In this special feature, EO Portland mothers and founders reflect on the ways motherhood has transformed how they lead, define success, take risks, and build community. Their stories are honest, thoughtful, and deeply personal, filled with lessons on resilience, boundaries, ambition, presence, and purpose.

EO Portland Board Member and CEO of Casework, Casey Keasler, sat down with Arielle Weedman to discuss the realities of building a business while raising a family

In what ways has motherhood strengthened your leadership skills?

Motherhood has reinforced the importance of being present. Work-life balance is not just a nice idea; it is something you have to actively protect. There are moments when I need to let go of work and be fully present with my children, and moments when I need to be present with myself as an individual.

It has also made me more compassionate. Having more people in your life can mean more complications, and those complications are real and often out of our control. 

What advice would you give your younger self about balancing business growth with raising a family?

Balance is not meant to look the same in every season. There will be times when you can give more energy to your company, and times when your family needs more of you. That is not failure; that is life.

I would also remind myself to take advantage of the flexibility entrepreneurship can offer. It is okay to take time for your family and enjoy the years when your children are little and changing so quickly. Business growth matters, but so does being present for the life you are building outside of it.

What skill have you developed as a parent that benefits your business today?

Bedtime routines. Truly. Parenting has taught me the value of rhythm, consistency, and knowing when the day is done. In business, it is easy to keep pushing and convince yourself that productivity means always being available.

I have learned to respect the reset. Go to bed, get some sleep, stay in once in a while, and try the reverse of sleeping in: going to bed early! It is amazing what a rested mind can do for your leadership, decision-making, and patience.

What would you tell another mother who wants to build something meaningful?  

You can do this. You are capable. There will be hard seasons, and that is to be expected when you are building something meaningful while raising a family.