We recently connected with Stephanie Karlubian and have shared our conversation below.
Stephanie, thrilled to have you on the platform as I think our readers can really benefit from your insights and experiences. In particular, we’d love to hear about how you think about burnout, avoiding or overcoming burnout, etc.
Motherhood has a way of stretching us in every direction — body, mind, and heart. As a mom of two, currently pregnant with my third, and the owner of New Mom School in Westlake Village, I’ve learned that burnout isn’t just about exhaustion; it’s about disconnection. There were times where I felt completely drained — trying to show up for my family, my business, and my community — while quietly wondering where I had gone in the process.
At first, I thought I just needed to push harder, organize better, or “get it together.” But what I’ve come to understand is that burnout isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a whisper from within asking for gentleness. It’s our body and spirit saying, “You’ve been strong for too long without enough rest.”
Running a business that supports new moms while walking through my own motherhood journey has been humbling. It’s easy to feel pressure to model balance and grace, but the truth is, balance isn’t about having everything perfect. Some days, the dishes stay in the sink, and the emails wait until tomorrow — and that’s okay. I’ve learned to celebrate the small wins: a deep breath before chaos, a quiet cup of tea, or asking for help without guilt.
As mothers, we often carry the invisible load — nurturing everyone around us while forgetting to nurture ourselves. I’ve had to remind myself that I’m not meant to be an entire village. It’s okay to lean on others, to say no, to rest, and to accept help as an act of love, not weakness.
Through my own experience with burnout, I’ve found deep purpose in my work with New Mom School. We provide not just education, but connection — a space where women can show up as they are and feel seen, heard, and supported. Every mother deserves that kind of care.
To any mom who feels like she’s running on empty, I want you to know this: You are not alone, and you are not failing. You’re simply human — loving, giving, and tired. You deserve the same compassion you offer everyone else. Rest when you can, ask for help, and remember that your worth isn’t measured by how much you do, but by how deeply you love.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
New Mom School is more than just a place—it’s a community built from the heart. It’s where new mothers come to feel seen, supported, and understood during one of the most transformative times of their lives. At New Mom School, we believe that motherhood was never meant to be done alone. Through expert-led classes, open conversations, and genuine connection, we help moms navigate every stage of their journey—from pregnancy to toddlerhood—with confidence and care.
Our thoughtfully designed courses: Newborn, Infant, Rising Toddler, and Second Time Mom are led by trusted professionals with classes blending practical guidance with emotional support, helping moms not only learn the “how” but also feel deeply understood in the “why.”
It’s a space where new friends become family, where tears are welcomed, and where laughter reminds you that you’re not alone. Every mom who walks through our doors is met with compassion, encouragement, and the reassurance that she’s doing an incredible job—even on the days that feel impossible.
New Mom School isn’t just about education—it’s about empowerment, healing, and rediscovering yourself as a woman and mother. It’s where you come to find your village and your confidence, one heartfelt moment at a time.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, there are three things that have made the biggest impact on my journey — both as a mom of two (soon to be three!) and as the owner of New Mom School in Westlake Village.
Compassion — for myself and for others. Motherhood has taught me to be gentle with myself, to let go of perfection, and to show up authentically — even on the messy days.
Resilience — because, let’s be honest, some days feel impossible. But every time I got back up, trusted my gut, and kept going, I grew stronger — as a mom, a woman, and a business owner.
And finally, knowledge — understanding what new moms truly need during such a vulnerable season. It’s what inspired me to open my New Mom School location, where we educate, connect, and empower moms to feel confident and supported.
Each of these qualities continues to shape me — as I navigate motherhood, pregnancy, and entrepreneurship all at once — and I’m so grateful for the lessons that come with each stage. 💛
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When you’re a new mom, feeling overwhelmed can sneak up on you in the quiet moments—or hit hard in the chaos. It’s completely normal, and you’re not alone. Motherhood is beautiful, but it’s also a massive life shift that requires support, compassion, and time to adjust. Here are some strategies that can truly help when the overwhelm sets in:
1. Pause and Breathe (Literally).
When you feel your chest tighten or your mind racing, stop and take a few slow, deep breaths. Inhale through your nose, exhale through your mouth. Even just one minute of deep breathing helps reset your nervous system. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so grounding yourself first is essential.
2. Ask for (and Accept) Help.
You don’t have to do it all. Whether it’s asking your partner to take the baby for a bit, accepting a meal from a friend, or hiring help if possible—say yes. It doesn’t make you weak; it makes you human. Let people show up for you.
3. Lower the Bar.
Your home doesn’t need to look perfect. The laundry can wait. What matters most is your wellbeing and your baby’s. Give yourself permission to do less. The season you’re in is temporary, and rest is productive too.
4. Get Out of the House.
A simple walk outside, coffee with a friend, or attending a mommy-and-me class can do wonders. Fresh air and a change of scenery remind you that there’s a world beyond the four walls of motherhood—and you’re still part of it.
5. Connect with Other Moms.
This is one of the most powerful tools for new mothers. When you talk with other moms who get it, the weight lifts. You realize you’re not failing—you’re just experiencing what’s real and hard. That’s why I brought New Mom School to my community—to bring moms together for connection, education, and support through every stage of early motherhood.
6. Take Care of Your Mind and Body.
Nourish yourself. Drink water, eat something that fuels you, stretch your body, and sleep whenever you can. Even small self-care actions signal to your brain that you matter too.
7. Give Yourself Grace.
You are learning an entirely new role while healing physically and emotionally. Be as gentle with yourself as you are with your baby. You’re doing your best—and that is enough.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.newmomschool.com/westlake-village-ca
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newmomschool_westlakevillage
- Other: [email protected]
Image Credits
Little Studio Photography (family photo)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
