Iliza Shlesinger is not only a powerhouse comedian but also a candid voice on the challenges of motherhood. In her latest special, *A Different Animal*, she jokingly reflects, “When you become a mother, as a woman, you become — how do I put this scientifically? — um, f***ing dumb.” However, she clarifies that it’s not a personal failing but rather a phenomenon known as "mom brain", scientifically validated by a 2016 study indicating that women’s brains undergo changes that prioritize parenting instincts over other cognitive functions. This bit resonates particularly with mothers in her audience, while the men seem less amused, prompting Iliza to quip about needing to consult Joe Rogan for validation.

This special marks the seventh of her career and is available on Prime Video. During an interview with Yahoo Life, Iliza elaborated on her intent to address the undercurrents of misogyny in comedic spaces, especially when women dare to speak intelligently about their experiences. While Aliza has a good rapport with Joe Rogan, she acknowledges the unique challenges women face in having their voices heard and respected.

Shlesinger emphasizes that her comedy serves a purpose beyond just laughter; it offers empowerment and honesty about womanhood and parenthood. “It’s our job as comics to articulate what people feel they can't say,” she explains. The lightheartedness of her humor doesn't detract from the serious truths she reveals about the way women often feel marginalized or misunderstood.

When it comes to her children, Iliza is protective of their privacy and chooses not to share their faces online. "The internet can be a harsh place," she admits. "I think we're approaching a point where digital rights regarding children's images will become more widely recognized. For now, I keep what I can private." Instead, Shlesinger channels her experiences into observational comedy, often exposing the real but humorous aspects of motherhood without directly involving her children in the jokes.

Continuing on her journey as a mother, Iliza mentioned that she’s learning to balance her career and family life. She acknowledges the added responsibilities of motherhood, especially with the help of a nanny, stating, “Our greatest strength as women often lies in supporting each other.” Her perspective on parenting is refreshingly pragmatic; she understands that no one can escape criticism regardless of how they choose to raise their children. “Do what works for you and don’t seek constant validation,” she advises.

A laugh-out-loud moment in the interview brought up the infamous “mom brain.” Iliza confessed to mistakenly saying "president" instead of "present" on stage, a stark reminder of the scattered thoughts that often accompany motherhood. As she reminisced about her own mother, she humorously acknowledged the same behavior she once mocked, suggesting a newfound respect for her own parenting journey.

Iliza is also candid about the feelings of guilt and sadness that come with being a working mother. While her daughter, who is currently well cared for and attended to, is thriving, Iliza admits to experiencing moments of longing. "It's just part of being a mom in this industry," she reflects. As many traveling parents can relate, she often finds herself emotional over old videos of her child, coping with the bittersweet nature of balancing career aspirations with familial bonds.

Moreover, she sees value in setting an example for future generations. “It’s essential for girls to see that working moms are valuable, whether they work at home or outside of it,” she emphasizes. For Shlesinger, the epitome of motherhood is being fulfilled, and she hopes her daughter will internalize this lesson.

Lastly, the conversation steered toward her wardrobe choices in the special, particularly the eye-catching see-through pants. Shlesinger sheepishly admitted, "I didn’t think they’d be a big deal. I felt cool in them!" Reflecting on her post-pregnancy journey, she highlighted her dedication to fitness and self-expression. She expressed a desire for women to feel empowered to declare their hard work and achievements. “I worked really f***ing hard for this,” she declares.

In an age where self-confidence is often scrutinized, Shlesinger’s unapologetic approach to her body, career, and motherhood inspires many.

Watching this remarkable comedian continue to shatter stereotypes while wearing those daring pants reminds us that she’s as fierce as ever—with a message that resonates with women and men alike.