I wanted to really break down the “it’s hard but it’s great” phrase that I feel we so often hear when it comes to this space - I wanted someone to tell me / talk deep about exactly why it’s hard, and why it’s great. In diving into detail with the whys, I hope that this convo (and others) can begin to shed some light for women / caregivers in the arts space.

In this convo, I chat to operatic soprano Samantha Crawford, about the practical (and emotional) realities of having a baby, as a freelance performer. Sam generously and vulnerably shares her experience - hopefully this can add to an informed, open, honest dialogue about parenthood in the arts.

We talk about:
- Unexpected joys of parenthood.
- Vulnerability.
- Community.
- Positive dialogue around parenting.
- “The fourth trimester”
- Living away from family support.
- Preparations and plans.
- Boundaries, communication, and the power of asking for support.
- Financial planning.
- Travelling with a baby.
- Reaching out when lonely.
- Specific joys, and specific challenges.
- Real / perceived influence of pregnancy on auditioning / getting cast.
- The experience of women in this space / women in opera.
- Pressures.
- Being kind to yourself, and in the moment.
- The power of conversation.
- Women’s power.
- Some practicalities, when it comes to breastfeeding on the job.
- Auditioning after giving birth.
- Some helpful resources.

Resources mentioned:
- “SWAP’ra” https://www.swap-ra.org/
- The singer’s guide to complete health, Anthony F. Jahn
- The positive birth book, Milli Hill

Guest details:
IG: @samanthacrawfordmusic
FB: https://m.facebook.com/samanthacrawfordsoprano
Twitter: @S_H_Crawford
Website: Samanthacrawford.com

Disclaimer: As ever, please bear in mind that this is just a conversation between two individuals; your feelings and experience may differ from what we discuss. My hope is that this conversation can help you more deeply understand and converse about what’s most important to you / what your feelings are on this topic; everything is valid, and there’s space here for everyone.

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