An Interview With Pirie Jones Grossman
Belief in Mission and Vision — It’s Not What You Say, It’s How You Live It. I believe leadership isn’t just about setting a vision — it’s about living it. People don’t follow words; they follow actions. When I launched Caring for Mama, I didn’t just talk about supporting moms — I embodied that mission in every decision, from the way we design our care packages to the corporate wellness partnerships I pursue. I’ve had companies tell me they want to work with me not just because they believe in what Caring for Mama is doing, but because they can see my passion in action. Leading authentically means fully embodying your mission and inspiring others through what you do, not just what you say.
In today’s dynamic world, the concept of leadership is continuously evolving. While traditional leadership models have often been male-dominated, there is a growing recognition of the unique strengths and perspectives that women bring to these roles. This series aims to explore how women can become more effective leaders by authentically embracing their femininity and innate strengths, rather than conforming to traditional male leadership styles. In this series, we are talking to successful women leaders, coaches, authors, and experts who can provide insights and personal stories on how embracing their inherent feminine qualities has enhanced their leadership abilities. As part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Kim Richards.
Kim Richards is the founder of Caring for Mama, a mission-driven company dedicated to prioritizing mothers — recognizing that when moms are cared for and empowered to care for themselves, their families, workplaces, and communities thrive. Through thoughtfully curated care packages and corporate wellness partnerships, Caring for Mama provides tangible support that acknowledges the unseen labor of motherhood and the importance of maternal well-being. Inspired by her own experiences as a mom of two and the gaps she saw in maternal care, Kim is reshaping how we support mothers — not as an afterthought, but as a priority. In addition to her work with Caring for Mama, she leads KDR PR, a strategic communications consultancy helping mission-driven businesses amplify their impact.
Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series. Before we dive into our discussion about authentic, feminine leadership, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you share with us the backstory about what brought you to your specific career path?
I started my career in public relations, telling the stories of countless companies and their leadership. After several years, I felt pulled toward something deeper — my passion for being in community and connecting people with purpose. That led me to venture out on my own in 2011, launching a consultancy that elevated the voices of schools, education nonprofits, and the growing STEAM education movement. Through that work, I got a taste of what it was like to create something from nothing — to be both the creator and the storyteller.
Then I became a mother in 2018, and everything shifted. I saw firsthand how little support moms receive, how much they carry, and how often their needs are overlooked. I knew this was my time to fully step into the creator role — not just to tell stories, but to build something that could truly make a difference. That’s how Caring for Mama was born: out of a deep desire to change the way we care for mothers, recognizing that when moms are supported, families, workplaces, and entire communities thrive.
Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you started your career?
One of the most interesting and transformative experiences of my career was being asked to co-facilitate the STEAM roundtable at the WISE Summit in Doha — a global gathering focused on innovation in education. It was my first time traveling to Qatar and experiencing a global education summit in that setting. It was also a pivotal moment in defining my leadership within the STEAM education movement.
Stepping into that space was both exciting and nerve-racking. I was surrounded by thought leaders shaping the future of education on a global scale, and I saw it as an opportunity to learn and grow, expanding my view on what was possible in my career. Facilitating conversations with changemakers from around the world deepened my perspective and reinforced my belief in the power of pursuing our passions and stepping into spaces that challenge us.
That experience shaped the way I approach leadership. It taught me that growth happens when we lean into the unknown, and it gave me the confidence to continue building, innovating, and leading conversations that drive change — a mindset that ultimately led me to launch Caring for Mama.
What do you think makes your company stand out? Can you share a story?
What makes Caring for Mama stand out is our belief that motherhood doesn’t get easier — it gets different. We’re postpartum for life, and no matter how old we are, how old our kids are, or what our circumstances look like, we still need to feel seen and cared for. Society often focuses on the immediate postpartum period, but the truth is, mothers are constantly evolving through new challenges — whether it’s raising toddlers, navigating adolescence, balancing career and family, becoming an empty nester or transitioning into becoming a grandmother. Moms deserve support at every stage.
The moment that solidified my dedication to Caring for Mama was when my friend Jess received a care package from me after she gave birth. It wasn’t full of baby essentials — it was filled with my favorite things, just for her. She sent me a text thanking me, saying that she felt seen and cared for. I still get chills every time I tell that story because that’s really where it all came together for me.
Care packages may seem simple, but they are a powerful, tangible way to create change for mothers everywhere. They remind moms that they matter — not just as caregivers, but as whole people who deserve to be nurtured too. That’s why Caring for Mama isn’t just a business; it’s a movement to redefine how we show up for mothers at every stage of their journey.
You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?
The three character traits that have been most instrumental to my success are empathy, curiosity, and resilience. These traits have shaped how I lead, build relationships, and navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
- Empathy — I have an innate ability to relate to people and adapt to different environments, which has allowed me to build meaningful connections and create a brand that truly resonates with mothers. One example of this was when I was first dreaming up Caring for Mama. Instead of assuming what other moms needed, I listened. I paid attention to what mothers around me were struggling with, what they wished they had, and what made them feel supported. That’s why Caring for Mama isn’t just about postpartum — it’s about recognizing that motherhood is a lifelong journey, and moms of all ages deserve to feel seen and cared for.
- Curiosity — I’ve always been fascinated by people dynamics and the unseen connections between people and situations. I’m an observer, I tune into my intuition and I ask a lot of questions. That curiosity and openness has allowed me to uncover opportunities that others might overlook. A great example is how I began thinking about corporate partnerships for Caring for Mama. Many people see corporate wellness as gym memberships or stress management programs, but I saw an opening — mothers in the workforce need support, and companies have an opportunity to show up for them in more intentional, meaningful ways. That insight came from my ability to connect the dots between maternal wellness, employee engagement, and corporate culture.
- Resilience — My career has been anything but linear. I’ve moved in and out of employment and entrepreneurship, navigating the ups and downs of motherhood, a layoff, burnout, and quitting a job without a plan. In 2020, I launched an online course just days before COVID shut everything down, which led to zero sales. Through it all, I’ve learned that change is the only constant — and the key to moving forward is coming back to my core belief in myself, my abilities, and my vision for my life and career. No matter the setbacks I face, I keep pushing forward to the next opportunity because I know it’s all leading me exactly where I’m supposed to be. That mindset is what led me to create Caring for Mama, which feels like a culmination of all of my work and life experiences to date.
Empathy, curiosity, and resilience are what keep me moving forward — not just in business, but in life. They’ve allowed me to build something that is deeply aligned with my purpose, and they continue to guide me as I expand Caring for Mama in ways I never could have imagined when I first started.
Leadership often entails making difficult decisions or hard choices between two apparently good paths. Can you share a story with us about a hard decision or choice you had to make as a leader? I’m curious to understand how these challenges have shaped your leadership.
One of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make as a leader was choosing to go all in on Caring for Mama — without the financial safety net of part-time or freelance work to build it slowly. Conventional wisdom would have told me to take the safer route: keep a steady income, grow the business gradually, and make sure I had the right amount of savings in my bank account at every step. But deep down, I knew that if I wanted Caring for Mama to have the impact I envisioned, I couldn’t treat it like a side project — I had to fully commit.
Looking back, it was absolutely a financial risk. But I also know that if I hadn’t taken that leap, Caring for Mama wouldn’t be where it is today, less than a year after launch. Sometimes the initial bet on an idea that feels deeply intuitive — like an inner knowing — is worth the risk, because your success depends on it.
What this experience taught me is that leadership isn’t just about making the safest decision — it’s about trusting yourself, your vision, and your ability to figure things out along the way. If I didn’t have this deep, unwavering belief in my mission and my ability to make it happen, Caring for Mama simply wouldn’t exist in the way it does now. That decision shaped not only my business but also my leadership philosophy: that sometimes, the boldest moves — the ones that stretch us the most — are the ones that truly define our success.
Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview. Can you share a personal experience where embracing your unique leadership style, which might not align with traditional expectations, led to a significant positive impact in your organization or team?
For a long time, I believed that leadership had to look a certain way — driven, strategic, results-oriented, and, above all, tough. I thought that in order to be taken seriously, I had to underplay the parts of myself that were deeply empathetic, relational, and heart-centered. In past roles, I tried to compartmentalize those so-called “soft” skills — like love, care, and connection — because they weren’t traditionally associated with leadership.
With Caring for Mama, I’m leading from my heart. Instead of hiding my empathy, I’ve made it the foundation of my business. Instead of downplaying my personal story, I shared it openly. And instead of trying to prove I’m “tough enough” to succeed, I’m fully leaning into what I know to be true: that love and care are not weaknesses — they are powerful forces for change.
What’s happened as a result has been nothing short of transformational. The partnerships and opportunities coming my way are happening because of my willingness to lead with heart. People are drawn to Caring for Mama not just because it’s so greatly needed, but because they feel the authenticity behind it. The corporate partners I’m engaging with aren’t just looking for another wellness initiative — they’re looking for something human, meaningful, and real.
This experience is showing me that the world is ready for a different kind of leadership. One that values connection over competition, care over control, and purpose over profit. As mothers, caregivers, and as a society, we need more of this — not less. I no longer question whether my approach is “enough.” I know, without a doubt, that it’s exactly what’s needed.
In your journey as a leader, how have you balanced demonstrating resilience, often seen as a masculine trait, with showing vulnerability, which is equally powerful, but typically feminine? Can you give an example where this balance created a meaningful difference?
I believe resilience and vulnerability aren’t opposites — they go hand in hand. Resilience isn’t just about pushing through challenges; it comes from our ability to be vulnerable with ourselves, with others, and in the situations we face daily. It’s through that vulnerability that we truly understand who we are at our core, recognize what we’re capable of, and find the strength to navigate obstacles.
A perfect example of this is how I started Caring for Mama. I had to be vulnerable enough to share my personal story with the world — to open up about why this work mattered to me, why I felt called to create something new for mothers, and why I believed that care and support should be the foundation of how we treat mothers everywhere. That level of honesty and personal connection became the heartbeat of my business.
At the same time, I needed resilience to push through the realities of launching a startup on my own while raising two young children. There have been moments of doubt, financial risk, and sheer exhaustion, but my deep belief in Caring for Mama has kept me going. The resilience to keep showing up, to refine, to adapt, and to push forward despite challenges has been just as critical as the initial act of vulnerability in sharing my story.
What I’ve learned through this journey is that true strength isn’t about choosing between resilience or vulnerability — it’s about embracing both. When we allow ourselves to be seen, when we lead with honesty and heart, and when we trust ourselves to navigate the hard moments, we create something that is not only successful but deeply meaningful.
As a woman in leadership, how have you navigated and challenged gender stereotypes, especially in situations where traditional male-dominated approaches are the norm? What strategies have you employed to remain authentic to your style?
Throughout my career, I’ve worked in male-dominated industries — from my early years in biotech to working with leadership in public education and later navigating working motherhood in traditionally structured workplaces. Each of these experiences showed me how deeply ingrained gender norms can be in leadership and decision-making. Over time, I realized that the best way for me to fully step into my authentic leadership was to do it on my own — through entrepreneurship.
Now, I choose who I work with through my communications consultancy, and I choose how I lead Caring for Mama. I set the tone for every conversation, partnership, and opportunity, ensuring that my leadership reflects my values of care, connection, and collaboration — qualities often undervalued in traditional leadership spaces but that I know are essential for real, lasting change.
One of the biggest strategies I’ve embraced is staying true to who I am while also being open to new perspectives. I don’t need to fit into outdated leadership molds — I can lead in a way that is both powerful and deeply human. I’ve found that my strength lies in the ability to flex between what I know and what is possible — balancing confidence in my expertise with a willingness to grow and evolve. That’s where I find my power.
By choosing to lead in a way that feels aligned, intentional, and heart-centered, I’m not just challenging stereotypes — I’m actively reshaping them. Caring for Mama is proof that leadership can be built on care, that success can be fueled by empathy, and that stepping into our own version of leadership is the most powerful choice we can make.
How do you utilize emotional intelligence and active listening to create an inclusive environment in your team or organization? Could you share a specific instance where these qualities particularly enhanced team dynamics or performance?”
Emotional intelligence and active listening are at the heart of how I lead. As a highly empathetic person, I naturally pay close attention to conversations, team dynamics, and the unspoken needs of those I’m working with or networking with. I believe that when people feel heard, valued, and aligned with a shared purpose, they show up with more enthusiasm and commitment — creating a strong, collaborative environment.
A perfect example of this was in the early days of Caring for Mama when I pulled together a set of contractors — experts in branding, SEO, and content strategy — to help shape the initial launch. These weren’t just transactional hires; they were trusted collaborators, and I made a point to truly listen to their ideas, expertise, and insights while also sharing my vision openly.
Because I was leading with my heart, everyone around me felt that energy too. They weren’t just executing a project — they became deeply invested in the mission. That sense of enthusiasm and shared purpose created a collaborative, inclusive environment where people felt empowered to bring their best work forward. Instead of a rigid top-down structure, it became a partnership — one where everyone’s contributions were valued, and we all worked toward something bigger than ourselves.
Now, as Caring for Mama scales up, this foundation of empathy, active listening, and emotional intelligence continues to shape every partnership and opportunity. It’s proof that when people feel connected to a vision, they don’t just work for you — they work with you, and that’s where real impact happens.
What role has mentorship played in developing your authentic leadership style, and how do you communicate authentically to inspire and empower both your mentors and mentees?
Mentorship has played a pivotal role in shaping my leadership journey, both as a mentor and a mentee. I believe that mentorship isn’t a one-way street — we learn just as much from those we mentor as we do from those who guide us. That’s why I always keep mentors close and actively seek out accelerators, academies, and founder communities that help me grow my skills as a leader.
I also place a high value on community partnerships for growth. I know that surrounding myself with like-minded entrepreneurs, particularly those who are mission-driven, is one of the best ways to continue learning. Whether it’s through structured programs or organic relationships, I’m always looking for spaces where I can exchange ideas, ask better questions, and refine my vision.
At this point in my career, I only communicate authentically — and that has been incredibly freeing. Instead of trying to appeal to everyone, I trust that the right people will be drawn to my journey. Whether it’s a mentor, a mentee, a business partner, or a collaborator, I know that alignment happens naturally when I lead with my values and vision. That shift in focus — choosing to invest my energy in those who truly resonate with my work — has not only strengthened my leadership but also made every relationship and opportunity more meaningful.
Based on your experience and research, can you please share “5 Ways Leading Authentically As A Woman Will Affect Your Leadership”?
Authentic leadership isn’t just about what you say — it’s about how you show up, the way you treat people, and the example you set every day. As women, we often feel the pressure to lead in a way that fits traditional models of leadership, but I’ve found that the more I lean into my own leadership style, the more powerful and effective I become. Here are five ways leading authentically has shaped my leadership and how it can impact yours, too:
1. Belief in Mission and Vision — It’s Not What You Say, It’s How You Live It
I believe leadership isn’t just about setting a vision — it’s about living it. People don’t follow words; they follow actions. When I launched Caring for Mama, I didn’t just talk about supporting moms — I embodied that mission in every decision, from the way we design our care packages to the corporate wellness partnerships I pursue. I’ve had companies tell me they want to work with me not just because they believe in what Caring for Mama is doing, but because they can see my passion in action. Leading authentically means fully embodying your mission and inspiring others through what you do, not just what you say.
2. Seeing People for Who They Are Isn’t “Soft” — It’s the Core of Human Connection
For too long, emotional intelligence has been labeled as a “soft skill” when in reality, it’s a leadership superpower. People want to work with leaders who not only have a vision and can get the job done, but who genuinely care about the people making it happen. I’ve seen this firsthand when pulling together my team of contractors for Caring for Mama’s launch. Because I saw and valued their unique skills, they weren’t just working for me — they were working with me, invested in the mission just as much as I was. When leaders recognize that everyone brings something special to the table, the entire company thrives.
3. Authenticity is Honesty — Not Always Saying What People Want to Hear
Being an authentic leader means being honest, even when it’s uncomfortable. I believe that when you lead with your heart and see your team as collaborators, candid conversations are essential. This isn’t about being harsh — it’s about communicating with empathy and clarity so that everyone can grow. For example, in my early days of business, I had to have a tough conversation with a partner about misaligned expectations. Instead of avoiding it or sugarcoating, I approached it from a place of honesty and mutual respect. This resulted in a stronger relationship built on trust, not avoidance. When honesty is rooted in care and human connection, it strengthens teams rather than dividing them.
4. Humility — Being Open to Feedback and True Collaboration
Honest conversations aren’t just one way — from leader to team. They have to flow both ways. If your team doesn’t feel heard, they will check out. True collaboration happens when leaders are willing to listen, receive feedback, and adjust when needed. I make it a point to create open lines of communication, whether it’s asking for input on strategy, adjusting based on feedback, or recognizing when someone else has a better idea than I do. One of my biggest lessons came from reworking Caring for Mama’s first product offerings based on early feedback. Instead of taking it personally, I saw it as an opportunity to refine and improve. Leaders who stay open to feedback create environments where innovation and loyalty thrive.
5. Taking Care of Yourself — Leading Wellness by Example
I tell myself every day: If I’m not taking care of this mama first, then I’m not doing it right. Burnout has become so widespread because we’ve lost sight of what real self-care looks like. As leaders, we have an opportunity — not just to talk about well-being, but to demonstrate it. I’ve learned firsthand that if I don’t take care of myself, I can’t take care of my business, my family, or my team. Whether it’s setting boundaries, prioritizing sleep, or modeling a culture where rest is valued, self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity. When leaders take care of themselves, they empower others to do the same, and the whole organization benefits.
Authentic leadership isn’t about fitting into someone else’s mold — it’s about embracing your strengths, leading with purpose, and bringing your whole self to the table. When we live our mission, value people, speak honestly, stay open to growth, and prioritize our well-being, we don’t just become better leaders — we create a ripple effect that changes the way leadership looks and feels for everyone around us.
Are there potential pitfalls or challenges associated with being an empathetic leader? How can these be addressed?
Empathy is a powerful leadership tool, but like any strength, it comes with its challenges. One of the biggest pitfalls of being an empathetic leader is becoming too focused on what everyone else is thinking or saying — to the point where it starts to dilute decision-making. While listening, adapting, and considering multiple perspectives are essential, there’s a fine line between empathy and allowing external opinions to dictate every move.
I’ve learned that true leadership requires both empathy and clarity — knowing when to adjust based on feedback and when to stand firm in your vision. The key is balancing flexibility with a strong core. At Caring for Mama, I deeply value collaboration and input from my team, partners, and customers, but I also recognize that I’m the one responsible for holding the bigger vision. If I were to pivot based on every piece of feedback without anchoring myself in my mission, the brand would lose its identity.
To navigate this challenge, I focus on:
- Grounding decisions in the company’s mission and values — When faced with differing opinions, I ask: Does this align with what we stand for? Will this help us move forward in a way that makes sense for our long-term vision? If the answer is no, I don’t implement the change, even if it’s coming from a place of empathy.
- Creating space for feedback without losing ownership of decisions — I make it clear that I value input, but I also set expectations that not every idea will be acted on. Leadership isn’t about saying yes to everything — it’s about making thoughtful, strategic choices based on both data and intuition.
- Recognizing when empathy turns into people-pleasing — It’s easy to confuse empathy with the need to make everyone happy. But I remind myself that not everyone has to agree with every decision — what matters is that I lead with integrity, clarity, and care.
Being an empathetic leader doesn’t mean sacrificing direction for the sake of harmony. The strongest leaders know how to honor empathy while maintaining focus, ensuring that their vision stays intact while still allowing for flexibility and evolution.
You are a person of great influence. If you could start a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger. 🙂
I’ve already started the movement — Caring for Mama — because I believe that when we truly support mothers, we uplift entire families, workplaces, and communities. The way we care for moms today is broken. Too often, they are expected to push through exhaustion, physical recovery, and emotional shifts with little to no real support. My vision is to change that narrative, to make sure mothers everywhere feel seen, valued, and cared for, no matter their age, income level, or stage of motherhood.
This isn’t just about care packages — it’s about reshaping the way society thinks about maternal wellness. It’s about making workplaces more supportive for moms, ensuring that communities rally around them, and shifting the cultural mindset so that caring for mothers isn’t an afterthought — it’s a priority.
I’m hopeful that people reading this resonate with that vision and reach out to get involved — whether that’s through corporate partnerships, advocacy, or simply by recognizing the mothers in their own lives who need more support. Caring for Mama is more than a business; it’s a movement toward a world where moms no longer feel like they have to do it all alone.
Because when we care for mothers, we change everything.
How can our readers further follow you online?
You can follow me and Caring for Mama online here:
Website: caringformama.co
Instagram: @caringformama.co
LinkedIn: Kim Richards
YouTube: Caring for Mama
I’d love to connect with anyone who resonates with our mission — whether you’re a mom, a supporter of moms, or someone looking to bring real change to how we care for caregivers. Let’s build this movement together!
Thank you for the time you spent sharing these fantastic insights. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
Leading with Heart: Kim Richards Of Caring for Mama On The Power of Authentic Women’s Leadership was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.