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Explore every episode of the podcast Joy At Work

Dive into the complete episode list for Joy At Work. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Shortening our self-sabotage spirals27 Nov 202400:10:46

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30mins. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

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When we want to do great work, we have to aim beyond our comfort zones.  That often sadly means knockbacks, negative feedback, or just facing the uncomfortable word. No.

How strong your mental fitness is could mean the difference between negative feedback knocking you out for days (weeks or months) and being able to see (and act upon) the opportunities that this feedback is presenting us with.

I’m chatting with Caroline Kay, who will share a technique she calls “The Three Gifts” to help you master your own mindset. 

She has also offered her Ambitious Lader’s Energy Impact Matrix as a tool to help you learn more about yourself and help you find the work that energizes and lights you up! 

Let’s dive in!

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign. Learn more here.

Get Caroline's free gift: The Ambitious Leader’s Energy Impact Matrix

How to Break the Cold Job Application Cycle: A Joy At Work Experiment24 Nov 202400:05:53

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30mins. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

--

If you're spending valuable hours scrolling job boards or hitting the apply button on cold LinkedIn applications, it's time to rethink your job-seeking approach. 

Why? 

Because 75% of senior positions are filled through personal connections, not public posts.  We could argue about that exact percentage, but the truth is clear, the majority of senior roles are secured before anyone ever thinks about posting a job advertisement.

So, if you find yourself spending a lot of time looking at job adverts,  what that suggests is that your personal network isn't strong enough to fill the remainder of your career with work that brings you joy.  

That might be a little bit harsh, but if this is the landscape, what can you do about it this week?   

[00:30] Rethinking Cold Job Applications

[01:39] The Joy At Work Experiment - Plant 10 Seeds

[01:57] Build Your Work Network

[03:10] Expanding Beyond Work Connections

[04:34] Nurturing Genuine Connections


Next Steps:


If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

Always wanted a book with Richard Hagen11 Jul 202400:10:30

Join Richard Hagen, MD of Mpowr Publishing, as he shares 30 years of wisdom to guide aspiring authors in writing their first book. In this episode, Richard explains the three main types of non-fiction books authors can write: books that tell personal stories, books that make sense of one's knowledge, and books designed to transform readers' lives. Hagen provides practical tips for each type, helping mid-career professionals decide which path to take to make their writing journey joyous and impactful. Whether you aim to share personal experiences, consolidate your expertise, or revolutionize your readers' lives, this episode offers invaluable insights and actionable advice to ensure your book resonates and leaves a lasting legacy.

[00:40] Evaluating Your Desire to Write

[02:37] Understanding the Types of Books

[04:49] Practical Tips for Writing Your Book

[06:50] Crafting a Book for Your Readers

[07:46] Final Thoughts and Encouragement


Speaker Links:

Connect with Richard on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahagen/


Mpowr Publishing 

https://mpowrpublishing.com/wp/immersive-publishing/


Next Steps:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed






LinkedIn for Real people with Louise Brogan11 Jul 202400:09:55

In this episode, I challenge the perception that LinkedIn is just a boring platform for job hunting. Instead, Lousie Brogan reveals how it can be a powerful tool for mid-career professionals to connect with like-minded individuals worldwide, share experiences, and gain valuable insights. Louise explains how to revamp your LinkedIn feed and profile. 

[01:30] Do you think LinkedIn is somewhere to go to apply for jobs? Do you find it a little.boring? Let me convince you otherwise.

[04:03] What are the missed opportunities on LinkedIn?

[07:42] What are some practical ideas on what you can do to get started being more interesting and interested on LinkedIn? 

Speaker Links:


Louise's LinkedIn Daily Activity Checklist - https://louisebrogan.com/download


Next Steps:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Do you want to start a podcast? Practical tips from Sarah Scott11 Jul 202400:10:27

In this episode, we explore how mid-career professionals can inject creativity into their lives by starting a podcast. With insights from Sarah Scott, we discuss the benefits of podcasting, common mistakes to avoid, and practical steps to get started. Sarah shares beginner-friendly resources and tools, emphasizing the ease and adaptability of podcasting as a joyful and creative outlet.

[01:10] What kind of individuals do you see starting a podcast?

[01:56] What are some of the most common mistakes that new podcasters make?

[03:14] What are some practical steps on how they can start their podcast?

[06:35] Once you are ready to launch a podcast and you need to think about some tech, what next?


Speaker Links:


To learn more about podcasting connect with Sarah on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sscott1022/


Podcast Resources:


Alitu Show Planner - https://planner.alitu.com/

Podcast Software (all-in-one podcast tool from recording to editing to hosting): Alitu - https://alitu.com/

Graphic Design Tool - Canva: https://www.canva.com/

Email Marketing Tools (with free plans to get started): 

Mailerlite - https://www.mailerlite.com/

MailChimp - https://mailchimp.com/ 

ConvertKit- https://convertkit.com/


Next Steps:


If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Do this one thing differently when presenting with Ges Ray11 Jul 202400:11:23

In this episode, I welcome Ges Ray, an inspiring public speaking trainer, who shares a practical technique to improve your work presentations, sales conversations, and pitches—deep breathing. Ges passionately walks us through the importance of breathing in alleviating stress, boosting confidence, and enhancing audience perception. Discover how to transform from chaos to calm with simple breathing exercises that can be practiced anywhere, even moments before you speak. Ges also touches on the broader implications of controlled breathing, including its impact on voice depth and resonance. Join us to learn a valuable skill to bring joy to your professional life.

01:01 The Dread of Public Speaking

02:35 Understanding the Importance of Breathing

05:35 Practical Deep Breathing Exercise

08:36 Applying Deep Breathing in Real Situations


Speaker Links:


Connect with Ges Ray on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gesray/


Ges Ray - Learn more about his speak performance training : 

https://speakperformance.online/


Links:


If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed


Your Money and Your Life with Dustin Serviss11 Jul 202400:11:57

In this episode, we talk to Dustin, a distinguished wealth manager, about helping successful mid-career professionals move beyond the 'save save' mentality to a more balanced approach to life and financial planning. 

Dustin emphasizes the importance of reassessing outdated financial mindsets and adopting a flexible approach to future planning. He discusses practical strategies like the spending accelerator and goal alignment while highlighting the significance of developing a diverse portfolio of memories. 


Tune in to learn about the keys to building confidence through financial clarity, managing risks, and enhancing overall life satisfaction.

[00:25] How do you respond to people who say "I'm worried I don't have enough to retire or a flexible life?

[01:34] Have your beliefs about money evolved as you have grown?

[03:40] Do you first need to decide what your future will look like?

[05:33] A method for evaluating your spending

[08:13] What difference do you see when they do this earlier in their career or life versus later? 

[09:08] What can we do that will start us on this amazing journey of redesigning our flexible life in the future? 


Speaker Links:


Website: https://www.servisswealth.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/servisswealth/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/serviss-wealth-management/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-picture-of-wealth/id1556305294


Links:


If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Unmask Your Potential: The Joy of Getting Visible with Vicki Knights11 Jul 202400:11:05

In this session, Vicki Knights, an engaging speaker and qualified positive psychology practitioner, discusses the importance of being visible as a mid-career professional. Vicki explains how hiding behind a company mask can limit your joy and potential at work. 

She presents four surprising ways that building your personal brand and getting visible can improve your well-being and career prospects. Vicki covers the benefits of forging genuine connections, boosting confidence through authenticity, creating exciting opportunities, and empowering yourself and others. 

Tune in to learn how showing up can lead to a more fulfilling professional life.

[01:06] The Importance of Visibility

[02:11] Four Surprising Benefits of Getting Visible

[02:17] Building Genuine Connections

[05:09] Boosting Confidence Through Authenticity

[07:48] Creating Exciting Opportunities

[08:37] Empowering Yourself and Others


Speaker Links:

Grab Vicki's free 12-page visibility guide at https://vickiknights.co.uk/

Podcast: Showing Up with Vicki Knights: https://vickiknights.co.uk/showingup


Links:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

How to tell if your partner is burning out with Lucia Knight10 Jul 202400:06:33

In this episode, I discuss the often unnoticed progression of burnout, which can creep into your career without warning. Drawing on eight years of experience helping design less stressful, more joyful work environments, I explain how loved ones often spot burnout symptoms before the individual does. I outline the 12 recognized stages of burnout, from the initial drive to prove oneself to the ultimate physical and mental shutdown. By understanding these stages, you can take early action to prevent burnout from severely impacting your life. This episode is particularly relevant for mid-career professionals who often fall into the pattern of endless busyness and neglect of personal well-being.

Speaker Links:

More on unrecognised stress that can lead to burnout 

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Is Your Joy at Work Battery Depleted with Dana Chapman10 Jul 202400:08:04

In this episode, I speak with Dana Chapman, a nutritional therapist, about practical ways to fuel our bodies and minds for success and joy at work. Dana shares insights on the importance of nutritious food, movement, and sleep, emphasizing the role of protein in maintaining energy and motivation. We discuss the signs of inadequate nutrition and practical steps to start making sustainable changes in our diet. Dana also shares her personal journey to professional joy and offers advice for mid-career professionals looking to enhance their well-being and performance through better nutrition.

Speaker Links:

Website: https://www.dc-nutrition.co.uk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-chapman-85b73316

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Should I Stay or Should I Go with Dominic Decker10 Jul 202400:09:50

In this episode, we tackle the anxiety of making big career decisions with insights from psychotherapist Dominic Decker. Dominic explores common struggles such as procrastination, perfectionism, and fear of failure, sharing strategies to tune into your body's intuition and make authentic choices. Perfect for mid-career professionals, Dominic's wisdom will help you transform unease into clarity, whether you're considering a new role, a promotion, or a career change. Dive in to learn how to replace indecisiveness with clear resolve and guide your life’s direction confidently.

Speaker Links:

Connect with Dominic on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominic-decker

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Sleep - your underrated Superpower with Dr. Kat Lederle10 Jul 202400:09:21

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of sleep disruption and chronic insomnia with the expertise of Dr. Kat Lederle, a leading sleep scientist. Dr. Kat explains the stark differences between occasional poor sleep and long-term insomnia, emphasizing that attempting to control sleep can exacerbate the problem. She shares impactful stories from her work and offers practical tips for mid-career professionals to create an enjoyable, restful sleep environment. Join us to uncover strategies to naturally improve sleep and enhance overall well-being.

Speaker Links:

Website: https://drkatsleep.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkatsleep/ or @drkatsleep

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed


Elevate Your LinkedIn Game20 Nov 202400:10:06

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-

If you're someone who wants to be a little bit more engaging on LinkedIn, but can't get beyond shyly liking a colleague's post about their recent promotion or sharing those dull as dishwater company updates.

If you can’t figure out what to write, who to write it for, how to write it, what to start with, or who's gonna care and it all feels way too complicated, then you'll want to tune in to this Joy at Work conversation with Mel Booth.  

In this conversation, Mel Booth, a digital marketing consultant and co-founder of the Marketing Lab, who is also a self-proclaimed LinkedIn enthusiast, gives practical ideas on how to be more human on LinkedIn while presenting yourself to your current and potential future employers in ways that don't appear robotic, boring, or just bleh.  

Let's dive in.


[00:00] Introduction to Engaging on LinkedIn

[00:53] Common LinkedIn Challenges for Mid-Career Professionals

[02:29] Finding Your Sweet Spot on LinkedIn

[03:45] Effective LinkedIn Sharing Strategies

[05:38] Actionable Tips for LinkedIn Engagement



Next Steps:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

Pain-free work for those who sit all day with Rune Abo10 Jul 202400:10:34

In this interview, we delve into the practice and techniques of Rune Abo, a renowned muscle therapist from Norway. Personally, I have found relief from tension headaches, jaw pain, and back aches through Rune's one-minute exercises. Rune explains the importance of muscle contraction and lymphatic drainage in alleviating persistent pain. And he provides advice on how to counteract the negative effects of prolonged sitting and screen time, emphasizing the need for movement and fluid flow regulation in the body.

Links:

In this talk, Rune mentioned a video that helps relieve sinus pressure. You can watch that video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OXpBzIcImKQ

Speaker Links: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runeabo/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/runeabo/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PainfreeU

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rune%2D%C3%A5b%C3%B8%2D4b8a8032/


Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

How to earn highly forever with Lucia Knight09 Jul 202400:06:43

In this episode, we explore the cornerstone activities that can lead to a deeply satisfying and high-earning career, whether you're running a business, working a corporate job, juggling multiple roles, or have a flexible career. Discovering these unique activities may require effort, but they promise to serve you well financially and personally throughout your working life. We emphasize the importance of investing time, energy, and focus early in your career to reap long-term benefits and reaffirm that it's never too late to uncover your uniqueness.

Speaker Links:

Starter worksheet to discover your uniqueness: https://midlifeunstuck.activehosted.com/f/17

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Executive Search Insights with John OConnor09 Jul 202400:10:01

In this episode, I talk with John O'Connor, a seasoned executive recruiter, who shares valuable behind-the-scenes insights into the world of executive search firms. 

We discuss the importance of building proactive relationships with recruiters, even when you're not actively seeking a new role. John offers practical tips on how to effectively engage with executive search firms and shares some surprising statistics about the volume of applications for high-level roles. This episode is especially beneficial for mid-career professionals looking to strategically manage their career advancement.

Speaker Links:

Website: https://www.pageexecutive.com/

Follow on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnoconnorfinance/

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Diary of a Midlife Job-Hunter with Dom Salomoni09 Jul 202400:09:58

In this episode, I discuss the challenging and often daunting experience of midlife job hunting with Dom Salomoni, who shares his insights from transitioning to a new role after 25 years in the same industry. Together, we explore the emotional toll of job searching with family and financial obligations, and Dom reveals his strategies for self-investment, mindfulness, and setting a clear North Star to stay focused and motivated. Tune in for practical advice on navigating the midlife career search and learn how to create a balanced approach to achieve your career goals.

[01:00] How did it feel to look for a job for the first time in 25 years?

[01:41] What were some of the things that you did that helped you deal with it and ultimately helped you find the next role?

[04:52] How did Dom keep going when things got tough?

[05:39] What one (or two) piece of advice would you give to someone who is about to enter a job search, who is in a job search, or who just knows that sometime in the future, they're going to hit a midlife job search?


Speaker Links

Connect with Dom on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dom-salomoni-1544b16/


Next Steps:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Executive Search Insights with Robert Atkinson09 Jul 202400:05:52

In this episode, I sit down with Robert Atkinson, a partner at Watermark Executive Search, to discuss career transitions for senior professionals who have dedicated a significant part of their careers to one field. Robert provides practical advice on planning a career shift, and exploring options such as board roles, executive positions in commerce, purpose-driven opportunities, and portfolio careers. He emphasizes the importance of early planning, understanding financial requirements, seeking outside counsel, and leveraging one's network. Tune in for valuable insights on navigating the complexities of a senior-level career transition.

Speaker Links:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-atkinson-848b653

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Unemployable while having a job for life with Steve Borer09 Jul 202400:07:31

In this episode, I speak with Steve Borer, partner of DMC Recruitment Group in Canada, about his journey from a successful corporate career to becoming a reluctant entrepreneur. Steve shares valuable insights from his four years of running a business, including the challenges of leaving corporate life, the unexpected joys of entrepreneurship, and the hard work required to achieve a work-life balance. If you're a mid-career professional dreaming of more control over your life, this conversation will provide a grounded perspective on what it takes to turn job into your business.

Speaker Links:

Website: https://dmcrecruitment.com/

Connect with Steve on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-borer-2656351

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

The use of personality profiling in executive searches and establishing effective relationships with Nicola Wensley and Sophie Edwards09 Jul 202400:12:12

In this episode, I sit down with Nicola Wensley, MD of Drayton, and Sophie Edwards, partner in research and assessment at Drayton, to demystify the executive search process. Nicola and Sophie share the role of personality profiling assessments in executive search processes. And we also discuss practical tips for establishing fruitful relationships with top search firms.

Speaker Links:

Website: https://www.draytonpartners.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drayton-partners/

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Formula for a life-time of joy at work with Summit Host Lucia Knight08 Jul 202400:05:58

Hi, I'm Lucia Knight, your Joy at Work Summit host. Join me as I share my journey from a 19-year career filled with slow-growing dissatisfaction to discovering a formula for lifelong joy at work. After a pivotal realization at 43, I pursued a master's in psychology and interviewed 100 professionals who made successful career shifts after 40. Through their stories, I developed a three-part formula: use your unique superpowers daily, solve problems that matter to you, and earn enough to live the life you want. This episode offers insights and a Venn diagram framework to help mid-career professionals design a deeply satisfying work life. For those interested, I also introduce my Life Satisfaction Assessment, a 30-minute program to evaluate and enhance your joy in 10 areas of your life.

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed

Becoming an Entrepreneur for the first time in mid-career with Ingun Bol08 Jul 202400:09:29

I sit down with Ingun Bol to explore the journey of starting a business as an experienced professional. We delve into the unique advantages midlife entrepreneurs bring to the table, such as their extensive network and market knowledge. Ingun sheds light on the common pitfalls of overthinking and not trusting your gut instincts. We also discuss overcoming fears, the importance of community and mentors, and actionable steps for those feeling the pull to start their entrepreneurial journey. Whether driven by necessity or a desire for purpose, this conversation is packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to reinvent themselves and create a meaningful business.

Speaker Links:

Connect with Ingun on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingunbol/

Wise Move Society: https://wizemovesociety.com/

Dig a little deeper:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed



Is there enough 'GROSS' in your work life with Paul Reid08 Jul 202400:09:29

In this episode, I chat with Paul Reid, CEO of Trickle, about two powerful business improvement concepts: GROSS (Get Rid Of Stupid Stuff) from Singapore and the Broken Windows theory. Paul shares how he discovered these ideas, their practical applications, and the significant impact they can have on organizational efficiency and employee morale. Listen in to learn how these concepts can create a more joyful and productive work environment, especially for mid-career professionals seeking continuous improvement. 

Speaker Links:

Check out Trickle: https://trickle.works/trickle-explainer-video

Employee Engagement Health Check: https://trickle.works/employee-engagement-healthcheck/

Learn More:


If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed



Get Comfortable with No: A Joy At Work Experiment17 Nov 202400:07:10

Did you know that the average toddler, according to some research, hears the word no up to 400 times a day?

Yet it's a word that strikes fear in the heart of many a grown-up professional in their 40s, 50s or 60s.  

If we treat rejection and the word no as a big, bad, fearful thing, then we're frankly less likely to ask for the things that we would love in order to thrive at work. We're even less likely to ask for the things that we need to survive at work

So if hearing the word, no, fills you with fear or freezes you into doing what you've always done.  Then this week’s Joy At Work Experiment is designed for you.

[00:35] Why We Need To Be Desensitised to the Word 'No'

[02:35] Joy At Work Experiment

[04:05] Fun Rejection Challenges

[06:10] Embracing 'No' for Joy at Work


Get all of the details in our show notes.


Next Steps:


If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

Lessons from 54 'weird' workers with Sam Balter08 Jul 202400:09:05

In this episode, I chat with Sam Bolter, host of the Weird Work podcast, known for its engaging conversations with individuals who have unconventional careers. From professional mermaids to international pizza consultants, Sam shares insights into the joy and challenges of these unique jobs. We talk about his four categories of 'weird work' and discuss the significance of passion and hard work in finding job satisfaction. Listen in for inspiring stories and advice on how to dream bigger and find more joy in your professional life.

Speaker Links:

Weird Work Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weird-work/id1281393532

Learn More:


If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed


4 day work week research results with Joe OConnor08 Jul 202400:08:48

In this episode, Joe O'Connor, CEO and co-founder of Work Time Reduction, discusses the benefits of a four-day work week. He explains how reduced work hours can increase employee happiness, enhance talent retention, and surprisingly boost productivity. Joe addresses common misconceptions, the importance of careful implementation, and provides strategies for individuals to advocate for a shorter work week within their organizations. This session is especially beneficial for mid-career professionals looking to balance work and life more effectively.

Speaker Links:

Website: Work Time Reduction - https://worktimereduction.com/

Follow Joe on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeoconnor990

Learn More:


If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed


Play more for business, life and success with Em Stroud08 Jul 202400:11:14

In this engaging session, Em Stroud, the Comic Coach, shares her unique perspective on integrating play into our business lives for greater success and joy.

Em advocates for the inclusion of playful activities in both personal and professional settings, emphasizing that play can alleviate stress and enhance overall well-being. Highlighting her work with top global businesses and her movement 'Laugh Think Play,' Em discusses practical steps to incorporate play into daily routines and outlines twelve distinct play personalities. She passionately argues that by giving ourselves permission to play, we can achieve a more balanced, joyful, and successful life. This talk offers valuable insights for mid-career professionals looking to infuse more joy into their work and lives.

Speaker Links:

Website: https://emstroud.com/

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/em-stroud


Learn More:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed



Can you work less and still progress with Claire Campbell08 Jul 202400:07:53

In this episode, I speak with Claire Campbell, CEO of TimeWise, about the increasing popularity and benefits of flexible working patterns. We discuss the resurgence in interest in part-time work, driven by the pandemic's impact on our values and priorities, and the barriers and stigmas that still exist. 

Claire provides valuable insights and practical tips for professionals aiming to progress their careers while working less than full-time, including ruthless prioritization, setting boundaries, maintaining career progression focus, and finding sponsors. 

We explore how organizations can support and benefit from offering flexible work options and the importance of being willing to experiment and adapt to new working patterns.

Speaker Links:

Part-time Works Podcast Series: https://timewise.co.uk/podcast/

Website: https://timewise.co.uk/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-campbell-fcipd-a627461/

Learn More:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed



Welcome to the Joy At Work Summit 202408 Jul 202400:09:25

Welcome to the Joy at Work Summit 2024 hosted by Lucia Knight, founder of Midlife Unstuck, a career design consultancy for mid-career professionals. Scheduled for July 8th-11th, this free online audio summit features 23 speakers across four focus areas essential for enhancing joy at work: health, finding the right role, work modes, and diverse influences. With expert advice ranging from better sleep practices and nutritional tips to building relationships with executive search firms and creating shorter work weeks, the summit aims to help attendees design tiny experiments to incrementally boost their work joy by 10%. Register and subscribe to this transformative event to take actionable steps towards more joyful work experiences.

Links:

Blog post: How to get the most from the Jooy at Work Summit

Learn More:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed



Welcome to the Joy At Work Summit25 Jun 202400:00:38

Welcome to the Joy at Work Summit 2024. We've got amazing speakers. Experts who have condensed their years of experience in either stress reduction or joy injection into 10-minute value-packed talks.

No snoozy backstories, no fluff, no woo woo. Because I know you're busy juggling work and life. And I know you want and deserve more joy at work. See you soon.


Be sure to register so you don't miss a single episode: https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/joy-at-work-summit-1

Are you a financial well-being junky?13 Nov 202400:09:55

Do you believe that there is a connection between your level of joy and money? 

Many people do, which is why it's so important to take a deeper look at the connection between the two.

Today I’m talking with Chris Budd, author of 'The Financial Wellbeing Book' and co-host of the Financial Wellbeing Podcast to discover how our financial habits influence long-term happiness, the set point theory of well-being, and practical advice on becoming more aware spenders. Chris also sheds light on the concept of 'financial well-being junkies' and offers strategies for achieving sustained happiness through meaningful activities and quality social relationships.


Let’s dive in! 


[01:12] How can we become “better” spenders?

[01:42] Understanding Set Point Theory

[03:00] Financial Wellbeing Junkies

[05:51] Long-Term Wellbeing Strategies

[06:57] The Importance of Social Relationships

[08:33] Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Spending

[09:29] Conclusion and Additional Resources


Next Steps:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

Find Your Kryptonite: A Joy At Work Experiment10 Nov 202400:04:02

Here's a Joy At Work experiment.

Can you identify the people, the processes, the situations, and the environments that sap your energy, block your creativity, and make you wonder, Is this it?  I call these mood vampires your kryptonite. 

By getting clear on your personal kryptonite, you get clear on what needs to change, so you get closer to operating at your best more often, which is a huge contributor to joy at work. 

The Joy At Work Experiment


Take a few minutes and write down just two things in your work life that drive you around the bend, that suck your soul dry, or evaporate your energy like there's no tomorrow. (If you need some examples, listen to the whole episode!)


Look at what you've written down,  then crack open your diary.  Is there a way you can banish these soul-sucking tasks from your week entirely? 


Or, if full-on deletion feels impossible, could you try experimenting to shave off the time you spend knee-deep in your kryptonite?  How about just ten minutes less?  What kind of a difference might that make to the amount of joy you have at work?  



[00:00] Introduction to Joy at Work Experiment

[00:31] Identifying Your Kryptonite

[01:24] Examples of Workplace Kryptonite

[02:32] Strategies to Combat Kryptonite

[03:30] Joy at Work Experiment Challenge

[03:36] Additional Resources for Life Satisfaction



Next Steps:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

The Relationship Between Boundaries and Pissedoffness06 Nov 202400:09:11

Are you constantly exhausted, frustrated, or just generally pissed off with people at work?

Are you job hopping hoping that each change will give you a better workload or culture?

Are you feeling a lot of resentment in your life?

Then you might be suffering from a lack of boundaries.


Louisa Clarke is a high-stakes communication consultant who talks with us about why it is so hard for us to set boundaries, how to recognize the signs that we aren’t setting boundaries soon enough, and a tip on how we can start to improve the boundaries we set. 


Let’s Dive In:

[00:47] The Reason We Have Trouble Setting Boundaries

[01:22] Types of Boundaries: No and Need

[03:00] The Consequences of Unclear Boundaries

[05:30] Recognizing and Addressing Resentment

[07:06] Practical Steps to Set Boundaries


Next Steps:


If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

Welcome to Season 2 of Joy At Work01 Nov 202400:00:45

Too busy, bored, stressed, and unfulfilled at work and don't want another decade of the same. You're in the right place. I'm Lucia Knight, and in my daily work, I train professionals in their 40s, 50s, and 60s to design their work to be much more joyful. And as a result, they become not just more fulfilled, but also more energized and wealthier.

In this podcast, I'm going to show you high in 10 minute episodes. No fluff. No snoozy backstories and no woo woo. Instead, tangible, practical insights into your career happiness that can turn into joy at work today.

25 Ideas to Get More Joy At Work with Lucia Knight11 Jul 202400:10:50

We've reached the end of the Joy at Work Summit. Over the course of this event, you've had access to 25 10-minute talks, each crafted to give you an insight, an understanding, an idea, or an action point to boost your joy at work by 10%. 

Throughout this summit,  I've held a tiny dream for you that you'd take one idea from one of these sessions and experiment with it to see if it's possible to increase your personal joy at work by 10 percent tomorrow. 


To make this super easy for you, I'm going to share with you one idea from each of the speakers. That's 25 tiny, potentially joy-inducing experiments. Just pick one.


Try it. See what difference it makes. What have you got to lose?  Big dreams,  tiny actions. That's how we bring more joy at work. Who knows where this might lead? Become your own joy at work designer. 


Next Steps:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed



Dressing for Joy at Work with Dara Ford11 Jul 202400:06:56

In this episode, we explore how COVID-19 has transformed work attire, leading to a more casual approach while emphasizing the importance of great separates. Discover insights into how dressing well impacts confidence and performance at work. Listen as our expert guest shares personal stories of creating bespoke clothing that empowers clients, emphasizing the value of finding the perfect fit over the perfect size. We also discuss practical tips on how to enhance off-the-rack items for a better fit and greater impression. Tune in to learn how investing in your wardrobe can elevate both your appearance and self-assurance, crucial for career growth and presence in professional settings.

[00:00] Why I invited Dara to join the summit

[00:32] Investing in Key Pieces for a Versatile Wardrobe

[00:57] The Impact of Dressing on Confidence

[01:36] Creating Signature Looks for Professional Environments

[01:56] Memorable Client Stories and Their Transformations

[03:03] Final Thoughts on Dressing for Success

[04:28] Personal Insights: Joy at Work


Speaker Links:

Website: https://daraford.com/

Follow on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dara-stringham-3b37318b/


Next Steps:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.


https://www.midlifeunstuck.com/derailed


Recognizing Imposter Syndrome with Clare Josa11 Dec 202400:09:59

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-

If you think imposter syndrome is only relevant to a very small part of the population, think again. 

In our conversation, Clare Josa shares the difference between the very natural self doubt that we feel when we step out of our comfort zone and the debilitating joyless imposter syndrome. She shows us how to recognize it in ourselves and our colleagues and offers us a tiny practical first step on the journey towards feeling good enough at our core.

[00:00] Introduction to Imposter Syndrome

[00:07] Meet Clare Josa: Expert on Imposter Syndrome

[01:05] Understanding Self-Doubt vs. Imposter Syndrome

[02:05] The Impact of Imposter Syndrome in the Workplace

[04:15] Recognizing Imposter Syndrome in Yourself and Others

[06:22] The Link Between Imposter Syndrome and Burnout

[08:17] Steps to Overcome Imposter Syndrome

Next Steps:

If you enjoyed this, you might also enjoy my Life Satisfaction Assessment. It's a 30-minute program where I guide you through a deep dive into 10 areas of your life to assess what's bringing you joy and what's bringing you down. I call it Derailed and it's a fabulous place to begin a joy-at-work redesign.

Showing Your Appreciation - A Joy At Work Experiment09 Dec 202400:08:22

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-

Appreciation is one of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to improve workplace dynamics, as far as joy is concerned.  When done genuinely and often, It's a win-win investment of a few seconds. 

If appreciation is so clearly a win-win, why don't we do it more?  

Appreciation doesn't need to be a grand, splashy, time-consuming gesture. And in todays Joy At Work experiment, I’m going to show you two easy ways that you can start showing appreciation for those around you today.

[00:30] The Power of Appreciation

[00:58] Personal Story: The Smile That Changed Everything

[02:08] Appreciation in the Workplace

[04:27] A Joy At Work Experiment: Show Some Appreciation

[06:04] A Joy At Work Experiment: Smile More

[07:09] The Impact of Genuine Appreciation


Get all of the details for this experiment on our website

Master Communicating Your Boundaries with Louisa Clarke04 Dec 202400:10:56

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30mins. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

--

We have been fed a lie about boundary setting, which is that there are only two ways to communicate them. 

Either being assertive and bolshie and all up in someone's grill and laying down the law and demanding what we need. Or backing down and staying well-liked, but never quite actually saying what we need. 

This is such a load of rubbish. We see it play out culturally a lot, but it's just not true. There is a beautiful middle ground. Louisa Clarke shares with us her three-step formula for setting boundaries and communicating them in a way that is forward-moving, respectful, and productive. 

Let’s dive in. 

[00:00] The Power of Asking for What You Need

[00:37] The Importance of Having Clear Boundaries

[01:57] The Three-Step Formula For Setting Boundaries

[02:01] Step 1: Firm Up Your Decision

[03:03] Step 2: Acknowledge, Validate, Permit (AVP)

[04:56] Step 3: Use I Perspective Language

[08:31] Are we getting better at boundary setting?

Breaking Away from Busy Bragging - A Joy At Work Experiment01 Dec 202400:07:31

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30mins. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

--

Let's be honest, most of us, myself included, have no problem telling anyone with a pair of ears just how busy we are, right?  

In fact, I've never met a midlife professional who isn't swamped with work. Earlier this year, I conducted a survey on joy at work, asking 400 professionals in their 40s, 50s and 60s, what their biggest joy at work challenge was.  And across the board, the top answer was the same. Time pressure and an overwhelming workload.

So yes,  we're all busy.  

But lately, I've noticed something else creeping into the conversation.  I'm going to call this busy bragging. And it's at an all-time high.  

Today, I want to break down why we do this, what's really going on from a psychological perspective, and share a little experiment that you can try this week to dial up your joy at work (and dial down the busy bragging).


[00:30] The Reality of Being Busy

[01:28] Understanding Busy Bragging

[02:05] Psychological Insights into Busy Bragging

[02:37] Four Reasons We Busy Brag

[05:48] Experiment: Shifting from Busy to Joyful

4 Steps to Wipe-Out Irritation- A Joy At Work Experiment29 Dec 202400:07:35

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-

 This week's joy at work experiment is a simple yet transformational two-minute mental shift. It takes just the tiniest bit of imagination and I'll guide you through it.  

In the next few minutes, we're going to delete one specific work irritation, annoyance, or little piece of stress from your brain.

Not forever, of course, that will be silly, but just for a tiny minute. 

Let's see what happens when that weight lifts, even briefly. 


[00:30] This Week's Experiment: A Mental Shift on One Irritation

[01:08] Step 1: Choose Your Irritation - Be Specific

[02:18] Step 2: Imagine Waking Up Irritation-Free

[04:13] Step 3: Walk Through Your Day

[06:15] Step 4: Reflect on the Ripple Effect

[07:09] Conclusion and Further Resources


Get all of the details in our show notes.

Redefining Productivity with Louise Miller25 Dec 202400:12:37

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-

We're drowning in a sea of doing. Waging unwinnable battles to pack more and more work into less and less time. At what cost? For what purpose? It's a direct path to overwhelm and burnout.

 In our conversation today, Louise Miller offers a radically different, deeply human definition of productivity than I haven’t seen anywhere in the world.  We discussed shifting how you think about productivity and how you can be productive in a way that reduces stress, allows us to focus on what truly matters, and lets us do our best work calmly. 

If you are someone who loves achieving great things but feels like you sometimes sacrifice too much along the way, this episode is tailor-made for you. 


[00:26] Meet Louise Miller: A New Perspective on Productivity

[01:28] Redefining Productivity: Doing What Matters

[05:46] The Treehouse Analogy

[08:42] The Neuroscience Behind Productivity

[10:03] Practical Steps to Boost Productivity

[12:11] Conclusion: Embrace a New Way of Working


Get more details in the show notes on our website.

Never Ask “How’s Work?” Again- A Joy At Work Experiment22 Dec 202400:06:29

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-

At some point in time, I can almost guarantee you that someone will ask you this small talk question - “How’s work?”

 This is one of my least favorite small-talk conversation openers. I just don't understand why people ask it.  Maybe it's out of genuine curiosity, or perhaps an attempt to show that they care. 

But let's be honest, “How's work?”, its a lazy question.  You don't need to remember the details of someone's job, their role, their company, or even actually care about the answer.  And most people know this, which is why they usually respond with something short and unremarkable before steering the conversation elsewhere.

The result? Missed opportunities for real human connection.  If you truly care about the person you're talking to or want to create a meaningful, memorable moment, it's time to retire this question and instead, try something that sparks genuine interest and reflection.


Instead, why not ask: “ What was the very best part of your career that you used to really enjoy doing?”


Learn more about this Joy At Work Experiment on our website

How to do better on Linkedin with Jo Watson18 Dec 202400:10:31

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-

We are delving into the common mistakes mid-career professionals make on LinkedIn profiles and how you can avoid them. 

Jo Watson, a talented copywriter, shares her expertise in crafting authentic, engaging profiles that make great first impressions. We discuss the dangers of trying too hard and the importance of genuine interaction over superficial efforts. Jo also provides practical questions to ensure your profile stands out for the right reasons.

[00:10] Meet Jo Watson: The Copywriting Expert

[00:58] Common LinkedIn Profile Mistakes

[01:31] The Problem with Trying Too Hard on Linkedin

[03:39] The Importance of Authenticity on Linkedin

[07:02] Practical Tips for LinkedIn Success

I’ve Always Wanted To… - A Joy At Work Experiment15 Dec 202400:06:35

Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-

Sometimes work feels like a never-ending loop of things we just have to do, doesn't it?  

Endless meetings, looming deadlines for tasks we've procrastinated on until they become have-tos. Work events that we'd swap in a millisecond for an evening snuggled up with one of our favourite box sets. 

But today, let's hit pause on the have-tos and shift our focus to something new. 

Over the last eight years of helping clients design more joy into their work, I've noticed something magical. It's subtle,  easy to miss if you're not paying attention. It often slips out as an afterthought, almost shyly.  And yet every time I catch it, I know I've stumbled upon something extraordinary.  It begins with these four simple words. 

“I've always wanted to…”


When someone says this, it's like a window into their soul opens. It offers a glimpse of their dreams, unfulfilled desires, and untapped joy. But here's the thing. We often push these dreams aside. We label them, Someday goals, too frivolous for today's practical demands, and we bury them under the avalanche of our to-do lists. 


And in doing so, we quietly quash a spark of our potential joy.  


This week, let's change that.

Making Time for Deep Work- A Joy At Work Experiment19 Jan 202500:07:11

   Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

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I read the book Deep Work by Cal Newport some years ago and it hit me like a brick. It connected a few dots of thoughts that had been floating around my mind for years and it changed the way I structured my work week forever.  It felt like I'd found a magic wand that had been missing in my work life forever. 

Deep Work is the antidote to the kind of shallow, time frittering, needle stuck in place work that many professionals drown in daily.  Deep work is focused, distraction free, and high impact. It's the kind of work that shifts the needle on your biggest priorities and unlocks creative, innovative problem-solving. 


So, if you're someone who's ever glanced at a clock or at your watch at 5pm and thought Wait, what the heck did I actually do today? This Joy at Work experiment is for you. 


[00:00] Making Time for Deep Work - A Joy At Work Experiment

[00:29] The Concept of Deep Work by Cal Newport

[01:50] The Three Enemies of Deep Work

[02:51] Implementing Deep Work - A Joy At Work Experiment

[04:32 ]Personal Success and Encouragement to Try Deep Work



How Menopause Impacts Women at Work with Sinead Sharkey-Steenson15 Jan 202500:10:46

   Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-

When I was growing up in Northern Ireland, women would whisper the phrase, “the change”, when talking about perimenopause and menopause. 

Thank goodness the conversation has evolved since then.  Yet, until very recently, no one was talking about how it impacts our joy at work.


Today we delve into the impact of perimenopause and menopause on women in the workplace with leadership expert Sinead Sharkey-Steenson. We discuss the physical, emotional, and mental challenges women face and how these can manifest in professional settings. 


Sinead shares practical advice on recognizing symptoms, the importance of medical consultation, and stress management techniques. She also highlights organizational strategies to support female employees through awareness sessions, flexible working conditions, and open conversations. She gives actionable steps for individuals to reduce workplace stress, such as setting boundaries, recharging energy, and practicing focused breathing.


[00:00] Introduction: Breaking the Silence on Menopause

[00:26] Meet Sinead Sharkey-Steenson

[00:58] Understanding How Menopause Impacts Women in the Workplace

[01:53] Emotional and Mental Challenges

[03:49] Physical Symptoms and Stigma

[04:49] Organizational Support and Awareness of Menopause

[08:00] Practical Tips for Individuals

[09:05] The Three B's: Boundaries, Battery, and Breath

5 Steps to Create Your Ideal Tuesday - A Joy At Work Experiment12 Jan 202500:05:32

   Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-


In the hustle and bustle of professional life in our 40s, 50s and 60s, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters and many of us find ourselves questioning, What do I really want out of life? 

One powerful way to refocus is to create a vision of your dream normal day.  Not a fantasy weekend day filled with yachts and champagne, but your best possible regular Tuesday. 


A Tuesday where your priorities align with the very small actions you take. Where making sure your needs are fulfilled. And that enough satisfaction is baked into your everyday routine.  


 By envisioning your ideal normal Tuesday, from what time you wake up to your evening wind down, you'll gain clarity about what truly matters to you.

Understanding the Work of Meetings with Dr. Carrie Goucher08 Jan 202500:10:39

  Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

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If you’re over 40 you have probably been in about 10,000 meetings by now - and according to Malcolm Gladwell - you should be an expert in them by now! But sadly we are not. 

According to Dr. Carrie Goucher, studies have shown that meetings have not improved in the last 50 years, despite everyone being aware of basic techniques of how to run an effective meeting.


In this episode, we are talking about the root of meetings and how we can be an effective leader and participant in meetings that will make tangible progress, strengthen relationships, and achieve important strategic milestones. 


[00:00] Introduction: The Role of Meetings in Organizations

[01:11] The Root of Meeting Frustrations

[02:11] Understanding Tribal Behavior in Meetings

[03:26] Practical Tips for Leading Effective Meetings

[06:05] Participant Strategies for Productive Meetings

[08:11] Success Stories and Results

[10:13] Additional Resources


Harnessing the Power of Envy- A Joy At Work Experiment05 Jan 202500:07:04

  Assess how feeling career stuck is impacting you across ten areas of life - in 30 minutes. Then, decide what you want to do about it.

-


 Envy can be a powerful tool for identifying what’s missing in our professional lives. Envy serves as a vital message from our body, highlights gaps we can bridge, and reveals unchangeable aspects we need to adapt to. 


This week’s Joy At Work experiment encourages you to reflect on your own work-related envy and take small actionable steps to address it, using envy as a motivator for positive change.


[00:30] Understanding Envy: A Powerful Signal

[00:53] Pete's Story: Transforming Envy into Action

[02:34] The Three Purposes of Envy

[05:24] Beware the Dark Side of Envy

[05:53] Weekly Experiment: Harnessing Envy for Growth

[06:38] Conclusion: Tools for Greater Joy at Work



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