It's A Circus - Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of self care

Elsa Cherner

Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of self-care. Hosted by Elsa Marit, It’s a Circus pulls back the curtain on the beautiful chaos of parenting. Through raw conversations with mothers, entrepreneurs, and women of all walks, the show explores what it really means to raise kids while holding onto yourself. Each episode is part confession, part community — reminding you that you’re not alone in the madness. From the heartbreak and humor of matrescence to the little rituals that keep us sane, this podcast is equal parts relatable, vulnerable, and empowering. ✨ Motherhood may be a circus, but here you’ll find clarity, connection, and the confidence to step back into your own spotlight. Coterie Diapers - 20% off with code CHERNERhttps://glnk.io/r31p/elsa20Perelel The first OB/GYN Founded vitamin  - 15% off with code ELSAC15https://glnk.io/356m/elsac15✨ Subscribe for weekly episodes filled with honesty, humor, and connection.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.www.chernerbroscircus.com

  1. 4D AGO

    Renewed in Motherhood with Jessica

    Send a text Host Elsa welcomes board-certified nurse practitioner and hormone specialist Jessica Silver, who shares her path from labor-and-delivery nursing to founding Renewed You, a virtual hormone practice for women often dismissed in conventional care. Jessica discusses her motherhood journey, severe postpartum anxiety, years of debilitating 104° fevers that extensive specialist testing couldn’t explain until she traced them to ovulation and menstruation. She describes ectopic pregnancy detection after insisting on an ultrasound. The conversation covers bioidentical hormones, limitations of lab “normal” ranges, testosterone for women, peptides: Jessica currently serves clients in Florida and New York. 02:05 Meet Jessica And Mom Life 05:12 Pregnancy Symptoms And Baby Names 08:11 Miscarriage And Trying Again 12:32 COVID Pregnancy As A Nurse 16:23 Delivering As An L&D Nurse 21:17 Postpartum Anxiety And Breastfeeding 24:36 Mystery Fevers And Endless Testing 31:01 Hormones Behind The Fevers 36:32 Building Renewed You Clinic 41:42 Postpartum Plan With Progesterone 49:16 Why Hormone Issues Get Missed 51:09 Vaginal Estrogen Update 52:09 Flawed Hormone Study Fallout 54:25 Doctor Education Gap 55:52 Lab Ranges Versus Optimal 59:56 When To Get Checked 01:02:14 Advocating For Better Care 01:07:15 Perimenopause Estrogen Swings 01:09:32 Testosterone For Women 01:13:20 Peptides Explained 01:17:49 Self Care And Career Shift 01:22:31 Postpartum Anxiety Reality 01:31:32 Ectopic Pregnancy Wake Up 01:42:52 Advocacy For Moms 01:47:54 Where To Find Jess 01:48:23 Podcast Closing Message Jessica Silver is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) and hormone specialist who built her practice after experiencing firsthand what so many of her patients describe — feeling dismissed, misdiagnosed, and told everything was "fine" when it clearly wasn't. That experience became the foundation for ReNu'd You | Functional & Hormonal Optimization and The Signature Hormone Optimization Method™, a 9-month clinical partnership program designed to help high-achieving women identify and address hormone dysfunction before it becomes a crisis. Certified in advanced bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (ABHRT), Jessica combines clinical precision with a deeply personal approach — helping women finally get answers that match their experience and a plan that actually works. Follow Jessica:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_silver_np/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renud_you/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/renudyou Website: www.renudyou.com Free Hormone Clarity Assessment: https://hormoneclarityassessment.manus.space The Hormone Reset Blueprint: Thanks for listening to It’s a Circus Podcast — Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of Self care These stories remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. And if you’re ready to take the next step from conversation to transformation, explore Svea – The Beauty Edit. It’s my signature service that helps women edit the noise, simplify their routines, and reclaim confidence through radiant, effortless self-care.  🎙️ More stories: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/podcast  💄 Your Edit awaits: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/beauty-edit Embrace the chaos. Reclaim yourself.

    1h 49m
  2. MAR 11

    Hopeful and Honest in Motherhood with Kate

    Send a text Host Elsa introduces a candid “It’s a Circus” conversation with her friend Kate, a mom of four and realtor, about the realities of parenting, identity, and self-care. Kate shares her family story with husband Ryan, including mostly easy first pregnancy, harder later pregnancies, and the shock of an unplanned fourth baby after a delayed vasectomy, plus the strain of having four kids six-and-under. She describes moving from Philadelphia to Sarasota at 30 weeks pregnant for family support, living with her parents during a delayed home build, and surviving a newborn’s nightly “witching hour.” Kate reflects on work as an escape, quitting during COVID stress, starting “rage runs,” and later finding flexible balance through real estate. She also discusses postpartum anxiety, starting Lexapro, needing time away, and the importance of an equal, involved partner and supportive family. 00:00 Stay At Home Queens 00:10 Welcome To The Circus 00:33 Meet Kate Mom Of Four 02:19 First Baby And Early Memories 06:15 Pregnancy Highs And Lows 07:47 Fast Food And Feeling Sick 09:57 Two Under Two Reality 12:16 Surprise Fourth Baby 15:13 New Years Pregnancy Reveal 18:58 Overwhelm And Regret 22:18 Unexpected Big Brother Gift 24:40 Marriage Pact For Survival 26:50 COVID Quit And Need Help 28:15 Moving To Florida Fast 31:18 Thirty Weeks New Doctor 32:59 Living With Parents Chaos 35:54 Kids Adjust To New Baby 37:57 One To Two Was Hardest 43:14 Favorite Age Three 45:24 Career Before Stay Home 46:08 Back to Work Reality 48:19 Moving and Baby Two 49:56 Work as Identity 51:15 Daycare Costs Debate 52:52 COVID Career Breaking Point 54:51 Rage Runs and Me Time 57:58 Kids Growing Up Phase 01:02:37 Real Estate Reset 01:09:43 Girl Mom vs Boy Mom 01:14:05 Postpartum Anxiety Help 01:25:01 Meds and Mom Guilt 01:27:31 Co-Parenting Standards 01:32:52 Podcast Farewell Follow Kate on her IG: https://www.instagram.com/katekwiecinski_realtor/ Thanks for listening to It’s a Circus Podcast — Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of Self care These stories remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. And if you’re ready to take the next step from conversation to transformation, explore Svea – The Beauty Edit. It’s my signature service that helps women edit the noise, simplify their routines, and reclaim confidence through radiant, effortless self-care. 🎙️ More stories: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/podcast 💄 Your Edit awaits: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/beauty-edit Embrace the chaos. Reclaim yourself.

    1h 33m
  3. FEB 27

    Episode 50?!! Solo Episode with Elsa

    Send a text In the 50th episode of It’s a Circus podcast, Elsa, the host reflects on how the show reached this milestone in under a year and shares recurring themes from dozens of interviews about motherhood and womanhood. She explains that many women don’t lose ambition after becoming mothers—it can be buried to avoid looking selfish—and that restlessness and resentment can be signals to refill their own cup rather than evidence of failure. She highlights the tension of loving your kids while grieving who you were before, emphasizing that conflicting emotions like gratitude and grief can coexist without disclaimers. She reframes motherhood as the beginning of personal expansion and authority, describing how it strengthens and clarifies priorities, and invites listeners into a community where women can speak honestly and feel seen. 00:00 Episode 50 Celebration 01:03 Why This Podcast Exists 03:28 The Shared Motherhood Arc 04:40 Truth One Hidden Ambition 09:05 Truth Two Love And Grief 13:07 Truth Three Resentment Signals 16:50 Reframe Motherhood Expands You 20:18 Community Mission And Invitation 22:47 The Beauty Edit Offer 23:40 Final Thanks And Sendoff Thanks for listening to It’s a Circus Podcast — Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of Self care These stories remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. And if you’re ready to take the next step from conversation to transformation, explore Svea – The Beauty Edit. It’s my signature service that helps women edit the noise, simplify their routines, and reclaim confidence through radiant, effortless self-care. 🎙️ More stories: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/podcast 💄 Your Edit awaits: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/beauty-edit Embrace the chaos. Reclaim yourself.

    24 min
  4. FEB 25

    Honesty and Support in Motherhood and Beyond with Kavita

    Send a text Host Elsa introduces an episode of the It’s a Circus podcast featuring Kavita Tisdale, a corporate leader at Airbnb and mom to her nearly three-year-old daughter, Alia. Kavita shares her journey to motherhood, including years of trying to conceive, the emotional toll of fertility challenges, and advice to seek fertility education and support earlier. She describes the shock and joy of learning she was pregnant, the importance of community during fertility struggles and postpartum, and how personalized support can look different for different people. Kavita talks about a difficult pregnancy marked by constant vomiting and ER visits, her labor experience including a negative interaction with a nurse, and surprises after birth—including her daughter’s blonde hair and blue eyes and assumptions others made about their relationship. The conversation covers postpartum realities: painful breastfeeding, pumping every two hours, guilt around feeding, switching to formula, and the relief and improved well-being that came with changing her approach. Kavita also discusses the impact of her husband losing a close friend postpartum and how it shaped his focus on her mental health. She reflects on returning to work after a short maternity leave at Wayfair, challenges re-entering a role, layoffs, and how she ultimately found a supportive remote culture at Airbnb, including leadership that prioritized humanity during family crises. Kavita and Elsa discuss what makes working parenthood sustainable—intentional career choices, remote work, supportive managers, and an equal partnership—along with parenting goals centered on creating a safe, loving environment, teaching boundaries, and modeling empathy. Kavita shares that she and her husband strengthened their relationship through therapy early in marriage and ends with reflections on empathy as her word for motherhood, myths she questions about parenting language, and pride in building a joyful, present family life. 00:00 Fertility Fears and Dreams 00:19 Podcast Circus Intro 00:42 Meet Kavita and Her Journey 02:55 Trying to Conceive Reality 05:29 When Hope Gets Hard 09:26 Advice and Early Testing 12:40 The Positive Test Moment 16:15 How to Support Friends 25:22 Pregnancy Was Brutal 30:13 Birth Plan and Hospital Drama 35:03 Postpartum Feeding Struggles 45:23 Formula Choice and Mental Health 49:11 Returning to Work Challenges 50:44 Dropoff Guilt 51:39 Chasing Remote Work 52:26 Post Leave Whiplash 53:47 Airbnb Kindness Culture 55:44 Leading With Empathy 59:01 Equal Partnership Balance 01:02:17 Why Keep Working 01:07:33 Raising A Daughter 01:12:10 Boundaries And Bullying 01:15:45 Marriage Takes Work 01:22:42 Motherhood Is Empathy 01:29:34 Myths And Mom Guilt 01:35:08 Being Present Wins 01:38:13 Closing Thoughts Thanks for listening to It’s a Circus Podcast — Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of Self care These stories remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. And if you’re ready to take the next step from conversation to transformation, explore Svea – The Beauty Edit. It’s my signature service that helps women edit the noise, simplify their routines, and reclaim confidence through radiant, effortless self-care. 🎙️ More stories: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/podcast 💄 Your Edit awaits: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/beauty-edit Embrace the chaos. Reclaim yourself.

    1h 39m
  5. FEB 13

    I Have an Offer, Solo Episode with Elsa

    Send a text Join host Elsa as she delves into the real-life experiences of motherhood, womanhood, and self-care in this episode of It's a Circus podcast. Elsa shares insightful conversations focused on the transitions women go through, from childbirth to menopause, and how these journeys transform their lives. Drawing from her extensive background in the beauty industry, Elsa offers a unique service called 'The Beauty Edit,' helping women navigate the overwhelming world of cosmetics. Tune in to find community, support, and practical advice to help you feel more confident and connected. 00:00 Welcome to the Circus of Motherhood 00:23 Introducing the Podcast's Purpose 00:47 The Beauty of Motherhood Transitions 04:27 Elsa's Journey in the Beauty Industry 07:26 The Evolution of Beauty and Self-Care 09:44 Introducing the Beauty Edit Service 10:56 Continuing the Conversation 12:16 Final Thoughts and Farewell Follow Elsa's journey with Svea the Beauty Edit IG: https://www.instagram.com/sveathebeautyedit/ Thanks for listening to It’s a Circus Podcast — Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of Self care These stories remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. And if you’re ready to take the next step from conversation to transformation, explore Svea – The Beauty Edit. It’s my signature service that helps women edit the noise, simplify their routines, and reclaim confidence through radiant, effortless self-care. 🎙️ More stories: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/podcast 💄 Your Edit awaits: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/beauty-edit Embrace the chaos. Reclaim yourself.

    13 min
  6. FEB 11

    Embracing the Energetics of Motherhood with Elyse

    Send a text Join host Elsa as she delves deep into powerful and honest conversations with Elyse about the transformative journeys of womanhood, motherhood, and self-care. Elyse shares her personal stories of miscarriages, pregnancy, and a near-death experience, which all contributed to her understanding of womb wisdom and intuitive gifts. Together, they explore the intersection of business, spirituality, and parenting, offering invaluable insights on managing postpartum challenges, asking for help, and balancing divine masculine and feminine energies. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that you're never alone and your body and spirit are resilient. Perfect for anyone navigating motherhood, seeking deeper spiritual connection, or looking for inspiration in their personal and professional lives. 00:00 Empowering Women Through Pain and Resilience 00:31 Welcome to the Circus: Motherhood, Womanhood, and Self-Care 00:54 Introducing Elyse: A Magical Connection 02:24 Technical Difficulties and Warm Welcomes 06:03 Elyse's Journey: From Psychic Child to Spiritual Guide 10:22 Balancing Business and Feminine Energy 20:18 Motherhood as a Portal to Intuition and Growth 51:13 Navigating Postpartum Challenges 54:05 Navigating Early Parenthood and Relocation 54:58 The Challenges of Parenting and Health Scares 55:37 Discovering Network Spinal Care 01:00:23 The Journey Through Ectopic Pregnancy 01:19:23 Embracing Womb Wisdom 01:23:46 Philosophy on Raising Boys 01:29:15 Empowering Women in Business 01:38:00 Creating Space for Self-Discovery 01:45:39 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Connect with Elyse:  https://www.instagram.com/elyse.falzone/ https://elysefalzone.com/ Elyse Falzone is an International Business Energetics Strategist and Keynote Speaker. She is the creator and host of The Sacred CEO Podcast and founder of the Intuitive Intelligence Blueprint™. With over 20 years of experience as an entrepreneur and advisor, Elyse has built and led multiple businesses across wellness, retail, luxury services, network marketing, entertainment and business development, while facilitating international retreats and leadership trainings worldwide. She is known for her Audit, Align, Ascend™ methodology and Business Energetics Audits, helping leaders uncover unseen patterns impacting performance, decision-making, and growth. Her work equips executives, founders, and visionary women with strategic clarity and embodied leadership designed to create immediate momentum and long-term legacy. Thanks for listening to It’s a Circus Podcast — Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of Self care These stories remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. And if you’re ready to take the next step from conversation to transformation, explore Svea – The Beauty Edit. It’s my signature service that helps women edit the noise, simplify their routines, and reclaim confidence through radiant, effortless self-care. 🎙️ More stories: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/podcast 💄 Your Edit awaits: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/beauty-edit Embrace the chaos. Reclaim yourself.

    1h 51m
  7. FEB 6

    Finding Examples, Solo Episode with Elsa

    Send a text In this episode of 'It's a Circus', host Elsa shares her personal journey of navigating parenting and entrepreneurship. Battling through an under-the-weather day, Elsa emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with individuals who embody the life you aspire to live. She discusses how aligning with like-minded people, whether in business or personal life, can bring about inspiration and growth. Elsa provides insights on making new friends, the value of networking groups like the Business Blend Collective, and the impact of positive community interactions. This episode is a reminder that we are not alone in our journeys and highlights the significant role our social circles play in helping us achieve our goals. 00:00 Welcome to It's a Circus! 00:21 Personal Reflections and Inspirations 02:32 The Power of Surrounding Yourself with the Right People 04:34 Setting Goals and Seeking Positive Environments 06:22 The Importance of Community and Connection 07:12 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement The Rise of an Icon in Motherhood and Beyond with Kaye https://open.spotify.com/episode/3PuJ9d58qseeWda68uJ3zK?si=GmyI80xHRmiA0WdnBP-unQ Thanks for listening to It’s a Circus Podcast — Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of Self care These stories remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. And if you’re ready to take the next step from conversation to transformation, explore Svea – The Beauty Edit. It’s my signature service that helps women edit the noise, simplify their routines, and reclaim confidence through radiant, effortless self-care. 🎙️ More stories: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/podcast 💄 Your Edit awaits: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/beauty-edit Embrace the chaos. Reclaim yourself.

    8 min
  8. FEB 4

    Navigating the Unexpected in Motherhood with Jamie

    Send a text In this heartfelt episode of 'It's a Circus,' host Elsa dives deep into real conversations about the unpredictability and challenges of parenthood with her long-time friend Jamie. Jamie shares her personal journey into motherhood, including the joy of raising her 14-month-old son Jackson while anticipating the arrival of her second child. She opens up about her struggles with miscarriages, postpartum anxiety, and the realities of being a type A mom. Together, they discuss the complexities of balancing career and family life, finding support systems, and the unexpected twists that come with raising children. Tune in for an honest and relatable discussion that reminds us all that it’s perfectly fine not to have everything figured out. 00:00 Introduction and Host's Perspective 00:44 Welcoming the Guest: Jamie's Background 01:39 Jamie’s Journey into Motherhood 05:12 Challenges and Misconceptions 20:36 Balancing Career and Family 35:06 Pregnancy and Postpartum Experiences 47:13 The Unexpected Wardrobe Challenges 49:02 Preparing for the Second Baby 52:35 Balancing Attention Between Kids 57:28 Navigating Parenting Challenges 57:58 The Importance of Over-Preparation 59:36 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Parenthood 01:18:20 The Dynamics of Being a Boy Mom 01:25:32 Reflecting on Parenting and Personal Growth 01:28:29 Closing Thoughts and Encouragement Thanks for listening to It’s a Circus Podcast — Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of Self care These stories remind you that you’re not alone in the chaos. And if you’re ready to take the next step from conversation to transformation, explore Svea – The Beauty Edit. It’s my signature service that helps women edit the noise, simplify their routines, and reclaim confidence through radiant, effortless self-care. 🎙️ More stories: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/podcast 💄 Your Edit awaits: https://www.chernerbroscircus.com/beauty-edit Embrace the chaos. Reclaim yourself.

    1h 29m
5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Unfiltered stories of motherhood, identity, and the art of self-care. Hosted by Elsa Marit, It’s a Circus pulls back the curtain on the beautiful chaos of parenting. Through raw conversations with mothers, entrepreneurs, and women of all walks, the show explores what it really means to raise kids while holding onto yourself. Each episode is part confession, part community — reminding you that you’re not alone in the madness. From the heartbreak and humor of matrescence to the little rituals that keep us sane, this podcast is equal parts relatable, vulnerable, and empowering. ✨ Motherhood may be a circus, but here you’ll find clarity, connection, and the confidence to step back into your own spotlight. Coterie Diapers - 20% off with code CHERNERhttps://glnk.io/r31p/elsa20Perelel The first OB/GYN Founded vitamin  - 15% off with code ELSAC15https://glnk.io/356m/elsac15✨ Subscribe for weekly episodes filled with honesty, humor, and connection.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.www.chernerbroscircus.com

You Might Also Like