The Working Moms Spotlight Series in partnership with Just Ask Boo, is an Editorial Series dedicated to showcasing standout working moms in Miami who are making an impact in their spheres of influence.
Did you know that, according to Forbes, women make up 50% of the US workforce and 70% of those women have children under the age of 18? Working mothers are a powerful cohort in the United States. However, they still vastly underserved by support systems and policies that many other countries so readily enjoy.
There are trailblazers who are paving the way to rewrite the narrative for working mothers in our country. A handful of these such trailblazers reside in Miami-Dade county and they are creating a ripple effect across the country. Allow me to introduce them to you.
This month we are ecstatic to shine the spotlight on the powerhouse team of Moms behind The Mom Economy. Brittany Valdes, Ann Ueno, & Ashley Artidiello joined forces to create their 501c3 to help working moms discover and step into their purpose. These three pioneers are transforming the lives of businesswomen by helping them to reach their full potential through uniquely designed programs and opportunities. Now that’s something to celebrate!
Prepare to be encouraged by the creative ingenuity of three Moms committed to serving others. Without further ado, we introduce to you the working women of The Mom Economy…
Brittany, what inspired you to start The Mom Economy?
I’ve worked for Microsoft since 2013, but before joining Microsoft I was part of the statistic—where 43% of women quit their jobs while pregnant or after having their first child. Yes it’s a thing. So I was home ready to be a stay at home mom when a Microsoft recruiter reached out. I thought, “Well, what do I have to lose?”
I went through the interview process and was presented with a job offer via email! Then I felt really bad signing all the paperwork before telling the hiring manager I was pregnant because I knew in six months, I was going to have to take maternity leave and that didn’t seem “fair.” I ended up meeting with the Hiring Manager and telling him I was pregnant. He said, “Oh my Gosh, that’s amazing! We’re so happy to have you. This is the perfect role for you, and we wouldn’t pick anyone else — maternity leave or not.”
That reaction was refreshing; knowing that my new team ultimately had my back helped me excel in my new role at the company but also my new role as a Mother. However, many moms face negative responses and tough choices when it comes to their careers. I decided I wanted to replicate my positive experience and the support network I encountered and extend that to other mothers. The Mom Economy was born.
Ann, what advice would you give a Mom who is considering stepping back into the workforce or to the Mom dreaming of starting her own business?
First, amen! I strongly believe in having more women in the workplace and the positive impact our role has on society and in our home lives. Second, follow your heart and your instincts. If you feel called to work outside the home or to start a business, take the steps to pursue that, sans guilt. No season is forever and inevitably, the season will change. Chapters will open and close. SO GO for it!
Finally, give yourself immense grace for at least 6 months of that new chapter if you decide to do it. Stepping into something new is hard. Stepping into something new as a mom – which often means stepping away from time at home with kids – is ten times harder (but also, ten times more rewarding). Take it one day at a time.
And all the moms said, “Amen!” We can all relate to that statement. It can be challenging at times to remind ourselves to slow down and focus on the day at hand. We get to wear many hats as Moms which can really be a strength in business. Ann, how would you say that being a mother has influenced your role in business?
It pushed me hard to pursue what I love and what I believe I am designed to do, career-wise. Doing the corporate life hustle and being on someone else’s timeline was not for me. I knew I wanted my daughter to watch her mom step into her purpose while still having the flexibility to be a mom and a wife. It’s not always easy, of course, but the new rhythm of being my own boss has been largely due to having my daughter. You could say that Zoey forced me to live out my dreams and purpose, actually, which is such a beautiful thing!
Yes, a very beautiful thing! Our children really do become conduits of inspiration. Where else do you find yourself drawing inspiration? Where do you get ideas?
As a creative, I am inspired daily by so much, especially living in Miami where the ocean is our muse and cotton candy skies are a regular occurrence. But if I am intentionally needing inspiration, I first go back to the Creator. In fact, just this week I was reading my Bible and inspired by so many stories of creativity which first started with nature. We live in such a beautiful world that just taking a walk outside for 10 minutes helps inspire me.
Domino magazine is ALWAYS my go-to for inspiration. From home trends to real-life spaces to creative meals, this magazine and digital hub continues to light my soul on fire. Last, travel. I just spent time in Seattle and when I checked into our hotel (the W in Bellevue), I could sense a blanket of ideation around me. From interior design to walking around a new neighborhood and checking out mom and pop stores, travel has most certainly shaped my creative ventures.
Ashley, what’s the most creative thing you’ve ever done?
Other than the opportunity to create two awesome boys? – I’m biased, I know! The most creative thing I’ve ever done is create an experiential clothing store in the middle of Wynwood. What was supposed to be just a weekend long Art Basel pop-up for a small online shop turned into a successful crowdfunding campaign and a year long store that involved creating culture, establishing community amongst women, getting crafty with local artists and artisans and shopping for a complete outfit under $100. And I did it all while pregnant with my first. It’s one of my most cherished projects, ever.
That is impressive and sounds like a lot of fun collaborating with others throughout the process. Ok, shifting gears now, help us get to know the ladies of The Mom Economy a little more. Ashley, name 3 things that make you smile, life’s simple joys:
A clean house, watching my kids laugh and play with each other and a new pair of shoes.
Ann, what’s your favorite go-to spot for “me” time in Miami?
That’s easy – Mrs. Mandolin! As a designer, I believe that this is one of the best lifestyle home stores arguably in the country. From the intimate café to the beautifully curated home goods to the design of the space itself. Mrs. Mandolin is a place to get inspired and of course, achieve a bit of retail therapy while you’re at it.
Ann, I know you’re a lifelong learner, always in pursuit of continuing to grow and develop. Tell us, what resources do you recommend for women, specifically women in business?
There is a quote that has always stuck with me that I heard at the Global Leadership Summit (which was originally from Harry Truman) about 8 years ago: “Not all readers are leaders but all leaders are readers.” Ladies, read!
I would encourage any woman in business to read at least one business book a quarter, if not a month. Good to Great by Jim Collins. 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. Open by Andre Agassi. Girl Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis. Start With The Why by Simon Sinek. ANYTHING by John Maxwell. And today, most of these authors have podcasts so jump on board that train, too!
Brit, what additional resources would you recommend for mothers returning to the workplace?
Get up to speed on essential workplace tools and if you are looking for a new career path look into computer programs. There’s a great one teaching moms how to code. Many of the workplace development courses can be found on sites like Lynda.com or other online learning programs such as, Allbright Academy
I would also suggest to look into accelerator programs such as, ReBoot, designed to get women back up to speed.
Explore other women- and mother-focused online sites that can jumpstart a job search. The Mom Project is a “digital talent marketplace” that vets and matches professional women with companies.
Thank you ladies for the time you have spent living out the mission of your organization even now as you’ve equipped me personally and our readers with relevant resources to lead us forward in our purpose.
Connect with The Mom Economy on Instagram and Facebook. Visit their website to learn more about how The Mom Economy is partnering with Shopify in New York City to champion Mom-owned businesses.
