You Don’t Have To Choose Between Motherhood And Music
Mother’s Day is the perfect occasion to reflect on the unique challenges and triumphs faced by women who aspire to build a music career while raising children. In a heartfelt episode of the Profitable Musician Show, Bree Noble shares her personal journey navigating motherhood alongside her music career — and offers encouragement and practical advice to fellow musician-moms at every stage.
Listen to the episode here:
The Myth: You Have to Choose Between Family and Dreams
One misconception that stubbornly persists is the idea that becoming a mother means setting aside your music aspirations. Bree Noble acknowledges that many women believe they must pause — or even abandon — their musical goals once children enter the picture. She consistently hears from women who assume that pregnancy or parenting young children will make it impossible to continue making music or performing .
Much of this stems from societal expectations. Bree Noble discusses how mothers are often told, overtly or subtly, to prioritize everyone else’s needs above their own—and that guilt is a frequent companion as a result . There’s pressure to conform to a certain idea of what a “good mother” looks like, with little room for pursuing personal dreams .
A Different Vision: Motherhood and Music Can Coexist
Far from believing motherhood limits your career, Bree Noble argues it can actually make your career more intentional, creative, and meaningful . Having less time means greater clarity—you have to focus on what matters and let go of distractions. “It really crystallized what I needed to do because I only had so much time and so much energy and so much headspace to do it,” she explains .
Importantly, Bree Noble asserts that being a role model who pursues her passions is itself a profound gift to children. By showing them what it means to chase your calling, you’re teaching by example that it’s possible to fulfill both personal and family goals , .
Strategies for Balancing Both Worlds
How can moms shape a music career that supports their family life? Bree Noble offers several tried-and-tested strategies:
- Seek family-friendly venues and opportunities: Instead of late-night bars and restaurants, look for performances at women’s groups, mothers’ organizations, community events, festivals, churches, and other day-time venues .
- Involve your support network: Bring relatives to help with childcare on the road, or trade favors with other parents. Bree Noble frequently brought her mom along to gigs and relied on friends for after-school care , .
- Structure work around your children’s schedules: Use early mornings, nap times, and pockets of free time for songwriting, booking, practicing, or admin tasks . Efficiency becomes second nature.
- Let your kids be part of the journey: From helping with merchandise tables to working in your business as they grow, children can learn the value of entrepreneurship and commitment from your example , , .
Embracing an Evolving Dream
Motherhood inevitably changes the shape of a music career — and that’s okay. Bree Noble advises that the vision you had before may look different now, and success doesn’t mean following the traditional path . Instead, mothers have the opportunity to create a career that is uniquely their own, one that fits around their children and derives purpose from both family and artistry .
Her closing message: when you become a mom, your musical dreams don’t have to end. In many cases, they become more aligned, more fulfilling, and deeper than you could have ever imagined .
Important Links Mentioned In This Episode
- Bree Noble — Host and founder of the Profitable Musician Show
- Profitable Musician Show archives
- Tips for balancing a music career and motherhood (referenced throughout episode)
- Stories of musician-moms and their family-friendly career strategies
Looking for more resources or to connect? Check out previous episodes of the Profitable Musician Show for insight and real-world strategies from women thriving in music and motherhood!
