In this inspiring episode of The Bold Route Podcast, I sit down with Allison Guthrie — mama of three (two with special needs), founder of Sterlyng Ash, and creator of The Balanced Mama Notebook and Resource Collection — to talk about motherhood, advocacy, and learning to create balance in the middle of chaos.

Allison’s journey began in the tech world as a software engineer, but life took an unexpected turn when her daughter Aspen was diagnosed with Down syndrome. What followed was a season of transformation — one that pushed her to step away from a career she loved, build a brand from scratch, and find purpose through helping other moms in hard places.

Through Sterlyng Ash, Allison provides beginner-friendly punch-needle embroidery kits designed to bring calm, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment to busy moms. Even more special, a portion of every bulk order goes to NICU moms, offering them a therapeutic outlet during their hospital stays — a mission rooted in her own NICU experience.

Her latest mission, The Balanced Mama Notebook, is a beautifully designed guide that helps moms process big emotions after receiving a new diagnosis for their child. With reflection prompts, grounding exercises, and gentle encouragement, it helps mothers navigate fear, overwhelm, and uncertainty — reminding them that they’re not alone and that hope still exists, even in the hardest seasons.
👉 Learn more or get your copy at balancedmama.me
In this conversation, we dive into:

• How boldness can mean advocating for your children and trusting your instincts
• The story behind Sterlyng Ash and the meaning woven into its name
• Why chaos and calm can coexist — and how balance is something we create, not find
• The heart behind The Balanced Mama Workbook, designed to help moms process new diagnoses and heavy emotions with hope and grace

In the second half of the interview, we chat about:

• Tips for traveling with children with medical needs
• Life in Monument, Colorado
• Climbing Pikes Peak
• and a fun game of Road Trip Would You Rather

If you’re a mom, entrepreneur, or anyone learning to create beauty in the middle of life’s chaos, this episode will touch your heart and remind you that being bold often starts with love.

🎧 Tune in and be encouraged to take your own bold route — one intentional step at a time.

To find Allison’s punch needle kits visit sterlyngash.com
Find The Balanced Mama Workbook at balancedmama.me
Follow along on Instagram @hey.balancedmama
***If this conversation encouraged you, share it with another mama who could use a reminder that she’s not alone.

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