Ep. 234 Exploring New Horizons - Career Convo with Melody Olson

What if the next level of your leadership doesn’t come from pushing harder—but from pausing on purpose?In this episode of The Pausecast, I sit down with Melody Olson, former Senior Engineering Director at Google, for a refreshingly honest conversation about leadership, career evolution, and what happens when you stop following the “expected” path.After a successful, high-profile career at Google, Melody chose to pause—and that decision opened the door to a new chapter defined by curiosity, intentional growth, and smarter risks.We talk about:Why pausing can be a strategic move (not a setback)How smart risks build stronger leaders and teamsThe reality of balancing family life with ambitious careersWhy investing in personal growth pays off long-termSetting boundaries, protecting deep work, and redefining successLetting go of linear career ladders and embracing a “jungle gym” pathIf you’re a leader who’s successful on paper—but sensing there’s more available to you—this conversation will resonate.Real talk. Grounded wisdom. Permission to evolve.Connect with Melody on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melody-olson/ Thanks for tuning in this week—and as always, remember: your pause might be the most powerful move you make.