The Feedback Gap - How to Actually Get Better at Work: Jenna's Story Artwork

When Mommy Grows Up

As moms, we love to inspire our kids to dream big dreams about who they’ll be as they grow up. But when is the last time you stopped to ask yourself, "Who am I going to be (next) as I grow up?"

The When Mommy Grows Up Podcast is the motherhood and career podcast for moms who need help defining what success looks like to them as mid-career professionals and parents, along with the support they need to go after it.

Hear real stories from real moms facing the same challenges you are. Finding flexible jobs, crafting a job you love, discovering your passions, crushing it at work, and getting kids off the bus! We’ll talk through it all.

Hosts (and fellow mom) Becca Carnahan of Next Chapter Careers takes your questions and provides practical step-by-step advice to help you move forward. All served up with a virtual mom hug and lots of laughs!

Send your stories and questions to podcast@nextchaptercareers.us.

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When Mommy Grows Up

The Feedback Gap - How to Actually Get Better at Work: Jenna's Story

May 19, 2026 • Becca Carnahan | Next Chapter Careers

0:00 | 16:36

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In this episode of When Mommy Grows Up, we’re taking a page from the world of gymnastics, where feedback is constant, specific, and unavoidable, and asking: what if we approached our careers the same way?

Because here’s the truth: most of us aren’t lacking feedback… we’re just not getting the kind that actually helps us grow.

Through the story of “Jenna,” a high-performing professional who felt stuck despite glowing reviews, we unpack why common workplace feedback often falls flat, and how to change that. From vague praise to overly safe critiques, we’ll break down what’s missing and how to start asking better questions that lead to real, actionable insights.

You’ll walk away with simple, practical strategies to:

Ask for feedback in a way that gets real answers
Turn vague comments into clear direction
Build visibility and trust by actually using what you hear
Create momentum in your career (without waiting for your next review cycle)

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m doing everything right… so why am I not growing?” this episode is for you!

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