The Art Of Imperfect Adulting

Amy Stone

The Art of Imperfect Adulting is a podcast and streaming YouTube show for anyone who has ever looked at their own face peering back at them from a Zoom screen and thought: how did I get here, and what do I want to do next? This show is for you if life has taken a turn you didn't plan for and you're still working out what it means. Maybe it's a divorce that rewrote the story you thought you were living, or a health struggle including chronic illness, weight changes, or menopause that shifted everything. It could be a rapid unplanned professional shift like getting fired, laid off, or finally admitting that the corporate grind isn't compatible with the life you actually want. Perhaps your insomnia comes from worrying that you chose the wrong degree, didn't get the job, or that the path you were so sure about went somewhere you didn't intend. Or maybe you feel a sense of drowning in a caregiving season that is quietly consuming you like quicksand, whether you're showing up for a parent, a child, a spouse, or a sibling. It could be a sneaky adulting decision that feels like it should be easier, like choosing a school or curriculum for your kids that is keeping you up at night. Perhaps your Google search history is full of questions about how to move to a place that finally feels more like you, or how to stop putting down roots altogether and see what a life in motion actually looks like. If you've ever felt behind, off-script, or quietly wondering if you're the only one who finds this hard, you're not. This show exists to give you proof that change is possible, to be company for your journey, and offer the quiet relief that comes with being connected to like-minded people. We all know that real life doesn't come with an instruction manual. We also know that our real lives don't match the highlight reels we see on the red carpet or in our social media feeds. In a world where billions of bits of manufactured and altered information deluge us every day, the raw and honest stories of, “how did she do that?” are a welcome breath of fresh air. Each episode features honest conversations with guests sharing the choices and changes that shaped who they became, from unconventional career moves and unexpected reinventions to rebuilding after loss and choosing happiness on their own terms. These are not pitch decks, academic hypotheticals, or celebrity biopics. These are real accounts from real people who've been in the middle of it and stopped to share what they wish somebody had told them when they needed it most. What listeners come away with isn't a checklist, a hack or even a strategy. It's something harder to manufacture: a feeling that you’re not alone, a little more confidence in your own choices, and the quiet sense of belonging that comes from hearing someone else say out loud what you've been thinking. Your host is Amy Stone, a Gen X woman who knows what it means to be overlooked, underestimated, surprised by the impact of both small decisions and sudden life shifts, and expected to just figure it out. It turns out that might be exactly the right training for hosting a show about choices and change. She brings warmth, zero pretense, and a talent for drawing out the quiet turning points that rarely make it into anyone's highlight reel. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and be sure to join the email community at https://www.imperfectadulting.com

  1. 20h ago

    Finding Support in the Postpartum Experience with Kristen Smith

    If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/support In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kristin Smith about the power of hard-won resilience, career pivots, and building a family-focused business from personal struggle. Kristin, based in Western Massachusetts, shares her journey from becoming a mother at age 19 in New York City to founding a nationwide postpartum care company. Listeners will take away insights on early motherhood, overcoming isolation, and the steps to turning life’s hardest moments into entrepreneurial fuel. About Kristin Smith: Kristin Smith is the founder of Well Supported Family, a newborn care and postpartum support agency with a national presence that connects families with experienced caregivers during the early stages of parenthood. She began her career as a professional nanny, and in 2008, she was named Nanny of the Year by Family Helpers, and the following year she was selected as a finalist for ABC’s America’s Supernanny. Main Topics Covered: The profound impact of becoming a mother at a young age, and how it changed Kristin’s life trajectoryExperiences of postpartum isolation—even in the middle of a big city and while working in childcareThe practical and emotional micro-decisions involved in leaving an unsupportive relationship and starting overTurning personal challenges in early motherhood into a meaningful, sustainable career as a doula and eventually entrepreneurBuilding and scaling a postpartum support business (now Well Supported Family) from solo practice to a national team serving diverse familiesThe logistics and realities of growing a service business as a single mother, with the help of family and later, a supportive partnerEmbracing bold choices, learning from mistakes, and cultivating confidence as a self-taught business ownerEncouragement that it’s possible to find joy and purpose in work, and that past choices don’t define one’s future potential Quote from the Episode: "I just always had the mentality of go big or go home... I have to have the ability to kind of sit back within my own company and hand off all the tasks that I don't want to do so I can enjoy life. Because I've worked so hard and so long and put so many blood, sweat, and tears into this that I gotta make this bigger than it is." — Kristin Smith Timestamps: [00:00:19] Kristin’s introduction and life in Western Massachusetts [00:01:38] Identifying as a Millennial and early life plans [00:02:35] Nearly joining the military and pivoting to nanny work in NYC [00:05:27] Experience of moving alone to New York and early motherhood [00:08:01] Raising a newborn with minimal support and returning home [00:09:34] Mindset and decision-making when isolated postpartum [00:12:03] Reflection on giving her partner a “fair shot” for her daughter’s sake [00:15:12] In-depth exploration of postpartum isolation—even with a childcare background [00:18:13] Career pivots: training as an EMT, postpartum doula, home birth midwife, and starting solo practice [00:22:09] The realities of balancing overnight client work and single motherhood [00:24:58] Growing a solo practice into a team and national agency (Nightingale Night Nurses/Well Supported Family) [00:28:33] First steps in hiring, business learning curve, and problem-solving through mistakes [00:34:21] Kristin’s motivations for building a larger business and desire to help more families [00:36:34] Kristin’s advice—on redefining yourself after setbacks, and building a joyful career [00:38:23] About Well Supported Family: services, who they serve, and how to connect [00:40:50] Kristin’s current TV recommendation and favorite purchase for new parents ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges. These are conversations with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations. CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://wellsupportedfamily.com/ Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes. Why subscribe? Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listen Are you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com If you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guest Here are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-) For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69 Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590 Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofj For Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stone before that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors

  2. Aug 11

    Redesigning Life for Family with Kimberly Tara

    If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/support In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kimberly Tara about navigating career pivots, entrepreneurship, and the realities of balancing family life with professional ambition. Kimberly Tara is based in the suburbs of Charlotte, North Carolina. Kimberly shares her journey from aspiring chemical engineer to CPA firm owner. Listeners will gain insight into the pressures of high achievement, handling burnout, the challenges of growing a business while raising four young kids, and the confidence required to own both your finances and your dreams. About Kimberly Tara: Kimberly Tara is a CPA, Certified Tax Coach, author, podcast host and founder of The Tara CPA firm and TaxMove. She's also a wife and mom to four amazing kiddos all born in 5 and a half years (no twins!). She's on a mission to help profitable business owners have access to reliable tax strategy, so they can actually use their business to pay less taxes instead of more. Kimberly believes that the definition of success isn't about more money, it's about making the most of what you have on your terms. Main Topics Covered: Pivoting from chemical engineering to accounting mid-college: decision-making and overcoming feelings of failure.The realities of financial planning and debt after changing majors.Choosing between corporate career tracks and entrepreneurship, and how observing workplace role models can clarify life priorities.Experiencing and identifying burnout as a high-achieving parent and business owner.Transitioning from solopreneur to building and leading a team, including the operational and mindset shifts required.The societal pressures on women to “do it all,” people-pleasing, and the importance of setting boundaries.Strategies for sustainable business growth, scalable systems, and redefining personal and professional success.Empowering women to take charge of their finances and believe in their ability to thrive as business owners. Timestamps: [00:00:00] Show intro; Kimberly’s move from New Orleans to Charlotte, NC, and what she loves about it [00:00:44] Reflections on generational identity and why it matters for the conversation [00:02:39] Original college plans: chemical engineering, internships, and the hard pivot to accounting [00:04:25] The emotional process of changing majors and facing internalized feelings of failure [00:06:51] Financial impacts of switching majors, scholarships lost, and student debt [00:08:14] Starting a new career in public accounting; the importance of the CPA credential [00:09:39] Why Kimberly chose a medium-sized firm over the Big 4 [00:13:29] The partnership track in accounting and a moment of clarity: witnessing a manager balance work and motherhood [00:16:39] Choosing personal over professional milestones; how representation informs life decisions [00:22:04] Early career burnout, and feeling pressured to perform in every life role [00:27:17] The ongoing influence of people-pleasing and perfectionism [00:30:26] Deciding whether to stay small or grow the firm; math, motherhood, and management [00:35:35] The operational reboot: packages, team-building, and shifting systems to support scale [00:39:45] Why Kimberly shares her story—empowering women in business and financial confidence [00:41:11] Redefining business ownership for freelancers and digital creators [00:42:25] Kimberly’s recommended read: “Remarkably Bright Creatures” [00:43:30] Favorite practical purchase: The Dyson stick vacuum [00:44:53] Amy’s wrap-up, how to join the community, and podcast closing notes ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges. These are conversations with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations. CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://taracpafirm.com or https://taxmove.io GET KIMBERLY TARA'S SPECIAL OFFER: Name: Free Tax Savings Calculator Description: Find out how much you're overpaying on business incomes taxes Value: Free Link: https://taxmove.io Note from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support. Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes. Why subscribe? Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listen Are you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com If you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guest Here are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-) For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69 Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590 Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofj For Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stone before that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors

  3. Aug 4

    Stand-up Comedy and Embracing Creative Risks with Lisa Reid

    If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/support In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Leisa Reid about facing fears and stepping onto the stand-up comedy stage for the first time as an adult. Based in Rancho Santa Margarita, Orange County, CA, Leisa shares how she challenged her self-doubt, pushed personal boundaries, and translated her background in public speaking into a one-night-only comedy experience. Listeners will discover how leaning into discomfort can spark transformation, why resisting an opportunity can be a sign to pursue it, and the behind-the-scenes process of writing and performing a stand-up set. About Leisa Reid: Leisa Reid is known as The Speaking Strategy Mentor and is the Founder of Get Speaking Gigs Now™ and the CEO of the International Speaker Network™. Having delivered over 600 talks and authored 9 books, Leisa has helped business owners scale their impact beyond 1:1- through the power of speaking. She believes speaking isn’t just about giving a talk; it’s about creating a consistent strategy to get booked, stay booked, and attract clients for the lifetime of your business. Leisa is passionate about showing experts how to use speaking as a serious revenue pathway, without the pressure of being perfect or “salesy.” Her down-to-earth approach and proven system empower business owners to confidently share their message, grow their business, and make the impact they were born to create. Quote from the Episode: “There’s no one who can do your pushups for you when you’re on stage. It is you, you, and you, baby. And it can feel scary. It can feel vulnerable, but that’s also the juicy part of it.” — Leisa Reid Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction to the show & what listeners can expect [00:00:41] Leisa’s home in Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, and what she loves about it [00:01:36] Generation identifier and connecting with the Gen X audience [00:02:21] How few people actually knew about Leisa’s stand-up comedy venture [00:03:44] Leisa’s lifelong resistance to stand-up comedy and why she thought it was the scariest speaking format [00:05:07] Quick-wittedness versus planned jokes; discovering personal comedic style [00:06:42] The story behind Leisa being invited — and initially refusing — to perform stand-up [00:08:26] Setting a personal deadline: making stand-up her birthday event [00:09:04] Why strong resistance sometimes means it’s time to say yes [00:12:20] Coaching preparations, writing struggles, and tailoring comedy to her true voice [00:16:07] Researching and choosing the right open mic environment [00:18:04] Doing a dry run and the contrast of performing for strangers versus a supportive crowd [00:19:25] Audience reactions and support from friends and family [00:21:12] Will Leisa keep doing comedy? Writing new material and documenting ideas [00:24:02] Stand-up comedy as a hobby, not a new career—balancing enjoyment and practicality [00:25:28] Reflecting on how trying comedy impacted Leisa’s confidence, life, and relationships [00:27:17] Hopes for listeners: pushing through discomfort and sharing your unique brilliance [00:28:32] Exploring vulnerability, fear, and the “safe, risky yes” in adult growth [00:30:09] Leisa’s professional work helping entrepreneurs craft their signature talks [00:33:07] Changing fears of public speaking and how social dynamics have shifted [00:36:04] Special offer for listeners: Leisa’s tips for public speaking and booking gigs [00:36:54] Leisa’s podcast/media recommendations and a lighthearted discussion of favorite shows ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges. These are conversations with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations. CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://GetSpeakingGigsNow.com GET LEISA'S SPECIAL OFFER: Want speaking gigs? Get FREE Access to the “5 Top Tips to Get Speaking Gigs Now™” Link to ACCESS: https://GetSpeakingGigsNow.com/tips $97 Value Note from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support. If you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guest Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes. Why subscribe? Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listen Are you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com Here are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-) For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69 Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590 Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofj For Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stone before that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors

  4. Jul 28

    Self-Defense Beyond Fighting with Elicia Ybarra

    If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/support In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Elicia Ybarra about the intricate relationship between martial arts, self-defense, trauma, and personal healing. Elicia, based outside Los Angeles, California, opens up about her journey from martial arts prodigy to survivor of emotional and physical manipulation and abuse. Elicia is a lifelong martial artist, dedicated women's self-defense instructor, and passionate advocate for empowering women to live confidently and fearlessly. With over three decades of martial arts experience, including a 4th dan black belt in Taekwondo and a 1st dan black belt in Hapkido, Elicia has transformed her personal journey of resilience into a mission to uplift others. She is the founder of Pretty Hands, Hard Punches. Main Topics Covered: How childhood chaos and trauma led Elicia to find structure and identity through martial arts.The role of martial arts in fostering confidence—but also the hidden dangers of imbalance in power and authority within insular communities.The process of grooming, manipulation, and the often-missed warning signs, especially for young women in high-trust environments.Redefining self-defense: why emotional intelligence, boundaries, and situational awareness are just as vital as physical fighting skills.Elicia’s experience escaping cycles of abuse—from martial arts instructors to romantic partners—and recognizing patterns to break free.The impact of postpartum depression and motherhood in bringing unresolved trauma to the surface, eventually prompting deep healing work.The creation of Pretty Hands Hard Punches, Elicia’s business focused on empowering women to recognize red flags, set boundaries, and advocate for themselves inside and outside martial arts.Practical advice for women on trusting intuition, refusing to sideline discomfort, and shifting the definition of self-defense to include emotional and psychological empowerment. Timestamps: [00:00:00] Amy introduces Elicia and her Southern California roots [00:02:13] Elicia’s early love for martial arts and personal motivation [00:05:07] Martial arts styles explained—taekwondo, karate, hapkido, and the importance of structure for kids [00:10:03] Martial arts as sanctuary from a chaotic childhood and the soothing power of routine [00:15:27] The illusion of safety—why physical prowess didn’t prevent Elicia from falling victim to grooming and manipulation [00:18:17] How grooming began: trusting authority, ignoring discomfort, and escalating boundary crossings [00:24:55] Elicia reflects on the normalization of inappropriate dynamics and the later realization of abuse [00:34:07] How community and family reactions reinforced isolation after she came forward [00:38:41] Escaping one abusive environment, only to face another in a professional martial arts setting [00:43:40] The breaking point: realizing her true role in the toxic gym and finally walking away [00:49:06] The cycle of self-loathing, toxic relationships, and eventually, a decisive break for self-love and healing [00:52:18] Postpartum depression as a catalyst for deep self-reflection, therapy, and transformation [00:54:05] Transitioning from teaching fighting techniques to empowering women through boundaries, self-worth, and intuition [00:58:16] Why most “self-defense” tools aren’t enough—advocating for listening to intuition over guns or pepper spray [01:00:28] Free resources from Elicia: Safety guide and Ideal You worksheet in the show notes [01:01:14] Elicia’s recommendations: From Now On podcast and the book The Gift of Fear [01:03:53] A lighthearted close—Elicia’s American flag dress and embracing celebration ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges. These are conversations with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations. CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: www.prettyhandshardpunches.com GET ELICIA'S SPECIAL OFFER: Free Safety E-Guide Link https://www.prettyhandshardpunches.com/product-page/boundaries-bravery-self-defense-strategies-for-women-everywhere Promo Code: EmpowerHer Free Ideal You Worksheet: https://www.prettyhandshardpunches.com/product-page/creating-the-ideal-you Promo Code: Ideal You Note from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support.

  5. Jul 21

    Stay at Home Mom Guilt and Rediscovering Yourself with Emilie Karun

    If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/support Amy Stone speaks with Emilie Karun about breaking free from perfectionist parenting ideals and redefining what it means to want “more than motherhood.” Hailing from central Illinois, Emilie shares her journey from aspiring to be the perfect stay-at-home mom to embracing her own dreams and becoming a life and success coach. The episode explores how societal expectations, family influences, and internal beliefs shape women’s choices, and how Emilie navigated through guilt, identity loss, and self-discovery to create a life and career she loves. About Emilie Karun: Emilie is a life+success coach and founder of The Good Girl Revolution, dedicated to helping women break up with the rules that rule their life so they can claim everything they were taught not to want. Main Topics Covered: Societal pressures and generational messages about women’s value, motherhood, and self-sacrifice, especially for Gen X and MillennialsThe challenge of losing (or never truly knowing) one’s identity in motherhood—and how motherhood intensifies existing insecuritiesHow extended family dynamics, upbringing, and cultural background can shape both conscious and unconscious life expectationsThe “good girl” programming and its role in fostering perfectionism, people-pleasing, and self-doubtBreaking free from limiting beliefs and learning to trust one’s own desires, even when they don’t align with prescribed gender roles or family/cultural normsThe pivotal role of community, honest conversation, and seeing one’s experience validated by others (“the crack that lets the light in”)How entrepreneurship and life-coaching became transformational tools for self-actualization and lasting changePractical recommendations for cultivating self-awareness and untangling personal desires from societal rulebooks Quote from the Episode: “I thought I lost myself in motherhood. But I came to realize later—no, I just never knew myself to begin with. And motherhood will reveal that to you because it will amplify everything. Every insecurity, every fear, every doubt, every place that you don't know yourself or trust yourself, motherhood will serve that right up to you.”—Emilie Karun Timestamps:00:00 Show intro; Amy Stone welcomes Emilie Karun from central Illinois01:44 Emilie Karun identifies as a proud Gen Xer; family background & generational influences03:30 Early career ambitions, State Farm job, and the dream of being a stay-at-home mom05:14 Reflections on growing up with a working mom, latchkey kid experience, and its (lack of) influence on Emilie’s own decisions06:45 Societal messages about selfless motherhood, the “good girl” fantasy, and needing to be perfect09:41 Navigating social and family environments—how “fitting in” shaped ideas of success13:15 Parenting daughters, changing media messages, and if the perfection pressure still exists17:04 Why women trade their own desires for approval, belonging, and success20:35 The breaking point: realizing “happily ever after” wasn’t enough, discovering Glennon Doyle, and the first “crack in the wall”26:53 Feeling stuck, resisting the “mommy and me” and PTO mom roles, and starting to question old rules31:04 The life-changing realization: there is no one right way to be a mom, just opinions34:30 A slow, years-long evolution into self-permission and possibility35:50 Launching a blog, falling in love with writing, and discovering life coaching39:46 How entrepreneurship forced massive personal growth and self-discovery42:44 Emilie’s current work: helping women reclaim self-trust and burn the rulebook46:02 Book and podcast recommendations—why fiction has surprising power for self-knowledge48:09 Unsupervised online shopping: the joy of simple tools and supplements for perimenopause self-care50:03 Closing thoughts and where to connect with Emilie Karun online ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges. These are conversations with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations. CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: www.emiliekarun.com Her podcast: https://www.emiliekarun.com/podcasts/the-good-girl-revolution GET EMILIE'S SPECIAL OFFER: Burn the Rulebook 7 Day Telegram Audio Experience: $44 offer free to your listeners. https://www.emiliekarun.com/offers/MWpDLqN2/checkout Note from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support. Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes. Why subscribe? Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listen Are you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com If you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guest Here are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-) For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69 Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590 Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofj For Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stone before that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors

  6. Jul 14

    Grief and Golf as a Path to Healing with Kym Coco

    If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/support In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Kym Coco about the intersection of grief, transformation, and the healing power of play through golf. Joining from the serene Sierra Nevadas, north of Lake Tahoe, Kym shares her deeply personal journey of losing her husband and how embarking on an ambitious goal to play 100 new golf courses as a way to help her navigate loss and redefine her future. Listeners will come away with a richer understanding of the non-linear path of grief, the importance of intentional structure, and how embracing new experiences can foster both healing and growth. About Kym Coco: Kym Coco is an author, nature-loving yogi, and dog mama of two Staffies. She holds a Master’s Degree in Sports Kinesiology, and two 500-hour Yoga Teacher Training Certificates. Both topics were woven into the classes she taught at California State University, Chico, and the workshops she taught around the country with her late husband, Stephen Thompson. Coco now shares powerful tools for well-being through her latest book “Miracle on the Mountainside” and her blog, Swagtail.com. When she’s not at her residence in the Sierra Nevada mountains, she’s on the hunt for great golf courses and scenic vistas in her Sprinter Van. Main Topics Covered: Innovative strategies for navigating grief, including using structure and play to process loss and rediscover joy.The story behind Kym’s 100 new golf courses challenge—a personal framework to honor her late husband and rebuild her sense of self.How emotional kinesiology shaped Kym’s partnership, her husband’s legacy, and her approach to healing.The importance of creating new experiences to avoid emotional landmines tied to familiar places and memories.Lessons learned about flexibility, letting goals evolve, and celebrating progress rather than just completion.The significance of allowing oneself to feel the full emotional arc of grief and the value of slowing down during major life transitions.Harnessing community, connection, and playfulness as tools for recovery and personal evolution.Turning personal projects into creative expressions—Kym’s journey from caregiving to authoring memoirs and new resources for others. Timestamps: [00:00:04] Show intro and Amy’s welcome; Kym’s location in the Sierra Nevadas [00:01:09] Finding peace and connection to nature after loss [00:02:04] Introducing the dual topics of grief and golf in Kym’s story [00:03:33] Meeting Steve, their background in (emotional) kinesiology, and building a life together [00:04:42] Steve’s advice: embrace structure after loss; the origins of the 100 golf course challenge [00:05:53] Emotional kinesiology explained and setting the stage for Kym’s healing journey [00:06:10] Steve’s motorcycle accident, lifelong health struggles, and a pivotal hospitalization [00:07:31] Open conversations about end-of-life, illness, and preparing for grief [00:08:22] Why 100 new golf courses? Crafting a framework for recovery [00:09:10] Early attempts at golf after Steve’s death, emotional setbacks, and perseverance [00:11:04] Co-authoring memoirs and the process of sorting stories for healing and legacy [00:13:39] How play, presence, and golf became essential tools for moving through grief [00:16:26] The challenge’s timeframe: still in progress, and why “new” courses matter [00:19:21] Intentionally choosing novelty to avoid emotional landmines in familiar places [00:21:22] Travel, van life, and adapting the project with life’s disruptions [00:23:20] How intuition and community recommendations shaped the journey [00:23:53] The power of “the space between each shot” and learning to savor the unknown [00:26:12] How grief and the 100 course challenge transformed Kym’s pace and sense of self [00:28:00] The role of playfulness and community in healing [00:30:00] Letting go of perfection in both the challenge and the grief process [00:34:05] Kym’s message for listeners: redefining how we “flow love” through all forms of loss [00:37:44] Special audience offer: Maximize Your Attention training and where to connect [00:37:46] Kym’s media recommendation (Dan Brown’s “The Secret of Secrets”) and favorite online find ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations. CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://swagtail.com/ GET KYM COCO'S SPECIAL OFFER: Name: Maximize your Attention Training A video training to maximize your attention and increase your energy, focus, and presence in daily life. The practical tips can be implemented right away to add harmony to your relationships and more time in your schedule from increased productivity. Value: $99 Special offer: free Link: Swagtail.com/podcast Note from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support. Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes. Why subscribe? Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listen Are you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com If you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guest Here are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-) For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69 Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590 Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofj For Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stone before that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors

  7. Jul 7

    Coming Out Later in Life Navigating Divorce and Identity with Andy Vargo

    If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/support In this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Andy Vargo about his journey of embracing personal identity and authenticity in adulthood. Andy, who hails from Tacoma, Washington, shares his story of coming out as gay at age 40 after decades of hiding his true self due to societal and familial expectations. This conversation explores the challenges of aligning your inner identity with your outward persona, the impact of masking on relationships and decision-making, and why living authentically can fundamentally transform your life. About Andy Vargo: Andy Vargo is a speaker, author, and life-change coach who helps individuals and organizations embrace their uniqueness and turn perceived weaknesses into strengths through his “Own Your Awkward” approach. After making significant life changes, including coming out at 40, he brings a deeply personal and relatable perspective to conversations around authenticity, growth, and leadership. Through his work, Andy blends humor, real-life experience, and practical tools to help people show up more confidently in both their personal and professional lives. Main Topics Covered: Navigating the process of coming out later in life: emotional challenges, family dynamics, and the obstacles of shedding years of masking.How growing up in a faith-based, traditional environment shapes identity and limits perceived options for self-expression.The ripple effects of hidden truths: how chronic masking leads to unhealthy relationships, work struggles, and poor boundaries.Finding and practicing authenticity—why embracing who you are frees up mental energy, increases decisiveness, and attracts true community.Shifting family and social relationships post-divorce and coming out, including the journey from initial upheaval to creating new support systems.The evolution of LGBTQ+ representation and acceptance, and how that changes the coming out experience for younger generations.Lessons on courage, vulnerability, and making big life changes—regardless of age or the “perfect timing.”Why sharing your story, even when it feels ordinary or uncomfortable, empowers others to embrace their unique truths. Timestamps: [00:00:41] Andy shares why Tacoma, Washington is home and what he loves about its community [00:02:06] Introducing the topic: identity and coming out at 40 [00:03:01] Raising teenagers while coming out; reflections on timing and imperfection [00:04:23] Andy opens up about always knowing his identity, masking, and struggling with labels [00:06:38] The absence of positive gay role models in youth and the impact of stereotypes [00:08:54] Marrying young, secrecy, and fear of being “found out” [00:09:41] How hiding identity led to unhealthy relationships and self-doubt [00:12:20] Universal struggles with authenticity and being seen [00:13:42] Shifts in societal attitudes toward LGBTQ+ youth—Andy’s observations as a parent [00:15:05] The reality of post-coming out: job loss, isolation, and starting over [00:17:16] Surviving the “empty elevator” and rebuilding after major life transitions [00:19:48] Family reactions: the complex dynamics of acceptance and adjustment [00:21:05] Why coming out can feel like the “easier” path vs. confronting unhealthy relationships [00:23:50] The end of marriage—a process, not an event [00:27:47] Relearning authenticity: giving up the exhaustive effort of masking [00:33:30] How authenticity makes everyday decisions easier and life more fulfilling [00:35:45] Andy’s motivation for sharing his story—helping others show up more authentically [00:39:54] Personal recommendations and resources for growth [00:40:32] Favorite tools: from podcast mics to foldable kayaks [00:43:14] Closing thoughts, ways to connect, and episode wrap-up ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations. CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://www.awkwardcareer.com/ GET ANDY'S SPECIAL OFFER: FREE Download: Discover Your Hidden Superpower A short, free worksheet to help people start identifying their own awkward traits and reframe them as something useful instead of something to hide. Click the link to access with a free download: https://www.awkwardcareer.com/discover-your-hidden-superpower-worksheet/ Note from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support. If you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guest Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes. Why subscribe? Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listen Are you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.com Here are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-) For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69 Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590 Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofj For Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stone before that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors

5
out of 5
63 Ratings

About

The Art of Imperfect Adulting is a podcast and streaming YouTube show for anyone who has ever looked at their own face peering back at them from a Zoom screen and thought: how did I get here, and what do I want to do next? This show is for you if life has taken a turn you didn't plan for and you're still working out what it means. Maybe it's a divorce that rewrote the story you thought you were living, or a health struggle including chronic illness, weight changes, or menopause that shifted everything. It could be a rapid unplanned professional shift like getting fired, laid off, or finally admitting that the corporate grind isn't compatible with the life you actually want. Perhaps your insomnia comes from worrying that you chose the wrong degree, didn't get the job, or that the path you were so sure about went somewhere you didn't intend. Or maybe you feel a sense of drowning in a caregiving season that is quietly consuming you like quicksand, whether you're showing up for a parent, a child, a spouse, or a sibling. It could be a sneaky adulting decision that feels like it should be easier, like choosing a school or curriculum for your kids that is keeping you up at night. Perhaps your Google search history is full of questions about how to move to a place that finally feels more like you, or how to stop putting down roots altogether and see what a life in motion actually looks like. If you've ever felt behind, off-script, or quietly wondering if you're the only one who finds this hard, you're not. This show exists to give you proof that change is possible, to be company for your journey, and offer the quiet relief that comes with being connected to like-minded people. We all know that real life doesn't come with an instruction manual. We also know that our real lives don't match the highlight reels we see on the red carpet or in our social media feeds. In a world where billions of bits of manufactured and altered information deluge us every day, the raw and honest stories of, “how did she do that?” are a welcome breath of fresh air. Each episode features honest conversations with guests sharing the choices and changes that shaped who they became, from unconventional career moves and unexpected reinventions to rebuilding after loss and choosing happiness on their own terms. These are not pitch decks, academic hypotheticals, or celebrity biopics. These are real accounts from real people who've been in the middle of it and stopped to share what they wish somebody had told them when they needed it most. What listeners come away with isn't a checklist, a hack or even a strategy. It's something harder to manufacture: a feeling that you’re not alone, a little more confidence in your own choices, and the quiet sense of belonging that comes from hearing someone else say out loud what you've been thinking. Your host is Amy Stone, a Gen X woman who knows what it means to be overlooked, underestimated, surprised by the impact of both small decisions and sudden life shifts, and expected to just figure it out. It turns out that might be exactly the right training for hosting a show about choices and change. She brings warmth, zero pretense, and a talent for drawing out the quiet turning points that rarely make it into anyone's highlight reel. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and be sure to join the email community at https://www.imperfectadulting.com

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