January 13, 2025

C-Suite Moms: Rachelle Rutherford of Kids on the Move On How To Successfully Juggle Motherhood and Work

Posted January 13, 2025

Decide now the type of relationship you want to have with your children when they become teenagers and adults. Reverse engineer into that goal. Identify what actions are required daily, weekly and monthly to have that outcome. Do what is required every single day.

Intoday’s fast-paced business world, women in executive roles face the unique challenge of balancing high-powered careers with the demands of motherhood. Despite progress in workplace equality, female executives often carry a disproportionate share of domestic responsibilities. How do these successful women manage both spheres of their lives so effectively? In this interview series, we would like to explore this intricate balance and we are talking to women executives from various industries who are also mothers, to share their insights and strategies for successfully juggling their professional and personal lives. As a part of this series, we had the pleasure of interviewing Rachelle Rutherford.

Rachelle Rutherford leads Kids on the Move, a nonprofit that is reshaping how we support families with children with disabilities. Under her leadership, KOTM has grown into a lifeline for thousands, offering essential programs that deliver lasting change. Rutherford specializes in corporate restructuring, revenue growth, and nonprofit strategy. She also holds the titles of Mrs. World America and Mrs. World America Fitness, using her platform to champion children’s rights and community advocacy.

Thank you so much for joining us! Can you tell us the “backstory” behind what brought you to this point in your career?

The journey to where I am today has been shaped by a blend of academic dedication, life experience, system-building both at home and in the workplace, a willingness to imagine new possibilities, and the belief that success is multi-dimensional. My full backstory could fill a novel, but the condensed version is this: I grew my family to six children while simultaneously working full-time and earning two bachelor’s degrees in business management and finance, followed by a master’s degree.

It might sound ambitious — perhaps even a little crazy — but I managed it all through a combination of bold decisions, unforeseen challenges, and the occasional “what if.” This experience taught me that the road to success is rarely straightforward, but it’s always meaningful and often surprising.

As Walt Disney once said, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible,” and I’d add that the impossible is often just the uncharted.

Can you share with us how many children you have?

I am a mother of six kids — three girls and three boys — ranging from the ages of 12–24. And yes, these were all separate pregnancies, no twins, no adoptions, no blended family members.

Where were you in your career when your first child was born/became part of your family?

Having six children has meant that they’ve always been an integral part of my journey. When our first child arrived, my husband and I had been married for five years. At the time, I was working as a national account manager for Sprint (now T-Mobile), and just four months after his birth, I returned to work while also deciding to go back to school to earn my degree.

This pattern — balancing work, school, and growing our family — became the rhythm of my life. It was a cycle of working, studying, and welcoming a new child into the world. The only break I took from school was after my fifth child, just before I started my master’s program. About nine months into that program, I discovered I was expecting our sixth child. Determined to stay on track, I accelerated my studies, completing a two-year program in just 17 months to beat my due date.

Life has a way of surprising you. You think you’ve got everything meticulously planned, but the reality often feels like an illusion of control. That’s where the magic unfolds, though. Looking back, I can’t help but marvel and think, “Wow, I really did that!” I completed my final master’s class when my youngest was just two weeks old — while my fifth and sixth children were only 23 months apart. That chapter of my life was nothing short of a whirlwind, but it was also an unforgettable adventure.

Did you always want to be a mother? Can you explain?

I’ve always wanted to be a mother, though I understood from an early age that motherhood is a profound responsibility. Growing up as the second oldest of seven children, I witnessed firsthand the dedication and hard work it demands. That understanding is part of why I chose to wait five years into my marriage before starting a family — though, in retrospect, I could have waited even longer. I wanted to be certain I was ready for such a life-changing commitment.

When the time felt right — when my inner voice said, “It’s time” — I embraced motherhood wholeheartedly. I trusted my intuition and had six children, even though some people questioned the practicality of such a choice while balancing school and work. Shortly after my youngest child was born, my husband became seriously ill and eventually battled cancer, which left him sterile. Looking back, I feel affirmed in my decisions. I knew what was best for me and my family, despite others’ opinions.

Motherhood was always a calling for me. There’s no way to truly understand or experience it other than by becoming a mother yourself, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

Did motherhood happen when you thought it would or did it take longer? If it took longer, what advice would you have for another woman in your shoes?

Timing is relative when it comes to starting a family. We waited five years before having children, and once we started, it was “go time” — six kids in 12 years. For some, a shorter timeline might feel right; for others, a longer one. What matters is that my babies came exactly when they were meant to, even if our circumstances weren’t perfect.

Perfect timing is personal, not universal.

My biggest advice is this: don’t wait. There will never be a “right time,” a “perfect time,” or an “easy time.” Life doesn’t unfold according to a flawless schedule, and chasing what’s socially or culturally deemed “right” often leads to predictable and unfulfilling outcomes.

Careers come and go, corporations rise and fall, but motherhood is forever. If becoming a mother is something you deeply desire, choose it — not because it’s expected, but because it’s what you truly want. There’s nothing more significant or enduring.

Life is full of uncertainties. You can’t predict fertility challenges, relationship changes, or other circumstances that may shape your path to motherhood. There are no guarantees. Planning, as reassuring as it may feel, is ultimately just an illusion of control. Trust your heart, and don’t let the fear of imperfect timing hold you back.

Time will pass, jump in with both feet.

What is it like to be the provider? Have you sat in that chair?

Being a partner in providing for my family has given me a profound appreciation for the unique pressures and responsibilities that come with that role. It’s a perspective that deepened my respect for men, as well as anyone who shoulders the weight of being a provider. Until you’ve experienced it yourself, it’s hard to fully grasp the stress and accountability it entails.

At the same time, I’ve also lived the unorthodox reality of being both a mom and a provider — a role that’s often met with surprise, confusion, and sometimes judgment. From the beginning, people were shocked to learn I had six children and still chose to pursue a corporate career. But for me, the question was always, “Why can’t I do both?”

The phrase “working mom” has always felt redundant to me — mothers are always working, whether inside or outside the home. I chose this path because it fulfilled me. It wasn’t about rejecting one role for the other; it was about embracing both. Business and system-building have always been passions of mine, places where I feel creative and energized. Just as people carve out time for hobbies or personal interests, I carved out space for a career because it matters to me.

Can you tell us a bit about what your day-to-day schedule looks like?

In a word: busy. But it’s the kind of busy I cherish. Every day is different, and I carve out time to embrace it all — balancing meetings, strategy sessions, and deep work with doctor’s appointments, basketball games, and musical performances. No two days look alike, and I’ve learned to find joy in the unpredictability.

It’s a beautiful, chaotic dance between work and home life, where I try to flow gracefully from one moment to the next. Some days, everything aligns perfectly, and I feel like I’ve mastered the balance. Other days, it’s messier, more improvised, and that’s okay too. The key for me is staying present, focusing on what matters most in the moment, and giving myself grace when things aren’t perfect.

What keeps me grounded is the knowledge that this “dance” is a privilege — to be fully engaged in both my career and my family. It’s not about having it all together every day; it’s about embracing the journey with intention, love, and a little bit of flexibility.

Has being a parent changed your career path? Can you explain?

Being a parent hasn’t changed my career path, but I understand that it can for others based on their priorities and what matters most to them. If your season in life calls for spending more time with your children, embrace it fully. Own it. Celebrate it. There’s strength in making choices that align with your values.

For me, the question has always been, Why can’t I do both? And why does it have to look a certain way? Early in my career, I felt pressure to conform to an idea of what “professionalism” should be. One day, my son called to tell me about a performance he wanted me to attend. I was preparing for a meeting scheduled at the same time and explained the situation to my boss. His response changed everything: “Why are you still here? Go to your son’s performance.” That moment reminded me that balance is possible. Meetings can be rescheduled, deadlines adjusted, and priorities honored.

In another role, I was fortunate to work from home with occasional business trips. At the time, my husband also worked from home, and we had the support of a nanny. Between conference calls, I could take breaks to spend time with my kids, ensuring they felt loved and supported throughout the day. I recognize that not everyone has this luxury, but for us, it worked beautifully and reinforced the idea that professional success and parental presence don’t have to be mutually exclusive.

Ultimately, it’s not about choosing one role over the other — it’s about redefining what success looks like. We can make room for both. Parenthood isn’t an obstacle to a meaningful career; it’s a powerful reminder of what truly matters.

Has being a mother made you better at your job? How so?

Absolutely. Motherhood has made me better at my job in countless ways. Mothers are natural multitaskers, master planners, and extraordinary directors of operations. The role requires constant adaptability — pivoting daily to address the unknown and unexpected. This relentless problem-solving prepares us to function at a very high level in any work environment.

As a mother, I’ve become a creative problem solver, a natural leader, a builder of systems, a keen observer of inefficiencies, and a tracker of patterns. The skills I’ve honed managing and leading a household translate seamlessly into managing and leading in the professional world — just on a different scale.

Mothers anticipate needs, think thoughtfully, act efficiently, and innovate solutions, all of which are invaluable in the workplace. Parenthood isn’t just a personal journey; it’s a master class in leadership and strategic thinking.

What are the biggest challenges you face being a working mom?

Being a working mom of six children brings its own set of challenges, with time being the biggest one. My kids are involved in so many activities — sports, choir, school plays, music, service projects, and more — and when you have six of them, it means a lot of overlapping events. My husband and I often divide and conquer so we can both attend, but there are times when I wish I could be at every event. It’s tough when I have to choose which child to support, especially when I want to be there for all of them.

Another challenge I deal with is the mom guilt. It comes up often, and I’ve had to learn how to self-regulate and manage it. As someone who tends to be “all or nothing,” it’s hard to switch between being fully present with my kids at home and then focusing on work. When I’m home, I feel guilty about the emails piling up, and when I’m at work, I feel guilty about not being with my kids. Over time, I’ve learned that it’s not about being there all the time, but about making the time I do have with them meaningful. By focusing on quality moments, I can feel more present and less overwhelmed, whether I’m at work or with my kids.

Are there any stories you remember from the early days of parenthood that you want to share?

The funniest stories I can laugh about now all seem to involve me falling — probably because I’ve had some epic falls! There was this one time I was carrying my baby to the car to strap him into his car seat, and, of course, it was black ice season. As I stepped onto the ice, I instantly slipped, and without thinking, I wrapped myself around him to shield him from the fall. It all happened in slow motion — I could almost hear the dramatic music playing in the background. Down I went, landing on the ice, and then I kept sliding under the car like a human sled. It was one of those moments where I was so thankful for my motherly instinct to protect him, but also terrified for my own life. We can laugh about it now, but I wasn’t laughing at the time!

Then there was the time one of my kids wasn’t feeling well, and I was in full emergency mode, rushing him to the bathroom. He didn’t quite make it, and, well, let’s just say the floor got an unexpected “gift.” As if things couldn’t get worse, we both slipped on the vomit, crashing to the ground in a glorious pile of chaos. Without missing a beat, I yelled for my husband, plopped my poor son into the bath, and tip-toed — no, more like gracefully — to the shower to wash off the mess. I’m pretty sure I was trying to be as dainty as possible while stepping over puddles of vomit, but let’s be real: that shower felt like a victory lap.

Are there any meaningful activities or traditions you’ve made up or implemented that have enhanced your time with your family? Can you share a story or example?

When I was in the corporate world, I knew my value. I was a dedicated worker, always striving to make a significant impact and leaving things better than I found them. I was confident in the quality of my work, and I understood the value I brought to the table. This wasn’t about arrogance, but about knowing my worth and the irreplaceable role I played.

During one of my promotions, I made a request that many people, regardless of gender, might have hesitated to ask: I requested the entire month of June off to be with my family. My employer initially responded by saying, “That’s not something we do.” But I wasn’t deterred. I explained that I understood the revenue I helped generate, the effort I put into my work, and the importance of feeling supported in return. I told them that it was essential for me to unplug and make lasting memories with my young children. I proposed a compromise — working a few short hours each morning while still having the freedom to be present with my family. After some negotiation, they agreed.

After I left that role, I carried that same request into my future positions. With each new job, I never accepted a lateral move and always asked for more — whether it was flexibility or new opportunities. I knew my time was valuable and that I had earned the right to set boundaries that allowed me to invest in what mattered most — my family.

This became a key theme in my professional life: advocating for my needs. Being clear about what you want and asking for it, confidently and respectfully, is a superpower. I believe that if you do the work and prove your worth, you deserve to ask for what will make your life better. For me, June is sacred, and I won’t compromise on that time. It’s a reminder to always advocate for what truly matters, both personally and professionally.

We all live in a world with many deadlines and incessant demands for our time and attention. That inevitably makes us feel rushed, and we may feel that we can’t spare the time to be “fully present” with our children.

Can you share with our readers 5 strategies about how we can create more space in our lives in order to give our children more quality attention?

1. Decide now the type of relationship you want to have with your children when they become teenagers and adults. Reverse engineer into that goal. Identify what actions are required daily, weekly and monthly to have that outcome. Do what is required every single day.

2. Begin a bedtime routine with your children as toddlers, tuck them in, talk with them and pray with them. Continue this routine until age 18. Yes, until age 18. You will discover your children will look forward to having you spend time with them individually, and in those moments as you are consistent they will be open and share their struggles, worries and thoughts with you. You will build a strong, close connection with them. I have done this with all six of my children.

3. I plan a date night with my children one-on-one, even if it’s a walk, doing an activity together, where they have my undivided attention and focus.

4. I take a minute in the car to reset as I transition from a CEO to Mom. I turn off my phone, set it in my bedroom, and choose to be present in the moment and go all-in on my kids.

5. I remove tasks that consume time, cleaning my home, grocery shopping, yard work, etc., so when I am home I can be with my children and not fill my time with a to-do list.

How do you inspire your child to “dream big”? Can you give an example or story?

I empower my children by giving them autonomy and not micromanaging them. I believe that dreaming big starts with having the space to explore who they are, what they value, and what excites them. Instead of handing them a pre-determined blueprint for life, I encourage them to take ownership of their decisions, even when it means making mistakes along the way. Autonomy builds confidence, and confidence fuels the courage to dream boldly.

For example, when one of my children expressed an interest in starting a small business as a teenager, I didn’t immediately step in to organize it for them or dictate how it should be done. Instead, I asked open-ended questions: What’s your plan? What do you think your first steps should be? How will you handle challenges? This empowered them to take initiative, research on their own, and troubleshoot problems. I served as a guide and cheerleader, not a manager, allowing them to feel the pride of their achievements and learn resilience when things didn’t go perfectly.

I’ve found that autonomy also involves letting them experience the natural consequences of their choices. When they succeed, they own that success. When they stumble, they learn to reflect, pivot, and keep moving forward. It’s through this process that they develop a sense of self-efficacy — the belief that they are capable of shaping their own future.

Dreaming big isn’t just about ambition; it’s about believing in your ability to navigate the journey toward those dreams. By giving my children the freedom to dream, make choices, and grow from their experiences, I’m not just inspiring them to think big — I’m equipping them with the skills to make those dreams a reality.

How do you define success in both your career and your family life, and how has this definition evolved over time?

I define success in my career by the impact I create. It’s not just about accomplishments or accolades but about how I’ve used my time to make a meaningful difference in the world. Have I contributed something of value? Have I helped others, inspired change, or improved lives in a way that matters?

I deeply value my time, and if I’m going to dedicate 40+ hours a week to work, it must have purpose and impact. I constantly ask myself: Am I living up to my full divine potential? Is my work aligned with my purpose and mission on this earth? For me, success means that my efforts not only create meaningful change but also help me develop the skills, talents, and character needed to become the best version of myself. If the answer to those questions is “yes,” then I know I am truly succeeding.

When it comes to family, success is deeply tied to the quality and character of my children. It’s not about perfection but about raising individuals who are resilient, resourceful, and capable of navigating life’s inevitable challenges. Can they solve problems creatively? Do they rise after failure with grace and determination? Can they self-reflect and course-correct when needed?

I also measure success by my children’s emotional intelligence and humanity. Are they kind, genuine, and empathetic? Can they lead with confidence, advocate for themselves, and remain judgment-free while staying open to different perspectives? To me, true success is about preparing them to be thoughtful, courageous, and compassionate contributors to the world.

Equally important is their relationship with their Creator. Have I helped them cultivate a meaningful connection with God? I believe He is the ultimate comforter and master problem solver, someone they can turn to long after I am gone. Ensuring they have that foundation is one of the greatest gifts I can give them.

My definition of success is, in a word, holistic. It’s about the legacy I leave — both in the lives I’ve touched professionally and the family I’ve nurtured. Success, to me, is about balance: making a difference while empowering the next generation to do the same.

What are your favorite books, podcasts, or resources that inspire you to be a better parent? Can you explain why you like them?

I wish I had more time to dive into podcasts and read multiple books, but one of the most valuable resources I rely on is my motherly intuition. For me, it’s essential to be attuned to my children’s energy — to sense when something feels off or not quite right. As a mother, staying connected to your kids allows you to ask yourself in those moments, “What would I have wanted from my own parents in this situation?”

It’s a reminder that you are the resource. You’re the mom. Trust yourself — you know what’s best for your children.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote” that you share or plan to share with your kids?

The Rutherfords are teachers, not followers. We value critical thinking and encourage challenging the status quo. I often ask, “Who said it has to be this way?” There are no fixed rules — carve your own path, blaze a new trail, and redefine what you want for yourself.

I also remind my family of the power of perspective. With a snap of my fingers, I’ll say, “Decide what your attitude and outlook will be.” You can change your mindset in an instant. Allow yourself a set amount of time to feel discouraged, disappointed, or defeated, but then make the choice to say, “Okay, I’m ready to move forward, and I will determine how I view and approach this challenge.” You are the creator of your life.

If you could sit down with every new parent and offer life hacks, must-have products, or simple advice, what would be on your list?

Maximize your time. Time management is everything when you’re juggling work and family. Prioritize tasks ruthlessly. Use your calendar as a weapon — schedule everything from meetings to meal prep to family downtime. Delegate whenever possible, whether at home or at work. For example, don’t hesitate to assign age-appropriate chores to your kids, hire a house cleaner if it’s in the budget, or ask your partner to share the mental load. Work smarter, not harder, and learn to let go of things that don’t truly matter.

Create space. Too often, we avoid dealing with tantrums or the uncomfortable moments of parenting, when in reality, they’re just part of the package. As young moms, we’re often driven by an endless to-do list, and in the process, we can forget to let our kids simply be kids. If I could go back, I would have embraced the chaos and not let the pressures of the world spill over onto my children. I would have reminded myself to stop, be present, and not project adult concerns onto them. As parents, we are the shield for our kids. I’m the parent, they’re the child, and it’s my responsibility to keep my emotions in check. I’m modeling self-regulation for them, so it’s important to respect them and lead by example — no swearing, no yelling. They’re not disrespectful because I don’t act disrespectfully toward them.

Be Intentional. Balancing work and family life is not about doing it all — it’s about doing what matters most. Let go of things that don’t matter. Be intentional with your energy. If you’re at work, focus on work; if you’re with your kids, be fully present. Even short, quality time with your family is more impactful than hours spent distracted. Decide what’s important to you — whether it’s family dinners, bedtime stories, or weekend adventures — and guard those priorities fiercely.

Own your decisions. As a working mom, you’ll hear every opinion under the sun: “You should stay home more.” “You should work harder.” Forget all that. You’re charting your own path. Whether you’re scaling the corporate ladder, freelancing from home, or balancing a part-time job, know that your choices are valid. Success looks different for everyone, and what matters is that you’re building a life that works for you and your family.

Get creative with balancing it all. Work-life balance isn’t a fixed destination; it’s a constantly shifting dance. Embrace flexibility wherever you can. Build systems to streamline your life — like pre-planning outfits for the week, setting up recurring grocery deliveries, or creating family routines that free up mental space. Get creative with boundaries, like setting a “no work after 6 p.m.” rule or dedicating specific days to focus on family. And remember, there will be seasons where work takes precedence and others where family needs more of you — and that’s okay.

C-Suite Moms: Rachelle Rutherford of Kids on the Move On How To Successfully Juggle Motherhood and Work | by Dina Aletras | Authority Magazine | Dec, 2024 | Medium

Mat Dastrup, CFO

Mat Datstrop, Chief Financial Officer at KOTM, truly embodies a blend of expertise and visionary leadership. Joining Kids on the Move in September 2019, Mat brought a rich history of accomplishments, having served as CFO for manufacturing and software companies. His successful track record includes starting and selling three businesses, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and strategic insight. As a licensed CPA and a Six Sigma Black Belt, Mat’s skill set is uniquely suited to driving innovation and accuracy within financial processes. His passion for integrating technology and developing robust accounting systems positions KOTM for long-term success. In his role, Mat is deeply dedicated to creating sustainable impacts that will echo throughout KOTM for decades. His presence in the organization is marked by a steadfast commitment to fostering an environment of lasting change, ensuring families benefit from his transformative work well into the future.

Ryan Erickson, COO

Ryan Erickson, the Chief Operating Officer of KOTM, brings a wealth of experience and a passionate commitment to nurturing innovation and growth. With over two decades spent as a thought leader and innovator in executive leadership roles across the medical, technical consulting, and information technology sectors, Ryan’s expertise is unparalleled. His dedication to mentoring entrepreneurs and CEOs on transforming ideas into reality speaks to his compassionate nature and deep-seated commitment to growth. Ryan views his role at KOTM as a unique opportunity to guide the organization into its next 40 years, shaping a resilient and forward-thinking future. His diverse skill set enables KOTM to not only meet current challenges with agility but also to strategically position itself for sustainable development and lasting impact. Under Ryan’s committed leadership, KOTM continues to inspire hope and innovation, reinforcing its status as a beacon of support and transformation for families everywhere.

Rachelle Rutherford, CEO

Rutherford is the strategic visionary and Chief Executive Officer of Kids on the Move (KOTM). A multifaceted and sophisticated businesswoman, she has led the trailblazing multimillion-dollar non-profit in its commitment to providing essential and comprehensive support, education, and therapies for children with delays and disabilities.  Rutherford has now spent 20 years in executive leadership roles within the telecommunications, genealogy, real estate, health care services, and education industries. Her notable contributions lie in her perseverance to find impossible and impactful solutions. Rutherford is skilled at reverse-engineering goals by mapping out exactly what is required for a successful outcome.

To help raise $150M to expand KOTM’s support services and establish a state-of-the-art center, Rutherford has partnered with Forbes Books to author and publish Chasing The Impossible, a captivating exposé delving into Kids on the Move’s transformative work. With it, she uncovers the compelling stories of resilience and hope from children, families, doctors, and community members who tenaciously pushed forward when faced with impossible odds or challenges.

Her profound understanding of what it takes to overcome the impossible stems from her own journey as a survivor of abuse and trauma, which has shaped her philanthropic missions, her intuitive nature, and her steadfast leadership. As a CEO, mom, speaker, and philanthropist, Rutherford believes discipline is one of the highest forms of self-love, consistently putting in the necessary work every single day to provide impactful solutions for others, promote a balanced and holistic lifestyle, and create opportunities for continuous growth and empowerment around the world.