Reinventing Motherhood: Maggie Pouplis’s Journey to Authenticity and Empowerment

Maggie Pouplis’s story is one of reinvention, resilience, and heart. At 50, she made the bold decision to leave behind a successful career in advertising and pursue a path that aligned more deeply with her purpose—becoming a parent coach and children’s book author. Inspired by her son and guided by a desire to be the best version of herself, Maggie embraced the challenges of this new journey with grace. Her journey highlights the power of living authentically, building a supportive community, and, above all, reparenting herself so she can show up fully for her child.

1. What inspired you to reinvent yourself at 50 and pursue a new career path as a parent coach and children’s book writer?

Well, let’s just say when my son came into my life, it was like someone hit the reset button on my priorities—and I didn’t even know I had one! Suddenly, the long hours and high-stress environment of advertising seemed less like a career and more like an elaborate torture device. I realized that if I wanted to give my son the best of me, I had to be the best version of myself. The path wasn’t easy—cue late-night study sessions and missing out on social events—but nothing worth having ever is. Interestingly, some of the most genuine support came from people I hadn’t spoken to in years, which was a beautiful surprise. It turns out, when you start living authentically, you attract the right kind of energy. My son was my North Star, guiding me to where I was always meant to be.

2. Can you share more about your journey of reparenting yourself and how it has influenced your role as a mother?

Reparenting myself? Let’s just say it was like trying to teach an old dog some new, emotionally-healthy tricks. But in all seriousness, I knew that if I didn’t tackle the baggage from my own upbringing, I’d risk passing it down to my son—and that was not an option. The process was tough, like unraveling a lifetime’s worth of bad knitting, but incredibly rewarding. I became a more empathetic, patient parent, not just reacting but truly understanding where both my son and I were coming from. And in the process, I’ve built a family dynamic where honesty and love reign supreme—yes, even during the toddler tantrums! Hey, I go through tantrums as well, so!

3. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning from a Creative Director to a parent coach?

Oh, where do I start? Imagine jumping off a cliff and hoping you packed a parachute—that’s what it felt like leaving behind a successful career to start from scratch. I had to redefine myself professionally and learn to navigate financial uncertainties, all while juggling the demands of motherhood. And then there were the skeptics—those who couldn’t understand why I wasn’t spending my nights out networking over cocktails or schmoozing at industry events. But I had a new priority: my family. And honestly? It felt liberating to say, “Thanks, but no thanks.” What kept me going was the unexpected support from old friends who reappeared just when I needed them, proving that when you follow your heart, the universe has a funny way of sending the right people your way.

4. How did you cope with the disappointment of being let down by people you trusted during this period of reinvention?

Dealing with disappointment is like eating a lemon—sour, unpleasant, but sometimes necessary. It stung to be let down by people I thought I could count on. But life has a way of balancing things out, and for every person who fell away, someone else stepped up. Some of my most steadfast supporters were people I hadn’t connected with in years, but they came back into my life with such authenticity and love that it felt like a balm for the soul. Therapy helped too, giving me the tools to process the hurt and focus on the relationships that truly mattered. I learned that it’s okay to let go of those who aren’t on the same page—sometimes, you just have to prune the tree to help it grow.

5. What role has therapy played in helping you navigate these significant life changes?

Therapy? It’s been my lifeline, my emotional GPS guiding me through the rocky terrain of major life changes. It helped me unpack the baggage I’d been carrying around for years, set healthy boundaries, and embrace my authentic self without apology. When the going got tough, therapy was my safe space to vent, cry, and strategize. It also helped me appreciate the relationships that lifted me up rather than dragged me down. Honestly, I think everyone should have a therapist on speed dial—it’s been instrumental in helping me not just survive, but thrive during this reinvention.

6. How has your experience as a sole parent influenced your approach to writing children’s therapeutic books?

Being a sole parent has given me a front-row seat to the challenges and joys of raising a child, especially an adopted one. My experience has deeply influenced how I write—my books aren’t just stories, they’re tools to help children and parents navigate complex emotions and family dynamics. I want my son to see himself in the stories, to feel understood and supported. And if other families can benefit from our journey, even better! Writing these books has been a way to create a safe space for children, like my son, to explore their feelings in a way that’s both comforting and fun.

7. What advice would you give to women who feel trapped by societal pressures or toxic family ties?

First of all, let me say this: you are not a bonsai tree! You don’t have to stay in a pot that’s too small for you. It’s okay to outgrow the expectations others have placed on you. Trust yourself, set boundaries, and remember that it’s your life—live it on your terms. There will always be people who don’t understand your choices, and that’s fine. What matters is that you’re building a life that makes your heart smile and soothes your soul. Surround yourself with those who get it, who lift you up and celebrate your growth. And don’t be afraid to let go of relationships that no longer serve you—sometimes, the best thing you can do is prune the dead weight.

8. How do you balance your personal growth with your responsibilities as a mother, especially as a sole parent?

Balance is like walking a tightrope—some days you’re graceful, other days you’re just trying not to fall off. As a sole parent, I’ve learned to prioritize and let go of the illusion of perfection. My son comes first, so I plan my work and personal growth around his needs, making sure there’s time for self-care and the occasional Netflix binge. And I’ve learned to ask for help—whether it’s from my supportive friends or hiring a sitter when I need to focus on a project. It’s all about finding what works for you and being flexible enough to adapt when life inevitably throws you a curveball.

9. What was the turning point that led you to embrace your authentic self and release societal expectations?

The turning point was when I held my son in my arms for the first time. It was like everything else fell away, and all that mattered was being the best version of myself for him. I realized that in order to do that, I had to live authentically and shed the societal expectations that no longer served me. So, I left behind a career that didn’t fulfill me and pursued what truly made my heart sing. Reconnecting with old friends who supported me with such authenticity only reaffirmed that I was on the right path. Embracing my true self wasn’t just liberating—it was life-saving.

10. How has your son’s adoption journey impacted your work and your approach to parenting?

My son’s adoption journey has been the heartbeat of both my work and my approach to parenting. It’s taught me that love isn’t about DNA, it’s about showing up every day, being present, and creating a safe, loving environment where your child can thrive. His story is woven into the fabric of our lives, and I use my writing to help him—and other children—understand and embrace their unique family dynamics. This journey has made me more patient, more understanding, and more committed to helping other families navigate their own paths with love and resilience. And knowing that I have a supportive community behind me makes all the difference.

11. What has been the most rewarding aspect of your new career in parent coaching and writing?

The most rewarding aspect? Seeing the light in my son’s eyes when he recognizes himself in the stories I write or when he grasps a concept we’ve discussed—that’s pure magic. And hearing from parents who feel more connected to their children because of my work? It’s like receiving a standing ovation after the performance of a lifetime. I’m also deeply grateful for the support from friends, old and new, who have cheered me on every step of the way. Their belief in me has made all the hard work worthwhile, and it reminds me that when you follow your true path, you not only fulfill your own dreams—you inspire others to do the same.

12. How do you maintain your mental health and well-being while managing the demands of your new career and personal life?

It’s a juggling act, but I’ve learned a few tricks along the way. Self-care is non-negotiable—whether it’s writing, meditation, or just taking a moment to breathe. Therapy has been my sounding board, helping me stay grounded and focused. I also make it a point to nurture the relationships that lift me up—my friends, who have been like pillars of strength, reminding me that I don’t have to do this alone. And sometimes, it’s about giving myself permission to take a break, knowing that I can’t pour from an empty cup.

13. What strategies have you found effective in building a supportive community that sees you for who you truly are?

Your vibe attracts your tribe—that’s been my mantra. By being open and honest about my journey, I’ve attracted people who genuinely understand and support me. Reconnecting with old friends and forming new, like-minded relationships has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve also learned to prune the relationships that no longer serve me, focusing on those that offer genuine support and love. Participating in groups that share my interests, like parenting circles and writing workshops, has provided a sense of belonging and mutual support. These connections have been invaluable, helping me stay true to myself and my path—and yes, even adding a bit of joy and laughter along the way.

14. How do you handle the challenges of being a sole parent while also pursuing your own personal and professional growth?

It’s all about balance, planning, and a healthy dose of self-compassion. I’ve accepted that I can’t do everything perfectly, and that’s okay. My son is my top priority, so I structure my work and personal growth around his needs. At the same time, I make sure to carve out time for myself—whether it’s through learning, writing, or simply recharging. The support from my community, especially those who have shown up for me unexpectedly, has been invaluable. Their encouragement and belief in me have made it possible to pursue my dreams while being a dedicated parent. It’s a delicate dance, but one that’s worth every step.

15. What legacy do you hope to leave for your son through your work and personal journey?

The legacy I hope to leave for my son is one of authenticity, resilience, and love. I want him to see that it’s possible to navigate life’s challenges by staying true to oneself and not being swayed by the opinions of others. Through my journey, I hope to show him that following your dreams is not just a possibility but a necessity for living a fulfilling life. I also want to instill in him the importance of being a compassionate and understanding person, both towards himself and others. My work in parent coaching and writing is a testament to the power of living authentically and prioritizing what truly matters—family, personal growth, and emotional well-being. By embracing these values, I believe I can give my son a strong foundation on which to build his own life, full of love, integrity, and purpose. I also hope to teach him how to navigate his way through life by being true to himself and not letting others dictate his path. This is the legacy I strive to create—a life lived with intention, authenticity, and a deep sense of love and connection.

IG: @bondingnest