U.S. Mom Spotlight: Janise – Meet the Founder of Utter Survival

Get to Know Me: A Q&A with Janise 

Hey Mamas, 

I’m so excited to welcome you to Utter Survival! This blog is a space for real stories, faith-filled encouragement, and the journey of motherhood and womanhood. To kick things off, I wanted to introduce myself with a little Q&A. Let’s get to it!

Who are you, and what do you do?

I’m Janise, I’m a mama to one and the Community Outreach Coordinator for an indoor play-space for kids in the Metro-Detroit area. My role allows me to connect with families and organizations to create meaningful experiences for young children. Outside of work, I’m passionate about faith, motherhood, and sharing all of the beautiful and ugly real-life stories that inspire and uplift.

What inspired you to start Utter Survival?

In 2019, God placed Utter Survival in my heart. I wanted to create a space where people could share their real-life stories beyond the curated highlight reels we see on social media. However, life happened, and I stepped away from it.

In 2022, everything changed. I learned that my daughter would be born with a heart defect. Although it was one of the hardest moments of my life, it strengthened my faith. I told myself that if she survived open-heart surgery, I would relaunch Utter Survival—because she was the ultimate survivor. And she did.

Now, as a mom, my purpose for this blog has evolved. Utter Survival is about complete survival—doing whatever it takes to make it through life while growing spiritually, physically, and mentally through Christ.

What kind of content can people expect from Utter Survival?

Utter Survival will share real stories from moms, parenting and self-care tips and faith-driven insights on resilience and growth. It’s a space for moms to feel seen ,supported and encouraged in their journey.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Kind, transparent, and resilient.

What’s a fun fact about you?

I LOVEEE sports! I got my bachelor’s in Journalism with a Concentration in Sport Media from Michigan State University, and a master’s in Sport Management from the University of Michigan. 

Are you a morning or night person?

I am a night owl at heart, but being a mother has turned me into a morning person! I’ve been waking up at 5 AM consistently for the past four months, and I love starting my day with quiet time and prayer.

What’s one goal you’re currently working on?

Gaining 15 pounds through strength training and continuing to grow Utter Survival into a space where moms feel seen and supported.

What does self-care look like for you?

I’ve recently started my fitness journey, and I’m loving contrast therapy where I get to alternate between cold showers and the jacuzzi, sauna and/or steam room. I also make time for things like shopping, enjoying quality time with loved ones, and simply resting when I have time to.

What’s your best piece of advice for moms?

Give yourself grace. You don’t have to do everything perfectly, your love is enough.

What’s one thing you wish you had known before becoming a mom?

That being a good mom doesn’t mean you have to neglect yourself and your passions and only focus on your child. I had to learn that I can not pour from an empty cup.

What’s your vision for Utter Survival in the future?

I see Utter Survival evolving into more than just a blog. I want to create a strong online community, launch a magazine, and even start a clothing line for moms and kids. One of my biggest dreams is to host an annual mom conference where we can connect, grow and pour into each other.

How can people connect with you?

I’d love to connect with you! You can follow along on social media, leave a comment, or reach out directly. This is a community, and I want it to feel like a space where we’re all in this together.

I hope this Q&A gave you a little insight into who I am and the heart behind Utter Survival. Thank you for being here. I’m so excited for what’s to come!