NPR's Book of the Day As prime minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern juggled leadership and motherhood
Jun 16, 2025
Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand and author of 'A Different Kind of Power,' shares her unique journey balancing leadership and motherhood. She reflects on the historic moment of becoming a mother while in office and the challenges of navigating parental guilt amidst political responsibilities. Ardern offers candid insights into the complexities of being a young woman in politics and the emotional journey of stepping down as leader. Her personal anecdotes highlight the resilience required to thrive in both roles and the importance of community support.
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Facing Gender Bias in Politics
- Jacinda Ardern was confronted by a male sports anchor suggesting women job seekers should reveal their reproductive plans.
- She rebelled strongly, asserting the question was inappropriate and unfair for any woman to answer.
Waiting for Two Life-Changing Results
- Ardern waited in a bathroom to learn if she became prime minister and if she was pregnant simultaneously.
- She described the moment as glamorous and scary, capturing the unique intersection of leadership and motherhood.
Motherhood and Leadership Juggle
- Breastfeeding allowed Ardern to keep her daughter physically close during early motherhood while leading a country.
- As her daughter grew, practicalities made juggling motherhood and leadership more challenging, but she refuted the idea she couldn't do both.
