Work in Progress: Moms Edition

This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, Jessie and Sarah welcome back their first repeat guest, career coach Cristin Downs. Cristin works with career changers, layoff rebounders, leaders, and new managers, and she’s someone both Jessie and Sarah leaned on during their own job searches.In today’s job market, job scams are everywhere. But how do you actually spot them?Cristin joins us to break down the growing rise of fake job postings and recruiting scams, why job seekers, especially those navigating layoffs or career transitions, can be particularly vulnerable, and the red flags everyone should know before hitting “apply.”We talk about:​ How common job scams really are right now​ The most frequent types of scams targeting job seekers​ Warning signs hidden in job postings and recruiter outreach​ Practical ways to verify whether a job is legitimate​ How busy parents job searching at night (or between kid chaos) can stay safe without slowing down their momentumCristin also shares an empowering mindset shift for navigating today’s challenging job market.And of course, we wrap things up with our weekly segment Kids Chaos, because parenting doesn’t pause just because you’re trying to land your next role.If you’re currently job hunting, pivoting careers, or just want to protect yourself in an increasingly complicated job market, this episode is a must-listen.

This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re joined by communications professional Erin Kelly to talk about what happens when maternity leave takes an unexpected turn.What should have been a season of bonding and adjusting to life with a newborn became something else entirely: a layoff. In this episode, Erin shares what it was like to receive that news during the most vulnerable stage of early motherhood — and how it impacted her identity as both a professional and a mom.We talk about:The moment she found out and what went through her mindHow postpartum emotions collided with job lossThe mental load of caring for a newborn while processing uncertaintyThe realities of childcare, finances, and redefining timelinesWhat support actually helps (and what doesn’t)What employers need to better understand about layoffs during maternity leaveErin also shares the unexpected clarity that came from disruption, her LinkedIn challenge, and a relatable dose of kids chaos to remind us that even in the hardest seasons, there’s still humor to be found.If you’ve ever questioned your identity outside of your job, faced uncertainty during maternity leave, or tried to rebuild while running on no sleep — this conversation is for you.You’re not alone. And like always, we’re figuring it out together. 💛

WELCOME to another episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition! We’re Jessie & Sarah, and this week, we’re officially back, shooting the shit, catching up, and easing back into podcasting like it’s our first day after winter break.Like everything else in mom life, this episode is… delayed. Think of it as our podcast having a 2-hour delay, just like school did every single day this week (looking at you, Clive 👀❄️).We’re talking about surviving sick season, snow days, and the absolute chaos of trying to work, job hunt, or be productive when your kids are home nonstop. From constant interruptions to the mental load of holding it all together, this one is a very real look at parenting in survival mode.Before we dive in, we check in on how we’re actually doing, and of course, we wrap it up with Kids Chaos, because there’s always a story when everyone’s home all week.If your routine has been blown up by snow, sickness, or school delays… same. You’re not alone, and we’re glad you’re here.

In this episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, Jessie and Sarah get real about the hidden cost of trying to “do it all.” Raised on 90s girl power and told we could have everything—career, motherhood, identity, balance—we’re now discovering the truth no one prepared us for: you can’t hold it all at the same time.We talk about the guilt, grief, resentment, exhaustion, and constant pull between competing versions of ourselves—and why feeling this way doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means the equation was impossible to begin with.If you’ve ever felt stretched thin, conflicted, or like you’re falling short no matter what you do, this conversation is for you.Plus, as always, we wrap things up with our weekly segment, Kids Chaos, because life is nothing if not a little unhinged.🎧 New episodes weekly.

We’re backkkk! 🎉After a little holiday break, Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition is officially kicking off 2026 with a much-needed catch-up episode.In this first episode of the year, Sarah and Jessie recap the whirlwind of the holidays, family time, survival mode moments, and everything in between. Jessie also shares exciting news about a brand-new venture she’s launching in 2026 — a program inspired by a successful trial at Sadie’s school, focused on helping kids build confidence through emotional awareness and role-playing. (We’re obsessed.)It’s a conversation full of reflection, fresh starts, and that familiar reminder that growth rarely looks linear — especially in motherhood.And of course, we wrap things up with Kids Chaos, because no comeback episode would be complete without it.If you’re easing back into routine, dreaming up something new, or just trying to survive January — this one’s for you.

This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re joined by healthcare trailblazer Dr. Samantha Fazio Semar, founder of Pelvio Physical Therapy and mom to one-year-old Avery. Dr. Sam (@pelvio.pt) is on a mission to make pelvic floor care more accessible and to revolutionize pregnancy and postpartum rehabilitation in Philadelphia.We dive into what pelvic floor physical therapy actually is, common misconceptions, and why every mom (yes, even the ones who’ve peed in the woods 🙋‍♀️) should know about it. Sam also opens up about running her own practice, balancing motherhood, and finding strength—literally and figuratively—through all of it.Raw, real, and unexpectedly hilarious, this episode reminds us that taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your family.

In this special Thanksgiving episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, Jessie & Sarah are back to talk honestly about unemployment, motherhood, gratitude, and—of course—the holiday chaos that comes with it.While we’re not big fans of toxic positivity, we are fans of real talk. And this year, even in the middle of job searching and uncertainty, we’ve found a few things we’re genuinely grateful for: time with our kids, space to reflect, unexpected moments of connection, and this podcast—our favorite corner of the internet.We kick things off with our Thanksgiving plans (spoiler: there are kids, logistics, and carbs involved), then dive into what gratitude looks like during a hard season. This isn’t the Pinterest-perfect version of thankfulness—it’s the honest, messy, mom-in-transition version.And, as always, we close with Kids Chaos, our weekly segment where we share a moment from our lives that’s funny, sweet, relatable, or straight-up meltdown material.If you're navigating motherhood, job hunting, or just trying to get through Thanksgiving in one piece—you’re in good company.

Welcome back to Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition — the podcast where we get real about unemployment, motherhood, ambition, and figuring out what the next chapter looks like.This week, we’re sitting down with someone who embodies all of it: Kristy Kilduff, founder of Awakened Achiever, a growing community designed for ambitious women and moms who have checked every box of “success” but still feel disconnected from peace, presence, and purpose.A nearly 20-year corporate veteran, sales executive at a major corporation, and mom of three under eight, Kristy joins us to talk about the moment she realized something had to change — and how she began redefining success from the inside out.We dive into:✨ What it means to rewrite your relationship with ambition✨ The pressure high-achieving moms face (and how to loosen it)✨ Why wellness can coexist with big goals✨ The three pillars of Awakened Achiever: clarifying priorities, reconnecting with purpose, and cultivating community✨ Simple, low-pressure wellness habits moms can actually maintain✨ What the next 5–10 years could look like for working moms✨ And of course… Kids Chaos — Kristy’s hilarious weekly mom momentIf you’re a mom feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to move forward, Kristy’s story and insights are exactly what you need today.Instagram & TikTok: @awakenedachieverWebsite: awakenedachiever.comJoin the Awakened Achiever Community:https://community.awakenedachiever.com/invitation?code=BB55GE

ICYMI! This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re joined by the amazing Kerrie Carden, CEO and founder of Equip Advisory. Kerrie’s firm focuses on serving Queer, Trans, and BIPOC communities with financial planning, career coaching, and business advising — all with a strengths-based, community-first approach.Together, we dive into the real-life challenges of navigating money, motherhood, and the messy middle of layoffs. Kerrie shares:How to financially prepare for a layoff before it happensWhat to do in the first weeks after losing a jobBudgeting strategies for long stretches of unemploymentTools and tips for keeping your finances on trackAdvice for partners supporting someone through a layoffPlus, Kerrie gets real about running a business while raising 3 boys (and a few fur babies 🐾).This episode is packed with practical advice and relatable stories that we know you’ll love.Learn more about Kerrie and her work at ⁠equipadvisory.com⁠.

In this episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re joined by the insightful Cristin Downs, a coach for career changers, layoff rebounders, leaders, and new managers — and a mom to a 10-year-old boy. Both of us worked with Cristin during our own career pivots, and her perspective is exactly what so many moms need in today’s unpredictable job market.We dive into:💼 The unique challenges moms face when job hunting, re-entering, or pivoting careers🤖 How AI and ATS systems are changing the application process (and what really matters)📈 How to talk confidently about career gaps and caregiving breaks💪 Turning parenting, volunteering, and household management into powerful professional skills🔥 Staying motivated through long job searches — without burning outCristin brings both honesty and optimism to the realities of modern work, reminding us that progress isn’t always linear — but it’s always possible.Learn more about Cristin’s work at workandworthcoach.comBooks Mentioned:📚 Work Won’t Love You Back by Sarah Jaffe🌎 A History of the World in Seven Cheap Things by Jason W. Moore & Raj Patel

In this week’s episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re diving into the latest (and honestly, frustrating) news about the widening gender pay gap. For the first time since the 1960s, the pay gap between men and women has grown — women are now earning 80.9 cents for every dollar men make, down from 84 cents just two years ago.We break down a recent Washington Post article, “Women are taking pay cuts as companies mandate return to office,” and discuss what this means for working moms, job seekers, and anyone trying to balance career and family in 2025.Of course, before we get too serious, we kick things off with our usual check-in — motherhood updates, job hunt chaos, and a little humor to keep it all in perspective.Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts and join us as we unpack how “progress” sometimes feels like it’s moving backward — and what we can do about it.

In this week’s episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re diving deep into the emotional side of motherhood — the parts we don’t always talk about. We’re joined by licensed clinical professional counselor and founder of Treehouse Therapy, Allie McQuaid (@millennialmomtherapist), to talk all things mental health, motherhood, and identity.From the pressures of “doing it all” to the constant dance between mom guilt, burnout, and rediscovering who you are beyond parenting, Allie helps us unpack why so many moms feel stretched thin — and what we can actually do about it.We talk about small, realistic ways to protect your mental health, redefining success when your path looks different than expected, and how to find yourself again amid the chaos of motherhood.If you’ve ever felt lost, overwhelmed, or just plain exhausted — this one’s for you.🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts, and follow Allie for more insight at @millennialmomtherapist

This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re joined by healthcare trailblazer Dr. Samantha Fazio Semar, founder of Pelvio Physical Therapy and mom to one-year-old Avery. Dr. Sam (@pelvio.pt) is on a mission to make pelvic floor care more accessible and to revolutionize pregnancy and postpartum rehabilitation in Philadelphia.We dive into what pelvic floor physical therapy actually is, common misconceptions, and why every mom (yes, even the ones who’ve peed in the woods 🙋‍♀️) should know about it. Sam also opens up about running her own practice, balancing motherhood, and finding strength—literally and figuratively—through all of it.Raw, real, and unexpectedly hilarious, this episode reminds us that taking care of yourself is part of taking care of your family.

WELCOME to another episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition! We’re Sarah and Jessie, two working moms navigating yet another week of motherhood, chaos, and curveballs.This week, we’re talking about the unexpected—and in Sarah’s case, that means her husband breaking his hip (yes, really), leaving her temporarily a mom of four. From juggling recovery schedules and kid meltdowns to still trying to hold it all together, we’re diving into what happens when life completely derails your plans.It’s raw, a little ridiculous, and very real. Plus, we share some Kids Chaos moments and a little coffee-fueled catch-up to keep things light—because if you don’t laugh, you’ll cry.If you’ve ever had life knock you sideways, this one’s for you.

This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re joined by the amazing Kerrie Carden, CEO and founder of Equip Advisory. Kerrie’s firm focuses on serving Queer, Trans, and BIPOC communities with financial planning, career coaching, and business advising — all with a strengths-based, community-first approach.Together, we dive into the real-life challenges of navigating money, motherhood, and the messy middle of layoffs. Kerrie shares:How to financially prepare for a layoff before it happensWhat to do in the first weeks after losing a jobBudgeting strategies for long stretches of unemploymentTools and tips for keeping your finances on trackAdvice for partners supporting someone through a layoffPlus, Kerrie gets real about running a business while raising 3 boys (and a few fur babies 🐾).This episode is packed with practical advice and relatable stories that we know you’ll love.Learn more about Kerrie and her work at equipadvisory.com.

We’re baaaack! 🎉 Season 2 of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition is here, and we’re kicking things off with a topic that might just be the golden ticket in today’s job market: networking. Love it or hate it, it’s part of the game — and we’re breaking down how we’ve approached it, from awkward LinkedIn DMs to in-person events, plus tips for introverts, extroverts, and moms just trying to juggle it all.And of course, we couldn’t start a new season without our favorite segment: Kids Chaos.

Reposting this week, because life. But we have a fitting episode ... In this week’s episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re talking about transitions — the big, messy, emotional kind. Sarah is back at work after 18 months of unemployment and adjusting to the chaos of full-time life outside the house with three kids at home. Jessie is navigating life with a newborn and a toddler, while also trying to figure out when (and how) to re-enter the job market.We get honest about what these big life shifts really feel like — the mental load, the identity shifts, the guilt, the wins, and all the complicated feelings in between. If you’re in a season of change (or just figuring it out day by day), this one’s for you.Plus, we wrap things up with our favorite weekly segment: Kids Chaos — because what’s life without a little spilled milk?

This week, we're keeping it short—kind of like our current list of hobbies, lol. Sarah and Jessie unpack the pressure to have hobbies as moms. What counts? Does self-care qualify? And is doing absolutely nothing a valid pastime? (Spoiler: yes.)

REPLAY -- In this episode, we’re talking all things interviews — the prep, the pressure, the post-interview spiral, and everything in between. As two moms navigating unemployment, we share how we approach interviews after layoffs, the emotional highs and lows of the process, and how we’re staying grounded (sort of) through it all.Plus, we’re debuting our new segment, Parenting in Public, where we unpack the everyday challenges parents face — like why checkout lanes have become candy-coated battle zones.Whether you’re in the job hunt or just need a dose of real talk and humor, this one’s for you.

👻 This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re talking about a hauntingly common part of the job search: ghosting. Whether it's crickets after applying or disappearing recruiters mid-process, we’re breaking down why it happens — including insights from this Forbes article by Jack Kelly that explains the all-too-familiar phenomenon.We also shake things up in our Kids Chaos segment by sharing your submissions — from sleepwalking performances to poop catches midair (yes, really), these chaotic gems are too good to keep to ourselves.So whether you’re dealing with rejection emails or just refreshing your inbox in vain, you’re not alone. Tune in and spiral with us (but in a funny way).🎧 New episode out now wherever you get your podcasts!

This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re joined by Stephanie Giunta, marketing director, mom of two, and creator of the Chief Mothering Officer podcast and newsletter. We talk about her layoff experience, the identity shift that comes with it, and how she found her voice (and power) as a “Laid Off Mom.”She shares how she navigated the emotional toll of job hunting while parenting, how the time away changed her perspective on work, and what she'd say to any mom going through the same thing.Don’t miss this one — and be sure to check out the article that stopped us in our scrolls: "What Is a Laid Off Mom (LOM)?" by Stephanie Giunta.

In this week’s episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re talking about transitions — the big, messy, emotional kind. Sarah is back at work after 18 months of unemployment and adjusting to the chaos of full-time life outside the house with three kids at home. Jessie is navigating life with a newborn and a toddler, while also trying to figure out when (and how) to re-enter the job market.We get honest about what these big life shifts really feel like — the mental load, the identity shifts, the guilt, the wins, and all the complicated feelings in between. If you’re in a season of change (or just figuring it out day by day), this one’s for you.Plus, we wrap things up with our favorite weekly segment: Kids Chaos — because what’s life without a little spilled milk?

We’ve got BIG news on this week’s episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition — Jessie had her baby! 💕 We’re sharing all the details: her birth story, big sister duties, postpartum surprises, and the joyful chaos of life with two kids.Meanwhile, Sarah’s fresh off a beach tri, job juggling, and one very dramatic picture frame incident.You know the drill: real talk, lots of laughs, and a little chaos. Welcome to The Littlest Work in Progress.

This week, we welcome our very first guest — Paige Connell, the powerhouse mom of four behind the popular Instagram account @sheisapaigeturner. Paige is changing the narrative around the mental load moms carry and offers real-life tips for redistributing that load at home.We talk about what sparked her journey, how to start tough (but necessary) conversations with your partner, and why guilt shouldn't be a mom’s default setting. She also shares how she's raising more mindful, load-sharing kids — and what big change she wishes all parents could wake up to tomorrow.You’ll laugh, you’ll feel seen, and you might just forward this episode to your partner.

This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re throwing some serious confetti because… Sarah got a job!!! 🎉 After months of rejection emails, awkward interviews, and the emotional rollercoaster that is job hunting while momming — the streak is over.We’re talking all things reentry:💼 The application and interview process📩 What it felt like to finally get the offer🧠 Mentally prepping to go back to work🏡 The shift in family dynamics and home life🎢 The emotional high (and a few lows) of starting something newAnd of course, we close out with Kids Chaos, our weekly segment where we share the most hilarious, chaotic, or heartwarming moments from life with little ones.It’s a hopeful, honest, and celebratory episode for anyone who’s ever felt stuck in limbo.New job, same chaos — but hey, at least we’re getting paid again.

Two moms. Two layoffs. One big idea we hatched over voice notes, daycare drop-offs, and existential spirals.In our very first episode of Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we dive into what it felt like to get laid off while raising small humans — and how we turned our weekly vent sessions into a podcast that’s equal parts chaos and catharsis.We talk about:☕️ The awkward moment you find out you’ve been laid off🧠 The mental gymnastics of motherhood + unemployment📉 Why it feels like you’re the only one not “thriving”💬 The text message that started it allWhether you’re between jobs, in the thick of parenting, or just trying to keep your coffee hot for once — we see you.🎧 Rewind with us and listen to Episode 1: Work in Progress wherever you get your podcasts.🔗 [Insert link to episode]Because sometimes, the best ideas come from rock bottom... and a very messy kitchen.

This week, we welcome our very first guest — Paige Connell, the powerhouse mom of four behind the popular Instagram account @sheisapaigeturner. Paige is changing the narrative around the mental load moms carry and offers real-life tips for redistributing that load at home.We talk about what sparked her journey, how to start tough (but necessary) conversations with your partner, and why guilt shouldn't be a mom’s default setting. She also shares how she's raising more mindful, load-sharing kids — and what big change she wishes all parents could wake up to tomorrow.You’ll laugh, you’ll feel seen, and you might just forward this episode to your partner.

This week on Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition, we’re talking about the real mess that is… applying for unemployment. From glitchy websites to confusing requirements, Sarah and Jessie break down the chaos of navigating benefits — all while parenting, job hunting, and dodging existential spirals.But first, a check-in (including Jessie’s 8-hour DMV saga) and our recurring segment Parenting in Public: Hot Takes, where we go off about the absurd design of modern playgrounds (seriously, why are there so many 25-foot drops?!).Then we dive into what it’s really like to file for unemployment — the phone calls, the weird rules, and the maddening bureaucracy. Every state is different, none of it is easy, and sometimes it feels like you need a PhD just to fill out the form.

In this deeply personal episode, we're diving into what it’s really like to job hunt while pregnant — a journey full of tough decisions, awkward timing, and a whole lot of emotions. Sarah shares her experience navigating interviews and rejections while expecting, and Jessie opens up about being 35 weeks pregnant and still in the thick of the job search.We talk about when (or if) to share your pregnancy during the process, how to stay motivated through the nausea and fatigue, and the emotional weight of it all. Plus, we close things out with a dose of laughter in our recurring segment, Kids Chaos.Also: big news! We upgraded our audio and bought new mics 🎙️— so we sound SO much better this week. Tune in and let us know what you think!Because if you're going to spiral, you might as well laugh about it, too.

In this episode, we’re talking all things interviews — the prep, the pressure, the post-interview spiral, and everything in between. As two moms navigating unemployment, we share how we approach interviews after layoffs, the emotional highs and lows of the process, and how we’re staying grounded (sort of) through it all.Plus, we’re debuting our new segment, Parenting in Public, where we unpack the everyday challenges parents face — like why checkout lanes have become candy-coated battle zones.Whether you’re in the job hunt or just need a dose of real talk and humor, this one’s for you.

In this episode of Work in Progress: Moms Edition, we’re diving into what happened after the layoff. From the initial pause and attempts at self-care (hello yoga, birthday parties, and organizing every cabinet in sight) to the inevitable plunge into the job hunt, we share how we each approached our unexpected break—and what it felt like to start all over again. We talk resumes, rejection, and the weird world of LinkedIn Premium, all while juggling life and kiddos. Plus, this week’s Kid’s Chaos features our crazy kids! Join us as we keep it real about the messiness of transitions—and the humor that gets us through.

In this episode, we’re setting the stage and sharing what led up to the layoffs that changed everything. Jessie opens up about burnout, shifting company culture, and the eerie signs leading up to the day. Sarah reflects on returning from maternity leave, vacation bliss, and the shocking calendar invite that sealed her fate. We walk through the chaos, the emotion, and even the strange sense of relief that came after. Plus, this week’s Kid’s Chaos features a threenager’s obsession with tampons and a sweet toddler love story.

Meet Sarah and Jessie—former work besties turned real-life friends, moms, and now... podcasters. After bonding over careers, life milestones, and motherhood, both were laid off and thrust into a job market that (let’s be real) f*cking sucks. In Work in Progress: Moms Edition, they’re navigating job hunting, identity shifts, and parenting chaos—together. This trailer gives you a taste of what’s to come: real talk, helpful tips, and lots of laughs for moms stuck in the in-between.

Welcome to Work in Progress: Mom’s Edition! In our very first episode, we dive into the identity shift that came with an unexpected layoff—and the loss of control that followed. We introduce ourselves (hi, we’re Sarah and Jessie!), talk about what it felt like to suddenly lose the title of “working mom,” and reflect on the pressure moms face to do it all. From career-driven professionals to full-time toddler wranglers, we're figuring it out in real time. Plus, we kick off our recurring segment Kid’s Chaos, where we share the wild, sweet, and hilarious moments from the week.