The Mental Offload Podcast

You already have the right degrees. A good job title. A salary that took years of relentless effort to earn (even if it's a fraction of what you're worth).  By any measure, you are someone who is successful. And yet, somewhere between the school run and the performance review and the meal you planned on making from scratch, there's a nagging voice that you're still…failing. Lots of people will offer you "mom hacks" so you can do better. I think that's just a band-aid to cover the real issue.  We spent decades becoming experts at something we were never fully conscious of: reading a room and then acing it. We didn't just study hard. We studied what was expected.  And we delivered.  The right extracurriculars.  The right opportunities.  The right responses in the right meetings.  We became fluent in how to measure up to other people's definitions of success. And then, kids enter the picture. Suddenly, the existing expectations didn't go anywhere — but a brand new set landed on top of them. An unwritten job description nobody handed you, with metrics nobody explained, and performance reviews happening constantly: at school pickup, at the pediatrician, in your own head at 11pm. It can feel like a recipe for failing at everything. The question worth sitting with (and the one this week's episode is built around) is this:  How many of the expectations you're currently meeting did you consciously choose? And how many did you simply inherit and absorb? In this episode of The Mental Offload Podcast, we're getting into all of it. What You'll Learn: Why so much of what high-achieving women call "drive" is actually sophisticated compliance — and what changes when you finally see the difference The sociological concept that names exactly what happened to your bandwidth when you became a mother (and why it was never your fault) A practical three-question framework for auditing which expectations deserve your time and which ones you were never obligated to meet in the first place The crucial distinction between guilt and regret — and why learning to tell them apart might be the most liberating thing you do this year For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

If you're balancing a big job and small kids, your time likely falls into three categories: Work. Family. Keeping it all running. Work deadlines. School logistics. Laundry. Groceries. Emails. Exercise. Trying to sleep enough. Maybe squeezing in something that technically counts as self-care. Your days are often overstretched.  But they're productive. Responsible. When was the last time you did something purely because it was…fun? Not because it helped your kids or family. Not because it improved your career. Not because it was 'good for you.' Just because you enjoyed it? Now, if you're balking at the question, you get exactly why the notion of taking on a hobby seems so radical. It's not because you don't have interests.  It's because somewhere along the way, many of us absorbed the notion that our time should always be in service of something or someone else.  If we have an extra hour, we feel pressure to use it "well."  Exercise.  Healthy meals.  That class that could help at work. Organizing that embarrassing closet. A hobby might sound… indulgent. In this week's episode of *The Mental Offload Podcast*, I make the case that hobbies are not indulgent at all.  In fact, they might be so strategic that they're worth bumping some other things from your schedule. Because here's the reality: Most of your day drains energy. A hobby is one of the few things that can give  energy back. And that matters more than we tend to admit. What You'll Learn: Hobbies and 'self-care' are not identical Why we feel like we "can't afford" to have hobbies (and why you can't afford not to have one) The energy ROI on hobbies A simple assignment to help you reintroduce fun into your week If "me time" currently feels like a guilt-ridden addition to your overflowing to-do list (or just a long-lost memory from your pre-kids days) this episode is a must-listen. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

When you hear the word "networking," do you feel yourself cringe a bit? Maybe you feel awkward networking. Or maybe you tell yourself "I don't have time for networking", although deep down you know you're avoiding it.  Most of the working moms I talk to don't actually hate networking. They hate what they think networking requires of them. Pushy. Fake. Transactional.  Needing to pretend how confident and awesome you are (even when you're feeling stuck at work). Here's what I want you to know: that version of networking?  It does not work anyway.  And more importantly, there is a better, more authentic way to network. In this week's episode, I'm sharing a completely different framework for building career relationships -- one that works for introverts, works for busy women with zero spare hours, and doesn't require you to cold-DM strangers or show up to awkward events clutching a stack of business cards. I'll be honest with you: I've watched brilliant, accomplished women stall their own careers because they were waiting until they "had something to offer" before reaching out. Or waiting until they had a clear plan. Or waiting until things calmed down. This episode is for anyone who has ever been in that waiting room. What You'll Learn: Why transactional networking backfires  The two biggest networking mistakes I see ambitious women make (and how to recognize if you're making them) A simple three-pillar framework for building real, career-boosting relationships without the ick factor A practical way to get started, even when you have zero time for networking This one is worth carving out 20 minutes for. I promise you will think about networking differently by the time it's done. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

You're doing the job. Delivering results.  And yet, when it comes time to ask for more, there's a lump in your stomach. Whether it's salary, flexibility, or even your day-to-day workload, the conversation suddenly feels…tricky. You don't want to come across as difficult. You don't want to alienate an ally. You don't want to push "too far." So you soften your ask. You apologize for even asking.  Or you don't ask at all. This is one of the most important (and least talked about) dynamics I see with women, even in senior corporate roles. And let's keep it real, it's not only in the boardroom. We bring the same fears to negotiating with our partners at home. Because negotiation isn't just something that happens once a year in a performance review. It's happening every day. In how your workload expands. In what meetings you're expected to attend. In how available you're assumed to be. In how much of the mental load you agree to carry. And the frustrating reality? Many of the typical negotiation tactics do not work the same way for women. (Ever had a male partner or colleague advise you to "just march in there and tell 'em 'no way'?!?!...Um yeah, do not take that advice, please.) In this week's episode, I'm sharing a conversation I had with Gerta Malaj and Alex Choi on the Soft Power podcast, all about the traps of negotiating while female—and how to navigate these moments with a clear strategy and strong confidence. We talk about how to advocate for what you want—whether that's higher compensation, more flexibility, or simply a more sustainable way of working—without feeling like you're putting your reputation on the line. And we get into the small, everyday boundaries that matter just as much as the big ones. Because, at its heart, negotiation is simply the ability to communicate your desires in a way that reflects your value and respects your relationship. And lands with the person across from you. If you've ever walked away from a conversation thinking "I should have said something," this episode is for you. What You'll Learn: Why saying no is a leadership skill—and how to use it without damaging relationships How working across cultures impacts negotiating skill A simple shift that helps you position your requests and boundaries as business value How typical negotiation tactics often backfire on women (and what to do instead) What to do in the moments when you feel pressured to say yes For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

Life admin. It's one thing no one can escape from. Even in the busiest seasons of work and life, you can be sure that someone, somewhere, has another form they need you to fill out. I stopped counting one day last week after twelve emails came through. All from different sources: School. Sports teams. Doctors. Taxes.  I even got a nudge about a yoga class I signed up for in an attempt to offset some of my mental load. Cue Alanis Morrisette: isn't it ironic?! One part of the unpaid labor in most households: life admin. As it piles up, it doesn't just clutter your calendar. It clutters your mind, too. Some people avoid it, until they're drowning. Others end up in a permanent game of whack-a-mole, trying valiantly to stamp it out (only to feel defeated by the next incoming email). You may not be able to anticipate every incoming request. But you can design smart systems that help keep you afloat. This week on The Mental Offload, I lay out 3 ways to proactively stay on top of life admin — without dedicating your whole Sunday to a spreadsheet. We'll talk about options to keep you on top of things, and also free up your mental space. Whether you're the default organizer in your home or simply tired of feeling behind, this episode will show you how to reclaim control. What You'll Learn: Why life admin creates so much additional stress, especially for 'planners' 3 systems for dealing with life admin (there's one for your style) A decision filter to help you know when to delegate For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

If you recently had your 2025 annual review, you're probably in one of three places: You're relieved. You're frustrated. Or you're thinking, "what do I have to do to get the recognition I deserve?!" Maybe you worked your butt off…only to be met with a "meets expectations" rating. Maybe you were told you're "an asset to the team" and "a real team player" — but the raise made you feel like a bit player. Or you walked out with good news, but it came at the cost of deep anxiety and overwork. What I've seen over and over as a coach is that annual reviews don't reward effort.  They reward memorable impact. And in most corporate environments, the bar gets raised every year. Reliability becomes baseline. Over-functioning becomes the expectation. Good performance is simply table stakes. If you want a strong year end review this year, you cannot simply work hard and hope for the best. (Well, you can do that. But it won't guarantee you the strongest results.) In this week's podcast episode, I'm breaking down how savvy women reverse engineer a fantastic annual review. Starting in Q1, as goal setting is underway. This is not about working longer, harder hours. It's not about turning yourself into a self-promoter. It's about making a few key decisions now that will shape your year.  So that you're not left scrambling and sweating at year-end as you try to cobble together a self-assessment that lands you the ratings and recognition you deserve. Your 2026 review is already being written. The question is whether you're shaping it. What You'll Learn: Why "work hard and you'll be rewarded" is a fairy tale What's missing if you're an under-rated hard worker Strategic steps to take as you commit to 2026 goals If you're in goal-setting mode right now, this is the episode to listen to if you don't want to be overworked and overlooked in 2026. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.  

I'll be honest, I've never found much success with New Year's Resolutions. And I know I'm not alone - most resolutions get abandoned by this point in January.  So, what can you do if you love a good goal, but the idea of resolutions feels…tired. There are seasons when ambitious, detailed goal planning feels energizing. And there are seasons when it feels completely disconnected from reality. When your energy is limited—by health, parenting demands, work pressure, or just life—you don't need a longer list. You need clarity. You need direction. And you need simplicity. That's where a Word of the Year comes in. In this episode, I share how one word can shape your approach to work, leadership, and family life – even if you've got real constraints, real unknowns, and limited time. This episode isn't about "manifesting your goals" or creating the perfect plan. It's about defining a simple north star that keeps you aligned with your values. Especially when you're tempted to push past your limits. If you're balancing a big job and small kids, you don't need more pressure or a more detailed plan in order to reach your goals. You need something simpler. And the surprising part? A simple word can help you on track to achieve big goals. What You'll Learn: Why traditional goal-setting often fails in full, complex seasons of life How to choose a Word of the Year that aligns with your values 4 reflective questions that help your word emerge naturally Using your word as a practical decision-making compass throughout the year For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

Look just about anywhere these days, and it's hard to escape the tradwife-lite look. You know, the perfectly curated content that seems designed to sell us on the lie that women should be managing the home and child-rearing without any help.    Or that, if we do get some kind of support – paid or unpaid – we're lucky.    It's a narrative that's, frankly, disturbing.    And yet, it can make even most badass women believe that we're somehow shameful to need help at home.    Or that we should be grateful to get any.    No and no.   There's that old adage that "behind every successful man, stands a great woman." But behind every successful woman stands…what exactly?   In most cases, there's a team. And while more women are open about this than they were in the past, women are still absorbing messages that the "ideal" is one that leaves them doing it all.   Time to turn down that noise.   What You'll Learn: the trouble with the nuclear family ideal Math vs. drama around the mental load Transferring team-building skills at work to team-building at home   For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

Cinderella syndrome is the ultimate corporate fairy tale. The belief that if you do your work perfectly, take on more responsibilities without complaint... ...one day, Prince Charming (aka a powerful leader in your company) will discover your talent and rescue you. With the glass slipper of a promotion in hand. Women have been fed a version of this corporate fairy tale since childhood. If you want to get ahead, you're told you should: ✳️ deliver exactly what's asked of you ✳️ keep your head down (and smile) ✳️ be lucky enough that someone notices and chooses you This mindset has created an epidemic of strong, capable, ambitious female leaders… ...who are chronically overworked, burned out, and strung along with perpetually out-of-reach promises of promotion. This week, I sit down with Dr. Shaheena Janjuha-Jivraj, associate professor in entrepreneurial leadership and diversity at HEC Paris in Doha to discuss these dynamics and more. One of the first to write about Cinderella Syndrome, she shares her expertise in gender dynamics, leadership, and how to escape the fate of a modern Cinderella at work. What You'll Learn: How the Cinderella story keeps us waiting on "Prince Charming" in the workplace The double bind for female leaders, and how we're encouraged to play "nice" How leaders can break out of Cinderella syndrome and claim their power I can't wait for you to hear this powerful episode. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

If you've ever walked into a performance review expecting a gold star, and walked out feeling rattled, or even a little angry, you're not alone. In fact, you'd be in good company. Many highly competent women have had a review in their career that left them questioning their abilities, their reputation, or their future at the company.  Sometimes, it's a specific piece of feedback that stings. But often, it's something that cuts deeper. A sense that you're unrecognized, unseen, or unjustly targeted.  And, it can leave you panicking as you wonder: how can I defend myself, without making it worse? You want to stand up for yourself, but not seem defensive. You want to correct the record, without escalating the conflict. You want to protect your career, but it's hard to trust your boss. That tension is exactly why I recorded this week's episode. I walk you through the immediate steps to take when you're hit with a negative review. And, more importantly, how to respond in a way that keeps your reputation intact and your leadership presence strong.  This is the guide I wish every woman had before walking into a review that goes sideways. Because the most common advice on performance reviews is extremist: Either you're encouraged to swallow your concerns and smile meekly as you promise to do better next time…  …Or people will tell you must draft a point-by-point rebuttal, so that "their side" doesn't stain your permanent record. Neither approach works, when your goal is to protect your career and reputation. In this episode of The Mental Offload Podcast, I walk you through a more strategic response to a bad annual review. One that lets you advocate for yourself, without getting labelled combative or insubordinate. One that helps you call out bias, without looking like "the enemy". One that helps you rebuild your footing quickly, even if the review wasn't fair. In this episode, you'll learn how to move through the initial panic of a bad review, and how to respond in a way that positions you as an even stronger leader. What You'll Learn: • The first thing you must do after hearing a negative review, especially if it caught you off guard • Why you need to pay attention to facts and perceptions • Impactful scripts for correcting the record, without sounding argumentative • What to do when the critique feels biased, vague, or rooted in the motherhood penalty If you've ever been knocked off balance by a performance review, this episode will help you get back up stronger. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.  

Tell me if you've seen this play out before: You get handed a seemingly impossible goal, and you want to prove you're up to the task. But as soon as you start making the tough calls…you realize you're on your own. No support. No boss backing you up. No signal from anyone above that your decisions are good. It's a situation that can leave you feeling exposed. And alone. Soon, you're choosing your words more carefully. You're managing reactions instead of driving outcomes.  And you're questioning whether you misread the room, misread the politics, or overstepped your own authority. Sometimes, the problem isn't confidence, competence, or clarity. It's air cover. Air cover is the support you get from the people above you in your chain of command.  The public and private reinforcement that allows you to lead, take risks, and make decisions. Without bracing for fallout you'll have to handle alone. When you have air cover, you move differently. When you don't, you know it (often, too late in the game). In this week's episode of the podcast, I break down what air cover actually is, how to recognize whether you have it, and why it's so critical to your ability to lead.  If you've ever wondered, "Is it too risky for me to make this decision?", this episode will give you the language and the lens to answer that. What You'll Learn: What air cover looks like in the real world (and what its absence looks like, too) How to diagnose whether you've got air cover or not The strategic moves to make when you don't have the air cover you need Practical steps to provide air cover for your team I hope this episode gives you clarity about how to get the air cover you need. And how to stop carrying more risk than you should. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

It used to be the case that, if you were unhappy in your job, friends would tell you, "maybe it's time to look for a new job." But these days, people will tell you "hang onto whatever you've got." Because a lot of people are getting burned in the current job market.  The job market in 2025 looks dramatically different from what it did 2 years (or even 12 months) ago. So, if you're feeling stuck in your job – or going through a layoff – it might feel like you should be grateful for any job you can get.  Even if you love your job, you might be anxious about looming layoffs, hiring freezes, or rumors of a punishing return-to-office mandate. This week on the podcast, I'm taking some of the uncertainty out of the current job market. I break down why so many talented women are spinning their wheels in this market. And I share the exact moves my clients are using to land better, more flexible roles right now. This episode is for you if you're ready to stop waiting for the market to "get better," and start landing your next, best role. What You'll Learn: 5 key trends shaping the 2025 job market The traditional job search strategy that is bombing in the age of AI The networking mistake that you think is getting you referrals, but is leading nowhere A key technique for finding the companies that line up with your values and work-life balance needs …and a whole lot more You'll walk away with clarity, focus, and a fresh sense of what's actually possible for you—no matter what the headlines say. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

If you manage enough people in your career, I guarantee that at some point, you'll have an underperformer on your team.   Sometimes underperformance is glaring. But most of the time, it's smaller stuff: a missed deadline here and there, work full of typos, or a subtle bad attitude.    Working with someone like this can be positively maddening.    You start out patient. You give feedback. You remind, nudge, maybe even redo the work yourself, just to protect your own reputation.    But when you don't see improvement, you're the one staying late to fix other people's mistakes, carrying twice the load, and wondering how you ended up here.   This is one of the most frustrating realities of leadership — especially if you strive for excellence in your work. Managing an underperformer can quietly eat away at your time and your energy for everything else — including your family.    So you slowly drown in work…and resentment.   And yet, many leaders feel like there's no way out.   You don't want to be "the heavy." You don't want to seem mean or micromanaging. The underperformance doesn't rise to the level of a fireable offense. And because your own leaders only see the great end product, they may not take the problem seriously.   The reality is, almost no one gets taught how to manage an underperformer when they take on a leadership role. And yet, this is one of the most important skills to develop as a leader.   So, in this week's episode of The Mental Offload Podcast, we're diving into exactly how to handle underperformance in a way that's direct, compassionate, and effective — without guilt or sacrificing yourself in the process.   What You'll Learn: The two leadership traps women often fall into when faced with an underperformer (and how to avoid them) The best framework for diagnosing the root cause of underperformance, so you can address it  A simple step-by-step process for addressing performance issues with clarity and confidence How kind leaders handle difficult conversations (with some scripts you can steal)   If you've been quietly fixing someone else's mistakes or carrying more than your share, this episode will show you how to lead underperformers effectively, without sacrificing your time and energy in the process.   For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

You can run a high-stakes meeting without breaking a sweat. You manage a team like a boss. At work, you seem to know how to keep cool, even when fires are burning around you.   But when you walk through your own front door?   Why does it feel like chaos is reigning?   Small requests turn into battles. Small kids expertly push your buttons. Half the time you're not sure who's going to meltdown first: them or you.   You might veer between being "too harsh" and throwing up your hands in defeat—and neither approach feels right.   Worse, you wonder what's wrong that you can command a room of challenging adults…but can't seem to get a 4 year old to pick their legos off the floor.    On this week's episode of The Mental Offload Podcast, I sat down with parenting expert Lisa Smith, creator of The Peaceful Parent. Lisa has lived this exact struggle—leading thousands in her corporate career while feeling out of control with her own child. That frustration sent her on an 18-year journey into parenting science, brain development, and how to bring true leadership into the home.   Her insights will change how you think about parenting.   She'll leave you fundamentally rethinking what it means to be a successful parent in this era. So you can shift from checking off a list of "perfect parent" to-dos, to reclaiming your authority and connection with your kids.  Join us as we explore the intersection of parenting and work – and how to bring your leadership to both domains.   What You'll Learn: Why your kids aren't actually defiant (and how to get them responding, without losing it on them) 3 parenting styles, and the one that truly makes you a leader at home A simple shift that instantly makes kids more cooperative (without power struggles) How to show up as a calm, regulated leader at home - even after the toughest workdays   For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

Any way you slice it, Back-to-School is a sprint.    The extra load?! It's real. And working mothers typically feel it extra hard.    And yet, there can be an unhelpful temptation the moment that back-to-school week is over…to immediately jump back into "real life", without a moment to recover.   This will leave you spent. And contributes to burnout.   You might think "recovery" means preparing well for back-to-school. Reducing the load of back-to-school week itself. Promising yourself a vacation next spring as a reward.   And while none of these things are bad, they're not exactly what's required to recover.    You might think that taking any time at all to recover is precious time you don't have.   But failing to plan a proper recovery can leave you operating in "survival mode" for months. Who has time for that?!   Let's cut that whole process down to a week or two, shall we?   Whether your kids went back to school last week or last month, you'll learn what you can do now to get your mojo back. What You'll Learn: Why recovery time is vital to preventing burnout What Paralympic runners can teach us about the  recovery period The best short- and medium-term tactics for getting back in gear after the back-to-school "sprint" For more information, visit The Mental Offload.

You've been angling for a promotion. And it should be yours. You've got strong results. Good performance reviews. You get along with your colleagues. And yet…that promotion still hasn't come. What's going on here? Is it bias? A boss who's not advocating for you? Some hidden secret handshake you haven't mastered? Let me be clear: You're probably not imagining it. Vague, coded feedback like "be more strategic" or "your communication could be sharper" is all too common. And yes — bias exists. So do clueless (or overwhelmed) managers who don't champion you. But, here's the other part of the equation: there is a playbook for getting promoted.  What's often missing — and what this week's episode breaks down — is the strategy behind what actually gets women promoted into leadership. After coaching nearly 100 women into Director, VP, and SVP roles, I've identified 3 things you must have to get from ready on paper to "yes, promote her already!" In this episode, I'll walk you through the real stories of three incredible women who thought they were doing all the right things — and still hitting a ceiling.  And how understanding the promotion playbook took them from vague feedback and stalled momentum… to clarity, recognition, and the next level. If you've been stuck in the waiting game — or feel like you're constantly proving yourself with no clear payoff — this episode is your roadmap forward. What You'll Learn: Why just "doing great work" often isn't enough — and can actually trap you where you are Move over, mentors…women need sponsors The 3 forms of capital your promotion is riding on Leaving behind the "good student" mentality, so you can get ahead For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

You're presenting your big recommendation. You've prepped. You've practiced. You've got the room's attention. And then… Someone pushes back. Challenges your approach. Questions your recommendation. Suddenly, you find yourself on the back foot. Nervous. Stammering. Feeling defensive. But unable to defend yourself well. I see this same pattern with so many brilliant women.  They're strong on offense: those moments when they're in control of the narrative. They've mastered the prep, the pitch, the polish.  But when the unexpected happens? When someone else takes the (conversational) ball?  Their confidence collapses. They're trying to sell their ideas while feeling like a huge imposter. Have you been there?  If so, I'm 90% sure it's not because you lacked preparation. Or weren't good enough at your job. It's because you hadn't honed your "defensive game". Defense is not about the perfect comeback.  It's about keeping your footing when someone else intercepts the ball.  It's about facing a challenge with confidence.  And it's about knowing that just because someone else has the ball, it doesn't mean you've lost the game. This week on The Mental Offload podcast, I'm breaking down what "playing defense" looks like in leadership. And why it might be the missing skill that unleashes your confidence. Because even the greatest players don't always control the ball. But they do know how to get it back in their court. By the end of this episode, you'll see pushback in a whole new way. Not as a threat, but as part of the leadership game. What You'll Learn: The difference between offense and defense at work (and why both are critical for your confidence) How over-focusing on "preparation and delivery" leaves you surprisingly unprepared A simple mindset shift that helps you stay grounded when challenged Practical ways to develop your defensive game For more information, visit The Mental Offload.   

Even the most capable leaders fall into this trap: You evolve professionally—get promoted, shift roles, step into a new organization—but keep showing up the same way you always have. You end up trusted for execution. Valued for your solid judgment. Respected for your work ethic. But still, something's off. You're not quite getting the traction you expected. You're recommendations are getting overlooked. You're still getting treated as a "junior", even when your title is "senior". It's so frustrating—because you think you're doing all the right things, but they're getting the wrong reaction. That's exactly the problem. Your executive presence and personal brand can't stay frozen in time. As your career evolves, so must the way you show up. In this week's episode of The Mental Offload Podcast, we'll dive deeper into five key moments when it's critical to reassess your leadership brand and executive presence — and how high-performing women often miss these cues. Have you ever heard yourself saying things like: "I don't need to 'manage my brand'—my work speaks for itself" "Why am I getting so much pushback, when I know I'm the expert?" "I just returned from mat leave and everyone seems to be treating me differently" These are clues that it might be time to evolve. We're talking about the difference between being seen as competent and being seen as a leader.  And why smart, experienced women sometimes cling to a personal brand that's too junior. What You'll Learn:  Why your personal brand isn't about image—it's about how others describe you when you're not in the room The 5 professional moments where a "set it and forget it" brand will quietly hold you back How to shift your executive presence without losing your authenticity Specific language and behavior cues that support your brand at the next level This isn't only about performance. It's about power — and how you can use yours with confidence and impact. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

There's no sugar-coating it. Most jobs are relentless. Even greedy.  You're not imagining it. It's very real. (In fact, Claudia Goldin won the 2023 Nobel Prize in Economics for her work highlighting the impact of demanding jobs on the careers and earnings of women.)   One potential solution: going part-time. For many women, this is the holy grail of work arrangements.  A little less pressure at work, a little more space to breathe at home.  It sounds so reasonable.  And when you're running on fumes, it's hard not to dream about a schedule that doesn't have you overstretched to the point of burnout. But the reality of part-time isn't always what it's painted to be.  Going part-time doesn't always lead to less stress — and in some cases, it can make work-life balance even harder. This week on the podcast, I'm pulling back the curtain on what really happens when high-achieving women shift to part-time work. Not to scare you, but to prepare you — so you can make your next move with clear-eyed confidence, not wishful thinking. Over the years, I've coached dozens of brilliant women through this very decision. Some chose to go part-time with no regrets. Others looked at the reality and decided it wasn't going to be the quick fix they were hoping for.  What made both these groups happy about their choices? Not luck. Strategic decisions. If you've been contemplating (or fantasizing) about going part-time, you'll want to tune in for this. What You'll Learn: Why part-time roles often don't reduce your workload — and 2 other common pitfalls A decision-making framework to help you assess if part-time is really the right path for you What to say (and ask) at work and at home so your "part-time" life doesn't become "double time" under a different name A smart way to go "pretend part-time", without a single tough negotiation on hours For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

If you're a working mother with a demanding job, you've probably asked yourself:  Is this sustainable?  Am I doing enough?  How do successful moms make this all work? One journalist has some answers to share. This week, I'm joined by Joann Lublin, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Wall Street Journal contributor, and author of Power Moms: How Executive Mothers Navigate Work and Life. Joann has been studying working mothers for decades. She's seen firsthand how the expectations, demands, and even the guilt have evolved across generations. She's lived it, too. In fact, back in 1980, she wrote an op-ed for the Wall Street Journal about her experiences as a working mother. Her piece ruffled quite a few feathers – some hate mail even suggested she should never have had kids – and the blowback almost led her to quit her prestigious job. The times have changed, but even today, the core struggle remains: How do we build meaningful careers and be present for the people who matter most? What's striking about Joann's work is that she didn't just speak to one kind of mom. She interviewed high-achieving women across a range of industries, backgrounds, and family setups—along with their adult daughters—to understand what actually helps working mothers work best. And she's clear: The idea of "balance" is due for an upgrade. In this conversation, Joann shares hard-won insights and surprising findings from women who've made it to the top—and stayed grounded.  If you've ever wondered whether it's possible to build a life that honors your ambitions for your career and your family, listen in. What You'll Learn:  Why "balance" is the wrong goal (and what to aim for instead) 4 proven ways to ditch the mom guilt How today's ambitious mothers differ from their trailblazing predecessors This episode is packed with practical takeaways, while staying candid about the systems we're working within. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

As kids finish off the school year, I'm looking back in awe how much they've grown and accomplished this year.  And then, the proud reverie is interrupted. It's like a split screen where I see my own stalled progress. And feel a giant ugh in the pit of my stomach. I see the goals I meant to prioritize this year — consistent exercise, healthier meals, getting to bed by 10pm. On some of them, I'm doing great. On others…it's not pretty. When life is going at full speed — school breaks, work travel, a sudden realization that no one is available for pickup on Thursday — it's easy to feel like you're falling short.  But as you try to offer yourself grace, you hear a voice of doubt: "Am I letting myself off the hook here?" In this week's episode of the podcast, I sit down with midlife health coach Elizabeth Sherman to talk about this exact dilemma: how high-achieving women judge themselves when real life gets in the way of their goals. We get into the cultural conditioning that rewards a "no excuses" mindset—and how that plays out when you're just trying to get through the week without collapsing by Thursday night.  We unpack why it's so hard to discern when you're giving yourself a pass...and when you actually need to pause. If you've ever struggled to tell the difference between reasons and excuses, this is one you'll want to hear. What You'll Learn:  A smarter way to think about "no excuses" culture—and how it may be hurting your energy and your goals A practical lens to tell the difference between a reason and an excuse (no shame, just clarity) What resistance can teach you when your motivation dips How to set high standards without running yourself into the ground This one is honest, compassionate, and a little bit of a reframe. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

From the outside, it probably looks like you're doing it all—and doing it well. You've checked all the boxes: crushing it at work, holding things down at home, maybe even taking on a volunteer project or two.  But on the inside? You might be asking yourself: How much longer can I keep going like this? In this week's episode of The Mental Offload, I sit down with Lori Oberbroeckling—senior corporate leader, mom of four, author of Secrets of Supermom, and someone who's lived through the very burnout she now helps other women recover from. We're talking about that dangerous space high-achieving women fall into when busy becomes a badge of honor, and even the things we once loved start to feel like obligations.  You catch yourself saying, "It's just this week, next week will be better"...for months on end. Meanwhile, your energy is slowly draining away.  What You'll Learn:  The often-overlooked early warning signs of burnout for working mothers Why being overloaded doesn't mean you're a failure How to set boundaries without blowing up your life What parts of the 'supermom' label to embrace Burnout isn't inevitable. Listen in for Lori's inspiring take on the small changes that can steer you out of burnout. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Go getters always manage to get it done. But for some of you, it's often "just in the nick of time".  Are you jumping from one last-minute push to the next late-night sprint? Have you convinced yourself that this is simply the cost of being successful, high-achieving, and in demand? I know, I know. You want to focus on the result: you're meeting deadlines. Getting s*** done. I used to tell myself I "worked best under deadline".  But, then I realized my processes were keeping the stakes high and the stress higher. "Cutting it close" isn't a productivity strategy. It's a disordered way of working. And over time, it chips away at your capacity, your confidence, and possibly even your credibility — even if you're still technically delivering. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on a mindset that many high-performing working mothers assume is unavoidable: Working with zero margin.  It looks like constant pressure. And maybe taking pride in being able to handle "whatever comes your way" — while always operating at the brink of burnout. Here's the hard truth: Constant urgency may make you feel productive, but it's actually a slow drain on your leadership and your talent. We're not talking about dropping the ball.  We're talking about getting it down the field more effectively. What You'll Learn: Why "just-in-time" delivery erodes trust — even when the work is technically on time The hidden tax of trying to "do it all" without the right support Why your adrenaline-based productivity is blocking your creativity and long-term strategy How to start creating margin and lead time — and why it's the key to peace, polish, and presence For more information, visit The Mental Offload.   

If you've ever found yourself trying to stay calm in a heated meeting—or keeping your cool with a tantruming child—you know: try harder is not the answer. In this week's episode of The Mental Offload, I continue my powerful conversation with nervous system expert Jane Pilger. We dive deep into how you can regulate your nervous system—and help others regulate, too—even in the midst of difficult conversations. We explore the real reason emotional spirals happen, even when we think we're "fine." More importantly, you'll learn how to work with your body's built-in systems to stay grounded, even when the world around you is anything but. This is about leadership from the inside out—whether you're managing a colleague gone rogue, an adult toddler, or an actual toddler. What You'll Learn:  The critical difference between feeling safe and actually being safe (and why it matters for every conversation you have) Why "tough love" doesn't work (and what does) How to use co-regulation intentionally—at work, with your kids, and with your partner What to do when the person you're talking to isn't capable of rational discussion in the moment If you want to lead with more presence, power, and peace…this episode is a must-listen. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.   

As working mothers and high achievers, we are trained to keep pushing through—no matter the cost. On top of that, you've probably been told at some point that the best way to be taken seriously as a woman in leadership is not to show any emotion.  That can lead you to keep pushing down your emotions. But those pesky emotions often refuse to be silenced. That's why I recently sat down with nervous system expert Jane Pilger to demystify a topic you've heard about but may not fully get: nervous system regulation. No doubt, you've heard about the benefits of nervous system regulation for your children.  But, did you know that it's a skill that the most trusted leaders employ pretty much daily? We break down why one key to effective leadership—at work and at home—starts with staying in control of your own internal state. When you understand how your nervous system works, you stop fighting yourself and start moving forward with more ease and confidence. This isn't about "fixing" or eliminating your emotions. It's about working with your body and mind, not against it. What You'll Learn:  What is your nervous system "home base", and how do you know if you're in it? Why willpower and pushing through don't help Practical tools you can use in stressful moments Why expanding your "emotional capacity" is a core leadership skill   This conversation is packed with simple, practical strategies you can use immediately. Tune in now and learn how to lead from a place of calm strength—no ice baths or meditation cushion needed. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

You start the week with a color-coded calendar, clear priorities, and the best intentions. But by Wednesday, things are already going off the rails. You're already working through lunch, but you're about 4 tasks behind where you intended to be. Loads of high-achievers get sucked in by the same culprit: Magical schedule thinking. Magical schedule thinking is what happens when you underestimate how much time things will take, and end up overcommitting yourself in the process.  You convince yourself you can knock out a killer presentation in exactly one hour. Which would work in a world where there was no inbox pinging you, or colleagues interrupting you. Your motivation isn't the problem. Your math is. Instead of working harder to try to grind it all out, you need to understand how to unwind the magical thinking.  So that your schedule works for you, instead of against you. When you learn to ditch the magical schedule thinking, you'll finish the day feeling accomplished, not defeated and overwhelmed. What You'll Learn:  The hidden reasons we overload our calendars (even when we know better) How to spot the telltale signs that you've slipped into magical thinking A simple, four-step approach to creating an intentional, doable schedule Replacing overwhelm with a powerful feeling of control over your time You can't create more hours in the day. But you can change how you show up for them. Listen to the full episode now. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.   

When's the last time you interviewed for a job? Maybe it's been a few years. Or even a few promotions ago.  If so, you need to know that the interview game evolves as your career evolves. At the mid-to-senior level, interviews are no longer about proving you're a go-getter who can do anything.  As you get more senior, interviews are about something different: Showing up as the leader who can drive results, influence outcomes, and represent your employer with authority. That shift requires a completely different approach. In this week's episode of the podcast, I'm breaking down what it really takes to nail your next job interview—from how to tell your story, to the questions you should be asking (and avoiding), to how to walk into that conversation truly knowing you're a catch. Because it's less about knowing the 'right' answers, and more about showing that you're a high-impact leader. If you're even thinking about a job change in the next 6–12 months, this episode is required listening. What You'll Learn:  How to prep for mid-career interviews (especially when it's been years since your last interview) The mindset shift that separates the loyal (junior) team player from the confident (senior) leader Crafting smart questions that position you like a strategic peer, not a hopeful applicant The four examples every woman should have ready to go (including how to structure them for maximum impact) Whether you're actively interviewing or just want to be ready when the right opportunity comes knocking, this episode will help you bring your A-game to your next job interview. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.   

Ever catch yourself spiraling with frustration after a tense meeting... and think, "Why didn't I stop myself sooner?" Or maybe you're trying to create an exercise habit, and find yourself skipping out most of the time. You're not alone.  And these "fails" don't actually mean you're failing. As women who are used to crushing big goals — especially those who've succeeded by pushing through and hustling hard — we can be our own worst critics when it comes to building new habits. You might think it helps. But here's the thing: changing habits comes in phases, and the early phases might look like "fails".  Unless you know what to look for. This week on the podcast, I'm walking through a powerful three-phase framework that explains exactly what's happening when you're trying to change thought patterns or habits—and why your progress may be non-linear, even when you're right on track. What You'll Learn:  Why noticing your thoughts after the fact is actually a sign of progress How to navigate the messy middle, when you can see the pattern happening in real time but can't seem to stop it Why "gathering the data" is necessary to successfully move through the phases of change For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Ever had a colleague who keeps cutting you out of the loop? They conveniently "forget" to invite you to key meetings. They drop you from email chains. Or withhold information that you need to do your best work.  Some of them do this so subtly, you may even start to doubt whether they do it on purpose. But regardless, it's beyond frustrating.  It's impacting your ability to perform.  And it's impacting how you feel about your job. Dealing with an underminer is tricky. Especially if you're a leader. Asking your boss to intervene risks seeming like you can't handle it.  And you can't simply go rip the underminer a new one (as much as you might fantasize about it). So what do you do? Some of the worst leadership advice I've heard is on this topic: "tell your colleague how their bad behaviour makes you feel." This advice is great for couples therapy. But it's awful advice for the workplace. But, fear not. This week, I'll break down exactly why this doesn't work with an underminer.  And how you can successfully navigate this workplace challenge in a way that gets results and wins respect. What You'll Learn:  Why the typical advice ends up backfiring…and undermining you Framing the discussion so that you get results (from the culprit) and backing (from the boss) The exact script to use to address a colleague's shady behavior A simple bonus question to make your conversation even more effective If you've ever had to deal with a colleague who plays the undermining game, you'll want these techniques in your toolkit. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

We're living through a historic backlash against women and minorities. You don't have to live in the US to feel it.  Global companies are rolling back DE&I initiatives.  Executives are promoting a "work harder and be in the office" ethos. And there's the subtle insinuation that working mothers should be grateful for any flexibility we're given at work. And any "help" we're given at home. As if our hard work and value aren't obvious. In 1975, Icelandic women found themselves in a similar moment. They walked off the job and out of their homes for a full day strike. What happened next reshaped an entire country's future for gender equality. Most working moms won't create change by simply walking off the job. But, inspired by the Icelandic example, we can take strategic steps to create change—at home, at work, and in our societies. As long as women are quietly picking up the slack, systems don't change. What would it look like if women refused to keep 'doing their part' to hold things together? This week on the podcast, I'm sharing what it means to "go on strike" as an act of leadership, and how large and small acts of resistance can become the spark for lasting change. What You'll Learn:  The power of "micro strikes" and saying 'no' What Iceland's women's strike teaches us about collective action and leadership The link between strikes and burnout prevention Leveraging the power of networks and communities to advance gender equity If you're ready to lead differently—and stop carrying a load that's not yours—this is an important episode. We can see gender equality in our lifetime. But only when we work (and strike) together. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

If you work in a hybrid environment, you know some things are easier: Less time spent commuting. Fewer interruptions. The ability to pop a load of laundry in.  But hybrid work also presents its own difficulties, like: How do I get the right visibility for my work? How can I show strong executive presence over Zoom? How can I build relationships with people who are 3 time zones away? Without face time, hallway chats, and those informal "meetings after the meeting," it's easy to get overlooked, even when you're delivering outstanding results. Standing out in the hybrid world requires different tactics. But what, exactly, do you need to do? In this week's episode of the podcast, we're tackling this head-on. You'll learn how to stand out in a hybrid environment without overextending yourself or sending a ba-jillion Slack messages.  This is about dialing your leadership in, in a way that works for the realities of hybrid work. What You'll Learn:  How to build visibility, presence, and your network - even when you're not in the same location Actionable strategies that help you stand out, without overextending yourself Why boundaries become more important in the hybrid space - and how they can improve your executive presence and personal brand If you've been wondering how to stay visible and sane in this new era of work, this episode is for you. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Cinderella syndrome is the ultimate corporate fairy tale. The belief that if you do your work perfectly, take on more responsibilities without complaint... ...one day, Prince Charming (aka a powerful leader in your company) will discover your talent and rescue you. With the glass slipper of a promotion in hand. Women have been fed a version of this corporate fairy tale since childhood. If you want to get ahead, you're told you should: ✳️ deliver exactly what's asked of you ✳️ keep your head down (and smile) ✳️ be lucky enough that someone notices and chooses you This mindset has created an epidemic of strong, capable, ambitious female leaders… ...who are chronically overworked, burned out, and strung along with perpetually out-of-reach promises of promotion. This week, I sit down with Dr. Shaheena Janjuha-Jivraj, associate professor in entrepreneurial leadership and diversity at HEC Paris in Doha to discuss these dynamics and more. One of the first to write about Cinderella Syndrome, she shares her expertise in gender dynamics, leadership, and how to escape the fate of a modern Cinderella at work. What You'll Learn:  How the Cinderella story keeps us waiting on "Prince Charming" in the workplace The double bind for female leaders, and how we're encouraged to play "nice" How leaders can break out of Cinderella syndrome and claim their power I can't wait for you to hear this powerful episode. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Have you ever looked at your life—your job, your routines, maybe even your entire identity—and thought, I want to hit the reset button? That feeling isn't a crisis. It's a calling. To reinvent yourself. But that word, reinvention, comes with some baggage.  We're taught that our careers (and lives!) should follow a linear path. Get the job, climb the ladder, get the kids into a top college, and retire happily ever after.  But the reality?  Growth isn't linear.  And reinvention isn't just possible—it's necessary at certain points in life. Whether your reinvention is sparked by a quiet glimmer ("I wonder if we could live abroad for a while?") or a burning urge ("I can't do this job anymore"), it's an opportunity.  To build your life more authentically. The challenge: our brains are wired to resist big change. So, on this week's episode of The Mental Offload Podcast, we'll break down what to do when you have the calling to reinvent yourself: what reinvention really means, why it feels so hard, and how to navigate it in a way that energizes instead of depletes you. What You'll Learn:  A pivot vs. a reinvention - which do you need? Why reinvention feels so hard and how to make it feel less daunting The key skills and mindset shifts that make reinvention possible at any stage of your career Practical steps to explore reinvention without burning everything down overnight If you're feeling the nudge (or the full-blown urge) to reinvent, this episode is for you.  

Have you ever been so good at what you do that you somehow ended up with all the work? At the office, everyone needs you to proofread the documents before they go to the client.  At home, everyone asks you where to find things. Or how to book a dentist appointment.  You're the safety net, the problem solver, the one who ensures things don't fall apart. And, while you feel good about how competent you are, you resent that the people around you aren't operating on the same level.  You don't want to be responsible for it all. And yet, if you step back, things might actually go wrong. If this sounds like you, you may have fallen into the overcompetence trap. In this week's episode, we're diving into the hidden cost of being too capable—and how overcompetence leads to burnout, resentment, and stalled career growth. What You'll Learn:  The four signs that you're stuck in the overcompetence trap Why high-achieving women are more likely than others to get stuck in the trap How overcompetence quietly sabotages your career and personal life Practical steps to reclaim your time and energy—without letting things fall apart If you're tired of feeling stretched too thin but don't see a way out, this episode is for you. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Working parents are in crisis right now. And at the root of it? Systems that penalize working parents, by pretending that we still live in societies where one parent (usually the mother) is on call at home. Childcare in the US is a prime example of this. It costs as much as a second mortgage. The waitlists are ridiculous. And that's assuming you don't live in one of the "childcare deserts" where licensed daycare is more than an hour away. For many parents, the stress of juggling work and care is reaching a breaking point. A new report from Care.com reveals just how bad it's gotten: Families spend an average of 40% of their household income on childcare 90% of parents say they've lost sleep over care challenges Nearly a third of parents have considered suicide or self-harm due to caregiving stress (!!!) Statistics like these reveal just how bad working parents are suffering right now.  If it feels like a war against working parents…well, you're not wrong. In this episode, we take a hard look at why the system feels rigged against working parents, and what we can learn from other countries that do it differently.  Because other countries have managed to find solutions that support—not punish—working parents.   What You'll Learn:  Why the U.S. used to have a national daycare system—and how it disappeared overnight How countries in Asia and Europe approach caregiving infrastructure, and how culture supports – or wages war on – working parents What you can do to push for better policies—and protect your career in the meantime. The way we structure care isn't inevitable. It's a choice.  And it's time for change. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.   

Most people think time, money, or energy is their most valuable asset. But what if the real key to success and ease is something else? There's something even more critical—and most of us are running dangerously low on it.  That resource is bandwidth. Bandwidth is the combination of your time and mental capacity. It's what allows you to make good decisions, focus, and show up fully.  Without bandwidth, life feels like a constant scramble. You find yourself, reacting instead of leading, and ending the day too drained to do anything but scroll on your phone.  For women balancing demanding jobs and families, we've come to accept bandwidth depletion as normal. We're expected to take on more, stretch ourselves thinner, and keep going no matter what.  But the cost is high. When your bandwidth is maxed out, you don't just lose efficiency. You lose your ability to think strategically, to be present with your family, and to step into the leadership roles you deserve. This isn't just personal. It's systemic.  When women are overstretched, we don't have the capacity to challenge the structures that keep us in this cycle. We don't push for promotions, negotiate better pay, or fight for policies that would ease the burden. Reclaiming bandwidth isn't just about making life easier—it's about power. What You'll Learn:  Why bandwidth—not time or money—is the real key to getting ahead How to recognize when your bandwidth is maxed out (and what to do about it) The strategies high-achievers use to create more bandwidth Why reclaiming bandwidth is a radical act for women in the workplace If you're tired of running on empty, this episode is for you. For more information, visit The Mental Offload.   

As the year starts, most people are thinking about new goals and activities to add to their calendars. I'm thinking about what to subtract. It sounds a little bit radical. But what if the real key to thriving isn't adding more stuff to your plate, but subtracting? In this week's episode of The Mental Offload Podcast, I discuss how subtraction creates more.  More time. More bandwidth. More relaxation. I'll also explore the cultural and workplace pressures keep us overcommitted, and make us hesitant to subtract. You'll leave this episode with practical strategies to decide what stays on your plate—and what you can let go of for good. What You'll Learn:  Why subtraction feels so hard, and how it leaves to overstuffed schedules (and lives) 4 strategies to decide what to subtract How to confidently manage pushback as you offload For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Does the thought of walking into a room full of strangers and "working the crowd" make you want to head for the exit?  I'm with you. Networking often feels like it's designed for extroverts: loud conversations, endless small talk, and nonstop people-ing.  If you're an introvert, the traditional advice can feel exhausting and even shame-inducing. You're told to just "get out there" and meet everyone. To pretend to be an extrovert for a few hours – and deal with the energy crash later.  Doesn't exactly make you want to network, does it?! Networking doesn't have to be this painful.   Early in my career, I worked for an introverted – yet inspirational – leader, who taught me you can network well as an introvert. You just need to tweak how you network.  In this week's episode of The Mental Offload Podcast, I'm sharing with you how introverts can network with confidence, authenticity, and energy. What You'll Learn:  Leveraging an introvert's unique networking strengths  Practical tips to prepare for networking events and set boundaries, so you don't crash halfway through Ways to reframe networking so it's less daunting Creative ways that introverts use modern technology to build connections Networking isn't about being the life of party (aka next teambuilding event). It's about playing to your strengths, so you  build connections that matter. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Have you ever been in the presence of someone with undeniable charisma?  They have this magnetic energy that makes people stop and follow their lead. It might seem like a gift they were born with.  But what if I told you charisma isn't magic? Charisma is a skill. And like any skill, it can be developed. In this week's episode of The Mental Offload Podcast, I'm sharing research-backed insights on how charisma works—and how you can cultivate it for yourself.  Whether you want to lead with more impact, build stronger relationships, or simply feel more confident, understanding this formula can give you a serious edge. I used to think charisma was reserved for the "naturals."  I believed my advantage was the ability to work harder and achieve bigger results. But I watched as others — often producing a lot less — get rewarded because they had it.  Learning what charisma is (and isn't) was transformational for me. The change wasn't just professional; it deeply changed the way I felt about myself, and how I showed up for my friends as well as my team. If you've ever wanted a bit more of that charismatic "magic dust" for yourself, this episode is for you. What You'll Learn:  The 3 components of charisma, demystified Why charisma is not about being an extrovert (introverts, this is for you!) Can you be charismatic and authentic at the same time? Practical exercises to develop more charisma The best part? You don't need to be the most outgoing person in the room. You just need to know the formula. For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Are you earning what you're capable of—and what you truly want to earn? For many women, the answer is no. We stay stuck in patterns of underearning for reasons that feel outside our control: "This is just what my job pays." "I need flexibility, so I can't ask for more." "I'd have to work so much harder to make more—and I can't." But what if there's more to it than that. Yes, there are structural barriers to women's pay equity.  And, many women have internalized some of the barriers in ways that compound their power over our future. Underearning is insidious. And it's time to tackle it. If you've ever felt like making more means compromising your values or your life, this episode will challenge that idea—and help you reimagine what's possible. What You'll Learn:  How social conditioning teaches women to limit their earning potential Why "know your worth" is terrible negotiating advice - and a better guideline The multi-million dollar question that will help jumpstart your next salary negotiation For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Let's face it: the idea of "work-life balance" is full of myths and half-truths.  You've probably heard that you just need the right job, better boundaries, or a reduced schedule to find harmony. But if you've tried these solutions and still feel stretched thinner than your worst hair tie, it's not a surprise. These changes alone won't magically create work-life balance. In my latest podcast episode, I'm debunking four myths about work-life balance that high-achieving women get told all the time—myths that can lead you to make career and life decisions you might regret. Here's the truth: balance isn't about eliminating all conflict between work and home, or squeezing everything into your schedule.  It's about alignment between the work you enjoy, the family you love, and your own needs as a whole human (who is more than a parent). Once you've kicked the myths to the curb, you can create a firm foundation for balance. This episode will challenge your assumptions, give you a fresh perspective, and show you how to find real balance—on your terms. Listen now and start redefining work-life balance to work for you. What You'll Learn: Why limiting yourself to remote work can be…limiting The real reason setting boundaries feels so hard (and so guilt-ridden) The perennial question: how many hours is the "right" amount to work? How your corporate culture changes the balance equation For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

When you have a lot on your plate, it's tempting to give up on goals. We wake up, look at our bulging to-do list, and think: my only goal is to survive the next week. Or month. Or year. But when survival becomes the goal, it can be a trap. And our values are the way out. The truth is, traditional goal-setting can dig you deeper into burnout. We pile on ambitious goals and plans, trying to do it all—be the perfect mom, the all-star employee, the devoted partner… And punishing ourselves when we fall short. What if, instead of chasing badges of approval, you could set goals that actually align with your values and the life you want to create? If you want to plan for 2025 in a way that feels purposeful, energizing, and true to you, this episode is for you. What You'll Learn:  How societal expectations creep into our goals - and how to protect against it The magical thinking that keeps women in survival mode 3 methods to identify value-led goals (one will work for you!) How to build YES and NO goals that support your time and boundaries For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Whether you're looking at the business press, or the motivation quotes on Pinterest, you'll often get a one-dimensional look at what it takes to be successful. "Go for GROWTH!"  It's so ingrained in our culture's approach to success, that you can feel like a failure if you're not constantly trying to achieve the Next Big Thing, personally or professionally. I was sitting in my office with a client, who was almost apologetic about her desire to ratchet down the pace as she adjusted to a new baby in the family. "I'm not sure this is a growth year for me," she admitted. "Is that terrible?" She was slightly terrified by the idea that if she dared to slow down the career treadmill, she'd never regain her speed. The idea that a career needs to be linear, with a steady pace, seems really tidy, but it's not necessary in order to be successful.  That's why, as you consider your ambitions for a new year, it's critical to consider this as well: Your pace.  Specifically, whether you want to aim for a Growth, Balance or Pivot year.  This episode will help you set your own pace on the route to success. What You'll Learn:  Why plotting your pace for the year is as important as plotting your goals for the year 3 ways to set your pace: growth, balance or pivot Why society treats some paces as "better", and how to get comfortable with your own pace The tradeoffs that come with each pace For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Imagine if you could sit down with your future self—the version of you who has achieved your wildest dreams, overcome your biggest challenges, and is living your best life. What would that conversation be like? How would it transform the decisions you make today?   Last month, we focused on the important relationships you have at home and at work. But there's one relationship we haven't talked about. And it's your most important relationship: Your relationship with your Future Self. This relationship drives major decisions about your career, your family, and how you show up in the arena. So, it makes sense to treat this relationship seriously. In this episode, we'll explore strategies to connecting to the person you're destined to become, and how doing so can transform how you lead, and how you live. What You'll Learn:  Why the relationship between your Past, Present and Future Self matters for success How your relationship with your future self can protect you from guilt and people-pleasing 4 Questions to ask yourself that will deepen your relationship with your future self For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Executive Presence. Most leaders know it's a powerful ingredient for success. It's that bit of leadership sorcery that allows some to command a room, influence key decisions, and inspire confidence. You might be able to get ahead without it, but I don't recommend trying! But can you actually develop executive presence? I've heard leaders describe it as, "you just know it when you see it."  That may be true. But it's spectacularly unhelpful. Drawing on the latest research on Executive Presence, we'll decode the formula for this important leadership skill. And discuss how you can leverage it to rise at work. What You'll Learn:  Decoding Executive Presence: the 3 elements that matter most Bias and executive presence – is it a catch-22, or can it be neutralized? Why "fake it til you make it" isn't the best strategy How to develop your personal flavor of executive presence with your own, impactful "spice blend" For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

The holidays are supposed to be magical.  But let's be honest – scrolling your picture-perfect instagram feed, you're feeling overwhelmed and under-prepared. For working moms, the holidays often feel like a marathon of endless to-dos, "should-dos," and societal expectations. What if you could actually come through the holiday season feeling relaxed, rather than burned out? What if you could create holidays that feel meaningful, instead of overwhelming? In this week's episode, we're tackling the mental load of holidays – and the stress it brings – head-on.  I'll share how re-designing the holidays in this way helped me let go of the perfectionism around the holidays (and let my husband wrap presents til 2am). The holiday season throws a lot our way. But this episode will show you how to emerge relaxed and in control. What You'll Learn:  The key question that will change the way you approach the holidays A simple framework to spend less time and energy on what you "should" do around the holidays How to manage your capacity so you don't overextend yourself making "holiday magic" For more information, visit The Mental Offload.   

You're in a meeting. Half listening, half emailing. Suddenly, you hear your name.   "What are your thoughts on the proposal?"   Cue panic.   If you've been caught multitasking, you know the sting. And if we're being honest, most of us do it.  At work, at home, everywhere in between.   Because it feels like the only way to keep up.   But here's the truth: multitasking doesn't work.   It rarely helps you keep up. In fact, it often contributes to feeling more behind.  In this week's podcast, we dive into why. Want to learn practical strategies to reclaim your focus and stay present for all of life (and work's) big moments?  Tune in to this episode. What You'll Learn: - The hidden costs of multitasking. (Hint: it's more than just feeling distracted.)   - Why smart, driven women are especially prone to fall into the trap. - 2 skills to make you a champion uni-tasker For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

You know the drill: You're in the car after a long day of meetings, mentally cycling through your to-do list and meal plan…but secretly wishing you could teleport to an island resort where you could finally relax. Sound familiar? You're not alone.  Nearly ⅔-rds of working parents say they're feeling burned out. Even the U.S. Surgeon General declaring that working parents are facing a breaking point. But here's the thing about burnout:  It doesn't appear out of nowhere one day. It sneaks in, masquerading as dedication, disguising itself as "just pushing through."  And far too often, we wait until we're completely depleted before we take it seriously. In this week's essential episode, I'm sharing my proven Burnout Prevention Protocol – a practical, customizable set of practices designed specifically for high-achievers who don't want to be running on empty.   Think of it like physical fitness - you know regular exercise now is key to maintaining your health long term. Your mental and emotional health need preventative maintenance, too. Ready to stop the burnout before it starts? Listen to the full episode now.  What You'll Learn:  Why stress needs to be "dealt with", not just pushed aside 4 evidence-based categories of burnout-busting activities that actually work How to create a doable, sustainable protocol that fits your real life, in as little as 2 minutes per day To learn more, visit The Mental Offload.   

I'll be honest, I had to unplug from the news this week. For many of us - not just in the US but around the world - the US election results were a blow to the causes we believe in.  But I had to turn off the tv when the analysts started to weigh in on "what happened." The sting of watching a powerful woman be dissected to see where she had "fallen short."  The inevitable pundits' roundtable asking: "do we think we're ready for a woman at the top?"  Maybe you felt it, too. Because it's not just about one woman or one election.  It's about the insidious messages about women's leadership that we all absorb.  Yes, it's okay to feel hurt and tired and discouraged right now.  And, in moments like these we need to be extra attentive to the messages we receive - and what we take away from them.  Especially if the takeaway is that capable women can't get ahead. Because more than ever, we need women who lead with purpose, who advocate for what's right, and who bring diverse voices to the decision-making table.  This episode is about re-centering. It's a call to reconnect with your purpose and your gifts.  Let's not wait for the world to be "ready" for us before we claim a seat at the table.   What You'll Learn:  Why "we aren't ready for women in power" is the wrong takeaway from the US election What leadership really looks like - from bold to quiet A message of resilience and encouragement for all of us For more information, visit The Mental Offload. 

Picture this: a woman with multiple Ivy degrees, running a reproductive rights think tank in NYC, crushing it on paper... yet finding herself curled up under her desk, feeling like a failure. This was Kara Loewentheil before she discovered the truth about why so many brilliant women feel like they're never quite "enough." In this week's must-listen episode, I sit down with Kara Loewntheil, host of the wildly popular "Unfuck Your Brain" podcast (and one of my mentors) to dive into her NYT bestseller, "Take Back Your Brain."  Whether you're questioning your worth at work, feeling the weight of being excellent in all domains, or simply tired of your inner critic running the show, this episode offers practical tools for developing true confidence. No "fake it til you make it" needed. What You'll Learn:  What's really behind the desire for external validation The trap of "conditional self-esteem" that keeps high-achieving women stuck in cycles of self-doubt How "over-responsibility" can keep women doing more than their fair share - at work and at home We don't shy away from the tough topics, like how do we balance working on ourselves while acknowledging very real structural barriers?  Ready to transform how you think about your own brain? Listen to the full episode here.  Featured in This Episode: Kara Loewentheil is the founder of The School of New Feminist Thought, the host of the internationally top-ranked podcast UnF*ck Your Brain: Feminist Self-Help for Everyone (50 million downloads and counting), and the creator of the Feminist Self-Help Society, a feminist mindset coaching community. Her first book, the instant national bestseller Take Back Your Brain: How A Sexist Society Gets in Your Head – and How to Get It Out, was released in May 2024 and immediately landed on the New York Times, USA Today, Publisher's Weekly, C-Suite, Amazon and Barnes & Noble bestseller charts. A graduate of Yale College and Harvard Law School, Kara did what every Ivy League lawyer should do: Quit a prestigious academic career to become a life coach! Eight years after she stepped down as director of a think tank at Columbia Law School, she has created a multiple-seven-figure business, taught millions of women how to identify the ways that sexist socialization impacts their brains, and helps women all over the world rewire their thought patterns to liberate themselves from the inside out. Learn more about Kara here.