Motherhood is full of contradictions. You’re never truly alone -- kids, partners, colleagues are always nearby -- yet it can feel like one of the loneliest seasons of life.

In this conversation, I sit down with Kate Westlund Tovsen, communications consultant and founder of The Society of Working Moms (SOWM), to talk about why working motherhood so often feels isolating and what it takes to build the kind of community we all crave.

Kate shares the story behind creating SOWM, an online Slack-based community designed to be a real village for women navigating both careers and motherhood. We dig into the surprising ways digital connections can become lifelines, how to overcome the hesitation of engaging in online spaces, and why vulnerability is the secret ingredient to building real support.

We also explore:

• Why motherhood can feel more isolating than expected—even when you’re surrounded by people.
• The value of connecting with women at different stages of life and motherhood.
• How digital communities can replicate the generational wisdom that many of us are missing.
• Practical ways to use your voice, share what you need, and start building your own village.
• Stories of how small acts of honesty and courage sparked meaningful connection inside SOWM.

If you’ve ever felt like your “village” is missing, this episode is for you. Whether online or offline, connection is possible, and it often starts with one brave step.

Links and resources:

• Connect with Kate on LinkedIn

• Learn more about The Society of Working Moms: working-moms.com