VIEW RECORDING: https://fathom.video/calls/128992166
Flexible work-life balance @ 0:00
Emily and Katie discuss the challenges and benefits of having flexible schedules as creative professionals with families. They share how their husbands' careers in writing and directing have allowed for a more fluid work-life integration, though it requires constant coordination and adaptation.
Maintaining creativity and focus @ 27:29
Both Emily and Katie discuss the challenges of maintaining creative focus and productivity after having a child. They share strategies like working in separate environments and setting aside dedicated writing time, while also acknowledging the persistent "mental load" of parenthood that can be difficult to fully disengage from.
Transitioning to parenthood @ 32:41
Katie reflects on the decision to have a child, noting the difficulty of finding the "right" time given the unpredictability of creative careers. She shares how a conversation with a friend helped her realize there is no perfect moment, and that having a child is a deliberate choice rather than waiting for the stars to align.
Navigating the entertainment industry as parents @ 32:41
Katie describes the ups and downs of trying to establish her directing career while also starting a family, including the uncertainty of project development and the need to be flexible with travel and schedules. They discuss the unique challenges faced by creative professionals in balancing their careers and family life.
Recap and closing thoughts @ 38:17
The conversation concludes with Emily and Katie reflecting on the overall experience of parenthood and the importance of being adaptable and making deliberate choices, rather than waiting for the "perfect" time to have a child.
katie locke obrien - August 03
VIEW RECORDING: https://fathom.video/calls/128994055
Balancing career and motherhood @ 0:00
Katie discusses the challenges of navigating her creative career as a director while also being a mother. She shares how having her son Julian has impacted her work, both positively and negatively, as she tries to find the right balance between her professional and personal life. Katie notes that being a "mom who's also creative is just a constant exercise in feeling bad about whichever thing you're not doing."
Embracing flexibility and support @ 10:30
Katie explains how the increased resources and flexibility from her success have helped, but also introduced new challenges, as she and her husband David navigate decisions around travel, childcare, and family commitments. She emphasizes the importance of being open about her needs as a working parent, and how the industry is becoming more accommodating and supportive of parents, especially mothers, behind the camera.
Developing the "Dick Bunny" project @ 15:15
Katie describes her passion for the magical realism comedy series "Dick Bunny", which explores postpartum anxiety and the isolation of new motherhood through a surreal, darkly humorous lens. She discusses the lengthy process of developing the project, assembling the talented cast and crew, and her desire to share this unique perspective on the motherhood experience with audiences.
Lifesavers and advice @ 23:14
Katie shares her current "lifesavers" - coffee and durable clothing labels - as well as the importance of finding practical solutions to the everyday challenges of parenting. She emphasizes the value of these small but impactful tools that help make life a bit easier amidst the chaos.
