Make Minutes Matter

Rainbow Creative
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Welcome to the Make Minutes Matter podcast, hosted by Karen Gilhooly, where each episode is dedicated to igniting passion and purpose in the workplace. Are you a senior leader striving to reignite enthusiasm among your team? Perhaps you're a manager seeking to unify and empower your staff. Or maybe you're an individual craving a renewed sense of fulfillment in your career. Join me as we delve into insightful conversations and practical strategies that will empower you to make every minute count. Together, we'll uncover the keys to fostering a dynamic and engaged work environment where everyone thrives. Don't miss out on the inspiration and tools you need to reignite your professional fire. Subscribe to Make Minutes Matter on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform today, and let's make every moment in your career truly matter.

  1. 28 APR

    22 Years, One Company: The Career Strategy No One Talks About

    In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly sits down with Sarah Murrow, President & CEO of Allianz Trade Americas, for a candid conversation about what it really takes to build a meaningful, long-term career in a world that often rewards constant movement. Sarah shares her 22-year journey with one company, spanning continents, roles, and leadership levels, not as a story of staying put, but of constantly evolving. From saying yes to uncomfortable opportunities to leading a major IT transformation she initially got wrong, her experience offers an honest look at growth, missteps, and the mindset required to lead at the highest level. Karen and Sarah explore the hidden “equity” professionals build over time; credibility, relationships, and influence, and why walking away from it isn’t always as simple as it seems. They also unpack the tension between stability and ambition, the reality of leading through constant change, and why caring deeply about your work remains one of the most underrated competitive advantages. Throughout the episode, they reflect on navigating leadership as women in traditionally male-dominated industries, focusing less on barriers and more on what it actually takes to earn, and own, your seat at the table. This episode is for anyone questioning whether to stay or go, push forward or pivot. Because building a career isn’t about following trends, it’s about making intentional choices that compound over time. Be sure to subscribe to Make Minutes Matter for more conversations about leadership, reinvention, and making every minute count. Dive deeper and check out Karen Gilhooly’s book, The Three Bucket Leader:https://a.co/d/08vuNA9 This show is Produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/)  with Matthew “MoJo” Jones as Executive Producer, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor. For sponsorship opportunities email podcasts@rainbowcreative.co  0:00 – Introduction: IT transformation failure & the people lesson 0:26 – Welcome & Guest Introduction 0:49 – Building a career at one organization for 22 years 2:49 – Advice for choosing the right company 10:13 – Advice for new joiners: say yes, stay curious, take risks 17:52 – Breaking the glass ceiling in insurance & trade finance 20:52 – The importance of caring about your work & finding purpose 23:51 – Leading through disruption, change fatigue & new joiners 26:22 – The biggest career failure: people-first transformation 30:49 – The power of admitting mistakes & storytelling as a leader 32:41 – Your first 6 months in a new role: ask every question 34:25 – Outro & Follow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min

  2. 7 APR

    Knowing When It’s Time to Move On: Second Acts, Background Acting, and AI’s Impact

    In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly welcomes back John Paguaga for a candid conversation about knowing when it’s time to move on, whether from a long career or a role that no longer brings energy or impact. Together, they explore the moment when meaningful work begins to feel like obligation, and how self-awareness helps you decide whether to refresh your path or pivot before burnout affects your brand. John shares how he evaluates engagement through three “buckets,” recognizing when the spark starts to fade. After leading 250 New York City tours and serving more than 2,500 guests, he chose to step away at the 18-month mark, valuing positive reviews and meaningful impact as his true currency. That decision opened the door to an unexpected second act in background acting, landing roles in film, television, and commercials, and ultimately earning SAG eligibility. Karen and John also discuss the rapid rise of AI, comparing it to the early internet and examining how it may reshape education and entertainment. While some roles may disappear, new opportunities will emerge for those willing to adapt, learn, and lean into their strengths. Throughout the episode, they emphasize timeless skills: knowing your values, communicating with respect, seeking to understand others, and embracing mentorship across generations. This episode is for anyone sensing their fire dimming or considering a second act. Reinvention isn’t a one-time leap, it’s an ongoing practice of awareness and courage. Be sure to subscribe to Make Minutes Matter for more conversations about leadership, reinvention, and making every minute count. Dive deeper and check out Karen Gilhooly’s book, The Three Bucket Leader: https://a.co/d/08vuNA9 Produced by Rainbow Creative with Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones and edited by Anthony Parisi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    19 min

  3. 10 MAR

    Why So Many Professionals Feel Trapped in Their Careers - Career Wisdom from John Paguaga

    In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly welcomes back John Paguaga for a candid conversation about recognizing when it’s time to step away from a decades-long career and navigating the uncertainty of what comes next. After more than 40 years in the workforce, John shares the moment he realized “the rat race needed one less rat,” reflecting on the kind of exhaustion that doesn’t come from physical fatigue but from years of responsibility, pressure, and constant motion. Together, Karen and John explore the power of self-awareness, understanding your core values, and identifying your true strengths as the foundation for reinventing yourself, whether that means evolving within your current role or stepping into an entirely new chapter. John opens up about the difficult but necessary process of acknowledging when something no longer feels aligned, and the courage it takes to admit that change may be the right path forward. The conversation dives into what it really means to feel “on fire” in your work, why authentic recognition matters, and how many professionals quietly wrestle with the tension between obligation and fulfillment. He also shares the unexpected turns of his post-retirement journey, from searching online for “fun things to do for early retirees” to becoming a New York City tour guide, eventually leading 250 tours for more than 2,500 visitors. Yet even in that new chapter, John describes the moment he recognized the spark had faded again, reminding listeners that reinvention isn’t a one-time decision but an ongoing process of listening to yourself and adapting. This episode is a must-listen for professionals approaching retirement, contemplating a career transition, or simply wondering if there’s more to life than the daily grind. Be sure to subscribe to Make Minutes Matter for more conversations about purpose, reinvention, and making every minute count. Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9 This book is for leaders who: ✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In. ✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters. ✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention. If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/_) with Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones and edited by Anthony Parisi. CHAPTERS 00:00 Rat Race Reflection 00:28 Welcome Back John 00:55 Knowing When Its Time 04:01 Reinvent Where You Are 04:53 Self Awareness Basics 07:10 Man In The Mirror 09:21 Mentors On Bookshelves 09:53 Catch The Fire Moments 14:14 Recognition Fuels Fire 15:39 Second Act After Retirement 18:09 Googling A New Purpose 21:06 Tour Guide On Fire 23:21 Part Two Teaser Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    25 min

  4. 24 FEB

    How AI is Transforming Legal Careers & The Value of Making Mistakes

    Make your next 30 minutes count with new episodes delivered to your inbox. Click here: https://karen-gilhooly.kit.com/makeminutesmatter1 In Part 2 of this Make Minutes Matter conversation, Karen Gilhooly continues her thoughtful discussion with Darryl Chiang, Director in Google’s Legal Department, shifting the focus toward growth, failure, and the evolving realities of modern legal careers. Darryl offers a candid look at how artificial intelligence is reshaping professional development, not as a replacement for judgment, but as a powerful tool that accelerates learning and frees up space for deeper, more strategic thinking earlier in one’s career. Together, they unpack the importance of curiosity and asking questions, and why AI can serve as a judgment-free environment for developing confidence before stepping into high-stakes conversations. Darryl reflects on the balance between “book smarts” and “street smarts,” emphasizing that real professional wisdom is built at the intersection of theory, lived experience, and mistakes. He challenges the myth of linear career progression, arguing that detours, lateral moves, and even failures often create stronger leaders with clearer values and better judgment. The conversation also explores why today’s professionals need permission to fail, how memorable missteps shape ethics and integrity more than easy wins, and why broad, non-linear experiences often lead to more grounded decision-making. Throughout, Darryl reinforces the idea that growth rarely looks perfect on paper — and that’s exactly the point.This episode is a must-listen for legal professionals, managers, and anyone navigating career development in an AI-driven world. It’s a reminder that progress isn’t about avoiding mistakes, but about learning how to use them. Connect with Darryl Chiang on LinkedIn and be sure to subscribe for more conversations that make every minute matter. Connect with Darryl on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darryl-chiang-63524/ This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative with Executive Producers Matthew "MoJo" Jones, and Editors Anthony Parisi and Yuval Yosha of Big Fable. Graphic Design by Mohamed Naser. Filmed at Wolff Studios in Brooklyn, NYC Introduction (0:00) Law School vs. Real World Practice (0:47) How AI Shortens the Learning Curve (2:07) AI as a Tireless Associate (4:02) Asking Questions Without Fear (5:25) AI and Job Satisfaction (7:46) Super Intelligence by 2027 (8:27) Book Smarts vs. Street Smarts (10:48) The Firetruck Story (12:58) Teaching Through Mistakes (19:25) Career Trajectories and Lateral Moves (30:58) Closing Thoughts (38:30) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    40 min

  5. 8 FEB

    From Almost Quitting Law School to Google Legal Director | Finding Purpose in Your Career

    Make your next 30 minutes count with new episodes delivered to your inbox. Click here: https://karen-gilhooly.kit.com/makeminutesmatter1 In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly sits down with Darryl Chiang, Director in Google’s Legal Department, for an honest and thought-provoking conversation about career fulfillment, pivots, and purpose. Darryl shares his unconventional journey from nearly walking away from law school to building a meaningful career in corporate law, unpacking the realities behind prestigious titles and the internal questions many professionals are afraid to ask. Together, they explore imposter syndrome, the gap between expectations and reality in big law, and the courage it takes to admit when something isn’t working. Darryl reflects on formative moments that shaped his path from clerking for a federal judge to realizing that loving the idea of a career isn’t the same as loving the day-to-day work. He discusses the power of mentors who teach lessons no textbook ever could, why understanding business context often matters more than legal clauses, and how a simple mindset shift “you just gotta ask” can change the trajectory of a career. The conversation also touches on becoming a parent later in life, staying relevant in a fast-changing world, and defining success on your own terms. This episode is a must-listen for law students, young professionals, and anyone navigating a career transition or questioning whether the path they’re on is truly aligned. Be sure to subscribe and tune in for Part 2, where the conversation goes even deeper. About Darryl Chang Darryl Chiang is a Director in Google’s Legal Department, where he focuses on AI policy and regulation. His career spans federal clerkships, big law, and in-house counsel roles, giving him a rare and well-rounded perspective on the legal profession and what it takes to find the right professional fit. Connect with Darryl on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darryl-chiang-63524/ This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative with Executive Producers Matthew "MoJo" Jones, and Editors Anthony Parisi and Yuval Yosha of Big Fable. Graphic Design by Mohamed Naser. Filmed at Wolff Studios in Brooklyn, NYC 0:00 - Cold Open: The Business Questions Story 0:36 - Welcome & Introduction to Darryl Chiang 2:38 - Being a Dad at 50 & Working in AI at Google 4:02 - Why Law? The Five Professions 10:55 - The Fork in the Road: Almost Quitting Harvard Law 16:39 - Big Law Burnout: Wearing a Mask at Work 21:32 - Serendipity: Landing the In-House Job 24:37 - Working with Real People & Street Smart Mentors 26:00 - The Lesson: Business Context Matters More Than Legal Documents 27:40 - "You Just Gotta Ask" - The Power of Negotiation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    30 min

  6. 07/10/2025

    What It Takes to Reinvent Your Career | Lessons from Zara Watson-Young & Sean Young

    Join us for part two of our engaging conversation with Zara and Sean from Watson and Young. In this episode, we delve into the importance of taking risks, entrepreneurial inspirations, and the journey of building a business. Learn how Zara's creative background and Sean's organizational skills played crucial roles in their success. We also discuss overcoming career ruts, managing anxieties, and the transformative power of listening to your inner voice. Plus, Zara and Sean share valuable tips for those looking to liberate themselves from unfulfilling careers. Don't miss their inspiring story of turning passion into a thriving intellectual property firm. About Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young Zara and Sean are the powerhouse husband-and-wife team behind Watson & Young PLLC, a premier law firm dedicated to protecting entrepreneurs’ brands at the highest level. After seeing too many founders lose the rights to names and businesses they built from nothing, they set out to create a firm that does more than file paperwork, they defend legacies and secures the future of brands. Zara is a fierce advocate in trademark law, known for giving founders the confidence to scale without fear of copycats. Sean brings sharp strategy and precision to every trademark search, filing, and enforcement matter, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Together, they’ve protected more than 900 brands across the globe. While raising two daughters, they continue to build a practice rooted in family, faith, and legacy, with one mission: to safeguard what matters most so visionary founders can thrive. Connect with Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young at Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9 This book is for leaders who: ✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In. ✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters. ✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention. If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative Executive Producers Matthew Jones, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor. 00:00 Reflecting on Life's Risks 00:17 Introduction to Zara and Sean 00:28 The Building Blocks Concept 00:57 Zara's Entrepreneurial Journey 02:00 The Birth of a Content Creator 02:58 COVID's Impact on Creativity 04:17 Sean's Contribution and Systems 05:07 The Importance of Organization 07:40 Balancing Career and Personal Life 10:58 The Wake-Up Call 16:17 Embracing Risk and Purpose 17:59 Conclusion and Farewell Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    19 min

  7. 16/09/2025

    All In: The Risky Path to Building a Dream Business with Zara Watson-Young & Sean Young

    In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, host Karen Gilhooly interviews Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young from Watson & Young PLLC, an intellectual property firm based in New York City. They discuss their unique career journeys, highlighting the challenges and risks they faced in transitioning from less fulfilling law careers to creating their own successful practice.  Zara shares her initial passion for special education law and her ultimate pivot to intellectual property to protect content creators, while Sean recounts his arduous time in housing court and his eventual leap into joining the family business.  Their stories emphasize the importance of taking risks, being 'all in,' and demonstrating to their children what it means to be passionate and alive in the workplace. About Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young Zara and Sean are the powerhouse husband-and-wife team behind Watson & Young PLLC, a premier law firm dedicated to protecting entrepreneurs’ brands at the highest level. After seeing too many founders lose the rights to names and businesses they built from nothing, they set out to create a firm that does more than file paperwork, they defend legacies and secures the future of brands. Zara is a fierce advocate in trademark law, known for giving founders the confidence to scale without fear of copycats. Sean brings sharp strategy and precision to every trademark search, filing, and enforcement matter, ensuring no detail is overlooked. Together, they’ve protected more than 900 brands across the globe. While raising two daughters, they continue to build a practice rooted in family, faith, and legacy, with one mission: to safeguard what matters most so visionary founders can thrive. Connect with Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young at watsonandyoung.com/ Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9 This book is for leaders who: ✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In. ✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters. ✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention. If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative Executive Producers Matthew Jones, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor. 00:00 Introduction: Time and Career Reflections 00:22 Meet Zara and Sean 01:18 Zara's Journey into Law 05:36 Sean's Career Path 09:34 Taking the Leap: Building Watson & Young 20:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    22 min

  8. 26/08/2025

    How to Build a Thriving Business Through Smart, Authentic Networking with Wayne Brown

    In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly sits down with Wayne Brown to explore the critical role of authentic networking in both personal and professional life. Wayne shares how focusing on authentic networking helped him build his successful company, The Walker Group. From starting with no clients to partnering with major banks and fintechs, Wayne emphasizes the importance of giving first and receiving second. The conversation also delves into overcoming career roadblocks, taking calculated risks, and growing through connections. Wayne's insights offer invaluable advice for those looking to enhance their networking skills and build meaningful relationships. Be sure to tune in for practical tips on how to get started with effective networking today! About Wayne Brown Wayne Brown is the Managing Partner of The Walker Group, a boutique FinTech Consulting Company. Starting a company in 2007, at the outset of financial crisis was no easy task. The Walker Group sits at the intersection of FinTech, banks and payment processors. From the beginning to now, The Walker Group has helped hundreds of companies launch and promote their product to new customers, partner with banks and expand to other global markets. Whether directly through our partnerships or throughout clients we have connected FinTechs and positioned them for growth with some of the largest global banks, regional banks and credit unions. Connect with Wayne Brown via email at wbrown@walkergroupnyc.com  Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9 This book is for leaders who: ✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In. ✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters. ✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention. If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative Executive Producers Matthew Jones, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor. 00:00 The Importance of Networking  00:34 Overcoming Career Roadblocks  01:46 Starting a New Business  02:54 The Value of Networking  07:13 Wayne’s Journey Building the Walker Group  13:11 Helping Others Through Networking  15:46 Success Stories from Networking  18:04 Personal Reflections on Networking  19:12 The Importance of Taking Risks  20:52 Leveraging Past Experiences  24:52 Building a Strong Network  28:09 Conclusion and Contact Information Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    30 min
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About

Welcome to the Make Minutes Matter podcast, hosted by Karen Gilhooly, where each episode is dedicated to igniting passion and purpose in the workplace. Are you a senior leader striving to reignite enthusiasm among your team? Perhaps you're a manager seeking to unify and empower your staff. Or maybe you're an individual craving a renewed sense of fulfillment in your career. Join me as we delve into insightful conversations and practical strategies that will empower you to make every minute count. Together, we'll uncover the keys to fostering a dynamic and engaged work environment where everyone thrives. Don't miss out on the inspiration and tools you need to reignite your professional fire. Subscribe to Make Minutes Matter on YouTube or your favorite podcast platform today, and let's make every moment in your career truly matter.

Information

  • Channel
    Rainbow Creative
  • Creator
    Karen Gilhooly
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Karen Gilhooly

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