Work It, Remote

After more than six years working remotely, I made a decision that surprised even me—I rented office space (well, co-sharing rented space).Not because I needed it for my business, but because something wasn’t working.In this episode, I share the three real reasons behind that decision: loneliness during the workday, a lack of creative energy, and a growing desire for identity and community outside of my roles at home.If you work remotely and have ever felt like something is missing—even when everything “should” be working—this is an honest reflection on that experience and an invitation to think about what might need to change for you.Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

Many people believe creativity belongs to artists—but creativity is actually one of the most important human skills we have.In this episode, Erika explores how creativity shows up in our work, leadership, and everyday lives. Through a personal story, she reflects on how her view of creativity evolved and why many of us unknowingly limit our own creative potential.Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

Working from home can quietly turn flexibility into assumed responsibility. In this episode of Work It, Remote, I explore how remote and flexible work often makes us the default person for unplanned moments—sick days, snow days, service appointments, last-minute interruptions, and everyday disruptions. I talk about the invisible mental load and anticipatory stress that comes with being “the one who’s home,” why these interruptions fragment focus and drain energy, and how pushing through without rest leads to burnout. This episode invites listeners to rethink boundaries, shared responsibility, and rest in remote work—whether you’re a parent or simply navigating the realities of flexible work.Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

Podcast: Work It, RemoteEpisode 19At the end of every year, I usually have a clear way of reflecting — what worked, what didn’t, and what I want to carry forward. But as 2025 came to a close, that process felt unusually hard. There was too much happening, too many threads to untangle, and no clear structure to make sense of it all.In this episode, I share the unexpected reflection process that helped unlock clarity — using three simple AI prompts that surfaced patterns I couldn’t see on my own. I walk through each prompt, what it revealed about how I’ve been over-editing and trying to finalize things that are still evolving, and why that habit was starting to hold me back.One insight in particular changed how I’m approaching this podcast, my work, and the year ahead: realizing that I’ve already mastered certain skills — and that continuing to over-index on them can become a barrier to growth. With help from AI, I landed on a new way to think about strategy, simplification, and when it’s actually time to iterate — what I now think of as revisiting decisions only when there’s friction from abundance.If you’ve been feeling scattered, stuck between versions of yourself, or pressured to have everything polished and figured out, this episode offers a thoughtful, practical way to reflect — and permission to let the becoming be.Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

Episode 18: Why I’m Hitting Record AgainPodcast: Work It, RemoteHost: Erika Joseph BergenAfter a nine-month pause, Work It, Remote is back — and in this update episode, host Erika Joseph Bergen shares why she stepped away, what she learned during the break, and how the podcast is evolving moving forward.Originally launched as a space to explore remote work through curiosity and community, the show slowly began to feel heavier — more focused on best practices, expert advice, and “shoulds.” In this episode, Erika reflects honestly on that shift and explains why she’s returning to a more personal, story-driven approach centered on noticing, learning in real time, and naming the things we don’t always say out loud about work.She also looks back at the most-listened-to episodes from past seasons — including conversations on remote work fundamentals, employee rights, AI in hiring, and navigating work with chronic illness — and shares how those themes are shaping what comes next.Going forward, Work It, Remote will release episodes on a monthly cadence and focus on the intersection of remote and flexible work, leadership, and identity.If you’re navigating remote or flexible work, leading in a distributed environment, or simply looking for a thoughtful space to process how work is changing, you’re in the right place.If this episode resonates, subscribe to the podcast so you’re notified when new monthly episodes are released — and feel free to share it with someone navigating work in this moment.Listen to the top 5 episodes from last season: 5. E2: Know Your Rights: The Law and Remote Work: https://www.workitremote.com/episode-2-know-your-rights-the-law-and-remote-work/4. E7: Leadership and Culture-Building in the Age of Remote Work: https://www.workitremote.com/e7-leadership-and-culture-building-in-the-age-of-remote-work/3. E16: AI, Hiring, and Getting Noticed: https://www.workitremote.com/e16-ai-hiring-and-getting-noticed-what-remote-job-seekers-and-hiring-managers-need-to-know/2. E1: Remote Work 101: 3 Tips to Set Up Your Space for Success: https://www.workitremote.com/episode-1-remote-work-101-3-tips-to-set-up-your-space-for-success/1.  E10: Working Remote and Thriving with Multiple Sclerosis: https://www.workitremote.com/e10-community-spotlight-real-stories-of-working-remotely-with-danielle-cornejo-calhoun/Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

Setting Boundaries & Building Empathy for the Child-Free Experience at Work✨ Episode Description: In this episode, we explore the unique and often overlooked experiences of child-free women in the workplace.Guest host La’Nita Green sits down with Kas Rigas, a seasoned communications executive and former Head of Communications at Maserati, for a candid conversation about navigating assumptions, setting limits, and advocating for yourself—without guilt.As more women choose not to have children or delay parenthood, workplace culture hasn't fully caught up. There's often an unspoken belief that child-free women have more time, and are therefore expected to take on more work or stay later. This episode is about naming that reality, creating healthy boundaries, and building empathy across the board—whether you're child-free, a parent, or somewhere in between.💬 Featuring:La’Nita Green is a communications strategist with over 15 years of experience helping leaders and organizations connect with employees, consumers, and communities. She’s also a writer, podcast contributor, and advocate for voices that are too often overlooked.Kas Rigas is a communications executive with global leadership experience, including roles at major firms and luxury brands. She’s a former manager of Erika’s, a mentor, and a self-described recovering workaholic with powerful insights from both a manager and employee perspective.🧭 In This Episode:Why remote work blurred the lines—and how to reclaim your timeWhat to do when you’re seen as “always available”How to advocate for yourself with managers (without feeling like a problem)Balancing eagerness with sustainabilityTools for prioritization and setting “hard” vs “soft” boundaries🙌 If you’ve ever felt the pressure to do more just because you don’t have kids—this one’s for you.And if you’re a leader or teammate, it’s also a call to build a more thoughtful, equitable workplace for everyone.Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

Navigating Remote Hiring and Job Seeking with AI and MindfulnessIn this episode, Erika interviews Fanni Gabor, an expert in recruitment and AI-powered hiring. Fanni shares her extensive experience in talent acquisition, emphasizing the integration of AI to streamline the hiring process while maintaining human touch. She provides practical tips for both job seekers and hiring managers, highlights the importance of tailored resumes, and discusses common mistakes in the application process. Fanni also delves into the significance of mindfulness and personal values in the job search journey, offering a holistic perspective on achieving meaningful work connections.Get in touch with Fanni: [email protected] Fanni's meditation playlist for interviews: https://open.spotify.com/show/4T7sL4k5LhOtDKQhclQiEt?si=09bdd6849e684a2bDon't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this episode, you will learn a simple, 5-minute make-up morning routine that will have you looking and feeling your best. Seriously. You don't want to miss this discussion and live tutorial with Rebecca Cummings Scales, co-founder of Elegance Artistry. In its 14th year, Elegance Artistry has teams of make-up artists and hair stylists serving people across the U.S.  Rebecca gives us the inside scoop sharing her professional makeup tips to help you face your remote work day. I asked Rebecca everything from lighting, to how to conceal blemishes, to what's the difference between high-end and drugstore products.We also dive into make-up application tricks! Watch as Rebecca teaches me how to apply brow pencil, concealer, bronzer, and mascara for a quick yet polished look for the screen. Rebecca explains the significance of each step and demonstrates the techniques, making the process approachable for everyone. She highlights the importance of prioritizing certain makeup products based on the time available and offers me some personalized tips that you can learn from.This episode is about the importance of feeling confident and showing up as the best version of oneself, especially in virtual work environments. Don't miss it!To get the full effect of this episode, head over to YouTube so you can watch the video. https://youtu.be/PWX6v-Az3TcTo get in touch with Rebecca: Visit https://www.eleganceartistry.com/Follow @eleganceartistrygroup on social media Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Jasen, owner of Sage and Sunshine Therapy. We delve into how our phones have integrated into our daily lives and techniques for creating a healthier relationship with your phone and other electronic devices. Laura highlights the necessity of setting routines, like limiting news consumption to a specific time each morning and paying attention to our bodily reactions to prolonged screen time. She suggests creating hard stops in our use of devices, such as switching our phones to black and white mode in the evenings or utilizing 'quiet' modes to reduce notifications.We discuss the challenges of maintaining boundaries, and how communicating boundaries clearly within our professional circles can help maintain them. The conversation covers practical recommendations for managing digital consumption, like subscribing to concise newsletters for news, paying attention to physical cues of stress from device overuse, and choosing activities that genuinely recharge us. Wrapping up, we emphasize creating intentional device-free times and places, both in personal settings like the bedroom and communal activities like family dinners. We also explore how to balance professional boundary-setting with the demands of remote work. Laura encourages finding activities that promote real-life connections and cautions against letting our devices dominate our free time. For those who found this conversation insightful, I'm inviting comments, ratings, and subscriptions to our community. Be well!Connect with Laura at https://www.sageandsunshinetherapy.com/Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this episode, we dive deep into the ever-relevant topic of burnout, which McKinsey's recent study shows affects about a third of the workforce—yes, one-third! Surprisingly, this number is even higher than during the pandemic. So what's going on? We break down what burnout really means, why it’s happening, and most importantly, what you can do about it without needing to quit your job or have tough talks with your boss.  You'll learn about the importance of organizational practices over working models, the five key components for a healthy work culture, and how burnout symptoms might show up in your life. We also chat about a useful framework from the book 'Resonant Leadership' that can help you manage stress and find balance through mindfulness, hope, compassion, and joy. Plus, we’ve got three actionable exercises: tuning into a past episode for tips on mindfulness and joy, doing a values exercise to connect with your 'why,' and planning out your personal renewal strategy. By the end, you'll be armed with new tools to get more joy out of your work and keep burnout at bay. Don’t forget to subscribe for more tips and connect with us at workitremote.com. Stay well and take care of yourself—you got this!McKinsey article, Returning to the office? Focus more on practices and less on policy: https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/returning-to-the-office-focus-more-on-practices-and-less-on-the-policyRead Resonant Leadership by Richard Boyatzis and Annie McKee: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/resonant-leadership-richard-boyatzis/1129981949Listen to Ep 6, How Breath Can Unlock Your Best Self: https://www.workitremote.com/6Youtube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n17MxgO97jIDon't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

Ever notice how sitting at your desk all day makes your whole body feel... blah? You're not alone. In this episode, we're exploring how our sedentary work habits—especially in remote settings—are messing with our energy, confidence, and yes, even our sex lives. My guest, Nya McKenzie, is highly skilled in physical therapy, pelvic floor therapy, pilates, myofascial therapy, and facial therapy and offers a holistic view of health and wellness. She's breaking down the science, the mindset, and the movement strategies that can help you feel better, move more, and connect deeper (with yourself and your partner.)Get in touch with Nya at: https://www.pilatesptrehab.com/Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this short episode, I share an embarrassing moment at work that taught me a simple trick for better managing my time when working from home.  Time management is a consistent theme I hear as a challenge for remote workers. Listen in for a quick story on what happened to me, and one simple thing you can start TODAY so you're set up for success at work. Don't make my mistake! Share your time management tips at workitremote.com. Leave me a voice message via the pink microphone or go to "Contact" on the site and send me a written message. Don't forget to subscribe to get more content like this.Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this episode, we kick off a new "Community Spotlight" series, where we'll hear stories from real women WIR (Working It, Remote). Our first spotlight is with Danielle Cornejo Calhoun, a remote worker outside of Seattle, WA. She shares her journey of struggling with MS and how her disability eventually led her to have a courageous conversation with her employer about working remotely (pre-pandemic). Danielle opens up about her challenges and triumphs, explaining how remote work became essential for her job sustainability. Danielle has her dream job and she talks about how she handled setbacks to thrive in her career while working remotely. She also candidly shares her experience as a mom of two young kids, how she juggles it all, and manages the "mom guilt" moments. This episode was recorded in December 2024. It feels particularly relevant, in light of the recent RTO mandates and rollback of DEI initiatives. Danielle is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, she discusses this passion in the episode. Her perspective as someone living and working with a chronic disability provides a much-needed human lens on how flexible work and DEI intersect in powerful ways. https://www.daniellecalhoun.comDon't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this episode, I sit down with Brittany Smith, an early childhood educator, to discuss strategies for parents working remotely with young children. Brittany shares practical tips on teaching kids independence, establishing boundaries, and promoting quiet time through various activities. She emphasizes the importance of creating structured routines, setting expectations, using visual cues like voice level charts and stop/go signs, as well as both intrinsic and extrinsic rewards. Additionally, she highlights the significance of consistency and patience. The discussion includes examples and advice for managing common challenges, encouraging positive reinforcement, and setting up effective home environments to help remote working parents balance their schedules, reduce stress, and support their child's development. Brittany has nearly a decade of experience in early childhood and elementary education. She specializes in inclusion classrooms and differentiated instruction. You can connect with Brittany on Instagram at @wandering.britt Video podcast: https://youtu.be/1o3Th9jKLrEDon't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this episode, we dive into strategies for managing up with hands-off managers, inspired by Irina Cozma's article in Harvard Business Review. Building on leadership skills discussed in episode 7, we explore the three C's: coaching, communication, and consulting skills, and how to apply them to manage up effectively. Learn how to ask pointed questions, position yourself as a partner to your manager, and create connection and shared accountability so you can set yourself up for success in your relationship with your manager while working remotely. Read HBR's "How to Work for a Hands-off Manager When You're Fully Remote" by Irina Cozma.Listen to episode 7, Leadership and Culture-Building in the Age of Remote WorkDon't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this episode, I have the privilege of diving into effective leadership in remote and hybrid work environments with Kerri Warner, the new Head of Employee Communications, Culture and Engagement @PayPal. She shares her extensive experience in leadership roles at companies, including Spotify, MasterCard, American Express, Deloitte, and PWC to discuss the changing dynamics in remote work and the critical leadership skills needed today. Throughout the conversation, we explore how to foster engagement, trust, and communication in dispersed teams, emphasizing the importance of a human-centered approach to leadership. Recorded in October 2024, this discussion is loaded with helpful insights and practical advice for job seekers and leaders aiming to navigate and thrive in today's evolving remote work landscape.Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

Welcome to a special New Year's episode focused on mindfulness, joy, and energy. Join me as I sit down with Christine (Tine) Lu Singh, a breathwork coach and intuitive guide. Together we dive into the transformative power of breathwork. Discover techniques for active guided meditation that can help dissolve stress, regain focus, and release stagnant emotions. Tine shares her insights on integrating breathwork into busy schedules, and tips for incorporating joy into daily life. From setting intentions to practicing gratitude, this episode offers practical advice for starting your year with intention and mindfulness. Tune in for a grounding and uplifting experience to kick off 2025.Connect with Tine on Instagram @breathewithtine and www.breathewithtine.comDon't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this revealing episode, I share aspects of my own personal journey as a remote-working mother of two, emphasizing the unique experience of postpartum recovery and return to remote work. Joined by guest Jarriel Campbell, owner of Call Your Doula, we discuss the physical and emotional changes during post-partum, and provide practical advice for managing your return to work after maternity or family leave, including (breast)feeding, sleep, social isolation, work transitions, and building your village so that you can return to remote work feeling supported in the transition. The episode provides valuable tips on creating a postpartum and work transition plan to support mothers (and partners) in their journey back to remote work while nurturing their well-being and bonding with their new baby.You can learn more about Jarriel at: https://www.callyourdoula.com/https://www.youtube.com/@callyourdoula/videoshttps://www.facebook.com/callyourdoulaDon't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

Ever join an important meeting and you're the only one remote? It's so challenging! In this jam-packed episode, I share my personal strategies for showing up your best when you're on the big screen and (mostly) everyone else is in person. I focus on how to prepare yourself, maintain a strong presence, and contribute with confidence. Tune in for helpful tips that will help you work it, remote. Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this episode of 'Work It Remote,' I interview Maria Iames, a successful executive communication coach and highly sought-after parenting coach specializing in parenting preteens and teens. This conversation delves into common challenges such as setting boundaries, dealing with teen independence, and maintaining effective communication. Maria highlights the importance of non-judgmental support, realistic expectations, and the value of carving out time for bonding. She also discusses the significance of clear communication, the role of partners, and the delicate balance between work and family life. Listen to discover actionable strategies to foster better relationships with your teens while managing remote work commitments.You can find Maria at: www.executivecoachplaybook.com@executivecoachplaybook on IGDon't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this episode, I sit down with employment law expert Sharon Cohen to discuss the evolving landscape of remote work and employee rights. Sharon, a partner at Davis and Gilbert in New York, shares insights from her extensive experience advising employers on various aspects of employment law. Sharon explains how remote workers can protect themselves, the importance of understanding state-specific employment laws, and offers practical advice for maintaining professionalism in a remote work environment. The discussion also explores predictions on future changes in employment law after the results of the recent U.S. election. Connect with Sharon at https://www.dglaw.com/people/sharon-cohen/Please note that with respect to the federal overtime exemption discussed at the 29 minutes mark, the lower federal salary threshold will now apply, however higher state salary thresholds would still apply.Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this first podcast episode, I share my top 3 tips for setting up an effective remote workspace. Inspired by a few hard-learned lessons, the episode focuses on key essentials every remote working woman needs to minimize distractions, maintain professionalism, and set herself up for success!Here are the products I use in my home office that I mention in the podcast. (the links below are affiliate links, which means I get a little thank you money from Amazon or other companies. This is at no extra cost to you, however. Thank you in advance!)Avermedia Webcam: https://amzn.to/3Dpt8NmSteelcase chair: https://amzn.to/3P8yuQ5Uplift desk (my desk has the bamboo top): https://amzn.to/4gtea7mHP OfficeJet Pro 8025: https://amzn.to/4fetFzeDon't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube 

In this introduction to the 'Work It Remote' community and podcast, Erika Bergen shares why she was inspired to create this podcast and what you can expect as a listener. She aims to offer relatable advice and honest discussions on making remote work successful for women, featuring expert insights and personal stories. Erika challenges the misconception that remote work sidelines women's careers, highlighting its potential to help women achieve their ideal work-life blend. Subscribe now to receive weekly doses of inspiration that will enhance your remote working experience. Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on Instagram and YouTube