Your Permission to Pause podcast brings inspiration, wisdom and candid conversations loaded with humour and advice that will support female leaders to rethink h...
Are you suffering from meeting overload? I’m exploring the world of meetings - specifically, the challenges and strategies behind making them truly matter. We've all experienced the frustration of unproductive meetings that seem to dominate our schedules. Hybrid meetings, in particular, can drain our mental energy as we navigate the complexities of blending in-person and online participants. That's why I’ll be discussing how to create more effective, intentional meetings whether they’re fully in-person or entirely online. Throughout this episode, we'll explore key frameworks to ensure every meeting you hold has a clear purpose, defined outcomes, a structured agenda, and the right participants. We'll also tackle common pitfalls like meeting overload, lack of follow-up, and the crucial role of leadership in modeling excellent facilitation skills. If you're ready to reclaim your time and transform your meeting culture, don’t miss this episode. Here are the Highlights:04:29 Rethink meetings for genuine connection and effectiveness.08:21 People passively accept calendar invites without thought.11:20 Rethink and improve meeting culture for productivity.14:04 Use agendas with questions for better outcomes.17:55 Control diary; attend necessary meetings only.22:03 Conclude meetings by recording agreed actions visibly.26:43 Information, conflict resolution, time management, emotional intelligence.28:43 Clarify decision-making process to avoid chaos.31:46 It’s better for the whole meeting to be in person or online. If you must go hybrid you need to be on point and have a creative agenda.Meet your host Jo CowlinJo Cowlin keeps it real.Some people might like to call her ‘a motivational people development expert’ but Jo would rather you didn’t.Jo is a no-nonsense, straight-talking northernerShe is also a transformational coach, facilitator and game changer. She has a passion for results and is dedicated to helping leaders realise their aspirations without compromising their wellbeing.She dares individuals to be different by eliminating corporate BS, life coaching, and hand-holding, and instead encourages breaking through barriers to gain clarity and step into personal power for a life without limits. Passionate about learning and growth, she is dedicated to delivering results, drawing from her own experiences of overcoming corporate burnout, overwhelm, and a lack of direction. She turned this all around, and created a way forward that brought the balance that she needed to thrive no matter what life threw at her. Resilience and a proactive approach to mental wellbeing is at the core of all of her work which is predominantly aimed at helping leaders and their teams refocus, regroup and rapidly adjust to change. With a background in pharmaceutical leadership and expertise across various sectors, she offers coaching and leadership programs tailored to individual and organisational needs.When Jo isn’t transforming company cultures, you’ll find her managing her 3 teenage girls’ busy social calendars. She’s a dab hand in the kitchen and true to form, loves to keep her food real. And if she isn’t doing either of those you will find her out in nature walking her dog or lifting a barbell in the gym. Find out more about Jo here: https://jocowlin.com/Connect with Jo: Instagram:
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S2 Ep 02: Allyship with Lyndsey Oliver
Lyndsey Oliver is an expert in Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I), and my very dear friend. She joined me to talk about the intricate and essential concept of allyship. Whether you're navigating the complexities of maternity transitions, grappling with societal biases, or seeking to amplify marginalised voices in your workplace, this episode is full of wisdom to help you lead with purpose and compassion. Don't miss this powerful conversation that redefines what it means to be an ally in today's diverse world.Here are the Highlights:02:05 How marriage, motherhood and work cultures led Lyndsey to start a business.07:53 Learning: Examine personal, societal, and organisational beliefs.14:19 Championing allyship for diverse workplace adjustments.21:44 Educate yourself, ask questions, and start discussions.32:13 Privilege influences conversations in organisational hierarchies.38:30 Authentic representation requires inclusive, not tokenistic, hiring.44:19 Take ownership: Learn, unlearn, understand, and grow.47:24 Admiration: David Attenborough's insights on biodiversity.Meet your host Jo CowlinJo Cowlin keeps it real.Some people might like to call her ‘a motivational people development expert’ but Jo would rather you didn’t.Jo is a no-nonsense, straight-talking northernerShe is also a transformational coach, facilitator and game changer. She has a passion for results and is dedicated to helping leaders realise their aspirations without compromising their wellbeing.She dares individuals to be different by eliminating corporate BS, life coaching, and hand-holding, and instead encourages breaking through barriers to gain clarity and step into personal power for a life without limits. Passionate about learning and growth, she is dedicated to delivering results, drawing from her own experiences of overcoming corporate burnout, overwhelm, and a lack of direction. She turned this all around, and created a way forward that brought the balance that she needed to thrive no matter what life threw at her. Resilience and a proactive approach to mental wellbeing is at the core of all of her work which is predominantly aimed at helping leaders and their teams refocus, regroup and rapidly adjust to change. With a background in pharmaceutical leadership and expertise across various sectors, she offers coaching and leadership programs tailored to individual and organisational needs.When Jo isn’t transforming company cultures, you’ll find her managing her 3 teenage girls’ busy social calendars. She’s a dab hand in the kitchen and true to form, loves to keep her food real. And if she isn’t doing either of those you will find her out in nature walking her dog or lifting a barbell in the gym. Find out more about Jo here: https://jocowlin.com/Connect with Jo: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocowlin/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-cowlin/About Lyndsey OliverLyndsey is driven by a purpose: to develop and transform organisations, workplaces, and leaders toward a more consciously inclusive future. Currently serving as Head of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) at BaxterStorey, she leads the charge in defining and executing an ED&I strategy, ambition and delivering the 1-, 3-, and 5-year action plans. The ambition? To set the standard and be recognised for having the most inclusive culture in hospitality. Throughout her career, Lyndsey has made a significant impact across various industries and businesses, working as an ED&I consultant...
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S2 Ep 01: I Don’t Have Time to Rest!
Rest is vital for Productivity. In this episode, I'm discussing the often-overlooked necessity of true rest for busy, driven women. I explore various dimensions of rest - creative, emotional, social, and spiritual - each serving as a vital component for holistic well-being. I share personal anecdotes and insight on how to incorporate these restful practices into our busy lives, reminding you that rest is not a luxury, but a crucial ingredient for a balanced, fulfilling life. Tune in to discover how you can recharge effectively and embrace rest as an important part of your day.Here are the Highlights:02:07 Rest is a vital, and often overlooked productivity hack.04:00 Understanding rest types is crucial for a balanced life.10:17 Flower Workshop; embracing creativity but also restful.14:17 Mental rest: essential to counter decision fatigue.19:56 Creative outlets reduce stress and restore balance.29:51 Spiritual rest: finding meaning beyond daily tasks.33:08 Rest redefined as essential for productivity and well-being.36:53 Practice mindfulness and set boundaries.Meet your host Jo CowlinJo Cowlin keeps it real.Some people might like to call her ‘a motivational people development expert’ but Jo would rather you didn’t.Jo is a no-nonsense, straight-talking northernerShe is also a transformational coach, facilitator and game changer. She has a passion for results and is dedicated to helping leaders realise their aspirations without compromising their wellbeing.She dares individuals to be different by eliminating corporate BS, life coaching, and hand-holding, and instead encourages breaking through barriers to gain clarity and step into personal power for a life without limits. Passionate about learning and growth, she is dedicated to delivering results, drawing from her own experiences of overcoming corporate burnout, overwhelm, and a lack of direction. She turned this all around, and created a way forward that brought the balance that she needed to thrive no matter what life threw at her. Resilience and a proactive approach to mental wellbeing is at the core of all of her work which is predominantly aimed at helping leaders and their teams refocus, regroup and rapidly adjust to change. With a background in pharmaceutical leadership and expertise across various sectors, she offers coaching and leadership programs tailored to individual and organisational needs.When Jo isn’t transforming company cultures, you’ll find her managing her 3 teenage girls’ busy social calendars. She’s a dab hand in the kitchen and true to form, loves to keep her food real. And if she isn’t doing either of those you will find her out in nature walking her dog or lifting a barbell in the gym. Find out more about Jo here: https://jocowlin.com/Connect with Jo: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocowlin/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-cowlin/Produced by winteraudio.co.uk
Welcome to the finale of the very first season of Your Permission to Pause! For this special episode, I'll be talking about the fundamental themes that have shaped this journey, offering profound insights for driven female leaders striving to harmonise ambition with well-being. Join me for a discussion on clear communication, connection, and collaboration, and discover their transformative effects on leadership and personal growth. I'm reflecting on the highs and lows of the past 13 episodes, recounting invaluable lessons and preparing us for an even more inspiring second season. Tune in and give yourself the ultimate permission to pause, reflect, and rejuvenate.Here are the Highlights:03:27 Become better leaders by pausing and reflecting.09:22 Align actions with goals and recognise overtaking responsibility.14:26 Prioritise long-term gains over instant gratification.19:01 Leaders need boundaries for well-being and effectiveness.25:06 Imposter syndrome signals growth and should be celebrated.30:38 Plan transitions thoughtfully considering employee well-being.37:20 Replace limiting beliefs with empowering future visions.Meet your host Jo CowlinJo Cowlin keeps it real.Some people might like to call her ‘a motivational people development expert’ but Jo would rather you didn’t.Jo is a no-nonsense, straight-talking northernerShe is also a transformational coach, facilitator and game changer. She has a passion for results and is dedicated to helping leaders realise their aspirations without compromising their wellbeing.She dares individuals to be different by eliminating corporate BS, life coaching, and hand-holding, and instead encourages breaking through barriers to gain clarity and step into personal power for a life without limits. Passionate about learning and growth, she is dedicated to delivering results, drawing from her own experiences of overcoming corporate burnout, overwhelm, and a lack of direction. She turned this all around, and created a way forward that brought the balance that she needed to thrive no matter what life threw at her. Resilience and a proactive approach to mental wellbeing is at the core of all of her work which is predominantly aimed at helping leaders and their teams refocus, regroup and rapidly adjust to change. With a background in pharmaceutical leadership and expertise across various sectors, she offers coaching and leadership programs tailored to individual and organisational needs.When Jo isn’t transforming company cultures, you’ll find her managing her 3 teenage girls’ busy social calendars. She’s a dab hand in the kitchen and true to form, loves to keep her food real. And if she isn’t doing either of those you will find her out in nature walking her dog or lifting a barbell in the gym. Find out more about Jo here: https://jocowlin.com/Connect with Jo: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocowlin/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-cowlin/Produced by winteraudio.co.uk
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Ep 13: Rewriting Your Story: Creating the Future You Desire
Unlock the potential of your best tomorrow by redefining the stories you tell yourself today. I’m discussing the transformative concept of the future self. Discover how the narratives we create shape our reality and learn practical strategies to break free from self-limiting beliefs. Tune in to explore the four-stage approach to becoming the best version of yourself, one intentional step at a time. Whether you want to boost your confidence, enhance your leadership skills, or simply find more joy in your daily life, this episode holds the keys to your personal evolution.Here are the Highlights:01:01 Self-narratives shape and constrain our potential.04:41 Brain distorts feedback to fit existing self-beliefs.07:11 Beliefs impact relationships and perceived opportunities.12:05 Redefine stories, and create empowering future selves.15:18 Change happens gradually, then suddenly, with persistence.19:35 Gain clarity, set goals, and create action steps.22:38 Reprogram thinking, align actions, start small, build.23:52 Strategic leaders set boundaries, prioritise, visualise, and act.Meet your host Jo CowlinJo Cowlin keeps it real.Some people might like to call her ‘a motivational people development expert’ but Jo would rather you didn’t.Jo is a no-nonsense, straight-talking northernerShe is also a transformational coach, facilitator and game changer. She has a passion for results and is dedicated to helping leaders realise their aspirations without compromising their wellbeing.She dares individuals to be different by eliminating corporate BS, life coaching, and hand-holding, and instead encourages breaking through barriers to gain clarity and step into personal power for a life without limits. Passionate about learning and growth, she is dedicated to delivering results, drawing from her own experiences of overcoming corporate burnout, overwhelm, and a lack of direction. She turned this all around, and created a way forward that brought the balance that she needed to thrive no matter what life threw at her. Resilience and a proactive approach to mental wellbeing is at the core of all of her work which is predominantly aimed at helping leaders and their teams refocus, regroup and rapidly adjust to change. With a background in pharmaceutical leadership and expertise across various sectors, she offers coaching and leadership programs tailored to individual and organisational needs.When Jo isn’t transforming company cultures, you’ll find her managing her 3 teenage girls’ busy social calendars. She’s a dab hand in the kitchen and true to form, loves to keep her food real. And if she isn’t doing either of those you will find her out in nature walking her dog or lifting a barbell in the gym. Find out more about Jo here: https://jocowlin.com/Connect with Jo: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocowlin/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-cowlin/Produced by winteraudio.co.uk
Your Permission to Pause podcast brings inspiration, wisdom and candid conversations loaded with humour and advice that will support female leaders to rethink how they approach leadership and life.
In this podcast you will hear real stories that have fuelled Jo’s growth as well as themes that have emerged from her work in the leadership field. As a self-confessed ‘work in progress’ Jo keeps her content real and accessible by bringing you up front conversations where she and her guests share frankly and transparently their trials, tribulations and lessons along the leadership path.
The episodes will leave you with powerful insights and practical ways that will help you grow and navigate your way through leadership and life. Whether you are experienced, new or an aspiring female leader, these conversations will put the spring back in your step.
Meet your host Jo Cowlin
Jo Cowlin keeps it real.
Some people might like to call her ‘a motivational people development expert’ but Jo would rather you didn’t.
Jo is a no-nonsense, straight-talking northerner
She is also a transformational coach, facilitator and game changer. She has a passion for results and is dedicated to helping leaders realise their aspirations without compromising their wellbeing.
She dares individuals to be different by eliminating corporate BS, life coaching, and hand-holding, and instead encourages breaking through barriers to gain clarity and step into personal power for a life without limits. She specialises in taking individuals out of their comfort zones, uncovering obstacles, and reigniting their zest for life, bringing back excitement, purpose, and magic in all areas.
Passionate about learning and growth, she is dedicated to delivering results, drawing from her own experiences of overcoming corporate burnout, overwhelm, and a lack of direction. She turned this all around, and created a way forward that brought the balance that she needed to thrive no matter what life threw at her. She is acutely aware of how stress without strategies that help you thrive, not just survive can chip away at your self-esteem and self-worth. Resilience and a proactive approach to mental wellbeing is at the core of all of her work which is predominantly aimed at helping leaders and their teams refocus, regroup and rapidly adjust to change. With a background in pharmaceutical leadership and expertise across various sectors, she offers coaching and leadership programs tailored to individual and organisational needs.
When Jo isn’t transforming company cultures, you’ll find her managing her 3 teenage girls’ busy social calendars. She’s a dab hand in the kitchen and true to form, loves to keep her food real. And if she isn’t doing either of those you will find her out in nature walking her dog or lifting a barbell in the gym.
Find out more about Jo Cowlin here: https://jocowlin.com/
Connect with Jo:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocowlin/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-cowlin/
Portugal