I Mourned My Old Life (Podcast Ep. 4)

Introduction

In this episode of Baby, Bump, & Business, host Bee Trofort-Wilson speaks with Koereyelle, a successful entrepreneur and “now” mother of three, about the challenges and realities of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. They discuss the emotional journey of pregnancy, the lack of maternity leave for entrepreneurs, the identity crisis that can occur after childbirth, and the importance of self-care and support. Koereyelle shares her experiences with postpartum challenges, the lessons learned from her first pregnancy, and how she has adapted her business strategies to accommodate her growing family. The conversation emphasizes the need for grace, flexibility, and the importance of embracing one’s unique motherhood journey.

From Grief to Purpose: A Motherhood Journey Through Photography Baby, Bump, & Business

The heartbreaking yet inspiring story of loss, faith, and resilience—Erica Melissa shares how her darkest moments transformed her approach to photography and motherhood. From losing her first son at just two and a half years old to discovering a rare genetic disease that changed her family’s path, Erica reveals how grief reshaped her purpose in capturing life’s most precious moments. Her journey of healing, trusting God's timing, and turning pain into beauty is a powerful reminder that our stories—no matter how heavy—can inspire others and deepen our craft. This episode is perfect for creative moms, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating grief and growth. Erica’s vulnerability and wisdom serve as a guide for embracing adversity, trusting the process, and creating meaningful art—both in photography and life. Erica Melissa is a destination photographer serving Chicago and South Florida, known for capturing stories with intention and heart. Guided by faith, family, and genuine connection, she’s committed to preserving moments that last a lifetime, even through life's toughest seasons.If you're seeking inspiration on how to turn pain into purpose, find balance in motherhood and business, and hold tight to faith in your journey, this episode is your must-listen. Allow Erica’s story to remind you: your story is your strength, and even in loss, beauty awaits. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on motherhood and entrepreneurship! https://linktr.ee/babybumpandbusiness
  1. From Grief to Purpose: A Motherhood Journey Through Photography
  2. Building a Business While Homeschooling: Teacher to Photographer Journey
  3. Juggling Mom Life and Entrepreneurship
  4. Motherhood + Multiple Creative Businesses: What No One Tells You
  5. Why It’s OK to Pivot: Motherhood, Business & Redefining Success

Key Takeaways

  • Being pregnant can disrupt personal and business plans.
  • Maternity leave is often non-existent for entrepreneurs.
  • Postpartum experiences can lead to identity crises.
  • Every mother’s journey is unique and should be embraced.
  • It’s important to give yourself grace as a new mom.
  • Business strategies may need to evolve with motherhood.
  • Trusting the process is key to managing motherhood and entrepreneurship.

Guest Bio

Koereyelle is a happily married mom of two (soon to be three), Atlanta-based Realtor, and founder of Ellevate Travel, a boutique travel agency dedicated to helping Black women transform their love for travel into profitable businesses. She hosts the award-winning Girl Stop Playin® Podcast, empowering women to “make the money and get the honey.”

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Whether you’re expecting, a new mom, or a seasoned entrepreneur, this podcast will leave you feeling seen, supported, and empowered to thrive in both motherhood and business.

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From Grief to Purpose: A Motherhood Journey Through Photography Baby, Bump, & Business

The heartbreaking yet inspiring story of loss, faith, and resilience—Erica Melissa shares how her darkest moments transformed her approach to photography and motherhood. From losing her first son at just two and a half years old to discovering a rare genetic disease that changed her family’s path, Erica reveals how grief reshaped her purpose in capturing life’s most precious moments. Her journey of healing, trusting God's timing, and turning pain into beauty is a powerful reminder that our stories—no matter how heavy—can inspire others and deepen our craft. This episode is perfect for creative moms, entrepreneurs, and anyone navigating grief and growth. Erica’s vulnerability and wisdom serve as a guide for embracing adversity, trusting the process, and creating meaningful art—both in photography and life. Erica Melissa is a destination photographer serving Chicago and South Florida, known for capturing stories with intention and heart. Guided by faith, family, and genuine connection, she’s committed to preserving moments that last a lifetime, even through life's toughest seasons.If you're seeking inspiration on how to turn pain into purpose, find balance in motherhood and business, and hold tight to faith in your journey, this episode is your must-listen. Allow Erica’s story to remind you: your story is your strength, and even in loss, beauty awaits. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on motherhood and entrepreneurship! https://linktr.ee/babybumpandbusiness
  1. From Grief to Purpose: A Motherhood Journey Through Photography
  2. Building a Business While Homeschooling: Teacher to Photographer Journey
  3. Juggling Mom Life and Entrepreneurship
  4. Motherhood + Multiple Creative Businesses: What No One Tells You
  5. Why It’s OK to Pivot: Motherhood, Business & Redefining Success