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Mom-Me episodes

  • 19. Izabela Kvesic | Energy Audits & Morning Routines: Practical Steps for a Fulfilling Life

    Izabela Kvesic, entrepreneur and CEO of Blue Water Performance Ltd., shares her insights on balancing career, family, and personal well-being. She emphasizes the power of intention-setting, energy management, and self-care in achieving success.

    "I would encourage everyone when they feel overwhelmed, just remind yourself, how can I be more like water? How can I pivot and just allow it to be"

    Key Takeaways:
    • Mindset is Everything: Izabela's mantra, "You got this!", is rooted in self-brainwashing for positivity, which she credits for maintaining balance in both motherhood and career.

    • Morning Routines for Success: Daily intention-setting, meditation, and affirmations lay the foundation for productivity and well-being.

    • Energy Audits Improve Focus: Identifying energy vampires (tasks that drain energy) vs. energy angels (activities that fuel positivity) helps maintain balance in work and life.

    • Setting Boundaries is Crucial: Establishing clear expectations at work and home ensures a seamless transition between corporate life and entrepreneurship.

    Mindset & Morning Routines: The Key to Izabela's Success

    Izabela attributes much of her success to a well-structured morning routine designed to foster a strong mindset. Her routine includes:

    • Intention Setting: Outlining clear goals and potential challenges for the day.

    • Meditation: A quick outdoor session to clear the mind.

    • Positive Affirmations: Using empowering mantras like "I'm open to receive" to cultivate a confident mindset.

    • Energy Alignment: Starting the day with positivity to enhance performance across all roles.

    Balancing Motherhood & Career: From Corporate to Entrepreneurship
    • With a 20-year corporate career at Unilever, Izabela had all three of her children while actively working in leadership roles.

    • She proactively set clear expectations with HR to balance work and family life, adjusting her roles to reduce travel and prioritize family time.

    • Now, as an entrepreneur, she co-runs her business with her husband, eliminating a 3-hour daily commute and focusing on quality time with family.

    Energy Management & Self-Care: The Power of Energy Audits
    • Weekly Energy Audits:

      • Identifying energy vampires (people or tasks that drain energy)

      • Recognizing energy angels (activities that boost energy)

    • Scheduling Energy-Boosting Activities: Prioritizing tasks that bring joy and fulfillment.

    • Self-Care as a Priority: Encouraging individuals to "put their oxygen mask on first" before taking care of others.

    Adapting Parenting Strategies as Children Grow
    • As her children transition into their teenage years, Izabela adjusts her approach by creating more one-on-one time to maintain strong family connections.

    • This shift ensures deeper relationships despite their evolving interests and schedules.

    Corporate to Entrepreneurship: A Purpose-Driven Transition
    • Izabela and her husband conducted a joint exercise to define their family's version of success.

    • They prioritized harmony, work-life balance, and being present for their children over climbing the corporate ladder.

    • Today, Izabela offers executive and business coaching, leveraging her corporate expertise to guide others in achieving success on their terms.

    About Izabela Kvesic

    Izabela Kvesic is a dynamic entrepreneur, business strategist, and life coach. As the Co-Founder & CEO of Blue Water Performance Ltd., she helps women lead authentic, fulfilling lives. With over 20 years of corporate experience in brand building, strategy, and women's advocacy, Izabela integrates her expertise as a certified Life Coach and Six Phase Meditation Trainer by Mindvalley.

    Notable Achievements:
    • 2025 Finalist for Female Business Leader

    • 2025 Canadian Choice Award Winner for Business Coaching

    • 2025 Consumer Choice Award Winner in Business Excellence

    • 2025 Women of Influence Nominee

    Empowering Women: Izabela helps clients embrace their genius, activate their purpose, and elevate their personal brand to attract aligned opportunities.

    When she's not coaching, Izabela enjoys stand-up paddleboarding with her family or tending to her lavender garden. Her favorite phrase? "You got this!"

    Connect with Izabela:
    • Instagram: @wearebluewater

    • Facebook: Izabela Kvesic

    • LinkedIn: Izabela Kvesic

    • Website: Blue Water Performance

    • Email: [email protected]

    📢 Free Resource:

    Unlock the 5-Minute Power Morning Routine to activate your morning and win your day! Download Here

    Unlock Your Energy for less Overwhelm and more Focus and Motivation: Download free Unlock Your Energy pdf

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting: https://calendly.com/talenttrek/prescreen

    Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelatait/

    Check out my Website: http://www.angelatait.com

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    27 min
  • 18. Tirza Jova | Milk, Meetings, and Mindset: Balancing Business, Babies, and Big Goals

    Tirza Jova, founder of Milk by Mom, has transformed the way breastfeeding mothers store and use breast milk with her innovative breast milk freeze-drying service. This groundbreaking method allows breast milk to be converted into a shelf-stable powder, providing parents with unparalleled convenience, longevity, and flexibility.

    Tirza's journey began with her personal struggle of traveling while breastfeeding. Faced with the challenge of maintaining a supply of fresh breast milk, she discovered the benefits of freeze-drying and made the bold decision to leave her corporate job to launch Milk by Mom. Today, her company empowers breastfeeding parents by offering a modern solution that maintains the nutritional integrity of breast milk while eliminating the hassle of refrigeration.

    "I really do think that becoming a mom transformed my perspective in really profound ways, it made me realize how precious time is and how important it is to prioritize what truly matters."

    Key Takeaways
    • Extended Shelf Life: No need for refrigeration; store in a cool, dry place.

    • Convenience: Easy to transport and rehydrate, ideal for traveling parents.

    • Freedom & Flexibility: Enables caregivers to feed babies breast milk anytime, anywhere.

    • Retains Nutrients: Preserves the essential benefits of breast milk without preservatives.

    Tirza Jova's Insights: The Balancing Act of Motherhood and Business

    Tirza openly shares her experience of transitioning from a stable corporate career to entrepreneurship, a shift that came with both challenges and rewards.

    From Corporate to Entrepreneurship
    • Used her remaining maternity leave to develop Milk by Mom.

    • Managed her corporate job and the startup for six months before committing full-time.

    • Faced self-doubt and sleepless nights, learning business operations from scratch.

    Balancing Motherhood & Business
    • Prioritizes family dinners every night as a non-negotiable bonding time.

    • Dedicates at least 15 minutes of undivided attention to her kids daily.

    • Integrates her children into her business journey, involving them in small tasks.

    • Uses meal prep services to free up valuable family time in the evenings.

    Personal Growth Through Motherhood
    • Learned to embrace presence and appreciate life through her children's eyes.

    • Practices letting go of perfectionism, focusing on happiness and connection.

    • Uses breathwork, meditation, and nature to manage stress and find balance.

    The Future of Milk by Mom

    At a crossroads, Tirza is considering expanding the business while balancing the need for quality time with her young children. She envisions long-term growth that will offer future flexibility and financial freedom, ensuring Milk by Mom continues to support parents nationwide.

    About Tirza Jova

    Tirza Jova is the founder of Milk by Mom, a Phoenix, AZ-based company that provides breast milk freeze-drying services nationwide. Passionate about modernizing breastfeeding, she educates mothers on the benefits of freeze-dried breast milk, helping them gain freedom and flexibility while maintaining the nutritional benefits of breast milk.

    Connect with Tirza Jova & Milk by Mom
    • Website: milkbymom.com

    • Instagram: @milkbymom

    • Facebook: Milk by Mom

    • TikTok: @milkbymom

    • Email: [email protected]

    Milk by Mom is changing the way breastfeeding parents nourish their babies, offering an innovative and practical solution for modern families. Explore the future of breastfeeding today!

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting: https://calendly.com/talenttrek/prescreen

    Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelatait/

    Check out my Website: http://www.angelatait.com

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    36 min
  • 17. Marisa Rylan | Letting Go to Grow: Parenting, Entrepreneurship, and Self-Regulation

    Marisa, a trauma-informed spiritual coach and manifestation mentor, shares her inspiring journey from a high-powered corporate career to helping ambitious women find peace and fulfillment. She specializes in guiding high-achieving women through challenges such as blended family dynamics, parenting children with autism, and restructuring businesses for greater balance and impact.

    Marisa's Journey: From Corporate to Coaching

    After experiencing corporate burnout and a spiritual awakening, Marisa transitioned from a six-figure career to coaching, focusing on emotional resilience, self-regulation, and manifestation. Her expertise lies in supporting women as they navigate life's complexities while maintaining professional and personal fulfillment.

    "When we pause to acknowledge and understand our own emotions first, we can then engage in a productive, empathetic conversation with our kids, truly listening and being curious about their experience."

    Key Takeaways

    ✅ Self-Regulation & Letting Go of Control: Crucial for parents, especially in blended families and special needs parenting. ✅ Business Evolution & Work-Life Balance: Transitioning to group coaching and automation to scale impact. ✅ LinkedIn Strategies for Business Growth: Using newsletters and engagement techniques to acquire clients.

    TOPICS Blended Family Dynamics: Building Stronger Connections

    Marisa is a mother of five—two biological sons (10 & 12) and three bonus children (9, 14, 16). She has worked with blended family coaches to create a harmonious home life. Her key lesson: Focus on connection, not correction when bonding with stepchildren. By surrendering control and embracing each child's journey, she has cultivated a more peaceful family dynamic.

    Parenting a Child with Autism: Challenges & Growth

    Raising a 12-year-old son with autism has been a profound learning experience. Marisa developed extreme patience, empathy, and unconditional love, emphasizing that parents must regulate their own emotions before guiding their children. This mindset shift has been transformational in her parenting approach.

    Restructuring Business for Success & Balance

    Marisa is refining her business model to maximize impact while reducing time investment. Her 2025 strategy includes:

    • Scaling through Group Programs & Automation instead of one-on-one coaching.

    • Work-Life Balance: Creating more time for family while maintaining business success.

    • Mindset Shift: Believing in the possibility of change as the driving force behind business evolution.

    Support Systems & Self-Care: Investing in Help

    To ensure a smooth work-life balance, Marisa has embraced the importance of hiring support, such as au pairs, to provide continuity of care. She advocates for overcoming self-judgment about seeking help and encourages creating meaningful, quality time with children.

    Leveraging LinkedIn for Business Growth

    Marisa has successfully used LinkedIn as a key platform for scaling her business:

    • LinkedIn Newsletters: A direct channel to engage her audience via email.

    • Pre-Engagement Strategy: Spending 10-15 minutes engaging on LinkedIn before posting to boost reach and visibility.

    • Client Conversion Tactics: Hosting monthly workshops & masterclasses with strategic invitations to thousands over a three-week period.

    Connect with Marisa
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marisa_rylan/

    • Website: https://marisahohaia.com/

    • LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marisarylan

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting: https://calendly.com/talenttrek/prescreen

    Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelatait/

    Check out my Website: http://www.angelatait.com

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    35 min
  • 16. Sabrina Storozuk | Redefining Confidence: The Headband That's Changing the Game

    Sabrina, the founder of ARC, shares her inspiring journey as both a mother and entrepreneur. Her experience with IVF led to the retrieval of 17 eggs, ultimately resulting in one viable embryo. As the creator of ARC, a female-owned company, Sabrina focuses on producing premium headbands designed specifically for mothers. These headbands prioritize clean ingredients, stylish functionality, and everyday comfort.

    The Story Behind ARC Headbands

    ARC headbands are more than just accessories—they are confidence-boosting essentials designed for busy moms. Sabrina highlights how ARC's headbands enhance facial features and provide comfort for all-day wear. The brand has consistently sold out due to high demand, prompting expansion plans for 2025, including new product launches and increased inventory.

    "We build resilience through challenges—caring for others even when unwell, learning from our children's strength, and discovering our own."

    Key Takeaways

    • Harmonizing Motherhood & Business: Sabrina successfully manages ARC while embracing the challenges of parenting.

    • Premium Headband Innovation: ARC headbands are designed by women for women, offering both functionality and style.

    • Entrepreneurial Insights: Sabrina's journey spans corporate work, IVF, and launching a startup, offering valuable perspectives on work-life balance.

    • Business Growth & Expansion: ARC is preparing for new product releases in January 2025 and ensuring sufficient stock to meet demand.

    Topics Covered:

    Motherhood Challenges

    • Sleep deprivation remains a major hurdle, with frequent night awakenings.

    • Balancing work and family life, particularly during holidays, is a constant challenge.

    • Public outings, like visiting an aquarium, can be chaotic and stressful with young children.

    • Setting expectations and maintaining structure is crucial but difficult to achieve.

    IVF Journey

    • Sabrina underwent IVF while working in the corporate sector, requiring transparency with her employer.

    • The process involved self-administered hormone injections and frequent medical appointments.

    • Out of 17 retrieved eggs, only one viable embryo remained after genetic testing.

    • This experience deepened Sabrina's gratitude for both the IVF process and her body's resilience.

    ARC Headbands: The Ultimate Accessory for Moms

    • Marketed as a technology-driven headband, not just an accessory.

    • Made with premium Italian materials and manufactured by women in New York.

    • Designed for all-day comfort, eliminating headaches often caused by traditional headbands.

    • Enhances the wearer's natural features rather than overpowering their look.

    • Serves multiple purposes:

      • Covers unwashed hair effortlessly.

      • Helps moms feel put together quickly.

      • Safe for breastfeeding mothers.

    Business Growth & Future Plans

    • ARC has consistently sold out, driving efforts to scale production and meet customer demand.

    • A new product drop is scheduled for January 2025 with more innovative launches in the pipeline.

    • Exciting updates will be announced throughout 2025.

    • The company remains female-led, with recent investor Angela joining the board.

    Why ARC Headbands Stand Out

    • ARC's mission is to empower busy women by offering stylish, practical, and high-quality headbands. With expansion plans in place, ARC continues to redefine the way moms approach everyday fashion, making beauty effortless and accessible.

    Stay Updated

    • Follow ARC for the latest updates on new product launches, exclusive offers, and behind-the-scenes insights into the brand's evolution.

    About Sabrina Storozuk:

    Sabrina Storozuk is a tech entrepreneur who has made significant strides in modernizing traditional industries through technological innovation. Her expertise lies in identifying and transforming barriers and gaps into powerful opportunities. With a background that includes various tech ventures of her own, solution services as well as tech innovation consulting at PWC, she has led transformative projects in various global markets from small startups to large Fortune 500 firms. Her latest venture, ARC, is a blend of her technological acumen and her commitment to women's hair health.

    ARC is pioneering a new approach to headbands, elevating them beyond their conventional use.

    Connect with Sabrina:

    Instagram: @thesabrinastorozuk

    Website: https://www.wear-arc.com/

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting: https://calendly.com/talenttrek/prescreen

    Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelatait/

    Check out my Website: http://www.angelatait.com

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    SEO Keywords: ARC headbands, premium headbands for moms, stylish headbands, comfortable headbands, headbands for busy women, motherhood accessories, women-owned business, IVF success story, work-life balance, female entrepreneurs, Sabrina ARC, ARC 2025 product launch.

    47 min
  • 15. Brie Johnson | Transferable Superpowers: Recognizing Skills Motherhood Brings to Leadership

    Brie Johnson, an HR strategist and career coach, joins Angela Tait to discuss the challenges and rewards of balancing motherhood and leadership. From transitioning out of corporate life to embracing entrepreneurship, Brie shares her insights on redefining identity, navigating workplace biases, and leveraging motherhood as a leadership advantage.

    "Motherhood prepared me for leadership through dealing with the unexpected. Being able to adapt, adjust, and remain flexible is invaluable in both career and family."

    Key Takeaways
    • Reframe Work-Life Balance: View balance as a shifting pie chart rather than trying to give 100% to every aspect of life.

    • Motherhood Enhances Leadership Skills: Empathy, adaptability, and prioritization make mothers strong leaders.

    • Define Your Own Success: Avoid societal pressures and set personal benchmarks for success.

    • Challenge Workplace Biases: Advocate for flexibility and understanding towards working mothers.

    TOPICS: Redefining Work-Life Balance
    • Reject the unrealistic expectation of perfect balance.

    • View life as a pie chart with priorities shifting over time.

    • Give yourself permission to focus on different areas depending on life seasons.

    Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
    • Brie had a supportive boss during her fertility journey and early parenthood.

    • Financial analysis revealed that leaving her corporate role saved her $50,000 annually.

    • Her husband's confidence and support were crucial for a smooth transition.

    • Entrepreneurship allowed her to create a flexible schedule that aligned with her children's needs.

    Identity Shifts as a Mother & Career Advancement
    • Women often define themselves by relationships, while men are identified by work.

    • Skills gained through motherhood and volunteering are often undervalued.

    • Career coaching helps women recognize and articulate transferable skills for professional growth.

    Overcoming Biases Against Working Mothers
    • Brie faced questions about how family responsibilities would impact her work.

    • She challenged these biases by questioning whether the same concerns applied to fathers.

    • Advocated for flexible work environments that recognize the efficiency of working mothers.

    Leadership Lessons from Motherhood
    • Ability to handle unexpected challenges with grace.

    • Learning to let go of control and focus on impactful tasks.

    • Empathy towards team members' personal situations.

    • Reframing urgent deadlines to avoid unnecessary stress.

    Advice for New Working Mothers
    • Define personal success rather than conforming to societal standards.

    • Accept that pausing career progression during key life seasons is okay.

    • Balance financial, time, and emotional contributions to the family.

    Connect with Brie Johnson
    • Instagram: @bcjinsights

    • LinkedIn: Brianna Clark Johnson

    • Website: BCJ Insights HR

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting: https://calendly.com/talenttrek/prescreen

    Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelatait/

    Check out my Website: http://www.angelatait.com

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    42 min
  • 14. Abby Cornelius | Mentorship, Flexibility, and Empathy: Redefining Success for Working Moms in Corporate

    Abby Cornelius, a Director of Sales at Stanley Martin Homes and a podcast host, discusses balancing her career with motherhood. She has two daughters, a 10-year-old and a 7-year-old, and works a hybrid schedule, with two office days and field visits. Abby emphasizes the importance of finding a work-life balance that suits individual needs, sharing her journey from a career-driven individual to a mother who prioritized family time. She highlights the significance of mentorship, particularly from female leaders, and advocates for flexible work policies to support high achievers. Abby also stresses the importance of recognizing that one can have it all but not do it all, encouraging women to prioritize their personal exchange rate and seek support from their communities.

    "I can have it all but I can't do it all"

    Key Takeaways

    • Flexibility and empathy from employers are crucial for working parents' success and retention

    • Mentorship plays a vital role in women's career advancement and confidence

    • Work-life integration requires analyzing personal "exchange rates" to prioritize time/energy

    • Corporate culture shift needed to support diverse employee needs across life stages

    Learn More About:

    Abby's Career Journey

    • Transitioned from ambitious corporate career to stay-at-home mom, then back to corporate

    • Husband became stay-at-home parent to support Abby's career and spend more time with their children

    • She experienced burnout trying to "do it all" as a new mom in a demanding corporate role

    • Took 2.5 year break to run her own business and podcast before returning to corporate

    • Now Director of Sales at Stanley Martin Homes with flexible, supportive work arrangement and boss

    Workplace Flexibility

    • Abby negotiated a hybrid schedule to minimize commute time to spend more time with her kids and less in the car

    • Company allows flexibility to attend children's events and make up work later

    • Empathetic leadership from female boss with similar family situation

    • Flexibility enables high performers to excel in both work and family roles

    Mentorship for Women

    • Abby's key to finding a mentor: LinkedIn, managers at work, industry events and reaching out to people you look up to and are a few steps ahead of you in life that you admire

    • Mentors provide career guidance, emotional support, and different perspectives

    • Women with mentors advance faster and earn more in their careers

    • Advice: Be vulnerable, share struggles openly to get the most value from your mentor

    Work-Life Integration Strategies

    • Mantra: "I can have it all but I can't do it all"

    • Analyze personal "exchange rate" - time/energy input vs. outcomes

    • Focus on high-value activities that bring joy and results (e.g. 20 min quality time with kids)

    • Let go of pressure to do everything; rely on support system

    • Avoid comparison to other parents' choices

    Corporate Culture Evolution

    • Need shift from rigid policies to supporting employees across life stages

    • Providing flexibility often increases loyalty and productivity

    • Consider costs of turnover vs. accommodating valuable employees' needs

    • Apply empathy and human-centered approach to people on your team/ in the business

    About the Guest:

    Abby Cornelius is the Director of Sales at Stanley Martin Homes, bringing 20 years of experience in homebuilding with experience in new home sales, training, and leadership. A dedicated advocate for women in homebuilding, Abby is passionate about fostering winning teams and cultivating a culture of growth and excellence.

    As a people-first leader, she embraces servant leadership, ensuring her teams feel empowered, valued, and equipped for success. Her approach is rooted in mentorship, collaboration, and strategic growth, making a meaningful impact on both her colleagues and the industry. She is also the host of The Rise and Shine Podcast, focused on helping women in homebuilding rise professionally and shine personally.

    Beyond her professional achievements, Abby is deeply committed to building success in both her career and personal life, striving to be both an impactful leader and a present, engaged mom to her two daughters.

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting: https://calendly.com/talenttrek/prescreen

    Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelatait/

    Check out my Website: http://www.angelatait.com

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    45 min
  • 13. Jenna D'Annunzio | Thriving with Intuition: Motherhood, Business, and Emotional Strength

    Jenna recently co-authored a national bestseller with Tony Robbins and Jim Britt. She discusses her journey from social work to coaching, balancing motherhood and business, and the importance of adaptability. Jenna emphasizes the transferable skills from motherhood to leadership, such as emotional regulation and creating safe spaces. She also shares her love for reading and tapping (Emotional Freedom Technique) as self-care practices. Jenna advises new mothers to embrace adaptability and maintain self-care, highlighting the importance of harmonizing roles rather than balancing them.

    "Take your time and remember everything will be okay and be adaptable as children's needs constantly change. There's no manual - trust yourself as the expert on your children"

    Learn more about: Personal Background and Recent Achievements
    • Jenna is a holistic business, life, and success coach with 3 children (ages 10, 8, 6)

    • Recently turned 40 and co-authored "Cracking the Rich Code" which hit #1 on international bestseller lists

    • Transitioned from teaching and case management to coaching, working with her father's company

    Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship
    • Describes balance as fluid - some days 70/30 business/home, others vice versa

    • Emphasizes adaptability and being present for both roles

    • Invites children to participate in self-care activities like reading, tapping, meditation

    Leadership and Team Management
    • Creates safe spaces by openly declaring intentions and checking in regularly

    • Uses intuition to sense team members' emotional states and offers support

    • Provides flexibility for working parents, reminding them to use time off when needed

    Self-Care and Identity
    • Enjoys reading fantasy novels as escapism from professional development material

    • Practices EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) tapping to manage stress and regulate emotions

    • Invites children to join in self-care activities, modeling healthy habits

    Advice for New Mothers and Aspiring Leaders
    • Take your time and remember everything will be okay

    • Be adaptable as children's needs constantly change

    • There's no manual - trust yourself as the expert on your children

    • You're doing a great job in a challenging role

    Connect with Jenna:

    Linkedin

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting

    Connect on LinkedIn

    Check out my Website

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    35 min
  • 12. Dr. Angela Buckley | Shaping Organizational Culture While Avoiding Burn Out

    Dr. Angela Buckley, a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and founder of Gratitude Leadership Collective, discusses balancing motherhood and a demanding corporate career. She highlights her son's Eagle Scout project, which involves building bike racks for a local mountain biking team. Angela shares her experiences with unpaid maternity leave, the challenges of childcare, and the importance of paternity leave. She emphasizes the significance of gratitude in the workplace, advocating for a culture that values employee contributions and well-being. Angela also discusses her method for deep acknowledgments in the workplace, aiming to reduce turnover and foster a positive work environment.

    "I think we all have to admit that you can't have all of the things all of the time, and so understanding that there's an ebb and flow in life." Learn more about: Eagle Scout Project and Family Dynamics
    • Dr. Buckley discusses her son's Eagle Scout project, which involves building bike racks for a local mountain biking team.

    • The project has grown significantly, with a waiting list and strict criteria for coaches to ensure quality.

    • Dr. Buckley emphasizes the importance of teamwork and individual development in the project.

    • Angela expresses interest in learning more about the project and its impact on her own experiences with Boy Scouts.

    Balancing Corporate Life and Motherhood
    • Dr. Buckley shares her experience of traveling extensively for work and the challenges of unpaid maternity leave.

    • She highlights the lack of childcare support and the necessity of her husband taking paternity leave to help with the baby.

    • Angela relates to the difficulties of returning to work shortly after childbirth and the logistical challenges of finding childcare.

    • Both speakers discuss the broader issues of maternity support and the impact on women's careers.

    Challenges in the Workplace
    • Dr. Buckley talks about the male-dominated environment in her field and the lack of understanding from male colleagues.

    • She shares anecdotes about being kept out late by colleagues and the challenges of balancing work and family.

    • Angela discusses the difficulty of advocating for maternity leave and other support systems in a male-dominated leadership team.

    • Both speakers emphasize the need for better policies to support working mothers and the long-term effects of current policies.

    Supporting Women in the Workforce
    • Dr. Buckley discusses the importance of having female role models in the workplace and the challenges of being a token female.

    • Angela shares her experience of not wanting to advocate for herself and the impact on her leadership role.

    • Both speakers highlight the importance of supporting other women in the workplace and creating a supportive environment.

    • Dr. Buckley emphasizes the need for organizations to provide better support systems for working mothers.

    Harmonizing Motherhood and Professional Life
    • Dr. Buckley talks about the importance of understanding the ebb and flow of life and balancing multiple commitments.

    • She shares her experiences of juggling professional and personal life, including her involvement in racing and music.

    • Angela discusses the challenges of balancing work and family, especially with children involved in multiple activities.

    • Both speakers emphasize the importance of planning and logistics in managing their busy schedules.

    Musical Background and Its Impact on Professional Life
    • Dr. Buckley discusses the importance of a musical background in developing emotional maturity and good listening skills.

    • She shares her experience of using music as a form of stress relief during her corporate travels.

    • Angela talks about the challenges of balancing work and music, especially with young children.

    • Both speakers emphasize the value of music in personal and professional development.

    Teaching CEOs About Childcare Pickup
    • Dr. Buckley shares her experience of teaching a CEO about the challenges of childcare pickup and the impact of late meetings.

    • She explains the financial and logistical challenges of being late for childcare and the importance of ending meetings on time.

    • Dr. Buckley implemented a system of fines for late meetings to encourage punctuality and better time management.

    • The CEO supported the initiative, and it led to a cultural shift in the organization.

    Creating a Positive Work Environment
    • Dr. Buckley discusses the importance of gratitude and creating a positive work environment to reduce turnover.

    • She shares her approach of using gratitude as an organizational value to build loyalty and trust among employees.

    • Dr. Buckley offers leadership development and coaching services to help organizations improve their culture and reduce burnout.

    • She emphasizes the importance of recognizing employees' contributions and providing a supportive environment.

    The Four Perspectives of Gratitude
    • Dr. Buckley explains the four perspectives of gratitude: fleeting, affirmative, internal, and reflective.

    • She discusses the importance of deep acknowledgements and celebrations of employees' work and efforts.

    • Dr. Buckley shares her method of the Spirit method of acknowledgement to provide meaningful feedback and recognition.

    • She emphasizes the value of focusing on leading indicators and building a positive work environment.

    About the Guest:

    Developing the right training and development program is the key to retaining employees and successful employee proficiency. As a proven LTD Executive, I understand and assist clients/customers in developing the optimum training solutions, tailored uniquely to meet each business' needs. Collaborating with leaders and key stakeholders across business areas to identify issues and opportunities and tie them to Key Performance Indicators, I direct training towards overcoming actual business needs and address underlying performance obstacles. As companies reorganize to gain a competitive edge, a proficient HR Leader plays a key role in helping companies deal with a fast-changing environment and the greater demand for quality employees. As an HR Leader, this is precisely what I wish to bring forth to your company: to be the 'enabling' factor.

    Through the years, I have accumulated expertise in steering multi-functional domains with highly reputed business establishments. With in-depth knowledge of Training & Development, my areas of expertise revolve around delivering efficient Human Resource solutions. I possess outstanding people skills in managing personnel and ensure that human resources programs and initiatives are effective, efficient, and aligned to overall business objectives.

    I look forward to discussing delivering high-impact HR solutions through my dedication to handling multiple functions and activities under high-pressure environments & tight deadlines.

    Connect with Dr. Buckley:

    Linkedin

    E-mail me: [email protected]

    Free Spirit Workbook:

    Free Burnout Assessment Likeable Leadership Reflection Journal 1 Likeable Leadership Reflection Journal 2

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting

    Connect on LinkedIn

    Check out my Website

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    50 min
  • 11. Diana Sausser | From Boardrooms to Playrooms: The Three C's of Success and Motherhood

    Diana discusses balancing her career at a tech company with motherhood. She emphasizes the importance of connection with her kids, communication with her co-parent, and leaning on her community for support. Diana highlights the challenges of managing a busy schedule with two young boys, including coordinating childcare and maintaining work-life balance. She shares practical tips like using meal kits and planning family activities. Diana also stresses the significance of self-care and the support from her employer, which offers generous family leave and flexible work policies.

    "It's not selfish to take time for yourself. Invest in yourself so that you can give your family the best of you and not just what's left over."

    Learn more about: Balancing Priorities and Juggling Responsibilities
    • Diana discusses the importance of prioritizing activities and recognizing that it's impossible to do everything.

    • Emphasizes the need to differentiate between "rubber balls" (less important tasks) and "glass" (critical responsibilities).

    • Highlights the importance of health, career, marriage, and quality time with kids.

    • Acknowledges that some hobbies and activities may need to be put on hold temporarily.

    Diana's Journey and Balancing Life
    • Diana congratulates Angela on her podcast and expresses pride in her friend's achievements.

    • Angela and Diana discuss the challenges of being a working mom and the importance of support from each other.

    • Diana shares her approach to balancing life, emphasizing connection with kids, communication with co-parents, and leaning on the community.

    • She describes "magic Mom-Me time" and the importance of quality time with kids, especially when traveling for work.

    Creating Special Moments and One-on-One Time
    • Diana talks about making everyday moments special by asking interesting questions and engaging with kids.

    • Angela shares her experience of having "Mom-Me dates" with her son, Oliver, and the importance of one-on-one time.

    • They discuss the book "Family Boardroom" and its recommendation of dedicating four hours a quarter to one child for special experiences.

    • Diana emphasizes the importance of building connections and creating safe spaces for kids.

    Communication and Role Clarity
    • Diana highlights the importance of communication in balancing work and family life.

    • They discuss the challenges of managing schedules and the benefits of having a shared family calendar.

    • Angela and Diana talk about the importance of role clarity and how they manage responsibilities at home and work.

    • Diana mentions the concept of scoring daily contributions to the household and how it helps in managing expectations.

    Planning and Outsourcing to Simplify Life
    • Diana shares tips on meal planning and outsourcing to simplify life, including using meal kits and doing meal prep.

    • They discuss the benefits of scheduling school drop-offs and coordinating work schedules.

    • Angela and Diana talk about the challenges of working from home with kids and the importance of setting boundaries.

    • Diana emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding ways to stay productive and healthy.

    Supportive Work Environments and Maternity Leave
    • Diana praises her current tech company for its supportive work environment and generous maternity leave policies.

    • They discuss the importance of men taking paternity leave to support women and reduce discrimination.

    • Angela shares her experience of working up until delivery and the challenges of adjusting to new motherhood.

    • Diana advises new moms to give themselves grace and not to expect immediate success after returning to work.

    Balancing Work and Personal Life
    • Diana talks about the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing family time.

    • They discuss the challenges of balancing work and personal life and the importance of self-care.

    • Angela and Diana share their experiences of managing work and family responsibilities and the importance of support from partners and communities.

    • Diana emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and finding ways to recharge.

    Community and Support Systems
    • Diana highlights the importance of leaning on community and support systems for self-care.

    • They discuss the benefits of joining new mom groups and participating in community activities.

    • Angela and Diana talk about the importance of having a support network and how it helps in managing the challenges of motherhood.

    • Diana shares her experiences of participating in groups like New Mom School and Bloom, and how they provided valuable support and education.

    About the Guest:

    Diana Sausser is an Account Director in enterprise software sales, specializing in solving complex business problems and delivering high-value software solutions to large organizations. With over a decade of experience in technology sales at some of the largest software companies in the US, Diana has honed her expertise in digital customer experience and enterprise resource planning solutions.

    A Southern California native, Diana is also a dedicated wife and mom to two energetic boys, aged 3 and 5. When she's not adventuring with her boys or navigating the dynamic world of tech sales, she loves traveling, being outdoors, practicing pilates, singing, and indulging in interior design projects. Diana is passionate about supporting women in tech and the community of working moms.

    Connect with Diana:

    LinkedIn

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting

    Connect on LinkedIn

    Check out my Website

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    46 min
  • 10. Closing the Year Strong: Gratitude, Growth, and Goals for the New Year

    In the last episode of the year of the Mom-Me podcast, host Angela Tait celebrates reaching 10 episodes and 10 ratings, reflecting on the journey of connecting working mothers. Key lessons include the importance of calibration over balance, the power of community, and embracing imperfections. Angela emphasizes that ambition is not selfish but models resilience for children. She encourages listeners to reflect on 2024, share wins, and set intentions for 2025, focusing on growth, harmony, and celebrating small victories. Angela invites feedback and engagement, aiming to continue fostering a supportive community for working mothers.

    "Mama, you are doing an amazing job. You are enough, and every step you take, no matter how small, is building the life you want for yourself and your family."

    Learn more about: Celebrating Milestones and Reflecting on 2024
    • Angela expresses gratitude to listeners for their support and acknowledges the podcast's growth from a passion project to a meaningful community.

    • The episode marks the 10th episode and 10 ratings, symbolizing a significant milestone as the year ends.

    • Angela reflects on the journey of connecting with other working moms and the importance of community support.

    • The focus of the episode is on celebrating lessons learned, reflecting on 2024, and looking ahead to 2025 with hope and intention.

    Calibrating Work and Home Demands
    • Angela discusses the concept of balancing ambition with motherhood, emphasizing that balance is hard to achieve and suggesting the term "calibration" instead.

    • The idea of calibration is likened to a scale, where different aspects of life are balanced but not necessarily equal at all times.

    • Angela shares personal struggles with guilt when pursuing career goals while being a mother and the importance of community support.

    • The lesson emphasizes that ambition is not selfish but models resilience and drive for children, and it's okay to focus on both motherhood and career.

    The Power of Community
    • Angela highlights the importance of building a community, especially for new moms and those with toddlers, teenagers, or adult children.

    • Different life stages present unique challenges, but a supportive community is crucial for navigating them.

    • The podcast has provided a platform for connecting with other moms and sharing stories, which has been beneficial for Angela.

    • The lesson reinforces the idea that we are stronger together and the value of having a support system.

    Embracing Imperfections
    • Angela talks about the unrealistic expectation of perfection and the importance of embracing imperfections.

    • The concept of practice making progress rather than striving for perfection is introduced.

    • Angela shares a personal anecdote about discussing perfection with her son and the realization that it sets one up for failure.

    • The lesson encourages learning from challenges and reframing negative experiences to find positives.

    Reflecting on 2024 and Looking Forward to 2025
    • Angela invites listeners to reflect on their wins and lessons from 2024 and share them for mutual learning.

    • The "stop, start, continue" model is introduced as a tool for setting intentions for the new year.

    • Angela expresses a desire to continue the podcast in 2025, appreciating the stories and connections made through it.

    • The focus for 2025 is on growth, harmony, and prioritizing what truly matters, with three guiding principles: prioritizing what matters, celebrating small wins, and staying connected.

    Setting Intentions for 2025
    • Angela shares personal intentions for 2025, including stepping into the next level of growth and harmony.

    • The importance of prioritizing what truly matters and leaving behind guilt is emphasized.

    • Celebrating small wins and staying connected with the community are highlighted as key strategies for 2025.

    • Angela encourages listeners to set their own intentions and join her in setting goals for the new year.

    Connect with Angela:

    Book a Meeting

    Connect on LinkedIn

    Check out my Website

    **Check out our best selling collaborative book with other female founders on Amazon: Taking the Plunge**

    13 min

About Mom-Me

From the publisher's feed

"Mom-Me" is the podcast for ambitious women who are leading in the corporate world or building their own businesses—all while navigating the joys and demands of motherhood. From managing teams and…