Introductions and background @ 0:00
Emily Bolt and Emily Barth Isler introduce themselves and discuss their backgrounds. Emily Barth Isler shares that she grew up in Maryland, went to college in Connecticut, and then moved to New York City with her husband before having two children. They later decided to move the family to Los Angeles about 5 years ago.
Reflections on parenting and childhood @ 3:48
The two Emilys discuss the challenges of parenting and how perspectives on their children's ages and stages of life have shifted over time. They reflect on the impact of the pandemic on their kids' development and the difficulty of untangling that from other factors.
Emily Barth Isler's career transition @ 8:08
Emily Barth Isler shares her journey from pursuing acting early in her career to eventually transitioning to becoming a writer. She discusses the fear and hesitation she felt about making that change, as well as the privilege and support that enabled her to take that leap.
The realities of being a writer @ 17:01
Emily Barth Isler provides an in-depth look at the publishing industry, including the long timelines involved in getting a book from concept to publication, the need to constantly be writing new material, and the challenges of balancing creativity with the business side of being an author.
The importance of acknowledging privilege @ 25:28
Emily Barth Isler emphasizes the significant role that privilege and access to resources play in enabling creative pursuits. She discusses the compromises and barriers faced by those without the same level of support, and her desire to help create more equitable opportunities for underrepresented voices.
Finding balance and fulfillment @ 1:04:08
Emily Barth Isler shares the activities and habits that have become "life savers" for her, including the use of audiobooks and the mental benefits she derives from regular lap swimming. She reflects on how these practices have helped her find balance and fulfillment in her writing career and personal life.