#Powerwives is a bi-monthly column where we feature women who inspire us. Martial status is completely irrelevant. The title is inspired by our founders November 2013 Toronto Life cover story. This week’s #powerwife is Erica Ehm.
Image via Josh Moshenberg
Erica Ehm rocked the 80’s and 90’s as one of the most well known MuchMusic personalities. She wrote the book “She Should Talk” and a bunch of award winning songs in the nineties. Popped out a couple of awesome kids in the 2000’s which lead to the launch of YummyMummyClub.ca, which has grown to be one of the largest online publications for women with kids.
Name: Erica Ehm
Social media handles: @YummyMummyClub on Twitter, @EricaEhm on Instagram, YummyMummyClub on Facebook.
Who is in your tribe? (family members, friends, partners) My husband Terry (who runs LeagueofRock.com) is my best friend. My mom Evelyn Hannon (Journeywoman.com) is one of the smartest women I know aside from my sister Leslie. My dad George is my long distance business advisor. My mother-in-law Thelma redefines love. My sister-in-law Susie was my first YMC employee and still works for me. Much of my tribe today are colleagues from YMC who have been so committed to creating a relevant space for moms online. They have become friends and mentors.
What does a typical day look like for you? YMC is a virtual company, where our staff of over 70 people all work from home. So I get up and start to work. Make breakfast for the kids, get them to school (or camp) and go back to work. My job is to grow the business while maintaining the integrity and authenticity of our tapestry of voices that contribute to making YMC so well written. Occasionally, I workout. I scramble for dinner, hang out with my kids and then get back to work at night for my second shift.
What’s in your clutch? I don’t have one. I have a tiny iPhone wallet where I keep three credit cards and my phone. I like to travel light.
Five things you can’t live without? Family, inspiration, phone/computer, friends that tell you the truth and work.
Who is your hero? My mom and dad. My mom for constantly reinventing herself and for her nonstop quest to learn and create. My dad for overcoming a very challenging childhood and making his dreams come true.
What are you reading? Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration by Ed Catmul
How did you get your start? I started at CityTV as the entertainment receptionist.
Tell us about a time you were challenged and you learned a lesson. Hahahaha. That’s a funny question because I’m ALWAYS being challenged. Both by my kids and my job. As an entrepreneur my main job description is head problem solver and my definition of success is fixing the problems and learning from the mistakes. The book I’m reading (see above) is exactly about this subject.
What inspires you? Learning new things, figuring out solutions to ongoing problems, connecting deeply and watching my kids evolve into interesting young people.
What are you excited about right now? The possibilities available in the digital space for entrepreneurs are endless. I am excited about harnessing it’s power.
How do you unwind? I go for run, I watch Downton Abbey and I travel with my family.
Personal mantra: Do unto others.
Advice for women trying to get to where you are: Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want. Always exceed people’s expectations. Learn to say no. Work hard!!!
