Heavy Lifting
It is the norm now. Virtual meetings have become necessary to conduct business during this time of social distancing and remote working. Recently, I was on a Zoom call with our leadership team and I noticed that there were some on the call who were displaying enormous leadership traits during the meeting. The mom leaders on the call could be seen navigating their children while staying engaged and contributing to the business at hand. I have no idea how they did this. The ability to juggle several balls and still lead effectively is truly a skill of great leaders.
Melissa Jackson is one of those leaders. I am constantly impressed by her ability to parent her beautiful eight year old daughter while serving as the co-founder and President of our company. Her relentless desire for excellence is evident to all those who work with her and who know her personally. She has led our team through the rough waters of COVID, quarantine and civil unrest. She accomplished this while managing to guide her child through creating school at home and providing a safe haven during these days of uncertainty. She is constantly balancing the roles of leading as a wife, mom, and business executive.
I realize that many mom (and dad) leaders are experiencing very similar challenges. I also realize that most are probably undervalued and not appropriately appreciated. That’s why I invited Melissa to join me on our Crossing the Line podcast. I wanted to learn about these hard working, courageous, vital leaders who are doing the heavy lifting of leading every day.
I warn you that this episode is about much more than moms or even women in leadership. It contains valuable insight that all leaders can apply to their lives personally and professionally. It also reminds us that there are tireless leaders managing their homes and their professions who are truly making a difference.
Larry
