On my podcast It’s a Lot this week, I chatted with Champagne Manley, owner of Cakedd by Champ, mom, and very creative human who has taken an unconventional path to where she is today. It was a fun recording session and felt like we could’ve talked for hours! We explored some of the low points of the years where they were deep in alcoholism, what it was like to attend their first AA meeting, and how working out has helped replace some of the feelings alcohol gave them. She also shared why she suddenly shut down her popular jewelry business, Pop Shop Jewelry (hint: running it wasn’t compatible with being present with her newborn in the NICU), and why becoming a cake and cookie baker and artist was actually a way better fit.

In the second half of our conversation, we discuss what happens when your baby shows up 10 weeks early, the joyful parts of raising a toddler, the lore of Baby Shark, and more.