This week Kate Mangino and Rachel Childs speak with science journalist and author Melissa Hogenboom about the hidden power dynamics shaping modern relationships.

We often think of power as something that exists in politics or the workplace, but what if it’s quietly influencing the way we make everyday decisions at home?

Drawing on research from neuroscience, psychology and sociology, Melissa explains how power shows up in the smallest moments: who controls their free time, who carries the mental load, and whose career shapes the big life decisions.

We explore:

• Why couples often believe decisions are “mutual” — even when the work behind them isn’t

• How earning power subtly influences influence at home

• What happens to empathy, stress, and communication when power is uneven

• Why female breadwinners are rising — but equality still isn’t guaranteed

It’s a fascinating conversation about autonomy, identity, and what it really takes for couples to feel like a team. Equality in parenting isn’t just about dividing the chores, it’s about understanding power.

Find out more about Melissa Hogenboom, author of Breadwinners, and The Motherhood Complex.

Subscribe to Equal-ish on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to be the first to hear the coaching edit from our interview.

Find out more about your hosts Kate Mangino and Rachel Childs.
This episode is proudly supported by Relationscapes Podcast