#ThirdLoveStories: Sri Bodanapu

As a company that’s by women, for women, we’re constantly seeking new ways to spotlight stellar females who inspire us. This series is an opportunity to celebrate the ThirdLove community and share their incredible stories.

Meet Sri Bodanapu, the creator and host of podcast Big Little Choices, where stories of motherhood and identity are shared and celebrated. Read on to find out her proudest accomplishments, the impact she hopes to make, and more!

What inspired you to do what you’re doing now?

I started this podcast to address my own needs as a new mom. I wanted to hear stories outside of my own community and friend circle, so I could get a different perspective on how other moms were making choices for themselves and their families. I firmly belive that we don’t have to conform to societal or cultural norms and that’s what the podcast is about. To give mothers the motivation and inspiration to do things their way and at the same time have empathy and kindness for those who are dealing with their own unique situations and choices.

When do you feel most confident in your skin?

When I know I’m more than my physical appearance. When I know that despite a bad hair day, a bloated stomach, or lack of sleep – I can still be the best version of myself that I can be.

Did you have any insecurities growing up?

I’m petite – 5 feet and nothing and I always felt insecure about it. But as I’ve become older and become more comfortable in my own skin, I’ve realized that a few inches doesn’t take away from your unique identity, your work, or your relationships.

Who/what has shaped you to be the person you are today?

My dad’s probably been my biggest influence. I grew up in a progressive yet traditional Indian home and was always made to believe that I was equal to my brother (who happens to be 6’4″!). We were educated the same way, given the same opportunities and always told that an uncompromising value system and good education can let you tackle any challenges in life.

What are your proudest accomplishments?

That I made an unconventional choice when I was 30 and decided to leave an exciting career in tech to follow my passion for food and learning. That I went back to school when I was 35 for a degree in nutrition. That despite not having a background in media and being fearful about what people would think about my work, decided to start a podcast and put my work out there.

What impact do you want to leave on the world?

To be able to make a difference in someone’s life in a tanglible way. For now, I’m hoping the podcast will inspire some mothers, even if just a handful, to make an unconventional choice and live their most authentic lives.

What’s next for you?

Finding more ways to scale the podcast. To find inpiring moms who want to share their stories, give them a platform to be proud of their choices, and build community for all them to lean onto.

How do you stay balanced?

Try my best to find alone time at least once a day. It could just mean cooking for an hour or watching an episode of a show. Plus, my husband and I always prioritize date night once a week – just us or with friends and that always helps me reset from a crazy week. I have a 3 year old, so it’s imperative that I’m calm and balanced in order to handle his moods and needs!

What’s your favorite ThirdLove bra and why?

The Lace Plunge! Just the right amount of oomph and fun for a day bra!

Tell us your ThirdLove Story.

I was really struggling to break out of my Victoria’s Secret rut. I’d had a few pushups from there that never seemed to work. The cup was either too big or small, or just too much push for the day! Plus, the seams always stood out under a t-shirt, so I was ready for something new. My husband actually heard of the company and told me to give it a shot! And I loved it.

Additional reporting by Nicole Yi.