Introduction

In this episode of Baby, Bump, & Business, host Bee Trofort-Wilson speaks with Ashani Roberts, a creative artist navigating the challenges of pregnancy while managing her entrepreneurial career. They discuss the physical and mental adjustments required during pregnancy, the importance of finding balance between work and personal life, and the unique challenges faced by creative entrepreneurs. Ashani shares her experiences, including the unexpected realities of pregnancy, the need for support from partners, and the importance of maintaining a sense of humor throughout the journey. The conversation highlights the strength and resilience of women as they navigate motherhood and entrepreneurship.

What Infertility, Miscarriage, and Burnout Taught Me About Slowing Down Baby, Bump, & Business

Motherhood does not have to kill your creative career. Stephanie Brown shows how she built an art practice, a coaching business, and a healthier relationship with success without burning herself out. If you are a creative mom, entrepreneur, or high-achiever trying to make room for a baby and a brand, this conversation will hit close to home. Bee welcomes Atlanta-based photographer and interdisciplinary artist Stephanie Brown, whose work spans interactive installation art, education, and creative business coaching. Stephanie opens up about moving beyond traditional photography, designing art people can physically engage with, and using psychology, education theory, and play to create work that sticks. But the conversation goes far deeper than art. You will hear how Stephanie financed her practice with project management and operations work, why she shifted from “I have to make the sale” to building sustainable revenue through speaking and coaching, and how a fertility check, family loss, and a miscarriage changed the way she thought about timing, planning, and motherhood. She also breaks down the hard truth behind workaholism, the panic attack that forced her to slow down, and the unlearning required when your self-worth has always been tied to productivity. We break down: – how Stephanie turned her background in operations into a service arm that funds her art – why she chose an interdisciplinary path and what interactive installation adds to her work – the reality of conceiving while juggling remote work, a business, and emotional burnout – how she redefined planning, downtime, and asking for help – what it really takes to protect your energy while building a life and business around a child Stephanie also gets real about parenting a toddler while running a business, navigating childcare costs, and creating a family rhythm that supports both her son and her ambitions. Her perspective is a reminder that the goal is not to do everything perfectly – it is to build a life that can hold your creativity, your family, and your capacity. Essential listening if you are trying to grow a business, protect your peace, and figure out how to become a parent without disappearing in the process. Stephanie Brown is an Atlanta-based photographer and interactive installation artist, as well as the host of In Between Artists, a podcast focused on sustainable creative careers. Her work explores identity, access, and the lived experience of people of African descent, while her coaching helps creatives build strategic, sustainable businesses. Links to Stephanie: http://www.instagram.com/createdbrown http://www.instagram.com/stephaniesquared_ http://www.stephaniebphotos.com http://www.stephaniesquared.com
  1. What Infertility, Miscarriage, and Burnout Taught Me About Slowing Down
  2. Survived Pregnancy Loss, Postpartum Depression & Built a Thriving Business
  3. The Hidden Cost of Business
  4. Unexpected Disruption That Changed My Business and Motherhood Forever
  5. Letting Go of Control in Motherhood & Business

Key Takeaways

  • Pregnancy brings unexpected challenges and fatigue.
  • It’s important to accept changes in independence during pregnancy.
  • Finding balance between work and personal life is crucial.
  • Mental acceptance of pregnancy changes can take time.
  • Redirecting energy to creative outlets can be beneficial.
  • Humor can help navigate the challenges of pregnancy.

Guest Bio

Ashani Roberts is a dynamic creative artist from Miami, Florida, recognized for her work in acting, writing, producing, and visual art. In addition to bringing bold, authentic stories to life on screen and canvas, she is passionate about helping others navigate the entertainment industry through actor coaching and mentorship. With a deep commitment to both creativity and community, Ashani empowers emerging talent while continuing to expand her own artistic journey.

Resources

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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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What Infertility, Miscarriage, and Burnout Taught Me About Slowing Down Baby, Bump, & Business

Motherhood does not have to kill your creative career. Stephanie Brown shows how she built an art practice, a coaching business, and a healthier relationship with success without burning herself out. If you are a creative mom, entrepreneur, or high-achiever trying to make room for a baby and a brand, this conversation will hit close to home. Bee welcomes Atlanta-based photographer and interdisciplinary artist Stephanie Brown, whose work spans interactive installation art, education, and creative business coaching. Stephanie opens up about moving beyond traditional photography, designing art people can physically engage with, and using psychology, education theory, and play to create work that sticks. But the conversation goes far deeper than art. You will hear how Stephanie financed her practice with project management and operations work, why she shifted from “I have to make the sale” to building sustainable revenue through speaking and coaching, and how a fertility check, family loss, and a miscarriage changed the way she thought about timing, planning, and motherhood. She also breaks down the hard truth behind workaholism, the panic attack that forced her to slow down, and the unlearning required when your self-worth has always been tied to productivity. We break down: – how Stephanie turned her background in operations into a service arm that funds her art – why she chose an interdisciplinary path and what interactive installation adds to her work – the reality of conceiving while juggling remote work, a business, and emotional burnout – how she redefined planning, downtime, and asking for help – what it really takes to protect your energy while building a life and business around a child Stephanie also gets real about parenting a toddler while running a business, navigating childcare costs, and creating a family rhythm that supports both her son and her ambitions. Her perspective is a reminder that the goal is not to do everything perfectly – it is to build a life that can hold your creativity, your family, and your capacity. Essential listening if you are trying to grow a business, protect your peace, and figure out how to become a parent without disappearing in the process. Stephanie Brown is an Atlanta-based photographer and interactive installation artist, as well as the host of In Between Artists, a podcast focused on sustainable creative careers. Her work explores identity, access, and the lived experience of people of African descent, while her coaching helps creatives build strategic, sustainable businesses. Links to Stephanie: www.instagram.com/createdbrown www.instagram.com/stephaniesquared_ www.stephaniebphotos.com www.stephaniesquared.com
  1. What Infertility, Miscarriage, and Burnout Taught Me About Slowing Down
  2. Survived Pregnancy Loss, Postpartum Depression & Built a Thriving Business
  3. The Hidden Cost of Business
  4. Unexpected Disruption That Changed My Business and Motherhood Forever
  5. Letting Go of Control in Motherhood & Business