If you’ve ever launched a business with a baby on your hip and a dream in your heart, this episode is for you. Karenna and Samantha sit down with the multi-hyphenate Marisa Donnelly—writer, entrepreneur, educator, and full-time mama—to talk about what it really looks like to juggle motherhood, stepparenthood, and CEO energy without losing your damn mind.
Marisa doesn’t sugarcoat the grind. She opens up about the unexpected identity shift of becoming a stepmom, the friendship growing pains that come with bold life choices, and the burnout that creeps in when you’re trying to be everything to everyone.
Redefining Motherhood and Entrepreneurship
Marisa’s journey into motherhood came with a twist—stepping into a maternal role without the prep time or pregnancy glow-up. She shares how embracing the label of “stepmom” forced her to navigate new emotional terrain and led to deep personal growth.
And let’s not forget the business side. Starting a company while parenting full-time isn’t for the faint of heart. Marisa walks us through the boundaries she had to build, the mindset shifts that changed her life, and the moment she realized she wasn’t building a business to get away from her child—but to be with her child more.
Boundaries, Burnout & Bold Choices
One of the biggest takeaways? You can love your child and your work deeply—and still say no. Marisa talks about the power of boundaries, the art of protecting your energy, and the subtle ways burnout sneaks into your day-to-day.
There’s also a powerful reframe she shares that will stick with you long after the episode ends: “You started this business to spend more time with your child.” It’s a reminder that your purpose and your presence don’t have to be at odds.
Growing Alongside Your Child
At the heart of this conversation is growth—yours and your child’s. Marisa reminds us that motherhood doesn’t mean sacrificing your identity. Instead, it’s an invitation to evolve, to expand, and to become the most fully expressed version of yourself.
So whether you’re in the thick of toddler tantrums, navigating new love as a stepparent, or scaling your dream business while wiping sticky fingers—this episode is your reminder: you’re doing amazing, sweetie.
Press play and pour yourself a strong coffee. You’re not alone—and you’ve got this.
Listen to Episode #85: Balancing Motherhood, Entrepreneurship & Stepparenthood with Marisa Donnelly
