Episode #5: Cuban-born actress Ilza Ponko joins us as she takes us through her thrilling journey from her multicultural roots in Cuba and Moscow to the Hollywood spotlight. Ilsa opens up about how her early love for music and acting became an emotional sanctuary during her formative years filled with challenges. From her acting breakthrough in Colombia with "Burn Notice" to sharing the silver screen with Kevin Bacon in "The Darkness," Ilsa's story is a testament to resilience and passion. She reflects on her favorite role as Irina Kilichenko in "La Piloto 2," offering insights into how her diverse experiences have shaped her as a woman and mother.

Motherhood is a journey filled with highs and lows, and this episode doesn't shy away from the raw reality of it. We share an honest account from a mother who faced the relentless exhaustion of sleep deprivation as she navigated caring for her restless 11-month-old daughter, Emma. The turning point came with the help of a sleep consultant, Tatiana, who provided the guidance needed to restore balance. Through tears and resilience, the importance of self-care practices like yoga and meditation is underscored, highlighting the emotional liberation they provide. The story is one of hope, showing that seeking support can vastly improve both a mother's and child's well-being.

As we navigate the world of sleep routines, discover the practical steps for improving infant sleep habits. We discuss the significance of recognizing wake windows and sleep signals to help little ones like Emma self-soothe and sleep independently. Our conversation shines a light on the personal choices involved in parenting, from pacifier use to implementing consistent bedtime routines. The episode celebrates the challenges and triumphs of motherhood, emphasizing the value of intuition and community support. As milestones are reached, we revel in the shared journey of parenting, highlighting the beauty and complexity of raising a child.

Chapters:

(00:00) Parenting Experience With Ilza Ponko
(09:24) Overcoming Motherhood Desperation and Exhaustion
(18:56) Transitioning to Better Sleep Habits
(29:15) Teaching Babies Self-Soothing Techniques
(35:33) Soothing Mechanisms and Pacifier Use
(43:31) Navigating the Challenges of Motherhood

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