Parenting is a lifelong journey of showing up—early mornings, packed lunches, school drop-offs, dance recitals, doctor’s appointments, late-night pep talks, and everything in between. For working parents, these responsibilities don’t pause when the workday begins. That’s why having supportive, understanding colleagues and leaders can make all the difference.
This Mother’s Day, we’re spotlighting the people who make that balance possible. From managers who model empathy and flexibility, to peers who redefine what it means to show up both at work and at home, these stories reflect what happens when workplace cultures value family as much as performance. Across industries and roles, these reflections reveal how deeply inspiring it is to see leaders—and especially other parents—prioritize presence without compromising ambition.
Whether it’s advice shared during a hallway chat, policies that give parents breathing room, or simply witnessing someone else navigate it all with grace, the people in these quotes are proof that support isn’t just a perk—it’s a necessity.
Which leaders or peers at your company inspire you as a parent?
“I am grateful to work for a team that values the whole person, inside and outside the workplace. I’ve been lucky enough to work for leaders who are parents themselves, and who have always modeled what a healthy work-life balance and commitment to family can look like, while still achieving professional goals and career growth. As a new mom on the Marketing team, I have felt affirmed, supported and empowered by my leaders and team during this season of change, and I look forward to what the future has in store.” —Stephanie Kieninger, Digital Content Manager
“Honestly, every one of the working moms at Delaware North continues to inspire me. It’s no easy feat balancing work and the busy schedules our kids have these days. There are so many amazing women who work here and continue to be successful in their careers and at home.” —Jocelyn Zimmerman, Senior Digital Marketing Manager, Search Team
“Over the years, I’ve collaborated with other parents at Fisher Investments on the many complexities when it comes to raising children. Some advice I was given is that there is no perfect balance. Sometimes you’re going to prioritize work, sometimes you’re going to prioritize being a parent. This has encouraged me to show up when it's important! Allowing myself to tip the balance to what needs more of me in the moment has helped me feel successful at work and at home, and perhaps more importantly, has allowed either success to not detract from the other.” —Susan K., Lieutenant Vice President Global PCG Marketing
“My boss, Mark W., has quietly taught me so much about being a parent. The way he shows up for his daughter—with so much love, pride, and genuine care—has stayed with me. Whether it’s helping her through life’s moments or cheering her on from the audience, he’s always there. He takes care of his whole family with the same heart, and somehow, still finds time to support all of us at work. Watching him, I’ve learned that being present really is the most powerful thing we can do.” —Dipti B., Implementation Manager
“My design partner has two toddlers. It's an absolute wonder how incredibly productive at work she is, as the kids are often home sick, crawling all over her house, etc. I only have one, and I remember how difficult the toddler phase was—to do it with two and work from home full time is nothing short of superhuman.” —Kayla Baxter, Senior Product Manager
“Before I joined the company, I had a conversation with our CEO where we bonded over both being parents to two boys. He shared how important it is to be in the audience when our kids look up—to be present. That moment stuck with me. I knew I wanted to work somewhere that truly puts family first. Since then, I’ve been inspired by leaders and peers who live that value—setting boundaries, supporting one another, and showing that you can be both a great parent and a strong professional. That culture has given me the confidence to do the same.” —Brooke Sullivan, GTM People & Talent Partner
“I'm inspired by many peers at Hyperproof who juggle both parenting and work. One aspect in particular is that they don't shy away from talking about parenting challenges, and model what it means to set boundaries and still be highly effective. It’s helped me realize that being present for your kids and being committed to your career aren’t mutually exclusive—you can do both with intention. Time management is a key skill to stay on track!” —Hana Tenklova, Senior Implementation Consultant
“I’m constantly inspired by the amazing moms on our People team. They juggle careers and parenting with grace, excelling at work while remaining present for their children. Their support for fellow parents creates a culture of understanding and encouragement. They truly recognize that parenting doesn’t stop at the end of the workday—we’re all managing both the 9–5 and the 5–9. I love that the women shaping our company’s culture also foster a workplace that embraces both career growth and family life.” —Cassidy Treiber, Product Designer
“My coworker Jared truly inspires me as a parent. He consistently puts his family first—both his wife and kids—and it’s refreshing to see a male colleague who openly shares the load of family responsibilities. His devotion to them and his commitment to being a present, engaged family man sets a powerful example.” —Natalie Carlson, Sr Director Product Management
“While the construction industry, particularly my company, has few women in leadership roles, I’ve found inspiration in two male leaders who consistently emphasize the importance of family. They’ve shown me that growing professionally is possible while still prioritizing time with our children. Their example reminds me that work-life balance isn't just a goal, it's a value worth protecting. They encourage me to be present for the little moments, like school events or milestones, because time really does fly. Their perspective helps shape how I approach my role as a parent and a professional.” —Morayma Da Silva, VP of Contract Compliance, William Charles Construction
“I’m fortunate to work in a team that truly understands the importance of balancing work and family, whether they are parents or not. My boss in particular inspires me through her ability to lead with empathy and prioritize both professional excellence and being present for her children. Her open conversations about family challenges and wins remind me that being a great parent and a strong professional are not mutually exclusive. She leads by example, and motivates me to be more intentional with my time and to lead with patience and compassion—both at work and at home.” —Heather Doane, Communications Specialist II
"I particularly appreciate my mentor, JoAnne Breese-Jaeck, VP & Chief Privacy Officer at Northwestern Mutual. JoAnne’s three children are older than mine so she’s already navigated these middle school years. She’s helped me think about where I most want to show up—sporting events or family dinners—and to let go of smaller duties. Balance isn’t easy, but having a mentor who supports and models the way helps me to be more fully present in both arenas. " —Dana Hart, VP Field Sales Enablement Engineering
"I am inspired by Northwestern Mutual’s EVP and Chief Product Officer Kamilah Williams-Kemp, who oversees the company's $2.4 trillion insurance business. I see her at town halls or in the media. I also see her at school drop-off, meetings, and kids’ birthday parties. She leads with her values, directing the work-life harmony that works for her family and the organization. Her actions inspire me to create the harmony I want for my work life and family as well." —Jimin Karolewicz, Assistant Director Compliance
Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI.
“Yes, there are quite a few leaders and peers at my company who inspire me as a parent—especially the working moms on my team. As a first-time mom, watching how they balance their careers with family life has been incredibly motivating. They show up fully for both their work and their families, and they do it with so much grace, humor, and strength. That kind of authenticity has helped me feel more confident in setting boundaries, prioritizing what matters most, and showing up as my whole self for my peers at work, and for my daughter at home." —Isabel Rodicio, HR Generalist
"Having a leader who truly understands the balance of career and parenthood makes all the difference. My manager, a phenomenal mom of two young girls, leads by example—showing that it’s possible to excel in a demanding role while being fully present as a parent.
She encourages flexibility and fosters a culture where both career growth and family moments are valued. Her support has been invaluable, and I’m grateful to work in an environment where being a working parent is not just understood but embraced. To the leaders who make this possible—thank you." —Lauren Mack, Sales Enablement Manager
