In this compelling episode, Laura engages in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with Kristina Kuzmic, a mom of three who transitioned from waiting tables to becoming a successful content creator, comedian, and author. Kristina shares her journey from creating cooking videos to being discovered by Oprah, the challenges she faced with authenticity in the media, and her pivotal decision to focus on real, relatable content. The discussion delves into Kristina's personal and professional hurdles, her advice for content creators, and her latest book that addresses her son's mental health struggles. Kristina also discusses her evolution from a control-focused parenting style to one centered on connection and curiosity, emphasizing the importance of self-care, the pitfalls of seeking external approval, and practical advice for balancing parenting with a career. Additionally, she highlights the significance of support groups for children and the need for early mental health education.
Introduction to Kristina (00:00:00 - 00:00:44)
Kristina’s background and journey into content creation.
Her initial discovery by Oprah and the resulting pressures.
Authenticity and Media Pressure (00:00:44 - 00:04:09)
Struggles with media expectations versus authentic self.
Oprah’s advice on authenticity and dealing with TV producers.
Transition to making humorous, relatable parenting videos.
Navigating a Content Creation Career (00:04:09 - 00:06:29)
Transition from waiting tables to full-time content creation.
Balancing media pressures and authenticity.
Creating a mission statement to stay focused.
Impact of the Pandemic on Career (00:06:29 - 00:07:37)
The pandemic’s effect on her book tour and comedy shows.
Adapting to career disruptions.
Advice for New Content Creators (00:07:37 - 00:09:29)
Kristina’s approach to content creation.
Handling algorithm changes and focusing on mental health.
Maintaining Mental Health and Authenticity (00:09:29 - 00:11:01)
Managing the ups and downs of social media.
Importance of self-kindness and authenticity.
Kristina’s Latest Book on Mental Health (00:11:01 - 00:17:34)
Inspiration from her son’s mental health struggles.
Collaborative writing process with her son.
Control vs. Connection (00:18:08 - 00:18:26)
Christina’s realization about choosing connection over control in parenting.
Curiosity Over Assumption (00:18:26 - 00:19:02)
Importance of approaching children with curiosity.
Parenting with Fear (00:19:02 - 00:19:52)
Negative impacts of fear-based parenting.
Being a calm and supportive parent.
Listening vs. Advising (00:20:24 - 00:21:30)
The value of asking children if they want advice or just to be heard.
Self-Care and the Myth of Selflessness (00:21:49 - 00:23:12)
Necessity of prioritizing self-care.
The Illusion of Fixing Everything (00:24:09 - 00:24:53)
Pressure parents feel to fix everything for their children.
Support Groups and Mental Health (00:25:22 - 00:26:58)
Benefits of support groups and early mental health education.
Balancing Career and Parenting (00:28:42 - 00:30:00)
Kristina’s perspective on managing dual roles without guilt.
Living for Self-Approval (00:31:39 - 00:32:03)
Importance of personal happiness over external approval.
Dropping Unnecessary Suitcases (00:33:00 - 00:34:07)
Letting go of negative judgments and pressures.
"People don't want to see a perfect mom in a perfect kitchen because most of us know that it's fake. Nobody has a perfect life."
"The harder the day, the kinder I have to be to myself."
: "I have a choice to make, whether I want to control or connect. I cannot do both."
"When a parent comes from a place of fear, the kid has nobody steady now because you're shaken up."
"I will not feel guilty for choosing to have a career that makes me fuller and makes me a better human and support system for my kids."
"Do not live for other people's approval. When someone is judging you, they're handing you their suitcase."
Book:
"I Can Fix This and Other Lies I Told Myself While Parenting My Struggling Child" by Kristina Kuzmic
https://www.amazon.com/Can-Fix-This-Parenting-Struggling-ebook/dp/B0CCNBLGBT
Programs:
Tap Outs: A virtual support group for children starting at the age of four, offering sessions to help them deal with mental health challenges.
Website: https://kristinakuzmic.com/
Connect with Kristina Kuzmic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinakuzmic/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KristinaKuzmic
Connect with Laura Berens:
WEBSITE STORE: www.loveandfit.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itslauraberens/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itslauraberens/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-berens-b094897/
Kristina is currently on a 23-city book tour. For more details on tour dates and locations, visit her website.
Thank you for tuning in! We hope you found this episode both enlightening and empowering. Stay connected with us for more engaging discussions and valuable insights.