Explore every episode of the podcast Pause Purpose Play
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Friday & ADHD - How to Avoid Impulsive Spending | 27 Nov 2025 | 00:15:40 | |
Black Friday is basically engineered to hijack an ADHD brain. Countdown timers, flashing banners, urgency emails — it’s the perfect storm for impulsive buying and dopamine-driven decisions. In this short solo episode, Clinical Psychologist and ADHD specialist Michaela Thomas shares three quick, compassionate strategies to help you navigate Black Friday with intention, self-trust, and calm, rather than getting pulled into impulsive spending. You’ll learn how to pause before you buy, check your emotional state, and create a tiny, intentional “YES list” that keeps you grounded instead of overwhelmed. Whether you’ve overspent before or simply want to approach the season with more steadiness, this episode offers practical tools you can use today — without shame, restriction, or perfectionism. In this episode, you’ll hear:
If you struggle with impulsivity, emotional regulation or burnout… You’re not alone — and you’re not broken. These tendencies are part of your wiring, not a personal flaw. You might need support in learning to slow down for long enough to notice how you feel so you can regulate your emotions and nervous system. Connect with Michaela:
Join the newsletter for tools on slowing down with compassion on www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/newsletter | |||
| Burnout, business and ADHD, with Mother Cuppa Tea Candice Mason | 20 Nov 2025 | 01:09:46 | |
What happens when midlife hormones, ADHD traits, and the demands of running a business all collide? For many women, it’s the beginning of a powerful - and often messy - transformation and evolution. In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, Clinical Psychologist Michaela Thomas speaks with Candice Mason, founder of Mother Cuppa Tea, about the realities of female entrepreneurship, hormone upheaval, and navigating neurodivergence in midlife. Candice shares her candid journey through endometriosis, peri-menopause symptoms, and building a product-based business from the ground up. Together, Michaela and Candice explore the pressures of social media visibility, the emotional load behind brand growth, and the overlap between ADHD traits and entrepreneurial resilience. You’ll hear:
This is an honest, warm conversation about ambition, identity, and wellbeing - and how to build a business without burning yourself out. 💛 Connect with Candice: Website: www.mothercuppatea.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/mother_cuppatea ✨ Connect with Michaela: Website: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection 📘 Download Michaela’s free guide: 👉 Calm the Overwhelm – your grounding companion for busy, neurodivergent minds www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/calm | |||
| Unmasking and showing the broken pieces | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:09:45 | |
What if the very parts of you you’ve been trying to hide are the ones that make you most human - and most approachable? In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, I explore the beauty of embracing imperfections and chaos, no longer hiding your true self, inspired by the K-Pop Demon Hunters movie and its powerful soundtrack. We live in a world that pressures us to appear perfect - polished, put together, and always “on.” But the truth is, it’s in the cracks and the broken pieces that real connection and authenticity live. I’ll share why unmasking matters, how music and movies can help us see ourselves differently, and how you can begin to show up more fully as YOU. I also talk about the Reset experience and the Golden in-person event in London, where you can find tools, community, and support for navigating ADHD, perfectionism, and self-acceptance. Episode Breakdown
🔗 Links for reference:
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| The Societal Pressure Of Perfection With Thomas Curran | 17 Aug 2023 | 01:04:29 | |
Today's episode is all about the pressure of perfectionism! I'm joined by Thomas Curran, a psychology professor at the London School of Economics and the author of The Perfection Trap. Thomas has spent a lot of time uncovering how societal pressures are a big driving force of perfectionism. Today, Thomas explains how personality traits are linked to perfectionism and how this can impact mental health. We’ll delve into some of the pressures that lead to it and debunk misconceptions surrounding perfectionism and look at how it affects our lives and overall performance. Highlights: (12:38) It’s about trying to repair what you think is an imperfect self (14:59) Success is like a bottomless pit (19:27) Perfectionistic fantasies (26:01) Looking at the world from a different lens (28:26) It’s not healthy to be obsessive (36:20) Trying to overcompensate (41:25) You have to exist in a period of unknown (55:00) It’s about leaving something in the world You can connect with Thomas here Twitter: @thom_curran; LinkedIn: thom-curran You can find my FREE masterclass - How to Burn Bright Without Burning Out HERE. You can book a clarity call with me, to work on shame through compassion HERE. | |||
| Soothing Shame With Compassion and Connection | 09 Aug 2023 | 00:16:41 | |
Today we’re exploring an emotion. That ‘cringe’ emotion. That hiding-behind-a-pillow emotion. That fear-of-being-judged-by-others emotion. Shame. Join me today, and learn to soothe shame with compassion and connection.
Here are the highlights: (2:12) Shame and guilt (5:20) Fitting in (10:43) Peace with the past (14:20) Burning bright You can find my FREE masterclass - How to Burn Bright Without Burning Out HERE. You can book a clarity call with me, to work on shame through compassion HERE. | |||
| It’s Not Your Fault if You Have ADHD | 03 Aug 2023 | 00:16:03 | |
In this episode, I will share something I haven't shared on this podcast before. My hope is that you will feel seen. I want to boldly unmask what has been happening in my life and how I am evolving because I know you might be experiencing something similar. Join me as I open up about self-worth, self-compassion, and neurodiversity.
Highlights: (02:04) An evolution of growth (04:17) It’s nobody's fault! (06:40) Sense of liberation (07:54) 5 hours of free coaching (12:08) Things you need to get started (13:15) Realise that you are not alone!
If you want to be part of the ADHD/perfectionism focus group and receive a free 1:1 session, reach out to me on info@thethomasconnection.co.uk If you want to join my waiting list to be the first to hear about my offerings for perfectionistic, anxious ADHDers, enter your details here: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/ADHD Burn Bright masterclass: https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright
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| Balancing Necessary Self-Care with Nourishing Self-Care | 27 Jul 2023 | 00:15:24 | |
As mothers especially, we lack compassion for ourselves, and we don't implement self-care even though we know it's good for us and, better yet, that we deserve it! We should not ignore our needs because we are meeting everyone else's. All this does is drain us. We can choose to change! This episode looks at the necessary self-care and then looks at the tips for inviting more nourishing self-care into our day-to-day routines.
Highlights: (02:08) You have no time for you when (08:51) Which version of yourself will your children see? (09:53) What are your warning signs? (10:38) Yes but… (11:04) Get a pocket of pause (11:37) Doing self care can be small! (13:54) Create your own rhythm You can download my free worksheet, Calm the Overwhelm, here: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/calm Join us at the event I am hosting together with Sam Dhu, a recent guest on the podcast. Read more here: Nourishing You » Powered by ThriveCart Order my book, The Lasting Connection – develop love and compassion for yourself and your partner here: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thelastingconnection
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| Surviving Hard Knocks with Compassion | 19 Jul 2023 | 00:17:23 | |
Sometimes life can be tough. We all experience hard knocks, and it always feels everything comes at you at once. It can be overwhelming – I get it, and I am hear for you! In this episode we are going to talk about how you can tackle those hard knocks with compassion and strength, so that you come out of the other side better than ever. The brutal truth is that hard knocks are not easy to just grin and bear. They challenge us and they can get the worst out of us. Just remember: you can’t control what happens to you, but you can control how you respond to it. Let’s get through this together!
Highlights from this episode: (03:43) Reframing hard knocks as learning experiences (05:32) Hard knocks at work (09:5) Finding your feet when technology fails you (11:26) Speaking to yourself with grace
https://thethomasconnection.thrivecart.com/nourishing-you/
https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright/
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| Permission and Self-Worth with Sam Dhu | 12 Jul 2023 | 00:51:19 | |
Do you give yourself the permission to look after yourself? In this week’s episode, I’m having a deep chat with my old colleague and friend, Sam Dhu. Sam Dhu is a Psychotherapist, Coach & Facilitator of Permission. Mum to seven-year-old, Amelie and baby Frankie, and passionate advocate for being radically kind and compassionate to yourself. We're tackling self-worth, permission, societal pressures and letting go of perfection. It's not just about the pay check, it's about meaningful work that truly makes you happy. Plus, we have a special announcement about our upcoming event in central London on August 12th! Can't wait for you to hear this episode! Let's dive in. https://thethomasconnection.thrivecart.com/nourishing-you/ You can find Sam on Instagram @samanthadhu and on her website, https://courses.samanthadhu.com.au/courses/the-permission-granted-experience-2023 Highlights: (7.30) The link between perfectionism and self-worth. (10.17) The cycle between stagnation and procrastination. (15:57) The connection between success and worth. (19:37) You don’t need to be exceptional to make an impact. (25.48) The inner critic and inner bully. (29.05) The importance of self-compassion and self-worth. | |||
| Rest and Recovery from Stress | 05 Jul 2023 | 00:12:55 | |
How do you prepare for a period of stress? And more importantly, how do you recharge your batteries after a stressful event? It is so important to know how to decompress, so in this episode I talk through some of the things you can do to bookend those stressful periods, whether it’s a one-off event or a high pressure job. Highlights: (01:51) Practice what you teach (04:07) Making space for rest and recovery (05:42) Burn bright without burning out (07:23) The three questions to ask yourself (09:16) Stress peaks vs periods of stress Come along to my beautiful in person event with my friend Sam Dhu, Nourishing You, in London on the 12th of August: https://thethomasconnection.thrivecart.com/nourishing-you/
Watch the replay of the FREE masterclass for ambitious female entrepreneurs, founders, and CEOs wanting to create more impact in the world, with less impact on themselves: Burn Bright without Burning Out thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright | |||
| The Pressure To Look Perfect And Why Being Thinner Won’t Make You Happier | 29 Jun 2023 | 00:15:32 | |
How do you feel when you look at yourself in the mirror? Today I want us to address the pressure that comes with looking perfect. For example, society has made us believe being thinner will make us happier but it doesn't! Let’s take a deeper dive to understand why. Highlights: (00:59) More content with yourself (02:25) The Model Manifesto (06:32) Time consuming (09:08) Sense of preoccupation (10:17) The good girl narrative | |||
| Allowing Time For Change To Happen | 22 Jun 2023 | 00:18:14 | |
What happens when perfectionists come to the realisation that they want to change?
In this episode, I want to explore perfectionism and why it takes time to change. I also explore how patience is key to sustainable and long-lasting change.
Here are the highlights: (01:00) Patience is key. (2:56) What gets in the way of living a meaningful life? (4:57) Finding a new path to the jungle. (7:02) Give yourself time. (12:39) Shedding the skin.
Michaela's book, The Lasting Connection, can be found here: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thelastingconnection
Michaela's online course for couples: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thecompassionatecouple
Watch the replay of the FREE masterclass for ambitious female entrepreneurs, founders, and CEOs wanting to create more impact in the world, with less impact on themselves! How to Burn Bright, Without Burning Out (thethomasconnection.lpages.co) | |||
| This is How Your Marriage Ends, With Matthew Fray | 14 Jun 2023 | 00:39:23 | |
Today I'm joined by relationship coach and author, Matthew Fray. Matthew wasn’t always a writer. It all started with a blog post. Matthew wrote one post online about how his wife left him because he left dishes by the sink.
But it wasn’t really about the dishes. Join us today to hear how Matthew leans on the lessons of his own divorce to help others avoid making the same mistakes that he did.
Here are the highlights: (3:11) Matt’s blog (5:13) Dishes by the sink (11:20) A hard pill to swallow (19:56) Relativism and pain (25:00) Ended relationships (32:56) Awareness and compassion
You can find Matthew’s website and book HERE.
Michaela's book, The Lasting Connection, can be found here: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thelastingconnection
Michaela's online course for couples: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thecompassionatecouple
Watch the replay of the FREE masterclass for ambitious female entrepreneurs, founders, and CEOs wanting to create more impact in the world, with less impact on themselves! How to Burn Bright, Without Burning Out (thethomasconnection.lpages.co) | |||
| Rest - to create your best ideas | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:09:32 | |
In this episode, clinical psychologist Michaela Thomas explores the connection between rest and creativity, challenging the hustle culture notion that constant productivity leads to success. She emphasises that great ideas often come during moments of relaxation, not while grinding away at tasks. Michaela delves into the neurological basis for why rest enhances creativity, especially for neurodivergent individuals. She offers practical tips for incorporating short breaks and restful activities into daily routines to foster creativity and maintain mental well-being. Listeners are invited to join 'The Reset,' a free seven-day program designed to help regulate the nervous system, ultimately fueling productivity and innovation.
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| The Spacious Life You’re Trying to Create | 07 Jun 2023 | 00:14:13 | |
I want you to think about the kind of life you're trying to create. What would life be like if you were more compassionate with yourself? Why would you want to let go of ‘perfect’ when society demands that of you? It’s all about letting go of the pursuit of perfection. Join me today to hear how all this can help you create a more spacious life.
Here are the highlights: (1:29) Just keep going (2:50) Stepping out of perfectionism (6:05) A compassionate mind (9:45) Who do you want to be (11:40) Compassionate minds | |||
| Procrastination And Self-Compassion For Avoiding Fear | 01 Jun 2023 | 00:17:49 | |
In this episode, I want to talk about procrastination and how you can feel compassion for yourself for your own avoidance.
So let me ask you, have you recently procrastinated again? Have you wasted time scrolling on your phone? Maybe you've gotten down a rabbit hole on Instagram.
I share my tips on how to end procrastination and become more productive.
Here are the highlights: (3:51) All art is unfinished. (7:51) Systems processes and focus tools. (10:06) Boom and bust cycle. (11:47) Why perfectionism can feed procrastination. (13:23) The seven steps to breaking procrastination. | |||
| Tolerating Fear of Failure and Making Mistakes | 24 May 2023 | 00:10:21 | |
Today we’re looking at fear of failure and making mistakes. This is a big one. We all hate it. We all try to avoid it. Recently, failure has become more discussed and socially accepted. We see podcasts and books on the topic, yet we don't feel less cringy when we mess up. So, join me for this episode as I outline my tips on tolerating the fear of failure and making mistakes.
Here are the highlights: (2:05) What is the problem? (4:13) Get comfortable with the uncomfortable (5:53) Self-worth (7:36) Forgiving yourself (8:51) Human brains are tricky
Find out more about my book, The Lasting Connection at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thelastingconnection
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection | |||
| Sustainable Productivity | 18 May 2023 | 00:11:02 | |
Today we’re thinking about performance, pacing, permission and pressure. Lots of P words. I like P words. Ask yourself, why does your productivity and performance fluctuate? Why do you procrastinate?
Well, join me for today’s episode because I'm bringing you my three tips on sustainable productivity.
Here are the highlights: (1:57) Pressure doesn’t equal productive (4:37) Pacing before burnout (7:39) Consistency is key (9:19) Meditation goals
Find out more about my book, The Lasting Connection at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thelastingconnection
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection
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| My WHY And Purpose Is My Vulnerability | 17 May 2023 | 00:07:44 | |
This is the story of my why and my vulnerability. Purpose often comes from a story of pain and today I want to tell you about mine. I hope that the experiences I’ve gone through will remind you that you are not alone! You too can start to live your purpose and start to feel free! Here are the highlights: (02:21) Purposeful work (03:22) The worried well! (03:39) Vitality and joy (03:59) Good girl conditioning (04:54) I couldn't do it anymore! Find out more about my book, The Lasting Connection at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thelastingconnection
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection | |||
| The Negative Self-Talk From Your Inner Critic | 17 May 2023 | 00:11:51 | |
If you have a strong inner critical voice, then this episode is for you! Sometimes, your inner critic can be full of fear and doubt. It can be angry or subtle, driving a commentary in the back of your mind. In whatever form it takes, the inner critic is difficult to ignore. Today, we'll talk about the forms it takes, why you have it, how it protects you, and what to do about this voice. Here are the highlights: (05:00) Mantras of meanness (05:55) What shape does it take? (06:27) Why do we do it? (07:48) Fear! (08:22) The punishment doesn’t fit the crime
Find out more about my book, The Lasting Connection at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thelastingconnection
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection
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| Trailer | 17 May 2023 | 00:01:41 | |
Welcome to the Pause Purpose Play podcast. This podcast is for you if you're a high-striving, ambitious working woman. If you want to burn bright without the stress of juggling work with life. It’s about stepping out of overthinking and embracing imperfection for more fun and freedom.
So, join me to hear my tips on navigating this tricky life using pause, purpose and play.
Here are the highlights: (00:28) Burning bright (00:49) Pause Purpose Play (1:00) What to expect (1:20) Taking the leap
Find out more about my book, The Lasting Connection at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thelastingconnection
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection | |||
| The Stories In Your Mind Holding You Back | 10 May 2023 | 00:10:22 | |
What gets in your way when it comes to implementing change? How does your inner critical voice stop you from improving your life and being kinder to yourself? Today, we're exploring the stories that show up in our minds. Here are the highlights: (02:35) All-or-nothing patterns. (03:27) These stories can be rewritten. (04:17) Compassion (05:31) Action taking! (09:25) Long lasting change
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| Setting Boundaries - with Louisa Clarke | 03 May 2023 | 00:33:36 | |
Today we're talking about difficult conversations in the workplace. Lots of us have people-pleasing tendencies, and we may not like conflict. This can make it difficult to set boundaries or say no to things. Our nervous system can kick in and freak us out. So today, I'm talking to Louisa Clarke. She’s guiding us in setting boundaries whilst acting in line with our values.
Here are the highlights: (2:50) Meet Louisa (5:08) Power dynamics (12:38) How to say no (17:19) Not a people pleaser? (23:25) Trapped in resentment (29:52) Giving permission
You can find out more about Louisa via her website HERE.
You can connect with Louisa on LinkedIn HERE.
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| From overthinking to taking action | 05 Apr 2023 | 00:13:39 | |
Why is that you overthink your every decision? You consider every angle, so you end up not taking action? Or you take action only when you have to, to meet a deadline? Maybe you want to dot all the i's and cross all the t's, until it's perfect? What is overthinking costing you, in terms of energy levels and productivity? Could you be spending that time more wisely? Last episode, I mentioned that I will be talking about procrastination today. And this is such a big topic, that I decided to make it a series. Overthinking is definitely part of procrastination, so let’s start there. In this short episode, you’ll learn: - a way of noticing that you are stuck in overthinking - a simple tool to interrupt overthinking and indecisiveness - an easy step to take to get you started on an action Please rate and review this podcast - to help others discover it! Download my FREE guide to calm the overwhelm: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/calm Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection | |||
| Going through ADHD assessment in mid-life, with Georgina Fuller | 10 Sep 2025 | 01:02:33 | |
Have you considered whether you're ADHD or whether it's just parenting in modern life, or if it's the perimenopause? Maybe you're struggling because you are affected by all of the above! In this heartfelt episode of Pause Purpose Play, Clinical Psychologist Michaela Thomas welcomes journalist Georgina Fuller, writer of the Telegraph article featuring the ADHD assessment she had with Michaela earlier this year. This is an honest conversation about the realities of being a neurodivergent woman raising neurodivergent children, and finding out your own diagnosis of ADHD in the midst of the chaos. Georgina shares her personal story, the impact of public writing on neurodiversity, and the importance of self-compassion in the face of stigma and online criticism. Plus, Michaela introduces The Reset, her upcoming nervous system reset experience, designed to help ADHD women find gentle, effective practices to make small shifts towards healthier habits for their rather overstretched nervous systems.
Resources & Links Read Georgina’s article in The Telegraph: Do I have ADHD? At age 47, I took the test to finally find out Connect with Georgina: MuckRack profile or search for her work online Free reset for busy ADHD brains: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/reset ADHD assessment clarity call: Contact Michaela via Instagram or her website | |||
| Being kind, caring and compassionate to others | 30 Mar 2023 | 00:09:07 | |
Do you know anyone in your life that you think could do with being a bit kinder to themselves? Someone who could do with slowing down a bit or maybe not working so hard? Responding to others with compassion can not only help them to feel better, but it also helps us feels better - as doing good, feels good. It can also help us to be more compassionate to ourselves.
In this short solo episode, I look at what treating others with kindness, care and compassion does to our brains, and I invite you to try it too.
Find out more about my book, The Lasting Connection at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/thelastingconnection
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection | |||
| Changing habits by embracing failure with grace | 23 Mar 2023 | 00:08:02 | |
Change is hard. Have you decided to change any of your habits this year? Want to be healthier in some way, or shave off some of your annoying sides? Well, my friend: If nothing changes, nothing changes. In this solo episode, I look at how we can change our habits by embracing failure, so make sure you have a pen and paper handy, because I have six tips for changing habits for you at the end.
To watch my free masterclass for ambitious female entrepreneurs, How to Burn Bright Without Burning Out, go to: https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection | |||
| The Power of Pausing, with Chris Johnson | 16 Mar 2023 | 00:52:16 | |
Can a little pause really make a big difference? What does pausing add to our lives - and why don’t you want to do it? I’ll be discussing this and more with my guest today, Chris Johnson. Chris Johnson, PsyD., is the founder of Q4 Consulting, Inc. and the Core Presence Institute™. Her passion is cultivating exemplary leaders, collaborative teams, healthy workplaces, and thriving communities. In this episode we talk about -
You can find out more about Chris at www.q4-consulting.com or email her at DrChris@Q4-consulting.com To watch my free masterclass for ambitious female entrepreneurs, How to Burn Bright Without Burning Out, go to: https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection
This podcast is produced by Emily Crosby Media. | |||
| Follow your passion sustainably to avoid burnout | 09 Mar 2023 | 00:15:32 | |
Follow your passion! But do so sustainably, so you're not flirting with burnout. As it is easy to overdo it when you are passionate about making an impact. Too much of a good thing is still too much. This short solo episode covers: Tips for following your passion sustainably, the importance of downtime for a purposeful life, and how you make wise decisions about protecting your capacity and harnessing your energy, to better utilise your potential. Remember: if you burn out, you cannot burn bright. To watch my free masterclass for ambitious female entrepreneurs, How to Burn Bright Without Burning Out, go to: https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection | |||
| How to step out of the rat race at work | 02 Mar 2023 | 00:24:25 | |
Do you work too many hours or push yourself to achieve things even at your own detriment? You want to be successful, but maybe you’re not clear on what success looks like for you, and confuse it with what the patriarchal definition of productivity looks like – clocking up at least 40 hours a week. This solo episode was an experiment – recording an Instagram live mini training onto the podcast at the same time, with any free flow imperfections that brought, so turn the volume down a bit for better audio. The session focused on your relationship with five factors which influence how you get stuck in a rat race at work and in your business – your relationship with success, with yourself, with productivity, with achievement, and with comparison with others. Listen to this episode to learn more about:
When you DO address these patterns, you can start to build more enjoyment. As it is SO common to get stuck into these patterns of overworking, please share this episode and talk to your friends about it. It is possible to unpick and change these patterns.
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media.
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| Rest, feminism, activism and the patriarchy, with Keri Jarvis | 23 Feb 2023 | 00:59:07 | |
Are you passionate about changing the world? About bridging the gender pay gap, or otherwise minimising the marginalisation of women? About doing good in the world, wanting to help others? Perhaps you want to do SO MUCH, that you get so overwhelmed you end up taking no action at all? Then listen up, as whatever impact you want to have, you need to consider how you minimise the negative impact on yourself in the process, to avoid burnout. In this episode, I speak to inspirational Keri Jarvis, who is a Developmental Coach, Intersectional Feminist & Community Activist. In this episode we talk about:
You'll find Keri at https://kerijarvis.com/ Keri referenced the book Rest is Resistance by the Nap Ministry - https://thenapministry.com/
Find out more about my transformation 6 month group coaching Burn Bright at https://thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright/ Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection | |||
| Stepping Out of the Burnout Cycle | 09 Feb 2023 | 00:13:52 | |
Working mothers are more vulnerable to burnout today, juggling the demands of work with caring responsibilities.
I know what it's like to run a business and to navigate two young kids. It's not easy, and it's not perfect.
I hope that this solo episode will help you realise and recognise some of the patterns in yourself which might mean that you're on the path towards burnout, or help prevent you from replicating patterns of previous burnout.
To avoid hitting burnout and creating a work/life balance serving both your well-being and your bank balance, sign up to my free webinar How to Burn Bright without Burning Out on 10th February at 12.00 (replay available after this date) https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright/
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media. | |||
| Perfectionism and Burnout in Female Entrepreneurs | 02 Feb 2023 | 00:14:28 | |
In this episode, you’ll learn more about why striving for perfect in your business burns you out – and what to do about it. We’ll cover three big problems female entrepreneurs face when juggling their business with their home life – and also think about three common patterns of perfectionism which make make business owners struggle.
Sign up to my free webinar How to Burn Bright without Burning Out on 10th February https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright/ Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media. | |||
| Another chance to hear - From toxic productivity to joy, with Tamu Thomas | 26 Jan 2023 | 01:00:32 | |
All work and no play, does that bring you joy? In a culture where toxic productivity is praised and rewards you with achievement, it’s hard to stop and appreciate beauty, to find everyday joy.
In this episode, I speak with Tamu Thomas about how difficult it is to let go of toxic productivity, and move towards everyday joy and moments that matter instead. By letting the joy in, we also let the pain in.
Tamu Thomas is a Qualified Social Worker & Somatic Coach. She helps high-achieving women feel emotionally safe so they can recover from toxic productivity & under-living.
We cover:
Tamu can be found at www.livethreesixty.com and @livethreesixty on Instagram
Order my book, The Lasting Connection, here Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||
| Another chance to hear - Healing attachment trauma, with Thais Gibson | 19 Jan 2023 | 01:06:00 | |
How do we heal difficult experiences from our childhood? And how to they impact us as adults, in our relationships? How do painful childhood experiences shape our attachment styles? In this, my most popular episode, I talk to Thais Gibson about attachment styles, trauma and the unconscious mind keeping a score of what we've been through, giving rise to protective behaviours, which can ultimately still be changed. Thais Gibson is an author, speaker and co-creator of the Personal Development School, best known for her contributing work and research on Attachment Theory and the impact of attachment trauma on our adult romantic relationships. She overlaps attachment trauma challenges with personal core wounds, limiting beliefs and emotional patterns at the subconscious level to give us deeper insight into ourselves and our relationships. We talk about 4:58 Thais' story 9:15 Bringing a high achieving attitude to recovery 11:30 Noticing a critical inner voice 13:30 Thais' recovery from addiction 16:42 Healing attachment pain from childhood 18:10 Internalising our upbringing 21:00 Patterns in attachment styles - 22:44 Securely attached - 24:54 Insecure dismissive - 27:42 Anxious preoccupied - 30:22 Fearful avoidant 35:43 Steps to combat protest behaviours 44:54 The benefits of inner work 54:31 Why we self-sabotage Find out more about Thais at www.personaldevelopmentschool.com Order my book, The Lasting Connection, here Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||
| Nervous system regulation without wanky wellness or woo | 03 Sep 2025 | 00:12:35 | |
Do you feel frazzled, fizzy, reactive, or on edge? Your nervous system might be dysregulated. In this episode of Pause Purpose Play, I talk about something I know so many of us struggle with – regulating our nervous systems. You’ve probably seen all the advice flying around on social media – ice baths, cold plunges, endless hacks – but a lot of it isn’t grounded in science, and even more importantly, it isn’t tailored to you. Instead of chasing trends, I want to help you find regulation practices that actually work for your unique brain and body. For me, that looks less like forcing myself into an ice bath, and more like something simple and soothing – like warm water and slowing down with my breath. Breathwork is one of the most powerful (and free!) tools we all have at our disposal. And if you’d like a little help bringing your nervous system back into balance, I’ve created something special: The Rest to Reset experience. It’s a free 7-day reset, designed to give you practical, manageable tools to regulate your nervous system – without adding pressure or overwhelm. ✨ Join The Rest to Reset experience for free here → www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/reset We start 22nd of Sept! | |||
| Corporate pressures - stay or leave, with Fiona Kearns | 15 Dec 2022 | 01:06:10 | |
When is enough enough? If you find yourself burnt out from the corporate environment, trying to be all things to all people, should you stay or should you leave? Is it worth holding on and hope for thing to improve, or are the gestures that organizations make towards mental health awareness not enough? These are the issues I’ll be tackling today with my guest, Fiona Kearns. Fiona Kearns is a business psychologist who helps people get rid of self doubt, to feel confident about playing huge in life and work. She loves the thrill of helping clients manage their impostor syndrome to become confident, visible and more impactful. In this episode we talk about:
You'll find Fiona under Kearns Consultancy. https://kearnsconsultancy.com/
Find out more and join the waitlist for Burn Bright at https://thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright/ Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection | |||
| The Zones of Comfort, Confidence, Challenge and Compassion | 08 Dec 2022 | 00:11:33 | |
Do you feel overstretched by constantly reaching for your stretchy goals? Are you scared to retreat to your comfort zone for fear of playing it small? In this episode, I explain the zones of comfort, confidence, challenge and compassion, and how moving between them when you need to, can help you reach your goals without burnout. This is going to be a short episode, but if you're able to get a pen and paper out, try to jot down a few things as you're listening., because this could be potentially life changing. If you can find the way to address these different zones differently in your life, in your work, in your business, in your job, in your parenting, with your friends, whatever it might be, this could potentially change your life.
Find out more and join the waitlist for Burn Bright at https://thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright/ Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection | |||
| How to Eat Better Without Aiming for a Perfect Diet, with Thalia Pellegrini | 01 Dec 2022 | 01:04:54 | |
Are you hooked on the idea of the perfect diet? If only you could eat right, everything else would fall into place? This week’s guest, nutritional therapist Thalia Pellegrini, believes that you can give up striving for the perfect diet, and learn to nourish yourself instead. In this episode we talk about:
We also talked about eating intuitively, vegetarianism and the perimenopause.
Find Thalia’s free five minute breakfast recipes at www.thaliapellegrini.com Instagram @thaliapellegrini_nutrition or email thalia@thaliapellegrini.com
Find out more and join the waitlist for Burn Bright at https://thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright/ Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection | |||
| Overworking and Productivity | 24 Nov 2022 | 00:13:01 | |
In this episode of Pause Purpose Play, Michaela explores why overworking doesn't make you more productive. Why more doesn’t always mean more. Why overworking and powering through so often leads to burn out. If you have been doing really long hours, maybe working on the weekends pushing through into the evenings, this episode is for you.
Find out more and join the waitlist for Burn Bright at https://thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright/ Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media. | |||
| Be Less Busy, Create More Impact with Chris Lovett | 17 Nov 2022 | 01:09:20 | |
If you’re overwhelmed by busy-ness and the need to do all the things, then this episode is for you. In this episode of Pause Purpose Play, Michaela chats with Chris Lovett about the benefits of minimalism in life and work - and how breaking up with 'busy' helps you create more impact through renewed focus. We cover:
Discovery of LESS: How I Found Everything I Wanted Underneath Everything I Owned, by Chris Lovett
Find out more about my group coaching for women who struggle with perfectionism and not feeling enough by messaging me - www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/contact-us/ Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay Chris Lovett is an author, executive & simplicity coach, speaker, career mentor and minimalist. Discovery of LESS: How I Found Everything I Wanted Underneath Everything I Owned, by Chris Lovett
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||
| Another Chance to Hear - Balance and Bold Boundaries, with Naketa Ren Thigpen | 05 Oct 2022 | 00:56:27 | |
Do you say no? Can you set boundaries? This re-released episode is one of my most listened to, because setting boundaries to protect your energy is so difficult.
I talked to Naketa Ren Thigpen, about how setting boundaries helps us create balance in our lives. Naketa R. Thigpen, LCSW, is the go-to relationship advisor for fast-scaling married women entrepreneurs and power couples seeking to balance love and success without dimming or apologizing for their spirited ambition. We talk about 3:55 Being a recovering perfectionist 6:30 Naketa's life experience 8:39 Giving high striving people permission to slow down 10:30 The effects of the pandemic on high striving people 13:42 The connection between our relationships and our businesses 15:42 Community not competition 16:38 Creating balance 17:40 Shedding old expectations 21:41 The boundaries Naketa sets for herself 23:18 Friendship expectations 26:45 Sharing from personal experience 27:18 Writing the book 'Selfish' 29:08 Reclaiming the word selfish 34:45 Feminism 36:18 Talking from a scar, not an open wound 41:23 A message to Naketa's younger self 44:22 Being a woman of colour in business
Naketa's website - https://thigpro.com/
Book a call with me about my group coaching programme Burn Bright here: Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection | |||
| Pausing to Protect Your Energy and Focus | 29 Sep 2022 | 00:11:51 | |
Taking a break is hard. I have had a podcast break. I’ve been working on something behind the scenes: Burn Bright, my high touch group coaching programme for ambitious women who want to make an impact, with less impact on themselves. I am all about finding balance over burnout – no more late nights working to clear your to do list, no more ‘doing all the things, all at once’ and feeling so wired that you struggle to switch off even when you’re NOT working. As I needed to create this programme fully embodying what I teach others, I had to cut myself a bunch of slack and give myself a break with the podcast. Therefore I will be re-releasing some of my most loved episodes, to celebrate having reached the milestone of 100 episodes! To celebrate my successes without the second guesses. Let me know in the comments if you ever give yourself this permission to temporarily pause something, to protect your energy and focus! Find out more about Burn Bright here - https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright/
Order my book, The Lasting Connection, here Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||
| Taking a Break Mid Launch | 18 Aug 2022 | 00:15:44 | |
Stopping when you’re really busy is hard - there is just too much to do! Right? But if you’re getting overwhelmed, to the point where you’re not actually getting anything done (hello procrastination!), that’s the time for you to take a break. To protect your energy and ultimately also help you reach your goals better when you return from the break.
You’ll be more productive when you are rested, and have bigger impact.
In this short solo episode, I share some vulnerability around how I had to take a break in the middle of launching my new group coaching programme, Burn Bright, as I otherwise would have been replicating old patterns of perfectionism and burnout. I needed some rest and recovery, so I took it, knowing that pushing through is not the answer. It wasn’t easy, I had to set a gentle boundary with myself, like not taking my laptop with me on my holiday and staying off social media.
If you struggle with this, and want to know how to take a break before you break, register for my Masterclass “How to burn bright without burning out” here: https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright/
Email me for more details about my coaching programme Burn Bright - info@thethomasconnection.co.uk
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||
| Breaking the Mould, with Starling | 27 Jul 2022 | 00:46:13 | |
Being a pioneer, doing things differently and breaking the mould of what is expected of you can be linked with both success AND big feelings of worry around failure. In this episode, I talk to pop princess and coach Harriet Starling, better known as Starling, about how how we can follow our purpose in a sustainable way without the burnout. We talked about how receiving criticism meant she has ‘made it’ - and feeling worthy even when the music industry fed her messages around not being enough. In this episode, you’ll also hear Starling’s amazing song Every Single Time performed, and understand why it is a mantra for enoughness.
We cover:
Find Starling on Instagram: @starlingsworld and her music on Spotify under Starling Order my book, The Lasting Connection, here Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||
| The Dark Side of Drive | 21 Jul 2022 | 00:11:11 | |
If you’re ambitious, like me, you may have a long to-do list and plenty of goals you want to reach. Being ambitious is fine, I am all for having drive and passion, or a big picture vision you want to fulfil. In this short solo episode, I talk about the dark side of your drive and ambition – the ways it has a negative impact on you. I cover:
I would love it if you could join me for a free masterclass, “How to burn bright, without burning out”. If you listen to this episode after the 21st of July, still head to the link and you’ll be able to see the replay recording of this live, free training. Link to masterclass: Burn Bright webinar opt-in (thethomasconnection.lpages.co)
Order my book, The Lasting Connection, here Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||
| How perfectionism and self-criticism impact ADHD women, with Kristin Carder | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:51:21 | |
Ever felt weighed down by shame, self-criticism, or parenting guilt as a woman with ADHD? You’re not alone. In this vulnerable episode, Michaela welcomes Kristin Carder, host of the hit podcast “I Have ADHD,” for a frank and compassionate conversation about the hidden struggles of ambitious, neurodivergent women. Together, they discuss how ADHD shows up as internal chaos, why criticism and rejection hurt so much, and what it takes to forgive yourself and repair with your kids. If you battle perfectionism, loud inner criticism, or regret how you’ve parented in the past, this episode offers comfort and practical support. Discover why compassion beats shame—and why it’s never too late to start again. Highlights:
About Kristin: Kristin Carder is a certified ADHD coach and host of the “I Have ADHD Podcast.” Learn more: https://ihaveadhd.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ihaveadhdpodcast/ Find Michaela: Instagram: www.instagram.com/the_thomas_connection LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaela-thomas/ Interested in Michaela’s Burn Bright group coaching for ADHD women? Doors are open for the Oct 2025 start: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright | |||
| How to Burn Bright, Not Burn Out | 14 Jul 2022 | 00:10:16 | |
Too busy for self-care… Too many things on the to-do list… Work is never ending… Dealing with the mental load… No wonder you’re overwhelmed and frazzled. There are lots of pressures on you, coming from every angle, but there are also pressures coming from within you. Internalised high standards around always achieving more, always doing your best, never cutting corners, never failing. You may feel like you have tried LOADS of things, and yet still feel stuck in perfectionism, procrastination and overwhelm. Constantly trying to be productive means you are never switching off, never resting. In this episode, I share three things which may help you shift out of the overproductivity trap. I also tell you about my upcoming free masterclass, How to Burn Bright, Without Burning Out. There’s a reason why you’ve signed up to a bunch of things which WOULD be helpful… if you actually did them consistently – you need clarity as to why you have that pattern, so you can gently choose another way and spend your energy more wisely. So you can burn bright, without any of the burnout. Link to my free, live training on the 21st of July: https://thethomasconnection.lpages.co/burnbright/
Order my book, The Lasting Connection, here Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||
| The Pros and Cons of Perfectionism | 30 Jun 2022 | 00:10:36 | |
Remember trying to turn one of your weaknesses into a strength for a job interview, and casually saying “I’m a perfectionist”, as if it’s a good thing? You could say that there are a lot of good things which perfectionism can be associated with. There are also a lot of drawbacks to it, and the same parts of perfectionism which serves you well in life, can also end up costing you your health and relationships. Tune into this short solo episode about the pros and cons of perfectionism, to see how it affects you, and see if you are striving for excellence or perfection.
Order my book, The Lasting Connection, here Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||
| How to Sleep Better (By Not Trying) with Dr. Guy Meadows | 23 Jun 2022 | 00:56:45 | |
Sweet sleep - a good night’s sleep refreshes you, a bad one frustrates you. If you lie in bed tossing and turning, worrying about how knackered you’ll be in the morning without the perfect night’s sleep, then this episode is for you.
I spoke to Dr Guy Meadows about how to get a good night’s sleep, how to stop struggling against ‘bad sleep’, and what to do when you just can’t sleep due to young children or anxious thoughts.
Dr Guy Meadows is a leading figure in the area of chronic insomnia, pioneering the use of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness treatment. He has worked with thousands of insomnia sufferers over the last 10 years at his London-based clinic and around the world, and has set up the Sleep School to help stop insomniacs needlessly suffering around the world. Guy is the author of The Sleep Book – How to sleep well every night.
We cover:
- Sleep helps us be focused, motivated and problem solve - Biological sleep needs and genetics - The majority of us wake up unrefreshed - Deep sleep, light sleep and REM sleep - Why we sleep, and why we wake - Acceptance and Commitment Therapy - The struggle with insomnia = fight/flight boosts alertness - Physical/mental aspects of the sleep conditioned response - Insomnia as a heightened sense of awareness - The steps to sleeping well - 1. Accepting the discomfort - 2. Open to difficult thoughts and feelings - 3. Live your life to lesson resentment - Start living a valuable life _with_ insomnia, to feel more content - The links between sleep and mood - The science of sleep and the brain - Changing what you can, accepting what you can’t - Letting go of the rigid rules around sleep - The benefits of rest if you can’t sleep - Quiet wakefulness vs. active wakefulness - Pause pockets
Order my book, The Lasting Connection, here Find out more about my upcoming group coaching for women who struggle with perfectionism and not feeling enough by messaging me - www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/contact-us/ Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk Instagram: @the_thomas_connection Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
This episode was edited by Emily Crosby Media | |||