Jessica Shortall is a true champion for working moms. Her journey began as a Peace Corps volunteer and expanded into the nonprofit world, where she made a significant impact at Toms Shoes. It was during a business trip to Nepal, shortly after she welcomed her son, Leo, that she realized the urgent need for a resource dedicated to the challenges of breastfeeding while juggling a career. This epiphany led her to pen the book Work. Pump. Repeat., which addresses the complexities of pumping at work and while traveling.
A Call for Support
“I had so many questions about how to manage pumping during work trips,” she explains. “It blew my mind that there wasn’t a thorough, supportive guide out there for working mothers.” Over four years, she connected with countless moms through personal networks, gathering insights to create a comprehensive resource. Shortly after the book hit the shelves in September 2015, Jessica took the stage for a TED Talk that resonated with many, addressing the inadequacies of paid family leave in America. This talk has since been viewed over 1.1 million times, showcasing her commitment to advocating for workplace rights.
Taking the Leap
Taking a leap of faith, she dedicated her nights and weekends to writing the book while still at Toms, where she had the support of founder Blake Mycoskie. However, in 2014, she decided it was time to focus entirely on her project, despite facing numerous publisher rejections. “I was prepared to self-publish, which was a huge financial risk,” she recalls.
Amplifying Voices
Post-publication, working parents began sharing their experiences with her, revealing the harsh realities they faced. “I felt a deep responsibility to amplify their voices,” she says. Her recent two-part series for a well-known magazine focused on a mother returning to work just 20 days after a c-section, a piece that validated her work and highlighted the struggles many families endure.
Advocating for Change
Jessica acknowledges the efforts of those who have long fought for paid family leave. “I’m just getting started, while others have been advocating for years. But progress is happening. Many companies are beginning to adopt better parental leave policies, which is a step forward, but there’s still so much more to do. Sharing personal stories is essential in this fight.”
Explore More Resources
If you’re curious about the journey of becoming a parent or want to explore more resources, check out our other blog post here. If you’re considering at-home insemination, Make a Mom offers top-notch kits for your family’s journey. For additional insights on fertility treatments, this resource is fantastic.
Conclusion
In summary, Jessica Shortall’s work is a beacon for working mothers, tackling the challenges of breastfeeding and advocating for better workplace policies. Her book and advocacy efforts are paving the way for crucial conversations about parental rights and support in the workplace.
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