Ambitious and Balanced Working Moms

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m talking directly to the working mom who’s thinking, “I cannot do another year like this.” We’re diving into what it really looks like to take back ownership of your life in 2026, not through hustle or perfect systems, but through three grounded shifts that bring clarity, confidence, and control. If you want next year to feel calmer, more intentional, and less reactive, this episode will help you see exactly where to start and what to stop tolerating Topics in this episode: Taking full ownership of how 2026 feels instead of blaming circumstances Getting clear on what actually matters to you in this season of motherhood and work Learning how to redirect unhelpful inner dialogue and choose more supportive thoughts Focusing only on what you can control and letting go of the rest Making your yes and no intentional so your calendar reflects your real priorities Show Notes & References:   Boundaries & Balance Holiday Strategy Call:   www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/boundaries-and-balance-session  Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

Follow the show:Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Everywhere else In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m breaking down the three deeply rooted patterns that quietly lead ambitious working moms straight into burnout — the ones you don’t even recognize because they feel so normal. I walk you through why these patterns show up, how they drain your energy and joy, and what needs to shift if you want 2026 to feel calmer, more spacious, and actually aligned with your priorities. If you’ve been ending your days exhausted or feeling like you’re carrying the world on your shoulders, this episode will help you finally understand why — and what to do about it next.Topics in this episode:The real reason burnout builds without you noticing The 3 patterns keeping working moms overwhelmed How mindset + emotion shape your daily habits Why changing a few core beliefs unlocks real balance What you must shift in 2026 to feel present, rested, and in controlShow Notes & References:Sign up for the New Year Reset here:  www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/2026-reset Grab your FREE Daily Kickstart here:  www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/daily-kickstart Boundaries & Balance Holiday Strategy Call:  www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/boundaries-and-balance-session Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

Follow the show:Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Everywhere else In this week's episode of the podcast, I’m diving deep into the truth of your 2025 and why so many working moms are closer to burnout than they realize — not because of dramatic moments, but because of the small, daily “fender benders” we’ve learned to brush off.I share the three subtle signs that burnout is on the horizon, why your brain resists change (even the change you want), and how to set yourself up for a completely different 2026. If you’ve been stretched thin, craving presence, or quietly wondering if you can keep going like this…this episode is the reset you didn’t know you needed. Topics in this episode:The three overlooked signs that burnout is approaching Why your current pace of success may not be one you actually chose The presence problem — when your brain and body are never in the same place How skipping or overriding your own “me time” leads straight to exhaustion Why urgency sparks change — and how to use it to reset before 2026 Show Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg  Book a Boundaries & Balance Session: www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/boundaries-and-balance-session Ready to start 2026 feeling grounded, intentional, and in control? Join the New Year Reset: www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/2026-reset

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m breaking down why your long to-do list isn’t actually the problem. We tend to make that growing list mean we’re behind, failing, or not doing enough — but what if it’s actually a sign of something really good?  In this episode, I share four reframes that completely shift the way you interpret your to-do list so you can stop starting your day in stress mode and instead feel grounded, capable, and fully in the driver’s seat again. If you ever look at your list and immediately feel overwhelmed, you’re going to want to listen to this one.  Topics in this episode:Why your to-do list is neutral — and the meaning you attach to it isn’t The four reframes that instantly reduce stress and overwhelm How a long to-do list can signal demand, growth, challenge, and ambition Why starting your day with overwhelm leads to poor decisions and burnout How to shift into strategic thinking, focus, and control no matter the season  Show Notes & References:Book your Boundaries & Balance: Holiday Clarity Call here:  www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/boundaries-and-balance-session   Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m talking with my client Amanda about what it really looks like to stay committed to balance even when it feels like nothing is changing. She shares her journey of re-entering the workforce full-time, the fear of slipping back into old habits, the quiet months where progress felt invisible, and the moment everything finally clicked — leading to less stress, more confidence, and even a surprise promotion. If you’ve ever wondered whether consistency actually pays off, or worried that maybe balance just won’t “work” for you, this episode will give you so much hope and clarity.  Topics in this episode:How Amanda navigated old habits, imposter syndrome, and a major career transition Why consistency, not perfection, is what shifts balance The power of being in a room with other ambitious working moms How foundational tools can actually change your day What happens after the program and why some breakthroughs take time to surface  Show Notes & References:Book your Boundaries & Balance: Holiday Clarity Call here:  www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/boundaries-and-balance-session   Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free clarity call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg 

Follow the show:Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Everywhere else  In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m exploring what happens when your old definition of success no longer fits your life as a mom. Before kids, success might’ve meant promotions, achievements, and productivity, but now that version just leaves you feeling like you’re always behind. I share client stories and practical tools to help you redefine success in a way that aligns with your values and season of life, so you can finally feel fulfilled, calm, and proud of how you’re spending your time.  Topics in this episode:Why your old definition of success doesn’t work anymore How success and balance are connected Client stories that illustrate new, sustainable definitions of success Simple ways to create an attainable version of success How to use your values and goals as a daily guideShow Notes & References:Book your Boundaries & Balance: Holiday Clarity Call here:  www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/boundaries-and-balance-session  Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

In this week’s BONUS episode of the podcast, I’m breaking down how to do the holidays differently this year. Instead of slipping into the usual cycle of guilt, overcommitment, and exhaustion, I’m showing you how to lead yourself through the season—with intention, courage, and calm. You’ll learn how to set a clear vision for what you want this holiday to feel like, how to stand strong when family expectations pile on, and how to stay grounded no matter how busy things get. If you’re ready for a joyful, peaceful holiday (without the overwhelm), this episode is for you. Topics in this episode:Lead your holiday season with intention, not reaction Why courage, not people pleasing, creates meaningful traditions How calm leadership transforms stressful moments into connection The mindset shifts that help you say yes and no with confidence What to expect from the Boundaries & Balance: Holiday Clarity Call Show Notes & References:Book your Boundaries & Balance: Holiday Clarity Call here:  www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/boundaries-and-balance-session Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

Today, I sat down with my client Jean, a professor and mom of two, who shares what it was like to work with me first 1-1 coaching and then in the Ambitious & Balanced group coaching program. She opens up about hitting rock bottom after a personal loss, rediscovering her values, setting boundaries that actually stick, and learning to say no without guilt. We talk about the difference between therapy and coaching, the power of community, and how real transformation happens when clarity and accountability come together. This one is full of honesty, hope, and so many lightbulb moments for every working mom who wants to feel calm, confident, and in control again.  Topics in this episode:How clarity on your core values transforms every decision you make The difference between therapy and coaching (and how both can help) The power of community and accountability in the group program Practical tools for work-life balance What investing in yourself really means—and how it pays offShow Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call Book your Boundaries & Balance: Holiday Clarity Call here: www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/boundaries-and-balance-session Start your mornings feeling clear and focused — download The Daily Kickstart here: www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/daily-kickstart You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

Today, I’m flipping the script on one of the biggest mindset traps working moms fall into - the belief that work and family are at odds with each other. What if that tension you feel isn’t a sign that something’s wrong but proof that you’re living a full, meaningful life? I’ll show you how to reframe that tug-of-war into one of your greatest teachers, helping you sharpen focus, build confidence, and make decisions that lead to a no-regrets kind of life.  Topics in this episode:The truth about the “competing priorities” mindset and why it’s holding you back How reframing work vs. family tension can actually strengthen both Four reasons your career and motherhood work together, not against each other Real client stories, who found peace and focus through this reframe Why mindset work is the foundation of sustainable work-life balanceShow Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Book your free breakthrough call here:  www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/book You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

In this week's episode, I’m talking about something every working mom can relate to—ending the day completely wiped out. You give everything at work and have nothing left for your family or yourself. In this episode, I share 3 simple but powerful practices that will help you end your day feeling lighter, calmer, and more present. You’ll learn how to transition intentionally from work to home, release built-up emotions throughout the day, and get ahead of predictable stress triggers so you stop running on empty and finally reclaim your energy and evenings.  Topics in this episode:The hidden energy drain of daily context switching and how to create a “work-to-home” transition Why emotional buildup leads to evening exhaustion—and how to release it in minutes How to spot and solve predictable stress triggers before they take over your day The truth about burnout and why exhaustion is not “just a season” How these small daily practices give you back time, energy, and presenceShow Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg  Invite me to speak at your next event or workshop:  www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/speaker

In this week’s episode of the Ambitious and Balanced Working Moms Podcast, I’m digging into one of the most toxic and sneaky thought patterns that keeps working moms stuck — what I call the “no possibility mindset.” You know that feeling when it seems like there’s no way out of your current season, job, or chaos? That’s it. In this episode, I share how to spot this mindset, why it drains your energy and blocks solutions, and how to flip it so you can start seeing options and taking action again. I tell stories from my clients and my own life (including a parenting struggle that had me questioning everything) to show how powerful it is when you shift into possibility — and what happens when you believe that change is possible.  Topics in this episode:What the “no possibility mindset” sounds like — and why it’s so toxic Real client stories that reveal how this mindset keeps you stuck How believing in possibility opens up new ideas, energy, and confidence Simple mindset shifts that get you moving againShow Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call Download your FREE Daily Kickstart here: www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/daily-kickstart You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

In this week's episode of the podcast, I’m joined by Alison Fragale, as we tackle the deceptively simple but life-changing question: What do I really want? If you’ve ever felt stuck, second-guessed your desires, or wondered what’s next for your career and life, this episode will give you clarity and direction. We share why it’s so hard for working moms to answer this question, the cultural and personal reasons behind that struggle, and the exact process I use with clients to uncover their true desires and build a regret-free life. You’ll walk away feeling empowered, grounded, and ready to take your next steps with confidence.  Topics in this episode:Why figuring out “what do I want?” feels so confusing for ambitious working moms How culture, motherhood, and people-pleasing disconnect us from our true desires The difference between want and desire—and why desire matters more The “internal compass” process: values, identity, and purpose as your North Star Real client stories of clarity, decisive action, and living without regretShow Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg  Download your FREE Daily Kickstart here:  www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/daily-kickstart  Connect with Alison:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/alisonfragale/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/alisonfragale Free Gift for Listeners: https://alisonfragale.substack.com/

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m diving into one of the trickiest yet most important questions every ambitious working mom faces: “What do I really want?” If you’ve ever felt stuck, disconnected, or like your choices have been more about walking through doors that opened rather than creating your own path, this episode will help you shift. I share why this question feels so overwhelming, what keeps us from knowing our own desires, and the powerful process I use with clients to uncover clarity, direction, and regret-free decisions. This is a deep, real, and practical conversation you won’t want to miss.  Topics in this episode:Why it’s so hard for women (especially moms) to answer “What do I want?” The cultural, motherhood, and people-pleasing influences that keep us disconnected from desire The difference between want (head-driven) and desire (soul/body-driven) How to define your personal sense of “rightness” and build your internal compass Real client stories (and my own) of making bold, regret-free career and life decisions Show Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Book your free breakthrough call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/book You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

Today, I’m celebrating a huge milestone - 200,000 downloads! I share the story of how this show began, the incredible impact it’s had, and why the key to reaching your biggest goals is to stop looking backward and start anchoring yourself in your future self. This episode will leave you inspired, challenged, and ready to believe that your greatest potential is still ahead of you.Topics in this episode:Why going “back” to who you were before kids/burnout won’t create the life you want now How to use your future self to achieve goals and create balance A client story that shows the power of shifting beliefs to match new goals Famous examples (Sara Blakely, Steve Jobs, Oprah) who didn’t let the past define them Why your greatest potential is always in front of you, not behind youShow Notes & References:Start your day strong with the Daily Kickstart - download here: ambitiousandbalanced.com/daily-kickstart Take the first step toward balance - book your free call here: rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/book You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m joined by sleep expert Terry Cralle to talk about why sleep isn’t a luxury - it’s a biological necessity. If you’ve ever pushed bedtime later just to get one more thing done, this conversation is going to challenge everything you thought you knew about productivity, ambition, and rest. Terry and I dive into the science of sleep, the myths we’ve believed about functioning on less, and practical ways to finally make sleep a true priority in your life. Topics in this episode:Why 99% of adults need 7–9 hours of sleep—and what really happens when we cut corners How sleep deprivation impacts mood, decision-making, productivity, and long-term health Simple, practical sleep hygiene habits Why ambitious women in particular struggle with racing minds at night—and how to calm them Reframing sleep as the ultimate productivity tool (not a guilty pleasure)  Show Notes & References:  Download your FREE Daily Kickstart here:  www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/daily-kickstart Listen to EP 14 The Single Best Productivity Tool:  https://www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/podcast/2021/6/21/the-single-best-productivity-tool Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg Connect with Terry:X: https://x.com/powerofsleep LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/terry-cralle-rn-sleep-educator Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/terrycrallern/ Website: www.TerryCralleRN.com Better Sleep Council: bettersleep.org

In this week's episode of the podcast, I’m revisiting one of the most popular episodes of all time, because it’s exactly what we all need right now. When life gets busy, self-care is usually the first thing to go. But what if self-care wasn’t about bubble baths or vacations? What if it was about protecting your mental and emotional state every single day? I’m sharing 7 practical self-care practices that actually restore you, so you can feel energized, balanced, and ready to show up as your best self.  Topics in this episode:Why self-care isn’t about massages, nails, or vacations The link between burnout and neglecting your mental & emotional state 7 powerful practices to protect your thoughts, emotions, and energy How to shift out of “I don’t know” thinking and into possibility The secret to creating a life you don’t need a break fromShow Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if coaching is right for you? Book your free discovery call: https://www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/book Get your free Daily Kickstart guide here:  https://www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/daily-kickstart You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg 

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing one of the most vulnerable stories I’ve ever told — how I walked away from my so-called dream job, rediscovered who I really am, and took a series of leaps that completely reshaped my career and life as a mom. From identity crises to finding clarity in my first coaching class, to building a thriving business and creating balance on my own terms — this is the journey that made me who I am today. If you’ve ever felt stuck, restless, or scared to make a change, you’ll want to hear this one. Topics in this episode:The moment I realized my dream job wasn’t actually fulfilling How motherhood pushed me into an identity crisis — and clarity Discovering my internal compass and redefining success on my terms The leaps of faith (and risks) that grew into a thriving coaching business Four powerful lessons I learned about enoughness, certainty, alignment, and failureShow Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if coaching is right for you? Book your free discovery call: https://www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/book Get your free Daily Kickstart guide here:  https://www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/daily-kickstart You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m sharing five super practical time hacks that will help you take back control of your calendar and even free up five hours (or more) each week. These aren’t complicated systems—just small, doable shifts that bring more focus, breathing room, and calm to your day. If you’ve ever sat down at your desk already feeling behind, this episode will give you the tools you need to feel in control of your time again.  Topics in this episode:Results-based scheduling: label your calendar with outcomes, not just tasks. Plan tomorrow, today: set your top 3 priorities before you log off. Stop believing the “not enough time” story—it’s a mindset shift. Time containers: finish tasks within set blocks, no spillover. Trust your past self: follow the plan you already created instead of reacting in the moment.Show Notes & References:Discover all the details about Ambitious & Balanced: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Ready to explore if it’s right for you? Book your free discovery call: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg 

In this week's episode of the podcast, I’m diving into the chaos of back-to-school season and sharing my best tips for making it feel calmer, smoother, and a whole lot less overwhelming. If the early mornings, afterschool shuffle, endless forms, and general “why does this feel so hard?!” vibe have you worn out already, this episode will help you reset. Think of it like your survival guide for fall transitions—so you can show up with more calm, space, and control during one of the busiest times of the year.  Topics in this episode:Why transitions are hard for both kids and moms (and how to expect big emotions). How to define success for the back-to-school season—on your terms. The power of choosing what to lean into and what to let go of right now. Practical ways to distribute the mental load with your partner. Building in buffer + recovery time so you feel more grounded and less frantic. Show Notes & References:Sign up for the Back-to-School Strategy Workshop: www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/back-to-school You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg  Book your Ambitious and Balanced Enquiry call here: https://www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call Learn more about Ambitious & Balanced here: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Enjoying the podcast?Make sure you don’t miss a single episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or where ever you listen to podcasts. Leave a rating and review in Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I’m wrapping up my special mini-series on the four essential priorities for creating real, lasting work-life balance. We’re talking about the final one - uninterrupted work time and why it’s the secret weapon that keeps you from working nights and weekends, feeling constantly behind, and sacrificing your personal life for your job. I’m sharing how to protect it, why it matters, and the mindset shifts you’ll need to finally feel calm, in control, and satisfied with your work—without giving up your ambition.Topics in this episode:The fourth essential priority for work-life balance: uninterrupted work time Why mid-career managers feel constantly behind and how to stop it The illusion of “flexible” work hours and why it’s hurting you Three steps to protecting your work time: clarity, confidence, control Tools, strategies, and real-life examples to help you follow throughShow Notes & References:You can watch this episode on YouTube! Check it out by clicking here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPZA5JKXYxjCMqodh4wxPBg  Book your Ambitious and Balanced Enquiry call here: https://www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced-call Learn more about Ambitious & Balanced here: www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/ambitiousandbalanced Enjoying the podcast?Make sure you don’t miss a single episode! Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or where ever you listen to podcasts.Leave a rating and review in Apple Podcasts or Podchaser.