Finding Your Direction

In this episode of "Finding Your Direction," Emma discusses career transitions with Claudia Geratz, a former tech professional turned positive psychologist and career coach, and Dr. Clara O'Byrne, a coaching psychologist and educator. They explore the gradual nature of their career changes, influenced by pivotal moments like the pandemic and personal values. Key takeaways: Claudia unfolds her remarkable journey from a two-decade-long tech career to embracing positive psychology. Despite meeting what many would describe as traditional markers of success, she felt unfulfilled and discovered her passion for learning about the human mind and heart. Claudia delves into her academic pursuit, acquiring an undergraduate degree in psychology and a master's in positive psychology and coaching psychology. Her transition during the pandemic led her to focus on climate change and climate anxiety in her coaching practice. Dr. Clara O'Byrne shares her story of transitioning from teaching to coaching psychology. A love of learning has been a constant in her various roles, from teaching history to supporting teachers and eventually pursuing a Ph.D. in psychology. Clara highlights her dedication to positive psychology and coaching psychology, especially in supporting caregivers and neurodivergent individuals. The pandemic became a catalyst for her decision to become self-employed, aligning her life with her values. Don't forget to leave a rating and hit subscribe so that you never miss an episode. Recommended Resources: Positive Psychology Coaches Ireland Connect with Claudia: Website: www.claudiageratz.com Connect with Clara: Website: www.claraobyrne.ie Connect with Emma: Instagram: @emmalynchcoaching Website: www.emmalynchcoaching.com Email: emma@theoptimalperformancecoach.com\ Sign up for the newsletter here:

In this episode of "Finding Your Direction," Emma is joined by Rob Grace, who shares his fascinating career journey, beginning with his childhood dream of becoming a press photographer. However, life took unexpected turns, leading him to study fine art photography and later delve into politics and sociology during his academic pursuits. Passionate about human rights and working with youth, Rob's path evolved as he volunteered with the IPCC in Dublin and other youth advocacy groups. In this episode, Emma and Rob talk about the following: Rob shares his journey from aspiring press photographer to joining the Gardai at 32, driven by a passion for human rights. Emphasizes the significance of support from friends and family during Rob's transformative career journey. The challenges Rob encountered while reshaping his career path. Robs shares his future career aspiration to transition to mental health and youth advocacy. If you enjoy today's episode, please don't forget to leave a rating and hit subscribe so that you never miss an episode. Connect with Emma: Instagram: @emmalynchcoachingWebsite: www.emmalynchcoaching.com Email: emma@theoptimalperformancecoach.com Sign up for the newsletter here:

In today's episode, I'm joined by Terri Sue Cosgrove, the founder and Managing Director of The HR Head. Terri Sue shares her inspiring career transition story from climbing the corporate ladder to overcoming burnout and establishing a business that aligns with her passion. We delve into her journey, challenges, and the pivotal moments that led her to where she is today. In this episode, Emma and Terri Sue talk about the following: Terri Sue Cosgrove shares her career transition story, from sales to HR and healthcare management. Her experience working in various roles, including sales manager, hospital sales rep, and head of operations management in the Middle East. The challenges she faced, burnout experiences, and the turning points that led her to reconsider her career path. Terri Sue's decision to pursue education, including a master's degree in healthcare management and leadership. Transitioning to HR roles and facing setbacks in job searches upon returning to Ireland. Joining Google and later transitioning to a role in a hospital during the challenging times of COVID-19. The realization that she needed a change and the process of self-discovery using the Career Stories Method. Establishing her own business, The HR Head, specializing in crisis HR support for companies and HR managers. Overcoming fears, embracing change, and finding joy in her work. If you enjoy today's episode, please don't forget to leave a rating and hit subscribe so that you never miss an episode. Recommended Resources Career Stories Method: A valuable resource for self-reflection and gaining clarity on your career path. Playing Big by Tara Moore: An insightful book that encourages women to overcome fears and play big in their careers. Connect with Terri Sue: Website: www.thehrhead.com LinkedIn: Terri Sue Cosgrove Connect with Emma: Instagram: @emmalynchcoaching Website: www.emmalynchcoaching.com Email: emma@theoptimalperformancecoach.com

Welcome to another episode of "Finding Your Direction," the podcast that encourages you to embark on a fulfilling career journey. In this episode, your host, Emma Lynch, sits down with John Loftus, Founder of Midwest Mentoring, for an insightful conversation spanning over six decades of diverse career experiences. In this episode, Emma and John talk about the following: John reflects on a career that traversed roles at Aer Lingus, the music industry, Life Insurance, and contributions to Limerick GAA. John highlights his early career adventures from his time in London and experiences working with Aer Lingus. John shares his entrepreneurial ventures into the nightclub scene, managing popular clubs, combining his passion for music with aviation expertise & his involvement with Limerick GAA. Midwest Mentoring and Career Wisdom: The evolution of Midwest Mentoring, emphasizing the value of networking, adaptability, and seeking guidance in career transitions. John, at 76, continues to inspire and contribute actively, emphasizing the value of belief in oneself, adaptability, and surrounding oneself with a supportive network. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to leave a rating and subscribe for future episodes. Connect with John: Website: www.midwestmentoring.ie Connect with Emma: Instagram: @emmalynchcoachingWebsite: www.emmalynchcoaching.com Email: emma@theoptimalperformancecoach.com

In this episode of "Finding Your Direction," Emma interviews Ultan Sheils, a personal trainer and fitness instructor who made a career transition from financial services to the fitness industry. Ultan shares his journey and highlights the bravery involved in leaving behind a well-established career to pursue a passion for fitness. In this episode, Emma and Ultan talk about the following: Ultan's initial career choice in financial services was influenced by the economic climate. The pivotal moment leading Ultan to make a career change for a direct impact on people's lives. His advice to graduates to follow their passions, seek aligned opportunities, and gain practical experience by shadowing professionals. Ultan shares his personal experience of finding fulfillment and job satisfaction in helping others improve physical and mental well-being through personal training. Overall, this episode serves as an inspiring reminder that it is never too late to pursue a career that brings joy and purpose. By taking the leap and following their passions, individuals can find fulfillment and make a positive impact in their chosen field. If you don’t want to miss an episode, subscribe to be the first one to know when a new episode airs! Connect with Emma: Instagram: @emmalynchcoachingWebsite: www.emmalynchcoaching.com Sign up to our bi-monthly newsletter here Book a short chemistry call to find out more here: Download your free guide 5 Ways to Spark More Joy In your Career in 2024

Season 3 of "Finding Your Direction," kicks off with special guest, Anne Healy, the creative mind behind Biddys Good Luck Horseshoes, and her transition from a secure corporate job to the adventurous world of entrepreneurship. Anne’s story will inspire you to think about your own "what ifs" and maybe even take a leap of your own. In this episode, Emma and Anne talk about the following: Anne’s journey from a 37-year career in insurance to establishing her own business. Anne discusses taking the leap into entrepreneurship, the importance of support systems like Network Ireland, and the growth of her business, including retail presence in the US and Ireland. Anne shares her vision for the future & advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. If you don’t want to miss an episode, subscribe to be the first one to know when a new episode airs! Connect with Anne: Website: www.biddysgoodluckhorseshoes.com Instagram: @biddysgoodluckhorseshoes Connect with Emma: Instagram: @emmalynchcoaching Website: www.emmalynchcoaching.com Sign up to our bi-monthly newsletter here. Book a short chemistry call to find out more here.

Join Emma in this captivating episode of Finding Your Direction, as she delves into the inspiring career transformation story of Laura McAuliffe, a former corporate professional turned Reiki master, Indian head massage practitioner, and successful freelance visual merchandise expert. Get ready to explore the pivotal moments and challenges that led Laura to embark on her transformative journey, embracing her true passion and finding fulfillment in the world of alternative healing practices. In this episode, Emma and Laura talk about the following: Laura takes us back to her corporate roots and shares the events that ignited her desire for a profound career change. Unveiling the defining moment when Laura decided to bid farewell to her corporate job and wholeheartedly embrace her holistic healing venture. Emma and Laura explore the invaluable support and resources that aided her transition, empowering her to thrive in her newfound profession. Laura shares her advice for aspiring career changers. Tune in now and embark on an enlightening adventure of self-discovery and transformation. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode of Finding Your Direction! Connect with Laura: Instagram Website About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Connect with Emma: Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more: Sign up to our bi monthly newsletter here:

Welcome to another episode filled with inspiration and personal growth on "Finding Your Direction!" In this episode, host Emma is joined by Barbara Lynch, who transformed her 13-year career in business banking into owning a thriving online gift business and a shop in her local village. Join us as we delve into Barbara's remarkable journey, brimming with insights, inspiration, and practical advice to help you discover your own path to success. In this episode, Emma and Barbara talk about the following: Uncovering the Drive: Barbara reveals her reasons and motivations for deciding to change her career, and how her desire to pursue her passion fueled her transformation. Navigating New Territory: Discover how Barbara embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, where she sought support and the invaluable resources that helped her navigate the unfamiliar waters of starting a business. Building Confidence, One Step at a Time: Barbara shares the strategies and mindset shifts that allowed her to develop confidence and maintain consistency throughout her career transition, even in the face of challenges. Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Barbara's experience and wisdom shine through as she provides valuable advice and actionable steps for listeners who have a business idea but are unsure about taking the next leap. About Barbara Lynch: Barbara Lynch, a former business banker, embarked on a career transition journey that led her to transform her hobby and passion for gift and homeware shopping into a thriving online business and a recently opened shop in her local village. As a mother of four, Barbara shares how she dedicated time to self-reflection and personal development, enabling her to step out of her comfort zone and launch her business from her kitchen table during the pandemic. Connect with Barbara: Website: https://foursisters.ie/ Instagram About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction, and goals they need to flourish in their careers and life. Connect with Emma on her socials: Facebook LinkedIn Website: theoptimalperformancecoach.com Book a short chemistry call to find out here. Sign up to our bi-monthly newsletter here:.

Welcome to another captivating episode of Finding Your Direction! In this thought-provoking episode, host Emma is joined by a special guest, Hannah O'Connell, a renowned acupuncturist. Together, they dive into the inspiring story of Hannah's remarkable career transformation and the incredible support she received along the way. In this episode, Emma and Hannah talk about the following: Hannah shares her extraordinary journey from working as a chef in a Michelin-starred restaurant to embarking on a whole new path as a successful acupuncturist. Discover the vital role played by a strong support system during Hannah’s career transition Join us for an interesting discussion that will inspire and drive you to explore the possibilities of career reinvention. About Hannah: Hannah is a qualified practitioner of traditional practice medicine specializing in acupuncture. She uses acupuncture, moxibustion, Gua Sha and lifestyle and dietary advice. Connect with Hannah on her socails: Website Instagram About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Connect with Emma on her socails: Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more: Sign up to our bi monthly newsletter here:

In this captivating episode, Emma sits down with special guest Susan Heaton-Wright, and dive deep into Susan's incredible journey from being a dedicated teacher in Kenya to becoming a renowned singer and the founder of Superstar Communicator. In this episode, Emma and Susan talk about the following: Susan's career background: A dedicated teacher in Kenya, Susan's life took an unexpected turn after a serious accident, in which she miraculously emerged as the sole survivor. The transformative power of music: During her rehabilitation process, Susan sought solace in joining a choir, a decision that would change her life forever. Susan discusses the defining moment that pushed her to embark on the challenging path of attending Music School to develop her voice. She reveals the motivations and considerations that fueled her determination to pursue her newfound passion. Susan shares the individuals who played a crucial role in Susan's career transformation, providing the guidance and belief in her abilities. Join Emma and Susan in this episode as they explore the remarkable story of Susan's career transformation, showcasing the resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit that propelled her from teacher to professional opera singer and founder of superstar communicator. Whether you're seeking inspiration for your own professional journey or simply fascinated by tales of triumph, this episode promises to captivate your imagination and leave you feeling motivated to pursue your dreams. Connect with Susan: Website Instagram About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Connect with Emma: Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more: Sign up to our bi monthly newsletter here:

In this episode, Emma sits down with special guest Anne McAuliffe, a Nurse Manager who is embarking on a career transition into reflexology and baby massage instruction. Join them as they discuss Anne's journey and the motivations and journey behind her decision to move away from shift work and weekend commitments in her mid-40s, to finding a way to holistically care for people into her retirement years. In this episode, Emma and Anne talk about the following: Anne shares her career background from nursing to operating a gift and gadget shop to nursing again. What motivated Anne to explore a career change and abandon the pressures of shift work and weekend schedules. The factors that motivated Anne to embark on this new career path, that will give her a continued sense of work fulfillment into her retirement instead of simply retiring. Tune in to this episode as Emma and Anne peel back the layers of Anne's career transformation, revealing the power of resilience, reinvention, and a relentless pursuit of passion. Whether you're seeking guidance for your own professional shift or simply yearning for a tale of triumph against the odds, this episode is bound to leave you captivated and motivated to embark on your own extraordinary journey. About Anne Find out more about Anne and the work that she does here About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more:

In this episode, Emma chats with special guest Amie Wiley, who is an inspiring 24 years old entrepreneur, wellness coach and founder of Active with Amie. In this episode, Emma and Amie talk about the following: Amie shares her background and reflects on her path leading up to her current success and discusses her initial career plan as a primary school teacher and the unexpected turn that led her to the world of fitness entrepreneurship. Amie opens up about her experience with imposter syndrome and the struggles she faced and how she was able to overcome this. What helped Amie during her first few months as a full-time business owner. Tune in now to unlock the secrets of Amie's success and embark on your own transformative journey. About Amie: Amie is the founder of Active with Amie, an online coaching service that helps people become healthier and happier by training them in nutrition, fitness and mindset. Connect with Amie on Instagram About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Connect with Emma on her socails: Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more:

In this episode, Emma chats with special guest Gary Collins, who has had a fascinating career journey. Gary began as an Irish dancer before transitioning to accounting, but he eventually found his true passion in photography. He is now a professional wedding and commercial photographer, and he also runs a business with his wife called SIAR photography, which focuses on Irish landscape print photography. In this episode, Emma and Gary about the following: Emma and Gary dive into his career journey, discussing what led him to make the transition from accounting to photography. Gary shares his tipping point, which finally pushed him to pursue his passion for photography full-time. Despite not having a formal education in photography, Gary is entirely self-taught. Gary talks about the support he received from his wife during his career transition. He shares how his wife's encouragement and belief in his abilities gave him the confidence to pursue his passion. Tune in to this episode to hear more about Gary's fascinating journey and how he's become a successful photographer. Connect with Garry: Website Instagram About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Connect with Emma: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more To find out more about my How to create a thriving career plan workshop click here

Joanne Burke, founder of Nordic Fitness Ireland, joins host Emma in this episode to share her remarkable story. Nordic Fitness Ireland was established five years ago after Joanne's retirement from nursing. Joanne's journey is one of inspiration and determination, as she turned her retirement from nursing into a thriving fitness business. In this episode, Emma and Joanne talk about the following: Joanne explains the inception of Nordic Fitness Ireland and how it came into being. She talks about her passion for fitness and wellness, which led her to create a platform for helping others achieve their fitness goals. Emma and Joanne delve into Joanne's background in nursing and her experiences in the field. Joanne reveals her decision not to retire after nursing and instead start Nordic Fitness Ireland.She explains the reasons behind this choice and the desire to continue making a positive impact in people's lives through her passion for fitness. Emma and Joanne explore the defining moment or push that compelled Joanne to embark on her entrepreneurial journey. Joanne shares the personal motivation and the pivotal event that sparked her decision to start Nordic Fitness Ireland. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a fitness enthusiast, or simply seeking inspiration, Joanne's experience is sure to resonate with you. Get ready to be inspired as we uncover the journey of Nordic Fitness Ireland with our incredible guest, Joanne Burke. Let's dive in! About Joanne Burke: Website Instagram About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more:

In this episode, Emma chats with special guest Petrina O'Halloran, a qualified accountant who has transitioned from a career as a financial controller to becoming the founder of Mamas Boobie Box. Petrina shares her journey with us, including her career background and the mindset shift that led her to start her own business. In this episode, Emma and Petrina talk about the following: Petrina discusses her business, Mamas Boobie Box, which is a subscription service that provides breastfeeding support and products for new mothers. She talks about her passion for helping new mothers and her desire to provide them with the support she wishes she had when she had her own child. Petrina shares her career background, starting with her work as a financial controller, where she had a successful career but found herself feeling unfulfilled and unhappy with the long hours and corporate ladder climbing. She explains how having her own child shifted her mindset and values, and she no longer wanted to prioritize her career over her family. Petrina talks about the challenges she faced in the early days of starting her business, including the lack of experience in entrepreneurship and marketing. She shares the resources and support that helped her along the way, including mentorship and networking with other business owners. Petrina shares her 5-year plan for Mamas Boobie Box, which includes expanding the product line and increasing the company's reach to help even more mothers. Petrina's story serves as a reminder of the power of following our passions, and how shifting our mindset and values can lead us to live a more fulfilling life. With the right mindset, support, and determination, anything is possible. About Petrina O’Halloran: https://mamasboobiebox.com/ About Emma Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Helpful Links: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more

Welcome to today's episode where we have a special guest, Jonathon Hickey, the founder of JH Fitness. Jonathon helps men and women get in shape in a sustainable way both in person and online. Today we'll be discussing his career journey, his motivation for starting his own business, and his experience with making the transition. In this episode, Emma and Jonathon talk about the following: Jonathon shares a bit about himself and where he's from. His career background before starting JH Fitness Jonathon shares what his final push was for starting his own business. The support he received in making the transition to entrepreneurship. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more interviews and insights on entrepreneurship and building a sustainable business. About Jonathon: Facebook Instagram About Emma Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Find out more about Time To Thrive, a group career mentoring program for individuals making career transitions. Helpful Links: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more!

Welcome back to the Finding Your Direction Podcast! In this episode, we have a special guest, Jennifer O'Sullivan, who has an interesting story to share with us. Jennifer is a financial accountant turned Spiritual Celebrant. Emma, worked with Jennifer 14 years ago, and now Jennifer has started her own business as a spiritual celebrant, while still working as a financial accountant. In this episode, Emma and Jennifer talk about the following: Jennifer talks about her accountant career background: Jennifer shares her journey and how she became a financial accountant. She talks about her experience in the field and what led her to explore other options. Jennifer explains what a celebrant is, the different types of celebrants, and what it entails. She shares some of the services she provides as a spiritual celebrant, including weddings, funerals, and baby blessings. Jennifer shares how she decided to become a celebrant and what gave her the final push: Emma asks Jennifer what inspired her to become a spiritual celebrant. Jennifer talks about her personal journey and how she felt called to this work. She also shares the moment that gave her the final push to pursue this path. Jennifer’s story is a perfect example of how our passions and callings can lead us down unexpected paths in life. From a financial accountant to a spiritual celebrant, Jennifer has found fulfillment in serving others in a different way. Her journey is a reminder that it's never too late to pursue your dreams and make a change in your life. We hope Jennifer's story has inspired you to explore your own passions and find your direction in life. Jennifer is a spiritual celebrant and legal solemniser also known as the Clare Celebrant and can be found on Instagram . Find Out More About Emma’s Career Change Mentoring Programme About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website Book a short chemistry call to find out more:

Welcome back to the Finding Your Direction Podcast! In this episode, Emma interviews her sister-in-law, Ethel Grant, about her inspiring journey of changing careers and transitioning into primary school teaching at the age of 40 while raising five children. In this episode, Emma and Ethel talk about the following: Ethel shares her background, previous jobs and education, giving listeners an insight into her life before making the decision to change careers. The reasons that led Ethel to change careers and what inspired her to do so. Ethel also gives an insight into the challenges of returning to education later in life and raising a family. Ethel talks about her passion for teaching and her desire to make a difference in the lives of children, which ultimately led her to take the leap. Emma and Ethel discuss the challenges that Ethel faces during her change journey and what helped her to achieve her goals. Overall, this episode is an inspiring and motivational discussion that showcases the power of perseverance, determination, and a passion for one’s goals. Tune in to hear more about Ethel’s journey and learn how you too can overcome obstacles and achieve your dreams! About Emma: Emma Lynch is a career and life transition coach, and positive psychology practitioner. Emma’s passion is supporting individuals through 1-1 coaching to find the clarity, direction and goals they need to flourish in their career and life. About Ethel: Ethel is a primary school teacher, a mum to five children. Originally from Co Clare she now resides in Donegal Book a short chemistry call here to find out more:

Hello and welcome to the Finding Your Direction podcast, hosted by Emma Lynch. Just a preview of what's to come, what this season will be about, and who Emma is, can be found in this teaser. Join us on this self-discovery adventure as we look at strategies to get beyond stumbling blocks and find the path to the career of your dreams. So hit that subscribe button now and join us on this journey of self-discovery and career development. You can connect with Emma on the following platforms: Instagram: @theoptimalperformancecoach Facebook - The Optimal Performance Coach LinkedIn - Emma Lynch Website - www.theoptimalperformancecoach.com