The Work-Life Equation: Recent Episodes
Bright Horizons Family Solutions
Tune into The Work-Life Equation, a podcast series brought to you by Bright Horizons®, for information on parenting, caregiving, and balancing work with everyday life.
As we close out the year on The Work Life Equation, Priya and Paul unpack the biggest insights from a year of powerful conversations with HR leaders, benefit innovators, and caregiving champions. From the "manager lottery" to the infrastructure of care, we explore how companies are evolving their support strategies—and why 94% of employees say family benefits matter more than ever.
Whether you're designing benefit programs or trying to make sense of what's available to you, this episode offers expert-backed clarity, relatable stories, and actionable takeaways.
Because when benefits are understood and accessible, everyone wins.
Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and right here on YouTube.
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Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies behind work-life success.
Follow Bright Horizons for more insights:
Instagram: @brighthorizons
LinkedIn: Bright Horizons
Facebook: @BrightHorizons
X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons
Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.
#WorkLifeEquation #brighthorizons #employeeexperience #caregiving #leadership #podcast
What if child care wasn't just a benefit but a game-changer for employee loyalty, engagement, and even talent attraction? In this episode of The Work-Life Equation, we talk with Meghan Klosterman, Senior Manager of Child Care Programs at Walmart, about the launch of Little Squiggles Children's Enrichment Center, a groundbreaking initiative designed to support working parents at Walmart's headquarters. Meghan shares how her personal journey as an educator and mom shaped the vision for a center that's more than just child care, it's a strategic investment in employee well-being, retention, and loyalty.
Whether you're an HR leader or a working parent, this episode offers inspiration and practical insights into building benefits that truly matter.
Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
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Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies behind work-life success.
Follow Bright Horizons for more insights:
Instagram: @brighthorizons
LinkedIn: Bright Horizons
Facebook: @BrightHorizons
X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons
Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.
#WorkLifeEquation #PapaJohns #ChadJones #brighthorizons #employeeexperience #caregiving #leadership #podcast
What if your employee benefits could do more than support the day-to-day—they could shape someone's entire future? In this episode, we hear from Chad Jones at Papa John's, whose own journey from pizza maker to PhD candidate inspired a company-wide education initiative. "Dough & Degrees" is helping frontline workers earn diplomas, grow careers, and stay engaged—all while staying on the job.
For employers, it's a blueprint for retention and impact. For employees, it's proof that the right support can unlock real opportunity. Tune in for a story that's equal parts practical and powerful.
Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and right here on YouTube.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Don't forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies behind work-life success.
Follow Bright Horizons for more insights:
Instagram: @brighthorizons
LinkedIn: Bright Horizons
Facebook: @BrightHorizons
X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons
Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.
#WorkLifeEquation #BandofSisters #brighthorizons #employeeexperience #caregiving #leadership #podcast
What happens when companies truly put people first? In this episode of The Work-Life Equation, we sit down with Lori Marcus and Angelique Bellmer Krembs—two powerhouse leaders from The Band of Sisters—to explore how inclusive cultures aren’t just good for morale—they’re good for business.
Through real stories and bold insights, Lori and Angelique reveal how:
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Flexibility fuels retention and performance
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Empathy and equity drive innovation
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“People-first” must be more than a slogan—it must be a strategy
If you're a leader, HR professional, or culture builder looking to create workplaces where people thrive and businesses grow, this episode is your blueprint.
Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and right here on YouTube.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Don’t forget to follow to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies behind work-life success.
Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons
Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.
#WorkLifeEquation #BandofSisters #brighthorizons #employeeexperience #caregiving #leadership #podcast
How do you design benefits that actually work—for everyone? In this episode, Alyssa Friedrich, Chief People Officer at United Therapeutics, shares how flexible, inclusive benefits like child care, backup care, and mental wellness support are driving retention, equity, and engagement across a multigenerational, hybrid workforce.
If you're building a people-first culture that performs, this one's for you.
Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and right here on YouTube.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Don’t forget to follow to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies behind work-life success.
Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons
Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.
#WorkLifeEquation #AlyssaFriedrich #brighthorizons #employeeexperience #caregiving #leadership #podcast
What if care wasn’t a perk, but the foundation of a thriving workforce? In this episode of The Work Life Equation, Blessing Adesiyan, founder of The Care Gap, shares how supporting caregivers boosts productivity and retention, why flexible policies create real equity, and how care is no longer a “nice to have”, it’s a business imperative. Through powerful stories and bold insights, she makes the case for treating care as infrastructure, and a strategic advantage.
If you're rethinking how your workplace supports people, this episode is a must-listen.
Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and right here on YouTube.
____________________________________________________________________________
Don’t forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies behind work-life success.
Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons
Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.
What if childcare was the key to your company’s success? In this episode of The Work Life Equation, we sit down with Jenny Guldseth, Chief People & Culture Officer at Allianz Life, to explore how investing in working parents transformed their workplace. From on-site childcare to flexible leadership, Jenny shares candid stories, hard-won lessons, and bold strategies that are reshaping the future of work.
A must-listen for HR leaders, people managers, and anyone rethinking the future of work.
Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and right here on YouTube.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Don’t forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies behind work-life success.
Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons
Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.
#WorkLifeEquation #CindySilva #brighthorizons #employeeexperience #caregiving #leadership #podcast
In this episode, Priya and Paul sit down with Cindy Silva, HR leader and benefits expert, to explore how modern employee support, from student loan repayment to elder care, is reshaping the workplace. Cindy shares how these benefits have personally impacted her and why they matter now more than ever across generations.
This episode is for HR teams, company leaders, working parents, and anyone rethinking how to support employees at every life stage.
Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.
__________________________________________________________________________________
Don’t forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies behind work-life success.
Follow Bright Horizons for more insights: Instagram: @brighthorizons LinkedIn: Bright Horizons Facebook: @BrightHorizons X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons
Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.
#WorkLifeEquation #CindySilva #brighthorizons #employeeexperience #caregiving #leadership #podcast
In this episode, Priya and Paul sit down with Subha Barry, President of Seramount, global inclusion expert, and one of the most resilient leaders in the business. From high-stakes boardrooms to deeply personal health battles, Subha shares how her lived experiences have redefined what meaningful employee support should look like.
This episode is for leaders, working parents, HR teams, and anyone rethinking how we define success at work and at home. Streaming now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and right here on YouTube.
Don’t forget to subscribe to catch future episodes where we explore the real-life strategies behind work-life success.
Follow Bright Horizons for more insights:
Instagram: @brighthorizons
LinkedIn: Bright Horizons
Facebook: @BrightHorizons
X (Twitter): @BrightHorizons
Produced by Bright Horizons Family Solutions Inc.
In this eye-opening bonus episode, Donald Knight II, a seasoned HR leader and father, shares his journey of balancing parenthood and professional life. From his evolving perspective on parental leave to innovative approaches in supporting a multi-generational workforce, Donald offers valuable insights on creating inclusive work environments. He discusses the importance of allyship, the changing needs of Gen Z workers, and the critical skills leaders need in today's rapidly evolving workplace. Join us for a candid exploration of the modern work-life equation and discover strategies for fostering empathy, resilience, and effective storytelling in your professional life.
Join Priya Krishnan and Paul Sullivan in a special bonus episode of The Work-Life Equation podcast. In this episode, they welcome Kanika Chadda-Gupta, host of That's Total Mom Sense, as she interviews Priya and Paul about their fascinating career paths, parenting journeys, and the impact of their roles. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation filled with personal anecdotes, career insights, and practical advice for parents striving to excel in their careers and personal lives.
In this illuminating episode of The Work-Life Equation podcast, hosts Paul Sullivan and Priya Krishnan welcome Nobel Prize-winning economist Professor James Heckman from the University of Chicago. Professor Heckman shares insights from his groundbreaking research on early childhood education and its long-term impacts on individuals and society. In this episode, Heckman explains the 'Heckman Equation,' which demonstrates the high return on investment for early childhood education programs. He discusses findings from landmark studies like the Perry Preschool Project, highlighting how early interventions can significantly improve life outcomes, including health, education, and economic prosperity. The episode also explores the challenges of implementing effective early childhood programs, considering the roles of parents, employers, and government. Heckman offers valuable insights on work-life balance and parenting, emphasizing the importance of consistency and engagement in child-rearing. This thought-provoking discussion illuminates the critical importance of investing in our youngest citizens and the far-reaching benefits for individuals, families, and society as a whole.
Chief Diversity Officer and author Mita Mallick gets candid about the myths and biases holding back working parents in today's workplaces. Drawing from her bestselling book "Reimagine" and years of leadership experience, Mita debunks the notion that extended maternity leave alone supports women, emphasizing the need to transform mindsets around involved fatherhood too. She shares powerful stories navigating the "motherhood penalty" in her own career after having children, from being asked "who's watching your kids?" to having her performance rating docked while on parental leave. Mita calls out the importance of proactive management training to interrupt biases and advocates for true paid parental leave, not just maternity policies. This engaging conversation covers making workplaces more inclusive for the "sandwich generation," the power of employee resource groups, and Mita's empowering advice for working mothers. Her insights illuminate the path toward integrating, not balancing, work and life.
In this candid conversation, working moms Casandra Williams and Aurore Joshi open up about the challenges and joys of navigating careers while juggling caregiving responsibilities. Casandra, a first-generation college graduate and mother to a 2-year-old, shares her strategies for effective co-parenting and staying organized. Aurore provides a moving account of her 20-year journey as the "sandwich generation" caregiver – supporting her ailing single mother for 11 years, and then her father's declining health shortly after the birth of her first child. The two mothers offer invaluable insights on mindfulness, prioritizing self-care, finding moments of joy amidst hardship, and giving oneself grace during life's intense seasons. They discuss the importance of supportive managers, affordable backup care, and building a nurturing "village." With refreshing vulnerability, Casandra and Aurore emphasize the lessons of gratitude, self-love and acceptance that their caregiving journeys have taught them. This powerful episode illuminates the daily struggles and resilience of modern working parents striving to find harmony across work and life.
On this episode Priya and Paul are joined by Dr. Aditi Nerukar, a Harvard physician, nationally recognized stress expert, and author of the book "Rewire Your Brain for Less Stress and More Joy." Dr. Nerukar shares invaluable insights from her years of expertise working with patients on managing stress and burnout. She debunks the myth of multitasking, explaining how our brains are wired for "monotasking" and provides actionable strategies like time blocking to boost productivity. She also offers empowering advice for working mothers navigating the impossible demands placed on them. Whether you're looking to rewire your relationship with stress or simply live with more joy, this candid conversation with the insightful Dr. Nerukar provides a roadmap for lasting change.
DeAnne Aussem, Managing Director and Wellbeing Leader at PwC, shares her inspiring journey as a female executive while navigating work, parenthood, and finding harmony across life's different spheres. DeAnne provides an inside look at PwC's pioneering "Be Well, Work Well" initiative launched in 2017 to prioritize employee wellness across six dimensions: physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, financial, and social. DeAnne also opens up about her own experiences as a wife, mother of two, and a caregiver. Her authentic storytelling offers insights into modeling work-life integration, the importance of self-care, and creating truly inclusive cultures where employees can thrive as their whole selves.
Dr. Ramon Jacobs-Shaw is redefining what it means to be a modern father and healthcare leader. From growing up in rural poverty to achieving dual board certifications in pediatrics and internal medicine at elite institutions, Ramon has been driven by a passion for serving underserved populations like his own Lumbee tribe. He opens up about his roles championing health equity as Chief Clinical Officer at Belong Health and being a "visible dad" modeling engaged fatherhood. Ramon provides an inside look at the pivotal experiences that shaped his holistic perspective on medicine, leadership, LGBTQ+ family building, work-life integration, and bringing diverse voices to the healthcare decision-making table.
In this powerful episode, author Jessica Fein discusses her new memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken Genes, which chronicles her family's journey caring for their daughter Dalia, who was diagnosed with a rare degenerative disease at age 5. Jessica opens up about the range of emotions - fear, grief, guilt - that came with being a caregiver while also working full-time and raising her three children. She shares candid insights about navigating relationships, finding support systems, and the judgment she faced for continuing to work while caring for her daughter. Jessica also talks about her advocacy work and her Psychology Today column "Grace and Grief" which explores our society's attitudes towards loss. With remarkable vulnerability, she offers hard-won wisdom on balancing work and life, and what friends and employers can do to truly show up during life's most challenging times.
In this insightful episode, leadership expert and author Jenna Fisher shares her inspiring journey and hard-won wisdom from over 20 years of helping women navigate the corporate ranks. Drawing from her bestselling book To the Top, Jenna provides a practical playbook for creating meaningful change and closing the gender gap in executive roles. She discusses the importance of authenticity in leadership, the power of sponsorship, redefining career paths as a "web" rather than a ladder, and how the leadership traits once considered "feminine" are now indispensable in today’s workforce. Jenna also offers candid advice on work-life balance, supporting parents through equitable leave policies, harnessing age diversity, and empowering the next generation to maximize their potential.
Pulitzer-prize winning Wall Street Journal reporter and author Joann Lublin shares invaluable wisdom from her books Power Moms and Earning It which detail how executive mothers can thrive at the highest levels while navigating work and family. Lublin reveals eye-opening findings from her interviews with more than 100 trailblazing leaders across generations, including powerful strategies they used to overcome bias, find work-life sway, and pay it forward to uplift other women. With candid storytelling and practical advice, Joann shows how embracing mentorship and choosing the right workplace enables ambitious moms to redefine success on their own terms.
David Smith, a former Navy pilot who is now an associate professor at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, shares eye-opening insights on achieving gender equity in the workplace and at home. Drawing from his own experiences in the male-dominated Naval Academy and military, as well as his extensive research with co-author Brad Johnson, David dives deep into the systematic biases and everyday actions that hold women back professionally. He provides powerful strategies for leaders to build more inclusive cultures through true allyship. With candid personal anecdotes about raising his son and daughter, he offers inspiring advice for dads on prioritizing family alongside work success.
Dr. Dana Suskind, a trailblazing surgeon, and researcher, has built a career on the profound impact that parent-child interactions have on children’s brains. Drawing from cutting-edge science and her own inspirational life story, Dr. Suskind shares practical strategies that any parent or caregiver can use to massively boost a child's cognitive development and lifelong potential. You'll learn why societies that support parents end up with smarter, healthier, more successful children - and what employers and policymakers can do to prioritize early childhood. Whether you're a new parent or you work with families, this is an eye-opening look at how talking, reading, and engaging with young kids can quite literally shape their minds for the future. Don't miss this opportunity to become a "brain architect!”
David Newson, founder of XNW Digital, is a seasoned professional who brings a unique perspective to the discussion of work-life integration and mindful leadership. With a successful career in marketing and a genuine commitment to striking a balance between professional success and personal fulfillment, David's insights into intentional time management and navigating the challenges of parenthood and leadership are sure to resonate with working parents and leaders seeking improved work-life integration. His personal journey and experiences offer valuable wisdom and practical strategies for finding harmony between professional and personal responsibilities.
In this episode of The Work Life Equation podcast, co-founders Roger Brown and Linda Mason share the story of their incredible journey that inspired them to start Bright Horizons and revolutionize the child care industry. They also talk about their hopes for the future of early childhood education, especially for those in one of the most important roles: our teachers.
Do you want your employees to be happier and more productive? Are you looking for a solution to improve their work-life balance? Look no further.
Join Christine Michel Carter, Priya Krishnan, and Lars Minns, CHRO of Mercedes-Benz, North America, we discuss the key to achieving greater employee well-being and satisfaction. By implementing effective strategies, you can create a workplace environment that prioritizes the mental and physical health of your team. This will result in increased job satisfaction, better work-life balance, and a more engaged and motivated workforce.
Let's work together to create a workplace culture that supports and values employee well-being.
Does this sound familiar? You want to foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all families, but you're not quite sure how. You may have been told to simply ignore differences and treat everyone the same, but that approach hasn't yielded the results you hoped for.
The truth is, ignoring diversity can actually lead to feelings of exclusion and disrespect. You may be feeling frustrated and uncertain about how to move forward. But don't worry - in this episode with our featured guest, Ariel Foxman, we'll explore the importance of respecting and celebrating diverse family structures and traditions. You'll gain valuable insights and practical tips to create a more inclusive and harmonious society.
Do you want to break barriers, shatter glass ceilings, and become a game-changer in your male-dominated industry? Do you want to see diversity and gender equality thrive within your workplace? If so, we have the solution for you.
Join Christine and Priya on this week's episode of The Work-Life Equation as they speak with Swin Cash, an empowering leader, speaker, and advocate. She shares how you can achieve the ultimate goal: to become an unstoppable force and achieve gender parity in your industry. Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and equipped with the tools and strategies to take your career to the next level.
Ann Shoket, founder of New Power Media and CEO of The Li.st, shares her inspiring journey of reinventing her career as an author and entrepreneur after her memorable career as Editor-in-Chief at Seventeen Magazine.
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Understand the value of a solid support network for women in their workplace journey.
- Tackle the issue of loneliness that often plagues women pursuing professional development.
- Discover fresh approaches to re-envisioning power dynamics and success for women.
- Harness the strength of your existing relationships to expand your professional network.
- Promote a culture of cooperation to establish a fairer and more inclusive workplace.
In this episode of The Work-Life Equation, Minda Harts shares her experience as a black woman in the corporate workplace and how she founded The Memo to help women of color advocate for themselves. The conversation digs deeper into workplace trauma, diversity initiatives, and the impact of the pandemic on women of color. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode that will leave you wanting more answers.
Minda Harts is a renowned author, entrepreneur, and diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant. With a passion for empowering women of color in the corporate world, Minda has dedicated her career to addressing workplace trauma and advocating for a more inclusive and equitable environment. Her insightful book, The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table, has become a must-read for those navigating the challenges of the professional world. As the CEO of The Memo LLC, a career development company, Minda also offers guidance and support for women of color looking to excel in their careers.
Eve Rodsky was determined to lighten the unfair burden of domestic labor placed on women, but she never expected blueberries would be the catalyst of her movement.
In this episode, you will:
- Discover the significance of fair and equal distribution of domestic labor, while fostering harmony within relationships
- Unravel the role of effective communication in breaking down gender roles and expectations
- Learn how to continuously reassess and adapt to maintain equilibrium between work and personal life
- Acknowledge the impact and necessity of self-care, mental wellness, and personal identity cultivation in nurturing fulfilling relationships.
Eve Rodsky is a game-changing author and thought leader in the world of domestic labor and partnership equity. With her revolutionary book "Fair Play", she has helped countless women and families navigate the often-chaotic waters of household responsibilities. Eve's expertise in this area stems from her own personal experiences, as well as her extensive research on the topic.
She's a sought-after speaker and consultant, offering insights and strategies that empower women and create more balanced partnerships. With a relatable and engaging personality, Eve Rodsky is the perfect guest for this conversation on achieving “Fair Play”.
Paul Sullivan, a former New York Times columnist, embarked on a quest to build the leading platform for Lead Dads, challenging the traditional notion of what defines being a father and parent.
In this episode, you will learn how to:
- Embrace fatherhood by breaking free from traditional gender roles
- Discover balance in juggling work and caregiving tasks to become a modern dad
- Redefine success in parenting through a new lens of work-life integration
- Enhance your communication, teamwork, and self-care strategies for more purposeful parenting
Paul is the founder of The Company of Dads, the first platform dedicated to creating a community for Lead Dads. Its mission is to help Lead Dads feel less isolated and more confident that they have made the correct choice to take on the bulk of the parenting and family duties - or at the very least not embrace stereotypes around who does what at home.
As a Lead Dad himself, Paul understands intimately the joys, frustrations, isolation and reticence around talking about being a Lead Dad. It’s a role that is growing in numbers but is far from normalized.
Before starting The Company of Dads in 2021, Paul wrote the Wealth Matters column in The New York Times for 13 years. He also created the Money Game column in GOLF Magazine.
"Lead with grace, dignity and compassion and empower the next generation to light the path for a brighter future."
Alanah Odoms is the first Black woman to lead the ACLU of Louisiana in its 65 year history. She is a civil rights leader, professional and spiritual support to countless activists, and a single mother to her daughter, Elan.
She taught her daughter to embrace her unique identity and to not be weighed down by the expectations of the world. Alanah believes in creating a pipeline of leadership for women, black people, and other marginalized individuals. She encourages her daughter to use her privilege to help others, and to use her light to light up the candles of others. In this episode, you will learn the following:
- How can we use our resources to affect positive change in the world?
- How can we create a world that our children can inherit that respects their identities?
- How can we practice conscious leadership and empower our children to become the next generation of leaders?
Deborah Cox, a resilient mother of three, fearlessly jumps between the lily pads of opportunity to balance her own ambitions with her personal life as a mother and wife, despite the obstacles of a pandemic and the unexpected “no's" of life.
You will learn:
- How have Deborah Cox and her family managed to create a balance between their values, principles, and professional lives?
- How did Deborah Cox learn to embrace failure and use it as a source of motivation?
Deborah Cox is an award winning recording artist and Canadian Music Hall of Fame Inductee. She is a trailblazing international icon with a nearly three decade long career, and a dedicated mother of three who is committed to fighting back against marginalization and inequity.
After winning the lottery of life with a supportive family, Indra Nooyi, a trailblazing woman, must juggle her responsibilities as a mother and CEO while navigating the conflicting demands of power and humility.
You will learn:
- How can working parents balance work and family responsibilities?
- What strategies can be used to ensure success and overcome prejudices?
- How can companies embrace and deploy the best talent from a diverse pool?
Indra Nooyi is an award-winning business leader, New York Times bestselling author, and the first woman of color and immigrant to run a Fortune 50 company. She is consistently ranked one of the world's 100 most powerful women.
It seems like forever ago: working parents dropping the kids at child care and then heading to work. Today those same parents ARE child care — and they’re still going to work, just in the home office. We asked about strategies, trial and error, and generally, how it’s going. Here’s what parents told us.
World events shake all of us — parents and children alike. So how do you answer when your child asks, “Are we going to be okay?” On this bonus episode, we feature an important discussion from our podcast, “Teach. Play. Love.” Bright Horizons early childhood education expert Rachel Robertson gives concrete advice on all of it — supporting your child through difficult times, giving calm, simple reassurances to tough questions, and using play time to help process and express feelings.
In 2014, the first Bright Horizons Modern Family Index surveyed mothers and fathers about working and parenting. They said it was hard. This year we asked again, and guess what? It’s even harder. On this episode, Bright Horizons VP Jennifer Vena breaks down the key highlights and shares stories from working parents in the trenches — and the extremes parents are going to make work and family fit.
Four of our awesome Bright Horizons vice presidents talk very candidly about being working mothers and having high-powered careers. Listen again to this episode, as they reveal what’s worked for them, what hasn’t, and what they had to let go of to build the careers and the families they wanted.
What’s your most recent parenting success story? We asked, and parents told us about theirs — the big and little wins that made them break out in happy dances. Plus, our resident editor of our parenting blog, The Family Room, gave us the lowdown on what parents talked about in the last 12 months, trends for 2020, and why this should be the year to show yourself more love for the great job you do every day.
Holiday stress is no joke. When it seems like everyone’s in a perpetual rush to the next moment, how can you and your family just enjoy where you are? And what can you do to make the holidays more meaningful? We asked two of Bright Horizons’ own early childhood experts, Debbie Hoppy and Melanie Brooks. Listen to this episode to find out how to press pause, be present, and focus on what feels right.
We all start with the idealized image of parenting. Then comes the first night of crying (yours and the baby’s), and you wonder if you were cut out for this at all. On this episode, mother/daughter parenting pros Marti and Erin Erickson get real about new motherhood; the elation, the blues, being good to yourself, and why we all should be OK with asking for help (even from work) when we need it.
Dread making school lunches? You’ve got lots of company. A study (really!) says it’s a parent’s most dreaded task. Why no love for lunch? And what can we do to restore the love — and get your kids to eat what you pack? Listen as the Scramble’s Jessica Braider talks strategies for lunches you (and your kids) will love.
Did you celebrate the return of the school bus, or did you dread it? We asked Christine Koh, one of our favorite guests, host of the award-winning podcast, “Edit Your Life.” Listen to this episode to get tried-and-true tips straight from the host and guest extraordinaire for the new school year, including how to delegate family tasks (hint: kids can help, too!), ways to avoid overload, and why it’s ok to say “no” to volunteer gigs, guilt free. Just in time for September, we’re revisiting our conversation and Christine’s strategies for going back to school.
Nanny canceled on the day of a big meeting? Call in the reserves! That’s the principal behind back-up care: click or call (even at the last minute) and a nanny will be sent right to your door. How does it work, and how do you get it? Tune in for our expert primer on the basics of back-up care, and how it can save your workday.
In child care, as in real estate, it’s location, location, location. But is the right center for you near home or work? That’s the question! If you need help deciding, this episode — featuring two Bright Horizons moms, one ace child care consultant, and a checklist of details to consider — is for you. You can also always get help with your child care search with our Bright Horizons Center Locator at https://www.brighthorizons.com/child-care-locator?utm_source=soundcloud&IMS_Source_Specify=soundcloudWleEp31
The pumping, the storage, the oddly personal conversations with co-workers...can nursing and working ever feel comfortable? Karen Rubin, work-life coach and consultant with Life Meets Work, answers questions from expectant moms on breastfeeding at work — including laws, accommodations, and why nursing means never having to say, “I’m sorry I have to go pump.”
Cheating...bribery...athletic scholarships for sports never played—how did admissions get so wacky? Fresh from her morning-show tour, Bright Horizons educational counseling vice president, and former admissions officer, Elizabeth Heaton stopped by to give us the lowdown on admissions, why we shouldn’t worry, and the legal way to help your child land a great school (hint: no bribery required).
Not long ago, we talked to author and consultant Jodi Detjen about what it will take get women’s careers out of the second-rate zone — and give men equal cred as parents. After our episode on the Motherhood Penalty, her advice seems more relevant than ever. Listen as we revisit what Jodi had to say about upending the status quo, and why it will take men, women, (and employers) to make it happen.
It’s not your imagination — the Motherhood Penalty is real. Listen to real moms talk about real experiences. And get the not-so-surprising secret from Bright Horizons CHRO Maribeth Bearfield — that the very thing you feel might be holding you back (motherhood!) turns out to be your biggest asset.
Every podcast or webinar we do at Bright Horizons generates the same question: how does this work for single parents? So we asked. Join Helen and Christine, two working moms at Bright Horizons, as they talk single motherhood—what they’ve learned, what they wish they knew, and why parenting solo doesn’t have to mean going at it alone.
Anyone who’s done it will tell you—caring for an elder loved one is all-encompassing, especially when you’re in the Sandwich Generation. Where do you go to find in-home help? How do you manage finances? What’s the secret to having the tough conversations? Get expert answers to some of the most common caregiver questions.
On this episode of The Work-Life Equation: working parent, the sequel. You’ve had your first baby, you’ve got your whole work/parenting system down…and then number two comes along and changes everything. What do you need to know before the pitter-patter of a second pair of feet? Hear two-time working parents Erika, Evan, and Shira talk chaos, strategy…and why they wouldn’t change a thing.
On this episode of The Work-Life Equation: VP Moms. What does it take to rise up the ladder with a family? Helen, Ilene, Christine, and Jessie — four of our awesome Bright Horizons vice presidents — talk very candidly about what’s worked for them, what didn’t, and what they had to let go of to build the career and the family they wanted.
On this episode of The Work-Life Equation: building the parenting village you need. The secret to successful working parenthood isn’t doing more — it’s getting more done. And the way to get more done, says our guest Daisy Dowling, is to be fearless about enlisting pinch-hitters. Get Daisy’s tips for building your village, and for casting a wide enough net to get the help you need.
On this episode of The Work-Life Equation: the back-to-school shuffle! Are you ready for all that it entails: endless permission slips and school forms, book covers, parent-teacher meetings, homework, after-school schedules…and making lunch? Our guest, host of the Edit Your Life podcast Christine Koh, talks the mixed blessing of back-to-school season, and shares how you can manage the flood of obligations, along with practical tips for “editing your life” and “making room for awesome.”
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation: thinking about work-life “fit” — creating more time in your day to help you fit more of what you want into your life: family, work, or personal time. How? The secret, according to our guest, Morra Aarons-Mele, is in “place, pace, and space.” Listen as the host of the Forbes podcast “Hiding In the Bathroom” explains how she took charge of her own work-life equation…and how you can, too.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation: mindfulness. You’re knee-deep in work and family and feeling the chaos of everything that goes with it. What if you could stop in the moment and wrangle control of your inner turmoil before it eats you alive? Our guest Beth Jones says there’s a name for that – it’s called mindfulness. And she’s got tips to take you from “agghhh” to “ahhh” in a few simple steps.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation: twins! Can you be doubly blessed, and still have a career, and your sanity? Our guest says you can. Jessica Alpert Silber, mom of twins and creator of the WBUR children’s podcast Circle Round, shares her best twin survival strategies, and why surviving two crying babies might just be the best thing for a working mom’s career.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation: Peaceful Parenting 101. We’ve all been there…the get-out-the-door chaos, the after-work frenzy, those toddler-parent moments when things just seem to go, “kaboom.” Is there a better way? Parenting expert and psychologist Jennifer Gillette says unequivocally…yes. She’s got the tips, tricks, and strategies to tame the tantrums and put what she calls Peaceful Parenting back into your day.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation: millennial dads. What does fatherhood look like in 2018? Our very candid panel of modern working dads told us about stepping up as parents, dance classes on football Sundays, sharing the load with mom, redefining self-care, and “embracing the poop” in a job that’s harder – and more fun – than they ever imagined.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation: the “mental load”—the constant need to think about the family’s whereabouts. As a mom, you’re likely more than just a parent; you’re also the unofficial manager of everything your family is doing and when. Turns out, this is weighing many working women down. Here we present research from Bright Horizons showing the mental load is real, and offer tips on how to manage your own load...and maybe even lighten it up.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation: how to navigate parental leave. From the pre-leave side of the equation, working plus parenting can seem impossible. But Karen Rubin, managing director of employee coaching company Talking Talent has coached many employees on successfully navigating this important time. Here she offers important steps, from how to make the announcement, through the busy months leading up to taking leave, and how to reclaim your career when you come back.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation, learn why your health is good for the whole family. It’s not always easy to take care of yourself when you’re busy taking care of the family, but it’s important for everyone. Wellness expert Christina Reale tells us some of the realistic ways working parents can fit in nutrition, sleep, and exercise into their lives and how to pave the way to everyday health and happiness.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation, turn those parenting lemons into lemonade! It might not seem like it, but your child is more predictable than you think—and each stage of your child’s development, along with every meltdown, is a gateway to skill-building for your little one. Hear from early childhood experts Ellen Galinsky, the Chief Science Officer at the Bezos Family Foundation and Executive Director at Mind in the Making, and Rachel Robertson, the Education and Development Vice President at Bright Horizons as they discuss common parenting challenges and the science behind parenting that can turn frustration into great skills for life. Working Moms and the Mental Load Show Notes 1:01 - Learn about the motivation behind the Bright Horizons study on mental load. The full study results from the 2017 Modern Family Index put numbers to the issue. 1:23 - Read “The Default Parent” blog post by M. Blazoned. 2:43 - Ilene answers the question, “What was the high-level snapshot you got from the study?” ● 86 percent of working mothers handle all family and household responsibilities ● 76 percent of breadwinning moms manage the household vs. 22 percent of breadwinning dads 5:09 - Ilene describes how mental load plays out in her own life. 6:20 - Lisa posits one theory about mental load that explains how dads have tangible responsibilities and very specific tasks, but moms often shoulder all mental responsibilities, including all the things that need to be remembered. 9:15 - Lisa asks, “How can working moms lighten the mental load?” 9:44 - When thinking how to lighten the mental load, Ilene suggests two reflection questions: 1. Am I looking to solve the imbalance between myself and my partner? 2. Do I really want to share this load? (Which also means giving up decision-making.) 12:06 - Mental load affects new moms coming back to work from leave, which Bright Horizons discussed in a recent parent webinar, Life as a New Working Parent. 13:30 - Ilene says the research also shows dads want to be more involved in children’s lives, are more likely than moms to give up a raise for more family time, and more than ever interested in flexible working hours. Hear our conversation with today’s dads in podcast episode 16, “Talking Fatherhood with Millennial Dads.” 15:51 - Lisa talks about how millennial dads often feel like trailblazers, like the New York Mets player Daniel Murphy, who was criticized for taking paternity leave. 18:05 - Lisa makes the point that letting go is OK for moms to do, citing an article by Anne-Marie Slaughter, “The Real Holiday Magic Comes Not From Micromanaging, but Letting Go.” 18:47 - Lisa asks, “Can moms change or are they stuck being tiger moms?” Tiger moms are often characterized as keeping tight controls over their children or families. 22:15 - Lisa celebrates that working moms (and dads) are role models for their children, preparing the next generation for equality in parenting, as discussed in a previous podcast episode, Celebrating Working Mothers. 22:37 - Ilene does not believe in work-life balance that puts work on one side of the scale and parenting on the other side. Listen to the Bright Horizons webinar, Integrating Work and Life, to hear more about this dynamic. 23:43 - Follow this link to read or download the full study or search Modern Family Index on the Bright Horizons website, www.brighthorizons.com.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation, real working parents talk surviving the busy holiday season. From taming the “I wants” to surviving the “You need two dozen cupcakes…by when?!” and forgiving yourself for cranberry sauce from a can, Bright Horizons working moms Kate, Aili, Rachel, and Michelle share their real-life strategies for creating festive, satisfying holidays for their families…minus the guilt.
On this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we learn how to take back our countertops! Clutter seems to grow with children, moving steadily from bedrooms to playrooms until it creeps into every corner of your house. But it’s not hopeless. Mary Lou Andre, founder of Organization by Design, Inc., and editor of Dressing Well Online, offers tips, tricks, and advice on how to control kid-related clutter…so it doesn’t control you.
In this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we are celebrating the work of mothers and discussing why you should never feel guilty about a having career. Our guest, Pam Lenehan, is a director of three public companies and two non-profits, and author of My Mother, My Mentor, a book about how now-adult children thrived from having working mothers. Her research shows that the benefits of going to work every day go way beyond just bringing home a paycheck.
In this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we’re revisiting a webinar from the archives all about getting organized and family routines.Our guests Ruth, Megan, and Mary, Bright Horizons parents just like you, reveal their day-in-life routines, from heading out in the morning, to winding down in the evening, and getting ready for the next day Pick up a few tips from these working moms to help you corral a chaotic daily grind.
In this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we’re dispelling myths about working mothers and fathers and finding out how both can get the most from careers and families. Our guest Jodi Detjen, author of The Orange Line: Integrating Career, Family, and Life and professor at Suffolk University, shows how breaking out of gender stereotypes—and truly sharing the load—gives everyone more time and less stress.
In this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we revisit a webinar about new perspectives on old ideas on work-life balance. Our guest, Stew Friedman, Director of the Work/Life Integration Project at Wharton, discussed his book Leading the Life You Want: Skills for Integrating Work and Life, which guides working parents through an exploration of the most important areas of their lives and through strategies to harmonize those areas for meaningful work-life integration.
In this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we revisit a webinar about striking a balance between parenting, working, and the rest of your life. Drs. Marti and Erin Erickson, parenting experts and co-hosts of the Mom Enough podcast, tackle evergreen work-life issues, such as managing time, letting go, setting boundaries, and “good enough” parenting.
In this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we revisit a webinar about being a caregiver for your elderly parents from a distance—another city, state, or even country. Elder care expert Sharon Roth Maguire from BrightStar Care speaks to the pragmatic side of long distance caregiving, with actionable tips for managing everyday needs and responsibilities.
In this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we revisit a webinar about surviving the challenges of being in the Sandwich Generation, especially as a working parent. Elder care expert Noreen Guanci answers questions about organizing your family care plan, managing guilt, and balancing your time between work, parenting, and caregiving. Resources Mentioned ● Lotsa Helping Hands ● “Being Mortal” by Atul Gawande
In this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we revisit the parent webinar, Edit Your Life: Making Modern Family Life Work, featuring Christine Koh and Asha Dornfest, co-hosts of the Edit Your Life show, that covered the concept of “minimalist parenting.” Christine and Asha offered ideas for “editing your life” and making modern family life easier to manage.
In this episode of the Work-Life Equation, we talk to Sheila Murphy, co-founder of the professional staffing firm FlexProfessionals, LLC, about returning to work after parental leave or longer career breaks. Sheila provides guidance about the new realities of being a working parent for the first time and practical tips to help you feel confident about your return.