"Who Do I Want To Be?" Podcast

Lauren Jean

There is one question that exam papers skip worldwide... Who Do I Want To Be? is the podcast for ambitious young people building a life that feels like their own. Hosted by Lauren Jean Devine, each episode explores the stories, mindsets, and defining moments that help turn dreams into reality. Through honest conversations with founders, leaders, and changemakers, you'll discover not only what the question "who do I want to be?" means to you, but the answers to what it really takes to become.

  1. 1d ago

    E9: Why Saying No At 17 Changed Everything for Paulina Toktas

    The advice to follow the “safe” path can cost you years of your own life. Paulina Toktas shares the moment she said no to medicine, no to other people’s expectations, and yes to a life built on intuition, self-trust, and courage. Enroll today in "Chapter One After School" - https://laurenjeandevine.com/chapteroneafterschool Lauren guides a deeply personal conversation about the pressure to please family, the fear of disappointing the people who raised you, and the hard-won freedom that comes from choosing yourself. Paulina opens up about growing up as the youngest of five, navigating university, working abroad in Malta, building a coaching practice, and learning how every major transition shaped the woman she is today. You’ll hear Paulina share: Why saying no to a prescribed career path became the first real step toward her identityHow coaching helped her uncover people-pleasing patterns, trauma, and hidden limitsWhat Malta, relocation, and starting over taught her about intuition and reinventionThe role of support, mentorship, and asking for help when life gets uncertainHow to define success on your own terms and give yourself multiple chances to get there Book your free 1:1 clarity call with Lauren here - https://links.laurenjeandevine.com/widget/bookings/one-to-one-discovery This episode also goes into the emotional cost of family responsibility, the tension between logic and intuition, and the grief, guilt, and clarity that can come with loving someone deeply while still choosing your own path. Paulina’s story is a reminder that growth is rarely neat, and that self-trust often has to be built in the middle of uncertainty. Perfect for anyone standing at a crossroads, questioning a major life decision, or finally ready to stop living by someone else’s script and start building a life that actually fits. Follow Paulina: - On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulinatoktascoaching/ - On Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@paulinatoktascoaching - On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PaulinaToktasCoaching

  2. Aug 11

    E8 : From “Safe Job” to True Calling with Conor Nolan

    The advice to "play it safe" can quietly trap you in a life that isn't yours. Enroll today in "Chapter One After School" - https://laurenjeandevine.com/chapteroneafterschool Conor Nolan shares the moment he stopped choosing stability over purpose and walked away from the career path that no longer fit. Lauren and Conor get honest about the pressure to choose prestige, the fear of disappointing other people, and the hard reality of leaving a secure job before you feel "ready." If you're standing at a crossroads, this conversation will meet you right there. Conor Nolan is a mental health public speaker, youth development officer with BodyWise, author of Normal, and a former powerlifter. He uses his lived experience of anorexia, anxiety, and self-esteem struggles to help young people, especially lads, challenge stigma and talk about what actually matters. Purchase Conor's book "Normal" on Amazon - https://www.amazon.ie/Normal-Conor-Nolan/dp/1913704602?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAcGRvZgJleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA85MzY2MTk3NDMzOTI0NTkAAaf3DSfEVTHUI9kenXkLj0boMnzT2mxO1Mr1AcYsaKVbIogVfvQ-fYTibomFMQ_aem_tGatIW8L9l1t9X5BC_F0Pg In this episode you'll discover: Why high exam points do not have to dictate your futureHow Conor went from physics and data work to mental health workshops full timeThe "burn the boats" mindset that made the leap possibleWhy the people around you can either shrink your options or expand themHow anxiety, sleep, movement, workload, and stimulants all connect We also break down the hidden cost of chasing titles, salary, and approval when they don't align with who you are. Conor explains why proving yourself can become a trap, how self-worth gets tangled up with achievement, and why the real goal is not to do everything - it's to do the right things for you.If you've ever asked yourself whether you're on the "safe" path or the right one, this episode will give you language, courage, and a much needed reality check. Book your free 1:1 clarity call with Lauren here - https://links.laurenjeandevine.com/widget/bookings/one-to-one-discovery Essential listening for students, young adults, anyone in a career transition, and anyone trying to build a life that feels true instead of impressive. Follow Conor: - On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/conor_n7/ - On Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@conor_nolan_7

  3. Jul 28

    E6: The Accountability Gap - You Already Know What You Want

    Unlock the secret to turning your dreams into reality—despite life's ups and downs.  Join the exclusive Gals Who Thrive community here - https://member.laurenjeandevine.com/communities/group/gals-who-thrive/home?invite=6a3aaea71c3216e2e8f0d14d Most of us know what we want, yet somehow, goals slip away when motivation fades or obstacles appear. The truth is, the missing piece isn’t willpower or clarity—it's accountability. In this episode, Lauren reveals a simple but powerful framework to stay committed through life's toughest moments, sharing her personal journey from losing 50lbs to building a business after unimaginable losses. Discover how creating systems around your goals can turn fleeting motivation into consistent action. Lauren breaks down the three pillars of accountability: the people who support you, the environment that fuels your progress, and small, concrete actions that prove you're moving forward. This episode isn’t just about weight loss or business—it’s about reshaping your entire approach to achievement. Whether you're aiming to switch careers, build new habits, or pursue a passion, Lauren’s insights will help you close the dreaded accountability gap and create a life where your dreams are inevitable. The real question isn’t what you want—it's who will hold you to it when it matters most. If you're done waiting for the "perfect moment," this episode will show you how to make progress today—because strong accountability isn’t just a tool, it’s your secret weapon.

  4. Jul 7

    E3: Why Can't I Switch Off? What Summer Is Really Trying To Teach You

    Join the exclusive Gals Who Thrive Community here - https://member.laurenjeandevine.com/communities/groups/gals-who-thrive/home?invite=6a3aaea71c3216e2e8f0d14d Most of us have been conditioned to hustle nonstop—especially when summer arrives. But what if the secret to true growth and peace lies in surrendering productivity? Lauren unpacks her life-changing summer in Greece that taught her how to rest, reflect, and reconnect with her true self—and reveals how you can do the same. In this episode, she shares the raw story of booking a spontaneous trip to Greece during a time of personal upheaval and discovering a side of herself she’d forgotten: the joy of simply being. You’ll learn why rest isn’t a reward for achievement but a vital part of thriving, and how silence and downtime hold the answers you’re too busy to notice during your busy season. Lauren breaks down the Reset Method, a powerful yet simple tool to reframe guilt around rest. You'll discover three questions to ask yourself when you feel guilty for pausing: What does my body truly need today? What have I been too busy to notice about myself? And what moment today do I want to remember? These insights are designed to help you turn summer from an interruption into your most transformative season yet. If you’re tired of chasing productivity at the expense of your well-being, this episode is a must-listen. It’s perfect for students, professionals, and anyone craving clarity, renewal, and a deeper connection with themselves. Remember: summer isn’t an interruption from your life—it’s an invitation to rediscover who you really are. Get ready to challenge the hustle, embrace silence, and give yourself permission to enjoy the season. Because sometimes, stepping back is the fastest way forward.

  5. Jun 30

    E2: Choosing Your First Preference College Course

    Join the exclusive Gals Who Thrive Community here - https://member.laurenjeandevine.com/communities/groups/gals-who-thrive/home?invite=6a3aaea71c3216e2e8f0d14d Most young people are caught between what they truly want and what they think will keep them safe — and the consequences can be devastating. In this episode, Lauren shares her deeply personal story of choosing a college course, doubting herself, and ending up dropping out — only to realize she was listening to everyone else's voice, not her own.She dives into the hidden pitfalls of making decisions based on approval, safety, or societal expectations instead of passion. You'll discover how to identify the voices that influence your choices, learn the importance of aligning your decisions with what truly excites you, and uncover a powerful tool she calls the "empty room test" to access your authentic desires. Lauren emphasizes that capability isn't the same as calling — and that fulfillment comes from following your heart, not just your head.This episode is essential listening for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to choose the "right" path or stuck in a gap between expectations and personal calling. Lauren's honesty and practical insights challenge you to rethink who’s really guiding your decisions and show you how to break free from the safety net that’s holding you back from living your best life.If you’re at a crossroads and tired of making choices based on fear or pleasing others, this story will inspire you to listen to your own voice. The difference between safe and truly fulfilling might just be asking yourself: what would I do if nobody’s opinion mattered?Perfect for students, young adults, and anyone feeling lost in the chaos of life decisions — this episode will empower you to prioritize happiness over conformity and move confidently toward your own version of success.

About

There is one question that exam papers skip worldwide... Who Do I Want To Be? is the podcast for ambitious young people building a life that feels like their own. Hosted by Lauren Jean Devine, each episode explores the stories, mindsets, and defining moments that help turn dreams into reality. Through honest conversations with founders, leaders, and changemakers, you'll discover not only what the question "who do I want to be?" means to you, but the answers to what it really takes to become.