The Pausecast

"Without the people, there is no company."  - Janice LitvinBurnout is often framed as a personal problem to solve.Practice more self-care. Set better boundaries. Become more resilient.In this conversation, burnout prevention expert, speaker, and author Janice Litvin joins me to explore why burnout is a two-way street between people and organizations. We discuss how leaders can create healthier, more sustainable workplaces while navigating AI, increasing workloads, and constant change.Janice shares her journey from tech recruiting during the 2008 financial crisis to becoming a leading voice in burnout prevention. Together, we unpack the role of emotional intelligence, the importance of psychological safety, and why the "glue skills" that build trust and connection may become even more valuable in the years ahead.If you're leading a team, navigating uncertainty, or simply trying to stay grounded in a rapidly changing world, this conversation offers practical tools and an important reminder: people are still at the heart of every successful organization.Moments Worth Pausing For: 5:10 || Burnout Is a Two-Way StreetBurnout isn't just an employee problem. Janice explains why organizations, leaders, and workplace systems play a significant role in either preventing or contributing to burnout. 10:50 || The Power of Glue SkillsAs AI reshapes the workplace, human skills like connection, trust, communication, and emotional intelligence become even more valuable. These "glue skills" help teams thrive and can't be automated. 12:10 || What the CMU Recruiting Story RevealsJanice shared the story of a talented CMU engineering candidate who never interacted with a human during the hiring process(!) A powerful reminder that technology should enhance human connection, not replace it. 18:00 | Pause Before You ReactJanice's STOP framework, a cousin to Pause:Stop. Take a Breath. Observe. Proceed.A simple practice that helps us respond thoughtfully instead of reacting impulsively when stress levels rise. 21:40 | Psychological Safety Starts with LeadershipLeaders can help prevent burnout by creating environments where employees feel safe speaking up, asking for help, sharing feedback, and bringing their full selves to work.Key TakeawaysThe future of work isn't just about technology, it's about how we lead people through change.The organizations that thrive won't simply adopt the latest tools. They'll create cultures where people feel supported, valued, and connected. As Janice reminds us, caring for people isn't separate from business success. It's a critical part of it.Watch the Video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kj4Xcli_CYA&t=11s

What happens when a Silver Medalist, Olympic athlete, F100 leader, women's sports advocate, and cancer survivor shares the lessons she's learned about performance, purpose, and trusting yourself through life's biggest transitions?In this inspiring conversation, I sit down with Kate Johnson, a 2004 Olympic rower, trailblazing sports marketing leader at Google, TED speaker, and breast cancer survivor. Kate's story is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and listening to your inner wisdom when the path ahead feels uncertain.For high-achieving tech leaders who are questioning what's next, feeling stuck in the grind, or wondering whether they're still aligned with the work they're doing, this episode offers a refreshing reminder: success isn't just about pushing harder. Sometimes the breakthrough comes from reconnecting to joy, trusting your intuition, and creating space to hear yourself think. ⏱️ Quote Worth Remembering"The 1st and 2nd thoughts are usually based in fear. The 3rd thought is where the truth lives." - Kate Johnson, 2004 Olympic Sliver Medalist, US Rowing W8+In this episode, we explore:✨ How Kate wrote "Olympian" as a goal after only six weeks of rowing and made it a reality(!)✨ The surprising parallels between elite athletics and executive leadership✨ What it was like building Google's sports marketing practice from the ground up and convincing others to believe in a vision before they could see it✨ Why finding joy again helped her overcome one of the toughest periods of her Olympic journey✨ The life-changing lessons she learned during her battle with Stage 3 breast cancer✨ How a six-month leave of absence transformed her priorities, career, and life✨ The powerful "third thought" practice that helps quiet fear and reconnect with truth✨ Why being fully committed matters when deciding whether to stay, leave, or pursue your next big opportunityMoments worth pausing for:🏅 04:00 — Writing down an Olympic dream after just six weeks of rowing🚀 18:30 — Building something new at Google and navigating resistance as a trailblazer💛 28:00 — Returning to joy when hard work alone wasn't producing results🎗️ 36:00 — The breast cancer diagnosis that changed everything🌲 41:00 — Why stepping away created clarity, healing, and a new vision for life✨ 48:00 — The "third thought" technique for making aligned career decisions🎯 58:00 — How to know when it's time to move on from a roleIf you've been wondering whether you're playing small, questioning your next move, or feeling disconnected from the work that once energized you, this conversation is a powerful invitation to pause, listen inward, and trust what you already know. 💙Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WMfDf8x930c#Pausecast #OlympianMindset #Leadership #CareerGrowth #WomenInLeadership #Resilience #PowerOfPause #ExecutiveCoaching #TechLeadership #CareerTransitions #WomensSports #BreastCancerSurvivor #HighPerformanceLeadership

I share what it's like to go from overthinking to self-trust, and how to navigate career decisions with greater confidence.What happens when you've done everything "right" and still feel stuck?You've built a successful career. You've worked hard. You've checked the boxes. Yet when it comes to making your next big decision, whether it's a promotion, career transition, new opportunity, or simply admitting something isn't working anymore, clarity feels frustratingly out of reach.In this special episode, I sit down with Davis Nguyen from Career Coaching Secrets to explore one of the biggest challenges I see among high-achieving leaders: learning to trust yourself when the stakes feel high. I share my own journey from burnout during my years at Google, the wake-up call that led me to take a three-month unpaid leave, and why so many smart, capable leaders get trapped in analysis paralysis without even realizing it.We talk about the hidden cost of waiting for clarity, why confidence isn't something you magically find one day, and how learning to pause can help you reconnect with what you already know deep down.If you've been overthinking a decision, questioning your next move, or feeling caught between where you are and where you want to be, this conversation is for you.✨ A few moments you may want to jump to:⏱️ 9:00 — Why high achievers get stuck in analysis paralysis and what keeps us spinning when making important decisions.⏱️ 12:00 — A client story that illustrates an unexpected truth: sometimes the breakthrough isn't another strategy. It's giving yourself permission to pause.⏱️ 18:30 — Why commitment is a skill and how self-trust grows when we stop keeping one foot in and one foot out.⏱️ 24:00 — Why you don't need clarity before asking for support. In many cases, support is what helps create clarity.⏱️ 28:00 — Rethinking career success beyond titles, achievements, and external validation so you can define success on your own terms.💡 One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation:"My whole life changed because I took a chance on me."Many of us were taught that confidence comes from having the answer.I've found the opposite is often true.Confidence grows when we learn to trust ourselves enough to take the next step before we can see the entire path.And sometimes that begins with something surprisingly simple:A pause. Not as a luxury, but as a leadership skill.Sometimes the next step isn't another strategy. It's a conversation.If this episode resonated and you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about what's next, I'd love to help.Book a complimentary Career Clarity Call and let's uncover what's beneath the noise so you can move forward with greater confidence and self-trust.👉 https://calendly.com/rachaelomeara/30mins

 You may not be stuck, you may simply need more intention. What if your next career move isn’t a promotion… but a deeper alignment with what actually energizes you?In this episode 249 of The Pausecast, I sit down with longtime tech leader, and Google Director Monique Sanchez , and longtime x-DoubleClicker colleague of mine for a grounded, honest conversation on navigating career growth in today’s rapidly changing tech landscape.Monique has spent 18 years at Google (26+ years in digital overall), weathering everything from the dot-com boom and bust to AI disruption, layoffs, reorgs, and shifting market pressures.Her perspective is refreshingly real: you don’t always need to chase the next title or make a dramatic pivot to grow.Sometimes the most strategic move is learning how to grow where you’re planted. We explore: How to stay resilient and grounded amid the noise: reorgs, change, and AI uncertainty Why career growth isn’t always vertical (and why lateral moves matter) How to know when your work is no longer aligned with your strengths The importance of finding your “true north” and making decisions from clarity, not ego How leaders can stay relevant in the age of AI by learning just one hour a week One of my favorite moments? Monique shares this gem: “It’s not AI that will take your job. It’s the person using AI to amplify themselves.”If you’re a high-achieving leader feeling stuck, uncertain, or wondering what’s next in your career, this episode is a powerful reminder that not every chapter requires reinvention.Sometimes it requires a pause, a little perspective, and the courage to author your own narrative. 

What if the shift you desire isn’t about DOING more, but becoming more intentional about who you are BEING as you DO? ✨I got to sit down with former Disney animator, Hollywood producer, speaker, and host of Life of Awesome podcast, Saul Blinkoff, for a conversation on awe, purpose, and what it really means to wake up to your own life - all told in Saul's mesmerizing hollywood-esque narration using Disney movie themes, voices, and analogies. Ep. 248 is off the hook IMHO, and a must-listen for anyone who is feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or like life has become a blur of responsibilities and routines, this episode is your invitation to pause, look up, and remember what makes you feel fully alive. 💫So many of us are moving fast, checking boxes, and living in a constant state of mental noise. Saul shares why pause isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity.From his guided pause he kicks off with - based on his 25-year ritual of listening daily to the Gladiator soundtrack 🎶- to lessons from movies like The Lion King, and E.T. Saul offers a powerful reminder: life becomes more meaningful when we stop living on autopilot and start intentionally noticing what’s right in front of us.Together, we explore:✨ Why awe is a practice, not just a feeling✨ How music, frequency, and intentional rituals can shift your internal state✨ The difference between “dreaming” and "goals" and how to do both.✨ Why responsibility is actually one of the most empowering mindsets you can adopt✨ How small moments of presence, gratitude, and attention create a more meaningful life Podcast Chapters1:36 – Why Pause Isn’t a LuxurySaul opens with why busy minds need intentional pauses and introduces his relationship with pause.3:02 – The Gladiator Ritual: Music, Frequency & PresenceSaul shares his 25-year daily ritual of listening to the Gladiator soundtrack and how music shifts internal state.14:19 – From Resistance to Breakthrough: Drawing Mickey MouseLessons from Saul’s Disney workshop on creativity, discomfort, and unlocking hidden potential.18:13 – Rejection, Resilience & Chasing Disney DreamsSaul shares being rejected by Disney twice, the role of fear, and how Rudy changed his trajectory.36:49 – “Remember Who You Are” | The Lion King Lesson on Purpose & ResponsibilitySaul unpacks the deeper leadership lesson from The Lion King and why meaning matters more than happiness.Bonus final chapter:42:59 – Where to Find Saul + Final ReflectionsMy favorite moments:One of my favorite parts of this conversation is Saul’s reframing of what many leaders are actually craving.Not just happiness.Not another accomplishment.Meaning.Because happiness often depends on what’s happening around us.Meaning comes from how we choose to show up within it.Because awe isn’t reserved for mountaintops, sunsets, or vacations.It’s available in ordinary moments, too, if we’re paying attention.My favorite Saul quote:“The only way to tap into awe is to pause.” ✨That about sums up this pause-some awe-some Episode 248. Pause Song Credit: Honor Him, version from Mathias Fritsche, from The Gladiator score by Hans Zimmer.Watch Ep. 248 on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Yf0Lt2xM7fk

Networking shouldn’t feel like another task on your already full mental stack.And yet for many of us high-achieving leaders, it still does.Or worse, that dark cloudy dread sets in just thinking about it.Not because you don’t know how to do it…But because your energy is already stretched before you even walk into the room.Whether it’s a conference, a 1:1, or a virtual intro, the real shift isn’t about doing networking better.It’s about showing up differently.In this episode 247 of The Pausecast, I revisit one of the most practical frameworks I share with clients for making connection feel more natural, grounded, and actually effective.I break down:✨ A simple reset to ground your nervous system before you engage✨ The 3 key moments that shape every networking interaction (before, during, after)✨ How to stop over-efforting and start connecting from presence instead of performanceThis isn’t about being more polished.It’s about being more you, with less internal noise.Because the goal isn’t more conversations.It’s better energy in the ones that matter.If networking has felt heavy, dread-y or performative lately, you’re not alone, but it does require a new approach. Here's how to do it.

This one is for you as a high-achieving leader who’s doing everything right on paper…and still feels that quiet disconnect underneath.In this episode 246, I share a real client moment around presence and influence.Not the performative kind. The kind where you stop carrying the emotional weight of the room, stop shrinking or posturing… and start leading from grounded authority.Because here’s the truth no one says out loud in big tech:When you’re oscillating between feeling “not enough” and “too much,” your energy leaks, and others sense it. Now, you can start to shift that as we get into:🔎 Why even the most capable leaders drift from their “ideal self” (and how overwhelm plays a bigger role than you think)💪 What real personal agency looks like in high-stakes environments: without overcompensating or disappearing🛠 Simple, go-to tools to regulate your energy so your presence actually lands🚀 How to close the gap between who you are today and the leader your next role requires🌟 What it means to lead with clarity… even when the path ahead isn’t fully mapped outThis isn’t about becoming someone new.It’s about removing what’s been quietly getting in your way.If you’re navigating your next career move, or feeling that subtle “stuck but successful” tension… this one will hit.🎧 Tune in.

You’ve done everything “right.” Career milestones, promotions, accolades. And yet… something still feels off.In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to lead with purpose and stay resilient in tech without burning out. We explore why high performance alone doesn’t create fulfillment and how grounding yourself in clarity and presence changes everything. In This Episode:• What to do when your success no longer feels like enough• A more honest definition of resilience (that doesn’t require burnout)• Staying grounded and clear in a fast-moving, AI-driven industry• Balancing ambition with presence… without losing your edge• Why purpose is something you practice daily, not just something you findFinal Thoughts:If you’ve been running full speed but quietly questioning what it’s all for, this conversation is for you. It’s about recalibrating, reclaiming your center, and leading from a place that actually feels aligned.Resources & Links:⁠AI for Business⁠ : Wharton SchoolIshwar's site for free ebook via web site:⁠https://ishwarjoshi.com⁠ Ishawar on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ishwarjoshi/⁠Feeling ready to step out of overdrive and lead with clarity? Message me “ALIGN” on LinkedIn or reach out and let’s explore how to reclaim purpose without losing your momentum.

Nine years ago, Pause was a helpful idea when the book came out April 4, 2017.Today, it’s essential.In this pause-a-versary episode, I share what's different, and what's the same over the past 9 years pause has been in the wild. I reflect on what’s changed, and why the cost of staying in overdrive is not sustainable - esp. in our era of AI, 24x7, even the trendy 996 worklife.The point is, that works great. Until, it doesn't.The facts speak for themselves, from 2025:📉 82% of workers are at risk of burnout.🧠 Multitasking is lowering our IQ and increasing errors.📲 We’re processing up to 70,000 messages a day.This isn’t just about pace.It’s about what that pace is doing to your clarity, energy, and leadership.From my experience at Google to the leaders I coach today, I’m seeing the same pattern: high performance on the outside… disconnection underneath.And this is where pause becomes a skill.✨ Why pause matters more now than it did 9 years ago🧠 What’s happening in your brain when you’re stuck in overdrive⚡ The hidden cost of “always on”🌿 How intentional pause restores clarity and grounded confidenceInspired by Viktor Frankl (also the dedication/intro quote to Pause the book) , we come back to one truth:There is a space between stimulus and response.And in that space… is your power.But most leaders have lost access to it.In this episode, I share the TASER technique—a practical way to interrupt stress in real time—and explore how AI and constant input are accelerating the need for pause, not replacing it.If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, checked out, or stuck in constant motion, this is your invitation to recalibrate.Because your next level won’t come from doing more.It comes from knowing when—and how—to pause.If something in this conversation made you stop… don’t skip past it.That’s your signal.Pause will help you listen—and lead from a place that actually feels aligned.Get or gift the book - audio, print or digital.

In this Ep. 243, I sit down with Sharon Salzberg, renoun author and someone known for helping the western world "learn how to meditate." We unpack what “pause” really means in the business world. Not silence, not shutting your mind off, but learning how to meet your thoughts, your stress, your inner noise with clarity and presence.If slowing down feels uncomfortable, or even a little threatening, you’re not alone. This conversation will help you understand why, and show you a more grounded way in.We explore:• Why meditation isn’t about emptying your mind, it’s about changing your relationship to it• What’s actually underneath the discomfort of stillness, and how to move through it• How to create mutual relationships, and what happens when you truly see someone eye to eye• Simple ways to shift your perspective, interrupt autopilot, and reconnect to your energySharon brings decades of practice, along with insights from her book Real Love, to make this work feel accessible and real. Not perfect, not performative, but human.This episode is for you if you’ve been running on empty, questioning your next step, or quietly wondering if there’s another way to lead and live.Because the truth is, pause isn’t a luxury. It’s a skill. And it might be the one thing that changes everything.If this resonates, reach out. You don’t have to figure it out alone.About Sharon SalzbergSharon Salzberg is a meditation pioneer, world-renowned teacher, NY Times bestselling author of fourteen books, and co-founder of the Insight Meditation Society in Barre, Massachusetts. She is among the first to bring meditation to mainstream American culture over fifty years ago, inspiring generations of meditation teachers and wellness influencers. www.sharonsalzberg.comAbout Rachael O'Meara, Pausecast Host, Speaker and AuthorRachael O'Meara, MBA, MA, PCC helps high achieving leaders move beyond overwhelm and self-doubt to reclaim their confidence and make their next big career move. Her book Pause was a top business book for your career based on her burnout of Google, and she has been featured in the New York Times, WSJ.com, HBR and on the TEDx stage.

👉 It’s not just layoffs or AI—it’s an identity shift. If your role changed tomorrow… who would you be? 👀 It’s not just layoffs.It’s not even just AI.It’s the quiet question many high achieving leaders are sitting with right now:“If my role changes… or disappears… who am I?”In this episode, we go beyond surface-level career anxiety and into what’s really happening underneath...an identity shift.If you’ve been feeling unsettled, questioning your next move, or noticing yourself overworking, overthinking, or pulling back, chances are this episode will help you make sense of it.You’ll learn:Why this time in tech (er...maybe the entire planet!?) is triggering deeper identity questionsThe 3 uncomfortable truths about identity shifts (and why they feel so hard!) Why you can’t think your way through this and what actually helpsHow to navigate the “in-between” without losing confidenceSimple ways to ground your energy so you can take your next stepThis isn’t about having all the answers.It’s about learning how to move through uncertainty with more clarity, self-trust, and intention.If you’re in a moment of transition, chosen or not, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to rush your way through it.Watch on YouTube.Next Steps & Support:DM me “identity” for tools to support you.Or reach out if you’re navigating a transition and want deeper 1:1 support.

"Where do you prioritize, ruthlessly prioritize, and where do you focus your time and your energy? It's about investing in meaningful relationships and creating balance." - Alyssa Stein, Sr. Director, CiscoIn this episode, VIP guest Alyssa Stein, Senior Director at Cisco, shares a rare, grounded look at what it actually takes to step into a new leadership role with confidence, clarity, and influence.When you switch roles, it’s not about proving yourself fast—it’s about leading wisely from day one. ⏸️ 💼After 15 years at Google, Alyssa made a major transition—becoming “new again” at a senior level. She opens up about how she approached this shift intentionally: setting boundaries early, prioritizing what truly mattered, and resisting the pressure to over perform or over explain.Alyssa also reflects on some of her most defining leadership moments—leading through layoffs with compassion, hosting a global leadership offsite in Cleveland, and doubling down on culture and relationships during uncertain times. Her perspective is steady, human, and deeply earned.Throughout the conversation, Alyssa shares practical wisdom on:How to ruthlessly prioritize when everything feels importantWhy boundaries are a leadership strength—not a liabilityHow to stay confident and influential without burning yourself outAnd how to remember that you are more than your job, even in high-stakes rolesKey Moments00:15 - Alyssa's proudest career moment02:17 - Building culture through people and the importance of reconnecting03:48 - Challenging moments: navigating layoffs with compassion and support05:27 - The power of pause: reflecting in turbulent times06:48 - Resilience after burnout and the importance of grit08:20 - Alyssa’s "one simple thing" for maintaining work-life balance: family routines09:43 - Modeling kindness and empathy at home and in leadership13:24 - The value of ruthlessly prioritizing and setting boundaries16:20 - Navigating new roles and the learning curve in large organizations20:23 - Building relationships in remote and startup environments22:52 - Practical advice for visibility in fast-paced workplaces23:22 - Guidance for feeling stuck or stagnant: taking one step at a time24:37 - Closing thoughts and commitments to personal and professional developmentLINKS⁠⁠Alyssa Stein - LinkedIn⁠⁠ — Connect with Alyssa for leadership insights⁠Rachael's book: Pause⁠ — The concept Alyssa references for reflection and resilienceIf you’re stepping into a new tech leadership role—or quietly questioning how to lead with more confidence and less self-pressure—Alyssa’s story will resonate deeply. 🌿

What if you managed your career, energy, and life the same way elite engineers manage mission-critical systems?In Ep 240 of The Pausecast, I chat with Jennifer Petoff, a former PhD chemist turned SRE leader at Google, to explore how Site Reliability Engineering principles can radically change how you work—and live.This is a must-listen for anyone in tech who feels stretched thin, quietly burnt out, or craving a more intentional way to lead without stepping off the fast track. ⚡🧠Jennifer shares how she applied SRE concepts like capacity planning, load shedding, blameless learning, and North Star decision-making to her own career—and why treating your life like a system isn’t cold or rigid, but deeply human and freeing.We talk about designing a career that’s sustainable, values-aligned, and resilient—especially in fast-moving tech environments where “just push harder” is the default.If you want to lead with clarity (not chaos), this conversation will land. 🌊💙Highlights You Don’t Want to Miss5:02 - Celebrating the success of the Google SRE book and its industry influence10:20 - The significance of capacity planning and load shedding in life11:44 - Using technical strategies to set boundaries and manage workload15:48 — Why your career deserves the same systems thinking as production code16:00 — Defining your North Star when every opportunity looks “good on paper”17:16 — How blameless learning unlocks confidence, growth, and better decisionsThemesFrom PhD chemist → SRE leader: Jennifer’s unconventional pathUsing SRE principles to prevent burnout (before it happens)Capacity planning + load shedding as real-life leadership skillsWhy blameless postmortems build stronger teams and stronger humansDesigning work around life—not the other way aroundInvesting in yourself through thoughtful risk-taking and thought leadershipIf you’re in tech and craving a smarter, calmer, more intentional way to lead—this episode is for you.And if this resonates, share it with a colleague who’s carrying too much quietly. That’s how culture shifts start. 💬✨MORE INFO LINKS:Site Reliability Engineering (SRE) Book — Free downloadable PDFConnect with Jennifer Petoff LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jenniferpetoffJennifer's website, The Reliable PgM: https://www.reliablepgm.com/Getting Things Done by David Allen — Methodology for workload and task management

Ever feel like your career is moving fast, but your energy and focus aren’t keeping up? What if the secret to leading at your best isn’t doing more, but resetting smarter?In episode 239 of The Pausecast, I talk with Kate Eckman, executive coach, performance expert, and author of The Full Spirit Workout, about practical strategies to boost energy, focus, and resilience—without adding more hours to your day.Experience a leadership-focused pause led by Kate to reset energy Kate’s journey and the methodology behind The Full Spirit WorkoutHow small “energy lifts” (endorphins without exercise) can improve focus and decision-making Why savoring wins and moments is critical for sustained performanceKate’s favorite gratitude exercise for boosting mindset and resilience Actionable ways to start your Full Spirit Workout todayHow Kate maintains her own high-performance edgeRethinking sleep and recovery as tools for leadership excellence Why you Need to Know Kate:Kate is a Columbia-certified executive coach, performance strategist, and leadership mentor. She draws on neuroscience, positive psychology, and whole-person coaching to equip high-achieving leaders in tech with tools to manage energy, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and impact.Explore more of her work and her book at: kateeckman.tv

In The Pausecast Ep. 235, Rachael O’Meara sits down with tech entrepreneur Sandra Ma for a refreshingly honest conversation about career reinvention, leaving big tech, leadership, and joy at work.Sandra shares her journey from starting out in finance, to MTV, to Google, to co-founding Jovial, a startup dedicated to helping teams build more human, joyful, and impactful workplace cultures. Together, Rachael and Sandra explore what happens when external success no longer feels like enough—and the inner nudges that signal it’s time for something more.This episode is for leaders who are doing “all the right things,” yet quietly wondering if there’s another way to work, lead, and live. You’ll hear candid reflections on investing in yourself, navigating uncertainty, breaking free from autopilot, and remembering that—sometimes—it’s really not that serious.A grounding, perspective-shifting conversation for anyone craving more meaning, joy, and agency in their career journey.Pause-worthy moments:It’s okay to still be figuring out who you’re becoming—even at the top of your gameWanting more impact doesn’t mean something is wrong—it means you’re evolvingJoyful, human-centered workplaces are possible—and necessaryThe interview process is as much for you as it is for the employerEntrepreneurship can be the fastest personal growth accelerator there isPerspective is leadership: we often forget to zoom outWork matters—but your whole life matters moreStandout sound bites:“I’m still figuring out what I want to be.”“We get so caught up in our own lives.”“It’s not that serious.”Episode Chapters00:00 – Introduction & Sandra’s background03:14 – From corporate success to startup curiosity06:09 – Founding Jovial and reimagining workplace culture08:45 – Navigating uncertainty, mistakes, and growth11:35 – Investing in yourself through coaching and inner work14:09 – What success looks like now16:45 – Finding balance and perspective in a busy world19:36 – Final reflections on joy, impact, and leadership

The path from humble beginnings to tech leadership isn’t linear—and it’s rarely just about working harder. In this honest conversation, I sit down with Chelsea Wierbonski, a 20+ year seasoned product leader and coach in big tech, to unpack the inner work required to lead with clarity when the pace is relentless and the pressure is real.Chelsea opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, chronic self-doubt, and the invisible stories many high-achievers carry—especially in fast-moving tech environments. We talk about what happens when success looks good on the outside, but doesn’t feel aligned on the inside—and how to close that gap.You’ll hear how Chelsea shifted from scarcity and over-efforting into grounded self-trust, using practical tools like nervous system regulation, mindset work, breathwork, meditation, and understanding how the brain actually rewires patterns of fear and self-protection.This episode is for leaders who are ready to stop muscling through and start leading from a place of clarity, confidence, and internal safety—without waiting for burnout to force the change.If you’re quietly thinking about your next chapter, questioning your path, or feeling like your potential is capped by old patterns—this conversation offers a grounded, real-world way forward.Key ThemesWhy high performers still struggle with self-doubtThe inner work behind sustainable confidence in tech leadershipHow scarcity mindset shows up at work (and how to shift it)Nervous system regulation protocols for high-pressure environmentsRewiring subconscious beliefs to support your next career moveCreating aligned change without burning out🎧 Listen in to learn how to move from “I’m stuck” to “I trust myself to choose what’s next.”Connect with Chealsea on Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chealsea/

What if doing meaningful work isn’t enough—you also have to know how to advocate for it?In this episode of The Pausecast, I sit down with my former colleague Liz Heaney, a leader in big tech, for a powerful career conversation about impact, visibility, and resilience inside complex corporate systems.Liz shares what it’s really like to champion accessibility in big tech—the work she does and is so passionate about. Her work is deeply meaningful, emotionally driven, and is not always easy to move forward in fast-paced, results-oriented environments. We talk candidly about navigating politics without losing your values, learning when to push and when to align, and why career growth often depends as much on how you advocate as what you’re advocating for.This episode is for leaders who care deeply about their work, want to make a difference, and are learning how to balance passion with strategy—especially inside large organizations.In this Episode we discuss...Why accessibility (and mission-driven work) requires both heart and influenceHow to increase visibility for your work and your teamThe career cost of pushing too hard—and the growth that comes from recalibratingWhy failure is often data, not defeatHow being kinder to yourself can actually strengthen your leadershipIf you’ve ever felt torn between staying true to your values and playing the corporate game, this conversation will feel both grounding and validating—and offer a wiser way forward.You can find Liz on LinkedIn at : https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizheaney/ #Leadership #CareerGrowth #BigTech #ThePausecast #Accessibility #ExecutivePresence

What if you didn’t have to wait for your job to change… to feel better at work? 😌This week on The Pausecast VIP, I’m joined by the legendary Marci Shimoff—#1 NYT bestselling author of Happy for No Reason and a global thought leader in personal development.I met Marci a while back at a women's business conference where she spoke, and I fell madly in love with her (and her concepts lol). I couldn't wait to host her and help amplify her message knowing pausing plays a big part in cultivating and sustaining happiness.If you’re successful on paper but quietly tired, stretched, or wondering “Is this it?”—this career-meets-inner-work conversation is for you. Marci shares practical, science-backed ways to create happiness from the inside out—so your leadership gets lighter, clearer, and more fulfilling. ✨In this episode, we explore:A simple 2x2x2 pause you can use before tough meetings 🧠How to activate your body’s “feel-good” chemistry (hello, oxytocin 💛)Why heart rate variability (HRV) matters for performance + resilienceThe daily question that upgrades your well-beingMarci’s “rooms of happiness” framework (think: building a house for your joy 🏠)What you can—and can’t—control when it comes to fulfillment at workThis isn’t “be positive” advice.It’s grounded wisdom for leaders navigating growth, pressure, and what’s next—without burning out. 🔥👉 Subscribe to The Pausecast so you don’t miss these leadership conversations.Ready to feel more fulfilled at work and navigate your next level of leadership? 👉 Book a call with me and let’s explore how to bring “happy for no reason” into your leadership—on your terms.#ThePausecast #TechLeadership #PersonalGrowth #FulfillmentAtWork #InnerWorkMeetsLeadership #PauseToLead

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.

In Ep. 233 of The Pausecast, I sit down with my former big tech colleague Ada Lau and we explore her journey from aspiring journalist to successful big tech leader. Ada shares how she built a career bridging technology and people, and the lessons she’s learned leading high-performing teams in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment, and the challenges that she also overcame.We dive into the joys and challenges of tech leadership, including building team dynamics, fostering collaboration, and navigating AI and enterprise-scale change. Ada also shares candid insights on professional growth, work-life balance, and the power of pausing to reflect, make better decisions, and maintain resilience.Maybe you can relate if you're also riding the tech waves these days.Key Takeaways:Transitioning to tech allowed Ada to combine logic, problem-solving, and her love of people.Strong team dynamics and collaboration are essential for sustainable success.Embracing mistakes fuels learning, creativity, and resilience.Work-life balance is an ongoing challenge—but intentional pauses help.True success can be measured by happiness, not just achievements.Whether you’re leading in tech or navigating constant change, Ada’s story is a masterclass in adaptability, authentic leadership, and finding joy along the way.🎧 Listen now and discover how to lead with confidence, clarity, and happiness.

Yes, you read that right—AI read my book Pause and pulled out the gold.In this special episode, I share the AI Audio 17 minute synopsis by two completely digital voices as they have coffee chat about the book Pause: Harnessing the Life-Changing Power of Giving Yourself a Break - from Google’s new NotebookLM.The results? Pretty surreal. Surprising. Spot-on. Pause-worthy!Whether you're an AI enthusiast or just need a real reason to stop spinning in overdrive, this episode gives you:🧘 The timeless leadership lessons from Pause, now filtered through Google’s AI🧠 Why pausing isn’t lazy—it’s neuroscience-backed clarity⚡️ How this book still hits, 7 years later, in the middle of our always-on tech culture🔄 Real-life reset tools you can apply today to lead, think, and feel betterIt was a lot of fun to upload the book and get this back in return in a matter of minutes - truly AMAZING and frankly, a lot of fun to listen to!If you love pausing, AI, leadership, and coffee talk about self-mastery—please check this out between the male and female vapors of Pause. :) 📘 Grab the book that started it all: Pause: Harness the Life-Changing Power of Giving Yourself a Break → https://www.amazon.com/Pause-Harnessing-Life-Changing-Giving-Yourself/dp/0143129244 💡 Sometimes the smartest thing you can do… is pause...and not gush because something seems so cool - this was such a trip to listen to - what do you think?!#AIforleaders #pausebook #powerofpause #executivecoaching #resilientleadership #notebookLM #googleai #innerwork

How emotional intelligence, unfinished business, and pausing unlock real confidence.As we kick off another new year, this episode is an invitation to slow down—and lead differently.Why listen now:Start 2026 with more self-trust, emotional clarity, and leadership ease—without working harder or pushing through.In this special re-release, I’m joined by my leadership mentor, Dr. Bob Wright, one of the most influential thinkers in human development and emotional intelligence. This conversation goes beneath strategy, performance, and productivity—and into the inner work that quietly shapes how you show up as a leader.If you’re a high-achieving leader who’s successful on paper but still feels tension, self-doubt, or emotional reactivity under pressure, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do about it.Together, we explore how emotional intelligence, pausing, and awareness of your “unfinished business” can radically shift how you lead, decide, and relate in the new year.In this episode, we cover:Why emotional intelligence is the foundation for sustainable leadership—not a soft skillWhat “unfinished business” really is, and how it quietly drives stress, overwork, and self-doubtThe five primary emotions—why they matter, and how working with them creates more ease and pleasureHow projections and transferences show up at work (especially in high-stakes environments)Why pausing is essential when emotions are high and decisions matterHow leaders unconsciously decide whether they do or don’t matterAn introduction to the Wright Transformational Developmental Model and the six levels of emotional and leadership developmentThis episode is not about fixing yourself.It’s about understanding yourself—so you can lead with clarity, presence, and internal authority in 2026 and beyond.Dr. Bob Wright is a globally recognized leader in human development and emotional intelligence. He is the co-founder of LiveWright and former cofounder and Professor of Transformational Leadership at Wright Graduate University.Named by Crain’s Chicago Business as one of the nation’s top executive coaches, Dr. Wright has spent decades helping leaders understand the emotional and developmental patterns that shape their lives and leadership.This Model of Human Growth and Development—considered one of the most comprehensive models of its kind—translates deep theory into practical, everyday leadership awareness, and continues to influence coaches, executives, and organizations worldwide.

It’s a wrap! ❤️HAPPY… NEW… YEAR!! 🎉🎉🎉The new year is your fresh canvas — a moment to breathe, reset, and choose how you want to lead yourself forward. This episode helps you pause with intention so you can set the tone for a powerful and purposeful 2026.(And yes… you can do this any time of year — but year-end adds a natural energetic shift that helps your system integrate and realign.)Here’s what we’ll dive into:✨ Clear the Slate — Reflect on the lessons, wins, and challenges of the past year so you can release what no longer supports your energy or leadership.✨ Create Your Future Roadmap — A simple, grounding flow to craft your 2026 vision, goals, and guiding word without overwhelm.✨ Mindful Celebration — Meaningful ways to ring in the year with intention — whether with your team, your loved ones, or quietly with yourself. This episode will leave you feeling centered, confident, and ready to step into the new year with clarity and heart. 💛Tune in and make your #NewYearsEve a moment of meaningful pause.#Leadership #EmotionalIntelligence #MindfulNewYear #NewYearReflection #PowerOfPause #Pausecast

In Ep. 178 of The Pausecast...OMG it's Christmas Week - a time to slow down, connect, and reflect. But as leaders, how do we truly embrace the moment and share that sense of presence with others? In this special holiday seasonal episode of The Pausecast, we’ll unwrap the keys to leading with heart and intention this holiday season.Here’s what we’ll explore:The Art of Presence: How to be fully engaged with loved ones, your team, and yourself during the holidays.Reflect and Recharge: Rachael's guided pause to close out the year with gratitude and clarity.Stories of Connection: Hear how Boxing Day is coming back to Rachael's family. What's your inspiring holiday tradition or story to remember or bring out joy, connecting, and reflection?I invite you to listen to this episode and pause as we embrace the moment and step into the last week of 2025.🌟 Celebrate. Reflect. Lead with love!Happy Holidays, beautiful loving leaders!

What if this year, you could step into the holidays with calm, clarity, and joy? Join me, Rachael, for this special holiday episode of The Pausecast, where we’ll explore practical and mindful ways to navigate the season stress-free.Here’s what we’ll cover: 🌀 Design Your Vision for the New Year Meet your future self in Rachael's Guided PauseChoose your guiding word or theme for next year to anchor your goals and aspirations. ✨ Embrace the Wonder of the Holidays Discover how pausing to savor the magic of the season can benefit you and positively impact those around you. Practical tips to stay present and soak in moments of connection and joy. ⚡ Sidestep Common Holiday Pitfalls Learn how to avoid energy-draining drama and shift away from a fixed mindset. Strategies for bringing more playfulness into your holiday traditions to naturally boost learning and enjoyment. 🌟 The Gratitude Advantage Explore how cultivating gratitude can amplify your sense of joy, wonder, and productivity both during the holidays and beyond.This episode is your invitation to lead yourself and those around you with more ease, presence, and intention this holiday season. Tune in to Episode 177 of The Pausecast and let’s create a season that energizes, rather than depletes, you.

Ahhh, it's breathing time, YAY! Join me for this moment to realign and get back to your optimal being (and thinking using the guided technique below.Your Go-To Reset to Realign + Believe in Yourself ✨In this short but powerful 10 minute Pausecast episode, you’ll join me for an integrative breathwork session designed to gently regulate your nervous system, calm your mind, and bring you back into alignment. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck in overthinking, or craving a reset — this one’s for you. 🌿💗🌬️ A simple 3-part Tri-Active BreathI’ll walk you through one of the most powerful breath patterns for clearing mental clutter, releasing stress, and reconnecting to yourself. It’s easy, grounding, and you can use it anytime you need clarity or confidence.💆‍♀️ A shift from “to-do mode” into “to-be mode”You’ll feel your system soften as you move out of mental overload and back into presence — the place where real confidence and self-trust live.⚡ A 5-minute guided resetThis practice helps you realign with your natural energy, access inner steadiness, and remember what it feels like to trust yourself again.💛 Your go-to moment of beliefUse this session anytime you need a quick emotional reset, a boost of self-belief, or a reminder that you can handle what’s in front of you — even if it doesn’t feel clear yet.If you want a refresher on all the benefits of a quick breathwork practice, you can check out the list below 👇https://www.healthline.com/health/breathwork

🎧 In Episode 227, you’ll discover...This one’s a gift to your future self.If you’ve been sprinting through Q4 feeling stretched, scattered, or secretly wondering, “Is it just me?” — this episode is your pause, your reset, and your reminder that your brain is far more trainable than your stress would have you believe.And you’re learning from the best.Dr. Richard Davidson — world-renowned neuroscientist, founder of the Center for Healthy Minds, TIME 100 honoree, and co-author of Altered Traits — joins us to break down the science of attention, compassion, and resilience in a way every high-achieving tech leader in the digital economy needs right now.This episode feels like a masterclass + warm hug + brain upgrade all in one. 🍂✨💛 A beautiful Loving-Kindness guided pause from Dr. Davidson himself🧠 How attention training literally reshapes your brain structure🤝 What the latest research reveals about compassion practices⏱️ The ideal length to meditate (yes… shorter than you think)🌱 What to do if you “don’t meditate” but crave real change🔄 How meditation rewires emotional patterns + boosts resilience🪞 Dr. Davidson’s own pause + transformation practices📲 The four scientific pillars of well-being — and the app that helps you cultivate them🙌 The (surprisingly high!) percentage of Americans who meditate weeklyWhy you need to know Dr. Davidson: One of the most influential voices in the science of well-being:William James & Vilas Research Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry at UW–MadisonFounder & Director — Center for Healthy MindsPhD in Psychology from HarvardAuthor of 400+ scientific articles and 14 booksCo-author of Altered Traits with Daniel GolemanNamed to TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential PeopleElected to the National Academy of MedicineAdvisor to the World Economic Forum and UNESCOLeading global researcher on the neural basis of emotion, meditation, and human flourishing#LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #TechLeadership #DigitalEconomy #MindfulnessAtWork #Pausecast #Neuroscience #ResilientLeadership #WomenInTech #HighAchievers #CenterofHealthyMinds #drricharddavidson

If you're a high-achieving leader who’s already mentally drafting Q1 OKRs between bites of pumpkin pie… this episode is your invitation to pause - in service to all your doing! Because here’s the truth: you are more productive, more grounded, and way more inspiring when you unplug from work and plug into gratitude.Yep. Gratitude isn’t fluffy. It’s a performance enhancer.Research shows that practicing gratitude at work can make you up to 50% more productive—and just 3 minutes a day for 14 days rewires your brain toward joy, ease, and emotional resilience. (Take that, endless Slack pings.)In this Thanksgiving-week Pausecast, we explore:Why gratitude is a secret leadership edge—not just a holiday hashtag.Wildly compelling stats on how gratitude impacts your brain, energy, and leadership presence.Simple gratitude practices you can integrate during a season that’s supposed to be warm and meaningful… but often feels like a sprint.How gratitude helps you thrive (especially when work is intense or life feels “a lot”).Your personalized Gratitude Pause Plan—so you leave with something you can use immediately.If you’re craving more ease, more grounding, and a holiday season that feels like connection instead of another item on your to-do list… you’ll love this one. 🧡#ThanksgivingWeek#GratitudeSeason#HolidayWellbeing#ThankfulLeader#Techleaders

"We can’t see the forest from inside it. Strategic pauses create the distance required for clarity." — Rachael O’MearaI just released a new episode of the podcast, and it’s a personal one. I’m sharing a few unexpected leadership lessons from my recent trip to Thailand—especially from the Lantern Festival, where thousands of glowing lanterns lifted into the night sky.It reminded me how much leaders need moments of wonder to stay inspired… and how easy it is to forget that when we’re deep in deadlines and decisions.In this episode, I talk about:– Why beauty and play actually fuel clarity and creativity– How adaptability becomes a superpower when things don’t go as planned– What gentle strength (thank you, elephants) can teach us about grounded confidence– Why collaborating with strangers can open up new possibilities– And the one thing every tech leader needs more of right now: strategic pausingIf you’ve been feeling stretched thin, reactive, or low on inspiration lately, I think this one will feel grounding.Why you need to know Rachael O'MearaRachael O’Meara is an author, TEDx speaker, executive coach, and host of The Pausecast. She helps high-achieving tech leaders move beyond overwhelm and self-doubt to reclaim confidence, energy, and clarity—so they can lead with purpose on their terms for what's next.

What if curiosity was your greatest leadership skill?In this inspiring episode, Rachael sits down with Aidan Booth, Director at one of the big techs, to explore how curiosity, reflection, and joy shape powerful, authentic leadership.💡 Aidan opens up about his career journey — from the lessons learned through failure to the boundaries he’s set to protect his energy and well-being. He shares how staying curious helps him grow, lead with empathy, and pay it forward to those coming up behind him.🔥 Whether you’re navigating a big decision, leading through change, or simply ready to feel more confident in your leadership — this episode reminds you that your only real competition is who you were yesterday.✨ Key Takeaways:Curiosity is your secret weapon for growth and clarity.Self-reflection strengthens confidence and presence.Boundaries protect your energy — and your joy.Failure isn’t the end — it’s how you evolve.Paying it forward expands what’s possible for everyone.🎙 Favorite Sound Bites:“I want to earn it each and every day.”“I try to be fully present and engaged.”“Pay it forward — 10X, like 100X.”To connect with Aidan, you can find him on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aidan-booth-37199a8/

High-achieving leaders know how to perform. But do they know how to pause?In this episode, I sit down with my dear friend Ariane de Bonvoisin — former management consultant, Tony Robbins coach, TED speaker, and now author of the Giggles and Joy children’s book trilogy — to explore what it really means to bring mindfulness into leadership (and life). Ariane and I go waayy back to when I hosted her at Google, which we chat about this in the episode. 💡 We talk about:✨ The difference between a work pause and a personal pause — and why both are vital for growth.✨ How children embody mindfulness and joy — naturally.✨ Simple ways to bring more calm and connection into your day.✨ How to name your non-negotiable pause.🎧 Listen now to learn how mindfulness can make you a more grounded, emotionally intelligent leader — one who leads from presence, not pressure.Ariane writes, coaches and speaks frequently on issues of personal and professional change, happiness and inspiration, entrepreneurship, women in the workplace, parenting and the topic of mindful living and wellness in business. Her ‘9 Principles of Change’ Workshop has become a cornerstone of her teachings and has received rave reviews. Learn more at https://www.arianedebonvoisin.com/

Landing a new role can feel like a win...and a test of your values.In this energizing convo, Alex Phillips shares what it’s really like to take a bold leap—moving his family across the world for a leadership role in big tech —and how he learned to redefine success from the inside out.We talk about boundaries, burnout prevention, and the art of staying human in a world that emphasizes “always on.” 🌏💼🔑 Key Takeaways 02:07 – Big Moves, Bigger Lessons: The reality of relocating a family and leading through uncertainty.05:00 – Boundaries = Freedom: Why asking for what you need and saying no are leadership superpowers.07:41 – Invest in Your Edge: How personal development fuels your confidence and clarity.09:15 – From Chaos to Clarity: How Alex creates calm routines for anchors in leadership.12:59 – Health Is Non-Negotiable: Why energy management—not time management—is the true edge.15:10 – Feeling Stuck? Use the quiet seasons to retool, refocus, and rise stronger.My Favorite Soundbites:“Don’t be afraid to say no.”“Your job is never finished.”“Ownership is super critical.”Who should listen: high-achieving leaders navigating growth, transition, or a new chapter. If you’re craving more clarity, calm, and confidence—this episode will help you reset your mindset and rise stronger.#techleaders #leadershipinaction #pausecast #emotionalintellignece #confidentleaders

Ever feel like you’re doing all the right things but still not quite in your flow? In Ep. 221 of The Pausecast, Rachael sits down with her former and inspiring teammate tech leader + mentor Rich Berta to explore what it really takes to get into your groove — and stay there — especially when the ground is constantly shifting.Rich shares how he’s navigated bold career moves, built teams across continents, and found meaning through mentoring others. 💡 Together, we dive into how curiosity, alignment, and intentional pauses can help you lead (and live) from a place of grounded confidence — even in uncertain times.💡 Key Takeaways:(2:10) How to recognize when you’re stuck in “push mode” instead of true flow(6:40) Why getting your groove back isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing differently(10:15) The small daily practice that reconnects you to your energy and purpose(14:45) The role of self-compassion when you’re rebuilding confidence(18:05) How to re-enter your next chapter with clarity and calm🎯 Who should listen: If you’re a high-achieving leader who’s lost your spark and ready to feel clear, confident, and in your groove again — this conversation will remind you it’s not too late to realign and rise.

In this episode of The Pausecast...💡 Discover how conscious breath creates heart coherence—a science-backed state that enhances focus, intuition, and emotional regulation under pressure.🧘‍♀️ Practice an integrative breathwork session to find your own rhythm of coherence.💬 Learn how to tune into your “heart brain” and unlock intuitive decision-making with two powerful reflection questions.✨ Pro tip: Before you begin, think of someone or something you’re grateful for. Visualize it, then start breathing—gratitude accelerates coherence and calm.Want to explore the science behind breathwork? Check out this 11 minute primer I made: Listen here → https://youtu.be/pVxWNcC63zo

Here’s what you’ll discover in Ep. 219👇🌱 Why humans are “meaning-making machines” (and how that can help or hurt you)🎡 The SmartTribe ⁠⁠Emotional Wheel⁠⁠ —a game-changer for navigating feelings (graphic linked!) 📊 The surprising % of people who actually know what they’re feeling in the moment❓ The 3 transformative questions to ask yourself if you want a new outcome🐾 What a “critter state” is, how to get out of it, and exactly how long to stay there🌀 The 4 stages of consciousness (⁠view graphic) and how to move through them.🌳 How nature can reset your nervous system and open your perspective💫 Christine’s secret to life (you’ll want to hear this one!)This episode is part science, part soul—and all about giving you tools to feel more grounded, clear, and confident in your next move. ✨🎧 Tune in now—you’ll leave with a breath of fresh air + a powerful reset.About Christine ComafordBill Gates calls her “super high bandwidth.”For over 30 years Leadership and Culture Coach, Serial Entrepreneur, and New York Times bestselling author Christine Comaford has helped leaders navigate growth and change. Christine is sought after for providing proven strategies to shift executive behavior to create more positive outcomes, enroll and align teams in times of change, profoundly increase sales, product offerings, and company value. Her coaching, consulting and strategies have created hundreds of billions of dollars in new revenue and company value for her clients. The potent neuroscience techniques she teaches are easy to learn and immediately applicable to help leaders see into their blind spots, expand their vision, and more effectively influence outcomes.About Rachael O'MearaRachael O'Meara, MBA, MA, PCC helps high achieving leaders move beyond overwhelm and self-doubt to reclaim their confidence and make their next big career move. Her book Pause was a top business book for your career based on her burnout of Google, and she has been featured in the New York Times, WSJ.com, HBR and on the TEDx stage.

Feeling pulled in a million directions while working remote, hybrid, or even in-office? Boundaries can get flimsy, leaving you drained, stressed, and stretched too thin.In Ep. 218 of the Pausecast, I share a 3-step process to firm up your boundaries — so you can reclaim your time, energy, and focus.The 3 steps to stronger boundaries we'll walk through:1️⃣ Be aware — notice where your boundaries feel weak2️⃣ Claim your choice — recognize you have the power to change them3️⃣ Change the system — shift your environment, routines, or expectations to support your new boundariesEven small changes can transform how you show up at work and in life.Your turn: What boundaries are you celebrating? Which could use a little more firming up? Need help creating or strengthening boundaries? Let’s talk. Send me a message and I’ll reply with your next step.✨ Here’s to leading boldly without being pulled every which way.#boundaries #wfh #leadershipdevelopment

In Ep. 217 of the Pausecast...🔹 The #1 thing to do the moment frustration hits🔹 How to move the relationship forward even when things feel stuck🔹 Why passive-aggressive behavior costs you credibility (and what to do instead)🔹 Practical steps to stay calm, approach your manager with clarity, and set better boundaries🔹 The leadership skills you must lean on — intention, truth, and vulnerability — to resolve conflict without losing yourselfI learned this the hard way. After burning out at Google, I had to rebuild how I handled my emotions - not just at work but everywhere — and now I teach my fellow leaders how they can do it to, and avoid the mistakes I learned the hard way. If you are seeking clarity on what's next for you and/or how to get there and make your next career move, you needx to know about the Confident Tech Exec Mastermind, now accepting applicants! https://www.rachaelomeara.com/courseYou can’t always control what happens at work. But you can control how you respond. 👍

What Stress? :XStress usually comes from holding onto fear, anger, sadness, or hurt — and not letting ourselves fully experience or process it.Instead, we often turn to our devices, numb out, and avoid what’s really going on. The result? Feeling tense, drained, and disconnected from ourselves. Does this sound familiar?In Ep. 216 we cover...💡 What really causes stress (hint: it’s not just deadlines)💡 How to mitigate stress by addressing the root cause💡 How your body can help you process stress — instead of making it worse💡 Daily “pause experiments” to shift out of stress patterns - listening to this definitely counts and is a great start. I know how it feels — I burned out at Google and had no idea how to de-stress. Now, I teach leaders how to prevent burnout and handle stress before it takes over — using my Confident Tech Exec Method.Whether it’s leading yourself through tough times or leading others with clarity and calm, these techniques work — supported by yours truly you every step of the way.Message me "de-stress" and I"ll share some tools for you to try - there is so much support here for you - from classes to coaching to tools - you decide what's best!#podcast #destress #leadershipstress #stresstools #pausecast

Are you leading your team (or yourself for that matter)… or just managing? 🤔In this episode, we dive into the real differences between managing tasks and leading people—and why learning to lead with clarity, confidence, and emotional intelligence is what sets the most effective tech leaders apart.Inside, we’ll cover:The key traits that distinguish great leaders from great managersHow to spot when you’re stuck in “manager mode” (and what to do about it)Why both roles matter—and how to intentionally step into leadership when it countsPractical shifts you can make today to inspire your team, be more visionary, and reduce overwhelmIf you’re feeling pulled in a million directions and want to lead with more impact, presence, and confidence—without burning out—this episode is for you.I’d love to hear what resonates most for you after you listen. Message me and share your takeaways—I read every note personally. 💬Want more support to rise into your next level of leadership? Learn about the Confident Tech Exec Mastermind - now open for enrollment. https://www.rachaelomeara.com/course

Why Emotional Intelligence Isn’t Just Personal—It’s Team-Based. 👥🔥You don’t need another personality assessment or trust fall.You need the right team norms that foster collective emotional intelligence.In this 🔥 conversation with Dr. Vanessa Druskat—renowned researcher and author of The Emotionally Intelligent Team—we explore what makes teams thrive beyond individual EQ. If you're leading a team and feel like something’s missing, this might be it.🤔 Team-reflection pause led by Vanessa (2:11)📊 Rachael's real world example of a emotionally intelligent team from her Google days (4:28)🌱 Environment > Individual EQ (11:47)🚩 Scapegoats as Valuable Signals (17:49)🔺 3 Pillars of Emotionally Intelligent Teams (21:52)❤️ The Case for Belonging (27:42)🧠 Emotion > IQ in Collective Intelligence (33:57)⚡ The Tipping Point for Team EQ (38:52)🔁 Examine Routines—Not Scapegoats (44:21)💡 If you’re building, leading, or reshaping a team, this episode will give you the tools to unlock more trust, psychological safety, and sustainable performance.🎧 Listen now + tag a colleague who needs this - and BUY THIS BOOK 👇👇 🔗 More from Vanessa, including her book, assessments and handouts at vanessadruskat.com#emotionalintelligence #changemanagement #managingteams #teameq #pausecast #thoughtleaders #UNH

In this episode of The Pausecast, we’re continuing the conversation from Ep. 212 and taking it a step further. You’ll learn practical tools to untangle your identity from your job, reclaim your energy, and redefine success on your terms.Here’s what we cover:🔹 Why over-identification leads to stress, burnout, and identity confusion🔹 Powerful language shifts to separate who you are from what you do🔹 Micro-practices to reconnect with your values, not just your title🔹 Simple rituals & mantras (including breathwork + journaling prompts)🔹 How to create a new paradigm of success based on alignment, energy, and clarityThis is your invitation to pause, reflect, and start creating a version of success that actually feels good. 🌿 👉 Ready to go deeper?If you’re a high-achieving tech leader who wants more clarity, confidence, and personal energy in your next career chapter, my new group program — The Confident Tech Exec Mastermind — was designed for you.  Learn more + apply here → www.rachaelomeara.com/course

You know you’re more than your job… but why does it feel so hard to actually believe it? 🤯 In this first of a 2-part series, we get into the messy truth of why our self-worth gets so tangled up with career success—and why even the most capable leaders can feel “less than” without the title or achievement to back it up. I share personally about my two big identity crises (one happening right now 🙋‍♀️) and why so many high-achievers fall into the trap of equating self-worth with career success. Spoiler: it’s HARD to untangle—but mission-critical if you want real confidence, clarity, and freedom at work and beyond it.If you’ve ever secretly thought: “Who am I without my job?”—this episode is your wake-up call. 🚨👉 Listen and start seeing yourself differently.#identity #self-worth #career #personalgrowth #lifetransitions #authenticity #jobloss #self-discovery #mentalhealth #emotionalintelligence #leadership #pausecast

Here’s what you’ll get when you hit play:💡 Why “being” will supercharge your “doing” (and your results)🤯 The zillion-dollar Q: If you had all the money in the world… would you still be hustling this hard?🔥 How to ditch outdated success habits that are quietly burning you out🛑 The price you pay for living in constant “go mode”💨 A guided breathwork session to re-train your body to ALLOW more ease, clarity, and joy—while still being your Type-A, high-achieving selfDo you have a mantra that helps you with more allowing and ease? Please let me know, I'd love to hear what you've been up to.Breath Pattern:Halo active (inhale thru nose, exhale deeply through mouth)Blow breath (short, strong exhales also called the lion's breath)Halo active (repeat)About RachaelRachael O’Meara is a bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and career coach who helps high-achieving leaders move beyond overwhelm and self-doubt to reclaim their confidence in their next career steps. Her book Pause was a top business book for your career, and she also authored Pause the Journal and co-authored Leading with Self-Awareness. She’s been featured in the New York Times, WSJ.com, HBR and on the TEDx stage. After thirteen years at Google in client services and sales she has a pulse on what it takes to be a successful & transformational leader. She is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC), has an MBA from Fordham University, and a Master’s in Transformational Leadership and Coaching from the Wright Graduate University. She is also a certified trauma informed breathwork facilitator. She is a eight-time rowing national champion, and tries to pause as much as possible, a lifelong challenge. Learn more at www.rachaelomeara.com

What if your to-do list is actually holding you back from the life you really want? 📝💀In this powerful and playful episode, bestselling author + behavioral change expert and VIP Karen Salmansohn joins Rachael to explore how mortality awareness can help high-achieving leaders pause, realign, and make bold, values-driven moves — before life forces the pivot.Here’s what’s inside:✨ A guided "Stop & Swap" Pause to reset in real-time💡 How writing your own eulogy can clarify your values and next steps🔁 Bridge habits that help you close the gap between your current life and your to-die-for life🧠 The hidden flaw in every to-do list (and how to rethink it)👉 Learn the 3-D Marble Mortality Method (It's powerful!)🧭 The 7 core values Karen uses to design a more intentional life🧱 Identity-based habits for sustainable change🎭 Frank Sinatra, Aristotle, and… terror management theory?!💔 Supportive tools for navigating #grief and major life transitionsThis one’s for you if you’re:→ Overthinking what comes next→ Feeling stuck in "someday" mode→ Ready for more clarity and connection to what really matters🎧 Tune in now and give yourself the gift of perspective + possibilityWhy you need to know Karen - she's quite incredibleKaren Salmansohn is a multi-bestselling author and leading Behavioral Change Expert with over 2 million books and online courses sold – plus the creative force behind the popular personal development website ⁠NotSalmon.com⁠. Her career began in New York’s top ad agencies (remember the Crossan'wich - thats her), leading her to a successful transition as a thought leader in personal development. She's been blessed by Madonna, talked on the TEDx stage, and is a very funny woman we all need to know.#ThePausecast #LeadershipPause #EmotionalIntelligence #ConfidentLeader #EndOfLifeWisdom #HighAchieverHealing #ToDieForLife

You’ve crushed goals, led teams, and made an impact—but fulfillment?That still feels… mushy—or like a luxury you don’t have time for.Especially when:✅ Deadlines are looming✅ Team dynamics are draining✅ You’re juggling high-stakes leadership and home lifeHere’s the truth:What got you here (working harder, proving yourself, pushing through)…won’t take you to your next level of leadership.🔥 Real leadership rises when it starts from the inside.Not by checking more boxes—but by connecting to your emotional clarity, confidence, and calm.In this episode, Rachael shares how executive women can:💡 Lead from EQ, not exhaustion💡 Reclaim fulfillment without quitting💡 Let go of the inner critic and own your voice again🎧 Plus: a powerful mindset shift to stop confusing “calm” with “weakness.”👉 Listen in and ask yourself:What would change if I felt more fulfilled every day—without changing jobs?If this resonates, tap to listen + rate the show—and don’t forget to subscribe to get more leadership clarity delivered right to your ears each week.#HighAchievingWomen #EmotionalIntelligence #FulfilledNotFried #ThePausecast #leadership #fulfillmentnotfluff

What if getting unstuck didn’t mean pushing harder — but letting go?When you hit a wall in your leadership or career, your instinct might be to fix it fast, get productive, or double down on strategy. But what if the real breakthrough comes from surrender?💭 You’ve tried white-knuckling your way through uncertainty…📉 You’ve judged yourself for not having it all figured out…🧩 You’ve sidelined your joy, waiting for “things to calm down.”In this episode, Rachael explores how surrender isn’t about giving up — it’s about loosening your grip so you can lead with clarity and intuition again.✨ Plus: a 2-minute breathwork practice using the mantra “I surrender” — so you can shift out of mental overdrive and into grounded presence.🔁 Ready to move forward without burning out?👉 Hit play, subscribe, and follow along for more tools to lead with emotional clarity and real confidence.

Do you ever feel like you’re in at the table —yet you still don’t belong? 🤔In this Ep. 207 of The Pausecast, we dive into a powerful leadership truth most people avoid: belonging isn’t something you earn—it’s something you choose.Based on insights from Dr. Tracy Brower’s book The Secrets to Happiness at Work 📘, we’ll explore why so many high-achieving leaders feel like outsiders—and what to do when self-doubt creeps in.You’ll learn:💡 Why belonging is a mindset shift, not a job perk🧠 What silently erodes your confidence at work🧭 How to move from “fitting in” to fully showing up🚀 Why belonging changes everything—for you and your teamHow are you doing when it comes to belonging and choosing to create that environment for yourself as a high achiever? If this resonates, let's talk. #belonging #emotionalintelligence #leadershipdevelopment #teamcoaching #executivecoaching #leadersbelong #podcast #powerofpause #womenleaders

In this powerful episode 206 (Formerly Ep 37) of The Pausecast, Emily Fletcher, founder of Ziva Meditation and one of my mentors, invites you into a manifesting pause that reconnects you to what truly matters—and what’s possible when you shift your attention with intention....and then sign up to join us July 22nd for her live free workshop (see below). BONUS: ⁠Attend Emily's upcoming 2 hour workshop July 22nd⁠ - register and save your spot - It’s free. It’s live. It’s energetic activation like you've never felt before - or click here: https://cd371.isrefer.com/go/magic-m/romeara ✨ What we cover:A guided manifesting pause you can repeat anytimeThe surprising key to feeling good and seeing more opportunitiesThe energetic difference between reacting vs. moving toward what you wantEmily’s story of leading with clarity, vision, and serviceHow to harness your privilege, presence, and purpose in the face of big challengesThe 3 essential questions every leader should ask themselves right now🔥 If you’re craving more alignment, calm, and clarity in a world that never stops moving, this episode is for you.👉 Listen now—and get inspired to show up differently.About Emily FletcherEmily has helped over 50,000 people reduce stress, sleep better, and embody their highest potential through meditation and manifesting.Fletcher’s best-selling book, Stress Less, Accomplish More, is a Wall Street Journal best seller. Her work has been featured by The New York Times, Good Morning America, The Today Show and Vogue. She’s trained teams at Google, Apple, and Harvard, sharing the tools that elevate performance and wellbeing in real life. #pausecast #techleaders #emotionalintelligence #leadership #manifesting #clarity #executivecoaching #ziva #innerwork #overwhelmtoleadership #zivamagic

Ever feel like your brain works differently—faster, deeper, or just... more? You’re not alone. Over 30% of us are neurodivergent—and in this powerful episode of The Pausecast, guest Rachel Radway shares how discovering her neurodivergence, ADHD and unique wiring helped her lead, live, and create differently.✨ Join me and Rachel R. for a thought-provoking, compassionate, and practical convo on how to thrive as a sensitive, driven brain in a high-performing world as we discuss her book and these topics, Perceptive. In this episode, we cover:🧠 A guided pause + visualization to ground your energy🌪️ Rachel’s story of learning she was neurodivergent—and what changed💬 Why “Highly Sensitive Person” might not be the most helpful label💡 How to use neurodivergence as a business edge🔄 The moment her team almost fell apart—and how her brain actually saved them🫣 What Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria really feels like📣 How to stop taking feedback so personally🔥 Burnout prevention for ADHD & HSPs🌀 Hormones + ADHD: what perimenopausal women need to knowWhether you’re newly diagnosed, deeply sensitive, or just wondering if there’s a better way to lead and live with your brilliant, busy brain—this one’s for you.👉 Listen now & subscribe to The Pausecast wherever you get your podcasts.About Author Rachel RadwayRachel Eve Radway is a certified leadership coach, mentor, speaker, and author with 25+ years’ experience in corporate leadership roles in startups, national nonprofits, and global enterprises. Rachel helps high-achieving, highly perceptive and neurodivergent clients learn to lead with confidence, clarity and authenticity—and without burning out. Her book, Perceptive, has received endorsements and rave reviews from leaders from diverse backgrounds across industries. #thepausecast #neurodivergentleaders #emotionalintelligence #highlysensitive #executivecoaching #adhdwomen #burnoutprevention #pausepractice #powerofpause

If you're constantly on—leading teams, hitting deadlines, and juggling priorities—this episode is for you. Because high demands in tech doesn’t have to mean running on empty.I’ll show you 5 science-backed micro shifts that take less than 2 minutes a day and can radically improve your clarity, leadership, and resilience. These are the same tools I use with execs at Google, Meta, and startups alike.These aren’t fluffy wellness tips. They’re practical micro-habits that you can implement in less than 2 minutes, right in the flow of your day. ✨ Inside this episode:How tiny, intentional behavior shifts unlock new levels of mental clarityThe pause = power formula that helps you lead with emotional intelligenceA guided pause practice you can use immediately to shift out of reactivityWhether your day is packed, unpredictable, or just a grind, these 5 pause tools are designed to help you regain your center and lead from a place of calm authority. Because it doesn't have to be any other way.👉 If you’re a high achiever craving more presence, focus, or fulfillment—this is your time.Let’s talk. Book a free coaching consult at:https://calendly.com/rachaelomeara/30mins So if you’re ready to stop reacting and start leading with calm, grounded focus—press play.