Baby, Bump, & Business

Introduction

In this inspiring episode of Baby Bump and Business, host Bee chats with Elsie Kibue-Ngare, a Kenyan-British photographer, about the real challenges and rewards of juggling motherhood with a creative career. They dive into topics every mompreneur can relate to: time management, setting boundaries, and building a supportive community.

Elsie opens up about her journey through university as a mother, transitioning to freelance photography, and navigating career changes post-COVID. She shares practical tips on saying no, prioritizing what matters, and leaning on a network of fellow moms and creatives for support.

If you’re a parent pursuing your passions or curious about balancing work, motherhood, and creativity, this episode is packed with advice, motivation, and real-life stories you won’t want to miss.

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Unexpected Disruption That Changed My Business and Motherhood Forever – Baby, Bump, & Business

Most creative moms juggle building a business and nurturing their children—without losing themselves along the way. Anj Olson, a master photographer and mother of three, shares how she navigates the chaos with honesty, humor, and powerful lessons you need to hear. From a whirlwind pregnancy to running a thriving photography studio right in her home, her story reveals the real cost—emotionally and professionally—and how she's intentionally shaping a life where motherhood and entrepreneurship thrive side by side. In this episode, Anj strips back the glam and gives a raw look into the messy middle of motherhood, career, and self-discovery. She opens up about mourning her old self, finding joy in the chaos, and creating a business that her kids can admire and be proud of. You'll discover how she set boundaries that honor her time with her family, practical tips for balancing travel and work commitments, and ways to stay connected to your purpose when life feels overwhelming. We break down: how to navigate postpartum emotions without guilt, the importance of setting boundaries in your business, and practical strategies for creating a supportive village—even when it feels impossible. Anj shares her journey from a mom who thought she could do it all to someone who learned that true balance is about intentionality, grace, and tough choices. This episode offers a roadmap for creative moms ready to reclaim their time, their art, and their sanity—without sacrificing what matters most. If you're a creative mom striving to manage the demands of family and business without burnout, this episode is your new blueprint. Anj's vulnerability and expertise will inspire you to redefine success on your own terms and embrace the beautiful mess of motherhood while building a life you love.

1. Unexpected Disruption That Changed My Business and Motherhood Forever 41:29
2. Letting Go of Control in Motherhood & Business 26:17
3. Built a Multi-Industry Business While Navigating Motherhood 49:31
4. I Left My Nike Job With Kids at Home — Now I Shoot NBA Stars 48:10
5. Building A Family Legacy In Photography 27:21

Key Takeaways

• Balancing motherhood and a creative career is challenging.
• Having a calendar helps manage time effectively.
• Pursuing education while being a parent requires determination.
• Freelancing can be difficult with young children.
• Setting boundaries is essential for mental health.
• Community support is crucial for creative moms.
• It’s important to celebrate each other’s successes.
• Navigating motherhood and career requires constant learning.

Guest Bio

Elsie Kibue-Ngare is a Kenyan-British photographer based in London, UK. Her focus is on portraiture, sports, documentary-style photography and events. She has completed various assignments, and her work has been published in numerous print and online publications, including The BBC, The Scotsman, The Times, The Guardian, and Culture Trip. In addition to her photography work, Elsie is a co-founder of The African Photobook.

Resources

• Instagram
• Website

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