Work Is Third

What if protecting your peace doesn’t mean staying quiet—but finally speaking up? In this episode of Work is Third, Dawn Hunter talks with Rene Rivas, entrepreneur, nurse, and founder of RevIVe+ Mobile IV Concierge, about healing, presence, vulnerability, and redefining success on your own terms.Rene shares his journey from difficult workplace experiences to building a business rooted in prevention and wellbeing. Together, Dawn and Rene explore the power of community, how joy can be a daily choice, why adulthood may need to be reimagined, and the difference between being a thermometer who reacts to the room—or a thermostat who sets the tone.📚 Guest InfoWebsite: revive2you.com Socials: @revive2yoLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @the_dawn_hunter

Have you ever had a moment where you stopped and thought… how much of who I am is actually me?In this episode of Work is Third, Dawn Hunter sits down with James Lumumba, host of Don’t Be Afraid to Talk, for a powerful conversation on identity and how to rewrite the stories we’ve been told about ourselves.Together, they explore how many of the beliefs people carry about themselves are shaped by early experiences, expectations, and the need to belong along with what it takes to question and rewrite those stories.This episode covers:Letting go of external expectations Understanding guilt and people-pleasing The connection between belonging and self-worth Rewriting personal narratives Learning to love yourself and build healthier relationships Through honest reflection and shared experience, this conversation offers a reminder that self-awareness is the first step toward real change, and that it’s possible to define yourself on your own terms.📚 Guest InfoWebsite: https://co-creatingcoach.ie/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dontbeafraidtotalk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameslumumba/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dontbeafraidtotalk/📔Resources MentionedPieta House, Pieta | Preventing Suicide and Self-Harm since 2006Movie: Banshees of Inisherin (2022)

What if the problem isn’t that your life is too full, but that there’s no space for what actually matters?In this episode of Work Is Third, Dawn Hunter speaks with Natolie Warren, a psychotherapist, wellness expert, and retreat leader, about shifting out of autopilot and reconnecting with yourself through small, intentional practices.They explore the power of breath, the importance of asking better questions, and how letting go of expectations and guilt can open the door to a more fulfilling life. This conversation is a reminder that meaningful change doesn’t always require a complete overhaul. Sometimes it starts with a pause.📚 Guest InfoWebsite: www.natoliewarren.comAll Socials: @natoliewarren 📔 Resources MentionedBurnout: The Secret to Unlocking the StressCycle by Amelia NagoskiWe Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers Let’s Stay Connected🎧Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What happens when women share their stories and build connections across generations?In this episode of Work Is Third, Dawn Hunter speaks with the hosts of the Raised by Her Podcast, a mother-daughter duo exploring womanhood, identity, and life through an intergenerational lens.Together, they discuss the power of storytelling, the importance of honest conversations about women’s health, and how mentorship and community can help women navigate life’s challenges. From self-care and career growth to generational wisdom and evolving relationships, the conversation highlights how sharing experiences can help the next generation move forward with greater clarity and support.This episode is a reminder that when women openly share their stories, they create space for learning, connection, and collective progress.📚 Guest InfoWebsite: https://raisedbyherpodcast.buzzsprout.com/   All Socials: https://linktr.ee/raisedbyherpodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RaisedByHerPodcastTikTok: tiktok.com/@raisedbyherpodcastInstagram: instagram.com/@raisedbyherpodcastFacebook: facebook.com/RaisedByHerPodcastX: x.com/@RaisedByHerPod 🎶Raised by Her’s contribution to the Playlist: You Gotta Be by Des'ree Let’s Stay Connected🎧Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What if progress didn’t have to look impressive to count?In this episode of Work Is Third, Dawn Hunter sits down with founder and storyteller Paula Thomas to explore what it means to rebuild after loss, and how small wins can change everything.After navigating crippling depression and anxiety, and later, an ADHD and autism diagnosis, building a career in tech, and then losing her husband unexpectedly, Paula was forced to redefine everything: her identity, her work, and what success really means. Along the way, she discovered that small, intentional progress is often the most powerful kind.Together, Dawn and Paula discuss: Why “success” doesn’t always look like successWhat motorcycles and submarines teach us about resilienceWhy grief doesn’t fit into three days of PTOHow to build workplaces that expect the unexpectedWhy keeping a “win book” mattersThis conversation is for anyone who has experienced loss, burnout, identity shifts, or the quiet pressure to do more and is ready to move forward with intention.📚 Guest InfoWebsite: weiter-mfg.com LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-thomas/🎶Paula’s contribution to the Playlist: Shake it Out by Florence + The Machine📔 Resources MentionedSuperBetter App, https://superbetter.com/Brag Books “Clear is kind,” attributed to Brené BrownMilitary Concepts: submarine qualification cards(cross-training for resilience); designing systems that expect failure/unexpected absenceMorning pages, from The Artist’s WayLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What does real healing look like after historical trauma, and how do we carry sovereignty, ceremony, and leadership into modern life?In this episode of Work Is Third, Dawn sits down with Southern Cheyenne Chris Tall Bear for a deeply grounded conversation about healing, history, and the responsibility of leadership. Chris Tall Bear is a Southern Cheyenne Chief, Tribal public health advisor, and community leader. In this conversation, he shares his experience as a descendant of survivors of the Sand Creek Massacre and his role in memorialization efforts.Together, they explore:The connection between community, history, and resilienceWhat tribal sovereignty really means in practiceThe role of ceremony and traditional healing in public health Leadership as service Balancing modern life, technology, and cultural traditionThe importance of women in Indigenous communitiesWhy self-care is essential for leaders and healersChris also reflects on his personal journey, his family legacy, and his emerging consulting work focused on cultural engagement and traditional healing. This episode is about sovereignty, ceremony, and the kind of leadership that sustains communities across generations.📚 Guest InfoWebsite: https://www.tallbearllc.com/ Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-tall-bear-9894881a2/Business LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tallbear-llc/?viewAsMember=trueSand Creek Memorial Project: https://www.sandcreekmassacrefoundation.org/Article, Colorado cannot heal until itconfronts Sand Creek honestly: https://www.hcn.org/articles/colorado-cannot-heal-until-it-confronts-sand-creek-honestly/Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What if your exhaustion, pain, or restlessness isn’t something to fix, but something to listen to?In this episode of Work Is Third, Dawn Hunter sits down with Dr. Aissa McGuirl, physical therapist and author of Connect the Body Dots, for a grounded conversation about what our bodies are trying to tell us and why so many of us aren’t listening.Together, they explore how breath, movement, and recovery are foundational to nervous system regulation, sustainable energy, and long-term health. Dr. McGuirl shares why constant productivity keeps us stuck in survival mode, how body awareness can change the way we work and live, and what it really means to support your body instead of pushing through it.This episode is an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and rethink what “taking care of yourself” actually looks like in a culture that rewards burnout and productivity.📚 Guest InfoWebsite: connectthbodydots.comIG @dr.aissa_YouTube: connectthebodydotsBook: Connect the Body Dots, connectthebodydots.com/thebookLet’s Stay Connected🎧Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What does it mean to care deeply for others without losing yourself in the process?Adrienne Tucker, founder of Generation NOW Alaska, joins Work Is Third to talk about chronic illness, caregiving, boundaries, and the truth behind showing up sustainably.Living with fibromyalgia while leading youth programs, supporting families, and raising two children has taught Adrienne a powerful lesson: you can’t give your best if you’re not at your best.This conversation is for anyone doing emotional labor, care work, leadership, or advocacy, and also learning how to protect their energy while staying connected to purpose.📚 Guest InfoWebsite:www.generationnowak.org FB: Adrienne TuckerIG: @coachadriennemotivatesIG: @gennowak TT: @coachadriennemotivates📚 Resources MentionedBook: When Making Others Happy is Making You Miserable by Karen EhmanLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Midlife isn’t a decline — it’s a shift.In this episode of Work Is Third, Dawn sits down with Certified Midlife Coach Jody Phifer for an honest, grounding conversation about perimenopause, menopause, identity, and what it really means to put yourself first after decades of caregiving, hustling, and holding it all together.Together, they unpack why perimenopause is just one part of a much bigger midlife transition, how to navigate symptoms and changing bodies with compassion (not shame), and why this next chapter can be just as — if not more — badass than the first.Learn more at workisthird.comFollow along on Instagram & TikTok: @workisthirdlife📚 Guest InfoWebsite: thrivewithintention.comIG: @thrivewithintentionofficialShift Happens Quiz: thrivewithintention.com/quizPodcast: thrivewithintention.com/podcast/📚 Resources MentionedThe New Menopause by Dr. Mary Claire HaverThe Menopause Society – menopause.orgMidi HealthShift Happens Quiz: thrivewithintention.com/quiz🎶 Joyful Rebellion Playlist AdditionsRun the World – BeyoncéGratitude – Jason MrazThankful – Beth HartLeaving it All Behind – Fia🎧 These songs (and more) are on the Joyful Rebellion playlist — linked in the show notes.

When you’ve spent years being who you needed to be, it can be hard to remember who you actually are.This episode is an invitation to slow down, sit with yourself, and reconnect with what self-love really looks like.In this episode of Work Is Third, Dawn Hunter talks with Ger Carriere, entrepreneur, artist, and healer, about healing, legacy, identity, and what it means to truly commit to yourself.This conversation is a reminder that self-love isn’t complicated—it’s the daily practice of presence, honesty, and choosing yourself.Learn more at workisthird.comFollow along on Instagram & TikTok: @workisthirdlife📚 Guest InfoWebsite: wildwomanwithin.me Instagram: @gercarriere Linktree:  https://linktr.ee/GerCarriereWildWoman

Helping is human…but learning how to help without losing yourself is healing.In this bonus clip, Adam Wilson opens up about why helping others has become both his instinct and his biggest boundary challenge. From Costco moments to vulnerable conversations with his son, Adam shares how presence — not presents — is what children and loved ones truly need. We also talk about breaking generational parenting patterns, modeling emotional regulation, and the hard but necessary work of setting boundaries with our own parents.A thoughtful, honest look at what it really means to grow, give, and protect your peace.📚 Guest Info·      IG/Tiktok: @Theadamwilson_·      Facebook: Adam J WilsonLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

How are you pausing and reflecting this holiday season?In this reflective solo episode, Dawn pauses as we head into the holidays to share what’s happening across the Work Is Third movement—from the new Bookshop.org list and the Joyful Rebellion playlist to her bi-weekly newsletters and your opportunity to send in voice notes.Dawn also revisits her favorite guest quotes, emerging themes across the first season, and her own “bonus clip moment” where she answers the same questions she asks every guest:• What’s easy to say yes to?• What’s hard to say no to?• Where is she doing well with joy, rest, and boundaries?• Where is she still struggling?She closes with reflections on slowing down, stillness, present bias, perfectionism, listening to your body, and redefining success—plus an invitation to choose joy, protect your peace, and rest this holiday season.In this episode:Protecting your joy in hard cultural moments A preview of the The Joyful Rebellion Reading List at Bookshop.orgThe Joyful Rebellion playlist + newsletter updatesWhy your voice notes matter and how to send oneGuest quotes Dawn can’t stop thinking aboutTop themes emerging across the podcastDawn’s personal “bonus clip” answersWhat she’s learned about rest, boundaries, stillness, and slowing downAn end-of-year invitation to choose yourself firstResources Mentioned:Bookshop list: The Joyful Rebellion Reading ListThe Joyful Rebellion newsletter: The Joyful Rebellion — Rest, Boundaries & Workplace WellbeingThe Joyful Rebellion Spotify PlaylistSend Dawn a voice noteConnect with Dawn and Work is Third!🎧 Subscribe to the show📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife🌐workisthird.com

We’re taught to hustle. We’re never taught to heal. That changes in this episode.Mindset and wellness coach Adam Wilson joins Work Is Third for a powerful and vulnerable conversation about healing, habits, father and mother wounds, breaking generational patterns, and learning to rest. Adam shares how childhood trauma shaped his early life, what pushed him out of tech and into coaching, how he helps men reconnect with their Inner King, and the importance of sleep, routines, rest, and perspective in healing. Together, we explore transitions, self-doubt, boundary-setting—especially with parents—and practical steps to break the cycles we inherited. This episode is a reminder that healing is possible, seasons change, and you always have the power to rewrite your story.📚 Guest InfoIG/Tiktok: @Theadamwilson_Facebook: Adam J Wilson🎶Adam's contribution to The Joyful Rebellion Spotify Playlist: Miguel, Skywalker 📚 Resources MentionedThe Untethered Soul by Michael A. SingerThe Garden Within by Dr. Anita PhillipsAdam’s podcast: Hustle & HealInstitute of Integrative Nutrition (IIN)💬 Key Quotes “What’s uncomfortable now can be comfortable later.”“You are your best project. When are you going to take time for yourself?”“I love you, but I love me more.”“We’re taught to hustle, but nobody teaches us how to heal.”“Sometimes you have to rest to remember who you actually are.”Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife 📂 Section Markers00:46 Section 1: Life Transitions and Childhood Patterns25:14 Section 2: Routines, Rest, and Rewriting Your Story 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Navigating Transitions and Embracing Change02:46 The Power of Mindset and Daily Routines05:13 Integrating Technology in Coaching08:11 The Importance of Sleep and Rest10:49 Creating Healthy Habits and Routines17:01 Exploring Sleep and Body Awareness20:08 The Journey to Coaching and Personal Growth22:34 Understanding Childhood Patterns and Their Impact25:58 The Role of Male Mentorship and Support28:35 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence30:07 The Power of Perspective and Reading37:08 Finding Purpose Beyond a Job39:47 Embracing Rest and Personal Development41:03 The Importance of Rest and Recovery45:13 The Hustle and Heal Podcast Journey46:29 Setting Boundaries with Family46:56 Childhood Trauma and Its Impact48:35 Embracing Uncomfortable Growth

If a 30-minute nap saves your whole day… take the nap.In this bonus clip, systems strategist and author Averri Simone Liggins shares how she recognizes the early signs of burnout — and the simple practices that help her reset before things spiral. From power naps to prioritizing client work, to delegating and building a support circle, Averri reminds us that systems matter just as much in life as they do in business.✨ If you’ve been running on empty, this one’s for you.Listen to the full episode: The Systems You Need to Live Your Best Life📚 Guest Info·      Autopilot Your Success —Averri’s Book·      Website: www.blackwomenmoguls.com ·      Social media: @blackwomenmoguls Let’s Stay Connected·      🎧 Subscribe to the show!·      📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter·      📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

How do you run a business, care for a parent, and thrive with a chronic health condition? In this heartfelt and practical conversation, systems strategist and author Averri Simone Liggins shares the structures and routines that help her run a thriving business while also serving as a full-time caregiver and navigating chronic health challenges. We talk about the real-world power of systems as tools that make space for joy, boundaries, and taking care of both your future self and your present self.We dig into:• Why systems are the secret to more freedom• How caregiving reshaped her business• Saying no with confidence• Managing energy, not just time• The joy of hobbies, WWE nights, and creative adventures• And the importance of planning both rest and funIt’s a conversation full of warmth, wisdom, and real talk about life, business, boundaries, and what it takes to build a life that supports you.📚 Guest InfoAutopilot Your Success —Averri’s BookWebsite: www.blackwomenmoguls.com Social media: @blackwomenmoguls💬 Key Quotes “My purpose is to build my business around my life—not the other way around.”“No is a complete sentence. You’re not being selfish by prioritizing yourself.” “If I don’t take care of myself, I won’t be able to take care of my mother.” “Knowing when to stop before you’re forced to stop is so important.” “Systems are usually the last thing we think about—until we need them.” Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife 📂 Section Markers01:01 Section 1: Why Systems Matter for Building a Life That Works23:30 Section 2: Health, Wealth, and Taking Care of Your Future Self📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Systems and Success01:34 The Birth of 'Autopilot Your Success'07:10 The Importance of Systems in Business10:55 Balancing Caregiving and Entrepreneurship13:43 Listening to Your Body and Planning Breaks19:24 Building a Business Around Your Life20:33 Setting Boundaries for Personal Well-being24:07 Navigating Personal Relationships and Boundaries28:21 Future Self and Decision Making29:41 Finding Balance in Life32:31 Embracing Hobbies and Interests36:45 Self-Care Practices and Rituals39:28 The Importance of Exercise and Health43:06 Navigating Health Challenges45:09 Setting Boundaries and Saying No45:16 Delegating and Asking for Help

How do you make time for yourself while still showing up for others?In this lighthearted and honest bonus clip, Dawn and Lynn swap stories about self-care, boundaries, and the body changes no one warns you about.From walking the dog and wearing sunscreen to navigating perimenopause and hot flashes in public, Lynn reminds us that taking care of ourselves is a lifelong practice—and humor helps.This short conversation is a joyful reminder that wellbeing isn’t about perfection. It’s about showing up for yourself, one walk (or one sunscreen application) at a time.🎶Lynn's additions to The Joyful Rebellion Spotify playlist:Fight Song by Rachel PlattenGirls Just Wanna Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper💬 Key Quotes:“It’s hard to say no to spending time with people you love with all your heart.” “One of the things I struggle with is I stretch myself too thin doing things for others and I lose time for myself.”Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What does it mean to lead with heart—and stay grounded when everything changes? In this warm and reflective episode, Dawn reconnects with her former boss and friend, Lynn Gallagher, former Secretary of Health for New Mexico.Together, they share stories of friendship, grief, leadership, and joy—from mismatched earrings and “Power Squad” calls to lessons learned through loss and career transitions. They explore what it means to redefine yourself after leadership, how to lead with kindness and courage, and why who you are matters more than what you do.This episode is a love letter to strong, compassionate women in leadership and a reminder that staying rooted is one of the bravest things you can do.🎶Lynn's additions to The Joyful Rebellion playlist:Fight Song by Rachel PlattenGirls Just Wanna Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper📘 Books & Resources Mentioned:We Should All Be Millionaires — Rachel RodgersDesigning Your Life — Bill Burnett & Dave EvansAttention Span — Gloria MarkStart with Why — Simon SinekIt Starts with Us — Colleen HooverOf Mice and Men — John SteinbeckSlaughterhouse-Five — Kurt VonnegutThe Plague — Albert CamusA Different Kind of Power — Jacinda ArdernThe Passage — Justin Cronin💬 Key Quotes:“Who am I, if I’m not who I was?”“She changed people’s lives just by remembering their names.”“Staying rooted in who you are is part of boundary setting.”  Let’s Stay Connected🎧Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife 📂 Section Markers01:07 Section 1: From Power Squad to Finding Purpose24:10 Section 2: The Legacy of Kindness and Leading with Heart 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Reconnecting and Catching Up02:26 Shared Experiences in Public Health Leadership06:39 Navigating Grief and Transition in Leadership10:07 The Impact of Political Changes on Public Health14:59 Personal Growth and Self-Discovery17:36 The Legacy of Kindness in Leadership29:13 The Importance of Rest and Recharge35:20 Work-Life Balance: Putting Work Third44:08 Celebrating Growth and Staying True to Yourself

Do you rest hard?In this Work Is Third bonus clip, Tyneka Pack, founder of Impackt Fitness, reminds us that joy, rest, and boundaries are just as essential to leadership as drive and discipline.From laughing about her love of cookies to reflecting on what truly brings her childlike joy, Tyneka offers a refreshing take on what it means to fill your own cup. She shares how overbooking herself reminded her to pause, reset, and make time for simple pleasures — because rest isn’t a reward, it’s part of the work.Guest Info@tdeniise/@impackt_fitness (IG)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyneka-pack-4221a441Website: www.impacktfitness.com🎧 Listen to the full episode, Wellness That Works for Women Who Lead, for more on how to sustain your ambition without burning out.Let’s Stay Connected🎧Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Is your body strong enough to sustain your ambition?In this episode, fitness coach and founder of Impackt Fitness, Tyneka Pack, joins Work Is Third to talk about what it really means to sustain your ambition — not just chase it.From building a body that can carry your vision to embracing mindset shifts and the power of flexibility, Tyneka shares how high-performing women can lead with intention instead of exhaustion. We talk about redefining productivity, honoring your body’s natural rhythms, and how to make movement part of a holistic leadership strategy.Guest Info@tdeniise/@impackt_fitness (IG)LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyneka-pack-4221a441Website: www.impacktfitness.com💬Key Quotes“You can’t carry out the vision if the vessel is depleted.”“Boundaries don’t matter unless they’re enforced.”“Rest and recovery should be built into your wellness plan.”“Wellness is not a luxury — it’s a leadership strategy.” 📂 Section Markers01:06 Section 1: The Body Carries the Vision23:54 Section 2: Breaks, Mindset Shifts, and the Power of Flexibility 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Recouping Energy03:00 Daily Routines and Time Management05:39 The Journey to Impackt Fitness09:04 Holistic Approach to Fitness12:21 Maintaining Personal Wellness15:50 Recognizing and Managing Burnout19:11 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self-Care22:10 Scheduling Around Energy Levels28:18 The Importance of Taking Breaks30:43 Flexibility in Fitness Routines33:37 Mindset Shifts in Fitness34:43 Creating Space for Self-Care37:25 Setting Boundaries with Work41:26 Creating a Nighttime Routine44:11 Identifying Joy and Self-Care Challenges44:25 Time Management and Overbooking Challenges  Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Freddy Jackson, founder of the Love...No Ego Foundation, shares how he says yes to love—even when that means saying no to something else. In this short and soulful bonus clip, Freddy talks about protecting his peace, practicing at life, and creating space for what truly matters. 💬 Key Quotes “It’s easy for me to say yes to love—because I recognize it every time.”“I’m obedient to my peace.”“Even when I say no, I can still be saying yes to love.”Guest InfoWebsite: https://www.mrlovenoego.org/National Love…No Ego Day: https://www.nationaldayarchives.com/day/national-love-no-ego-day) The Love No Ego Experience: https://www.lovenoego.org/thelneexperienceSOCIAL MEDIA LINKS @mrlovenoegoLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What does it mean to live without ego and lead with love?In this episode, Dawn sits down with Freddy Jackson, inspirational speaker and founder of the Love No Ego Foundation, to explore what it truly means to practice at life. From grounding in nature to creating the conditions for peace, Freddy shares how authenticity, curiosity, and courage shape his work mentoring youth and speaking across the country. This conversation will leave you reflecting on how to meet life as it is—fully, intentionally, and with love.Guest Info·      Website: https://www.mrlovenoego.org/·      National Love…No Ego Day: https://www.nationaldayarchives.com/day/national-love-no-ego-day·      The Love No Ego Experience:  https://www.lovenoego.org/thelneexperience·      SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS @mrlovenoegoIG: https://www.instagram.com/mrlovenoego/LI: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mrlovenoegoFB: https://www.facebook.com/MrLoveNoEgo/YT: https://www.youtube.com/mrlovenoegoTT: https://www.tiktok.com/mrlovenoegoBookso  "Love...No Ego, Where Are You Living From?"o  "The Youser's Manual"Projects: The future "Love No Ego, Youth Community Park"    Events: https://www.mrlovenoego.org/speakingevents💬 Key Quotes “You have to practice at life. We practice sports, we practice work—but how often do we practice simply being alive?”“Reality is the now. Everything else is something we made up.”“If you create the conditions for peace, peace will come.”“Love heals. Ego destroys.”“What you’re looking for, you already have.”📂 Section Markers01:16 Section 1: Practicing Life and the Power of Presence21:28 Section 2: Creating the Conditions for Peace and the Courage to Be You 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Connection to Nature02:37 The Importance of Being Present06:55 Understanding the Love No Ego Philosophy10:47 Teaching Kids About Ego13:49 Creating Conditions for Success17:01 The Power of Now and Personal Responsibility20:49 Challenges as Opportunities for Growth24:16 The Disconnect from Childhood Joy28:22 Reflections on Life's Journey28:51 The Courage to Be Authentic30:59 Navigating Midlife Crises32:05 Daily Practices for Inner Peace33:52 Creating a Serene Environment35:53 The Importance of Grounding38:02 Time Confetti: Managing Life's Distractions40:16 Removing Physical and Emotional Clutter42:46 Intentional Living and Self-Reflection43:28 Personal Reflections on Love and Acceptance Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Does your calendar spark joy?In this short, joy-filled clip, Jen Sacks, host of Small Things, Big Life, shares her take on Yes Days, saying no, and why her calendar glows bright yellow for workouts and joy.Dawn and Jen talk about parenting, boundaries, and the simple rituals that bring balance — like giving yourself permission to say yes to what matters most and no to what drains your energy.It’s a lighthearted reminder that self-care doesn’t have to be complicated — sometimes it’s just a pop of color and a block of time that says, this is for me.Guest Info·      Website: https://www.smallthingsbig.life/·      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576508242635·      Instagram: @small.things.big.life (https://www.instagram.com/small.things.big.life/)·      LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-sacksLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show!📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

When was the last time you really slowed down?In this conversation, Dawn sits down with Jen Sacks, host of Small Things, Big Life, to explore what it really means to pause, let go, and trust the messy middle. After nearly 20 years in the federal workforce, Jen is navigating a new season—learning how to rest without guilt, create new routines, and embrace the beauty of uncertainty.Together, they unpack the tension between stillness and productivity, the joy that comes from small steps, and how transitions can become sacred opportunities for mending and healing. This episode is a gentle reminder that slowing down isn’t a sign of stopping—it’s how we find our way forward.Guest InfoWebsite: https://www.smallthingsbig.life/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576508242635Instagram: @small.things.big.life (https://www.instagram.com/small.things.big.life/)LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-sacks💬 Key Quotes“You have to make sure you’re focused on your health, because once you fill your cup, then you can give a little bit more.” – Jen Sacks“If you can strip away the titles and just see people as human beings, you’ll have more compassion.” – Jen Sacks“Other people are not a means to an end; we’re all in this together.” – Dawn Hunter“The world can be on fire, and we can still live joyful, connected lives.” – Dawn Hunter “Healing sometimes looks like mending the pieces you didn’t even know were cracked.” – Jen Sacks📂 Section Markers01:16 Section 1: The Power of Pause Amid Transition27:25 Section 2: Being Better Leaders and Better Humans 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Navigating Transitions and Emotions03:27 The Importance of Self-Care and Mindfulness06:07 Finding Balance in Life and Work08:57 The Challenge of Productivity and Rest11:36 Creating Structure in a Flexible Life14:35 Embracing Imperfection and Messiness30:27 Navigating Household Dynamics33:20 Understanding Personal Preferences in Relationships35:29 The Importance of Communication in Relationships38:07 Leadership and Team Dynamics40:52 The Human Element in Leadership43:29 Creating Joyful Connections44:54 Intentional Pauses for Personal Growth Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Subscribe to the show 📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Feeling tired or stretched thin? This one’s your reminder to listen to your body and make room for the magic that comes when you rest.In this bonus clip, Your Dream Strategist Rashidat Odeyemi reminds us: “There's so many amazing things in this world to experience if we allow ourselves this space to do it.”The magic is in listening to your body, honoring what feels right, and letting go when it’s time to make room for something new.✨ A conversation about changing rhythms, redefining rest, and making space for the magic. 💬 Key Quotes“Your body will tell you what your mind tries to ignore.”“If I can make money off it, I can’t call it rest.”“You didn’t change your mind — you evolved.”“Make space for things to be magical.”Guest InfoWebsite: https://yourdreamstrategist.com/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yourdreamstrategistEmail: [email protected] me here:  https://ig.me/m/yourdreamstrategistTT: https://www.tiktok.com/@yourdreamstrategistLI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yourdreamstrategist/IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourdreamstrategist/Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What if success wasn’t the goal—but joy was? In this uplifting episode, Your Dream Strategist Rashidat Odeyemi joins Dawn to explore what it means to create a soft life filled with alignment, curiosity, and celebration. Together they unpack burnout recovery, the myths of hustle culture, and how to rehydrate your “dreaming gland.”From roller coasters to rest, Rashidat reminds us that we can plan our joy just as intentionally as our achievements—and that being gentle with ourselves is the most radical act of all.Guest InfoWebsite: https://yourdreamstrategist.com/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yourdreamstrategistEmail: [email protected] me here:  https://ig.me/m/yourdreamstrategistTT: https://www.tiktok.com/@yourdreamstrategistLI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yourdreamstrategist/IG: https://www.instagram.com/yourdreamstrategist/💬 Key Quotes“We’ve been taught to plan our success, but never to plan our joy.”“You can’t burnout-proof your life without learning what makes you come alive.”“Be gentle with yourself—you’re blooming, not breaking.”“Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is rest.”“Throw your hands up, say ‘weee,’ and enjoy the ride.”📂 Section Markers01:04 Section 1: Rediscovering What Makes You Come Alive25:12 Section 2: Alignment, Celebration, and Joy in Practice📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Rashidat's Journey02:33 The Importance of Rest and Slow Travel05:24 Understanding and Preventing Burnout08:08 Mindset Shifts for Fulfillment11:18 The Journey of Self-Discovery13:59 Creating a Life of Joy and Adventure17:00 Embracing Change and New Beginnings19:42 The Process of Personal Growth22:19 Celebrating Small Wins25:16 Aligning Life with Personal Values30:46 Embracing Change and Curiosity32:06 The Roller Coaster of Life35:16 Theme Park Adventures and Joyful Experiences38:29 Finding Joy Amidst Uncertainty40:27 Living Beyond Restrictions43:21 Reimagining Work and Life Post-COVID44:22 Creating Space for Magic and Evolution Let’s Stay Connected🎧Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

How do you keep growing when life already feels full?In this bonus clip, Dawn and Jayden Aubryn explores what it means to stay curious, expressive, and grounded. From redefining continuing education to embracing creativity and self-reflection, this short conversation is full of reminders to celebrate progress—not perfection.Guest Infochaotichealing.org tiseconsultingandtherapy.com@chaotic_healers (IG)@tiseconsultingandtherapy (IG and Tiktok)Twerk for Trauma course 💬 Key Quote“There's so many different ways to engage with continuingeducation.”Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What if healing meant moving your body — joyfully, messily,and without judgment?In this episode, psychotherapist, personal trainer, and founder of Chaotic Healing, Jayden Aubryn joins Dawn to explore what it means to live intentionally, move intuitively, and reject all-or-nothing thinking. From their “Twerk for Trauma” course to their reflections on grief, celebration, and creative freedom, Jayden reminds us that healing doesn’t have to be linear — it just has to be yours.Together, they talk about the power of embodiment, the traps of productivity and perfectionism, and why reframing “good vs. bad” into “helpful vs. harmful” might be the most compassionate boundary you can set.Guest Infochaotichealing.org tiseconsultingandtherapy.com@chaotic_healers (IG)@tiseconsultingandtherapy (IG and Tiktok)Twerk for Trauma course 💬 Key Quotes“You can do whatever you want. You can be whoever you are.”“Grief and celebration are two sides of the same coin.”“If you are moving in a joyful and embodied way — you feel free and open and not judged — that puts us in a place to heal from trauma.”“Healing is being able to hold as many parts of ourselves as once without melting down.”“If you create art, you’re an artist. Period.”📚 Resources MentionedThe Artist’s Way by Julia CameronLibby app (for free audiobooks)Healing While Black Conference (St. Petersburg, FL)📂 Section Markers01:05 Section 1: Embodied Intentions and Rhythms of Life26:19 Section 2: Healing, Creativity, and Redefining Success 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Chaotic Healing and Compassionate Science03:44 Finding Balance in Work and Life06:32 Intentionality and Goal Setting09:26 The Role of Movement in Healing12:04 Exploring Dance as a Therapeutic Tool14:51 Redefining Professionalism in Dance and Art26:22 The Value of Art Beyond Capitalism29:29 Expressing Creativity in Small Moments31:20 Understanding Grief and Celebration34:55 Healing Through Emotional Complexity37:35 Defining Personal Goals and Values41:35 Navigating Work-Life Balance45:55 Empowering Choices and Self-Reflection Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Want more energy? Start delegating!In this bonus clip from Work is Third, Danielle Roberts — the Anti-Career Coach — shares how outsourcing and delegation aren’t just for leaders, they’re for anyone who wants to protect their energy. From grocery delivery to hiring an assistant, Danielle and I talk about why letting go of certain tasks is a game-changer for boundaries, wellbeing, and joy.💬Key Quote"If you can outsource one thing to give yourself more energy or more capacity back, do it before you think that you need to."✍🏽Guest InfoTEDx Talk: Why Working Harder Isn't Working by Danielle Roberts Website: danielleroberts.coSocials: @imdaniellerobertsLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Do you have the audacity to live life on your own terms?Danielle Roberts, known as the Anti-Career Coach, joins me for a raw and inspiring conversation about redefining our relationship to work, navigating grief, and choosing authenticity. Danielle shares her journey of becoming sober, the lessons she’s carried from losing her mom at a young age, and how those experiences shaped her philosophy on work, joy, and boundaries.We explore the toxicity of hustle culture, why leadership training is desperately lacking, how women can align work with their natural cycles, and the importance of creating community and psychological safety in the workplace. This is an episode about audacity, authenticity, and learning to live a life you’re proud of — not just a career.📚 Resources Mentioned·       TEDx Talk: Why Working Harder Isn't Working by Danielle Roberts·       Website: danielleroberts.co·      Socials: @imdanielleroberts·      Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown·      We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers·      The Top Five Regrets of the Dying by Bronnie Ware✨ Key Quotes“We spend way too many hours at work for it to suck”“If today was my last day, would I be proud of the person that I am and what I’ve accomplished?” “We’re superheroes with what our bodies produce — so why aren’t we aligning work with our natural cycles?” “You don’t have to pour from an empty cup — it should be overflowing.” “Give yourself permission to want the things you want and do the things you want to do.” 📂 Section Markers01:05 Section 1: Astonished, Authentic, and Breaking Hustle Culture26:03 Section 2: Grief, Growth, and Living with Audacity 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps02:36 The Journey to Sobriety05:33 Mindful Practices for Well-Being08:15 Understanding Menstrual Cycles and Work10:57 Challenging Workplace Norms13:38 Leadership and Management Gaps16:15 Creating a Supportive Work Environment19:08 The Importance of Human Connection22:02 Quality of Life and Work-Life Balance24:24 Reflections on Mortality and Life Choices31:38 The Quest for Validation and Acceptance36:42 Unlearning Childhood Programming39:53 Listening to Your Intuition45:00 Embracing Authenticity in Professional Spaces47:13 The Power of Audacity48:45 Finding Balance Beyond Work Let’s Stay Connected🎧Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Do you have days where you just can't do it all?In this bonus clip, Cassandra Hill reminds us of the power of boundaries. Sometimes saying no is the most faithful yes you can give yourself.She shares how seasons of life impact our choices, the tension between good opportunities and divine purpose, and the importance of protecting your capacity.A reminder we all need: you can’t do it all — and you don’t have to.💬 Key Quote“Sometimes where I still struggle, believe it or not, sometimes it's with just taking that pause in work.”Guest InfoWebsite: www.cassandrarhill.comSocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformationforblackwomen/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TransformationAgentBlackWomenFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransformationagentforblackwomenLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What storms in life have shaped you?Master Life Coach, best-selling author, and speaker Cassandra Hill joins me to share her incredible journey of transformation. From corporate burnout and health challenges to building a life and career grounded in faith and resilience, Cassandra’s story is one of triumph through adversity.We talk about:✨Planting seeds and trusting the process✨How storms shape our growth✨Black women navigating corporate America✨Pivoting into new seasons of purpose✨Boundaries, wellness, and self-careWhether you’re facing challenges, dreaming of your next chapter, or looking for inspiration to keep going, Cassandra’s wisdom will meet you right where you are.Guest InfoWebsite: www.cassandrarhill.comSocialsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/transformationforblackwomen/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TransformationAgentBlackWomenFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/thetransformationagentforblackwomen💬 Key Quotes“Don’t wish the storm away. There are lessons to be learned from it, grow from it, heal from it.”“Your job doesn’t love you. Let go of that idea now.”“What’s for you is for you — no one else can do it the way you do.” “Sometimes saying no is just as important as saying yes.”“You will birth into that beautiful butterfly. Appreciate the transformation journey.”📚 Resources MentionedCassandra’s devotional: He Restores My Soul: Triumph Through AdversityCassandra’s Linktree: linktr.ee/healercassandraRyze Mushroom Coffee partnership (with code TRANSFORMATIONFORBLACKWOMEN15)Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife📂 Section Markers01:06 Section 1: Planting Seeds, Weathering Storms, and Finding Purpose29:47 Section 2: Pivots, Boundaries, and the Butterfly Journey 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Workplace Wellness and Policy Change02:49 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Personal Growth05:26 The Importance of Sharing Stories and Embracing Grief07:49 Frameworks for Coaching and Personal Development10:28 Aligning Daily Actions with Vision and Goals13:07 The Transition from Corporate to Entrepreneurship15:32 Challenges Faced by Black Women in the Workforce18:18 The Impact of Leaving the Workforce21:12 Innovative Solutions and Community Support23:59 Finding Purpose and Monetizing Skills29:59 Embracing Change and Growth35:08 The Expiration of Relationships37:33 Navigating Health and Safety Concerns40:27 Prioritizing Self-Care in Uncertain Times42:37 Finding Joy in Simple Pleasures48:33 The Beauty of Transformation

What small thing made YOU happy today? 🌸🌮In this bonus clip, Dr. Brittany Peters shares her easy yes (showing up for community), her hard no (also showing up for community), and her daily practice of finding joy in small things — from tacos to BOGO flowers. She also reflects on the challenge of trusting intuition and taking action when you already know the answer. Guest Info·      Website: https://www.leadclinically.com/·      Socials: @leadclinically Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Are you giving yourself the same energy you give to your job?In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Brittany Peters, behavioral health expert, licensed clinician, and educator, brings wisdom, humor, and deep vulnerability to the Work is Third podcast. We explore the socialization of productivity culture, the survival strategies that many high-achieving women carry into adulthood, and the importance of rewriting our personal “policies and procedures” to include rest, joy, and boundaries. From 5 a.m. workouts to Half Dome hikes, from tacos to gratitude practices, Brittany reminds us that honoring our own time is not selfish — it’s necessary. We discuss how marginalized communities lose time through systemic inequities, how to protect our calendars, and why affirming “I have enough, I do enough, I am enough” can shift everything.Guest Info·      Website: https://www.leadclinically.com/·      Socials: @leadclinically📚 Resources MentionedThe Joyful Rebellion newsletter & Five-Minute Rebellion challengeWasfia Nazreen (first Bangladeshi woman to climb the Seven Summits)Wheeler Peak, NM (highest point in New Mexico)Yosemite’s Half Dome hike (lottery permit system)Research on racial inequities in wait times for services: Examining inequality in the time cost of waiting 💬 Key Quotes“You have enough. You do enough. And you are enough.” – Dr. Brittany Peters“Sometimes what we do to get to where we are, we don’t shift once we arrive.” – Dr. Brittany Peters“What if I valued myself as much as I value this company that I work for?” – Dawn Hunter“Rest is not nothing. Rest is something.” – Dr. Brittany Peters“The only marker that matters is your own.” – Dr. Brittany Peters📂 Section Markers01:03 Section 1: Hiking Goals, Survival Strategies, and Shifting Habits26:01 Section 2: Calendars, Systemic Time Theft, and Reclaiming Enough 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Embracing In-Person Connections01:45 Creating Space for Self-Care04:26 The Importance of Movement and Stretching07:32 Challenging Productivity Culture10:11 Setting and Achieving Personal Goals13:22 The Journey of Hiking and Outdoor Adventures16:09 Training for Physical Challenges18:56 The Value of Preparation and Persistence21:57 Exploring the Highest Points in Each State25:29 Scheduling Self-Care: Honoring Personal Time27:46 The Importance of Boundaries: Saying No to Others30:06 Time Management: The Value of Our Time31:55 Accountability in Time Management: Holding Others Responsible35:29 Shifting Perspectives: From Survival to Self-Care39:24 Small Steps to Self-Care: Celebrating Daily Wins42:36 Reframing Work Culture: Prioritizing Self-Worth45:21 Affirmations: You Are Enough Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Would someone describe you as a fluff ball? In this bonus clip, Joshua Jackson answers four lighthearted but revealing questions: what’s easy to say yes to, what’s hard to say no to, what he does well when it comes to joy and rest, and where he still struggles.His answers? Hope, joy, celebrating everything, and recognizing his own softness. It’s a vulnerable and uplifting reminder that joy is worth protecting, that connection matters, and that even in messy times, we can always return to ourselves.Guest Socials·      IG @risingroots2025·      Tiktok @risingroots2025·      Facebook: L Joshua Jackson📚 Resources / Mentions Andor (Disney+ series)Capoeira name “Barauna” (Tree that falls and rises again)Superman (recent movie)References to Orishas (Elegba, Obatala, Olorun)💬 Key Quotes “Hope is easy for me. We will make it.”“Oppression only works if they’re constantly on our necks—and there’s not enough of them.”“Any excuse for joy—I’m celebrating everything. It’s Monday, we celebrate. It’s Tuesday, we celebrate.”“I’m a fluff ball. I should notice that more and enjoy being.”Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Have you ever been fun-employed?Joshua Jackson joins Work is Third for a conversation about confidence, worthiness, and the messy beauty of becoming. From “fun-employment” and financial struggles to lessons from elders and mentors, Joshua shares how self-love, grief, and joy are intertwined. We dive into the concept of “distress recordings” from re-evaluation co-counseling, explore the liberation of men and masculinity, and reflect on how patterns from childhood shape us as adults. This episode is about shedding old scripts, embracing the full spectrum of our emotions, and choosing love as a foundation for work, relationships, and community.Guest SocialsIG @risingroots2025Tiktok @risingroots2025Facebook: L Joshua Jackson📚 Resources MentionedWorthy by Jamie Kern LimaLiberation of Men by John Irwin, Harvey Jackins, and Charlie GrenierProfessors Justin Emeka and Caroline Jackson-Smith (Oberlin College)Weedie Braimah, Hands of Time (album)Re-evaluation Co-Counseling (concept & practice), https://www.rc.org/Coco Peila (artist, educator, and Joshua’s partner), Instagram @cocopeila + newsletterKendrick Lamar, United in Grief💬 Key Quotes“Confidence can falter, but worthiness never changes.”“Fun-employed… it’s rough, but it’s real.”“We are the character playing a role that no longer serves us.”“The depth to which you can feel joy is the depth to which you can feel grief.”“When I save you, heal you, love you, support you—I am doing the same for me and my people.”“Work isn’t even on the list right now. We’re just talking about how to be better humans.”📂 Section Markers01:10 Section 1: Systems, Masculinity, and the Searchfor Care28:55 Section 2: Breaking Through and Belonging 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Revisiting Connections: A Warm Welcome01:28 Confidence and Worthiness: A Deep Dive04:10 Navigating Life's Messiness: Embracing Growth12:59 The Importance of Self-Love: Foundations of Success17:39 Love and Relationships: Reflections on Modern Connections21:18 Liberation and Masculinity: A Critical Examination24:11 Listening and Leading: The Role of Men in Society28:10 Understanding Distress Recordings: Healing from the Past32:13 The Impact of Late-Night Habits on Adult Life34:29 The Importance of Setting Boundaries37:25 Exploring Early Childhood Conditioning39:05 The Role of Systemic Issues in Parenting40:32 The Historical Context of Distress Recordings42:27 The Power of Co-Counseling for Healing44:53 The Interconnection of Grief and Joy50:05 The Importance of Sharing Personal Stories51:19 The Need for Conversations on Masculinity53:22 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What can a pizza party teach us about joy, boundaries, andasking for help?In this bonus clip, Alicia Justice shares why it’s always yes (and almost never no) for her niece and nephews—and how that shapes the way she thinks about joy, boundaries, and asking for help.💬Quote of Note:“Girl, sit your behind down and ask for help.”Themes:Auntie joy and liberationSaying yes and no with intentionProtecting peace and asking for helpLet’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What can feather boas, therapy, and TikTok teach us about joy, boundaries, and belonging? In this edition of Work is Third, Dr. Alicia Justice talks about what it means to force joy when life feels heavy, the liberating power of therapy, and how self-expression through color and fashion becomes an act of resistance and self-love. Alicia shares stories of her journey: claiming space as a first generation scholar, navigating church and cultural messages about humility, and embracing joy as both practice and survival.We also laugh about childhood boas, mismatched accessories, and playing dress up in our closets as adults. Along the way, Alicia reminds us: we don’t have to earn our worth, we don’t have to do all the things, and we’re still amazing even on the hard days.✨ Subscribe to Work is Third and join the movement at workisthird.com. Keywordsliberation, joy, human experience, authenticity, societal norms, currency, resources, self-expression, color, childhood stories📂 Section Markers01:41 Section 1: From Giddy to Green: Joy, Color, and Childhood Stories33:36 Section 2: Breaking Through and Belonging 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Giddy Anticipation03:36 Rebooking the Japan Trip06:10 The Joy of Color and Personal Style14:10 Childhood Memories and Fashion Choices19:46 Therapy and the Journey to Joy24:43 The Importance of Self-Awareness26:47 Therapy: A Path to Self-Discovery32:42 Embracing Age and Self-Acceptance37:40 The Power of Affirmation and Support38:35 Cultural Influences on Self-Perception41:26 Breaking Free from Guilt and Responsibility42:44 Curating a Positive Online Experience50:35 Curating Happiness Beyond Work 💬 Quotes to hold on to: “I don’t play about my mentals. Your mind can take you places a plane and a rocket can’t.”“You don’t have to do all the things.”“I’m still who I said I am, even in this pain.”“I’m not responsible for your distraction—let me be fly.”“Care has to be in alignment with my identity and how I want to show up in the world.”Resources Mentioned:Joyful by Ingrid Fetell LeeThe Artist’s Way by Julia CameronPoem “Let Them” (author often attributed to Keishorne Scott)Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

What’s easy to say yes to — and why is it so hard to say no?In this bonus clip from my conversation with Gnora Mahs,I ask my four favorite questions about boundaries, joy, and self-care. Gnora shares her insights on joy, boundaries, and self-care. She discusses her philosophy of saying yes to experiences, the challenges of saying no, and how she navigates work-life balance. With a humorous take on her fear of butterflies and a candid reflection on her struggles with physical activity, Gnora offers a relatable glimpse into her life and the importance of maintaining boundaries for mental well-being.Keywordsjoy, self-care, boundaries, personal growth, experiences, mental health, work-life balance, food, fear, physical activity 💬 Quotes to hold on to: ·       “Life is about experiences. I’ll say yes to almost anything under a hundred bucks.” ·       “It’s really hard for me to say no when someone genuinely needs help.” ·       “You will be hard pressed to see me working outside of nine to five.” ·       “Sometimes the first thing I cut when I feel overwhelmed is the very thing that helps me—moving my body.” ·       “Even small stories, like my fear of butterflies, can shape how I think about boundaries.”  Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Joy doesn’t just come from self-care — it grows when we invest in our communities.In this episode of Work is Third, I sit down with my friend and community-builder Gnora Mahs to talk about the surprising ways joy and connection show up in our lives. Gnora shares how baking sourdough bread for neighbors, making friends at the dog park, and even emailing city council about crosswalks can spark community and joy.We also talk about road trips, reading weeks, and our visit to the Museum of Bad Art — all reminders of how joy, rest, and community overlap with the boundaries we set for ourselves.  This conversation echoes themes we’ve heard across other episodes: the restorative power of travel, the necessity of relationships, and the courage it takes to show up—for ourselves and for our communities. What You’ll Hear in This Episode:·      Investing in community brings joy and fulfillment.·      Road trips offer unique experiences and opportunities for connection.·      Local advocacy can lead to tangible change.·      Finding joy in absurdity can enhance our experiences.·      Shared interests create lasting connections. Keywordstravel, community, joy, relationships, advocacy, workculture, self-care, road trips, local engagement, personal growth, embracing opportunity, adventure 📂 Section Markers01:09 Section 1: Road Trips, Reading Weeks, and Resetting28:32 Section 2: Ways We Build Community 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates02:13 The Importance of Travel and Resetting04:45 Road Trip Adventures and Reflections07:45 Work-Life Balance and Taking Time Off10:39 Innovative Work Practices: Summer Fridays and Reading Weeks13:21 Building Community Through Shared Interests15:55 Navigating Political Differences in Community17:52 The Role of Food in Building Connections20:43 The Things that Connect Us29:40 The Magical Bread Fairy30:48 Building Community Through Local Action34:49 Advocating for Change in Our Neighborhoods38:31 Investing in Community Relationships41:43 Finding Joy in Community Engagement44:58 The Importance of Shared Experiences49:15 Closing Reflections on Community and Friendship 💬 Quotes to hold on to: ·       “Joy comes from investing in my community—even when it feels like hard work.” –Gnora Mahs·       “One of the ways we can best advocate for ourselves is by finding connections with others.” – Dawn Hunter·       “It’d be easier to scroll on TikTok all night, but I put my phone away, say hello, and learn people’s names. That’s how community starts.” – Gnora Mahs·       “Sometimes the most radical thing we can do is care about our neighbors and show up for small changes.” – Dawn Hunter·       “Say yes to more weird sh*t—that’s how friendship and joy happen.” – Gnora Mahs Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Boundaries are a skill, and Veatrice shows us how to practice them with kindness.In this bonus clip from my conversation with Veatrice Farrell, we talk about the art of saying no without losing your kindness or your joy. Veatrice shares why boundaries are a learned skill, how TV shows can reflect the America we want to live in, and why sometimes a simple “no” is the most loving thing you can say. We also swap laughs about spicy food, Bridgerton, and her binge-worthy detective show lineup. What You’ll Hear in This Clip:Why boundaries are a skill worth practicingHow to say “no” without guilt or resentmentThe connection between boundaries and self-respectPop culture moments that reflect inclusivity naturallyFinding joy in the small, everyday thingsKeywordsboundaries, joy, self-care, pop culture, saying no,identity, history, kindness, personal growth, emotional health Resources & Mentions:Bridgerton (Netflix series)Bosch: Legacy (Amazon Freevee series)Reacher (Amazon Prime series)The Better Boundaries Brief – Subscribe here💬 Quotes to hold on to:"Their expectation of you can’t be more important than what you want for yourself.""This is the America I want to live in—one where everyone belongs without it feeling forced." Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

"What if joy is the greatest form of resistance?"In this episode, I sit down with my friend and local advocate, Veatrice Farrell, for a conversation that blends history, identity, race, religion, and a whole lot of joy. Veatrice is a two-time cancer survivor whose outlook on life is as grounded as it is uplifting. We talk about reframing challenges, setting boundaries, embracing joy as resistance, and why legacy and history matter. This is a conversation about living fully without letting others take away your joy. What You’ll Hear in This Episode:How joy can be an act of resistance in the face of adversityLife lessons from cancer survivorship and reframing mortalityThe connection between digital inclusion, community capacity building, and systemic changeBoundaries, self-preservation, and knowing when to say “no”Family stories, heritage, and the legacy we leave behindResources & Mentions:The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre DumasBlack Tudors: The Untold Story by Miranda KaufmannAll I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten by Robert FulghumLaw & Order (TV series) and Bosch: Legacy (TV series)FAMU (Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University)Keywordsboundaries, saying no, personal growth, emotionalintelligence, self-care, communication skills, kindness, personal development, newsletter, emotional impact, cancer, mortality 📂 Section Markers01:26 Section 1: Holding Joy No Matter What28:19 Section 2: Identity, Legacy, and Joyful Resistance 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Joyful Perspectives05:59 Navigating Life's Challenges with Joy12:01 The Power of Emotional Control17:01 Identity and Its Impact on Life22:59 Work, Purpose, and Personal Growth28:15 Politics and Personal Well-being30:55 Balancing Joy and Responsibility37:36 Reflections on Life and Loss💬 Quotes to hold on to: "No one is important enough to make you feel not joyful.""The resistance that we have is joy.""If you’ve made a decision to do something different, the help will appear.""You don’t get to have agency over me just because you can make me angry.""Part of joy is knowing when to step back so you can keep showing up."Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

Say yes to new experiences and no to guilt-driven expectations.In this bonus clip, LaVonna Roth talks about her love of new experiences, her evolving relationship with fitness and movement, and the constant challenge of managing focus in a digital world. From social media time limits to perfectionist to-do lists, this conversation is equal parts real and refreshing. 🎧 Highlights include:Why saying yes to new experiences is her missionHow redefining "working out" helped her reset expectationsThe mental load of Instagram spirals and productivity shameFinding joy in messiness and creative chaosListen in, laugh a little, and let go of the pressure to be perfectly productive.Keywordsboundaries, new experiences, productivity, success, focus, self-care, screen time, personal growth, accountability, joy💬 Quote to hold on to:“I don’t say no to new experiences—unless I really don’t want to do it. That’s the boundary.” Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

How much control do you really have over your time—and your mindset? In this episode, LaVonna Roth joins Dawn to talk about the tension between productivity and presence, guilt and growth.They dive into boundary-setting as an act of self-trust, rethinking what makes a “successful” day, and why perfectionism still shows up even when we think we’ve conquered it.From the power of pause to the reality of menopause, this episode is packed with real talk, self-awareness, and strategies for honoring your capacity without losing your spark. If you’ve ever struggled with saying no, managing your energy, or fighting the feeling that it’s never enough, this one’s for you.🌟 Topics include:Control as both a boundary and a burdenWhat to-do lists reveal about usManaging perfectionism as a recovering perfectionistTravel, motherhood, and the power of presenceHow nature, sleep, and stillness restore us🎧 Listen in—and take what you need.Keywordshope, control, mindfulness, productivity, perfectionism,work-life balance, travel, leadership, self-care, boundaries TakeawaysPausing to reflect can lead to better decision-making.Perfectionism can hinder leadership effectiveness.Traveling intentionally enhances personal experiences.Self-care practices, like exercise and mindfulness, arevital.It's important to prioritize tasks effectively to avoidoverwhelm.Embracing new experiences can lead to personal growth.Control can be both a positive and negative force in ourlives. 📂 Section Markers01:07 Section 1: Control, Grounding, and the Art of the Pause34:15 Section 2: Routines, Rest, and Redefining Productivity 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Embracing Hope in Uncertainty02:27 The Power of Control and Boundaries04:56 Finding Presence in Nature07:55 The Importance of Pausing and Stillness10:01 Navigating Sleep and Productivity12:55 Managing Tasks and Priorities15:32 The Visionary vs. Integrator Dynamic18:20 Trusting Your Team and Letting Go of Perfection34:12 Language Matters: The Power of Words36:58 Embracing Imperfection: A Leadership Journey38:17 Vulnerability in Leadership: Learning from Mistakes39:44 Finding Balance: Work, Family, and Self-Care42:12 Redefining Success: The Role of a Working Mom44:38 Traveling with Intention: Experiences Over Obligations51:02 New Experiences: Embracing Life's Adventures55:08 Setting Boundaries: The Challenge of Saying No55:21 Control: A Double-Edged Sword57:52 Redefining Control and Boundaries57:54 Balancing Productivity and Rest 💬 Quotes to hold on to: “What I can control is what I can also take action on—and that just really guides me.” “I realized I was wasting so much brainpower trying to control things I couldn’t.”“Presence is where I feel like I can breathe.”“The to-do list started to feel like a way to fail every day.”“You’re showing me that you have a dream and you go for it. You’re teaching me the same.” — LaVonna’s daughter Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

“Sometimes just showing up in your paint-stained apron is the win.”In this funny and heartfelt bonus clip, Carmen reflects on the ease of showing up for others—and how she's learning to show up for herself, too. From therapy tips to fried rice and Drag Race, she shares how friends who say “I’m proud of you” for the little things can change everything. It’s a love letter to alone-but-together moments, emotional buffer days, and the people who make it safe to say no—and to say yes.Keywordsboundaries, rest, friendship, emotional support, saying no, self-care, therapy, showing up, introvert recovery, alone but together, mental health, Drag Race, gentle encouragement💬 Quotes to hold on to:"It’s okay to sleep on Sunday. It’s okay to take a nap. Your body is gonna need that.""Most people would be like, ‘Why are you proud of that?’ But it’s like—yeah, I came. I showed up. And that’s enough."Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter📸 Instagram: @workisthirdlife

“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

In this bonus clip, Julie Rocco reflects on the beauty of being a work in progress.Dawn Hunter and guest Julie Rocco slow down for a reflective moment about boundaries, compassion, and showing up for yourself. Julie opens up about:Why saying yes to family and friends comes easilyWhy saying no to those who need help is harderHow she balances empathy without self-sacrificeSimple ways to find rest in everyday moments Julie describes her personal journey as “Pardon my mess—I’m under construction,” a phrase that reminds us growth is messy, and boundaries are an act of self-compassion. Keywordswork, rest, boundaries, joy, opportunities, self-awareness, presence, gratitude, magic, conversations 💬 Key Quote from Julie:"Pardon my mess—I’m under construction." 🔗 Important Links Website:  https://whatiwouldhavemissed.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatiwouldhavemissedFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhatIWouldHaveMissed111/#Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to ⁠The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter⁠📸 Instagram: ⁠@workisthirdlife⁠

Julie Rocco shares her journey from survival to purpose, reminding us that time is precious—and action can’t wait.In this special episode of Work is Third, host Dawn Hunter sits down with her dear friend Julie Rocco, a suicide attempt survivor and founder of What I Would Have Missed, a suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention initiative. Julie shares her powerful story, reflecting on what it means to choose life, build community, and pursue purpose while honoring rest. Together, Dawn and Julie explore:The concept of “restorative days” and why rest isn’t always passiveThe life clock as a tool to make the most of your timeThe idea of “challenge by choice” and how supportive communities can foster courage The importance of sharing stories to save livesJulie’s initiative, What I Would Have Missed, amplifies the voices of suicide attempt survivors and offers hope to those who may feel alone. Referenced in this episode:The concept of “restorative days” and why rest isn’t always passive The life clock as a tool to make the most of your timeThe idea of “challenge by choice" and how supportive communities can foster courage The importance of sharing stories to save livesKeywordshealing, joy, restorative days, intention, procrastination, manifestation, community support, challenge by choice, storytelling, perfectionism, time management, values  📂 Section Markers01:36 Section 1: From Restorative Days to Life Clocks: Reclaiming Time and Purpose26:01 Section 2: What We Would Miss: Love, Legacy, and Choosing to Share Our Stories39:35 Section 3: Showing Up for Yourself and Living Your Values 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 The Journey from Intention to Action02:46 Understanding Restorative Practices05:19 The Power of Manifestation and Self-Talk08:04 Challenge by Choice: Embracing Fear10:51 The Role of Community in Personal Growth13:12 Finding Flow and Recognizing Resistance15:39 The Importance of the First Follower18:23 Navigating Personal and Professional Support21:05 The Initiative: What I Would Have Missed23:27 Living with Purpose and Overcoming Perfectionism34:01 The Power of Storytelling in Workplace Culture35:59 Burnout and the Importance of Rotating Priorities39:50 Navigating Commitments and Avoiding Overcommitment42:58 The Mel Robbins Method: Overcoming Procrastination45:12 Present Bias and Future Self Considerations48:55 The Importance of Family and Time Management50:24 Values in Action: Aligning Priorities with Commitments 💬 Quotes to hold on to:“The thing is… you think you have time. And I believe that all things may not happen in time.”"Perfection is the mute button on potentially saving a life."“The cup felt empty from pushing myself through productivity and things that matter to me.”“What a community, what a village, and what trust can do to help someone move into a space of personal courage.” If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact theSuicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. 🔗 Important Links Website:  https://whatiwouldhavemissed.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whatiwouldhavemissedFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhatIWouldHaveMissed111/# Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show onSpotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to ⁠The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter⁠📸 Instagram: ⁠@workisthirdlife⁠

What happens when you finally put the book down and look up?In this bonus clip, Terra shares how she finds magic in the in-between moments—reading for pleasure, chatting with strangers in a hot tub, and creating space to be fully present. We talk about the challenges of maintaining boundaries and self-awareness in a busy world, emphasizing the need to appreciate small moments and give oneself credit for progress. It’s as a reminder to leave room for joy and magic in everyday life. Keywordswork, rest, boundaries, joy, opportunities, self-awareness,presence, gratitude, magic, conversations 💬 Quotes to hold on to: “I love the magic. I believe in the magic. And if my life is full to the brim, there is no space for the magic.”"It’s just work." 🔗 Important Links Website:  https://www.bookandbottlestpete.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_and_bottle/Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to ⁠The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter⁠📸 Instagram: ⁠@workisthirdlife⁠

Can you succeed without giving 100%?In this episode of Work is Third, Terra Dunham-dog mom, book and wine lover, lifelong learner, self-proclaimed struggling overachiever, and founder of one of our favorite local gems, Book + Bottle, shares what it really looks like to chase big dreams while learning to slow down and let go of perfection.We talk about learning to do B+ work, building a team you can trust, the wisdom of a hot tub full of strangers, and how fiction can transport us in healing ways. If you've ever struggled to slow down or felt guilty for needing a break, this episode is for you.Topics Covered:The myth of giving 100%Overwork as identity and habitDelegating and trusting your teamMeditation, presence, and mini-resetsThe power of fiction and creative restReframing "busy" and redefining successBooks MentionedWe Should All Be Millionaires – Rachel RodgersYear of Yes – Shonda RhimesYes Man – Danny Wallace (mentioned via the Jim Carreymovie adaptation)Be Ready When the Luck Happens – Ina GartenMeasure What Matters – John DoerrHow to Not Always Be Working – Marlee GraceOver Work – Brigid SchulteThe Way of Integrity – Martha Beck Keywordsgratitude, teamwork, entrepreneurship, business independence, work-life balance, decision fatigue, mental health, meditation, boundaries, integrity 📂 Section Markers01:13 Section 1: Building a Business, Balancing a Life26:30 Section 2: Making Tough Decisions for Your Future Self 📌Episode Chapters/Timestamps00:00 Gratitude and Teamwork01:55 The Birth of Book & Bottle03:02 Navigating Business Independence05:16 Balancing Work and Business Ownership07:48 Decision Fatigue and Team Dynamics09:20 Learning from Your Team10:29 The Importance of Diverse Perspectives12:17 Defining Work and Personal Fulfillment14:04 The Pressure of Productivity16:21 Mental Health and Self-Care18:32 The Practice of Meditation21:07 Finding Balance in Life23:08 Measuring What Matters24:29 Color-Coding Life26:27 Seasons of Life and Change29:08 Making Tough Decisions31:12 Combining Socializing with Wellness33:19 Creative Ways to Stay Active and Social36:07 Recognizing Burnout and Taking Time Off37:45 Defining Work: Purpose vs. Job40:53 The Challenge of Overwork and Perfectionism45:02 Finding Balance and Integrity in Busy Lives50:11 Celebrating Relationships Beyond Accomplishments53:08 Finding Joy in Presence and Connection 💬 Quotes to hold on to:"I used to think giving 100% was the goal. Now I know that letting go is sometimes the real win.""I'm not showing up as my best self anywhere—and that's okay for now. This is just the season I’m in.""Reading is my meditation—when I lose myself in a book, everything else falls away.""I'm proud of building something that can exist without me. That’s not just success—it’s sustainability." 🔗 Important Links Website:  https://www.bookandbottlestpete.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/book_and_bottle/Let’s Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to ⁠The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter⁠📸 Instagram: ⁠@workisthirdlife⁠

Stillness is harder than it looks, but you can learn to embrace it.In this bonus clip, Hillary Van Dyke shares what’s currently on her “joy list”—from travel with chill friends to TV binges and the deep love she has for her baby niece. We also gush over the cinematic genius of Sinners (including her cousin’s epic camera work), and reflect on how hard it still is to let ourselves be still without guilt.This is a soft, warm moment about what it means to embrace joy without earning it—and how rest can be just as meaningful as motion.Let's Stay Connected🎧 Follow the show on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast app📬 Subscribe to ⁠The Joyful Rebellion Newsletter⁠📸 Instagram: ⁠@workisthirdlife⁠