What Is Your Inner Critic Really Trying to Tell You? With Emily Pagone | POP 1385

Is your inner critic protecting you, or preventing you from growing? What fears show up when you give yourself permission to rest? How much longer are you willing to wait before pursuing the things that bring you joy? In this episode, Joe Sanok talks with Emily Pagone about transforming your inner critic from an obstacle into a source of insight. Rather than fighting self criticism, Emily explains how approaching it with curiosity can uncover the fears driving it, making it easier to move forward with confidence and self compassion. The conversation also explores how burnout, perfectionism, and fear can keep therapists from pursuing meaningful work. Emily shares how confronting her own inner critic inspired her to launch a podcast after years of hesitation. She encourages clinicians to create space for rest, reflect on what truly brings them joy, and take intentional action instead of letting fear make their decisions.