#39: From Sleep Schedules to Selfhood: Navigating Modern Motherhood, ft. Kismet Nakai cover art

#39: From Sleep Schedules to Selfhood: Navigating Modern Motherhood, ft. Kismet Nakai

#39: From Sleep Schedules to Selfhood: Navigating Modern Motherhood, ft. Kismet Nakai

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 In this episode, we sit down with photographer and conscious parent Kismet Nakai. Together, we unpack the raw, real, and deeply human experience of motherhood — from the early months of sleep deprivation to navigating identity shifts, partnership dynamics, and parenting philosophies in modern India.Kismet candidly shares her journey of raising her daughter Vera — with structure, warmth, a sense of humour, and most importantly, grace for herself. This episode offers a blueprint for parents who are seeking permission to do things differently, tune out the noise, and lean into what truly works for their family.🎧 Why You Should ListenYou’ll hear Kismet reflect on:The tension between structure and surrenderMaking peace with asking for helpBreaking the myth of “perfect parenting”Co-parenting as equal partners (and calling out the praise gap)The small things that make big differences — like a consistent sleep scheduleLetting go of comparison cultureTeaching children to be emotionally aware, resilient, and curious💬 Notable Quotes from Kismet“There should not be this thing that, ‘Oh, he’s such an involved father.’ No—he IS the father.”“You don’t see a 15-year-old with a pacifier. So, it’s fine.”“Every mother goes through some sort of loss of self. It’s impossible not to feel that at some point.”“Just... enjoy them. This moment. Right now.”“If you’re chasing that sameness, then this is not what you should do.”“There are only 18 summers with your kids. Seven have already gone.”🧠 Practical Takeaways for ListenersSleep is sacred – Kismet swears by sleep training and shares how it transformed her parenting experience. Don't wait too long to create sleep rhythms that work for everyone.Baby-led everything – From weaning to routine-setting, Kismet lets her daughter take the lead, introducing trust and agency early.Get help, guilt-free – Whether it's a nanny, a lactation consultant, or paid sleep support — if it helps you show up better, it's worth it.Don’t fear mess – Dirty floors, food flinging, emotional outbursts — it’s all a part of healthy development.Build your village – Kismet is part of a mom group that celebrates different choices. Find yours or build one!Let go of the “old you” – Embrace the evolution. Trying to “bounce back” to your pre-parent self is not just unrealistic — it can steal joy from the now.Humour helps – A light heart can shift even the most stressful days. Laugh often, especially at yourself📚 Resources & ReferencesTaking Cara Babies – Baby Sleep Courses (https://takingcarababies.com)— a resource Kismet recommends investing inThe Danish Way of Parenting by Jessica Joelle Alexander & Iben Sandahl — philosophies that echo Kismet’s approach to emotional intelligence and independenceLa Leche League International (https://llli.org)— global support network for breastfeeding👤 About the Guest Kismet Nakai is a photographer, storyteller, and deeply intentional parent. Based in Chandigarh, she brings a thoughtful, nuanced voice to both her artistic work and her parenting choices. Kismet's approach to motherhood is rooted in self-awareness, respect for the child, and a refusal to perform perfection. Whether she’s experimenting with baby-led weaning or navigating modern co-parenting roles, she shows up with honesty, humility, and humor.📱Follow Kismet on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kisjayenn💬 Join the Conversation🔔 Review & Subscribe: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and family!💖 Follow Us:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenthootwithneha/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/parenthoot/☕ Support Us: https://buymeacoffee.com/gargneha Your support helps keep the show running.👋 Join our WhatsApp Community!🔗 https://chat.whatsapp.com/CHdbb6XkpSt5hBR4KN58qQ💬 For updates, reflections, and real talk on parenting, life, and everything in between.
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