Work It Like A Mum

Elizabeth Willetts

How do I know if I'm ready to return to work after maternity leave? Can I *really* make all the pick-ups, drop-offs AND get to work on time? Am I ready for that promotion? How do I balance managing a large team and demanding kids? Is now the right time to start my own business? Can I flourish in a part-time job? And the biggest question of all, can I *really* have it all? Whether you're returning to work after your first maternity leave or juggling a high-flying career with teenagers that won't do their homework, this is the show for you.Work It Like A Mum is a new podcast giving you a weekly dose of inspiration, confidence, and step-by-step tips (plus lots of comradery) to help you flourish in your career after kids. Hosted by the Founder of Investing in Women, Elizabeth Willetts, we chat with remarkable women redefining our working world. They'll share their secrets on how they've achieved extraordinary things after children, set boundaries and balance, challenges they've faced (and how they've overcome them) to define their own versions of success. Every episode is brimming with ideas, tools, hints and tips you can put straight into practice so you, too, can have a career you adore. We cover it all - with raw honesty and a few laughs to ensure you are seen, heard, promoted and hired - whilst keeping your sanity at home! Listen now to get all the inspiration you need to Work It Like A Mum.

  1. 3 days ago

    Gaining Career Clarity: How to Define What You Really Want Next

    In this week’s episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, we’re sharing the first session from our Momentum Career Summer Series, designed to help women build clarity, confidence, and keep their careers moving forward. Elizabeth is joined by Kim Holland, a career pivot coach with 12 years’ experience, to explore how to get unstuck, understand what you really want from your career and start figuring out what comes next.  What we cover:  Why jumping straight onto job boards could be keeping you stuck.  The biggest barriers to career change – fear, confidence, finances and flexibility.  How to uncover your professional DNA and what really matters to you.  Why a career change does not mean starting again.  Practical exercises to help you get clear on what you want next.  How to focus on what you’re moving towards, not just what you want to leave behind. Key takeaways: Clarity comes before applications – know what you’re looking for first.  You have more transferable skills and experience than you might realise.  Your next move doesn’t need to solve your entire career.  Think about the work that will fulfil you, then explore how flexibility can fit around it.  A good next step simply moves you further from what you don’t want and closer to what you do want. Why listen: If you know something needs to change but have no idea what you want next, this episode will help you cut through the noise, recognise the value you already bring and start moving forward with greater clarity and confidence. Show Links: Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn here Connect with Kim on LinkedIn here Visit Kim’s website here  Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount. Support the show Sign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode! Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here.  And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

  2. 30 Jul

    Why You're Not Failing at Parenting This Summer (Even If It Feels Like You Are) ⭐

    The summer holidays can feel like a juggling act. You're balancing work, childcare, endless to-do lists, and the pressure to make every day magical... all while trying not to feel guilty. In this week's episode of Work It Like a Mum, Elizabeth is joined by parental coach Giulia Galli for a reassuring and practical conversation about navigating the summer holidays with more confidence and less pressure.  Together, they explore why so many parents feel overwhelmed, how to let go of perfection, and the small mindset shifts that can make family life feel calmer and more enjoyable.  What We Cover: Why the school holidays feel so overwhelming for working parentsHow your mindset can shape your experience of the summerThe difference between helpful guilt and harmful guiltWhy understanding your parenting values changes everythingHow to stop comparing your family to what you see on social mediaSharing the invisible mental load and communicating better with your partnerPractical tips for surviving—and even enjoying—the summer holidaysHow to prepare for returning to work after the holidays or a career breakKey Takeaways: You don't need to be a perfect parent—just an intentional one.Guilt often comes from acting in ways that don't align with your values.Children don't need perfection; they need connection, consistency and presence.Taking time for yourself isn't selfish—it's essential.Preparing for the unexpected is often more valuable than trying to control everything.Comparison steals joy. Focus on what works for your family.Why You Should Listen: If you've ever felt like you're juggling work, family and the pressure to do it all, this episode is for you. Packed with practical advice and reassuring insights, Giulia shares simple mindset shifts to help you let go of guilt, embrace imperfection and enjoy the school holidays with greater confidence and calm. It's an uplifting conversation that every working parent can relate to. Show Notes: Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn here Connect with Giulia on LinkedIn here Book a session with Giulia here  Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount. Support the show Sign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode! Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here.  And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

  3. 16 Jul

    From Employee to Employer: How to Build a Business Without Starting Again

    In this episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, Elizabeth Willetts is joined by Rebecca Newenham, founder of Get Ahead, to explore what it really takes to go from employee to business owner. Together, they discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, the benefits of franchising, and how women can build a flexible business without starting from scratch. Whether you're dreaming of running your own business or simply curious about your options, this episode is packed with practical advice, honest insights and encouragement.  What We Cover:  The journey from employee to entrepreneur  Starting a business without building everything yourself  Franchising vs starting a business from scratch  The mindset shifts needed for business ownership  Why flexibility means different things to different people  Balancing business growth with family life  Common misconceptions about franchising  The importance of networking, coaching and community  Managing fear, uncertainty and financial risk  How to know if business ownership is right for you Key Takeaways:  Business ownership doesn't have to mean doing everything alone.  Franchising can offer freedom with the support of a proven model.  Flexibility is one of the biggest motivations for starting a business.  Building a strong network is essential for long-term success.  Coaching and mentoring can accelerate business growth.  Fear of failure shouldn't stop you from exploring new opportunities.  Focus on your strengths and outsource the rest where possible.  Community and collaboration are powerful tools for entrepreneurs.  There isn't one right way to build a successful business.  Small, consistent steps often lead to the biggest career changes. Why Listen: If you've ever wondered whether running your own business could give you the flexibility and fulfilment you're looking for, this episode is for you. Whether you're considering a franchise, exploring self-employment, or simply looking for a career that fits around your life, you'll come away with practical advice, honest reflections and the confidence to explore what's possible. Show Notes:  Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn here Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn here Visit the Get Ahead website here  Support the show Sign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode! Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here.  And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

  4. 9 Jul

    Navigating Fertility at Work: Breaking the Silence

    In this week's episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, we sit down with HR leader, accredited coach and fertility specialist Kali Crow to discuss one of the most overlooked workplace challenges: navigating fertility treatment whilst building a career. Drawing on both her professional expertise and personal experience of IVF, Kali shares practical advice, honest reflections and compassionate guidance for anyone experiencing fertility challenges, pregnancy loss or reproductive health issues.  What we cover:  Kali's journey into fertility coaching  The impact of fertility treatment on careers, confidence and mental wellbeing  Practical ways to manage work alongside IVF and treatment  Setting boundaries and building the right support network  Coaching vs counselling  How employers can better support employees experiencing fertility challenges  The Fertility Workplace Pledge and why it matters. Key takeaways: 💜 You're not alone, and you don't have to navigate fertility treatment alone. 💜 The right support can make a huge difference to your wellbeing and career. 💜 Employers can create more inclusive workplaces through greater awareness, empathy and practical support. Why listen: Whether you're going through fertility treatment, supporting someone who is, or want to become a more compassionate leader, this episode is packed with practical advice, honest conversation and valuable insights that every workplace should hear. Show Notes: Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn here Connect with Kali on LinkedIn here Visit Kali’s coaching website here  Visit Bateswell’s website here  Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount. Support the show Sign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode! Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here.  And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

  5. 2 Jul

    Your Rights at Work: The Employment Law Changes You Need to Know

    In this week's episode of the Work It Like a Mum podcast, Elizabeth Willetts is joined by employment lawyer and founder of Thrive Law,  Jodie Hill, to unpack the biggest changes coming to UK employment law and what they mean for both employees and employers. From day one rights and flexible working reforms to maternity protections, statutory sick pay and emerging workplace responsibilities around menopause and family leave, this episode provides practical guidance on how the new Employment Rights Act could reshape the future of work. Whether you're an employee wanting to understand your rights or an employer preparing for upcoming legislation, this conversation is packed with insights and actionable advice.  What We Cover: The biggest employment law changes coming to the UK New rights around unfair dismissal claims Changes to sick pay and zero-hours contracts How employers can prepare for new legislation Why manager training matters more than ever The truth about flexible working rights What employers can and can't refuse New protections for parents returning to work Understanding KIT days and maternity rights Miscarriage leave and workplace support Menopause action plans and best practice When and how to seek legal adviceKey Takeaways: Employment rights are expanding significantly Proactive employers will be better prepared Flexible working needs collaboration and trust Policies matter, but managers matter more Better support creates better workplaces Know your rights and seek advice early Good employment practices improve retention Inclusion and well-being go hand in hand Legal support is often more accessible than you think Small changes can make a big difference at workWhy Listen: Whether you're navigating flexible working, returning from parental leave or simply want to understand your rights at work, this episode is packed with practical advice. For employers and people leaders, it's a useful guide to preparing for upcoming legal changes and building more supportive workplaces. Show Links: Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn here Connect with Jodie on LinkedIn here Visit Thrive Law’s website here  From Compliance to Culture: Responding to Employment Law Changes Employment Figure Changes 2026 Is Your Organisation Ready for Unfair Dismissal Rights? Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount. Support the show Sign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode! Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here.  And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

  6. 25 Jun

    What Employers Really Gain When They Invest in Women at Work

    In this special episode of Work It Like a Mum, we're sharing the eighth session from our Give to Gain Summit, hosted in support of International Women's Day. In this insightful and thought-provoking conversation, Elizabeth Willetts is joined by Lucinda Hewitt Coleman, Senior Talent Operations Manager at Oxera, to explore what employers really gain when they invest in women at work. Drawing on her extensive experience in talent operations and people strategy, Lucinda shares why flexibility, inclusion and career development are not just the right thing to do, but a powerful business advantage. Together, they discuss the realities women continue to navigate at work, the importance of values-led leadership, and how organisations can create environments where everyone can thrive. What We Cover:  Why conversations around equity and inclusion still matter  The confidence gap and hidden challenges women face at work  The impact of mental load and caregiving responsibilities  Making flexibility work for both employers and employees  Building trust, transparency and inclusive workplace cultures  The business benefits of investing in women  What organisations risk losing when inclusion isn't prioritised  The role of fair recruitment and values-led leadership  Understanding the realities of modern working lives  Reasons to feel optimistic about the future of work Key Takeaways:  Equity requires ongoing commitment and action  Confidence and mental load continue to affect women's careers  Flexibility works best when built on trust and communication  Investing in women improves talent attraction, retention and engagement  Diverse teams drive stronger business performance  Culture and leadership matter as much as policies  Fair and inclusive practices create better outcomes for everyone  Understanding employees' experiences supports wellbeing and success  Values-led organisations are better equipped to attract top talent  Future generations are helping drive positive workplace changeWhy Listen: If you're an employer, people leader or professional interested in creating more inclusive workplaces, this episode offers valuable insights into the real business impact of investing in women. You'll gain practical perspectives on flexibility, talent retention, workplace culture and why supporting women at work benefits both individuals and organisations. Show Links: Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn here Connect with Lucinda on LinkedIn here Visit Oxera’s website here  Explore and download the full Women At Work Survey here Support the show Sign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode! Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here.  And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

  7. 18 Jun

    Stop Shrinking – Owning Your Value in a System Not Built for You

    In this special episode of Work It Like a Mum, we're sharing the seventh session from our Give to Gain Summit, hosted in support of International Women's Day. In this empowering and practical conversation, career advancement coach Leanne Cooper explores why so many women feel overlooked, undervalued and underpaid, and what it really takes to own your value with confidence. Drawing on her own experiences and the lessons she's learned supporting thousands of women, Leanne shares practical strategies to help women stop shrinking their ambitions, advocate for themselves more effectively and step forward with greater confidence in their careers. What We Cover: Why confidence often takes a hit after career breaks and major life changesThe hidden ways women shrink their ambitions and hold themselves backHow to rebuild self-belief and reconnect with your strengthsWhy confidence comes from action, not waiting until you feel readyThe importance of recognising your achievements and impactHow to stop relying on external validationReframing career breaks, flexibility and life experiences as strengthsOwning your story and communicating your value with confidencePractical strategies for flexible working conversations and career progressionHow to advocate for yourself without apologyKey Takeaways: Confidence is built through action and repetitionCareer breaks do not diminish your value or capabilityYour relationship with yourself influences every career decision you makeAchievements, strengths and impact should be actively recognised and celebratedFlexible working is a professional conversation, not a favourWomen often underestimate the value they bring to organisationsThe stories we tell ourselves shape the opportunities we pursuePractising how you communicate your value builds confidence and credibilitySelf-belief grows when you stop waiting for permission and start taking actionOwning your value is essential for career growth and fulfilmentWhy Listen: If you've ever questioned your worth, held yourself back from opportunities, struggled with confidence after a career break or found it difficult to advocate for yourself at work, this episode offers practical tools and empowering advice to help you step forward with confidence and own your value. Show Links: Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn here Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn here Visit Leanne’s website here  Explore and download the full Women At Work Survey here Support the show Sign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode! Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here.  And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

  8. 11 Jun

    Building Work That Works for You – The Rise of Female Entrepreneurship

    In this special episode of Work It Like a Mum, we're sharing the sixth session from our Give to Gain Summit, hosted in support of International Women's Day. In this inspiring and honest panel discussion, female founders and business leaders explore why more women are choosing entrepreneurship, what it really takes to build a sustainable business, and how creating work on your own terms can unlock greater flexibility, confidence and fulfilment. Featuring founders from HR, finance, technology and community-building businesses, this conversation dives into the realities of self-employment, the challenges women face in traditional workplaces, and the opportunities that come from building businesses designed around real life. What We Cover: Why more women are walking away from traditional employmentThe real reasons women start businessesFlexibility, freedom and the realities behind entrepreneurshipThe biggest risks founders face (and how to manage them)Building a business around your life, not the other way aroundFinancial confidence, pricing and knowing your worthThe challenges of isolation, resilience and self-beliefCreating a sustainable business that can grow with youHow AI and changing workplaces are reshaping opportunitiesPractical advice for women considering self-employmentKey Takeaways: Entrepreneurship is often about freedom, not escaping ambitionFlexibility should support your life, not create new pressuresConfidence grows through doing, not waiting until you're readyFinancial planning is essential before making the leapCharging your worth is critical for long-term successStrong networks can help combat isolation and accelerate growthValues-led businesses can be both profitable and fulfillingWomen are creating businesses that reflect real-life needsThe future of work will demand adaptability, visibility and human connectionSuccess isn't one-size-fits-all — define it on your own termsWhy Listen: If you've ever wondered whether traditional employment is still right for you, dreamed about starting your own business, or wanted more flexibility and control over your working life, this conversation offers practical advice, honest experiences and inspiring insights from women who have successfully built businesses around their lives. Show Links: Connect with  Elizabeth Willetts on LinkedIn here Visit Thread HR’s website here  Visit Flockhere’s website here  Visit Wainwright Consulting's website here  Explore and download the full Women At Work Survey here Boost your career with Investing in Women's Career Coaching! Get expert CV, interview, and LinkedIn guidance tailored for all career stages. Navigate transitions, discover strengths, and reach goals with our personalised approach. Book now for your dream job! Use 'workitlikeamum' for a 10% discount. Support the show Sign up for our newsletter and never miss an episode! Follow us on Instagram. Join over 1 million customers and counting who are saving money on their household bills with Utility Warehouse. Discover how much you can save here.  And here's your invite to our supportive and empowering Facebook Group, Work It Like a Mum - a supportive and safe networking community for professional working mothers. Our community is full of like-minded female professionals willing to offer support, advice or a friendly ear. See you there!

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About

How do I know if I'm ready to return to work after maternity leave? Can I *really* make all the pick-ups, drop-offs AND get to work on time? Am I ready for that promotion? How do I balance managing a large team and demanding kids? Is now the right time to start my own business? Can I flourish in a part-time job? And the biggest question of all, can I *really* have it all? Whether you're returning to work after your first maternity leave or juggling a high-flying career with teenagers that won't do their homework, this is the show for you.Work It Like A Mum is a new podcast giving you a weekly dose of inspiration, confidence, and step-by-step tips (plus lots of comradery) to help you flourish in your career after kids. Hosted by the Founder of Investing in Women, Elizabeth Willetts, we chat with remarkable women redefining our working world. They'll share their secrets on how they've achieved extraordinary things after children, set boundaries and balance, challenges they've faced (and how they've overcome them) to define their own versions of success. Every episode is brimming with ideas, tools, hints and tips you can put straight into practice so you, too, can have a career you adore. We cover it all - with raw honesty and a few laughs to ensure you are seen, heard, promoted and hired - whilst keeping your sanity at home! Listen now to get all the inspiration you need to Work It Like A Mum.

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