*Episode Stack:* https://stackl.ist/4hxGPJu

*Summary*

In this episode of our podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Vicki, the founder of Joy of Mom, a vibrant community dedicated to supporting mothers through the ups and downs of parenting. Our conversation delved into the evolution of her journey, from her early career in sales and advertising to her passion for creating a safe space for moms to connect and share their experiences.

We began by discussing the intimate and personal nature of the connections formed within communities like Joy of Mom. Vicki shared her insights on the importance of authenticity in a world often dominated by curated perfection. She emphasized that her approach has always been about being real and relatable, which resonates deeply with her audience.

As we explored her background, Vicki recounted her early career in television and radio, her transition into writing children's books, and the challenges she faced while developing her first software product aimed at validating children's feelings. This journey was marked by a lack of resources and experience, yet fueled by sheer determination and a desire to make a difference.

A pivotal moment in her journey came when she realized the need for mothers to have a platform where they could share recommendations and support one another. This led to the organic growth of Joy of Mom, where Vicki engaged directly with her audience, responding to their needs and fostering a sense of community. We discussed the challenges of maintaining that authenticity while navigating the complexities of social media and the pressures of commercialization.

Throughout our conversation, Vicki highlighted the significance of shared experiences and the power of connection. She shared anecdotes about her interactions with moms who felt seen and heard through her content, reinforcing the idea that community is built on trust and genuine relationships.

As we looked to the future, Vicki expressed her excitement about expanding Joy of Mom into new areas, including micro-groups and curated resources that address the specific needs of mothers today. We touched on the importance of creating a safe and nourishing environment for moms to thrive, especially in a world filled with noise and distractions.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of motherhood, community, and the journey of building something meaningful from the ground up. Vicki's story is a testament to the power of authenticity and the impact of connecting with others on a shared journey. Join us as we celebrate the beauty of imperfection and the strength found in community.

*Chapters*

00:00:00 - Introduction and Personal Connections
Discussion about shared needs and interests, and the personal nature of connections.

00:01:17 - Meeting and Family Moments
Casual conversation about family, pets, and personal anecdotes.

00:02:22 - Travel Experiences
Sharing experiences from a recent trip to Manhattan and the hospitality received.

00:03:14 - Authenticity in Podcasting
The hosts discuss the importance of authenticity in conversations and content creation.

00:05:14 - Improv and Life Lessons
Exploration of improv as a metaphor for life and the beauty of being present in the moment.

00:07:06 - Background and Journey
Introduction of the guest and a brief overview of their background leading to the creation of Joy of Mom.

00:08:35 - Early Career and Entrepreneurial Spirit
Discussion about the guest's early career and the transition into entrepreneurship.

00:12:32 - Creating a Software for Kids
The guest shares their experience in developing a software product aimed at children.

00:15:21 - Building a Community
The evolution of community engagement and the desire to connect with other moms.

00:19:44 - Challenges and Growth
Reflections on the growth of Joy of Mom and the challenges faced along the way.

00:23:36 - Navigating Social Media Obstacles
Discussion about the difficulties encountered with social media platforms and account management.

00:25:23 - Personal Loss and New Beginnings
The guest shares a poignant moment of personal loss coinciding with a new business venture.

00:30:01 - The Importance of Authenticity
Exploration of the significance of staying true to oneself in business and community building.

00:32:00 - Future Plans and Community Needs
Insights into future plans for Joy of Mom and addressing the needs of the community.

00:35:01 - Curating Experiences and Resources
Discussion on the importance of curating valuable experiences and resources for moms.

00:39:01 - Team Expansion and Support
The guest talks about the evolution of their team and the support from family.

00:42:09 - Focus Areas for the Future
Overview of the key themes and focus areas for the upcoming year in the community.