Former Press Secretary Explained Career Change
Karoline Leavitt shared how working fewer hours allows for more time with her children.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Child Care
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Karoline Leavitt discussed her recent transition from White House press secretary to on-air contributor on social media. She noted that her previous role required working more than 60 hours per week.
Why it matters
Balancing high-demand careers with family life remains a common challenge for many working parents. Leavitt shared that prioritizing time with her children prompted her to leave a position with significant weekly time commitments.
Leavitt reported that her departure from her government role was driven by the unsustainable nature of a 60-plus hour work week. This professional shift reflects a decision to reallocate time toward her children.
The players
Karoline Leavitt
A former White House press secretary who is transitioning into a new role as an on-air media contributor.
Nicholas Riccio
The husband of Karoline Leavitt who met his spouse during a congressional campaign in 2022.
Fox News
A national news organization that will add Karoline Leavitt to its roster as an on-air contributor.
The details
Leavitt hosted an Instagram Ask Me Anything session to engage with her 3.1 million followers. During the session, she explained the personal motivations behind her career choices and her upcoming professional changes. She remains focused on balancing her public-facing roles with the demands of raising a family.
Timeline
2022: Leavitt met her husband, Nicholas Riccio.
2024: Leavitt and her husband had their first child.
2025: Leavitt and her husband married.
August 2026: Leavitt stepped down as White House press secretary.
November 1, 2026: Leavitt will join Fox News as an on-air contributor.
Health Landscape
This move highlights the ongoing tension between high-intensity professional expectations and the needs of working parents. It follows a national trend where individuals across various sectors prioritize family commitments over standard full-time career structures.
Managing high-stress careers requires assessing your personal limits and the potential impact of long hours on your mental well-being. If you find your work schedule is hindering your ability to care for your family, it may be worth discussing your work-life balance with a primary care provider.
The takeaway
The decision to leave an intense role in favor of family time underscores the importance of evaluating personal priorities in high-stress work environments. Tracking how your career demands influence your daily stress and health outcomes is a vital step in maintaining long-term wellness.
Further reading
Learn more about the challenges of balancing professional demands and family life in our Child Care section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by New York Post.
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