The current success of the MN Timberwolves brings about so many fond memories as I remember the very first days of the franchise – even before there was a team name or logo – as a Community Engagement volunteer and intern. As I reflect on my journey as a young mother, small business owner, and advocate for youth education, I’m reminded of the transformative power of balancing work commitments while being away from home that often evoked feelings of guilt. Now, as a happily remarried wife and empty nester, I have embarked on a new chapter: advising women executives primarily working in male-dominated industries, many of whom grapple with the same feelings of “mom guilt” that once weighed heavily on me.
My journey towards empowerment began with a serendipitous conversation on a sub-zero January evening in 1999. Working at a Jr. Wolves basketball clinic, I met Donna Ballard, Esq., the wife of MN Timberwolves Asst. Coach Greg Ballard, whose children often attended the pre-game clinics. Donna’s warmth and camaraderie became a beacon of wisdom as I confessed my struggles with balancing work commitments and family time. Having put her own career on hold, her simple yet profound advice—to integrate my children into my work environment—resonated deeply and became the cornerstone of my approach to both parenting and professional life.
Inspired by Donna’s guidance, I developed and implemented “Activity Based EducationTM” (ABE) to the National Youth Sports Program (NYSP) in the Twin Cities where I served as its Activity Director. This innovative approach combined sports with educational activities, teaching vital life skills in a fun and engaging manner.
ABE values such as making learning enjoyable, curating experiential learning, increasing daily attendance, and engaging community leaders, became the foundation of our program’s success. As ABE was adopted by other NYSP programs nationally, corporate sponsors and donors recognized its value, further affirming the effectiveness of this unique approach to education.
The success of ABE was evident in improved academic performance, high attendance rates, and the development of crucial soft skills among participants. The careers of notable NYSP alumni, including retired NBA star Alan Anderson as well as retired NFL and future Hall-Of-Famer, Larry Fitzgerald, attested to the program’s impact on their early success. Personally, ABE not only aligned my career with my values, but also enriched the lives of my own children, who are now pursuing diverse paths in higher education, athletic training, IT, as well as visual and performing arts.
As I transitioned into advising executives and women in male-dominated industries, my experience with ABE continues to inform my approach. I’ve seen firsthand how integrating personal and professional life can lead to greater fulfillment and success. By helping women navigate challenges such as mom guilt and work-life balance, I empower them to thrive in their careers while prioritizing their family commitments.
Drawing from my experiences with Donna Ballard and ABE, I offer practical advice and support to women facing similar struggles. Whether it’s creating flexible work arrangements or advocating for parental leave policies, I help women develop strategies to overcome obstacles and achieve their professional goals. Additionally, I advocate for a cultural shift within organizations to better support working parents, fostering an environment where women can succeed without sacrificing their roles as mothers.
My journey as a mother, small business owner, and advocate, has taught me the importance of resilience, determination, and support systems. By sharing my story and empowering other women, I hope to inspire change and create a more inclusive and equitable workplace for future generations.
Incorporating my experience with Donna Ballard and ABE highlights the pivotal moments that have shaped my journey and underscores the importance of integrating personal values into professional endeavors. As I continue to advise and empower women of all ages, I remain committed to fostering a culture of support and inclusivity in all aspects of life.
We will do a deeper dive highlighting “sports mom” topics during the month of May in honor of Mothers’ Day. Submit ideas for who and what you want to read about to CoachLeah@InsightNews.com.
