Shows
Babies and BoardroomsChildcare Struggles to Workplace Wins: Moms Set BoundariesIn this candid and empowering episode, hosts Larissa Santos and Tarrah Lee tackle the unfiltered realities of juggling demanding careers and motherhood. From navigating sudden nanny exits to orchestrating epic pre-K graduation celebrations, they share raw, relatable stories of mental overload, family-first priorities, and workplace challenges. The duo explores the emotional weight of childcare transitions, the strength found in community support, and the power of setting firm boundaries at work. They debunk stigmas that undermine working moms, reframing motherhood as a dynamic superpower that drives unmatched efficiency, empathy, and leadership.Discover creative childcare strategies, learn h...2025-05-2146 minBabies and BoardroomsWorking Mom Wins - Secrets to Thriving with Karen Siddiqi, Customer Success LeaderIn this can’t-miss episode, hosts Larissa Santos and Tarrah Lee chat with Karen Siddiqi—Partner Success Leader at Five9, mom of two, and master of juggling it all. Karen spills the tea on thriving through global leadership gigs, job switches, and parenting with a husband gone 70% of the time. Think real talk: saying “no” to classroom crafts, dodging workplace nonsense, and even stepping back from leading 250 people to put family first.With her multi-generational crew and mom squad in her corner, Karen’s built a support system that actually works. She’s dropping gems—like how to set boundar...2025-03-3052 minBabies and BoardroomsWorking Mom Wins - Secrets to Thriving with Karen Siddiqi, Customer Success LeaderIn this can’t-miss episode, hosts Larissa Santos and Tarrah Lee chat with Karen Siddiqi—Partner Success Leader at Five9, mom of two, and master of juggling it all. Karen spills the tea on thriving through global leadership gigs, job switches, and parenting with a husband gone 70% of the time. Think real talk: saying “no” to classroom crafts, dodging workplace nonsense, and even stepping back from leading 250 people to put family first.With her multi-generational crew and mom squad in her corner, Karen’s built a support system that actually works. She’s dropping gems—like how to set boundar...2025-03-2752 minBabies and BoardroomsReclaiming Balance: Partnership + Managing the Mental LoadHave you ever felt like you’re spinning in a whirlwind, juggling work, parenting, and a never-ending to-do list? You’re not alone. In this episode of Babies and Boardrooms, we dive into the mental load that comes with motherhood, exploring why it’s so exhausting, how it affects our relationships, and what can be done to create a more balanced partnership.Tarrah and Larissa share their personal experiences of living with the imbalance—whether it’s managing household chores or taking on the emotional labor as the “default parent.” They discuss the invisible work that often goes unacknowl...2025-02-1947 minBabies and BoardroomsFrom Corporate to Calling: Changing Lives in Foster Care with Susan Ramirez of National AngelsIn this inspiring episode, Tarrah and Larissa welcome Susan Ramirez, the founder and CEO of National Angels, a nonprofit dedicated to changing the lives of children, youth, and families experiencing foster care. Under Susan’s leadership, National Angels has evolved into a high-impact, results-driven organization, expanding to 21 chapters across 15 states.Susan shares her powerful journey, beginning with a pivotal moment at a foster care conference in 2010 that led her to leave her corporate career and become a full-time advocate for foster youth. She opens up about the heartbreaking realities of the foster system – from the emotional and psyc...2025-02-0453 minBabies and BoardroomsStarting the New Year with PurposeHappy New Year from the Babies and Boardrooms Podcast. Tarrah and Larissa talk about their holiday experiences and what they hope to achieve in 2025. They mention building snowmen in Toronto, going on tropical adventures, and RV explorations as some of the magic family trips. It has been brought to light that such moments create long-lasting memories, and not material gifts, and it is such moments that define the lives of children.Tarrah and Larissa both share their traditions for reflecting on the past year and planning for the future. They dive into their methods for setting intentions...2025-01-1544 minBabies and BoardroomsUnlock Your Career - Insider Tips from Former Talent Manager, Casey MagoulasIn this episode, Tarrah and Larissa were joined by Casey Magoulas, a former HR leader at Cisco, who shares her own recent experience of being laid off and navigating today's ultra-competitive job market. With applicant tracking systems fueled by AI now flooding recruiters with applications, Casey explains why it's harder and more important than ever to stand out.Together, they dive into the power of personal branding, especially on LinkedIn. Casey breaks down what focusing on your own brand can do for you versus not just the company you might be representing. From putting together engaging content...2025-01-031h 23Babies and BoardroomsVeteran's Day - The Reality of Veteran Career Transition and Military LifeThis special Veterans Day episode of the Babies and Boardrooms podcast features host Tarrah and her husband, former Army Special Forces Green Beret Veteran, Justin Lee. Justin opens up about his military background, the reality of the transition into the cvilian world, and the personal challenges faced during this monumental change. Justin draws from personal experiences in the military - having seen the implications that deployments have on family life emotionally and how hard it is for a Veteran to transition to another career after being in the military. Justin progresses through the healing journey by presenting alt...2024-11-1156 minBabies and BoardroomsVeteran’s Day – The Reality of Veteran Career Transition and Military LifeThis special Veterans Day episode of the Babies and Boardrooms podcast features host Tarrah and her husband, former Army Special Forces Green Beret Veteran, Justin Lee. Justin opens up about his military background, the reality of the transition into the cvilian world, and the personal challenges faced during this monumental change. Justin draws from personal experiences in the military - having seen the implications that deployments have on family life emotionally and how hard it is for a Veteran to transition to another career after being in the military. Justin progresses through the healing journey by presenting alt...2024-11-1159 minBabies and BoardroomsLet's Get Real: Real Life Challenges of Working MomsOn today’s episode of the Babies in Boardrooms podcast, Larissa and Tarrah talk about the realities and biggest challenges they are currently facing as working Mom's. They have real, soulful conversations about keeping their careers together with family life. Larissa shares the challenges of surviving hurricanes and burnout, Tarrah shares her experience going from two to three children and how the family and work dynamic completely shifted after her 3rd was born. They talk about the importance of self-care and drawing lines in challenging situations like maternity leaves, calendars and shifts in management. They also discuss everything from go...2024-10-3154 minBabies and BoardroomsLead with More Confidence - Guest Kelli ThompsonTarrah and Larissa welcome their first guest on the Babies and Boardrooms Podcast, Kelli Thompson, an award-winning corporate coach and author of Closing The Confidence Gap: Boost Your Peace, Your Potential & Your Paycheck. They address how women can question outmoded leadership stereotypes and openly embrace their unique skills. With a focus on women's issues, including gender bias and "mom discrimination" in the workplace, Kelli provides solutions for overcoming imposter syndrome, developing executive presence, and overcoming other obstacles faced by women. Don't miss this motivational talk that will encourage you to take the lead confidently and leave a lasting impression...2024-10-0955 minBabies and BoardroomsLayoffs are Coming - Now What?In this lively and candid episode of the Babies and Boardrooms, Larissa and Tarrah dive into the chaotic realities of balancing work, family, and personal wellness. Larissa shares her morning struggles, from a workout-induced prom updo to managing her household while prepping for a major sales conference in Vegas. The conversation shifts to the pressures of corporate life amidst impending layoffs, where both hosts discuss the emotional toll of uncertainty and the importance of staying adaptable in evolving work environments. They emphasize self-care, continuous learning, and the need to advocate for one's career progression. Whether you're a working parent...2024-08-2837 minBabies and BoardroomsAdvocating for Your Kids Education - ChoicesIn this episode of Babies and Boardrooms, Tarrah and Larissa dive into the complexities of modern education choices for children, particularly focusing on alternative learning environments. They discuss their personal journeys in selecting schools that cater to their children's unique needs, emphasizing hands-on, experiential learning approaches like Montessori and nature-based programs. They also highlight the importance of advocating for your child's educational needs and working closely with teachers to create a supportive environment. The conversation explores how non-traditional schooling can foster resilience, practical knowledge, and a love for learning, especially for active children who thrive in settings beyond the...2024-08-1444 min
Babies and BoardroomsCurve Balls are our Middle NameIn this episode of the Babies and Boardrooms podcast, Tarrah and Larissa open up about the unexpected challenges and life changes they've faced during their recent hiatus. They discuss the importance of building supportive communities that understand the unpredictability of life and the need for grace during tough times. They also dig into personal stories of managing work, family, and self-care amidst chaos. Tarrah shares her experience of moving, dealing with her children’s severe illness, and transitioning to a new job, while also coping with other challenges. Larissa, on the other hand, talks about navigating the complexities of co...2024-06-2750 min
Babies and BoardroomsResilience, Grit and DriveIn this engaging episode of the Babies and Boardrooms podcast, Tarrah and Larissa delve into a wide lineup of topics, offering insights into their lives and experiences. They begin by discussing the challenges of multitasking and maintaining a work-life balance, touching on the intricacies of juggling parenthood and professional responsibilities. Tarrah shares her strategies for looking her best on camera while managing a busy schedule, including the convenience of volume lashes and the necessity of adapting makeup choices for different situations.The conversation evolves to explore the importance of nurturing creativity and imagination in children, with both...2024-04-0549 minBabies and BoardroomsNavigating Layoffs and Job LossIn this episode, Tarrah and Larissa have an unscripted conversation about the recent limited restructuring (LR), or layoffs, at their company. They reflect on the emotional impact it has had on them and their colleagues, discussing feelings of rawness, empathy for those affected, and the challenges of navigating uncertainty.They share personal experiences and insights into coping mechanisms, such as holding space for those impacted, evaluating financial contingencies, and reframing the situation as an opportunity for growth and self-reflection. They emphasize the importance of articulating one's value, both for those remaining at the company and those seeking...2024-02-2735 minBabies and BoardroomsThriving in Both Motherhood and CareerIn this episode, Larissa and Tarrah discuss the challenges and expectations faced by working moms. They share personal experiences of navigating motherhood while prioritizing both their careers and family life. The conversation was prompted by a listener's message, expressing concerns about societal narratives suggesting that women can't successfully balance having children and pursuing a career.The hosts emphasize the importance of individual priorities and choices, challenging the prevailing narrative that suggests women must choose between a successful career or being a mother. They share anecdotes of facing difficult situations, such as dealing with a child's health issues...2024-02-0541 minBabies and BoardroomsHoliday Recap - Finding What Truly MattersWelcome back to the Babies and Boardrooms Podcast! In this episode, Tarrah and Larissa discuss their experiences during the holiday season, reflecting on various celebrations like Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year's. They explore the importance of understanding the cultural and spiritual aspects of different holidays, emphasizing the need to focus on the true meanings rather than getting caught up in commercialization.The hosts delve into the topic of Santa Claus, sharing their approaches to incorporating the belief in Santa while teaching their children about diversity in beliefs. They touch on the challenges and joys of navigating the...2024-01-1146 minBabies and BoardroomsBearing the Mental Load: Co-Parenting and PartnershipWelcome back to the Babies and Boardrooms Podcast! In today’s episode, Tarrah introduces their first guest, who happens to be her four-week-old baby boy. Tarrah and Larissa share their enthusiasm for baby-wearing, emphasizing its benefits for regulating the baby's nervous system. The conversation takes a turn when Tarrah discusses the recent challenges she faced after her baby was diagnosed with viral meningitis at just eight days old. She recounts the panic, confusion, and support they received from their communities during this difficult time.The discussion then shifts to co-parenting dynamics, specifically addressing the challenges faced by si...2023-11-1659 minBabies and BoardroomsThe Realities of Remote WorkIn today’s episode, Larissa and Tarrah dive into the world of remote work and its challenges and perks. They discuss the importance of boundaries, the flexibility that remote work offers, and the changing perception of remote work post-COVID. Tarrah and Larissa emphasize the need to prioritize and maintain a work-life balance, sharing personal experiences and insights along the way. They also touch on the benefits of taking breaks, staying active, and the evolving norms in the remote work landscape.Throughout the episode, Larissa and Tara stress the significance of performance over rigid work hours and the im...2023-10-0459 minBabies and BoardroomsInfertility, High Risk Pregnancy and Finding Companies with Amazing Family Planning Benefits!In this episode of The Babies and Boardroom Podcast, Tarrah and Larissa share their personal experiences with pregnancy at work, infertility, and high-risk pregnancies. Tarrah discusses her journey through multiple miscarriages and fertility struggles, highlighting the importance of advocating for necessary medical tests and treatments. She also emphasizes the significance of supportive workplace benefits, such as fertility coverage and maternity leave, in helping her achieve successful pregnancies.Larissa, on the other hand, shares her story of becoming pregnant while at a high-stress point in her career, navigating the challenges of work and pregnancy simultaneously. She discusses how...2023-09-141h 01Babies and BoardroomsCycle Breakers - Overcoming Generational and Childhood Trauma as AdultsIn this episode, Larissa and Tarrah engage in a candid discussion about their personal experiences with generational and childhood trauma, offering insights into how they navigated these challenges and ultimately broke the cycle. Larissa shares her background of growing up in foster care from the age of nine, enduring physical, emotional, and mental abuse. She emphasizes the dual nature of her trauma, stemming both from her biological family and the foster care system, where she felt like a commodity. Despite the hardships, she pursued education, secured scholarships, and transitioned from teaching into corporate America, highlighting her determination to overcome...2023-08-291h 02Babies and BoardroomsBusy Mom's Guide to Health and WellnessIn today’s episode of The Babies and Boardrooms Podcast, Tarrah and Larissa delve into their personal journeys of health, wellness, healing, and parenting. Tarrah discusses her path from childhood struggles with weight and emotional eating to losing a significant amount of weight, entering the fitness industry, and eventually developing an unhealthy body image and an eating disorder. She emphasizes her journey towards healing, where she redefined her focus on holistic health, mental well-being, and strength rather than aesthetics.Tarrah also explains her experience with adrenal fatigue, the importance of listening to your body, and adopting a li...2023-08-1659 minBabies and BoardroomsNavigating Single Motherhood + CareerIn today’s episode, Larissa and Tarrah begin with a candid discussion about the challenges they are facing personally, highlighting the importance of acknowledging difficult times even while offering advice to others. They stress the significance of having a toolbox filled with coping mechanisms and strategies to navigate through tough periods.The main topic of the episode revolves around handling career and mom life as a single parent, with Larissa recently going through a divorce. She shares her experiences of transitioning into a new leadership role at work during this challenging time. The emotional and physical toll of...2023-07-3155 minBabies and BoardroomsThe 'Buckets' of LifeEpisode 2 - 'The Buckets of Life'Welcome to another episode of the Babies and Boardrooms Podcast, where we dive into the myth of doing it all and uncover the secrets to finding balance in our busy lives. In today's episode, Larissa and Tarrah engage in a candid conversation about their experiences and the challenges they face while juggling multiple responsibilities.The conversation begins with a glimpse into Larissa's chaotic day, as she shares the struggles of preparing for her friend's visit while dealing with a missed appointment and the overwhelming task of maintaining h...2023-07-1756 minBabies and BoardroomsWelcome to Babies and Boardrooms!Episode 1 - Welcome to Babies and Boardrooms!Welcome to Babies and Boardrooms Podcast, a podcast hosted by Larissa Santos and Tarrah Lee. In this podcast, Larissa and Tarrah, both senior leaders at a global technology firm, share their insights and experiences as working moms in the professional world. They aim to help other working moms not just survive, but thrive in their personal and professional lives.Larissa, an innovative thought leader, is a single mom and a soon-to-be-published author. Her passion lies in inspiring and empowering women to embrace their unique...2023-07-0353 min