Work-Life Balance Confessions: Conversations & Advice on Finding a Balance That Works For You

Dalya Wittenberg
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  • Personal Journals

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed when juggling the competing demands of work and life, or if you’re simply curious about how others manage their time and priorities, then this is the podcast for you. Each episode covers the work-life balance confessions of people from all walks of life - in person or anonymously - with the purpose of celebrating individual approaches to pursuing balance, and learning from one another. Whatever your work or home commitments, finding the right blend to create a harmony that suits you is a fine balancing act. Join us to listen to stories and tips to enlighten and inspire.

  1. 62: On Part-Time Working Fatherhood, Perfectionism & Finding Balance With Cancer - Sam's Story

    May 20

    62: On Part-Time Working Fatherhood, Perfectionism & Finding Balance With Cancer - Sam's Story

    *THIS EPISODE, AND THE ACCOMPANYING SHOW NOTES, WERE ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN 2023 (SEASON 2: EPISODE 8). THE AUDIO HAS BEEN REMASTERED FOR ENHANCED SOUND QUALITY* This episode features former blog guest Sam Franklin, a father of two who works part-time as Head of Innovation Consulting in a global tech corporation. I published a write-up of my interview with Sam on International Men’s Day 2020, which felt fitting given that his take on work-life balance centred on empowering men to take ownership of how they choose to spend their time, both in and outside work. A vital part of that, he argued, was championing the role that men play in creating true equality with their female counterparts – particularly those with caring responsibilities. At the time of interviewing Sam, he had only recently become a father. Once he started navigating his company’s paternity leave policy, he realised that he was the first male employee in his organisation to challenge some of the rules and assumptions around working fathers taking an active childcare role at home. His paternity leave arrangement set a precedent in his corporate employer and he later went on to be offered a promotion, which he accepted only on the condition that it be a part-time role – allowing him to commit to spending one full day a week looking after his daughter. For Sam, this arrangement afforded him a true sense of balance. Now here we are, three years later, and I’m delighted to be hosting Sam on the podcast. His situation has drastically changed since 2020, both in his work and home life. And we get to that during this podcast episode. We also discover what a superpower it is not being a perfectionist, and how Sam's satisfaction with things being "good enough" has enabled him to pack in a remarkably busy career, volunteering commitments and home life. Sam's perspective of balancing work with everything else in life has been brought sharply into focus most recently due to his cancer diagnosis. His experience affords him a perspective that is a sobering reminder of how precious our time is, and how choosing how you spend it really matters. It is a great privilege to share this podcast episode as the final one of 2023, and indeed the final episode of Season 2 of my podcast. With new year’s resolutions traditionally on the mind at this time of year, I hope my dear listeners will find Sam’s life-affirming story a thought provoking and uplifting accompaniment to 2023 drawing to a close, and welcoming in 2024. To read more about this podcast episode and see the photo - as promised in the interview - of Sam sporting his batman onesie (and more), follow this link: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/12/18/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-season-2-episode-8-out-now/ You can read the blog post I wrote about Sam's work-life balance story back in 2020 here: https://a-fine-balance.com/2020/11/19/sams-story-fighting-the-good-fight-part-time-working-fatherhood-paternal-working-rights-and-living-with-cancer/

    1h 22m
  2. 61: On Life Purpose, Raising Teens & Finding Work-Life Balance When You're "The Strong One"

    May 8

    61: On Life Purpose, Raising Teens & Finding Work-Life Balance When You're "The Strong One"

    This episode features Jennifer Y Afriye - a business-owner and author of a book entitled Rest is the New Hustle. Our conversation delves into the purpose of life and work-life balance, exploring the existential questions and the impact of time management on personal growth and legacy. It emphasises the importance of fluidity and intentionality in managing time and setting priorities, as well as the significance of identifying key drivers of purpose and living with no regrets. We cover the themes of cultivating joy, recognising strengths and purpose, the impact of presence and intentionality, balancing peace, purpose, presence, and provision, and adapting to unexpected life changes. Insights are shared on navigating work-life balance, personal growth, and the impact of caregiving responsibilities on maintaining balance. This includes the importance of transparency and connection with children, the challenges of balancing caregiving and self-care, and the process of developing a work-life balance. Jennifer shares personal experiences and insights that highlight the significance of these themes in her life. Takeaways Fluidity in work-life balanceIntentionality in time management Cultivating joyRecognising strengths and purposeImpact of presence and intentionalityBalancing peace, purpose, presence, and provisionAdapting to unexpected life changesTransparency with childrenBalancing caregiving and self-careDeveloping a work-life balance Chapters 00:00 Intentional Time Management29:02 Purpose and Legacy36:32 Work-Life Balance and Childhood Influence42:28 Four P's of Life47:31 Life Changes and Adaptation59:38 Recalibrating After Burnout01:09:21 Balancing Work and Life

    1h 12m
  3. 60: On "Leaving the Ladder Down", Work-Life Balance for Working Parents & The Power of Therapy

    Apr 10

    60: On "Leaving the Ladder Down", Work-Life Balance for Working Parents & The Power of Therapy

    My guest this episode is Dolly Jones - former editor of Vogue and author of Leaving the Ladder Down: How to Combine Career and Motherhood, from the Women Who've Done it, described as a funny, practical and crucial guide for women facing the life-changing prospect of returning to work after having children. When Dolly agreed to come on the Work-Life Balance Confessions podcast, I expected we'd have plenty to talk about on the subject of navigating work-life balance as working mothers. And we did - a lot. But what I hadn't anticipated was that this episode would deliver some of the most hard-hitting, profound advice I've featured on this podcast, on a topic I haven't explored in nearly enough depth before: the transformative impact of therapy on work-life balance. Dolly has navigated work-life balance in some of the most demanding contexts imaginable - the fashion industry, the relentless pace of global online media, and later the solitary discipline of being a writer. Her insights are informed not only by her own experience of achieving work-life balance, but by interviews with dozens of women navigating the return to work after having children. She shares her insights on finding balance within a marriage, the impact of grief on work-life balance, the burnout that can follow traumatic life events, and the transformative role therapy played in regaining and maintaining work-life balance overall. Takeaways Leaving the ladder down - actively empowering the women behind you as you climb - can be a powerful tool for achieving work-life balance as a working mother, both for others and for yourselfTherapy is not just for crisis; used proactively, it is one of the most practical and transformative tools available to working parents seeking better work-life balanceGuilt and judgment - internal as much as external - are among the biggest barriers to work-life balance for working parents, and naming them is the first step RELATED EPISODES: 45: On Infertility Struggles, Undesired Childlessness, and How to Regain Balance and Find Your Purpose When You Find Yourself In Unexpected Circumstances: https://open.spotify.com/episode/39rxsuhudvR91mOFvMPv24?si=u-wdImeHRrWn_WAEuUTzvg 14: On Pride, Acceptance and Finding Balance by Parenting Equally While Working Full-Time: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1YPLrhoJhTGHRVNfftAsKS?si=eqn3LoOaQIe5M9DDaN6F3Q

    1h 31m
  4. 59: The Role That Sleep Can Play In Pursuit of Work-Life Balance - Work, Life, Balance Lesson #14

    Mar 27

    59: The Role That Sleep Can Play In Pursuit of Work-Life Balance - Work, Life, Balance Lesson #14

    The podcast episode explores the concept of work-life balance and the role of sleep in achieving this balance. It features personal stories, insights, and lessons from various individuals, highlighting the individualised nature of work-life balance and the impact of sleep on overall well-being. Takeaways Individualised approach to utilising sleep in pursuit of your work-life balanceThe impact of sleep on overall well-being Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Work-Life Balance10:04 Personal Stories and Insights20:33 Balancing Sleep and Other Priorities42:22 Managing Passions and Sleep LINKS TO REFERENCED BLOG POSTS AND PODCAST EPISODES: Night Time, My Time: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/01/19/night-time-my-time/ 31: Finding Balance When You’re Single and Looking for Love – Katie’s Story: https://a-fine-balance.com/2024/09/02/finding-balance-when-youre-single-and-looking-for-love-katies-story-new-podcast-episode-out-today/ 57: On Defining Success, Learning from Adversity & Regaining Balance by Asking Two Key Questions - Erika's Story: https://a-fine-balance.com/2026/02/21/season-5-has-begun-kicking-off-with-episode-1-on-defining-success-learning-from-adversity-regaining-balance-by-asking-two-key-questions/ 49: On Accountancy, Regaining Balance After Heartbreak, and the Power of a Good Night’s Sleep - Victoria's Story: https://a-fine-balance.com/2025/06/09/on-accountancy-regaining-balance-after-heartbreak-and-the-power-of-a-good-nights-sleep-new-podcast-episode-out-now/ 8: On Finding Balance in Retirement - Tom's Story: https://a-fine-balance.com/2022/06/18/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-episode-8-out-now/ 28: Tips on How to Create a Morning Routine That Enhances Your Work-Life Balance: Work, Life, Balance Lesson #5: https://a-fine-balance.com/2024/06/30/tips-on-how-to-create-a-morning-routine-that-enhances-your-work-life-balance-work-life-balance-lesson-5-new-podcast-episode-out-now/ 44: Time-Management Tips to Improve Your Work-Life Balance - https://a-fine-balance.com/2025/04/07/time-management-tips-to-improve-your-work-life-balance-new-podcast-episode-out-today/

    25 min
  5. 58: On Balancing a Corporate Job With Creative Pursuits, Boundary-Setting & Cultural Influences

    Mar 6

    58: On Balancing a Corporate Job With Creative Pursuits, Boundary-Setting & Cultural Influences

    My guest this episode is Urmi Hossain, who prides herself on balancing two distinct sides of her work-life balance equation: her 9-5 and her 5-9. Our conversation explores the concept of work-life balance and Urmi's unique approach of balancing her corporate job with her creative pursuits. It delves into the influence of culture, family, and personal values on work-life balance, as well as the importance of setting boundaries and time management. Urmi shares her journey of finding fulfilment and balance in her career and personal life. She discusses the influence of immigrant parents, the importance of enjoying life, and the realization that there's more to life than a 9 to 5 job. She emphasizes the value of learning, self-compassion, and finding joy in simplicity. Takeaways Boundary SettingCultural Influence Immigrant parents often invest in their children's education and success, hoping to fulfil dreams they were unable to achieve.Finding fulfilment in life involves more than just a profession and education; it's about enjoying oneself and finding value in personal growth and learning.Self-discipline, intention, and motivation are key factors in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. OTHER EPISODES OF INTEREST: 47: On Legacy, Purpose, and Finding Work-Life Balance When You're Working as a Politician and Elected Official: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/47-on-legacy-purpose-and-finding-work-life-balance/id1570430336?i=1000708486885 6:"Single & Childfree by Choice". On Boundary-Setting and Doing What Makes You Happy: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/6-single-childfree-by-choice-on-boundary-setting-doing/id1570430336?i=1000553872664 Chapters 00:00 Balancing Corporate Job and Creative Pursuits10:25 Influence of Culture and Family on Work-Life Balance18:11 Setting Boundaries and Managing Time Effectively27:21 Freedom of Choice and Education32:26 Balancing Work and Personal Life39:33 Discipline, Intention, and Motivation49:11 Work-Life Ratio and Fulfillment

    53 min
  6. 57: On Defining Success, Learning From Adversity & Regaining Balance by Asking Two Key Questions

    Feb 13

    57: On Defining Success, Learning From Adversity & Regaining Balance by Asking Two Key Questions

    In this episode, featuring Erika Coleman, Erika shares insights from her mentor and personal experiences, highlighting the transformative power of adversity. The conversation delves into the importance of seeking balance in relationships, setting boundaries, experiencing burnout, managing panic attacks, and the role of religion, community, and well-being in achieving balance. Key takeaways include: Valuing quality over quantity in relationships and recognizing the need for balance in various aspects of life;The exploration of work-life balance through the A Fine Balance 'Three Pillars of Balance' model;The impact of overachievement and burnout, grief and mental well-being;The role of sleep in balance;Confronting mortality and balance, and setting priorities and intention.The valuable lessons learned from difficult circumstances and the importance of self-reflection and self-compassion. Episodes Referenced: 10: On Finding Balance in Grief, Being a High-Achiever & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome-Katie's Storyhttps://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/10-on-finding-balance-in-grief-being-a-high/id1570430336?i=1000602674042 34: Work, Life, Balance Self-Assessment: a Tool for Reflecting on Your Personal Pursuit of Balance https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/34-work-life-balance-self-assessment-a-tool-for/id1570430336?i=100067839944147: On Legacy, Purpose, and Finding Work-Life Balance When You're Working as a Politician and Elected Official https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/47-on-legacy-purpose-and-finding-work-life-balance/id1570430336?i=100070848688548: The Pursuit of Balance When You're Grieving - Work, Life, Balance Lesson #13 https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/48-the-pursuit-of-balance-when-youre-grieving-work/id1570430336?i=1000710242124 Chapters 00:00 Exploring Work-Life Balance07:14 Grief and Mental Well-being14:32 Confronting Mortality and Balance24:21 Setting Priorities and Intention54:39 Seeking Balance in Relationships01:04:15 Managing Panic Attacks and Techniques for Coping01:10:21 Religion, Community, and Well-Being

    1h 19m
  7. 56: Rebrand Announcement for 2026 and Welcome to Season Five

    Jan 23

    56: Rebrand Announcement for 2026 and Welcome to Season Five

    This short solo episode welcomes listeners back to the podcast in 2026 and shares the exciting update about the podcast's rebrand: what's changing, what's not changing, and why. We cover: Why I'm bringing the "confessional" aspect of the podcast to the forefront.Why the term "work-life balance" isn't such a 'dirty word' after all.And how this rebrand aims to make the podcast easier for new listeners to find. Listeners are invited to vote for their favourite new podcast cover art. Get in touch in the usual ways to have your say! The first Work-Life Balance Confessions episode of Season 5 is coming soon so subscribe to be notified when new episodes are ready to download.

    11 min
  8. 55: BONUS EPISODE: Review of 2025

    12/23/2025

    55: BONUS EPISODE: Review of 2025

    In this conversation, I look back over the personal stories and insights from various guests throughout 2025. The episode covers challenges such as overwhelm, grief, and neurodiversity, while also providing practical tips for enhancing balance. Key themes include the importance of gratitude, the impact of perfectionism, and the necessity of sleep in achieving a harmonious life. The conversation emphasizes that finding balance is a personal journey, shaped by individual experiences and choices. Takeaways Work-life balance is a personal journey that varies for everyone. Gratitude can significantly improve your work-life balance. Overwhelm and burnout are common challenges in maintaining balance. Neurodiversity presents unique challenges to achieving work-life balance. Feeling underwhelmed at work can be as detrimental as burnout. Practical tips, like time management and sleep, are essential for balance. Perfectionism can skew your sense of balance in life. Sharing personal experiences at work can foster understanding and support. Grief can profoundly impact one's ability to maintain balance. The three pillars model of individuality, fluidity, and intentionality is a helpful framework. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Work-Life Balance Challenges 11:56 Personal Stories of Overwhelm 13:53 Infertility and Work-Life Balance 14:02 Grief and Its Impact on Balance 20:53 Financial Pressures on Work-Life Balance 22:11 Neurodiversity and Individual Needs 23:17 Feeling Underwhelmed at Work 24:19 Practical Tips for Enhancing Balance 29:03 The Three Pillars Model of Balance 31:45 Finding Balance as a Journey Keywords work-life balance, personal stories, overwhelm, grief, neurodiversity, fulfillment, practical tips, sleep, perfectionism, lessons learned

    33 min
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If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed when juggling the competing demands of work and life, or if you’re simply curious about how others manage their time and priorities, then this is the podcast for you. Each episode covers the work-life balance confessions of people from all walks of life - in person or anonymously - with the purpose of celebrating individual approaches to pursuing balance, and learning from one another. Whatever your work or home commitments, finding the right blend to create a harmony that suits you is a fine balancing act. Join us to listen to stories and tips to enlighten and inspire.

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