY, where her children attend. Leslie is an avid the...

May 02, 202240 minSeason 1Ep. 27

Pursuing Her Passion for Fashion and Finding Authenticity with Age with Christine Morrison

A freelance writer for more than a decade, Christine’s work centers around her achievements and passions, often as seen through the lens of aging: the fashion business, beauty expertise, and a devotion to wellness and fitness. Her work has appeared in a variety of print (The Washington Post, The Boston Globe, Elysian Magazine) and online (Moms Don’t Have Time To, The Fine Line Magazine, The Quality Edit and more) vehicles. She has also lent her copywriting expertise to fashion and beauty brands ...

Apr 25, 202241 minSeason 1Ep. 26

On Being a Lawyer and Author - Showing Kids All Career Choices with Tiffany Obeng

Tiffany is a lawyer, a wife and a mother of two small children. She is also the premier author and owner of Sugar Cookie Books publishing imprint. Bearing her son’s name, she created Andrew’s Career Day book series to inspire young boys and girls, particularly children of color, to aspire to be anything they want to be! Strongly believing that if they can see it, they can be it, all of the career books feature diverse professionals and small black history lessons. Tiffany's tagline: Helping kids...

Apr 18, 202247 minSeason 1Ep. 25
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