"The truth is you do need to be a superwoman to have a successful career and be a present parent and we need to be honest about this".

Wise words from today's guest, Stacey O'Dea.

This honesty is exactly what I want to bring to this podcast. Because when you hear that in order for someone to have a big job and a family, they're dropping balls all over the place that you just can't see, then it makes you feel less alone in your own juggle.

Stacey has a few non-negotiables to support her blend of work and family, and – maybe more importantly – to help change things for other working mothers around her.

1. She loudly works flexibly. No hanging a jacket on the back of her chair and pretending she's in a meeting

2. She's honest about the trade offs, and the compromises she's chosen to have a big job and be a present parent

3. She picked (and kept) a partner who supports her career ambitions and does plenty of heavy lifting at home – and she's not afraid to ask, well what is their partner doing at home? When a woman steps back from work

I'm so excited to be talking to COO of PWC for the past 5 years, and now Head of Clients and Markets for the firm about what it honestly takes.