Podcast interview with dancer/actress Tyne Stecklein about balancing motherhood and career in the entertainment industry.
Tyne's Art
Key Takeaways
- Tyne recently had her third child (first daughter) and is balancing life with 3 kids under 6
- She has continued working in dance/acting throughout pregnancies and postpartum periods
- Creativity and artistic outlets are crucial for her mental health and sense of self as a mom
- Flexibility and adaptability are key for managing an entertainment career with young kids
Recent Birth and Family Update
- Had daughter Essence on December 13th, joining sons Brecken (6) and Ocean (3.5)
- Was surprised to have a girl after assuming it would be another boy
- Found not knowing the gender added an exciting element of surprise
- Named baby about an hour before leaving hospital after getting to know her
Balancing Career and Motherhood
- Continued working on dance/acting jobs during pregnancies, sometimes not disclosing pregnancy
- Grateful for understanding from female choreographers who are also moms
- Teaches dance conventions as steady work between acting/dancing gigs
- Husband also works in entertainment (dance, music, home remodeling)
- Challenging to have two self-employed parents, but allows flexibility
Postpartum Experience and Self-Care
- Third pregnancy/delivery was physically easiest but early weeks were chaotic due to wildfires
- Evacuated with newborn and family, stayed in 8 different places over 2.5 weeks
- Trying to incorporate older kids with baby, realizing importance of one-on-one time
- Meditation and creative outlets like painting help with mental health
- Savoring newborn snuggles as form of self-care currently
Career Impact of Motherhood
- Initially wanted to reach certain acting milestones before starting family
- Chose starting family over Broadway opportunity, felt it was right timing
- Kids have expanded emotional range/life experience to draw from as performer
- Auditioning for family commercials together during pandemic
- Exposing kids to parents' work, but not pushing them into entertainment
Advice for Artist Parents
- Make time for creative pursuits to stay connected to self
- Having kids adds depth to art rather than limiting it
- Be adaptable with schedules/routines, especially with multiple kids
- Zip-up swaddles and two-way zip onesies are lifesavers for baby care