Finding Your Direction Emma Lynch

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.



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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\

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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.ieConnect 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



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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.