“Different phase in my life” Super Mega Cakes contestant Ashley discusses work-life balance post motherhood

Ashley Holt talked about combining parenthood and her cake decorating career during an emotional period on Super Mega Cakes Episode 2. When presenting her team’s camping-themed design to the judges, the candidate burst into tears as she reflected on how her priorities had changed since motherhood.

"I'm at a different phase in my life now. Like, my priorities have shifted and it's like I wondered, you know, like, how do I balance both?" she shared with the panel.

In Super Mega Cakes Episode 2, Ashley paired up with Monica and Inae, both known for their outstanding work on Is It Cake?, to face off against legendary chef Duff Goldman’s team. The goal was to create a beloved dish entirely out of cake.

The results were evaluated by Super Mega Cakes judges Amaury Guichon, Sherry Yard, and Jacques Torres. Ashley’s squad came one point short, losing the $10,000 prize. Her candour about balancing an artistic profession and a family life struck a chord with many in similar situations.

How did Super Mega Cakes’ Ashley fare on the show and what was her personally journey like?

Ashley praised her teammates’ professional backgrounds in hyperrealistic cake creation. Monica and Inae typically work behind the scenes crafting the elaborate designs that fool audiences on Is It Cake?. Their expertise in deceptive cake artistry provided valuable skills for the competition format.

The trio developed a camping-themed concept featuring multiple edible elements. Their creation included realistic fish, sauces, coffee in tin cups, beans in skillets, tree trunks, burgers, skewers, pancakes, and canned goods. Each component required precise attention to detail and realistic texturing.

Ashley described returning to competition after an extended break from similar shows. She acknowledged relying heavily on creativity and technical skills while working alongside her experienced teammates. The collaborative approach helped bridge any gaps in her recent competition experience.

Ashley’s most powerful moment on Super Mega Cakes occurred during the presentation phase, when judges evaluated the final cakes. She felt upset when talking about how her life had changed after becoming a mother. The vulnerability stunned both colleagues and viewers of the program.

She stated that cake baking had been fundamental to her identity for many years until parenthood changed her perspective. Ashley was encouraged by the competition to investigate how she might keep her creativity while juggling family duties. Her honest words about the difficulties resonated with many people.

She felt comfort in knowing that her abilities had not deteriorated with time, and she expressed pleasure with her team’s efforts despite the defeat. Monica and Inae gave assistance, emphasising the closeness developed during the competition.

Ashley took to Instagram after the program aired on June 23, 2025, to thank her coworkers and praise their artistry. She described observing Monica and Inae at work as a “total masterclass.” Monica subsequently reacted in a July 1 post, praising Ashley’s leadership and collaborative nature. She explained that although she had previously worked with Inae, this was her first time meeting Ashley on site.

The social media exchanges revealed genuine friendships formed during filming. All three contestants expressed satisfaction with their performance despite losing the challenge by such a narrow margin.

What does this mean for creative career balance?

Ashley’s televised chat about parenthood and talent highlighted issues that many creative workers encounter. Her willingness to publicly discuss work-life balance offered a voice for parents who were reconsidering their professional paths after having kids.

The competition experience on Super Mega Cakes seems to solidify her commitment to cake artistry while also recognising shifting priorities. Her emotional breakthrough demonstrated that artistic enthusiasm and parenting obligations do not have to be mutually incompatible. It provided hope to people in similar situations.

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Super Mega Cakes airs Fridays at 10 p.m. ET on Food Network and streams on Max.

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