We continue getting to know the speakers at our upcoming Amplifying Her Voice “In Moms We Trust” Mother’s Day Summit. Today we hear from Jennell Lynch, who is all about the multiple facets of motherhood—when it comes to her own four children as well as her business, which supports expectant mothers not only through their pregnancy and new roles as mothers, but professionally.
During the pandemic, Lynch transitioned from a decade-long career working with private equity firms to found the Executive Doula Agency. Trained as a doula, she wanted to ensure businesses had a way to invest in mothers. The agency markets services directly to expectant and new mothers—helping them through pregnancy, birth, and post-partum life as they transition back to work.
In our Q&A, Lynch discusses her passion for advocating for women, the importance of support and maternal mental health, what inspires her, and more.
What inspired you to join Amplifying Her Voice for Mother’s Day? What do you hope to share with the world?
The network and energy of women working together toward one common goal of empowering mothers worldwide inspired me to join Amplifying Her Voice for Mother’s Day. I hope to share strategies and tools that help women thrive as mothers and in their careers. We can do both!
What most drives and motivates you each day?
I’m motivated by the mothers who came before me—successfully navigating their careers and taking care of their families. Like never before, capital is flowing towards new resources, products, and services. There is a wide lens examining federal policies and human resources. I’m driven by the opportunities and the change that’s on the horizon.
Who is your role model, and why?
My mother, grandmother and great-grandmother are my role models. I come from a large family of amazing women. I am because of them. I am driven because of them. And I will not fail because of them. They led by example that I am capable of being a mother and having a fantastic career with the proper support and resources.
What cause, company, group, or movement are you a part of that you would like to share with us?
What do you think are some of the most pressing issues facing moms, families, and caregivers today?
Paid maternity and family leave, daycare financial support, and company-based support and resources.
How do you think issues like poverty, violence, racism, oppression, and inequality intersect with motherhood and with being a woman?
Inequality is the foundation for many issues mothers face in the workplace. The corporate culture was not designed with women in mind.
How do you feel being a mother is different now than it was in the past? What do you hope will change in the future?
There is more awareness about the magnitude of motherhood and the impact on the workplace than before. Recent research shows the financial ramifications for companies not addressing untreated maternal mental health conditions. I hope that companies recognize the need for investing in hands-on, proactive resources for female employees.
What is the best advice you’ve received?
Do not be afraid to advocate for yourself! Your efforts will impact the next generation of working mothers.
What is something you would like to share with the next generation?
Do not allow a company’s culture dictate when and how you parent.
What do you think is the most important thing for women to keep in mind in terms of caring for themselves?
Remember that you cannot fully care for others when you are not physically and mentally prioritizing your own needs.
What are your views on “work-life balance” for women? How should women handle the obligations of both professional and family life, and what messages does it send to the next generation?
First, remove the word balance from your vocabulary. I believe it creates an illusion that your energy and time spent between home and work ideally is even. Expect and become comfortable with reprioritizing responsibilities as life changes and throws new things your way!
What advice would you like to share with girls and women looking to achieve their dreams and lift up one another?
Dream big, real big! Believe in yourself and build a diverse network of people who will support you as a woman, mother, and in your career.
We’re so grateful for Lynch’s advocacy, passion, and expertise and can’t wait to hear from her and our other amazing speakers. Register for the Amplifying Her Voice “In Moms We Trust” Summit today!
