As prime minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern juggled leadership and motherhood
In this episode of NPR's Book of the Day, former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern discusses her experiences as a young female leader and mother in politics. She shares her interactions with male journalists about women's reproductive choices in professional settings, and describes seeking advice from Queen Elizabeth II about balancing motherhood with leadership responsibilities, as she became only the second world leader to give birth while in office.
Ardern also addresses the practical challenges she faced as a working mother in a high-profile position, including managing breastfeeding schedules and dealing with "mother guilt." The conversation covers her eventual decision to step down from office, sparked by a health scare, and her explanation to her daughter about how making a difference extends beyond holding political positions.
This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jun 16, 2025 episode of the NPR's Book of the Day
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1-Page Summary
Ardern's Experience as a Young, Female Leader
As Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern faced unique challenges related to her gender and age. She notably confronted a male sports anchor who suggested women should disclose their reproductive plans when seeking jobs, firmly maintaining that such questions were inappropriate in professional settings. As only the second leader to give birth while in office, Ardern sought advice from Queen Elizabeth II about balancing motherhood with leadership responsibilities.
Balancing Motherhood and Political Office
During her tenure as Prime Minister, Ardern navigated the complexities of being a working mother in a high-profile position. She experienced practical challenges, such as the decreasing feasibility of breastfeeding as her daughter grew older, and admits to feeling "mother guilt" both during and after her time in office. Despite these challenges, Ardern consistently emphasized women's capability to balance career and parenting, advocating that women deserve the same opportunities and grace they wish for their children.
Ardern's Decision to Leave As Prime Minister
A potential health scare prompted Ardern to consider stepping down from her role as Prime Minister, marking a shift from her previous determination to remain in office out of responsibility. When explaining her resignation to her daughter, who worried about "giving up," Ardern emphasized that making a difference doesn't require a political position. She explained that her motivation came from people and communities, suggesting her commitment to change continues beyond her role as Prime Minister.
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Clarifications
- Jacinda Ardern's statement to her daughter reflects her belief that creating positive change can be achieved through various means beyond holding a political position. She is emphasizing that impactful contributions to society can come from different roles and actions, not solely from being in a position of political power. Ardern is conveying to her daughter that one can make a difference through personal actions, advocacy, and community involvement, not just through political leadership.
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Ardern's Experience as a Young, Female Leader
As a youthful female prime minister, Jacinda Ardern has navigated a unique set of challenges and expectations, particularly relating to questions about her personal life and reproductive choices.
Ardern Faced Inappropriate Questions About Her Reproductive Plans as a Leader
Jacinda Ardern expressed her displeasure with the conduct of a male sports anchor who suggested that she, and all women in the process of seeking new jobs, should be clear about their reproductive plans. Ardern found this opinion to be invasive and inappropriate.
Ardern Upset by Male Anchor Implying Women Must Disclose Reproductive Plans, Calling It Inappropriate
Ardern, during a television interview, pointedly confronted the male anchor over his remarks. She strongly maintained that questions pertaining to women's reproductive intentions were out of bounds and should not be a topic of discussion in professional settings.
Ardern Navigated Gender Norms As a Young Female PM
In her role as the youngest female prime minister, Ardern has had to challenge and overcome persistent gender norms and sexist commentary that intersect with her leadership position.
Ardern Confronts Anchor on Sexist Comments About Women's Reproductive Plans
Ardern directly addressed the anchor's sexist comments regarding women's reproductive plans ...
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Ardern's Experience as a Young, Female Leader
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Actionables
- You can start a journal to reflect on and challenge your own biases regarding gender roles, especially in leadership. By writing down your thoughts and reactions to situations that involve gender expectations, you can identify areas where you might unconsciously endorse stereotypes. For example, if you find yourself surprised when a female colleague expresses ambition for a high-level position, note this reaction and explore why you felt that way.
- Create a personal policy for respectful communication that includes avoiding invasive questions about personal life, especially those related to reproductive plans. Practice this policy in your interactions, and if you're in a leadership role, implement it within your team or organization. For instance, when discussing career plans with colleagues, focus on their professional goals and skills instead of personal life choices.
- Educate yourself on the history and achievements of ...
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Balancing Motherhood and Political Office
Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, juxtaposes the challenges and the capabilities associated with the dual role of motherhood and political leadership.
Ardern Struggled As Working Mother Pm
Ardern experienced the complexities of motherhood firsthand while leading her country, navigating the practicalities of parenting alongside her responsibilities as Prime Minister.
Breastfeeding Became Less Practical as Ardern's Daughter Got Older
Ardern found that as her daughter grew older, the practicality of breastfeeding—and having her daughter with her—diminished. This shift represents one of the many challenges working mothers face as they balance the evolving needs of their children with their professional duties.
Ardern Felt "Mother Guilt" for Missing Time With Daughter After Leaving Office
Ardern admits feeling "mother guilt," a common sensation among parents, both during her time in office and afterwards. This acknowledgment suggests that despite one's status or occupation, the emotional struggles of parenting are universally persistent.
Ardern Defied the Idea Women Can't Balance Career and Parenting
Ardern emphasizes a woman's ability to juggle professional ambitions and motherhood, while acknowledging the emotional toll it can take.
Ardern Emphasized Women's Capability to Balance Both Roles, Acknowledging "Mother Guilt" As a Common Issue for Working Parents
In discussions, including one with Queen Elizabeth, Ardern insisted on women’s capacity to synchronize the demands of career and children, often coming down to practical measures and perseverance. Her own experience defies the noti ...
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Balancing Motherhood and Political Office
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Actionables
- You can create a shared digital family calendar to synchronize your professional and parenting schedules, ensuring you allocate time for both without overextending yourself. By using a calendar app that allows for multiple users, you and your partner can update each other on your work commitments and your child's needs in real-time, making it easier to plan for important events and share parenting responsibilities.
- Start a peer support group with other working parents to discuss strategies for balancing career and family, and to provide mutual support for dealing with "mother guilt" or similar feelings. This could be as simple as a monthly coffee meet-up or a dedicated online forum where you can share experiences, advice, and encouragement with others facing similar challenges.
- Implement a personal policy of "grace periods" whe ...
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Ardern's Decision to Leave As Prime Minister
Jacinda Ardern, faced with a potential health issue and reflecting on the responsibilities and self-doubt that shaped her tenure, considered stepping down from her position.
Ardern's Self-Doubt and Responsibility Kept Her In the Role
Ardern began to consider leaving her role as Prime Minister when she faced a potential health issue. This health scare prompted her to entertain the possibility of stepping down for a reason other than responsibility—a reason such as medical necessity—which was a thought process she had not allowed herself to engage with previously.
Health Scare Led Ardern to Consider Leaving
The health issue brought Ardern to a crucial reflection point, causing her to contemplate her departure from the role of Prime Minister. This consideration marked a departure from her previous determination to remain in office, driven by a sense of duty.
Ardern's Daughter Showed Leaving Wasn't "Giving Up"
A profound moment came when Ardern’s daughter asked why she had decided to step down as Prime Minister. Ardern took this opportunity to explain her decision in terms her daughter could understand. However, her daughter's expression "we never give up" concerned Ardern, as it implied that her daug ...
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Ardern's Decision to Leave As Prime Minister
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Counterarguments
- Ardern's decision to step down due to health concerns could be seen as a responsible act of self-care and prioritizing personal well-being, which is an important example for others in leadership positions.
- Reflecting on leaving a role due to health issues is a normal process, and it could be argued that such reflection demonstrates a leader's awareness of their limitations and the importance of their health in fulfilling their duties.
- Ardern's concern about being perceived as "giving up" could be countered by the argument that stepping down can sometimes be the bravest decision, especially when it allows for recovery and the opportunity for others to lead.
- While Ardern reassured her daughter that making a difference is possible outside of politics, it could be argued that the platform and power that come with politic ...
Actionables
- Reflect on your career path by journaling about potential health concerns and how they might influence your professional decisions. Write down how your health could impact your current role and explore alternative career paths that align with your values and abilities, ensuring you have a plan that prioritizes your well-being.
- Have an open conversation with a family member or friend about your career aspirations and fears, using it as an opportunity to clarify your intentions and address any misconceptions. This can help you articulate your goals and the reasons behind your choices, strengthening your resolve and support network.
- Volunteer in a local communi ...
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