Who Are You at Work After Kids? with Claude Silver

What does it actually mean to “be yourself” at work – especially as a parent?And is “authenticity” even the right goal anymore?Because for many mothers, the question isn’t just who am I at work?It’s:Which version of me is allowed here?What do I keep in? What do I edit out?And what does it cost to keep performing?Claude Silver has built her career around these questions.As Chief Heart Officer of VaynerX, she leads culture and people for 2,000+ employees globally, partnering with Gary Vaynerchuk to build one of the most human-centered organizations in modern business. Her work has been recognized by Campaign US and Adweek, and she’s advised organizations from Google and Meta to government agencies on leadership and culture.But her path there was anything but linear.Claude grew up feeling like an outsider – navigating dyslexia, low self-confidence, and years of searching for identity and belonging. The work she does today is rooted in that experience: understanding the internal voice that shapes how we show up… and learning how to challenge it.In this conversation, we explore what it really takes to know yourself – and to build a life and career that reflect that truth, even as the demands of work and family collide.We talk about:– The difference between “performing” and actually being yourself at work– Why high-achieving women often lose access to their own identity after kids– How to challenge the negative inner voice – and find real evidence against it– The invisible, internal work that no one sees (but shapes everything)– What changes – structurally and psychologically – when you become a parent– And how leaders can create environments where people don’t have to split themselves in twoClaude is also the author of Be Yourself at Work, a guide to building self-awareness, confidence, and more human workplaces.This is a conversation about identity, self-worth, and the reality of trying to build a meaningful career while raising a family – without losing yourself in the process.*******⭐️ Follow The Mothers and leave a 5-star review if this resonated💬 Share this episode with someone who needs to hear it📱 Join The Mothers on Instagram @themotherspod✍️ Subscribe to ⁠⁠Sara’s Substack⁠⁠ for reflections on life, work, meaning & motherhood💼 Find Sara on ⁠LinkedInThe Mothers is a production of Backline Media.