You know that friend who tells you what you need to hear? The one who has a totally different perspective and can speak the truth with love? Working mom of three Emily Scurry is that friend to me.

After a recent pep talk where she encouraged me to look a hard situation in the face - and thereby turned my month around - I knew we had to record one of our work-week lunchtime chats. And here it is! Consider this your official invitation to eavesdrop. 

We walk through what we wish we'd known in our first jobs about fear, empathy, working moms and more. We talk about juggling work, motherhood, self-care, extracurriculars, family traditions, societal expectations and our own priorities.

About how we can't always be at the preschool Thanksgiving luncheon where your toddler refuses to eat mashed potatoes while looking adorable in a tiny pilgrim hat. About how we can instill security in our children while teaching them that sometimes life will bring disappointments. 

About why there should be TWO sets of Mother's Days and Father's Days (this one may get me into some trouble). About learning to admit we're turning off our phones and not checking work emails for the night, or leaving early to take a child to the dentist. About being brave as we advocate for ourselves, negotiate for raises, articulate what we need and ask the neighbors over for post-kiddie-bedtime wine and socializing.

Whatever your age, parenting or work status, you'll walk away from this episode with a fresh set of eyes for your circumstances. Learn to cut yourself a little extra slack and throw grace around like confetti - especially in your own direction. 

Listen in on lunch with my friend, then find us at @butnotallatonce to let us know your favorite takeaways!

Thanks for being here, y'all! I'd love your thoughts, questions, ideas, and everything in between. You can find me at @ButNotAllAtOnce on social media or ButNotAllAtOnce.com.

For extra content, additional episodes, and upcoming guest follow-ups, visit Patreon.