The Stepmom Premium (And Why I Can Say It Now)

My conversation with Diane on Women in Work

I said something on this podcast I could never have said ten years ago.

When I was a stepmom with a stable home and three boys on three soccer fields, people at work saw me differently. Same brain. Same skills. More credit.

When that life ended, the credit went back down.

Not a popular thing to say. And yet.

For 25 years, I spoke with the voice of the organization. I knew how to say the right thing. Then my job ended, and three days later I sat in an interview for a VP role. I drew a blank.

I walked home and knew: I don’t need another executive job. I need a transformation.

Today, my voice is mine. That is freedom. It is also responsibility. There is no corner left to hide in.

In this episode, Diane and I talk about:

• What HR data shows, even in companies with the best intentions

• Why being a stepmom gave me an edge I never expected

• The day my calendar went empty

• The dimmer: building a new life before you leave the old one

• Dropping the bars others set for you, and the ones you set for yourself

• Why I ask clients selling their business to protect their clarity during due diligence

We are all richer than we think. Most of what you need is already inside you.

Have a listen,https://youtu.be/DSOpSfL5ua8?si=x088SU82syR9F872 then send me a little hello. I’d love to know what landed for you.

Hypnotically yours,Janylène xo