Episode 37 – Redefining Working Motherhood with Priya Shah

In this episode, Cyndi Manuel and Linda Misegadis sit down with returning guest Priya Shah, founder of Shah Squared, to explore the evolving reality of being a working mother and a business leader in today’s workplace.

Priya shares her personal journey balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood while offering candid insights on setting boundaries, building self-awareness, and redefining success beyond outdated societal expectations. They also discuss Gen Z’s influence, HR’s evolving role, and the need for intentional community-building among women leaders.

✨ Topics Covered:
✔️ Realities of working motherhood
✔️ The importance of hybrid flexibility
✔️ Creating supportive HR structures
✔️ Cultural and generational pressures on women
✔️ Priya’s “And Life Project” for community empowerment

🔗 Resources:
Priya Shah Website: shahsquared.com
LinkedIn: Priya Shah Strategist
Her Resources Podcast: herresourcespodcast.com
Additional links: linktr.ee/hrpodcast

🎨 Logo and social media support by intern Lauren Banas
🎧 Produced by LJM Productions

⏰ Timestamps:

00:00 - Priya’s Honest Reflections on Motherhood & Career Ambitions

01:00 - Show Introduction & One-Year Podcast Anniversary

03:00 - Reintroducing Priya Shah & Her Professional Journey

06:55 - What Being a Working Mom Means to Priya 08:45 - Stats on Working Mothers in the U.S.

10:00 - Generational Shifts in Workplace Perceptions of Motherhood

12:20 - The Influence of Gen Z on Workplace Expectations

14:00 - Critique of "Lean In" and Unrealistic Expectations for Women

17:00 - How Organizations Should Approach Returning Mothers

19:00 - COVID’s Impact on Remote & Hybrid Work for Women

21:30 - Setting Boundaries: Priya’s Keys to Balance and Productivity

23:30 - How HR & Leaders Can Better Support Working Moms

26:30 - Challenges for Small Business Owners Providing Parental Support

30:30 - Priya on Gradual Return to Work and Mental Health Awareness

33:00 - Why Some Women are Delaying or Opting Out of Motherhood

36:00 - Evolving Views on Motherhood & Career Timing

38:00 - Priya’s Advice: Self-Awareness, Adaptability, & Patience for Working Moms

42:00 - The Cultural & Societal Pressures on Modern Women

44:30 - The Importance of Community & Priya’s "And Life Project"

46:20 - How to Connect with Priya Shah & Closing Thoughts