The Sustainable Mom: The Podcast about Career, Ambition, & Motherhood
The Sustainable Mom is the podcast for high-achieving mothers navigating the messy, powerful intersection of career and motherhood.
Hosted by career coach Jennifer Gagnon, each episode explores how becoming a mom changes our ambition, our identity, and our relationship to work.
Through honest conversations and real stories, we’ll help you create a career—and life—that’s sustainable, fulfilling, and fully your own.
The Sustainable Mom: The Podcast about Career, Ambition, & Motherhood
3. From Teacher to Virtual Assistant: A Career Pivot Born from Burnout with Melissa Schuetz
In this episode, Jen sits down with Melissa Schuetz, a former teacher who walked away from burnout and into a more sustainable life, to talk about what it really takes to reinvent yourself as a working mom.
Melissa opens up about the emotional toll of life in the classroom, the quiet unraveling that so many mothers feel but rarely name, and the courageous decision to pivot into a new career as a virtual assistant. Together, they explore what it means to release an old identity, ask for help without shame, and prioritize nervous system care as a non-negotiable foundation for lasting change.
If you've ever wondered how to honor your ambition without abandoning yourself, this episode is your permission slip.
Meet the Guest!
Melissa Schuetz is a virtual assistant, mom of five, and former teacher who helps small business owners stay organized and consistent by handling administrative tasks and scheduling social media content.
After experiencing burnout, postpartum depression, and the pressure of balancing teaching with motherhood, Melissa made the bold choice to leave the classroom and create a more sustainable life.
Now she supports other moms in finding freedom, peace, and purpose through flexible work and mental wellness.
Learn more here ⬇️
Instagram: @melissaschuetz_
Wellness Quiz: Take the quiz
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You don’t have to choose between ambition and motherhood.
Jen helps women navigate career transitions after motherhood: whether you’re ready to advance without burning out, explore entrepreneurship, or find clarity when you know your current role isn’t it.
Through private, high-touch 1:1 coaching, you can build a career and life that feels as good as it looks, without the guilt, overwhelm, or constant second-guessing.
Book your private consultation
Not quite ready for coaching?
Start with The Working Mom Reset—a 7-day email experience to help you recover from overwhelm & finally feel like you again. Consider it your first step toward a life you enjoy instead of one you’re just getting through.
Stay connected for more honest, curated support:
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Threads → @leadwithjen
Substack → The Sustainable Mom