Shows
Creative Moms FocusThe Creative Reset: Finding Inspiration When Life is OverwhelmingFeeling burned out and struggling to find your creative spark again? You’re not alone. In this episode of Creative Moms Focus, Samantha and Jessica open up about the realities of burnout as photographers — and the intentional resets that helped them reconnect with their creativity. They share personal stories, from taking a painting class at a local arts center to stepping out of their comfort zones at a retreat (including one surprising role behind the camera!). You’ll hear how they recognized the warning signs of burnout—like procrastination, lack of inspiration while editing, and exhaustion after photosho...
2025-08-2623 minCreative Moms FocusSummer Hustle: Juggling Self-Employment and Full-Time ParentingSummer break is almost here—and if you're a working mom, you know that means it's time to get intentional. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on how we’re planning to balance business and family over the next few months. We’re sharing: What vacations we’ve booked (and what we’re most looking forward to) The childcare strategies that are keeping us sane How we’re setting expectations with clients and ourselves The boundaries we’re putting in place to protect...
2025-06-0308 minCreative Moms FocusClient Wardrobe 101: The In's and Out's of Offering Client ClosetsWant to offer an elevated, full-service experience that clients rave about? In this episode, we dive into one of the most powerful ways to elevate your client experience as a photographer: offering a curated wardrobe for your clients. This full-service touch not only enhances your brand but creates a stress-free, luxurious experience for your clients—so they can focus on what matters most: capturing memories with their loved ones. We break down how to curate the perfect client closet, where to find stylish and timeless pieces, and how to choose items that flatter all body types—including thou...
2025-05-2719 minCreative Moms FocusHow To Choose Between Studio and In-Home SessionsIn this episode of Creative Moms Focus, we dive into a question every photographer faces: studio or in-home shoot? Whether you're capturing newborns, families, or lifestyle portraits, the choice of location can make all the difference—for both the client experience and the final images. We break down the pros and cons of shooting in a controlled studio environment versus the intimate, personalized setting of a client’s home. From lighting logistics to client comfort, you'll get expert tips to help you educate your clients and ensure beautiful results no matter the setting. 🔍 Topics Covered: ...
2025-05-2013 minCreative Moms FocusThe True Cost of Undervaluing Your WorkIn this episode, we’re diving into one of the most crucial topics for any photographer: how to price your photography services. Whether you're just entering the portrait photography industry or looking to refine your pricing strategy, this conversation is packed with practical advice and encouragement. Pricing your work too low can actually hurt your confidence, undermine your value, and make long-term success and sustainability much harder to achieve—we’re here to help you avoid that. We share the challenges we faced when setting our own photography prices and highlight why understanding your cost of doing busines...
2025-05-1323 minCreative Moms FocusThriving in Transition: Adapting to the Shifting Economic LandscapeFeeling the pressure to pivot your photography business in today’s economy? You’re not alone. In this episode of Creative Moms Focus, we’re diving into a conversation every photographer needs right now: how to adjust your services to stay competitive without lowering your value or compromising your quality. We’ll walk through practical strategies to help you adapt your offerings while maintaining your creative integrity. From offering shorter sessions, digital packages, à-la-carte options, or flexible collections, we’re exploring how to create space for client needs—without sacrificing profitability. You’ll also learn why it’s essent...
2025-05-0610 minCreative Moms FocusHair, Makeup & the Client Experience: Elevating Your Sessions with EaseIn this episode of Creative Moms Focus, we’re diving into a game-changing part of your client experience—professional hair and makeup services. Whether you're including it in your session fee or offering it as an optional add-on, we explore how this thoughtful touch can elevate your brand and make your clients feel pampered, confident, and camera-ready. We chat through: 💄 When and how to offer professional hair and makeup 🤝 Collaborating with HMUAs to match your brand vibe 🍼 Best practices for newborn sessions when moms need the extra TLC
2025-04-2921 minCreative Moms FocusSeason 2 Premiere! | Life Updates + What’s Coming NextWelcome back to Creative Moms Focus – your go-to podcast for balancing motherhood, creativity, and purpose! In this Season 2 premiere, co-hosts Tara and Jessica are back with fresh energy, real talk, and big dreams for what’s ahead. In this episode, we’re sharing exciting personal life updates, what we’ve been up to behind the scenes, and everything you can expect in Season 2 of the podcast—from new creative routines, guest interviews, business growth tips, and honest conversations about motherhood. Whether you’re a creative entrepreneur, a stay-at-home mom with a side hustle, or just looking for...
2025-04-2213 min
On Air with Brandon JayElton John Aids Foundation raises 8.6 Million DollarsOn this episode we highlight some of the interviews on the red carpet at the 33rd Annual Elton John AIDS 33rd Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards® Viewing Party on Sunday, March 2 at West Hollywood Park. The event featured an electrifying performance from Grammy®-Award winning Chappell Roan, and raised over $8.6 million in support of the Foundation’s mission to end AIDS.
Elton John co-hosted the event alongside Elton John AIDS Foundation Chair David Furnish, Golden Globe® and EMMY® Award-winning actress Jean Smart, EMMY® Award-winning actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, EMMY® Award and Tony® Award-winning actor Neil Patrick Ha...
2025-03-0437 minCreative Moms FocusNavigating Transitions and Planning for Success in 2025Join us for the final episode of Creative Moms Focus Season 1, featuring a heartfelt solo conversation with Tara. Tara opens up about the personal and professional challenges she faced as her family navigated a cross-country move. She gets vulnerable about the obstacles and growth opportunities that came with starting over in both life and business. In this episode, Tara offers encouragement for creative entrepreneurs, especially those going through difficult transitions or beginning anew. She also shares practical tips for overcoming obstacles, actionable strategies for getting unstuck, and insights on embracing growth during the messy, challenging seasons of...
2024-11-2612 minCreative Moms FocusPivoting From All Inclusive to A La Carte with Brielle PepperHave you ever considered switching from an all inclusive offer to an a la carte one? Well this week’s guest, Brielle of husband and wife team, Jacob and Brielle Photography, explains how she did just that. Brielle shares her experience going from an all inclusive photographer with a lower rate and high volume of shoots to her current model of offering a more catered, a la carte experience to her clients. During our conversation Brielle shares candidly about the ups and downs of making this switch which ultimately led to a successful shift in thei...
2024-11-1949 minCreative Moms FocusManifestation with Lena Khais Part 2In this episode, we have the pleasure of hearing Part 2 of our interview with manifestation coach Lena Khais. If you haven’t yet, make sure to listen to Part 1 to learn about Lena’s background and the practice of manifestation. Lena shares the role the ego plays in the process of growth and the role of mindset shift. She teaches that the mind is a powerful force in being successful and shares tangible examples of putting manifestation into practice as a business owner, focusing specifically on gratitude for both what you have and the things you wa...
2024-11-1225 minCreative Moms FocusManifestation with Lena Khais Part 1In this episode, we have the pleasure of talking with manifestation coach Lena Khais. Lena shares how her background in clinical psychology in the corporate world led her to study the field of manifesting. She has since become a coach and developed a four step process to realizing your dreams and creating a life you love through manifestation. Lena walks through those four strategies to utilize manifestation as a part of reaching your goals as a business owner & entrepreneur and gives practical examples specific to photographers. She talks about the importance of changing your mindset intentionally to support your...
2024-11-0527 min
Creative Moms FocusHow to Avoid Over-Delivering and Curate the Perfect Client GalleryIn this episode of Creative Moms Focus, hosts Samantha and Tara dive into a crucial topic for photographers—how to avoid overwhelming your clients with too many photos and instead deliver beautifully curated galleries that leave a lasting impression. Tara walks us through her refined process of culling images, including why she starts her culling at the end of a session, how she eliminates duplicates, and tips on being more ruthless in selection to showcase only the best of the best. We discuss how quality over quantity is key to ensuring your clients feel confident about their ph...
2024-10-2915 min
Creative Moms FocusAutomate, Elevate & Thrive: Tools to Streamline Your Photography BusinessIn this episode of Creative Moms Focus, your hosts Samantha and Jessica dive into the essential tools every photographer needs to streamline their business and improve the client experience. Whether you're juggling motherhood and entrepreneurship or looking to organize your workflow, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you elevate your business. We explore the world of CRMs (Customer Relationship Management) and how you can make these systems work for you—not just as a photographer but as a business owner balancing numerous responsibilities. From integrating automated workflows to managing client interactions with tools like Ho...
2024-10-2222 min
Creative Moms FocusHow To Implement Discovery Calls In this episode of Creative Moms Focus, we’re diving into a vital part of running a successful photography business—offering seamless discovery calls to potential clients. We walk you through a step-by-step process on how to set up and optimize your discovery calls. We’ll start with how to embed a calendar on a hidden page that appears after someone submits their contact form, making scheduling easy and efficient. Next, we’ll discuss what happens after a potential client schedules a call—automating confirmations, reminders, and setting expectations for the conversation. Finally, we break down exactly what to co...
2024-10-1525 min
Creative Moms FocusWhy We Offer Discovery Calls In this episode of Creative Moms Focus, Samantha, Jessica, and Tara share their experiences with introducing discovery calls into their businesses and how this simple strategy became a game-changer. They dive into why these calls have been so successful for them, which types of businesses benefit most, and how they enhance communication between you and your clients. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting your creative journey, this episode is packed with actionable tips on how discovery calls might be the missing link in your business strategy. You’ll hear real-life insights on time management and cl...
2024-10-0815 min
Creative Moms FocusHow to Inspire Clients to Connect and Invest in Your Art In this episode of Creative Moms Focus, Samantha and Tara discuss how important it is to get your clients to emotionally connect to the artwork you sell so they can see it as a valuable investment that they want to make for their own family. They discuss why it’s crucial for potential buyers to see your art as more than just a digital file to admire, but as something physical they can envision in their own lives. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, this episode is packed with practical tips on how to in...
2024-09-1714 min
Creative Moms FocusMastering Time Management: Hacks for Balancing Business and MotherhoodIn this episode, Samantha and Jessica dive into the elusive art of time management. Balancing the demands of a photography business with the responsibilities of motherhood can be overwhelming, but the team is here to experiment with some practical strategies to boost productivity and maintain mental clarity. Join us as we explore three key techniques: the Eisenhower Matrix for prioritizing tasks, time blocking paired with the Pomodoro Technique for focused work sessions, and incorporating mindfulness practices to enhance daily productivity. We'll share our personal experiences with these methods, discuss the challenges of sticking to a schedule, and r...
2024-08-1320 min
Creative Moms FocusNurturing Creativity While Juggling Business and MotherhoodWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast In this episode, Samantha and Jessica dive deep into the heart of maintaining artistic inspiration, even when life feels overwhelming. Balancing the demands of running a business and being a mom can often leave little to no room for creative exploration, but Samantha and Jessica share their personal experiences and practical strategies for staying inspired. Join us as we discuss: - Innovative ways to reignite your passion for photography when you're feeling stuck. - Techniques for carving out time for creativity amidst a busy schedule....
2024-08-0622 min
Creative Moms FocusDiversifying Income as a Creative Photographer with Kristie LloydWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast In this episode, we sit down with Kristie Lloyd, a nurse turned photographer who has mastered the art of diversifying her income through multiple revenue streams. For over 11 years, Kristie has built an incredible and inspiring newborn and family photography business in Nashville, TN. A multi-passionate entrepreneur, Kristie constantly juggles numerous innovative business ideas. Kristie shares her journey from healthcare to photography and how she successfully branched out into real estate, studio rentals, and offering educational courses to other photographers. Tune in to hear her expert advice on creating financial stability...
2024-07-3025 min
Creative Moms FocusHow to Set Achievable GoalsWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast In this episode, Jessica & Tara sit down to chat about the importance of setting achievable and realistic goals in your businesses, especially as busy moms. They discuss the unique challenges faced by busy moms in the photography industry and share practical tips on how to balance professional aspirations alongside family responsibilities. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you thrive both as a business owner and a mom. Resources: In this episode, we talked about so m...
2024-07-2315 min
Creative Moms FocusThe Art of Heirloom Portrait Sessions with Kristie LloydWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Kristie Lloyd to delve into the captivating world of heirloom portrait sessions and their powerful impact. For over 11 years, Kristie has built an incredible and inspiring newborn and family photography business in Nashville, TN. A multi-passionate entrepreneur, Kristie constantly juggles numerous innovative business ideas. Join us as we explore how integrating heirloom portrait sessions has transformed her business trajectory, providing invaluable insights and inspiration for photographers and business owners alike. You won't want to miss this engaging conversation! ...
2024-07-1627 min
Creative Moms FocusFostering a Creative Community with The Kindred PathWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast In this episode, Samantha sits down with Adrianne Shelton and Marie Tilkens from The Kindred Path to discuss the importance of fostering community among photographers. Launched in 2020, The Kindred Path emerged as a beacon of true community when we all needed it the most. Adrianne and Marie share the journey of how they built this incredible space for photographers, featuring curated work, offering in-person workshops, and providing endless inspiration. Tune in to learn about their annual workshops, the launch of their inspiring magazine, and the impact of building a supportive community...
2024-07-0923 min
Creative Moms FocusThat One Time Samantha Dropped The BallWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode of Creative Moms Focus, Samantha shares a recent story about juggling too many balls between her business and family life, leading to a big oops moment with her daughter. She talks about how she missed an important deadline for her daughter's school event and the guilt that followed. We've...
2024-07-0210 minCreative Moms FocusMarketing: Thinking Outside The BoxWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we received some incredible marketing questions from a listener and we are working our way through the list in this episode. This listener really wanted some good advice on marketing not solely focus on Instagram, and we get it. Samantha & Jessica sat down and thought outside of the box and came...
2024-06-2529 min
Creative Moms FocusPro Tips for a Smooth Transition: Relocating Your Photography BusinessWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast In this episode, we sit down with seasoned photographer Alison Bell, who has mastered the art of relocating her photography business. With 13 years of experience and countless successful moves under her belt, Alison shares her strategic approach to moving a photography business, emphasizing that every move is unique and requires a tailored plan. Tune in to learn how you can make more money faster by efficiently transitioning your business to a new location. Are you stumped on where to begin with moving your business? Well, look no further! Alison...
2024-06-1832 min
Creative Moms FocusTurning Passion into Profit: Selling Your Photography as ArtworkWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast In this episode of "Creative Moms Focus", we dive into the exciting world of selling your photography as artwork. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, incorporating artwork sales into your photography business can truly transform your business by elevating your client experience and increasing your revenue! Did you miss last week's episode on opening a studio? We highly recommend listening to that episode before listening to that one. Check that one out here on Apple or Spotify! Resources: In this episode, we tal...
2024-06-1137 min
Creative Moms FocusOpening a Photography StudioWelcome to the Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we’re talking about all about studios. What are the benefits of having your own? What if you're not interested in having your own studio, but want access to one? Join us as we share our thoughts and experiences we've had with our own studios so you can make the bes...
2024-06-0435 min
Creative Moms FocusMarketing: Knowing and Understanding Your Ideal ClientWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we're discussing an essential topic for any photographer looking to grow their client base and enhance their services: understanding your ideal client. Join us on this episode as we explore the strategies and insights you need to identify and connect with the clients who will truly appreciate and invest in your...
2024-05-2809 min
Creative Moms FocusMarketing: How Blogging Can Boost Your Photography BusinessWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we delve into the incredible power of blogging and how it can transform your photography business. Join us as we explore the multifaceted benefits of maintaining a photography blog, from boosting your online presence to connecting with your audience on a deeper level. If you haven't listened to the first episode...
2024-05-2814 min
Creative Moms FocusCollaborating With Florists Featuring A Garden PartyWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we're chatting with Mary Coombs of 'A Garden Party' on how to successfully collaborate well with florists in your business. With over 18 years in business, Mary has seen it all and has incredible advice on how to make sure you set clear expectations, create a working relationship, and how to continue supporting each...
2024-05-2128 min
Creative Moms FocusFinding Balance: Setting Boundaries as a Creative MompreneurWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. Connect with us on Instagram: (@creativemomsfocus) Find out more on our website: creativemomsfocus.com We’d love it if you’d share this episode with a friend and tag us on social media! @creativemomsfocus Why Boundaries Matter As creative professionals and mothers, the line between work and home...
2024-05-1426 min
Creative Moms FocusMoving Your Business With Melissa ArlenaWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we have brought back the one and only, Melissa Arlena, a former IT nerd turned photographer who is obsessed with SEO. With over 16 years in business, she is such a gold mine of information on all things business and motherhood. Melissa has moved her business multiple times and has continued to...
2024-05-0731 min
Creative Moms FocusHow To Convert Wedding Clients to Portrait ClientsWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we’re discussing how to successfully transition wedding clients into portrait clients. All three of us, Tara, Samantha, and Jessica all started our businesses in the wedding industry. As time went on and our family dynamics changed, we each decided to transition into the portrait industry. But let's be real - th...
2024-04-3025 min
Creative Moms FocusThe Power of CommunityWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we’re discussing the power of community in being self-employed, our own success stories, and tips for you to build your own community of supportive industry friends. Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativemomsfocus Find out more on our website: creativemomsfocus.com Join our Fa...
2024-04-2323 min
Creative Moms FocusSEO Tips for Photographers with Melissa ArlenaWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we chat with Melissa Arlena, a former IT nerd turned photographer who is obsessed with SEO. With over 16 years in business, she is such a gold mine of information on all things business and motherhood. Melissa helps portrait photographers who aren’t getting enough inquiries get found on Google so they ca...
2024-04-1630 min
Creative Moms FocusMeet Samantha, Tara & JessicaWelcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. In this episode, we chat about how each of us got our start with photography, where we are now, how we met, and what we're most excited about this podcast for. Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativemomsfocus Find out more on our website: creativemomsfocus.com Join...
2024-04-1608 min
Creative Moms FocusWelcome to the Creative Moms Focus Podcast!Welcome to Creative Moms Focus Podcast Creative Moms Focus is dedicated to mothers with a passion for photography and an entrepreneurial spirit. We aim to support, inspire, and empower creative moms on their business journey while balancing the joys of motherhood. Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativemomsfocus Find out more on our website: creativemomsfocus.com Join Us! Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro, Creative Moms Focus offers a community and resources to navigate the beautiful chaos of entrepreneurship and motherhood together.
2024-04-0301 min
SVU POD: Especially HeinousS6E11 Contagious (TCC: Danny Heinrich and the murder of Jacob Wetterling)This episode has everything; A lil cutie patootie Disney channel baby here to hurt our hearts, we share our joint wishes if any individual surgical needs are to arise (if you take Gabe’s kidney, you best know you’re taking Tasha’s), pickleball is to 2024 as owl necklaces were to 2012, the dad from The Good Son, Matt Saracen from Friday Night Lights…also, no 9 year old is creating an architecturally accurate to scale crayon drawing of a house, Dr. Hendricks! Clear Eyes! Full Hearts! Can’t Lose! Recap 1:00 True Crime Chaser 46:04 Patreon: Recap 1:34 True Crime Chaser 1:02:04 *TW: child sexual abuse, kidnappi...
2024-01-161h 11
Frankie's Mama ReadsEpisode 1: 14 Books to Read While Staying Home and Staying SafeLibrary Haul for Self-Isolation
The Secrets She Keeps by Michael Robotham
The Stranger by Harlan Coben
Eight Perfect Murders by Peter Swanson
The Holdout by Graham Moore
You Are Not Alone by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
Recipe for a Perfect Murder by Karma Brown
My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing
Dead to Her by Sarah Pinborough
A Beginning at the End by Mike Chen
Mananaland by Pam Munoz Ryan
The Beautiful by Renee Ahdieh
Laura Deen Keeps Breaking Up With Me by Mariko Tamaki
Waiting for Tom Hanks by Kerry Winfrey
The Girls with No Names...
2020-03-3118 min