Each month, Maturn highlights a current member of the Maturn community who is navigating life stages from fertility, motherhood, through to menopause.
This month we’re proud to feature: Vanessa Agrawal
Company and Position:
Director at Innovative Research Group
Age of your kids :
10 months and 4.5 years
How has Motherhood grown you as a leader?
Motherhood has profoundly shaped how I lead and collaborate. As a parent, I’m learning to build secure attachment with my children by staying present with their emotions, even when it’s uncomfortable or triggering. That same mindset has deeply influenced my leadership.
I’ve come to see that trust and connection aren’t built just during easy moments, they’re forged in times of challenge. In my work, I prioritize creating psychological safety so that people feel confident sharing bold ideas, especially under pressure or during setbacks.
Sometimes, the most important thing I bring to the team isn’t just my expertise, it’s a calm, steady presence that helps us navigate difficulties together.
What are some unique challenges you have faced in growing your career and your family?
Raising two young children while continuing to grow in my leadership role has stretched me in profound and unexpected ways. It challenged me to shift from the mindset of doing it all on my own to intentionally building what Michelle Obama calls a “kitchen table” of support.
I’ve come to understand that doing it all is not only unrealistic, it’s unsustainable. What I need is an expanded version of myself, and that’s made possible through the support of my husband, my in-laws, extended family, close friends, professional network, and broader community. They are extensions of me, helping me stay grounded and carrying me through both the personal and professional ups and downs.
I’ll admit that fully embracing support hasn’t always come easily. But as I continue to advance in my career and raise my family, I’ve realized that leaning into that support system isn’t a compromise, it’s the key to growth and resilience.
What advice or encouragement would you offer to other mothers navigating motherhood/parenthood and career growth at the same time?
Find ways to fill your cup with your kids. Alone time, truly free from work or family commitments, is rare for me. When I’m not working (like now, during maternity leave), I’m with my kids. And I’ve learned that this time can also be when I recharge.
Exercise has long been a key part of my identity, and during this maternity leave, I’ve discovered that hiking with my baby in a carrier is something that fills me emotionally. Being in nature, exploring new trails, and completing a hike give me a sense of renewal.
There are other things I love, like playing the violin or singing in a choir, that don’t fit easily into this season of life. I’ve made peace with that. My mantra is: something is better than nothing. Being able to do even part of what brings me joy is far better than doing nothing at all.
When my emotional cup is full, I show up more present for my family and more fully as myself at work.
Which Maturn program you are participating in?
I’m participating in Maturn’s Maternity Leave Program. It has been a space for reflection, a place to explore possibilities, and it continues to empower me in meaningful ways.
