This episode features the menopause educator and coach, Jacqueline Rose.Our conversation explores the challenges of work-life balance, career progression, and the impact of family responsibilities on professional life. It delves into the experiences of women navigating these complexities and the strategies they employ to achieve balance. The conversation explores the challenges of work-life balance, the impact of caring responsibilities, and the pursuit of personal fulfillment. It delves into the themes of career transitions, ambition, and the changing priorities of midlife women.Jacqueline shares her experience of pivoting from an established career path to pursuing new ventures and the internal conflicts that arise from such decisions. The conversation explores the themes of life transitions, work-life balance, and personal growth. It delves into the challenges of navigating life changes, finding purpose, and managing career and family responsibilities.Jacqueline shares insights on self-discovery, legacy, and the impact of personal experiences on work-life balance. The conversation covers the themes of work-life balance, perimenopause, and the impact of food on health and wellness. It delves into the challenges of navigating career transitions, hormonal changes, and self-care strategies. The focus is on understanding and adapting to the changing needs of the body and mind during different life stages.The conversation covers a range of topics related to work-life balance, personal growth, and the challenges of different life stages. It emphasizes the importance of being present, recognising life stages, and finding balance amidst uncertainty and change.Takeaways:Work-life balance is a constant juggling actFamily responsibilities impact career decisions Work-life balance is influenced by caring responsibilities and personal fulfillment.Midlife women experience career transitions and changing priorities.Pivoting from established career paths to pursue new ventures can lead to internal conflicts. Life transitionsWork-life balance Work-life balance is essential for overall well-being.Perimenopause brings about significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes.The relationship between food, health, and hormonal changes is crucial for managing overall wellness. Present Moment AwarenessRecognizing Life StagesChapters:00:00 Navigating Career Challenges10:08 Navigating Work-Life Balance and Caring Responsibilities17:34 The Impact of Career Transitions and Changing Priorities28:09 Visualizing Legacy and Purpose44:22 Menopause and Food Connection

*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/

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.TakeawaysFluidity 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 balanceChapters00:00 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

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.TakeawaysLeaving 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 stepRELATED 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_WAEuUTzvg14: On Pride, Acceptance and Finding Balance by Parenting Equally While Working Full-Time: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1YPLrhoJhTGHRVNfftAsKS?si=eqn3LoOaQIe5M9DDaN6F3Q

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.TakeawaysIndividualised approach to utilising sleep in pursuit of your work-life balanceThe impact of sleep on overall well-beingChapters00:00 Introduction to Work-Life Balance10:04 Personal Stories and Insights20:33 Balancing Sleep and Other Priorities42:22 Managing Passions and SleepLINKS 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/ 

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.TakeawaysBoundary 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=10007084868856:"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=1000553872664Chapters00:00 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

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=100060267404234: 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=1000710242124Chapters00:00 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

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.

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.TakeawaysWork-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.Chapters00:00 Navigating Work-Life Balance Challenges11:56 Personal Stories of Overwhelm13:53 Infertility and Work-Life Balance14:02 Grief and Its Impact on Balance20:53 Financial Pressures on Work-Life Balance22:11 Neurodiversity and Individual Needs23:17 Feeling Underwhelmed at Work24:19 Practical Tips for Enhancing Balance29:03 The Three Pillars Model of Balance31:45 Finding Balance as a JourneyKeywordswork-life balance, personal stories, overwhelm, grief, neurodiversity, fulfillment, practical tips, sleep, perfectionism, lessons learned

My guest this episode is no stranger to mixing things up: she has moved countries and even continents multiple times in her life; she is a scientist with a PhD, describes herself as an artist, and has gone on to train as a Reiki master; and now she literally mixes things up as the creator of her own skincare brand, combining evidence-based science with the wisdom of ancient healing philosophy. Her name is Dr Fernanda da Silva Tatley, and throughout our conversation we touch on: *How living in different countries expands your cultural horizons and influences your values around work and everything else in life;*Growing up with aspirational parents that object to idleness, and the impact this has on work values;*Reflections of parenting, with the hindsight that comes when your children reach adulthood; *How to find a work-life balance when you want to pursue a different career path than the one you originally chose;*How self-care and self-love can enhance your overall sense of balance.RELATED PODCAST EPISODES:11: On Finding Balance as a Career-Driven Family Man, When Work Takes Priority - Gilles' Story - https://open.spotify.com/episode/1Brf0XTFazLQWazVrIBxeX?si=9MqB7MZ6SKaeqwRqgEj0GA49: On Accountancy, Regaining Balance After Heartbreak, and the Power of a Good Night's Sleep - Victoria Mortimer's Story - https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/put3qwnqfYb50: Celebrating the Podcast's 50th Episode - Top Three Work-Life Balance Lessons, Listener Confessions and Surprise Guest Appearances - https://open.spotify.com/episode/7elEGXUXl6izQyIUzQHV5s?si=pPLe9knlRkiScMeA8UKr5A