The ProMama Podcast

promamapod

Mastering the art of career design and the motherhood journey.

Welcome to the ProMama Podcast! I’m your host, Felicia Johnson a mother of two, career professional in project management, operations and corporate events. I am a firm believer that you don’t have to compromise your dreams to be a dedicated mom.

For a long time, I was just winging it. But after years of "figuring it out" and constantly being asked, "Girl, how do you do it?" I decided it was time to share the notes. This podcast is a deep dive into how dynamic women across all professions actually get it done. We’re moving past the "juggle" and into intentional career design.

What is a ProMama? A ProMama is any woman dedicated to motherhood who refuses to let her personal passions, friendships, or career goals take a backseat.

On this show, we talk about:

The Tools: Practical tips and tricks to manage a full career and a full house.
The Reality: The good, the bad, and the ugly of motherhood integration.
The Support: How friends, colleagues, and employers can better recognize and support the Pro Mamas in their lives.

Whether you are here for the strategies or the community, I hope this space reminds you that while it isn't easy, you don't have to do it alone.

Watch & Connect: For the full experience, join our community on the ProMama YouTube to watch our visual interviews and grab extra resources. Please follow me on Instagram @promamapod for a look into my Pro Mama life, let’s connect on LinkedIn, and be sure to join the ProMama group !

Let's stop winging it and start winning together.

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10 episodes
Avg 40 min
English

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#10
September 5 · 32 min
Empowered by Motherhood with Mia J Davis | Episode 10
Discover how brand strategist and founder of Color Vision, Mia Davis mom of two navigates full-time entrepreneurship while cultivating a 20,000+ multi-generational workforce community for women. This episode dives into the realities of designing a flexible career, using your voice in executive spaces, and protecting your peace as a working mother. Listen in as Felicia & Mia Discuss: The Financial & Transition Strategy: Mia shares her journey from starting corporate life at 18 to making double her salary for two and a half years before leaving her 9-to-5, emphasizing why every mother needs a plan before leaping into full-time entrepreneurship. Motherhood as an Accelerator: How her children didn't slow her down, it sped her up, prompting her to take control of her time, PTO, and schedule to build her dream agency and non-profit. Navigating the Workplace & Leadership: Why working mothers are natural hyper-efficient superstars, and how non-mom leaders can better understand and support the real-life logistics of parents on their teams. CEO Energy vs. Home Life: How Mia switches off her Type-A executive persona at home by finding therapeutic joy in her greenhouse, along with the importance of non-negotiable monthly girls' nights and quiet solo time. Connect with Mia: Website: www.colorvisioncreates.com Instagram:@itsmiajdavis @thecolorvision LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mia-j-davis-59921515a/ Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community: Follow on Instagram: @promamapod for behind-the-scenes clips and daily affirmations. Connect on LinkedIn: Join the ProMama LinkedIn Group to network with other high-achieving mothers. Subscribe on YouTube: Watch the full visual interview on the ProMama YouTube Channel.
#9
July 6 · 43 min
Movement Mama with Dominique Andriese | Episode 9
Discover how Dominique Andriese navigates her multifaceted career as a dance movement psychotherapist, writer, and performer while embracing her role as a mother. This episode highlights the importance of authentic self-expression, intentional career design, and the power of movement in nurturing both professional and personal growth. Listen in as Felicia & Dominique Discuss: The Creative & Private Practice Pivot: Dominique shares her journey into establishing her private practice and how she finally brought her long-held film project, Love Rhetorical, to life. The Power of Conscious Movement: How dance movement therapy anchored Dominique during a challenging pregnancy, and how she translates those clinical tools at home to connect with and calm her son, Nabil. Designing Accessibility for Parents: An inside look at her upcoming wellness app designed to give busy, overwhelmed parents quick, judgment-free movement and mindfulness strategies. Identity, Intentionality, and Legacy: Why safeguarding your personal identity and leaning into humor and legacy is the ultimate blueprint for modern motherhood and non-linear career design. Tools for Everyday Overwhelm: Practical, actionable strategies any mother can use like the "freeze" method to manage toddler tantrums and foster deep emotional regulation through shared activities. Connect with Dominique: Website: www.dasitf.com Instagram: @dominiqueandriese LinkedIn: Dominique Andriese Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community: Follow on Instagram: @promamapod for behind-the-scenes clips and daily affirmations. Connect on LinkedIn: Join the ProMama LinkedIn Group to network with other high-achieving mothers. Subscribe on YouTube: Watch the full visual interview on the ProMama YouTube Channel.
#8
June 4 · 42 min
Behind the lens with Tricia Messeroux-Curwen | Episode 8
In this high-energy, full-circle episode, host Felicia Johnson welcomes one of her very first professional mentors, Tricia Messeroux-Curwen (affectionately known as "T-Mez"). Tricia is an elite creative director, producer, marketing executive, and the powerhouse founder of the T-Mezz Creative Group. After spending 15 years living out of a suitcase and shaping iconic global campaigns for household names and celebrities, Tricia chose to pivot into entrepreneurship so she could be fully present for her daughters. In this episode she gives a masterclass on what it truly means to build a thriving business while seamlessly directing a family legacy. We dive into how she integrates her husband ("Mr. Fantastic") and her daughters into her media empire, the strategy behind starting children in professional spaces early, and the importance of showing positive, joyful portrayals of Black family life in the media. Listen in as Felicia & Tricia Discuss: The Breaking Point of the Travel Grind: Tricia recalls the emotional turning point after a two-week shoot in China when her three-year-old daughter barely recognized her—sparking her definitive pivot into entrepreneurship. The "Momager": How to balance nurturing your child's confidence while teaching them professional accountability, maintaining boundaries, and honoring commitments. Uplifting the Next Gen Early: Why Tricia believes in preparing kids for the workforce with practical resume-building, networking, and transferable skills long before they reach college. Fearless Authenticity: Why showcasing positive, joyful Black family structures is the only way to lead effectively in both the media and your community. Connect with Tricia: Instagram: @allthingstmezz_ TikTok: All things tmezz LinkedIn: Tricia Messeroux Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community: Follow on Instagram: @promamapod for behind-the-scenes clips and daily affirmations. Connect on LinkedIn: Join the ProMama LinkedIn Group to network with other high-achieving mothers. Subscribe on YouTube: Watch the full visual interview on the ProMama YouTube Channel.
#7
May 1 · 53 min
The Village Architect with Dr. Dawn HicksTafari | Episode 7
In this inspiring episode of the ProMama Podcast, host Felicia Johnson interviews Dr. Dawn Hicks Tafari a powerhouse community organizer, educator, and mother. Dr. Tafari doesn't just talk about "the village", she actively designs it. As a co-founder of the Greensboro Kwanzaa Collective and a leader in higher education, she provides a masterclass on how to move from "doing it all" to building a collective responsibility that supports both your career and your family. We explore how the principles of Kwanzaa can be applied to daily living, why vulnerability is a leadership superpower, and why Dr. Dawn believes your career should be an extension of who you are, not just a line on a resume. Listen in as Felicia & Dr. Tafari Discuss: The Village Architect Mindset: Why a support system doesn't just happen by accident you have to build it with intention and clear communication. Kwanzaa in the Home: How the principles serve as a blueprint for raising grounded, community-oriented children. The Doctorate & The Diaper Bag: The grit required to balance high-level academic pursuit with the daily realities of motherhood. Fearless Authenticity: Why "practicing what you preach" is the only way to lead effectively in both your household and your community. Connect with Dr. Dawn Tafari: Instagram: @love.eat.build YouTube: The Tafari Family Organization: Greensboro Kwanzaa Collective Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community: Follow on Instagram: @promamapod for behind-the-scenes clips and daily affirmations. Connect on LinkedIn: Join the ProMama LinkedIn Group to network with other high-achieving mothers. Subscribe on YouTube: Watch the full visual interview on the ProMama YouTube Channel.
#6
March 12 · 46 min
Firm Nos with Shirley Dor | Episode 6
In this episode of the ProMama podcast, host Felicia Johnson interviews Shirley Dor, a new mom and entrepreneur, discussing the intersection of motherhood and career. They explore Shirley's journey as a Haitian-American, the cultural influences on her parenting, and the importance of self-care and setting boundaries. The conversation highlights the challenges and joys of being a new mom while managing a business, as well as practical parenting hacks and the significance of nurturing relationships. Shirley shares her insights on the unique experiences of being a girl mom and the importance of maintaining a strong partnership with her partner amidst the demands of motherhood. Listen in as Felicia & Shirley Discuss: The "Firm No" Philosophy: Why establishing boundaries in business like no work weekends was the ultimate training ground for the demands of motherhood. Heritage as a Unique Selling Proposition: How Shirley uses her Haitian descent and multicultural fluency to stand out in the marketing industry and how she is intentionally embedding that same pride in her daughter. Healing the Mother Wound: A candid look at being a "girl mom" and how raising a daughter provides a unique opportunity to heal past traumas and become the mother you once needed. Postpartum Rituals & Ancestral Care: The importance of honoring cultural traditions, from Haitian postpartum baths to "patting the body," and how these rituals bridge the gap between generations. The Hot Girl Walk: Using movement as a threefold tool for vanity, wellness, and the essential mental escape required to keep from pouring from an empty cup. Connect with Shirley Dor: Instagram: @shirleydor_ / @haitianswhoblog / @dorsainvilcreative YouTube: Shirley Dor (for Vlogs & Journey updates) Tiktok: Shirley Dor Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community Follow me on Instagram @promamapod for a look into my ProMama life. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, and be sure to join the ProMama group! Join our community on the ProMama YouTube channel to watch our visual interviews and grab extra resources.
#5
February 25 · 46 min
Radical Self-Discovery with Nathelie Zetrenne-Norman | Episode 5
In this episode of the ProMama Podcast, host Felicia Johnson celebrates a major milestone: the inaugural LinkedIn Live stream of the show. Felicia is joined by Nathelie Zetrenne-Norman a powerhouse author, coach, athlete, and creator of the Dear Beautiful The Brand. Nathelie shares an honest, unfiltered look at the transition that comes with motherhood. From navigating therapy to rediscovering her identity outside of the "Super Mom" trope, she discusses how she uses an athletic mindset to manage three children, a corporate career, and multiple entrepreneurial ventures. Listen in as Felicia & Nathelie Discuss: Selfless Self-Discovery: Why healing and rediscovering your identity is the greatest gift you can give your children, and how to navigate the shift from "who you were" to who you are becoming. The Art of the Pivot: Reframing failure and perfectionism to teach children resilience, proving that "doing things scared" is a vital part of personal and professional growth. Athletic Discipline in the Household: How a background in track and field provides the framework for managing a busy schedule, setting boundaries, and maintaining a high-performance household. Rest as Resilience: Breaking through the guilt of "doing less" and understanding that rest is a requirement for leadership, not a reward for burnout. Building Your Village: The importance of intentional community from sororities to retreats and how connection reduces the loneliness often felt in modern motherhood. Connect with Nathelie Zetrenne-Norman: TikTok: @dearbeautiful__ Instagram: @DearBeautiful___ LinkedIn: Nathelie Zetrenne-Norman Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community Follow me on Instagram @promamapod for a look into my ProMama life. Let’s connect on LinkedIn, and be sure to join the ProMama group! Join our community on the ProMama YouTube channel to watch our visual interviews and grab extra resources.
#4
February 10 · 41 min
Setting the Pace with Jennifer Shayne | Episode 4
In this episode of the ProMama Podcast, host Felicia Johnson sits down with Jennifer Shayne, co-founder and coach of TeamWRK. As a high school teacher, community leader, and new mother, Jennifer shares an unfiltered look at navigating the wellness space while re-learning her body post-pregnancy. The conversation explores the raw challenges of reclaiming your "game" after baby, the significance of representation for women of color in fitness, and why she insists on bringing her son along for the run proving that motherhood isn't a hurdle to a legacy, but a vital part of it. Listen in as Felicia & Jennifer discuss: The Post-Pregnancy Pivot: Navigating the mental and physical hurdles of returning to the sport of running when you don't feel like your "fit" or "fast" former self. The Power of the Village: How the TeamWRK ecosystem serves as a support system for motherhood and why building a community is essential for long-term motivation. Legacy in the Stroller: The intentional decision to include her son in training’s and races, teaching him the value of health and community from day one. Radical Self-Care & Agency: Why running is a non-negotiable for mental health and the importance of mothers taking up space in the wellness industry. Managing the Burnout: Practical strategies for recognizing the signs of exhaustion and choosing grace over guilt while balancing a 9-to-5 and a growing movement. Connect with Jennifer Shayne: Website: TeamWRK Instagram: @jenn_shayne / @teamwrk LinkedIn: Jennifer Shayne Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community Follow me on Instagram @promamapod for a look into my ProMama life Let’s connect on LinkedIn, and be sure to join the ProMama group! Join our community on the ProMama YouTube channel to watch our visual interviews and grab extra resources.
#3
February 2 · 33 min
Melodies and Motherhood with Carlitta Durand | Episode 3
In this episode of the ProMama Podcast, host Felicia Johnson welcomes singer-songwriter and mother of three, Carlitta Durand. The conversation dives into the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood with a creative career. Carlitta shares her journey of taking a hiatus from music to focus on her children, emphasizing the importance of being present during their formative years. As the discussion unfolds, Carlitta reflects on her return to music, the impact of her organized lifestyle on her parenting, and how she nurtures her children's interests while maintaining her own creative pursuits. Listen in as Felicia & Carlitta discuss: The Creative Hiatus: The intentional decision to step back from the spotlight to be 100% hands-on during the formative years. The "Pro" in Professional Musician: How a background in the music industry teaches lessons in organization that translate directly to motherhood. Mental Preparation: Strategies for switching gears from "Mom Mode" to "Creative Mode" without losing your momentum. Entrepreneurial Kids: How being a working artist teaches your children the value of hard work, dedication, and following their own passions. The "Selfish" Necessity: Why carving out personal time and claiming a "day off" isn't a luxury, it's how you stay alive for yourself and your family. Connect with Carlitta Durand: Spotify: Carlitta Durand Instagram: Carlittadurand Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community Follow me on Instagram @promamapod for a look into my ProMama life Let’s connect on LinkedIn, and be sure to join the ProMama group! Join our community on the ProMama YouTube channel to watch our visual interviews and grab extra resources.
#2
January 26 · 30 min
The Doctor-Mom Playbook with Dr. Rhonia Brooks-Gordon | Episode 2
In Episode 2 of the Pro Mama Podcast, host Felicia Johnson sits down with Dr. Rhonia Brooks-Gordon, a board-certified Obstetrician & Gynecologist and mother of three boys. This conversation explores the unique logistics and mindset required to thrive in a high-stakes medical career while managing a busy household of five. Dr. Rhonia shares the reality of being part of a "dual-physician" couple, diving into how she and her husband navigate demanding schedules, three active sons under the age of six, and the constant need for intentional planning. From advocating for herself in the workplace to the power of a "village" that includes hired help, she provides a masterclass in professional career design. As the episode unfolds, Dr. Rhonia reflects on the lessons learned from her own mother and how those values inspire the way she raises her sons today. She emphasizes that being a "Pro Mama" isn't about doing it all alone, but rather having the strategy to ensure both your career and your family receive the best of you. Listen in as Felicia & Dr. Rhonia discuss: Workplace Advocacy: Why mothers must be their own best advocates in demanding professional environments. The Logistics of Support: How to build and manage a support system that actually works. Partner Communication: Navigating career decisions and household management with your spouse. Intentional Parenting: Managing children’s social calendars and staying engaged with their individual interests. The Self-Care Mandate: Why making time for yourself is a non-negotiable for high-performing moms. Connect with Dr. Rhonia Brooks-Gordon: Instagram: obgyn_inthecity LinkedIn: Rhonia Brooks-Gordon, MD, FACOG Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community Join our community on the ProMama YouTube channel to watch our visual interviews and grab extra resources. Follow me on Instagram @promamapod for a look into my ProMama life Let’s connect on LinkedIn, and be sure to join the ProMama group!
#1
January 18 · 34 min
The Freelance Blueprint with Nykia Spradley | Episode 1
Welcome to Episode 1 Woot Woot! In Episode 1 of the ProMama Podcast, host Felicia Johnson welcomes her friend and first guest, Nykia Spradley, a seasoned journalist and content strategist. The conversation dives into the challenges and triumphs of balancing motherhood with a demanding career. Nykia shares her journey from a structured full-time job to freelancing, a decision inspired by her desire to be more present for her son as he transitions into his teenage years. As the episode unfolds, Nykia reflects on how her approach to work has evolved since becoming a mother, noting the societal pressures and expectations that can make it difficult for working moms to feel validated. The discussion highlights the emotional complexities of motherhood, including the guilt that often accompanies the need to juggle work and family responsibilities. Listen in as Felicia & Nykia discuss: workplace dynamics and double standards setting boundaries within the workplace and with your kids the necessity of self-care. Being Role modes for your children The pursuit of a fulfilling career while being an engaged parent Connect with Nykia Spradley LinkedIn Instagram Watch & Connect with the ProMama Community Join our community on the ProMama YouTube channel to watch our visual interviews and grab extra resources. Follow me on Instagram @promamapod for a look into my ProMama life Let’s connect on LinkedIn, and be sure to join the ProMama group! Keywords Pro Mama Podcast, motherhood, work-life balance, freelancing, mom guilt, parenting tips, Nykia Spradley, Felicia Johnson, self-care, career transitions Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pro Mama Podcast 03:14 Nykia's Journey into Motherhood and Career 05:33 Transitioning to Freelancing and Work-Life Balance 08:15 Navigating Workplace Dynamics as a Mother 11:03 The Challenges of Aging Children and Career 13:53 Managing Guilt and Expectations as a Working Mom 16:47 The Impact of Freelancing on Family Life 19:29 Self-Care and Setting Boundaries 22:15 Pro Mama Essentials and Final Thoughts

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