From Boardroom to Babies and Back Again: The Hidden Cost of Unsupported Returns to Work

Returning to work after having a baby is one of the most emotionally charged transitions a woman can face, and it’s one that too often goes unsupported. In this powerful episode, I am joined by business psychologist and founder of & Culture Consulting, Clare Radford, to explore the findings from her groundbreaking report, How to Support Returning Parents: From Boardroom to Babies and Back Again.

With insights drawn from nearly 400 personal stories, Clare shines a light on the unseen struggles faced by women returning from maternity leave, and what businesses must do to keep their top talent from quietly slipping away. Together, we dive into the emotional toll, the hidden biases, and the practical steps needed to build a workplace where working parents can thrive.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The emotional and psychological impact of returning to work as a parent

Why ambition doesn’t disappear with parenthood, and what organisations are missing

The five game-changing strategies every employer should implement

How self-advocacy can transform a return-to-work experience

The cost to businesses and society of getting this wrong, and the ROI of getting it right

Whether you’re a working mum preparing to return to work, an HR leader wanting to improve retention, or someone passionate about creating more humane workplaces, this episode is essential listening.

You can listen to the episode here or via itunes or spotify. Or you can find it on most other podcast platforms and apps.

Could you do me a huge favour and share this episode with two or three working mums that pop into your head as you listen? My mission is to support as many working mums on their journey as possible, and so I’d be so grateful if you supported them by offering this free podcast. I hope it’s been helpful to you, and if so, I hope you pass that on.

Please consider rating and reviewing my show. Your review can help other people find my podcast so you’ll be helping another working mum find this resource. Plus I also love to go in and read them. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let me know what your favourite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

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