Having It All: A Fresh, Evidence-Based Perspective on Work and Family Life with Dr. Corinne Low

Sep 25, 2025

Dr. Corinne Low, an associate professor at the Wharton School and author of 'Having It All,' shares her insights on the challenges faced by working mothers. She discusses the rising parenting demands and the concept of invisible labor that often falls to women. Corinne suggests using data tracking to distribute household chores more equitably and emphasizes the importance of self-care and aligning personal values with professional goals. Her practical exercises guide listeners to prioritize their needs and achieve a fulfilling work-life balance.

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INSIGHT

Parenting Time Has Intensified

Parenting time exploded since the 1990s due to better knowledge of child development.
These high-return parenting activities are time-intensive and changed what “good parenting” demands.

ANECDOTE

Calm Presence Beats Perfection

Corinne noticed her relationship with her son improved when she met her own needs.
Her calm presence mattered more to her child than perfect but frantic parenting tasks.

ADVICE

Track Time To Reveal Invisible Labor

Track each partner's time to reveal the invisible household labor and cut through defensiveness.
Use the data to reallocate tasks rather than rely on perceptions or feelings.

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Dr. Corinne Low, a renowned associate professor at the Wharton School, joins us this week on the Do Good to Lead Well podcast. Drawing from her latest book, "Having It All: What Data Tells Us About Women's Lives and Getting the Most Out of Yours," Dr. Low explores the unique challenges faced by working mothers today. She candidly shares her personal experiences and rigorous research findings to offer evidence-based strategies for managing time pressures and empowering working mothers.

Our conversation navigates through the shifting dynamics of parenting from the 1980s to today, underlining the significance of quality time with children against the backdrop of demanding societal standards. We dive into the nuanced topic of invisible labor, predominantly shouldered by mothers, and propose effective tools like data tracking for couples to evenly distribute household responsibilities. By encouraging open dialogue around these issues, the goal of her book is to foster a more equitable division of labor that enhances family dynamics and personal well-being.

The episode also emphasizes the critical role of self-care and intentionality in relationships, with a special focus on mothers striving to "have it all." Dr. Low provides practical exercises to help listeners reconnect with their values, prioritize their own needs, and achieve a fulfilling work-life balance. She challenges traditional notions of success, urging listeners to align their personal values with professional goals for a truly rewarding career and life. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion filled with strategies for personal growth and a more balanced approach to work and family life.

What You’ll Learn

- The evolving landscape of gender economics and the pressures on working mothers.

- Strategies to tackle invisible labor and foster equitable household responsibilities.

- The significance of self-care and intentionality for personal and parenting relationships.

- Aligning your values with your time; at work and at home.

- Insights into redefining success in the modern family context.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – What is the Meaning of “Having It All?”

(07:29) – High-Quality Time and the Costs of Invisible Labor

(19:30) – Asking the Right Questions of Ourselves and Our Partners

(23:35) – The Importance of Self-Care in Relationships

(35:28) – The Science and Practice of Work-Life Balance

(42:38) – Building A Values-Based Roadmap in Work and in Life

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Gender Economics, Work-Life Balance, Working Mothers, Gender Roles, Invisible Labor, Personal Well-being, Self-Care, Flexible Work Schedules, Career Goals, Personal Growth, Parenting, Leisure Time, Structural Dynamics, Reflection Questions, Personal and Professional Growth, CEO Success