6. Motherhood, Career, and the Courage to Chase Your Dreams with Rachel Wilman

Have you ever had a dream that just won't stop bugging you? That's what happened with Rachel when she was about to return from maternity leave...In this episode, Jen sits down with Rachel Wilman, to talk about career pivots, creativity after motherhood, and what it really takes to chase your dream while raising a little one.Rachel shares:How she decided to leap and go after her dream of writing a novel, while also juggling a full time job and a new babyThe pressure moms feel to “do it all” and why support systems (like her wife, nanny, and even her diva cat) are essential.Why perfectionism kills creativity; and how she learned to just start, even when things felt messy.The hidden side of publishing: why even bestselling authors often keep their day jobs.Her honest take on balancing ambition, motherhood, and sanity.This conversation is a reminder that motherhood doesn’t have to shrink your dreams. Sometimes, it gives you the courage to finally pursue them.Meet & Connect 🤝Rachel Wilman is toddler mom, full-time communications professional in higher education, and soon-to-be published author. As a multi-genre writer, Rachel is inspired by unspoken truths and unusual worlds. She is writing her first novel, with three others on the back-burner. In 2026, her first published short story will appear in HenDragon Press’ debut fantasy anthology, “Through Wilds and Warnings.” Between meetings and toddler play-time, Rachel loves walking barefoot, reading, and wishing it would rain. She lives in Southern California with her wife, daughter, and inconvenienced cat. 💻 www.rachelwilman.com 📲 https://www.tiktok.com/@rachel.wilman 🤳 https://www.instagram.com/rachel.wilman/✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ You don’t have to choose between ambition and motherhood. Jen helps women navigate career transitions after motherhood: whether you’re ready to advance without burning out, explore entrepreneurship, or find clarity when you know your current role isn’t it. Through private, high-touch 1:1 coaching, you can build a career and life that feels as good as it looks, without the guilt, overwhelm, or constant second-guessing. Book your private consultation Not quite ready for coaching? Start with The Working Mom Reset—a 7-day email experience to help you recover from overwhelm & finally feel like you again. Consider it your first step toward a life you enjoy instead of one you’re just getting through. Stay connected for more honest, curated support: Instagram → @leadwithjen → @thesustainablemompodcast Threads → @leadwithjen Substack → The Sustainable Mom