How Working Moms Can Reduce Burnout and Lead with Empathy

In a world where working moms are juggling deadlines, dinner, and deep emotional labor, it’s no wonder burnout feels like an ever-present threat. But what if there was a better way?

In this episode recap, we’re diving into the wisdom of Dr. Julie Donley—leadership coach, award-winning author, and former director of nursing—who breaks down the emotional weight modern career women carry and how to lead with clarity, confidence, and care.

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🎯 The CARE Leadership Model: What Every Working Mom Needs to Know

Dr. Julie introduces her signature framework—CARE: Communication, Appreciation, Respect, and Empathy. It’s more than a leadership model—it’s a blueprint for living and leading in a high-pressure world. CARE starts with how we treat ourselves. Want to show up stronger at work and home? Start with self-compassion.

💬 Emotional Intelligence: Your Untapped Leadership Superpower

Burnout doesn’t begin with the to-do list—it begins with ignoring your emotional bandwidth. Dr. Julie reminds us: stress isn’t what happens around us, it’s how we respond. Learning to pause, reflect, and choose your response can radically change how you lead.

She shares the practical truth: we don’t need a spa day (though yes, please)—we need 20-minute windows of intentional care. Whether that’s journaling, walking, or blocking a lunch break, small acts of self-leadership matter.

💻 AI & Working Moms: Tool or Threat?

Let’s talk tech. AI is here, and it’s not going anywhere. But instead of resisting, Dr. Julie encourages career moms to embrace AI for what it can do—automate tasks, streamline scheduling, help with resume writing—while recognizing what it can’t do: manage conflict, build empathy, or lighten the emotional load.

Her challenge? Get curious, not intimidated. Ask: “How can AI support me, so I have more time for what truly matters?”

🧠 The Real Work: Awareness + Intention

From handling conflict to navigating change, Dr. Julie drops truth after truth: “No one’s a mind reader. If you want to be understood, communicate clearly. If you want to be seen, show up confidently.”

Leadership, especially for women, starts with clarity and self-worth. We can’t influence others if we’re running on empty. And we can't show up powerfully if we’re apologizing for our needs.

💡 Wrap-Up: You Deserve to Be on Your Own To-Do List

If you take one thing from this conversation, let it be this: put yourself on the list. Your leadership, your presence, your calm—it all starts with how you treat you.

Ready to lead with clarity and confidence?

🧳 Next Steps for Working Moms Who Want More:

🚀 Take my FREE Leadership Style Quiz to identify your strengths and career growth path
📩 Join the Career Growth for Working Moms Facebook Group for exclusive career tips and support

🎧 And if this post hit home, share it with a mama friend and leave a quick review on the pod. You never know who’s waiting to feel seen.

You’re not alone. You’re just one aligned decision away from less stress and more strength. And we’re cheering you on every step of the way.

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