Welcome back to Leadership Lab, where we don’t just talk about leadership theory, we experiment with real, practical steps you can instantly apply. On today’s episode, host Jamie McKinney sits down with Lauren Palandino, a seasoned continuous improvement professional, to tackle one of the most elusive challenges facing high achievers: work-life balance.

But Lauren didn’t just try to chase balance - she’s helping us redefine it. Instead of striving for a perfect, unattainable equilibrium, Lauren shares the empowering metaphor that changed everything for her: life’s priorities as piano keys, not a set of rigid levers. With major “white key” priorities, smaller “black key” commitments, and the freedom to play chords rather than just single notes, Lauren shows us how to find a more forgiving, achievable rhythm as a leader, a parent, and a person.

Along the way, Jamie and Lauren get real about anxiety, boundaries, organizational chaos, and the everyday moments that add up, like five sips of water or five minutes reading to her son. Lauren opens up about the emotional journey of embracing her new identity as a mom, finding creativity in goal setting, and the power of accountability partners on the path to personal and professional growth.

Ready to ditch perfection and embrace progress? This episode is packed with practical strategies, relatable stories, and just the right amount of encouragement for anyone struggling to juggle work, family, and self-care, all culminating in Lauren’s celebration of a well-earned promotion, on her own terms.

So tune in, grab your metaphorical piano, and get ready to experiment with a new approach to work-life rhythm, progress over perfection, every time.