Acting like a Mom

This week on Acting Like a Mom, we sit down with the inspiring Anastacia McPherson a dancer, actor, and proud mama whose artistry and authenticity shine on and off the screen.Anastacia’s journey began in San Francisco, where she performed in musical theatre, voiceovers, and national commercials as a young actor. She first captured national attention as a Top 5 finalist on The CW’s Pussycat Dolls Present: The Search for the Next Doll a moment that brought both visibility and vulnerability. At the time, Anastacia hadn’t yet come out publicly (or to her mom) as part of the LGBTQ+ community, and she shares how hiding that part of herself affected her experience on the show and her sense of identity as a young performer in the public eye.In this episode, Anastacia opens up about:💃 Her evolution from musical theatre performer to multifaceted screen artist🏳️‍🌈 Coming to terms with her LGBTQ+ identity and the courage it took to live authentically🎭 How dance and storytelling remain her creative foundation🤱 Balancing motherhood, artistry, and self-expression while raising her six-year-old🌟 Her mission to live and create at her highest capacityWe also get a glimpse into how she continues to define success on her own terms as a performer, a mother, and a woman living in her truth.Listen now for a heartfelt, empowering conversation with Anastacia McPherson proof that embracing who you are can become your greatest source of strength, both on stage and at home.To keep up with Anastacia follow her @anastacia.mcpherson🎧 Available wherever you get your podcasts.If you love this episode, be sure to follow, rate, and review Acting Like a Mom on Spotify, Apple podcast and YouTube it helps us reach more listeners and celebrate even more incredible moms in entertainment.📲 Follow us on Instagram @actinglikeamompod for behind-the-scenes clips, episode updates, and stories from inspiring creative mothers everywhere.

I sit down with my good friend Darryl Wesley a writer, producer, director, and actor who’s basically a one-man creative studio (and somehow still manages to be humble about it).Born and raised on the east side of Detroit, Darryl started out as a basketball champ before trading in the court for Hollywood. After realizing he didn’t want to wait around for opportunity to knock, he decided to build his own door. Writing and producing five sold-out stage plays and landing roles in projects like Clipped on FX and the award winning 'This is us' (which is a story in itself). He wrote on shows 'The Upshaws' starring Mike Epps and 'The Game'. Today, he’s got a full slate of TV, film, and animated projects in the works — all fueled by his drive to tell stories that feel real, human, and universal.But this episode isn’t just about Hollywood hustle it’s about heart.Darryl opens up about what it’s really like in the writers’ room, how he brings his authentic self into creative spaces, and how he’s learned to be a “color in the bigger painting.” We also get real about parenting his passion for supporting his wife through postpartum, the lessons our kids quietly teach us, and the gratitude that keeps it all in perspective.We talk about:- Balancing creative ambition- The moment he decided to stop waiting for permission and create- Supporting your partner through postpartum — and showing up with love- How kids are low-key the best teachers (and sometimes the toughest bosses)- What really happens inside a writers’ room - And why gratitude might just be the real secret to success — on and off screenInstagram:@kingdarrylwesley@actinglikeamompod 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring, down-to-earth chat about love, growth, and the beauty of learning from the people who know us best — our kids.

In this episode, I open up about my first-ever brand trip the excitement, the nerves, the imposter syndrome, and the unexpected reset it gave me as a mom, wife, and creator. From rediscovering who I am outside of motherhood to reconnecting with my husband without the chaos of daily life, this trip reminded me that breaks aren’t luxuries they’re lifelines.Join me as I share personal stories, honest reflections, and research-backed reasons why moms (and couples) need real rest and how to create your own “mini-reset,” even when travel isn’t an option.I talk about:- Facing imposter syndrome and finding community in the creator space- How time away helped me reconnect with my partner and with myself- Why research says breaks and couple time matter for moms- Simple ways to plan your own “mini-reset”If you’re a mom who’s been running on empty, this one’s your reminder: taking a break isn’t selfish ...it’s essential.Follow me on IG at @actinglikeamompod

In this fun and candid episode of Acting Like a Mom, I had the absolute pleasure of collaborating with fellow mom and podcaster Emily Bolt, host of the amazing podcast Mommywood. Emily started her show three years ago when her daughter was just two months old (yes, really!) and has been sharing her journey of motherhood in the entertainment industry ever since.When I came across Mommywood, I knew I had to reach out. And I’m so glad I did! Emily and I clicked instantly, bonding over the shared chaos of podcasting while parenting, and all the wild moments that come with being moms in the biz.In this episode, we talk about:The pressure (and joy) of podcasting as moms 🍼🎤Navigating careers in the entertainment industry while raising kidsWorking with our husbands (who are also in the industry!)Making the big move out of the cityAnd just... so much moreThis one felt like chatting with an old friend, and we know you'll feel the same listening in.📺 Watch or 🎧 listen on both of our podcast pages, and don’t forget to leave a review to support mama-run shows like ours!Connect with Emily:IG:  ⁨@Mommywoodpodcast⁩ 

This episode almost didn’t happen... TWICE. 😩I lost the footage the first time we recorded and it almost broke me. I was so mad, so frustrated, I had to take a break from doing the podcast altogether. But this story? It needed to be told. And I’m so glad we came back to do it again.In this powerful and raw conversation, I sit down with the inspiring Trina Haire:  dancer, esthetician, entrepreneur, cancer survivor, wife, and mom of 3 to talk about her extraordinary journey of resilience, reinvention, and acting like a mom in every sense of the word.From dancing in The Lion King on Broadway to opening her own beauty business during the middle of a pandemic AND while undergoing chemo for Stage 3 breast cancer, Trina's story is a testament to faith, grit, and God’s timing.🎧 In This Episode We Talk About:Trina’s journey from Broadway to beautyBalancing motherhood, marriage, business, and cancerWhat it really takes to build a business from the ground upHow God shows up even in the hardest momentsThe power of perseverance and doing things scared🛍️ Connect with Trina:Instagram: @faceappealbeautyWebsite: https://www.faceappealbeauty.comLeave us a review!If this episode moved you, inspired you, or just made you feel seen, please leave a review and share it with a friend who needs to hear this story.

We're finally back! In this short solo episode, I’m catching you up on what turned my one-week break into an unexpected two-month hiatus (oops 😅) and how that time away helped me press reset, both personally and creatively.From life getting a little too cluttered (think: way too many tabs open in my brain) to a mini podcast rebrand that I’m super excited about. This is a quick check in back to the flow of things ideally not at midnight the night before every episode drops. But, hey, progress over perfection, right?✨ I also want to leave you with a little reminder: we’ve got three whole months left in the year. It’s not too late to rework your goals, find your rhythm, and finish the year strongIn this episode, I talk about:Why the “one-week break” turned into two monthsWhat’s changing (just a little!) with the podcastCreating better systems to avoid last-minute chaosGiving yourself permission to pause, reset, and refocusA gentle push to revisit your 2025 goals — it’s not too late!📌 Let’s Connect!Follow the pod on Instagram: @actinglikeamompodShare your thoughts, DMs are open! 💬💌 If you loved this episode (or even just felt seen), leave a rating + review — it helps more mamas in the industry find us!

Lets get real about something nearly every mom wrestles with — body image after baby. One year postpartum with my second child, the pressure to “bounce back,” the five pounds that won’t budge, and the radical shift in mindset that changed everything.From the lens of motherhood and the entertainment industry, we explore what it really means to love your body in every season and how to recognize the difference between setting healthy goals and self-sabotaging through unrealistic standards.This is for any mom who's ever looked in the mirror and questioned her worth. You're not alone and you're not a before and after photo. You're a masterpiece in motion.🧠 In This Episode, We Cover:The unspoken pressures actors and performers face around weight and appearanceWhat it means to redefine beauty and self-worth after having childrenThe emotional difference between setting goals and self sabotageThe trap of “bouncing back” vs. Bouncing forwardHow to speak to your body — and your kids — with love, not shame💡 Takeaway:You can have goals and still love your body now. You don’t have to shrink to matter. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is stop the mental audition and start embracing the body that’s carried you and your babies through it all.Reading Materials Mentioned:Bible in 52 weeksWoman study bible🎧 Listen Now On:Apple PodcastsSpotifyStitcherWherever you get your podcasts💌 Connect with Us:Follow the show @actinglikeamompod on Instagram

This week on Acting Like a Mom, I sit down with the multi-talented Mesha Kussman: director, choreographer, and founder of Aqualillies, the world’s most glamorous water entertainment company that fuses synchronized swimming and dance. I’ve had the honor of being part of the Aqualillies team for over 12 years, and it was such a joy to dive deep with Mesha in this heartfelt and honest conversation.We talk about:💧 What it was like for Mesha to step back and delegate leadership within Aqualillies when she became pregnant with her first child.🌊 How the discipline and spectacle of synchronized swimming reflect her approach to motherhood and artistry.🕊️ The emotional journey of losing her parents and how that, alongside becoming a mother, reshaped her view on life, creativity, and legacy.🌟 Birthing a creative vision and birthing a child and how both demand surrender, resilience, and reinvention.This episode is a beautiful look into how grief, growth, and motherhood inform artistic leadership and how letting go can be just as powerful as taking control.Connect with Mesha Kussman:🎥 Mesha WebsiteMesha Instagram💦 Aqualillies Website Instagram - @aqualilliesLet’s Stay Connected:Follow the podcast on Instagram: @actinglikeamompodRate, Review, and Subscribe!If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review — it helps more moms (and creatives!) find us.

In this quick solo episode  I am  having the post audition blues. Were you can’t shake the coulda woulda shoulda. It made me think of the comparison in both motherhood and the entertainment industry. Whether it's the scroll of "perfect moms" on social media or the sting of seeing another actor book the role you wanted, comparison can quietly rob us of the joy we've worked so hard to earn.In This Episode, We Explore:  Why comparison is so common (and dangerous) in both motherhood and acting  The mental and emotional toll of chasing perfection in two high-pressure roles  Real stories and moments of my self doubt. If You Enjoyed This Episode:  Follow or subscribe to Acting Like a Mom wherever you listen  Leave a review—it helps other moms and creatives find us!  Share this episode with a fellow mom or actor who needs this reminderFollow me on IG: @actinglikeamompodLINKS:Amazon Storefront

In this episode of Acting Like a Mom, I sit down with the radiant and magnetic Danielle Ruiz : model, actor, longtime host of the World Poker Tour, and mom of two.Danielle brings her signature charm, carefree spirit, and wisdom to our conversation, and I can honestly say this interview was so much fun. She reminded me (and maybe will remind you too!) that motherhood doesn’t always have to be stressful if you let it flow.We talk about how she’s navigated her career in entertainment for over a decade while raising her children in a way that feels unconventional, yet deeply intentional. From the red carpet to bedtime routines, Danielle keeps it real, centered, and full of love.In this episode, we cover:Her 14-year journey as a host on the World Poker TourBalancing modeling, acting, and mom lifeHow “going with the flow” became her motherhood mantraCreating a home that prioritizes connection, and joyWhy intentional parenting doesn’t have to look traditionalWhether you're a mom in the industry or just need a reminder to breathe and trust your instincts, this conversation is for you.✨ Listen now for a dose of authenticity, laughter, and inspiration from one of the coolest moms in entertainment.🎧 Subscribe & Follow:Don’t miss future episodes. Hit that follow button and leave a review if you enjoyed this one!📲 Let’s Connect:Instagram: @ActingLikeamompodGuest: @DanielleRuiz#ActingLikeAMom #DanielleRuiz #MomsInEntertainment #IntentionalParenting #WorkingMoms #GoWithTheFlow #PodcastForMoms

The industry feels quiet. Auditions are slower, projects are paused, and a lot of us arewondering, “What now?” In this episode, I lean into the stillness. Not as failure, but as a vital part of the creative rhythm.Whether you're a working actor, a storyteller, or a behind-the-scenes creative balancing motherhood, this episode is your reminder that rest is not a setback and you are not alone. We explore practical ways to stay grounded and creative, even when the calendar is thin.We also touch on my growing fears around AI and the shift in the industry while also sharing how to stay present.Todays Topics:Why slow seasons aren't wasted seasonsCreative ways to stay engaged without burning outA mindset shift for redefining “progress”How to connect with other moms in the biz right now🎧 Listen If You’re:A creative mom feeling unmotivated or anxious about industry shiftsWondering what to focus on between gigs or during strike-like lullsCurious about how to keep showing up for your creativityFeeling weird about AI and where the biz is going (you’re not alone)📲 Let’s Connect:Loved this episode? Share/Follow/commentFollow@actinglikeamompod on Instagram or using hashtag #ActingLikeAMom.

She was my very first guest and now she’s back! Actress, mama, and now co-founder, Aylya Marzolf Mai joins me for a full-circle moment on Acting Like a Mom. Since that first episode, we’ve both had babies (just three days apart!) and embarked on a brand new journey: launching our own maternity and beyond talent division, Love Mamas.In this episode, we get real about what it’s been like transitioning from talent to agents why we started the agency, what we’ve learned, and how it's helped us not only support other women in the industry but also become better talent ourselves. We’re on a mission to make motherhood and a Hollywood career coexist.We also get personal talking about raising two kids, the challenges of juggling it all, and why this work is so close to our hearts.Whether you’re a mom in the industry or just curious about what it really takes to balance diapers and call sheets, this one’s for you.In This Episode We Talk About:Why we created Love Mamas and what makes it differentHow becoming agents has changed how we show up as talentWhat we wish more people knew about working while pregnant/postpartumOur experience raising two kids while running a companyThe power of supporting women through every phase of motherhoodTune in to hear how we’re reshaping what it means to be a working mom in Hollywood.Aylya IG: @FreshFrecklesIf this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow working mama or someone in the industry who needs to hear it. And don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow us on Instagram @actinglikeamompod and @LovetalentMamas to be part of this growing community. Let’s keep rewriting the narrative.

What do running shoes, mom life, and grit have in common? A whole lot more than you think. In this episode, I’m taking you mile by mile through my first ever half marathon...physically exhausting, emotionally eye opening, and surprisingly healing.From the early morning training runs squeezed in before breakfast duty, to the mental walls I hit (and climbed over) at mile 10, I’m sharing what running 13.1 miles taught me—not just about endurance, but about believing in myself again.💬 In this episode, I talk about:Why I signed up for a half marathon in the middle of total life chaosThe parallels between motherhood and marathon trainingThe voice in my head that almost made me quit—and how I silenced itHow finishing the race changed the way I show up for myself💡 Whether you’ve never laced up a pair of running shoes or you’ve hit your own version of “mile 10,” this episode is your reminder that you are stronger than you think—and that quitting on yourself is never the only option.📌 Mentioned in this episode:My go-to training " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">playlistFavorite mom-friendly running gearHow to start running when you feel like you’re not a “runner”🧡 Let’s connect!If this episode hit home, share it with a friend or tag me on IG @actinglikeamompod with your biggest takeaway. And if you’ve ever run (or thought about running) a race, I want to hear your story.—📝 Rate & Review:Loving the show? Drop a review—it helps other mamas find their strength too.🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Babies, Braids & Breaking the Mold with Dot Saint FleurIn this inspiring episode of Acting Like a Mom, we sit down with the multi-talented Dot Saint Fleur; an actress, entrepreneur, devoted mom, and wife. She is rewriting the script for what motherhood in the entertainment industry looks like.Dot gets real about:✨ Creating her own pilot and carving space for herself in the industry👵🏽 Moving her mom in to build a “daycare they trust” for her little one😬 How people project their fears onto pregnant actors—wondering if it’s the end of their careers⏳ Why time management is her secret weapon for balancing auditions, business, and baby 💇🏽‍♀️ Running a successful hair braiding business while chasing her acting dreamsThis episode is a must-listen for any mama navigating creative ambition, family life, and entrepreneurship. Dot’s honesty, humor, and hustle will leave you feeling empowered and ready to own your story—on and off the stage.🔗 Listen now on [Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube]💬 Let us know what you think and follow us on Instagram @ActingLikeAMomPod for behind-the-scenes moments and more mom-to-mom real talk.This episode was produced by: @LondonOutlaw

In this I open up about my first full year as a mother of two. No filters, no scripts, just real talk. From navigating the trenches of postpartum depression to embracing perspective shifts (and a healthy dose of delulu thinking), I share the messy, magical, and transformative journey I’ve been on.Being a mom in this industry comes with its own set of challenges, and this past year tested every part of me. But I also found new parts…resilience, humor, softness, and surprisingly joy. If you're a parent, an artist, or someone trying to do both, this one's for you.In This Episode, I Talk About:What motherhood really looked like this year (the good, the hard, and the in-between)How I pulled myself out of depression—with support, tools, and mindset shiftsThe power of “delulu” thinking (and why it might not be such a bad thing)The small wins that meant everythingWhy I finally feel like I’m almost on the other side of the hillResources & Mentions:This book helped me set up my goals and break it down. The 12 week year book:https://amzn.to/3Zelj5mFollow me on Instagram: @actinglikeamompodLet’s Connect:💬 Leave a review and share your favorite takeaway🎧 Subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes📢 Tag me when you’re listening—I'd love to shout you out!

This highly requested episode is a special one! We have our first Dad guest and who else than my super handsome husband😍, actor Jordan Hubbard, for a honest conversation about what it’s really like to raise kids while navigating the unpredictable world of the entertainment industry. Together, we open up about the real struggles—from trying to memorize lines with a baby crying in the next room to having side hustles that work for us and some that dont ehhhh lol We talk about how lack of sleep impacted our work and our relationship, and how we’ve found ways to support each other through it all.Whether you're an actor, a parent, or both, this episode is a reminder that even in chaos, teamwork and love can pull you through.In This Episode, We Cover:How family life can shake up your work routine.The impact of sleep deprivation and the effects of your craftHow we neglected our relationship and we reconnectedTips that helped us get some sanityDon’t Forget to:💬 Share this episode with a fellow parent in the biz⭐ Leave a rating & review—it helps more than you know📲 Follow us on Instagram @actinglikeamompod 

Welcome back to Acting Like a Mom! It’s Season 2, and your host is officially out of the pregnancy fog and into toddler territory — and yes, still working in entertainment while figuring it all out. 🙃In this first episode of the new season, I’m giving you a real, raw, and honest update on what life has looked like since Season 1 — which, if you remember, I recorded while pregnant (emotional rollercoaster, anyone?). Now with a one & two-year-old in tow, I’m back behind the mic, not just surviving but thriving... okay, sometimes thriving.Tune in to hear:What it’s really been like juggling motherhood and a career in the industryThe unexpected lessons from the past yearWhat I wish I’d known (and what I’m still figuring out)A message of hope for every mom in the trenches — you are not aloneWhether you're on set, on a Zoom audition with a baby on your hip, or just trying to make it through nap time, this one’s for you. You can do this — and I’m right here with you.🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share with a fellow mom in the biz!

Welcome to the season Finale of the Acting Like a Mom podcast. It’s a short and sweet one. It only felt right to end it because this is the only episode I have left with my baby bump, and next week is Christmas so the timing felt right. I am so grateful for all the guests that came on without knowing what to expect ya’ll are the real MVP’s. To everyone who watched, listened, shared the podcast, thanks for supporting this growing community. In this final episode we dive deep into the world of curls, confidence, and creating a space for natural beauty. Our guest is none other than Bianca Renee, a powerhouse in the curly hair community and one of the most influential voices when it comes to embracing your natural texture. But that’s not all—she also shares her experiences balancing motherhood with building her brand, all while staying true to herself. Whether you're a curl enthusiast, a busy mom, or simply looking for some hair inspiration, you won’t want to miss this conversation! Biancas IG: @Mzbiancarenee You can watch the full video on YouTube: Acting like a mom podcast  Remember to follow us on IG @actinglikeamompod

Currently shooting from my hotel room cause mama is out of town working...yipiee. Unfortunately I left a piece of my breast pump at home, can we say Mastitis 😭😅. Amazon to the rescue!Will be delivering a same day hand pump....ohhh motherhood. Anywho I had a different episode planned for this week but I had such a crazy overwhelming, overstimulated week and I overcame it and wanted to share some things I have learned along the way.

This episode was kinda hard to post because I knew I was experiencing some sort of depression during this time of my pregnancy, even writing that out is hard. But That would defeat the whole purpose of this podcast, to build a community of moms by sharing these often untold stories. So here I am diving into my own struggles. Remember to Subscribe, comment and like. All interaction helps the podcast spread out to people outside of my visibility. IG:Actinglikeamompod

Sarah Scott- Actress/ Intimacy Coordinator  I was looking forward to having Sarah on the show and she did not disappoint! I actually reached out to her a while back when I was considering moving out of the city and making the commute for work. So glad I did because here I am moved out of the city and thriving… at least enjoying having space for the family. We talk about this and so much more.  You may have seen her guest starring on shows such as The Orville, Castle, Bones, or True Blood - and she notably portrayed Courtney Love in the feature film Soaked In Bleach.  Five years ago Sarah hit the ground running as one of the pioneer intimacy coordinators in the industry and has been working ever since. Her credits include all four seasons of Hacks - which just won the Emmy for Best Comedy Series, as well as HBO’s Winning Time, Good Girls on NBC, the Netflix films You People and Rebel Moon, the film Lonely Planet as well as the Taylor Sheridan series 1923 and she’s currently in production on The Madison. Fun fact: Sarah was one of the original silhouette dancers in the famous Apple iPod campaigns. IG: That SarahScott  https://www.sarahscottic.com Like, rate, follow Please & Thank you

Work, work, work work work!!! It’s time to get that work in.  Let’s be honest that is one of the most nerve wracking part about being pregnant in this industry, wondering what opportunities there are when you are pregnant?  Don’t fear there is work but it just takes a while to get there, just gotta be patient. I briefly discuss my experience working while pregnant. IG: @Actinglikeamompod Watch the full video on YouTube: Acting like a mom podcast Dont forget Subscribe, like, share. It helps get the word out to other mamas out there

Ayla Marzolf, Actor, Model, Director, Writer @FreshFreckles We couldn’t have had a better first guest! Aylya is radiant and resilient beautiful human inside and out. This episode explorers motherhood after divorce and proves that you can still have success. During the recording of this episode, she was pregnant with her second child, but came with knowledge from her first experience in how to maneuver through the industry. We also touch on: -The power of your voice when you have a homebirth. -Providing as a single mother -Building a village -Maternity leave as an artist -Domestic Violence ** Trigger warning** Please be sure to share and review!! Watch Full episode on YouTube Ig:Actinglikeamompod

I felt like it would be rude to not introduce myself, so here we go!

Welcome to the Acting Like a Mom podcast where we all about how it is to navigate and balance motherhood in the entertainment industry.