How to Ask for Flexibility at Work - And Actually Get It - with Dr. Ellen Ford

EPISODE · Nov 12, 2025 · 48 MIN

How to Ask for Flexibility at Work - And Actually Get It - with Dr. Ellen Ford

from Working Mumma · host Carina O’Brien

You’ve proven you can do your job — and do it well — while working flexibly. But now that your employer wants more office time, how do you ask for what you need without feeling guilty or being seen as “less committed”? In this episode Carina O’Brien speaks with Dr. Ellen Ford, leadership expert and author of #WorkSchoolHours, about the art of negotiating flexibility at work. Together, they explore how working mums can confidently start the conversation, use data and outcomes to back up their case, and find a win-win that works for both you and your employer. You’ll learn: How to have a confident, fact-based conversation with your boss about working from home or hybrid work The key phrases and language to use when asking for flexibility (without guilt or defensiveness) How to show your productivity and value while working flexibly Why hybrid work supports better wellbeing, mental load, and family balance How to reframe flexibility as a business advantage, not a personal favour If you’re a working mum who wants to keep your flexibility this episode gives you the tools, confidence, and mindset to do it. Listen to Dr. Ellen Ford's previous episode on the Working Mumma podcast ep 116 - Removing Barriers to Help Working Mums Thrive   Episode Resources & Links Dr. Ellen Ford’s book: #WorkSchoolHours: A Revolution for Parents, Workplaces & the World #WorkSchoolHours eBook - 100% discount with code "workingmumma100" #WorkSchoolHours Online Courses 50% off with code "workingmumma50" check out Parents course or People manager course click here Dr. Ellen Ford’s Website ellenjoanford.com   Connect with Carina on LinkedIn  Let's connect on Instagram @workingmummacommunity Get your free 'How to share the mental load' checklist workingmumma.com.au/mental-load/  

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How to Ask for Flexibility at Work - And Actually Get It - with Dr. Ellen Ford

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Managing Next Generation Energy Systems Cambridge University Background Stakeholders working with energy systems have to make complex decisions formulated from risk-based assessments about the future. The move towards more renewables in our energy systems complicates matters even further, requiring the development of an integrated power grid and continuous and steady transformation of the UK power system. Network flows must be managed reliably under uncertain demands, uncertain supply, emerging network technologies and possible failures and, further, prices in related markets can be highly volatile. Mathematicians working with engineers and economists, can make significant contributions to address such issues, by helping to develop fit-for-purpose models for next generation energy systems. These interdisciplinary approaches are looking to address a range of associated problems, including modelling, prediction, simulation, control, market and mechanism design and optimisation. This knowledge exchange workshop was part of the four months Res Al Jazeera English Al Jazeera Network #AlJazeeraEnglish, we focus on people and events that affect people's lives. We bring topics to light that often go under-reported, listening to all sides of the story and giving a 'voice to the voiceless.'Reaching more than 282 million households in over 140 countries across the globe, our viewers trust #AlJazeeraEnglish to keep them informed, inspired, and entertained.Our impartial, fact-based reporting wins worldwide praise and respect. It is our unique brand of #journalism that the world has come to rely on.We are reshaping global media and constantly working to strengthen our reputation as one of the world's most respected #news and #CurrentAffairs channels. The (R)EV Diaries - EVs in Rural America Electric Cars - Electric Vehicles Ben Jones Electric Vehicles are everywhere. All major car manufacturers, from the highest-end performance brands to the lowest-end utilitarian family wagons, are working to produce an EV option for the marketplace. Battery capacity breakthroughs and concept cars shrouded in secrecy dominate the news. Here in America, public charging infrastructure is popping up… in big cities where consumers are realizing they can electrify their commute and save 70% on fuel costs. But what about small-town America? Ben Jones, an electrical engineer for an distribution cooperative in southeastern Kentucky believes so. He’s been exposed to EVs and charging infrastructure projects for his utility. Ben believes that EVs need to be in every town and the right combination of battery range and charging options make electric cars very attractive to rural inhabitants. But that was not always the case. The EV Diaries chronicle Ben’s conversion from skeptic to being a self-appointed EV ambassador. He talks about h CISO Perspectives (public) N2K Networks This season on CISO Perspectives, host Kim Jones explores some of the challenges of leading through uncertainty. We explore the complexity of the changing nature of regulation and working with the federal government, the evolution of privacy and fraud, and how emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing are changing cyber. When you don’t know what questions to ask, you’re afraid to ask, or don’t know who to ask, CISO Perspectives provides the foundation for learning in this brave new world.
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