Your Permission to Pause

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...

Discover the core elements that distinguish high-performing teams from dysfunctional ones. In this episode, I share how focusing on clarity, connection, and collaboration can elevate team dynamics and impact well-being. From reducing stress on the nervous system to fostering a supportive work environment, you’ll discover practical tips to revolutionise your leadership approach. Tune in for a power...

You know that feeling when your job changes overnight, and you're left navigating uncharted waters? In this episode, I explore the intricacies of workplace transitions and the fine line between being stretched and feeling stressed. I share how understanding individual capacities for growth, coupled with proactive planning, can make all the difference during these critical moments. I share personal...

If we don’t feel safe, how can we be productive at work? In this episode, I share practical techniques to help you build a resilient team, such as identifying unique values, practising the 'speak once before speaking twice' rule, and engaging in gratitude and appreciation circles. I explore the critical role of constructive feedback and growth mindsets in promoting an authentic and creative workpl...

Join me, Jo Cowlin, in this episode of Your Permission to Pause as I explore the origins of the term "imposter syndrome," how it manifests, and why I believe labelling ourselves in this way might not be particularly helpful. We'll discuss the imposter cycle, perfectionism, and the fear of failure and success, along with the denial of competence - key traits often linked to imposter syndrome. More...

In today's episode, we're discovering the secrets of a successful mid-year review. As we approach the midpoint of the year, it's the perfect time to pause, reflect, and recalibrate our goals to ensure we're on track for success. Many senior leaders see this process as merely a tick-box exercise, but it can be so much more. By taking a deep dive into your achievements, challenges, and areas for gro...

In today's episode, we're delving into a critical topic for personal and professional growth: the power of boundaries. We'll explore what boundaries are, why they matter, and the unique challenges women face when setting them. Plus, I'll provide practical tips and a helpful acronym, FREEDOM, to guide you in establishing and maintaining effective boundaries in your life. Whether it's safeguarding y...

In today's episode, we're talking about support groups, communities, and networks that can help to foster leadership success and personal well-being. I'm also exploring the unique challenges women face in leadership, from imposter syndrome to work-life balance, and discuss how building intentional, supportive communities can be foundational for resilience and growth.  Join me as we unpack str...

Today we are exploring the thought-provoking concept of "Choose Your Hard." Leadership, much like life, presents us with constant challenges. Whether it's giving feedback, managing your team's development, or even committing to personal fitness, hard choices are inevitable. But what if we could reframe these choices, focusing on what best aligns with our long-term goals? In this episode, I explore...

Today, we’re exploring a topic that doesn't just impact your work, but your entire well-being. As a driven female leader, you know that great leadership isn't just about managing projects and hitting targets.  It's also about managing stress and taking care of yourself. In this episode I explore the intricate relationship between stress, hormones, and leadership, and I'll share personal stori...

In this episode, we will be exploring the concept known as the "helper's high” and examining its double-edged sword on our well-being and leadership effectiveness.  The good feeling we get from helping others is scientifically backed by the release of hormones like oxytocin and dopamine, which bolster our mood and overall health. But what happens when the desire to help leads us down a path o...

Today’s episode is a guide to creating margin in your bustling life. Have you ever found yourself scrambling at the eleventh hour because life threw a curveball at you? Think of this episode as your sanctuary from the storm of busyness. We’ll explore together not just how to cope with the unexpected, but how to weave essential space into your days for rest, reflection, and resilience.  So whe...

Welcome to the first ever episode of Your Permission to Pause podcast! The podcast where we rediscover the power of stepping back, reflecting, and recharging in our  overstimulated  world. I'm your host, Jo Cowlin, and in today’s episode, "Let’s work Smarter, Not Harder," we're going on a journey to unlock the secrets of maximising productivity without burning out. Have you ever felt lik...

Introducing Your Permission to Pause, a podcast dedicated to helping you become more intentional in how you live your life and lead your people. Join Jo Cowlin, a no-nonsense Northerner and development expert with over 20 years of experience working with ambitious, driven leaders. She invites you to create a path to success without abandoning yourself or your well-being in the process.  Join...