We had the good fortune of connecting with Carolyn Larsen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carolyn, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
Honestly, showing up. It’s as simple as that. You show up for something and that’s half the battle. Even when it’s hard or inconvenient, you show up and that is what makes the biggest difference. You can’t possibly succeed if you don’t try.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have transitioned from a professional career as an occupational therapist to a full time mother. I have made it my mission to help other moms and new families know that there are resources available and that they are not alone navigating the challenges of the postpartum period. It’s been challenging to let go of my identity as a professional to the role of a mother. However, I am grateful to have the opportunity to stay home with my children. I always wished my mom could have stayed home with me and I’m delighted to be able to stay home with my children. It has had its own challenges and that is why I think it’s so important to advocate for moms and new families who may be experiencing difficulties postpartum. It’s important to recognize that it’s okay to ask for help. It doesn’t make you weak, it makes you aware of what you need. With the help of my husband we came up with 50 Ways to Adopt a Mom, which focuses on specific and easy ways to help moms in a meaningful way because parenthood is hard!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, as a mom of littles, I’d say it’s all got to be family friendly experiences! These are some fantastic places:

•McCormick Stillman Railroad Park
•The double decker carousel at Superstition Springs Mall
•Arizona Museum of Natural History
•Golfland & Sunsplash
•Phoenix Zoo
•Organ Stop Pizza
• Sugar Bowl

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My husband, Zach. He pushed me and supported me in all my Mrs. Arizona International endeavors and encouraged me to reach out and support other moms navigating postpartum . Postpartum Support International has helped me reach others who have experienced postpartum depression and helping them find help and resources.

Website: https://motheringmothers247.wordpress.com/adopt-a-mom-adoptamomtoday/

Instagram: @mothering_mothers_

Image Credits
Sonja Stafford Photography Golden Captures Photography Paula Preston

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.