Imagine if you could follow your ambition without drowning in it – how much more fulfilling life would be? That’s what Pause Purpose Play is all about – finding balance over burnout by setting you free from needing to be perfect, so that you can take action and get started with what matters to you, instead of getting stuck in procrastination and holding yourself back with self-limiting beliefs your inner critic tells you. In this podcast, Michaela Thomas, Clinical Psychologist, Couples Therapist and founder of The Thomas Connection, shares bite-sized learning around psychology of performance, habits, self-confidence, stress, anxiety, perfectionism, parenthood and couples relationships. The podcast will mix solo episodes with guest interviews; diving deep into their professional zone of genius and learning about how they have found pause, purpose and play in their life and in their work. My new book, The Lasting Connection, is available now from all good bookshops.
Episodes
8 hours ago
Resistance to rest, and rest as resistance
8 hours ago
8 hours ago
In this episode of the Pause Purpose Play podcast, I tackle the often-neglected concept of rest, especially for individuals with ADHD and perfectionists. I present rest as the best-kept secret of high performance, crucial for achieving more and preventing burnout. The episode explores the resistance many feel towards allowing themselves to rest, labelling rest as an act of rebellion against the pressures of a perfectionist, patriarchal society. Through listener questions and personal insights, I discuss the importance of rest for both mental and physical well-being and introduce the Pause Purpose Play Mini Mastermind designed to help ambitious women find balance, meaning, and fun. The episode emphasizes that resting and recovering are essential for achieving ambitious goals sustainably, without falling into the burnout trap.
https://thethomasconnection.thrivecart.com/pause-purpose-play/
Thursday May 02, 2024
Passion and purpose through pain and rebellion, with Holly Matthews
Thursday May 02, 2024
Thursday May 02, 2024
This episode features a deep and personal conversation with Holly Matthews, a TV actress turned self-development coach, about the themes of bravery, authenticity, and dealing with grief. Holly shares her journey, starting with her early career in television, her approach to living with bravery and courage rather than confidence, and how writing a bold letter as a child kickstarted her acting career. She discusses the importance of having awkward, gray-area conversations, embracing life's nuances, and how she challenges herself to live boldly. Holly also opens up about the impact of her husband Ross's death from brain cancer on her and her children, how she navigated grief, and how the experience reinforced her determination to help others feel 'more happy and less crappy.' The conversation touches on dealing with ADHD, the value of asking for what you want, and the importance of dropping the ball sometimes to manage the juggle of life's challenges. Holly also provides insights into dealing with online negativity, emphasizing the power of seeing oneself through others' eyes and maintaining authenticity in the face of criticism.
https://www.iamhollymatthews.com/
https://www.instagram.com/iamhollymatthews/
https://www.tiktok.com/@iamhollymatthews
To be one of Michaela's inner circle women in her transformational group coaching, Burn Bright, apply now: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Singing for Joy and Mental Health - Not Perfection with Rachel Maloy
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
This podcast episode features a heartwarming conversation between myself and Rachel Maloy, a facilitator of Singing Mamas groups. We discuss the profound impact that singing can have on mental health and well-being, especially for mothers. Rachel shares her personal journey of battling severe anxiety and depression after her son's birth and how discovering Singing Mamas became a pivotal moment in her recovery. She emphasizes the importance of singing as a form of emotional release, community building, and self-care. The episode also includes snippets of Rachel singing, along with a discussion about the benefits of singing for both adults and children, highlighting how it can improve confidence, mental health, and provide a sense of belonging. Rachel encourages listeners, especially mothers, to give themselves permission to prioritize their well-being through singing, exemplifying that everyone can sing and it is never too late to start.
Find me at www.thethomasconnection.co.uk
Instagram: @the_thomas_connection
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thethomasconnection
Pause Purpose Play Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/pausepurposeplay
Edited by MyPodcastAssistant
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
From Burnout to Brilliance: The Burn Bright Experience
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Today's episode was a live conversation between host Michaela and her guest, Kylie, discussing the impactful journey and benefits of investing in one’s well-being through the BurnBright program. Kylie shares her initial hesitations, the significance of building trust through engaging with Michaela’s content, and how making a substantial investment in the program led to personal and professional growth. They delve into the advantages of group coaching over individual sessions, highlighting the community support and the value of shared group experiences. Kylie's transformation from a corporate role to becoming a business owner underscores the program’s pivotal role in helping her find purpose, create space for personal growth, and achieve a sustainable balance between ambition and well-being. Michaela emphasizes the importance of commitment and how the program’s structure, including recorded calls and a supportive online community, facilitates profound personal transformation. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to consider enrolling in BurnBright to explore their paths toward well-being.
To be one of Michaela's inner circle women in her transformational group coaching, Burn Bright, apply now: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright
Spaces are limited to six and doors close for this round on the 19th of April!
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
Accepting compliments, receiving praise and being proud of yourself
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
Thursday Apr 11, 2024
In this Pause Purpose Play podcast episode, I discuss the challenge of accepting compliments and feeling proud without feeling icky', especially for perfectionistic, high-achieving women. I touch upon the cultural and personal barriers to embracing one's achievements and discuss my personal journey with pride and vulnerability, including my reflections on receiving the award and feeling out of place yet proud at the ceremony. I also share my intention behind the podcast to help women see their own light and strengths. Finally, I announce the upcoming round of her Burn Bright program, emphasising my ethical approach to participant selection and my passion for genuinely helping others.
To be one of Michaela's inner circle women in her transformational group coaching, Burn Bright, apply now: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright
Spaces are limited to six and doors close for this round on the 19th of April!
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Reducing rushing to feel better and be more productive
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
Thursday Apr 04, 2024
In this episode, I address the common habit of rushing through life, particularly among individuals with ADHD and busy parents. I discuss the negative impacts of constantly being in a rush, such as increased stress, reduced productivity, and potential dangers. I emphasise the importance of slowing down to improve effectiveness, focus, and mental health. I also talk about Neurodiversity Awareness Week, the concept of neurodivergence, and how rushing is often glorified in modern society. The episode delves into strategies for reducing the need to rush, including pausing to assess what's helpful or harmful, and the benefits of rest and recovery. I also highlight my Burn Bright program, which gives women permission to pause and manage the urge to rush, ultimately leading to a more productive and less stressful lifestyle.
Email Michaela to get the on-demand recording of the Spacious Year challenge videos:
info@thethomasconnection.co.uk
To be one of Michaela's inner circle women in her transformational group coaching, Burn Bright, apply now: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright
Spaces are limited to six and doors close for this round on the 19th of April!
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
Workplace wellbeing with Ross McIntosh
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
In this podcast episode, Ross, a specialist in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) in the workplace, discusses the principles of ACT and its application in both professional and personal settings. ACT, a practical and experiential form of therapy, is explored through its foundational skills of noticing, being active, and open, aimed at enhancing psychological flexibility. Ross shares insights into how these skills help individuals navigate the relentless modern workplace, reduce burnout, and lead more fulfilling lives by aligning actions with personal values. Through metaphors like 'passengers on the bus,' Ross illustrates how to manage internal dialogue and foster a healthier relationship with one's thoughts and feelings. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, kindness, and taking meaningful actions towards what truly matters, offering listeners practical strategies for improving well-being and effectiveness in their daily lives.
To be one of Michaela's inner circle women in her transformational group coaching, Burn Bright, apply now: www.thethomasconnection.co.uk/burn-bright
Guest email: ross.peoplesoup@gmail.com
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Daring to be "too big for your boots"
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
Thursday Mar 21, 2024
In this episode, I introduce the concept of three flows of compassion – towards others, from others, and self-compassion – and how fears and societal norms can block these flows. I share personal anecdotes about her experiences with vulnerability, such as asking for votes for an Inspirational Modern Woman Award and the implications of unmasking my ADHD in a professional forum. Tying my story to the broader theme of International Women's Day and inspiring inclusion, I emphasize the importance of courage over confidence and becoming a beacon of change. Through sharing the positive feedback and support I received, I aim to inspire listeners to embrace their vulnerabilities, challenge societal norms, and prioritise self-worth and self-compassion in their pursuit of personal and professional success.
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
My Spacious Adventure 4 - The Courage Piece
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
Thursday Mar 14, 2024
This podcast is the concluding part of my Spacious Adventure series. I discuss the concept of courage, reflecting on my experiences of solo travels, and the idea of courage as more important than confidence when stepping out of your comfort zone. I share my approach to planning, balancing structure with the freedom of spontaneity, and the importance of understanding one's limits and comfort levels in creating new experiences. I also underscore the significance of having a support system and planning one's journey in a nuanced manner and invite you the listeners to join a free four-day challenge titled 'Your Spacious Year' starting on 19th March 2024, and also the option of joining a retreat in Vietnam planned for March 2025.
Join the free challenge here: https://thethomasconnection.co.uk/spaciousyear/
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
My Spacious Adventure 3 - The Insights Piece
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
Thursday Mar 07, 2024
In this third part of the Spacious Adventure series on the Pause Purpose Play podcast,I discuss my return from Vietnam, and the need to retain insights and habits cultivated during travel. I highlight understanding one's emotions upon return, resisting guilt or negativity, and practising compassion for oneself. I share the importance of avoiding immediate immersion back into the grind but gradually easing back and giving time to process the adventure, thereby adding more richness to one's daily life. I also provide tips for soothing systems and practices to retain emotions and experiences from travel. I reveal my nomination for the Inspirational Modern Woman of the Year award, highlighting the representation of neurodiversity and mental health it brings, regardless of my winning the award. I also announce a four-day free online challenge to help listeners create their spacious year with more mindful moments, beginning on 19th March.
Vote for Michaela in The Modern Woman of the year award:
https://modernwoman.co/award-vote/
Join the FREE 4-day challenge to create your spacious year: