January 1 has long been seen as the telling moment for resolutions, yet it often feels like a mismatch for many of us. The excitement of a new year can quickly clash with the reality of post-holiday fatigue. Recovering from December’s hustle, managing children’s schedules, and managing the return to work takes its toll. How can anyone feel like a brand-new person when the holiday stress lingers? Michelle Buteau, the hilarious creator and star of Netflix’s series Survival of the Thickest, completely gets it.
As she looks forward to a big year ahead, including the much-anticipated third season of her hit series, Buteau exemplifies how to approach a new year on your own terms. It’s refreshing to see a mom who understands that the “new year, new me” slogan doesn’t just snap into action on January 1.
Buteau has collaborated with Premier Protein’s “new, New Year” campaign. This initiative encourages individuals to start fresh when they’re truly ready, rather than following imposed timelines. Her philosophy? “It doesn’t matter how you get there as long as you get there and give yourself grace,” she shared in a candid Zoom conversation.
Our chat reflected her uniquely engaging personality, filled with humor and a dash of chaos. Honest and relatable, she addressed everything from managing expectations to embracing motherhood’s beautiful mess.
SM: As a busy working mom, how do you ease into a new year?
MB: For me, it’s about self-care, but honestly, I don’t have time for a vacation, which seems to be everyone’s typical advice. Planning a getaway can be a full-time job—packing, ensuring everything’s in order at home, and even worrying about capturing the perfect Instagram moment. Returning home means catching up on unfinished chores and re-integrating into family life. It’s not the restful experience it’s cracked up to be. I prefer to find peace and health in the little moments of daily life.
SM: Protein has become all the rage online. What’s the quirkiest way you incorporate it?
MB: Honestly, I crave protein. Some mornings, you’ll find a bit of protein shake mixed into my coffee. I also enjoy boiled eggs topped with kimchi, or turkey slices with spicy mustard. I’m married to a guy who loves sandwiches, but I’m all about the fillings. Plus, I love weightlifting, often doing squats mid-conversation because who doesn’t deserve a little goddess stretch?
SM: Are you a fan of dancing?
MB: Absolutely, are you?
SM: Definitely! I spend half my life dancing around the house like I should be a Disney princess, even if my kids find it ‘cringe.’
MB: Who cares? I’m producing a song for KPop Demon Hunters now.
SM: Moms often feel exhaustion creeping in. Have you experienced any recent ‘unhinged’ moments that made you question your sanity?
MB: Oh, plenty. Let’s just say, I’ve had my moments with dirty towels. At one dinner, I totally forgot to use a fork. I ended up serving my kids food using only my hands, and they were just bewildered, like, ‘What is going on?’
SM: They probably found it hilarious.
MB: Eventually, they made me a card, which was nice of them.
SM: That’s so sweet!
MB: They’re good kids. They know how to keep the mood light.
SM: With so many impressive achievements under your belt, what recent small victories have made you feel accomplished?
MB: If my kitchen counter stays clear, that’s a win. I tackled laundry recently—washing, drying, folding, and even putting it all away! That deserves recognition, right?
SM: You’re wild.
MB: I embrace my chaos. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.
SM: Looking towards the future, are there stories you wish to tell that once felt out of reach?
MB: While starting my comedy career, it felt rare to see women featured. I often wondered where the stories for women were. Now, we’re in a time where sharing our narratives is celebrated. It’s freeing to converse openly about our experiences. My latest project, Spa Weekend, features four tired women realizing they must prioritize rest, showing that taking a break is indeed productive.
I’m also set to go on tour titled ‘Surviving and Thriving.’ I want to explore what it means to survive or thrive in our own ways. Expect it to be both funny and thought-provoking.
SM: As a mom, what’s something that parenting has transformed for you in a way you actually appreciate?
MB: I’ve learned to appreciate the chaos of daily life. I no longer fret over possessions—everything gets stained or broken. Privacy? That’s gone too, and yet, I relish the wonderful chaos of it all. Life with twins, especially in places like airports, shows me the kindness of strangers. Parenthood inspires me to be a better person. It’s beautiful to witness how people can come together just to help out.
This interview has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
