Balancing Motherhood and a Career in Sports (Podcast Ep. 8)

Introduction

In this conversation, Bee and NFL Photographer Kara Durrette discuss the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood with a demanding career in sports photography. They explore the emotional journey of pregnancy, the impact of COVID-19, and the importance of support systems for women in the industry. Kara shares her personal experiences, including navigating maternity leave, dealing with loss, and the adjustments required when transitioning to being a mother of two. The conversation emphasizes the need for women to pursue their dreams while also embracing their roles as mothers, highlighting the importance of self-identity and support from family and peers.

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

  • Don’t stop chasing your dream just because your life is evolving.
  • You can be a hot mess and a good mom.
  • Make the moments that you’re there matter.
  • Your title is borrowed; don’t make it your entire self.
  • You can be more than one thing.

Guest Bio

Kara Durrette is a working mother with two boys – nine and four. She work full-time at their school in Raleigh, NC, as a marketing professional and also works on the NFL Focus team as a professional sports photographer. She has spent 12 seasons covering the NFL, including one “normal” season pregnant and the Covid season pregnant!

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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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