We're thrilled to share our Mama Minute with Jing Gao, founder and owner of Fly By Jing and mama to Kai. As we celebrate Lunar New Year, Jing opens up about the beautiful chaos of raising a family while building her beloved brand, sharing how motherhood has reshaped her approach to both business and tradition!

What does a typical Lunar New Year meal look like in your household?

It’s cozy, abundant, and a little chaotic. There’s usually fish, noodles, dumplings, and something sweet to end the meal. Since Lunar New Year is a multi-day celebration, we usually also work in a hot pot night. The joy of Lunar New Year is in gathering around the table with loved ones, sharing delicious food, and lingering longer than usual.

Building a successful brand while raising babies is no easy task—what’s your best advice for moms who are trying to do the same?

First, give yourself a lot more grace than you think you need. Some days you’re in founder mode, some days you’re fully in mom mode, and most days it’s a messy mix of both. I’ve learned that building support around you is everything, and that being ambitious and being a present parent are not opposites. Kai has zero interest in my calendar or deadlines, which has actually been the best reminder to zoom out and stay grounded.

What are some of your family’s favorite Lunar New Year traditions?

We love the ritual of resetting. Cleaning the house, cooking together, and wearing red even if it’s just a little pop somewhere. Kai is very into anything festive, so he gets especially excited about the decorations and the food. He doesn’t totally understand the symbolism yet, but he definitely understands that something special is happening, and that energy carries the whole day.

How do you decide what to say yes to when opportunities come up—both in business and family life?

I think a lot about energy and presence. If something pulls me too far away from how I want to show up with my family, it’s probably a no. Motherhood has made me much more aware of how fragmented time feels. I’d rather do fewer things well and actually be present than say yes to everything and feel scattered.

What’s your Chinese zodiac animal? Do you feel like it describes you?

I’m a Rabbit, which honestly feels very accurate. Rabbits are intuitive, thoughtful, and resilient. I feel like motherhood has brought that side of me out even more. I move more intentionally now, and I’m a lot more protective of my energy, especially with Kai watching everything I do.

Any Tubby Todd products your fam is loving?

The Hair + Body Wash is a staple for bathtime. Kai has sensitive skin, so anything that’s gentle, reliable, and doesn’t require a second thought becomes an everyday essential. He also loves the Watermelon Toothpaste and All Over Ointment.

What’s a small daily ritual that helps you feel like yourself?

Meditation and a quiet cup of tea in the morning before the day fully kicks off. That hour before getting the baby up and starting the day feels grounding and necessary. It’s small, but makes a huge difference.

What’s your go-to comfort meal when you need a reset?

A warm bowl of noodles with broth, greens, and drizzle of chili crisp. It’s grounding, nostalgic, and instantly soothing. Sometimes I'll even add noodles to my other favorite comfort dish - mapo tofu, and the combo hits every time.

What is one aspect of motherhood that has surprised you?

How much joy there is in the tiny moments. The silly moments, the daily routines, the playful way Kai approaches the world. It’s slowed me down in the best way and reminded me that presence is the real luxury.

____________________

Shop the limited edition Lunar New Year Hair + Body Wash