Episode 9: It’s a Barbie World ft. Barbara Buteau-Pierre

In this heartfelt episode of Growing Pains, the host sits down with their mother, Barbara Buteau-Pierre, to discuss the importance of community, mentorship, and familial bonds. Together, they reflect on how strong connections shape personal and professional growth, and share their experiences with relationships, vulnerability, and overcoming life's challenges.

[00:00] Introduction

The host introduces Barbara as their guest, explaining the episode's focus on community and how crucial it is to have a reliable support system—whether through family, mentors, or friends.

[02:30] The Lack of Mentorship

Barbara opens up about her 15-year career journey, sharing how she built her career without an official mentor and the challenges that came with it. Now, she feels passionate about mentoring others and providing guidance where she once lacked it.

[05:00] The Sister Bond That Wasn’t

The conversation takes a personal turn as Barbara discusses her relationship with her own sister. Despite their love for each other, they didn’t share a close bond, something Barbara believes made certain transitions in her life more difficult.

[08:00] Raising Strong Sibling Bonds

The host shares their strong relationship with their own sister, Kristen, and the importance of that bond in facing life’s challenges. Barbara expresses her pride in the closeness her children share and reflects on how she wishes she had that connection with her own sibling.

[12:30] The Influence of Maternal Wisdom

Barbara reflects on the calming presence of her own mother, who always knew how to help her find balance. She discusses how losing her mother was a turning point in her life and how it reshaped her perspective on adulthood and independence.

[16:00] Life After Loss

The death of Barbara’s mother brought her and her sister closer, and Barbara shares how their relationship changed as a result. She reflects on the challenges of losing a mother and the impact it had on her sense of self.

[18:30] Rebuilding Community After COVID

The pandemic left many people feeling more isolated, and both Barbara and the host discuss how relationships became more fragmented post-COVID. Barbara expresses frustration at the lack of community-building in her life since the pandemic but emphasizes the importance of finding connection in any form.

[22:00] Cultural Communities and the Importance of Support Networks

Drawing comparisons to other cultural communities, Barbara discusses how other ethnic groups tend to build strong support systems wherever they go. She contrasts this with her own experience and reflects on how important it is to nurture community in her own life.

[24:00] Intentional Connection

Bria shares her experience of struggling to find community after moving to New York. They talk about the importance of building relationships intentionally and how the pandemic has affected the ability to form lasting bonds.

[27:30] Mentorship and Personal Growth

Barbara emphasizes the need for mentorship, both for personal and professional development. She talks about her role in mentoring others now, especially younger generations, and the significance of family support in helping people grow.

[30:00] The Power of Vulnerability

The conversation turns to vulnerability, with Barbara and the host discussing how being open is essential for building deeper, more trusting relationships. Barbara encourages listeners to lean on their support systems and embrace their emotional needs.

[33:00] Closing Thoughts

Bria wraps up the conversation by thanking Barbara for her insights. Bria also expresses gratitude for the community she's built on Growing Pains and encourages everyone to continue nurturing their relationships with those who support them.