More and more, mamas and papas are leaving their desk jobs behind to start their own businesses (cue the mompreneur phenomenon). But before you put in your notice, you should meet Caroline Greene. Caroline’s a recovering lawyer turned life and business coach (and best-selling Amazon author) who helps moms start businesses and build lives that truly matter to them. This D.C.-based mom of two daughters shared some of her wisdom for moms as well as some local family hangouts that you’ll want to check out asap. 

Photo: Caroline Greene

 

You’re the author of two Determined Mom’s Guides. What will readers find in these guides?
The Determined Mom’s Guides are short, easy-to-read books with actionable steps to help moms be the parents, partners and whole people they want to be. My first book, MATTER, tells the story of how I went from being an Ivy-league educated lawyer to a stay-at-home mom to a life coach, and shares the tips and tools I learned along the way to help other moms find meaningful work. My second book, NEXT, shares all of the mistakes I made when launching my business (and provides a practical, step-by-step guide on how to avoid them) to help moms can start successful businesses that are right for them and their families without making all the same missteps I did!

What’s the one thing you’d tell a parent looking to start a new business in the DMV?
Don’t do it alone. The myth of self-sufficiency is an all-powerful one, especially in the DMV area. All too often it tells us that if we’re “good enough” to start a business then we’d better be “good enough” to do it all by ourselves. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. Whether it’s getting more help in the house, reworking your tacit arrangements with your partner, or hiring a guide or mentor to help you navigate your business launch, get the help that’s right for you so that you can enjoy your time – at work and home.

You’ve got a free hour between appointments and pick-up. Where do you go for some “me time”?
You know, not too long ago, that very question would have put me into a panic. “What is ‘me’ time? Who gets to have that? I don’t even know what that means! “ But I’m delighted to tell you that with the help of my own coach, I’ve finally tapped into the things that bring me joy and actually give myself permission to do them. My current favorites are taking a walk or heading down to the Key Bridge Boathouse to jump on a paddleboard.

What’s your favorite go-to restaurant for family dinners?
If I’m choosing, Cactus Cantina! If the kids are choosing, Café Deluxe (which they call Lucky Moo Moos. I have absolutely no idea why.)

What’s the best part of being a parent in D.C.?
As someone who would rather be on the beach year round than live in a big city, I sometimes find it hard to embrace living in D.C., but the truth is, it’s a wonderful place to raise a family. Between the Kennedy Center, the Udvar-Hazy center, and the beautiful parks and playgrounds all over the city, there is never a shortage of things to do—assuming I can get everybody out of the house to go do them!

Do you know a cool mom or dad that everyone in the District should know, too? Tell us about them in the comments below. 

—Sarah Vogel

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