I'm sorry to say that I've had to include a trigger warning at the start of this podcast episode, to warn listeners that some of the themes touched on throughout my recorded conversation with Helen Jeffries - a Senior Civil Servant in the UK Government, a prolific blogger on autism, a Trustee for the charity Ambitious about Autism, and an accomplished musician - are of a heavy nature, including a discussion on suicide.
Herself autistic, Helen's work-life balance story is told through the lens of someone that lives and works with autism. And the sad truth of the matter is that autistic people - and neurodivergent people more broadly - face tough challenges when juggling work and other things in life in a world designed for neurotypical brains.
The impact on their mental health can be significant, and throughout our conversation, Helen draws some vital attention to this reality, which is both enlightening and sobering.
It's not easy to hear, but for those of us that live and work with neurodivergent people (which, let's face it, is most of us), it's an important insight. And I hope that those listening who themselves are autistic, or neurodivergent in another way, take comfort, courage and inspiration from listening to Helen's work-life balance story.
It's not all doom and gloom mind you. As much as this episode is about recognising the additional challenges that autistic people face in their pursuit of balance, it is also about strength, honesty, and being unapologetically yourself.
We touch on the role that societal expectations play too, as well as how a person's faith and religion impacts their sense of work-life balance.
Helen also provides a unique perspective on the work-life balance foibles of neurotypical people - listen to the end of the episode to learn from her astute and thought-provoking observations!
You can follow Helen Jeffries' blog at: https://helenjeffries.wordpress.com
RELATED EPISODES/LINKS:
Ali’s Story – Artistic License: When ‘work’ is life, and ‘life’ is work – Dyslexia and the Trappings of Domesticity:
https://a-fine-balance.com/2021/02/24/alis-story/
45: On Infertility Struggles, Undesired Childlessness, and How to Regain Balance and Find Your Purpose When You Find Yourself in Unexpected Circumstances - Lana Manikowski's Story: https://open.spotify.com/episode/39rxsuhudvR91mOFvMPv24?si=A26y_e06S4CkTeSsDsiabw
40: How to Find a Work-Life Balance by Working More - Work, Life, Balance Lesson #9: https://open.spotify.com/episode/08eUqMnAZE3QjJyUUYhGQQ?si=RLGWJe6mQ6y2OAl7SlH8eg
38: How to Find a Work-Life Balance When You’re a Perfectionist – Work, Life, Balance Lesson #8: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3oVY4srbWNoD1us2jWNsW1?si=hwhqJT4uR2it3IMxsTTjbQ
29: DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH SPECIAL: Pursuing a Work-Life Balance When You’re Disabled - Emma Livingstone’s Story: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0A98AP9zTkMzg9TYMDoC9J?si=Klo6jU_LQ12coM9fwZ1kFg
21: Finding Work-Life Balance as an Introvert in a Family and Workplace of Extroverts - Rami Madbouli’s Story:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/2gZWfgqu0KGzinvsFLH9bB?si=WlI7in6oQdSzh7Fj7fiE9g
14: On Pride, Acceptance & Finding Balance by Parenting Equally While Working Full-Time-Paul's Story: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1YPLrhoJhTGHRVNfftAsKS?si=MNSOxxqWSVyYqqPrc_g7BQ
What do turning 4 and hitting 50 have in common?
Together they mean that the podcast A Fine Balance: Work-Life Balance Confessions is officially old enough to contain some wisdom, but still in its infancy and curious to learn more.
This month not only marks the podcast’s 4th birthday, but also the major milestone of its 50th episode.
To celebrate, we’ve pulled out all the stops with a special 50th episode, which includes:
✨ Special guest appearances
📢 Listener work-life balance confessions
📈 A countdown of the Top 3 Most Downloaded Work-Life Balance Lessons of all time
…and a few more surprises besides.
Whether you've been with us since episode one or just tuning in, this is the perfect time to (re)subscribe and join the conversation. Don’t miss out on our most exciting episode yet!
In this episode of 'A Fine Balance Work-Life Balance Confessions', I'm joined by Victoria Mortimer, a finance director and life coach, to talk about the intricacies of work-life balance from the perspective of the accountancy profession.
We explore the juggles of personal finance management, emotional well-being, and the importance of open communication in relationships. Victoria shares her journey from a demanding corporate job to finding fulfilment in a balanced life, emphasising the emotional aspects of money management and the significance of self-reliance.
The conversation highlights the fluidity of balance and the need for intentionality in personal and professional choices.
Takeaways:
Work-life balance is deeply personal and varies for everyone.
Emotional aspects of money management can impact decision-making.
Open communication about finances is crucial in relationships.
Finding a fulfilling job can enhance overall life satisfaction.
Self-reliance is key to personal growth and stability.
Awkward conversations often lead to better understanding and resolution.
Flexibility in work arrangements can improve work-life balance.
Meditation can help manage stress and clarify thoughts.
Recognising when to seek help is important for mental health.
Balance is not a fixed state but a fluid and evolving process.
Chapters
00:00 The Unlikely Accountant: Breaking Stereotypes
02:54 Emotional Aspects of Finance
03:29 Risk and Financial Decisions in Relationships
04:52 Navigating Finances in Partnerships
05:46 Work-Life Balance: Finding the Right Ratio
06:16 The Importance of Sleep and Routine
08:20 Personal Stories and Influences
15:18 Navigating Language Barriers and Cultural Immersion
17:17 The Fluidity of Work-Life Balance
19:41 Redefining Balance: Beyond the Traditional Notion
22:39 Intentionality and Individuality in Career Choices
27:05 The Impact of Work Environment on Happiness
33:23 Finding Meaning and Fulfilment in Work
39:20 Healing from Heartbreak and Embracing Independence
40:54 Shaping Identity Through Experiences
41:49 The Power of Meditation for Mental Clarity
43:55 Recognising Burnout and Making Changes
46:59 Confronting Difficult Conversations
48:16 Work-Life Balance and Flexibility
RELATED EPISODES/LINKS:
On Working in Corporate Jobs:
25: On Marketing, Corporate Cultures, Having Fun, and Asking for Help: Dan Knowlton's Story: https://a-fine-balance.com/2024/05/22/on-marketing-corporate-cultures-having-fun-and-asking-for-help-new-podcast-episode-out-now-featuring-dan-knowlton/
11: On Finding Balance as a Career-Driven Family Man, When Work Takes Priority - Gilles Dahan’s Story: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/04/02/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-season-2-episode-3-out-now/
On Managing Personal Finances, Money & Debt:
37: On the Hidden Impact of Debt, Body Image Struggles, and Being “Replaceable” – Lorna McKenna’s Story: https://a-fine-balance.com/2025/01/11/on-the-hidden-impact-of-debt-body-image-struggles-and-being-replaceable-on-work-life-balance-lornas-story-new-podcast-episode-out-now/
They say that there are only two sure things in life: death and taxes.
So given that death, and coming to terms with loss, is something that we will all encounter at some point in our lives, thinking about the interplay between bereavement and work-life balance seems like an essential, albeit difficult, thing to talk about.
In this solo episode of "A Fine Balance:Work-Life Balance Confessions", I broach the subject in a stripped back, simple way, different to my usual “Work, Life, Balance Lessons” format.
Because what can we really learn about finding balance when you’re grieving? Grief doesn’t come with a lesson plan, or a neat and tidy formula or check list.
Instead, I share examples of podcast conversations where grief has surfaced. And I let them speak for themselves.
The examples aren’t intended to advise; they’re not meant to fix anything. They’re just reminders that when we talk about balance, sometimes that means making space for grief too.
RELATED EPISODES:
On Legacy, Purpose and Finding Work-Life Balance When You're Working as a Politician and Elected Official - Johnson Situ's Story: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3v2kQZRhZxJK5MfqaXj9lO?si=0f00ooRkQ7OFuoONbBtLhA
On Finding Balance in Grief, Being a High-Achiever, and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome - Katie Ford's Story: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Fb3ZcRFWigo7iOLUN4vss?si=HjjfQG37StO3Wyg7h6D1sQ
On Finding Balance When You Want To "Have It All", Teamwork, and Avoiding Stress: Ruth Todd CBE's Story: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Fb3ZcRFWigo7iOLUN4vss?si=HjjfQG37StO3Wyg7h6D1sQ
On Housekeeping, Middle-Age, and Finding Balance When Your Marriage Ends - Helen Hayward's Story: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2gGcu3qlJJALr4V4ulcguv?si=8PbZt8ZYQaGiHYyoC7AEMw
The Pursuit of Balance When You're Living Through War - Featuring Dr Ian Moran: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5t5hbVjCBY5b6Ng8qSEvOo?si=bb4LQ0LXTpOpOyP7E4Nkpw
In this episode, I sit down with Johnson Situ, a political advisor and diplomat who has dedicated his career to politics and public service.
He also happens to be the first politician that I've hosted on this podcast, so I took full advantage of asking him all about what it takes to pursue a work-life balance when you're an elected public figure, and when your work is driven so strongly by your ideals, beliefs and values. Are you always on the clock?
I'm pleased to say that I got more than just a politician's answer to these questions, and more!
In fact, Johnson's openness in talking about how his values are integrated into all of his work-life balance choices, and how they've been influenced by pivotal moments in his upbringing, were incredibly powerful and thought-provoking.
As well as this, we also touch on Johnson's experience of losing his beloved father at the formative age of twenty-one. As well as coping with the grief of his personal loss, Johnson describes mourning the future that his father never got to live: the dreams, the impact, the time that was cut short.
All this afforded Johnson with a profound clarity around how he wanted to use his time, how to make the most of living a life infused with purpose, and how recognising the fragility of life and success can help towards finding an inner sense of balance.
If you've ever wondered whether your day-to-day life aligns with the legacy you want to leave behind, then this episodeis for you.
Throughout Johnson and my conversation, we cover:
🏘️ The experience of growing up on a council estate and navigating a school system where most peers left without qualifications
⚛️How to discover your core values—and why they should guide both your career and personal life
👥The unique challenges of finding balance in the early years of marriage
🌎The influence of being the child of immigrants, and how that shapes ambition and burnout across generations
❤️🩹How grief reshapes our relationship with time, purpose, and work
RELATED EPISODES:
On the Work-Life Balance of Children of ImmigrantsOn Finding Balance as a Career-Driven Family Man, When Work Takes Priority: Gilles’ Story: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/04/02/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-season-2-episode-3-out-now/
The Pursuit of Balance When Undergoing Infertility Treatment, and How to Regain Balance and Find Purpose in Unexpected Circumstances: https://a-fine-balance.com/2025/04/23/the-pursuit-of-balance-when-undergoing-infertility-treatment-and-how-to-regain-balance-and-find-purpose-in-unexpected-circumstances-new-podcast-episode-out-today/
On Career ChangeRouth’s Story – On Panic Attacks, Career Changes, and Regaining Balance After Hitting Rock Bottom: https://a-fine-balance.com/2024/12/07/rouths-story-on-panic-attacks-career-changes-and-regaining-balance-after-hitting-rock-bottom-new-podcast-episode-out-now/
On Finding Purpose
How to Reset Your Work-Life Balance by Mastering Four Internal Elements: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2yExfehxCiHkFQ141IMDid?si=QFqolUcHTdqOmO0-kpcwIg
Ever feel judged for how you balance work with everything else in life?
In this episode, I explore some of the real-life examples shared on the blog and podcast of how people have described responding to feeling judged, and the impact it has on their work-life balance choices.
The intention, as always, is to celebrate the different ways that individuals approach their pursuit of balance, and to learn from one another.
Throughout the episode, I explore three of the most common reactions I've encountered to feeling judged:
🏎️ Using it as fuel to assert your decisions and make empowering changes
😕Internalising others' expectations and views on your choice, leading you to feel stuck and doubt yourself
🦆 Acknowledging judgements people may be taking of you, but not allowing it to influence your decision-making or play on your mind
The episode invites listeners to reflect on how they react to feeling judged and the root causes of their reactions. It includes some tips and inspiration about how to be more mindful and deliberate in managing the powerful emotions that feeling judged evokes.
RELEVANT LINKS:
'A Fine Balance' blog post on reacting to judgements with anger: "Treat ’em Mean, Keep ’em Keen": https://a-fine-balance.com/2020/09/09/treat-em-mean-keep-em-keen/
When Feeling Judged Fuels Change:
https://a-fine-balance.com/2020/09/03/work-life-balance-profile-2-sheara-abrahams/
https://a-fine-balance.com/2021/11/16/stay-at-home-mum-nadines-story-on-opting-out-of-a-career-path-valuing-a-mothers-presence/
On Internalising People's Judgements of You:
https://a-fine-balance.com/2025/04/23/the-pursuit-of-balance-when-undergoing-infertility-treatment-and-how-to-regain-balance-and-find-purpose-in-unexpected-circumstances-new-podcast-episode-out-today/
Marsha’s Story – From high-flying professional to stay-at-home-mum: https://a-fine-balance.com/2020/09/23/work-life-balance-profile-3-marsha/
When Unaffected by People's Judgements:
Finding Balance When You’re An Introvert in a Family and Workplace Full of Extroverts: https://a-fine-balance.com/2024/03/13/finding-balance-when-youre-an-introvert-in-a-family-and-workplace-full-of-extroverts-podcast-episode-out-now-season-3-episode-3/On Finding Balance When You Want to “Have It All”, Teamwork & Avoiding Stress: Ruth’s Story: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/04/21/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-season-2-episode-4-out-now/
Have you ever found yourself on a life or career path that took you completely by surprise? When a plan you’d mapped out so clearly in your head didn’t unfold the way you’d imagined — or hoped — it would?
Well, my guest in this podcast episode, Lana Manikowski, is no stranger to that kind of turning point. So much so, that she’s written a book entitled So Now What?, and hosts a podcast of the same name, which charts her experience of coming to terms with a reality vastly different from the one she’d envisioned.
At the heart of Lana’s story is an infertility struggle that lasted seven years, ultimately leading to the painful realisation that motherhood wasn’t going to be part ofher future — despite her hopes and expectations.
The impact on Lana’s working life was profound. It shifted not only her sense of purpose, but also how she viewed her own value and the role that work had played – and was evolving - in her life.
In our conversation, Lana opens up about how infertility treatment affected her work-life balance. We also talk about how her identity as the child of immigrants shaped her work ethic and values, and explore her bold transition from corporate life to self-employment.
Throughout this episode, I step outside my comfort zone to ask some direct, and at times difficult questions about motherhood and infertility – topics that are often considered off-limits in polite conversation- too personal, too painful and shrouded in stigma.
But Lana’s openness, her commitment to breaking the silence around these issues, and her desire to be the role model that she needed during her own darkest times, created the opportunity for us to explore the emotional realities that many women face – but few talk about.
In so doing, we get to the heart of how to find balance during infertility treatment, and what it means to rebuild a meaningful working life when the dream of becoming a mum doesn’t come true.
RELATED EPISODES:
On Work-Life Balance and Infertility Struggles:
14: On Pride, Acceptance & Finding Balance by Parenting Equally While Working Full-Time-Paul's Story - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/14-on-pride-acceptance-finding-balance-by-parenting/id1570430336?i=1000624615595
1: On self-care, the power of a positive mindset, and finding balance in mid-life - Soli’s Story - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/1-on-self-care-the-power-of-a-positive/id1570430336?i=1000530012085
On Collegiate Relations When You Don't Have Caring Responsibilities:
6: “Single & Childfree by Choice”. On boundary-setting & doing what makes you happy - Laurie’s Story - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/6-single-childfree-by-choice-on-boundary-setting-doing/id1570430336?i=1000553872664
I'm not knocking it. It's a great, simple technique that anyone can adopt to save and organise your time. But here’s the thing—not everyone does it.
In this Work, Life, Balance Lesson episode, we dig into why people make the time-management choices they do—and how those choices impact their overall sense of balance.
Rather than just throwing out generic tips and tricks (though I include a few of them in there too), through pulling out examples from the podcast's back catalogue, I explore the why behind how people manage their time.
Do you thrive on chaos? Or are you someone who loves systems and structure? Do you aim for control, or do you let things flow?
This is all about understanding how your approach to time-management affects your work-life balance, and how to find an approach that works for you.
Tune in to get inspired by real examples and to prompt self-reflection about how your time-management mindset can improve your sense of balance.
RELATED EPISODES:
Free-flowing approaches to managing your time:
5: On Marriage, Self-Employment & Primary Care-Giving: “Motherhood & the Mental Load” - Sarah’s Story:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6eQujZzFTXQxjgwxsaLAAR?si=oYL_xcSqRS-lTkihXLBqIA
37: On the Hidden Impact of Debt, Body Image Struggles, and Being "Replaceable" on Work-Life Balance – Lorna's Story: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Wr56OMoxCwUpMj3kfAa3P?si=claxAcHkQfGJ0eQpNrZ-lg
Structured approaches to managing your time:
27: On Flexible Working, Morning Routines & Finding Balance When You're In Charge - Rebecca’s Story:https://open.spotify.com/episode/0DAOBqA2RnyMa19gayV9Iz?si=oAkIO6tdQ3qgOMn_PNlMiQ
31: The Pursuit of Work-Life Balance When You’re Single and Looking for Love - Katie’s Story:https://open.spotify.com/episode/3adn58AOuZU3UkJJyWzu08?si=f8OEGtdISOGOGH0NoTXdtQ
Managing your time when you live and work with a disability:
29: DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH SPECIAL: Pursuing a Work-Life Balance When You’re Disabled - Emma’s Story:https://open.spotify.com/episode/0A98AP9zTkMzg9TYMDoC9J?si=Klo6jU_LQ12coM9fwZ1kFg
In this anonymous work-life balance confession, I share the story of "Susan" (not her real name) who revealed in a confidential interview the emotional and financial struggles she contends with in pursuit of her balance between work and everything else in life.
I share Susan's story of the crushing pressure of managing life on her own, with inadequate financial support from her ex-husband and the weight of constantly putting on a brave face for her kids.
Her story is one of hidden anxiety, self-doubt, and the deep desire to break the cycles of financial instability and unfulfilled potential in her family.
Having never attended university, Susan's journey highlights the extra barriers many face when trying to advance in their careers without formal education.
But despite these challenges, Susan’s determination to secure a better future for her children and herself shines through.
In summary, this episode touches on the work-life balance impacts of:
📚Having left school at 16 and not gaining further qualifications or attending university.
💍 Breaking out of an unhappy marriage and undergoing an acrimonious divorce, which involves disputes over finances of raising children.
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Breaking repetitive destructive cycles of family choices around work and everything else in life.
😔 Experiencing "imposter syndrome" at work and not feeling you deserve to be in your job.
❤️🩹Giving yourself "permission" to take care of your own needs and desires when you're responsible for caring for others.
RELATED LINKS:
Susan’s Story – Climbing High: on Single Motherhood and Social Mobility: https://a-fine-balance.com/2021/01/20/susans-story-climbing-high-on-single-motherhood-and-social-mobility/.
Soli’s Story – “Sunny-Side Up, Please”: Self-Care for Caring Professionals, Finding Balance in Mid-Life & Staying Positive When the Course of Motherhood Doesn’t Run Smooth: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/1-on-self-care-the-power-of-a-positive/id1570430336?i=1000530012085
On Finding Balance in Grief, Being a High-Achiever & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome-Katie's Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/10-on-finding-balance-in-grief-being-a-high/id1570430336?i=1000602674042
In this episode, I dive into the lessons I've learned about the transformative power of gratitude and its profoundly positive impact on work-life balance.
Drawing from the real-life experiences of past podcast guests, I explore how cultivating gratitude has shaped their perspectives, helping them find greater balance between work and everything else in life, and enhancing their overall well-being.
From journaling and meditation, to mindful habits like appreciating the world around them during daily commutes, this Work, Life, Balance Lesson episode uncovers some of the diverse ways that gratitude can be harnessed within a work-life balance context.
Tune in for practical tips and inspiring ideas to cultivate more gratitude in your own life, no matter what work-life balance challenges you're navigating.
RELATED EPISODES:
9: Amanda's Story - On Not Being Career-Oriented, Finding Work-Life Balance as a Musician and Newlywed - Amanda's Story: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Jn2d0OIvDJZ5W3fSeNreJ?si=W1C46eHSQ5SH-eAS0P1zFw
19: Bettina’s Story - on Finding Balance by Turning Your Passion into a Side Hustle: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4h3l1xPlM7dF4nqpnJ0Ddn?si=00b120a70391482d
8: Tom's Story - Finding Balance in Retirement: On Leadership, Imposter Syndrome, and Managing Passions: https://open.spotify.com/episode/31Jv1DnMt76HIX1ZltaUds?si=bb02611f0f8843b0
In this episode, self-employed gardener Joe Roukin, otherwise known as Mr Plant Whisperer, joins me for a candid conversation about his experience as a married dad of two who is the primary carer in his family.
Joe shares his unique perspective on how to strike the right balance between staying organised and ‘going with the flow’, while tackling work-life pressures with a problem-solving mindset.
He opens up about the role that patience plays in his pursuit of balance, and the effectiveness of sometimes "biting your tongue" to avoid conflict, especially when juggling career pursuits and family life.
For someone who spends the majority of his working time outdoors, Joe and I discuss the impact that connecting with nature has on his sense of balance, and how the physical side of his job creates opportunities for him to reflect deeply on all aspects of his life – and how this enhances his sense of balance.
For Joe, a former graphic designer turned teacher, being creative is the common denominator of his work and home-life ambitions. On this, Joe shares some practical advice for other creatives in pursuit of their balance.
Joe’s approach to working fatherhood is refreshingly authentic and pragmatic, and throughout our conversation we explore the notion of partners in a marriage supporting one another to achieve their desired goals, and a balance that works for each one individually.
Tune in on Spotify, Apple or wherever you usually get your podcasts, for an inspiring and uplifting conversation, which covers:
🗂️🌊 Striking a balance between being organised and going with the flow
🧮 Applying a problem-solving mindset to cope with work-life balance pressures
💆🏼♂️ Coping with work-life balance stress by ‘biting your tongue’ to avoid conflict
🕰️ Finding balance when you’re a patient person
🌳 Connecting with nature and spending time outdoors
🧑🎨The pursuit of balance as a creative person, and after leaving the teaching profession
👥 Supporting one another in a marriage to find mutual work-life balance
RELATED EPISODES AND BLOG LINKS:
On Fathers Being the Primary Carer Within a Marriage:
Joe Roukin’s wife Sheara’s Work-Life Balance Profile: “Sheara’s Story – Behind the Movie Scenes: A Tale of Full-Time Working Motherhood”: https://a-fine-balance.com/2020/09/03/work-life-balance-profile-2-sheara-abrahams/
John’s Story – “It’s a Dad’s World”: On fatherhood, Male Primary Care-Giving & Gender Equality: https://a-fine-balance.com/2021/03/21/johns-story-its-a-dads-world-on-fatherhood-male-primary-care-giving-gender-equality/
On Leaving the Teaching Profession:
Laura's Story - On Teenage Pregnancy, Teacher Burnout & Finding Balance When You’re “Busy”: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/05/26/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-season-2-episode-5-out-now/
The rhetoric around work-life balance is often twinned with messaging around self-care and well-being.
And whilst it's true that the end result of improving your work-life balance is usually an enhanced sense of well-being, there are many ways in which a person can get to that point.
And one of those that this episode addresses is working more.
Yes, you read that correctly: this episode explores how you can improve your work-life balance by INCREASING your work load.
In this episode I share some real life examples of people who have done just that, and shared their "work-life balance confession" on the podcast.
I will reflect on how this approach can enhance a person’s sense of balance, how it can be managed well, and what the pitfalls are when it goes wrong too.
Of course, self-care is the most commonly cited way of improving your work-life balance, but let this episode broaden your mind to other possibilities too.
RELATED EPISODES:
On Prioritising Work Over Other Things in Life:
11: Gilles' Story: On Finding Balance as a Career-Driven Family Man, When Work Takes Priority - https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/04/02/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-season-2-episode-3-out-now/
21: Rami's Story: Finding Balance When You’re An Introvert in a Family and Workplace Full of Extroverts - https://a-fine-balance.com/2024/03/13/finding-balance-when-youre-an-introvert-in-a-family-and-workplace-full-of-extroverts-podcast-episode-out-now-season-3-episode-3/
Darren’s Story – Confessions of a Workaholic: https://a-fine-balance.com/2020/08/27/108/
Marsha’s Story – From high-flying professional to stay-at-home-mum: https://a-fine-balance.com/2020/09/23/work-life-balance-profile-3-marsha/
12: Ruth's Story: On Finding Balance When You Want to “Have It All”, Teamwork & Avoiding Stress: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/04/21/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-season-2-episode-4-out-now/8: Tom's Story - Finding Balance in Retirement: https://a-fine-balance.com/2022/06/18/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-episode-8-out-now/
On Reducing Work Load in Pursuit of Balance:
9: Amanda's Story - On Not Being Career-Oriented & Finding Balance as a Musician and a Newlywed: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/02/03/its-official-season-two-of-a-fine-balance-the-podcast-is-live/
16: Sam's Story - On Part-Time Working Fatherhood, Perfectionism & Finding Balance When Living with Cancer: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/12/18/a-fine-balance-the-podcast-season-2-episode-8-out-now/
27: Rebecca’s Story - On Flexible Working, Morning Routines & Finding Balance When You're In Charge: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0DAOBqA2RnyMa19gayV9Iz?si=oAkIO6tdQ3qgOMn_PNlMiQ
The Fine Balance Between Working Hard, and Working Too Hard: https://a-fine-balance.com/2022/05/18/the-fine-balance-between-working-hard-and-working-too-hard/
On Challenging the Term "Work-Life Balance":
What's in a Name?
https://a-fine-balance.com/2021/09/05/whats-in-a-name/
What the hell is “work-life balance” anyway? https://a-fine-balance.com/2024/10/11/what-the-hell-is-work-life-balance-anyway/
This solo episode is dedicated to an anonymous "Work-Life Balance Confession" of a woman named Kerry (*not her real name), who did not want to reveal her identity.
Kerry's work-life balance story originally featured on the blog, and centred on the themes of finding a work-life balance when:
📋You have a never-ending ‘to-do list’
🤰You're a solo parent (Kerry pursued IVF with a sperm donor, so is raising her son independently)
🧑🧒You have a child with additional needs
💯You're a Perfectionist
👯♀️You're in a job-share
Kerry brings a new dimension to the work:life ratio I ask all my guests to reflect on, inserting the element of “play”, which for her has been lacking since becoming a mother:“It never feels like a day when I don’t have lots to do. Where is the fun? Where is the play?”
A reminder, if ever we need one, of how joy is so intrinsic to the pursuit of balance.
RELATED EPISODES AND BLOG LINKS:
Write-up of my original interview with Kerry: https://a-fine-balance.com/2023/06/07/finding-balance-when-the-to-do-list-is-never-done-kerrys-story-on-solo-motherhood-job-sharing-and-the-lure-of-the-expatriate-lifestyle/
On being a high-achiever and perfectionist:
38: How to Find a Work-Life Balance When You're a Perfectionist - Work, Life, Balance Lesson #8Work-Life Balance Confessions: Stories and Tips to Enlighten and Inspire How to Juggle What Matters
10: On Finding Balance in Grief, Being a High-Achiever & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome-Katie's Story Work-Life Balance Confessions: Stories and Tips to Enlighten and Inspire How to Juggle What Matters
On Single Parenting:
2: On competitiveness, co-parenting & surviving job loss - Jhilmil’s Story Work-Life Balance Confessions: Stories and Tips to Enlighten and Inspire How to Juggle What Matters
Perfectionism is often seen as a hindrance to work-lifebalance. After all, the dictionary defines a perfectionist as someone "not satisfied with anything less than perfect" - a mindset that can easily lead to burnout.
In this episode, I explore insights from podcast interviewswhere perfectionism (or the lack of it) has come up. I’ll share the key lessons I've learned along the way, including:
⭐️ 3 essential work-life balance take-aways from people who describe resisting perfectionism
⭐️ Practical strategies for perfectionists to strike a healthier balance
⭐️ Real-life examples of how perfectionism can both hinder and enhance work-life harmony
Below are some links to other episodes referenced in the show. If you’d like to share your story of work-life balance and perfectionism, get in touch at info@a-fine-balance.com.
RELATED EPISODES:
On Being a Perfectionist:
10: On Finding Balance in Grief, Being a High-Achiever &Overcoming Imposter Syndrome-Katie's Story:https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/sNiDQWnqiQb
23: On Housekeeping, Middle Age & Finding Work-LifeBalance When Your Marriage Ends - Helen’s Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/work-life-balance-confessions-stories-and-tips-to/id1570430336?i=1000652002324.
On Resisting Perfectionism:
6: “Single & Childfree by Choice”. On boundary-setting& doing what makes you happy - Laurie’s Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/a-fine-balance/id1570430336?i=1000553872664
16: On Part-Time Working Fatherhood, Perfectionism &Finding Balance With Cancer-Sam's Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/work-life-balance-confessions-stories-and-tips-to/id1570430336?i=1000638884267
27: On Flexible Working, Morning Routines & FindingBalance When You Like To Be In Charge - Rebecca’s Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/a-fine-balance/id1570430336?i=1000659563287
On Burnout:
3: On burnout and finding balance in the early stages ofworking life - Tahmid’s Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/a-fine-balance/id1570430336?i=1000537016359
25: On Work-Life Balance in Marketing and Corporate Jobs,Having Fun & Asking For Help - Dan’s Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/a-fine-balance/id1570430336?i=1000656335982
35: On Panic Attacks, Career Changes and Regaining BalanceAfter Hitting Rock Bottom - Routh's Story: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/a-fine-balance/id1570430336?i=1000679434706
In this episode of A Fine Balance, we explore some serious life challenges that can impact a person's work-life balance, through the personal story of my guest Lorna McKenna.
Lorna works full-time in local government, alongside running her passion project of coaching and hosting a personal development podcast called "Evolve & Expand". She is also expecting her first child so is on the cusp of some pretty seismic changes in 2025.
Throughout our conversation, we cover:
💰Lorna's personal journey through debt - the anxiety and shame that came with it, and how it challenged her sense of balance.
🫦What it’s like to struggle with body image and the impact that this, and perpetually striving to lose weight, can have on a person’s work-life balance and mental well-being.
👥Lorna's experience of being let go from a role she had fully invested herself into. This shifted her work-life balance perspective profoundly as she faced the stark reality that "everyone is replaceable ".
🕰️ Plus, we dive into practical tips on how freeing up your schedule can create more balance in both work and home life.
As the first podcast episode of the year and the Season, Lorna and I talk about new beginnings and she shares some wise words on embracing change and new beginnings. I hope the ideas that she shares supports listeners as they consider what finding a work-life balance in 2025 means to them.
RELATED EPISODES:
On diary management and scheduling:
27: On Flexible Working, Morning Routines, and How To Find a Work-Life Balance When You Like to Be In Charge: Rebecca Newenham's Story: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/dalya-wittenberg2/episodes/27-On-Flexible-Working--Morning-Routines--Finding-Balance-When-Youre-In-Charge---Rebeccas-Story-e2jd8tu/a-aaoejho
On debt and financial worries:
25: On Work-Life Balance in Marketing and Corporate Jobs, Having Fun & Asking for Help - Dan Knowlton's Story: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/dalya-wittenberg2/episodes/25-On-Work-Life-Balance-in-Marketing-and-Corporate-Jobs--Having-Fun--Asking-For-Help---Dans-Story-e2i8717/a-aaoejho
You can listen to my interview on Lorna's podcast, "Evolve & Expand", here: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/lorna-mckenna/episodes/83-Creating-Your-Own-Version-of-Balance-with-Dalya-Wittenberg-e2hmns6/a-ab47245
In the spirit of the upcoming holidays, this episode of “A Fine Balance” touches on the past, present and future of the podcast.
On the past, I take a look back at what prompted me to create a podcast that delves into the subject of how different people pursue their balance between work and everything else in life.
On the present, I share a gift that’s available right now for any listeners curious to explore where you stand in balancing your work with everything else in life: the Work, Life, Balance Self-Assessment tool.
To download the self-assessment for free from the website go to www.a-fine-balance.com, and for guidance on how to get use it to its full effect, check out Episode 34: Work, Life, Balance Self-Assessment: a Tool for Reflecting on Your Personal Pursuit of Balance
And finally, looking ahead to the future, I share a few teasers on what’s to come in Season 4 of the podcast, which is due to launch in 2025.
Wishing all my listeners an enjoyable holiday period, and one that enables you to find a sense of balance, whatever that means for you.
You can read more about the podcast's backstory on these blog posts:
A Fine Balance - A Fine Balance © A Fine Balance
Lockdown 2.0: The Next Chapter - A Fine Balance © A Fine Balance
Work-Life Balance Profiles: An Introduction - A Fine Balance © A Fine Balance
9/11 marked a dramatic turning point in the working life of this episode's guest, Routh Chadwick, a New York resident who at the time was an aspiring actress.
The career changes that evolved from thereon maintained a degree of drama, as Routh went on to train as a clinical social worker and counsellor.
From TV sets as a counsellor on the Jeremy Kyle show, to caring for patients on the psych ward, Routh's work-life balance limits were tested, leading her to set the boundaries she has in place today between her work and everything else in life.
In this episode, as well as hearing her own fascinating work-life balance story , Routh shares her professional expertise on the pursuit of balance, including:
*The impact that smartphones and social media have on the pursuit of balance
*Recovering from experiencing panic attacks at work
*Overcoming burn-out
*Finding a balance between being a creative, and seeking stability
*The pursuit of balance when you're child-free
RELATED EPISODES:
On finding balance when you have a smartphone and engage in social media:
https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/G61tbY7G5Ob
https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/0UjjK17G5Ob
On being child-free:
https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/uN3C77hH5Ob
On burn-out:
https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/xjHWFdiH5Ob
https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/xUBeNc8G5Ob
https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/RU0kHOoH5Ob
This podcast episode is a quick introduction and guide to a new tool, which has recently launched on the website, www.a-fine-balance.com, called the "Work, Life, Balance Self-Assessment".
If you've downloaded the self-assessment, or are considering doing it, then take a listen to this episode to get some ideas about how to complete the assessment, what to bear in mind as you do, and for some additional questions to prompt more in-depth introspection.
If you'd like to share your experience of completing the Work, Life, Balance Self-Assessment, then get in touch as info@a-fine-balance.com.
In this episode of A Fine Balance – The Podcast, I’m joined by Faust Ruggiero, a US-based therapist and author whose career spans over 35 years of working with people from all walks of life. From his time in clinics, prisons, and inpatient facilities to his role as a consultant for major corporations, Faust brings a wealth of knowledge and practical insight.
Throughout our conversation, Faust introduces his “process life program,” a method he developed to help people find inner balance across four key areas: physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual.
He also shares his personal journey of balancing a full-time practice with raising four children, leading to the creation of The Fix Yourself Empowerment Series—a collection of guides focused on overcoming common struggles like anxiety, depression, and anger.
This episode is for you if:
- You're interested in reflecting on what balance really means, both in work and in life;
- You'd like to learn some tips for creating a sense of calm and stability from within;
- You work as a therapist and would like to understand the work-life balance challenges that like-minded professionals contend with and how they overcome them.
If this episode resonates with you, you may also want to check out Episode #7 from our back catalogue: Five Steps to Improve Your Work-Life Balance - with Annabel Jeffcoate https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dalya-wittenberg2/episodes/7-BONUS-EPISODE-Five-Steps-to-Improve-Your-Work-Life-Balance---with-Annabel-Jeffcoate-e1gvjkt
As we approach the end of 2024, this will be the last interview episode of Season 3 of A Fine Balance – The Podcast.
We’ll be back in 2025 with more in-depths interviews from people of all backgrounds, professions, occupations, and stages of life. Some will have found their work-life balance sweet spot; others will still be in pursuit of balance. All of them, no doubt, will have lessons to share, which I look forward to exploring more of in the new year too.
Meanwhile, I hope listeners enjoy this final interview episode of 2024, which was recorded back in the summer, featuring a work-life balance pro who offers some tangible and practical advice on how to find that sweet balance spot.
You can join the online 'A Fine Balance' community by looking up our page on LinkedIn, and following @afinebalance_podcast on Instagram.
Does escaping the rat race improve work-life balance?
What does it take to make this work-life balance choice work?
Does it afford a person a less stressful lifestyle overall?
And why don’t more people go for it?
This is the episode for you if...
⭐️ You’re finding the pace of city living stressful, overwhelming and lacking purpose
⭐️ You’ve always wondered what it would be like to move away from the city and base yourself somewhere closer to places of natural beauty
⭐️You’re generally interested in learning from how other people find a balance between work and everything else in life
With days drawing dark earlier, and an autumnal chill in the air, the summer holidays already feel like a distant memory. But I'm holding on to some of the benefits that I felt from taking a break from my usual work and home routine to go on a family holiday, and to think about work-life balance from a different perspective.
In this episode, I reflect on the lessons I learned about:
The episode includes four short stories of people that I encoutered who had made (and raved about!) this work-life balance choice.
I then reflect on the Work, Life, Balance Lessons they taught me, considering these lessons through the prism of three key pillars I’ve concluded are essential to achieving a personal balance:
individuality, fluidity, and intentionality
For me, this Work, Life, Balance Lesson emphasises the importance of recognising the value of things in life that bring you joy, and the benefits of making time for them - making them a priority. That doesn’t always feel manageable when you’re busy chasing city dreams and deadlines. But, I've learned, it is possible. And it is worth it.
For more, go to www.a-fine-balance.com/podcast.
