MBP: You’re serving as President of the Junior League of Mobile while raising two young children — what does leadership look like in this season of motherhood?
Johanna: Leadership in this season of motherhood looks less like perfection and more like showing up with heart, determination, and probably a little coffee. It’s about doing your best, letting the good outweigh the perfect, and getting things done, whether that’s serving the JLM or managing the beautiful chaos at home.
I love that my children get to see me invest in our community and be part of something bigger than ourselves, while also knowing that school events, family dinners, and the little everyday moments matter just as much. Right now, leadership is about making an impact, embracing the fun and fullness of this season.
MBP: As a Speech-Language Pathologist who specializes in children, how has this shaped the way you parent?
Johanna: I spend a lot of time having conversations with my children, especially while we’re playing, and I love it. I also make a point to read aloud regularly and create space for them to explore, ask questions, and simply be themselves. Our home is full of hands-on activities, storytelling, and open-ended questions that spark curiosity and conversation.
MBP: Childhood literacy is one of your passions. What are some simple, practical ways moms can support speech and language development at home?
Johanna: Helping your child build speech and language skills doesn’t have to be complicated. For babies, simply talking to them, singing, and reading picture books makes a big difference. With toddlers, asking questions, encouraging them to describe what they see, and expanding on what they say can really help. Preschoolers and early elementary children benefit from storytelling, imaginative play, and longer back-and-forth conversations.
No matter the age, little things matter. Keeping the TV off during play, giving kids a moment to figure things out on their own, and chatting during bath time, car rides, or grocery trips all add up. Those everyday conversations are how language truly grows, and they make learning feel natural and fun.
MBP: You’re deeply involved at your children’s school as a room mom and volunteer. Why is that presence important to you?
Johanna: Being present at my children’s school as a room mom and volunteer is very important to me. I want my kids to see me actively involved in their school life and know that they come first. It also gives me the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with their teachers and classmates. I want to soak up every moment.
MBP: With so many responsibilities — leadership, volunteering, motherhood, marriage — how do you stay organized and keep your home running smoothly?
Johanna: Sunday afternoons are my time to map out the week ahead. I try to keep things simple during the busy stretches of the week. Calendars are helpful, but I tend to focus more on a daily list so I can stay on track one day at a time. Looking at everything all at once can feel overwhelming, so I celebrate the small victories. Those little wins keep everything moving and make the week feel manageable.
MBP: How do you instill leadership qualities in your own children?
Johanna: We have a daily checklist and responsibilities that get checked off each day, and our family motto is “make it happen.” No matter how challenging things get, we always try to put our best foot forward. We also talk a lot about being respectful, using good manners, and showing kindness to others. I want my kids to understand that leadership isn’t about being in charge. It’s about setting a good example, helping others, and doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
MBP: When you step back and look at your full, beautiful life — wife, mom, leader, professional — what legacy do you hope your children see you building?
Johanna: I hope my children see a mom who loved deeply, served with heart, and showed up consistently. I want them to remember that work was important, but so was sharing laughter and savoring the little joys of everyday life. If they grow up knowing they can lead with both strength and kindness, that will feel like a true success.
Rapid Fire
Morning person or night owl? Night Owl
Car line MVP or always running late? Always running late
Messy bun or styled updo? Messy Bun
Paper planner or digital calendar? Paper Planner
Amazon Prime or Target? Target
Johanna Thompson and her husband, Rick, have been married for 14 years. Together they have two children, an eight-year-old daughter and five-year-old son. She is a stay-at-home mom but manages a full plate volunteering as President for the Junior League of Mobile. Johanna has a Master’s degree in Speech Language Pathology from The University of Southern Mississippi and is passionate about child literacy. Her hope is to empower the next generation of leaders through serving her community.
