Books & Press

“Steliana van de Rijt-Economu has written a beautiful book that should be on everyone’s bookshelf – for we are all part of families. She presents many practical ways for a family to be more than the sum of its parts. Central to this is the shift from each family member asking, ‘What do I want or need from my family?’ to , ‘What does the family need from each of us?'”

Professor Peter Hawkins, England

“I read this book with the eyes of a leadership coach, the mind of a leader, and the heart of a mother whose rhythm beats endlessly for her family. It made me sigh, cry, and laugh all at once.”.”

Manbir Kaur, Board Chair – Professional Coaches, ICF

“This book is a powerful reminder that the strongest teams feel like families-not because everything is easy, but because they are built on trust, shared purpose, and the courage to have the tough conversations. A must-read for any leader looking to build a lasting culture.”

– Emily Hilton, Head of Strategic Programs, BHP

“Deeply-rooted personal stories of love, trust, and respect-from parent-leaders across the world-serve as an invitation for reflection and action. This book challenges you to reconsider your communication style and inspires you to build lasting connections with those who matter most.”

– Jennifer Hughes, Sr. Director, Cyclyx International

Grab a copy

Mothers as Leaders

In Mothers as Leaders, the life wisdom and experiences of 20 powerful, inspiring mothers, fathers, and leaders are shared. Their compelling stories are told with humor and honesty.

Mothers as leaders

ORDER

“Whether you have children yourself or not (yet), the stories of the interviewed fathers and mothers are truly inspiring. The questions in the book encouraged me to reflect on how I organize my life, both at work and in my personal sphere. And it’s an enjoyable read. That’s why I would recommend the book.”

Lydwine Janssen, HRM, The Netherlands

“Not only did I get to read this wonderful book, but I also was lucky enough to join one of Steliana’s sessions . This book gave me the perspective that leadership is something that must embraced as it comes. There is not one story that is the same in her book, yet all the mothers are a great example of leadership.”

Carolina Diaz, Technical Engineer, United States

“Although I am not a mother myself, I truly enjoyed this book. As it reminds us, we all have mothers, and after reading this moving work I felt inspired to interview my own mother and discover who she was before she became a parent. While the title highlights mothers, this book is truly for everyone — men, women, mothers, fathers, and those without children.”

Hedda Chester, Recruiter, The Netherlands

“ I truly enjoyed the book and related so much to the inspiring stories shared in there. It is a great read and I’ve actually found new insights each time I’ve re-read a story. Being a working mom this spoke right to my heart.“

Y M Khanbhai, Strategy Adviser, United States

Radio

If you’d like to get a feel for Steliana’s inspiring message to young mothers—especially Dutch mothers balancing professional roles and family life—listen to her 2020 Hey Holland podcast interview, where she shares her journey as an international mum in the Netherlands and her vision from Mothers as Leaders.

podcast

PRESS

For the launch of the Dutch edition, Steliana van de Rijt, and the book were featured in the January 2021 edition of the AD Haagse Courant.

Feature

AUDIOBOOK

Mothers as Leaders is also available on Audible! Accessible and engaging, the audiobook invites listeners to reflect, learn, and grow while being on the move. Start listening today.

BUY ON AMAZON