Episodes

After more than six years working remotely, I made a decision that surprised even me—I rented office space (well, co-sharing rented space). Not because I needed it for my business, but because something wasn’t working. In this episode, I share the three real reasons behind that decision: loneliness during the workday, a lack of creative energy, and a growing desire for identity and community outside of my roles at home. If you work remotely and have ever felt like something is missing—even wh...

Many people believe creativity belongs to artists—but creativity is actually one of the most important human skills we have. In this episode, Erika explores how creativity shows up in our work, leadership, and everyday lives. Through a personal story, she reflects on how her view of creativity evolved and why many of us unknowingly limit our own creative potential. Don't forget to subscribe to the Work It, Remote podcast! Visit www.workitremote.com to join our mailing list. @WorkItRemote on ...

Working from home can quietly turn flexibility into assumed responsibility. In this episode of Work It, Remote, I explore how remote and flexible work often makes us the default person for unplanned moments—sick days, snow days, service appointments, last-minute interruptions, and everyday disruptions. I talk about the invisible mental load and anticipatory stress that comes with being “the one who’s home,” why these interruptions fragment focus and drain energy, and how pushing through without ...

Podcast: Work It, Remote Episode 19 At the end of every year, I usually have a clear way of reflecting — what worked, what didn’t, and what I want to carry forward. But as 2025 came to a close, that process felt unusually hard. There was too much happening, too many threads to untangle, and no clear structure to make sense of it all. In this episode, I share the unexpected reflection process that helped unlock clarity — using three simple AI prompts that surfaced patterns I couldn’t see on my...

Episode 18: Why I’m Hitting Record Again Podcast: Work It, Remote Host: Erika Joseph Bergen After a nine-month pause, Work It, Remote is back — and in this update episode, host Erika Joseph Bergen shares why she stepped away, what she learned during the break, and how the podcast is evolving moving forward. Originally launched as a space to explore remote work through curiosity and community, the show slowly began to feel heavier — more focused on best practices, expert advice, and “shoulds.”...

Setting Boundaries & Building Empathy for the Child-Free Experience at Work ✨ Episode Description: In this episode, we explore the unique and often overlooked experiences of child-free women in the workplace. Guest host La’Nita Green sits down with Kas Rigas, a seasoned communications executive and former Head of Communications at Maserati, for a candid conversation about navigating assumptions, setting limits, and advocating for yourself—without guilt. As more women choose not to have child...

Navigating Remote Hiring and Job Seeking with AI and Mindfulness In this episode, Erika interviews Fanni Gabor, an expert in recruitment and AI-powered hiring. Fanni shares her extensive experience in talent acquisition, emphasizing the integration of AI to streamline the hiring process while maintaining human touch. She provides practical tips for both job seekers and hiring managers, highlights the importance of tailored resumes, and discusses common mistakes in the application process. Fanni also delves into the significance of mindfulness and personal values in the job search journey, offering a holistic perspective on achieving meaningful work connections.

In this episode, you will learn a simple, 5-minute make-up morning routine that will have you looking and feeling your best. Seriously. You don't want to miss this discussion and live tutorial with Rebecca Cummings Scales, co-founder of Elegance Artistry. In its 14th year, Elegance Artistry has teams of make-up artists and hair stylists serving people across the U.S.  Rebecca gives us the inside scoop sharing her professional makeup tips to help you face your remote work day. I asked Rebecca everything from lighting, to how to conceal blemishes, to what's the difference between high-end and drugstore products. We also dive into make-up application tricks! Watch as Rebecca teaches me how to apply brow pencil, concealer, bronzer, and mascara for a quick yet polished look for the screen. Rebecca explains the significance of each step and demonstrates the techniques, making the process approachable for everyone. She highlights the importance of prioritizing certain makeup products base…

In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Jasen, owner of Sage and Sunshine Therapy. We delve into how our phones have integrated into our daily lives and techniques for creating a healthier relationship with your phone and other electronic devices. Laura highlights the necessity of setting routines, like limiting news consumption to a specific time each morning and paying attention to our bodily reactions to prolonged screen time. She suggests creating hard stops in our use of devices, such as switc...

In this episode, we dive deep into the ever-relevant topic of burnout, which McKinsey's recent study shows affects about a third of the workforce—yes, one-third! Surprisingly, this number is even higher than during the pandemic. So what's going on? We break down what burnout really means, why it’s happening, and most importantly, what you can do about it without needing to quit your job or have tough talks with your boss.  You'll learn about the importance of organizational practices over working models, the five key components for a healthy work culture, and how burnout symptoms might show up in your life. We also chat about a useful framework from the book 'Resonant Leadership' that can help you manage stress and find balance through mindfulness, hope, compassion, and joy. Plus, we’ve got three actionable exercises: tuning into a past episode for tips on mindfulness and joy, doing a values exercise to connect with your 'why,' and planning out your personal renewal strategy. By the e…

Ever notice how sitting at your desk all day makes your whole body feel... blah? You're not alone. In this episode, we're exploring how our sedentary work habits—especially in remote settings—are messing with our energy, confidence, and yes, even our sex lives. My guest, Nya McKenzie, is highly skilled in physical therapy, pelvic floor therapy, pilates, myofascial therapy, and facial therapy and offers a holistic view of health and wellness. She's breaking down the science, the mindset, and the movement strategies that can help you feel better, move more, and connect deeper (with yourself and your partner.)

In this short episode, I share an embarrassing moment at work that taught me a simple trick for better managing my time when working from home.  Time management is a consistent theme I hear as a challenge for remote workers. Listen in for a quick story on what happened to me, and one simple thing you can start TODAY so you're set up for success at work. Don't make my mistake!  Share your time management tips at workitremote.com. Leave me a voice message via the pink microphone or go to "Contact" on the site and send me a written message.

In this episode, we kick off a new "Community Spotlight" series, where we'll hear stories from real women WIR (Working It, Remote). Our first spotlight is with Danielle Cornejo Calhoun, a remote worker outside of Seattle, WA. She shares her journey of struggling with MS and how her disability eventually led her to have a courageous conversation with her employer about working remotely (pre-pandemic). Danielle opens up about her challenges and triumphs, explaining how remote work became essential for her job sustainability. Danielle has her dream job and she talks about how she handled setbacks to thrive in her career while working remotely. She also candidly shares her experience as a mom of two young kids, how she juggles it all, and manages the "mom guilt" moments. This episode was recorded in December 2024. It feels particularly relevant, in light of the recent RTO mandates and rollback of DEI initiatives. Danielle is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, she …

In this episode, I sit down with Brittany Smith, an early childhood educator, to discuss strategies for parents working remotely with young children. Brittany shares practical tips on teaching kids independence, establishing boundaries, and promoting quiet time through various activities. She emphasizes the importance of creating structured routines, setting expectations, using visual cues like voice level charts and stop/go signs, as well as both intrinsic and extrinsic rewards. Additionally, she highlights the significance of consistency and patience. The discussion includes examples and advice for managing common challenges, encouraging positive reinforcement, and setting up effective home environments to help remote working parents balance their schedules, reduce stress, and support their child's development.  Brittany has nearly a decade of experience in early childhood and elementary education. She specializes in inclusion classrooms and differentiated instruction.

In this episode, we dive into strategies for managing up with hands-off managers, inspired by Irina Cozma's article in Harvard Business Review. Building on leadership skills discussed in episode 7, we explore the three C's: coaching, communication, and consulting skills, and how to apply them to manage up effectively. Learn how to ask pointed questions, position yourself as a partner to your manager, and create connection and shared accountability so you can set yourself up for success in your relationship with your manager while working remotely.

In this episode, we unpack leadership in today's remote and hybrid environment with Kerri Warner, the Head of Employee Communications, Culture and Engagement @PayPal. She shares her extensive experience in leadership roles at companies, including Spotify, MasterCard, American Express, Deloitte and PWC to discuss the changing dynamics in remote work and the critical leadership skills needed today. Throughout the conversation, we explore how to foster engagement, trust, and communication in dispersed teams, emphasizing the importance of a human-centered approach to leadership. This discussion is loaded with helpful insights and practical advice for job seekers and leaders aiming to navigate and thrive in today's evolving remote work landscape

Welcome to a special New Year's episode focused on mindfulness, joy, and energy. Join me as I sit down with Christine (Tine) Lu Singh, a breathwork coach and intuitive guide. Together we dive into the transformative power of breathwork. Discover techniques for active guided meditation that can help dissolve stress, regain focus, and release stagnant emotions. Tine shares her insights on integrating breathwork into busy schedules, and tips for incorporating joy into daily life. From setting intentions to practicing gratitude, this episode offers practical advice for starting your year with intention and mindfulness. Tune in for a grounding and uplifting experience to kick off 2025.

In this revealing episode, I share aspects of my own personal journey as a remote-working mother of two, emphasizing the unique experience of postpartum recovery and return to remote work. Joined by guest Jarriel Campbell, owner of Call Your Doula, we discuss the physical and emotional changes during post-partum, and provide practical advice for managing your return to work after maternity or family leave, including (breast)feeding, sleep, social isolation, work transitions, and building your village so that you can return to remote work feeling supported in the transition. The episode provides valuable tips on creating a postpartum and work transition plan to support mothers (and partners) in their journey back to remote work while nurturing their well-being and bonding with their new baby.

Ever join an important meeting and you're the only one remote? It's so challenging! In this jam-packed episode, I share my personal strategies for showing up your best when you're on the big screen and (mostly) everyone else is in person. I focus on how to prepare yourself, maintain a strong presence, and contribute with confidence. Tune in for helpful tips that will help you work it, remote.

In this episode, I sit down with employment law expert Sharon Cohen to discuss the evolving landscape of remote work and employee rights. Sharon, a partner at Davis and Gilbert in New York, shares insights from her extensive experience advising employers on various aspects of employment law. Sharon explains how remote workers can protect themselves, the importance of understanding state-specific employment laws, and offers practical advice for maintaining professionalism in a remote work environment. The discussion also explores predictions on future changes in employment law after the results of the recent U.S. election. Connect with Sharon at https://www.dglaw.com/people/sharon-cohen/

Got a teen in the house? Listen in as I speak with Maria Iames, a successful executive communication coach and highly sought-after parenting coach specializing in parenting preteens and teens. This conversation delves into common challenges such as setting boundaries, dealing with teen independence, and maintaining effective communication. Maria highlights the importance of non-judgmental support, realistic expectations, and the value of carving out time for bonding. She also discusses the significance of clear communication, the role of partners, and the delicate balance between work and family life. Discover actionable strategies that you can try at home to foster better relationships with your teens while managing remote work commitments.

Don't make the mistakes I made when setting up my remote work space! In this episode, I share my top 3 tips for setting up an effective remote workspace. Inspired by a few hard-learned lessons, the episode focuses on key essentials every remote and hybrid worker needs to minimize distractions, maintain professionalism, and set herself up for success!

In this introduction to the 'Work It Remote' community and podcast, Erika Bergen shares why she was inspired to create this podcast and what you can expect as a listener. She aims to offer relatable advice and honest discussions on making remote work successful for women, featuring expert insights and personal stories. Erika challenges the misconception that remote work sidelines women's careers, highlighting its potential to help women achieve their ideal work-life blend. Subscribe now to recei...