In Episode 19 of The Billable Mom Podcast, host Cari Rincker, Esq., sits down with Emily Donohoe, owner and lead photographer of Pixels by Emily, to talk about motherhood, mental health, and growing a successful creative business. The episode—titled Finding Life’s Balance Through the Lens—is packed with real stories, mindset shifts, and tools for women trying to do it all. It’s a must-listen for entrepreneurial moms seeking harmony between business, burnout, and joy. Below, we share how creative moms can balance business, burnout and joy.
From CPA to Camera: Emily’s Unexpected Career Pivot
Emily shares how one photography class changed everything. Formerly a CPA, she transitioned to full-time photography after discovering her passion for storytelling through the lens. Today, her business—Pixels by Emily—has become a go-to for families seeking magical, high-end portraits (including a wildly popular Santa Experience!).
Emily’s success didn’t happen by accident. She paid off her investment in just one month and credits much of her momentum to knowing her niche, staying focused, and not trying to be everything to everyone.
Mental Health, Motherhood & Support Systems
Emily bravely opens up about her experience with postpartum OCD, a rarely discussed but deeply impactful condition. She talks about returning to work during tax season while struggling with mental health, and the pivotal role her husband and family played in helping her through.
Her story is a reminder to working moms everywhere: you don’t have to do it alone. Support, therapy, and rest aren’t luxuries—they’re necessary.
Business Books That Changed Emily’s Life
Emily credits several books and podcasts with helping her reframe failure, success, and growth. Whether you’re just starting your business or trying to reclaim your energy as a creative entrepreneur, these are gold:
📖 10x is Easier Than 2x by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy – The book that sparked Emily’s daily 20-minute reading habit and completely reframed how she approaches growth.
📖 Who Not How by Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy – A must-read on building support systems instead of doing it all yourself.
📖 The Five Resets by Dr. Aditi Nerurkar, M.D. – A transformational guide for women looking to take back control of their health and energy.
📖 The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins – A go-to for taking action in high-pressure moments.
📖 The High 5 Habit by Mel Robbins – Learn how to rewire your brain with a simple daily practice that builds self-confidence.
📖 Think Like a Monk by Jay Shetty – Insights on calm, clarity, and purpose from a modern-day mindfulness coach.
📖 8 Rules of Love by Jay Shetty – A practical guide for navigating relationships with self-awareness and compassion.
🎧 Mel Robbins Podcast – Daily motivation and mindset tips.
🎧 On Purpose with Jay Shetty – Purpose-driven insights for modern life.
Emily’s Life Philosophy: Work Hard. Recharge Harder.
Emily and her husband make it a point to slow down each summer by relocating to their happy place—St. John. They work remotely in the mornings and unwind in the afternoons, soaking in turquoise waters and family time.
Her message is simple but powerful: If you don’t recharge, you will burn out. Period.
Cari Rincker’s Favorite Books for Billable Moms
As always, Cari shares her go-to resources that help busy moms feel less overwhelmed and more in control:
📖 Fair Play by Eve Rodsky – Redesign household roles with clarity and cooperation.
📖 Atomic Habits by James Clear – The ultimate guide to creating small habits that make a big difference.
📖 Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist – Learn to slow down and live more intentionally.
📖 Drop the Ball by Tiffany Dufu – Let go of unrealistic expectations and redefine success on your terms.
📖 Burnout by Emily & Amelia Nagoski – A science-backed look at stress and why it’s critical to close the stress cycle.
📖 Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod – Transform your mornings to maximize your potential every day.
Productivity Recommendations That Were Not Mentioned in This Episode
🗂️ Skylight Calendar – A smart family calendar that syncs from your phone and keeps everyone on the same page.
⏱️ TimeCube Timer – A visual time-blocking tool that boosts productivity and focus—for moms and kids.
Cari’s Recommendations for Staying Fit
Cari loves her Peloton Treadmill, which you can find on Amazon. Cari also loves to Yoga at home and recommends this
Where to Find Emily
Want to see Emily’s work or book a magical session?
📸 Website: www.pixelsbyemily.com
📱 Instagram & Facebook: @pixelsbyemily
Listen to the Full Episode
🎧 Listen to Episode 19: Finding Life’s Balance Through the Lens
👉 thebillablemom.com/finding-lifes-balance-through-the-lens
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