Episode 165

Breadwinners, Working Women, and Power in the Household with Melissa Hogenboom

Published on: 11th August, 2025

Are your relationships and household dynamics feeling out of balance due to money and work stressors? This episode explores insights and strategies for creating equitable and harmonious relationships across financial and domestic spheres. I, along with guest Melissa Hogenboom, dive into the impact of gender dynamics on household responsibilities, power imbalances, and the mental load frequently shouldered by women. We discuss the importance of communication, valuing care work, and sharing responsibilities effectively. Learn practical steps to rebalance efforts in your life and foster a more equitable future for the next generation.

In This Episode, We Explore:

  • How societal and childhood gender norms affect our work and money dynamics today.
  • The concept of unwise effort versus wise effort in household and workplace settings.
  • Tips for effective communication and sharing the mental load in relationships.
  • Balancing career, domestic, and finances equitably in relationships.

Suggested Next Episode:

Episode 126: Wise Parenting With ACT

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Thanks to the team, Craig and Ashley Hiatt, and Benjamin Gould of Bell & Branch for your beautiful music.

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Gain the wisdom and skills to help you put your energy into the life you want to live. I’m ready to help you get there.

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    About the Podcast

    Wise Effort
    The Science and Practice of Putting Your Energy Where It Matters Most
    Wise Effort with Dr. Diana Hill is a show about how to live wisely.

    You’ll learn how to put your energy into places that matter most to you while making a difference in the world.

    This show is for you if:
    ...you’re a high achiever feeling burned out from tasks that don’t matter.
    ...you want to invest your energy in fulfilling and sustainable ways.
    ...you seek holistic living without the pressure of a rigid wellness checklist.
    ...you care about your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health.
    ...you appreciate science but are open to exploring spirituality and contemplative practices.
    ...you have an open, beginner’s mind.
    ...you believe there’s a better way to live and are ready to apply your wisdom.

    We don’t have to burn ourselves out or engage in things that are not worth it. We can put our energy where it matters most and savor the good along the way.

    Join us at the Wise Effort Show!

    About your host

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    Diana Hill

    Diana Hill, PhD is a clinical psychologist, international trainer and sought-out speaker on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and compassion. Host of the podcast Wise Effort with Dr. Diana Hill and author of The Self-Compassion Daily Journal, The ACT Daily Journal, and the upcoming book Wise Effort, Diana works with organizations and individuals to develop psychological flexibility so that they can grow fulfilling and impactful lives.

    Integrating her over 20 years of meditation experience with yoga and psychological training, Diana guest teaches at InsightLA, Blue Spirit Costa Rica, PESI, Praxis Continuing Education, Yoga Soup and Insight Timer Meditation. She is on the board for the Institute for Better Health, and blogs for Psychology Today and Mindful.org. Diana practices what she preaches in her daily life as a mom of two boys and bee guardian. Go to drdianahill.com or her channels on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube (@drdianahill) to learn more.