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Is Work-Life Balance a Lie for Working Mothers? - E17

Published on: 3rd February, 2026

Mona and Minali have a deeply honest and insightful conversation with Amy Van Dorp, Executive Director of WithIt. They explore the reality of caregiving, motherhood, and career decisions through the lived experience of Amy. From navigating multiple careers to raising three children, one with special needs, Amy shares what balance really looks like behind the scenes. This conversation dives into working motherhood, financial trade-offs, mom guilt, special needs advocacy, and the power of building strong support systems. With wisdom, vulnerability, and encouragement for new and seasoned parents alike, this episode reframes success, leadership, and self-care through the lens of caregiving. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to “do it all,” this episode will remind you that grace, not perfection, is the real goal.

Key Timestamps:

(00:00) – Why “balance” is a myth for working parents

(03:00) – Freelancing, childcare costs, and early career tradeoffs

(04:00) – Navigating special needs diagnoses and caregiving logistics

(09:00) – Social pressure, grief, and redefining success as a parent

(11:00) – Mom guilt, resilience, and giving kids individual attention

(13:00) – Self-care, support systems, and asking for help

(14:30) – Advice to younger parents: give yourself grace

(16:00) – Resources, employment programs, and advocacy for special needs adults

Key Topics Discussed:

Three Takes, Ishana Nigam, Minali Nigam, Mona Nigam, Caregiving and Career Decisions, Working Motherhood, Special Needs Parenting, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Women in Leadership, Mentorship for Women, WITHIT Organization, Freelancing as a Parent, Childcare Cost Tradeoffs, Mom Guilt, Parental Resilience, Servant Leadership, Self-Care for Caregivers, Parenting Through Life Stages, Support Systems for Families, Special Needs Resources, Project Search Program, Advocacy for Special Needs Adults, Leadership Lessons from Caregiving

Mentions:

Amy’s Website: https://withit.org/

Amy’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyvandorp


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About the Podcast

Three Takes: 3 Women, 3 Generations, 1 Family Unpacking the Questions We All Ask
A Gen X mom and her Millennial & Gen Z daughters share real conversations on career, wellness, family, and growth
Welcome to Three Takes, a multi-generational podcast hosted by Mona and her daughters, Minali and Ishana, representing Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z perspectives. Together, they explore the intersection of career, wellness, and family life, providing authentic conversations and valuable insights to empower women in their work, life, and relationships.
Each episode dives into a thought-provoking question, as they share their unique 'takes' on a diverse range of topics, from navigating professional challenges to fostering personal growth and maintaining healthy relationships. More than just a podcast, Three Takes is a shared space for us to evolve together as a growing community, inviting listeners to reflect and connect.