In our first Series 15 episode of the Big Careers, Small Children podcast, Verena Hefti MBE speaks with Dan Reed, Director, Head of Digital at KPMG UK, about why being a parent doesn’t have to hold back your career, and how embracing authenticity at work can actually propel you forward.

Dan shares his journey of juggling career progression with fatherhood, how therapy helped him overcome guilt and set boundaries, and why he refuses to hide his parenting role in the workplace. He also discusses why being open about family life has strengthened his leadership and career confidence, rather than limiting opportunities.

Together, they explore:

• Why working parents shouldn’t have to choose between career success and family.
• The importance of setting work-life boundaries before burnout hits.
• How openly integrating parenthood into your professional identity can lead to leadership opportunities.
• The impact of finding “your tribe” and why mentoring matters.
• Why authenticity builds career confidence and can lead to promotions.
• Whether you’re navigating career growth, dealing with guilt, or looking for practical ways to set work-life boundaries, this episode is packed with honesty, inspiration, and actionable advice.

✔️ How to be authentic at work without fear of judgment.

✔️ Why setting work-life boundaries early prevents burnout.

✔️ How being open about parenthood can create leadership opportunities.

✔️ The role of therapy, communication, and mentorship in career success.

✔️ How to build a career that fits your life, and not the other way around.

Show Notes:

• Connect with Dan Reed on LinkedIn
• Follow Dan on TikTok – Career Dad on TikTok (42,000+ followers)
• Learn more about the Leaders Plus: Big Careers, Small Children podcast and explore additional resources at leadersplus.org.
• Follow Leaders Plus on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Bluesky.
• Connect with our CEO, Verena Hefti MBE on LinkedIn.
• Find out more about the work of Leaders Plus by signing up to our Newsletter.

Our multi-award-winning Leaders Plus Fellowships support parents committed to career growth while enjoying family life. Expertly designed to keep parents on the leadership path, our programme tackles gender pay gap issues and empowers parents to thrive. Learn more here: Leaders Plus Fellowship.

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