Finding Balance as a Working Boy Mom: A conversation with Denise Tallcott
Nov 10, 2025
The Truth About “Balance”
Let’s be honest, balance sounds amazing, but most days it feels impossible. Between work, sports, school, laundry, and trying to get actual sleep, it’s no wonder moms feel like they’re always behind.
But what if we’re chasing the wrong version of balance?
In this week’s episode of Raising Boys, Building Men, leadership coach Denise Tallcott joins Heidi to talk about redefining what balance really means and how to stop beating ourselves up for not doing it all.
Stop Being So Mean to Yourself
Most moms speak to themselves in ways they’d never speak to anyone else. Denise challenges us to notice the stories we tell ourselves, especially when things feel hard.
When your son forgets the toothpaste cap or rolls his eyes, your first thought might be, Where did I go wrong? But what if he was just excited to come snuggle with you?
It’s time to stop turning every small moment into a reflection of failure.
Redefine What “Being a Good Mom” Looks Like
Denise’s movement, Working Moms Redefined, started with one thought:
“You are not the mom your mom was, and that’s okay.”
You get to choose which traditions you keep and which ones you let go. Maybe your mom baked cookies from scratch. You buy the dough and bake them together. That’s still connection and it’s still good.
Giving yourself permission to parent differently doesn’t mean lowering the bar. It means leading with confidence instead of guilt.
Balance Comes in Seasons
Balance isn’t about splitting yourself 50/50 between work and home. It’s about recognizing which season you’re in and showing up fully there.
Maybe this season is full of deadlines and late nights. Maybe next month you’ll be front-row at every basketball game. Both can be true.
Ask yourself:
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How do I know I’m being successful as a mom?
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How do I know I’m being successful at work?
Define your finish lines. Otherwise, you’ll always feel like you’re running a race with no end.
Choose Joy (Even in the Mess)
When life feels heavy, Denise encourages moms to find one simple moment of joy, shoes by the door after a busy day, laughter in the kitchen, your teen staying in the room to talk.
You can’t control everything, but you can choose where your mind rests.
Try this tonight: before bed, name three wins of the day. They don’t have to be big. Maybe your son talked to you for 10 minutes, or you took a walk to clear your head. Little wins count.
Your brain will always find what you look for so look for what’s working.
Remember,
Balance isn’t a destination. It’s a rhythm.
And you’re already dancing better than you think.
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Guest Bio and Contact Info:
Hi, I'm Denise Tallcott! I believe that joy and purpose go hand in hand, and I also know that
joy isn’t always easy to hold onto. Sometimes, we have to allow ourselves to find it in new
and different ways.
For years, I found joy in being seen, heard and in the spotlight as a radio host. I loved the
energy, the connections and the excitement of being part of people’s daily lives. But then
life shifted. My joy changed.
I became a wife, a mother and a woman with a new purpose; one that wasn’t about being
heard but rather helping others find their voice, their confidence and their place in the
world. I can't wait to get to connect and live life alongside you!
Visit Denise:
Download “9 Minutes a Day for a Lifetime of Connection” HERE
Additional Episodes you Might Enjoy:
Teenage Boys and Big Emotions: A Conversation with Molly Claire
Managing Anxiety: Tools and Strategies with Dr. Robin Graham
