Redefining Career Pauses: A Fresh Perspective on Stay-at-Home Life | Neha Ruch (EP377)

Are you tired of the question, “What do you do?” as an at-home parent—a question that oversimplifies and undervalues the role? In this podcast episode, I spoke with Neha Ruch, founder of Mother Untitled, to explore the multifaceted reality of taking a career break after having kids. We discuss the invisible yet essential labor of managing a household, the need to redefine success during this unique life phase, and practical ways to stay connected to professional goals while prioritizing family. Neha offers actionable strategies for remaining prepared to re-enter the workforce when the time is right, while also addressing the cultural stigma surrounding career pauses. Together, we reframe parenting as a valuable and fulfilling chapter, challenging outdated narratives about success and family balance. Whether you're navigating this journey or curious about modern perspectives on work and family, this conversation offers an empowering look at thriving in every phase of life. Links Discussed in This Episode | Order a Copy of Minimalist Moms: Living and Parenting with Simplicity Neha Can't Stop Talking About: Shrinking on Apple TV Neha's Resource: The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz Connect with Neha: Book: The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break After Kids – and Come Back Stronger Than Ever by Neha Ruch Mother Untitled About Neha | Neha Ruch is the founder of Mother Untitled, the leading platform for ambitious women leaning into family life. A thought leader, influencer, and sought-after speaker focusing on women, work, parenting and identity, Neha’s work at Mother Untitled is catalyzing a shift in how society views stay-at-home motherhood. Her book, The Power Pause: How to Plan a Career Break After Kids—and Come Back Stronger Than Ever, will be published by Putnam in January 2025. Neha lives in Manhattan with her husband, their two children, and their dog Coconut. Work with Me | If you’ve been struggling with motivation to work through bad habits that are keeping you stuck, I’d love to help you achieve your goals! We’ll work together (locally or virtually) to discover what areas in your life are high priority to get you feeling less overwhelmed right away. For more info on my processes, fees, and availability please contact! Episode Sponsors | Clear Intentions would not be possible without the support of weekly sponsors. Choosing brands that I believe in is important to me. I only want to recommend brands that I believe may help you in your daily life. As always, never feel pressured into buying anything. Remember: if you don't need it, it's not a good deal! Cymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/Minimalist for 20% off your order + free shipping today Hungry Root: Get 40% off your first box PLUS get a free item in every box for life . Go to Hungryroot.com/minimalist and use code minimalist. Enjoy the Podcast? Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning into this podcast, then do not hesitate to write a review. Please share with friends that could be inspired by the wisdom of each and every guest! Further Questions | You can contact me through my website , find me on Instagram , Pinterest or like The Minimalist Moms Page on Facebook . Checkout the podcast storefront for recommendations from Diane (and a FULL list of previous guests' books!) Grab a copy of my first book Minimalist Moms: Living and Parenting with Simplicity Checkout a list of my past collaborative podcasts here ! Our Sponsors: * Check out Acorns Early: https://acornsearly.com/MINIMALISTMOMS * Check out Avocado Green Mattress: https://avocadogreenmattress.com * Check out Everyday Dose and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://everydaydose.com * Check out Infinite Epigenetics: https://infiniteepigenetics.com/MINIMALIST * Check out PharmaNutra and use my code MINIMALIST for a great deal: https://pharmanutra-us.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/minimalist-moms-podcast-simple-living-for-overwhelmed-moms/exclusive-content Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy