Permission to Rest, Permission to Play: Finding Joy and Grace | Carmen Price Carrillo

“You don’t need to earn your joy.”How do we keep joy at the center of our lives, especially when the world tells us to be productive instead? In this heartwarming and hilarious episode, I sit down with my dear friend Carmen Price Carrillo to talk about joy, boundaries, and all the things we’re allowed to do simply because they make us happy. From national park road trips to pottery Thursdays and unexpected D&D adventures, we reflect on friendship, finding rest, and giving yourself permission to live for you. We also talk candidly about Carmen’s journey to an ADHD diagnosis, the difference a supportive workplace makes, and how rest, play, and creativity are all essential for well-being. Oh—and if you don’t know what a Shadow Daddy is, don’t worry. You will.👸🏽 Crowns were worn. Joy was shared. TakeawaysIt's okay to disconnect and prioritize rest.Finding joy in small moments can be transformative.Creative outlets like pottery can foster personal growth.Embracing neurodiversity in the workplace leads to a healthier environment.It's important to give yourself grace and allow for rest.Friendship can provide a safe space for vulnerability.Saying no is a crucial skill for maintaining balance.Stories and empathy can create a more connected world. Keywordsjoy, self-care, neurodiversity, creativity, friendship, personal growth, adventure, rest, workplace culture, mental health 📚 Resources & MentionsBooks:Percy Jackson series by Rick RiordanHarry Potter series by J.K. RowlingFourth Wing by Rebecca YarrosA Court of Thorns and Roses & other books by Sarah J. MaasHow to Focus (author not mentioned—tiny but dense, according to Carmen!)Apps & Tools:Libby – A free library app for ebooks and audiobooksUnderglaze transfers – Used in pottery to create decorative designs without needing to hand-drawConcepts & Inside Jokes:Shadow Daddies – A tongue-in-cheek term for morally gray romantasy heroes with shadows, trauma, and swoon-worthy vibesTry It Tuesday – Carmen and friends' tradition of trying new hobbies together, from aerial yoga to glassblowingAlone but together – A cozy concept from Carmen’s road trip: sharing space with people you love, even while doing your own thing📂 Section Markers01:12 Section 1: Joy in the Messy Middle31:43 Section 2: Grace, Growth, and Giving Yourself Permission 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps01:12 The Importance of Rest and Disconnecting03:53 Nature Encounters and Travel Stories06:29 Finding Joy in Shared Experiences09:44 The Power of Joyful Connections12:00 Exploring New Activities Together14:22 Navigating Adult Responsibilities and Joy17:11 The Joy of Pottery and Creative Expression19:34 Finding Joy in Small Things22:09 Rediscovering Joy in Hobbies24:54 The Role of Supportive Relationships27:27 Embracing Individual Joys30:15 The Journey to Self-Acceptance and Joy36:35 Generational Friendships and Their Impact40:51 The Power of Books in Shaping Identity45:58 Navigating ADHD and Workplace Dynamics58:30 Finding Joy in Self-Care and Boundaries58:50 Creating a More Joyful World Through Empathy 💬 Quotes to hold on to:"It's okay to disconnect and prioritize rest.""Saying no is a crucial skill for maintaining balance.""Your brain works differently, and that’s not bad—it’s just different. And now I know what I need to thrive.""Celebrate all the things. Find all the joy. Just feel happiness.""It’s okay to nap. It’s okay to not be okay. I’m learning how to give myself grace."Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter 📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife