podcast 011: family is a system, not a solo act
In this episode, Deb welcomes back Libby Baney for a conversation about how flourishing doesn't just happen at work—it’s built (or broken) through the relationships that shape our daily lives.
“Confidence doesn’t come from safety. It comes from trying, failing, and knowing someone will always have your back.”
From parenting with a systems mindset to intentionally carving out space for deep, authentic connection, Libby shares personal stories of resilience, love, and leadership. Together, they unpack what it really means to cultivate a “village” of support, why failing forward matters in raising confident humans, and how to protect the relationships that matter most in the midst of modern life's chaos.
This episode is a must-listen for parents, partners, leaders, and anyone committed to creating a life that’s rich in connection, not just achievement.
Key Highlights:
Why flourishing isn’t about one relationship—it’s about intentionally building a whole system of support
How giving kids the freedom to fail creates real, lasting confidence
The hidden cost of overfunctioning in relationships—and how to resist it
Practical strategies for protecting time and energy for the people who matter most
Why tracking “relationship time” like billable hours can transform your most important connections
About Our Guest:
Libby Baney is a partner at Fakery Drinker law firm in Washington, D.C., where her leadership has helped transform the firm's approach to mental health and collaborative work. Her innovative approach, including bringing in-house mental health practitioners to the firm, earned them an American Lawyer Award. Libby describes herself as mission-driven, like many in the D.C. area who "don't come here to get rich—you come here to do good things." As a mother, newlywed, and advocate for human flourishing, Libby brings warmth and authenticity to everything she does, embodying the connection between personal wellbeing and professional excellence.
About The HX Collective:
The HX Collective is a movement to elevate the human experience—at work, in relationships, and with ourselves. Through honest conversations and strategic insight, we explore how connection, context, and compassion can create a more flourishing world, starting right where we are.
