The JOY CEO

Lori Pine
  • 5.0 (26)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Joy CEO is the podcast for high-achieving professionals who are done chasing titles and tired of playing by outdated leadership rules. Hosted by former corporate VP turned Executive Coach Lori Pine, this show is your invitation to redefine success—and lead with more clarity, confidence, and joy. Each week, you’ll hear bold, honest conversations with executives, trailblazers, and changemakers who are rising on their own terms. You’ll learn what it really takes to thrive at the top—from emotional intelligence and self-reflection to presence, purpose, and powerful leadership. If you're ready to grow your impact and your well-being, hit subscribe. Because joy isn’t just personal—it’s a leadership superpower. And your rise starts here.

  1. 1D AGO

    Harnessing Fire Horse Energy Without Burning Out

    Summary: In this solo episode, I’m diving into the powerful role joy plays in leadership and personal growth—and why it’s not a “nice-to-have,” but a non-negotiable if you want sustainable success. I introduce the concept of Fire Horse Energy, a rare and intense force connected to the 2026 Chinese zodiac, and how this energy invites bold action, momentum, and deep personal responsibility. I walk you through the three phases of fire—ignition, roaring fire, and embers—and help you identify where you are right now. Most importantly, we talk about how to sustain your fire without burning out by protecting your “oxygen”: the inner resources that keep you grounded, energized, and aligned. This episode is both reflective and practical. If you’re feeling the pull to do more, lead differently, or step into a bigger version of yourself—this conversation is your invitation to do it with joy, not exhaustion. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Joy Is a Leadership Strategy Joy isn’t fluff—it’s fuel. When I lead from joy, I make clearer decisions, build stronger relationships, and move toward my goals with purpose instead of pressure. Audience reflection → Where have you been pushing instead of allowing joy to lead? Understanding Fire Horse Energy Fire Horse energy is fast, powerful, and transformative—but only when it’s directed intentionally. Left unchecked, it can lead to burnout or chaos. Audience reflection → Where in your life do you feel this surge of energy right now? The Three Phases of Fire I break down ignition (the spark), roaring fire (momentum), and embers (integration and rest). Each phase requires something different from you. Audience reflection → Which phase are you in—and are you honoring what it needs? Oxygen Prevents Burnout Your oxygen is your self-care, boundaries, nervous system regulation, and inner resourcing. Without it, even the strongest fire burns out. Audience reflection → What replenishes you that you’ve been neglecting? The Hula Hoop Principle I share how staying in your own “hula hoop” keeps your energy clean, focused, and sustainable—especially in leadership and relationships. Audience reflection → What are you carrying that actually belongs to someone else? 🔎 Mentioned in the Episode: Fire Horse Energy (2026 Chinese Zodiac theme)The Three Phases of Fire: Ignition, Roaring Fire, EmbersThe Hula Hoop Principle for energetic and emotional boundariesSelf-care as a leadership responsibility, not a reward ✨ Reflection Prompts: What would change if I let joy lead my next decision?Where do I need to slow down to sustain my fire long-term?What does “oxygen” look like for me in this season? 🧠 Who This Episode Is For: Leaders who feel called to grow without

    23 min

  2. FEB 4

    Episode 37: The Power of Two: Why Focus Beats Hustle

    Episode 37: The Power of Two: Why Focus Beats Hustle In this focused and energizing solo episode, I invite you to rethink how you approach the year ahead by embracing just two priorities—one for business and one for personal life. I share why narrowing your focus isn’t about doing less for the sake of it, but about creating space for what truly matters. Inspired by the symbolism of the Fire Horse year and the proven framework from Brian Moran’s The 12 Week Year, I walk you through how passion, intensity, and action can work with you—not against you—when they’re paired with clarity. I also share my own two priorities, the mindset shifts I had to make, and how letting go of non-essential commitments has already created momentum, relief, and renewed energy. If you’re tired of spinning your wheels or carrying the weight of too many goals, this episode is an invitation to simplify, focus, and move forward with intention. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Two Priorities Are Enough I truly believe you don’t need a long list of goals to have a meaningful year. I’m focusing on just two priorities—one in my business and one in my personal life—and the clarity has been game-changing. Audience follow-up → If you stripped everything back, what are the two things that matter most right now? Fire Horse Energy: Passion Without Overwhelm For me, the Fire Horse year represents courage, intensity, and forward momentum—but only when that fire is contained. Scattered energy leads to burnout; focused energy leads to transformation. Audience follow-up → Where are you spreading yourself too thin instead of directing your fire? The Problem With Doing Too Much I talk honestly about how overcommitting can look productive on the surface, but often keeps us stuck and exhausted. Sometimes “busy” is just a way to avoid making clear decisions. Audience follow-up → What are you holding onto out of habit rather than alignment? The 12 Week Year Framework Using the 12-week sprint model has helped me shift from long, overwhelming timelines to focused action. I explain why 12 weeks creates urgency without pressure—and how it keeps goals realistic and achievable. Audience follow-up → What would meaningful progress look like for you in the next 12 weeks? Letting Go Is a Leadership Skill One of the biggest lessons I share is this: letting go is not failure—it’s leadership. When I released what wasn’t essential, everything else began to move faster and feel lighter. Audience follow-up → What do you need to say no to in order to fully support your top priorities? 🔎 Mentioned in the Episode: The 12 Week Year by Brian Moran – The goal-setting framework I use to create focus and momentumThe Fire Horse Year – A symbolic lens I use for passion, clarity, and intentional actionMy Personal and Business Priorities – Real examples of what narrowing my focus looks like in practice ✨ Reflection Prompts: If I could only move two things forward this year, what would they be?Where has “more” been costing me peace, energy, or clarity?What might change if I trusted

    18 min

  3. JAN 28

    Episode 36: Snake to Fire Horse: Taking Flight Into What’s Next (Part 3 of 3)

    In this deeply reflective solo episode, I invite you to pause, take stock, and prepare for takeoff. Using the metaphor of flight, I explore what it really means to move forward in life and leadership—by releasing old identities, outdated beliefs, and emotional “luggage” that no longer fits who you’re becoming. This episode is especially for women in leadership who feel the pull toward more—more clarity, more alignment, more impact—but know they can’t get there carrying everything from the past. I share personal stories, mindset shifts, and honest encouragement to help you get clear on your true destination, reconnect with your deeper why, and choose the next right action with courage and intention. If you’re standing at the edge of a new beginning and wondering what to leave behind, this episode is for you. 🔑 Key Takeaways:I Can’t Take Old Luggage Into a New Season I talk about the importance of naming the habits, beliefs, and stories we’ve outgrown. Growth requires discernment—what once protected or served us can quietly become the thing that holds us back. Reflection → What belief or behavior am I ready to stop carrying into my next chapter? Clarity Is What Creates Lift Before any real takeoff, I need to know where I’m going. I share why getting honest about what I actually want—not what’s expected or convenient—is essential to moving forward with confidence. Reflection → If fear wasn’t in the way, where would I choose to go next? My “Why” Has to Be Bigger Than Me I reflect on how a meaningful why—rooted in service, contribution, and impact—becomes the fuel that keeps me going when things get uncomfortable or uncertain. Reflection → Who benefits when I fully step into this next level? I Was Never Meant to Fly Alone In this episode, I open up about the role of community, mentors, and trusted co-pilots in staying aligned and resilient. No one builds a meaningful life or legacy in isolation. Reflection → Who are the people helping me stay grounded, brave, and honest? The Next Right Action Is Enough I remind myself—and you—that I don’t need the entire flight plan figured out. Momentum comes from taking the next aligned step, even when clarity feels incomplete. Reflection → What’s one small but intentional action I can take this week? 🔎 Mentioned in the Episode:The “old luggage” metaphor for outdated identities and limitationsChoosing intentional flight paths instead of reactive livingThe power of support, mentorship, and shared leadership journeysPersonal stories of letting go and choosing alignment ✨ Reflection Prompts:What season of my life or leadership is coming to a close?What am I afraid to leave behind—and what is it costing me?What would change if I trusted myself to fly higher? 🧠 Who This Episode Is For:Women in leadership navigating transition or reinventionEntrepreneurs and executives craving...

    24 min

  4. JAN 21

    Snake to Fire Horse: The Transition Gap (Part 2 of 3)

    Summary: In this deeply reflective solo episode, I explore the often-overlooked space between what was and what’s next—the transition gap. I share what it was like to leave a significant brand and spend three years in what I now call the “runway,” a season that felt quiet, disorienting, and deeply uncomfortable at times—but also essential to who I’ve become as a leader. This episode is an invitation to slow down, release old identities, and trust the timing of your evolution. Instead of rushing toward the next title, business, or role, I talk about why honoring the gap matters, how joy can become a leadership compass, and what it really takes to prepare for a powerful takeoff. If you’re in a season of change and wondering when things will finally click—this conversation is for you. 🔑 Key Takeaways: The Transition Gap Isn’t Failure—It’s a Runway I reframe the space between leaving a known identity and stepping into what’s next as preparation, not lost time. The runway is where alignment happens. Audience follow-up → Where are you pressuring yourself to “take off” before you’re ready? The Brand Hangover Is Real After leaving a big role or brand, I noticed how many habits, expectations, and validation loops I was still carrying. I call this the brand hangover—and it can quietly keep us stuck. Audience follow-up → What titles, systems, or external validation are you still holding onto that no longer fit who you’re becoming? Joy Is a Leadership Strategy, Not a Reward I share why joy isn’t something we earn after success—it’s something we must cultivate during uncertainty to guide better decisions and healthier leadership. Audience follow-up → What genuinely brings you joy right now—and are you letting it lead? The Quiet Is Where Identity Gets Rebuilt The gap is quieter. There’s less recognition and fewer external markers of success—but that silence helped me hear myself again. Audience follow-up → How comfortable are you being unseen while you grow? Momentum Comes After Release Momentum didn’t come for me until I started shedding old patterns, timelines, and expectations that no longer served me. Preparation happens long before the lift-off. Audience follow-up → What do you need to release before your next chapter can begin? 🔎 Mentioned in the Episode: The “Runway” Metaphor – How I think about transition as preparation, not stagnationBrand Hangover – The lingering identity and expectations after leaving a major roleMy Three-Year Reset – A season of rebuilding, reflection, and recommitting to joyFire Horse Energy – A preview of what’s coming next: momentum, takeoff, and bold leadership ✨ Reflection Prompts: What season of transition am I in right now?What parts of my old identity feel heavy instead of helpful?If I trusted my timing completely, what would change?How could joy guide my leadership decisions this week?span...

    23 min

  5. JAN 14

    Snake to Fire Horse: What Leaders Must Shed Before What’s Next (Part 1 of 3)

    Summary: In this reflective and grounding solo episode, I invite you to pause and take a powerful year-end inventory—one that goes beyond goals, metrics, and checklists. Inspired by the symbolism of the Year of the Snake, I explore what it really means to shed what no longer fits: outdated habits, misaligned roles, relationships, and identities that quietly drain our energy. As I look ahead to the action-driven fire energy of 2026, I share personal reflections from my own life—including divorce, career shifts, and the intentional pauses I had to take along the way. This episode is a reminder that transformation isn’t about rushing forward—it’s about creating space so we don’t carry old baggage into new chapters. If you’re standing on the edge of a new season and want to enter it with clarity instead of chaos, this episode is for you. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Leadership Requires Inventory, Not Just Intention I believe real growth begins when we take stock of what we’ve outgrown—not just what we want next. Audience follow-up → What did you carry through 2025 that no longer serves who you’re becoming? Shedding Creates Space for Alignment Like the snake, I’ve learned that leaders must release old skins to grow. Letting go creates the energetic and emotional room needed for transformation. Audience follow-up → Where are you holding on out of habit instead of alignment? Pause Before the Pivot I share how major life changes in my own journey required intentional reflection—so I didn’t bring unresolved patterns into new beginnings. Audience follow-up → What do you need to process before you move forward? Harness the Energy of What’s Coming The fire energy of 2026 calls for focus, action, and passion—but only after we’ve cleared what’s outdated. Audience follow-up → What deserves your full energy next year—and what doesn’t? Reflection Is a Leadership Skill I don’t see reflection as passive—I see it as preparation. Leaders who pause and look inward lead with more clarity, purpose, and power. Audience follow-up → How often do you intentionally slow down to reflect as a leader? 🔎 Mentioned in the Episode: The symbolism of the Year of the Snake and the power of sheddingThe energetic shift into 2026 and its fire-driven leadership themeMy personal reflections on divorce, career transitions, and intentional pausesThe practice of taking a year-end leadership inventory ✨ Reflection Prompts: What did you release in 2025—by choice or by force?What space did that release create in your life or leadership?How do you want to feel as you step into the next season?What must stay behind so you can move forward lighter? 🧠 Who This Episode Is For: Leaders navigating transition, endings, or new...

    17 min

  6. JAN 7

    The Power of Second Chances in Leadership

    Summary: In this heartfelt and joy-filled conversation, Lori sits down with longtime friend and leadership partner Christine Conroy to explore what it really means to lead with humanity. From Christine’s years at Coca-Cola to her current work at Grayston Bakery—home of the groundbreaking open hiring model—this episode is a powerful reflection on second chances, dignity at work, and leading with courage and compassion. Together, Lori and Christine share personal stories about resilience, vulnerability, and building workplaces rooted in trust and purpose. As the holiday season approaches, they also reflect on gratitude, joy, and how leaders can stay grounded and hopeful—even in challenging seasons. This episode is a reminder that great leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about presence, empathy, and believing in people. If you’re craving leadership that feels real, meaningful, and deeply human—this conversation is for you. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Second Chances Change Everything Christine shares how Grayston Bakery’s open hiring policy removes barriers and gives people the opportunity to rebuild their lives through meaningful work. Audience follow-up → Where in your leadership could you create space for someone’s fresh start? Vulnerability Is a Leadership Strength True connection comes from leaders who are willing to be real, honest, and human—not just polished and perfect. Audience follow-up → What would shift if you led your team with a little more openness? Empathy Builds Stronger Partnerships From corporate boardrooms to social enterprises, Christine and Lori discuss how empathy and mutual respect create lasting, impactful relationships. Audience follow-up → How well do you really know the people you work with—and what they’re carrying? Purpose Makes Work Matter Christine reflects on the deep fulfillment that comes from aligning values with work, and how purpose-driven leadership fuels resilience. Audience follow-up → Does your work reflect what matters most to you right now? Joy Is a Practice—Especially in Hard Seasons As the holidays approach, the conversation turns to gratitude, perspective, and choosing joy even when life feels heavy. Audience follow-up → What’s one small way you can protect your joy this season? 🔎 Mentioned in the Episode: Grayston Bakery & Open Hiring Model – A pioneering approach to employment rooted in dignity and opportunityChristine’s Leadership Journey – From Coca-Cola to purpose-driven workMentors and Meaningful Relationships – Lessons from leaders like Mike RizzoPersonal Stories of Friendship, Loss, and Growth ✨ Reflection Prompts: Where have you seen the power of a second chance—either given or received?How do you balance results with compassion as a leader?What helps you reconnect to joy when leadership feels heavy? 🧠 Who This Episode Is For: Leaders who want to lead with heart, not just authorityExecutives...

    41 min

  7. 12/31/2025

    How to Reflect, Reset, and Realign Before the New Year

    Summary: In this reflective and grounding solo episode of the Joy CEO Podcast, Lori Pine invites you into the quiet, liminal space between Christmas and New Year’s—a week that often feels suspended between what was and what’s next. Lori explores why this in-between time holds powerful potential for clarity, truth, and realignment. Drawing inspiration from Elizabeth Gilbert’s concept of “not this,” Lori shares personal stories and gentle wisdom about listening to your inner knowing—especially when it whispers instead of shouts. This episode is an invitation to pause, release what no longer fits, and consciously step toward a more aligned version of yourself as you move into 2026. If you’re craving space to breathe, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters—this episode is for you. 🔑 Key Takeaways: The Power of the Liminal Week This quiet week isn’t meant for productivity—it’s meant for presence. Lori explains why the pause between years is a natural doorway for reflection and emotional honesty. Audience follow-up → Where are you rushing when your soul is asking you to rest? “Not This” as a Compass Inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert, Lori reframes clarity as knowing what you don’t want—without needing the full answer yet. Audience follow-up → What feels like a clear “not this” in your life right now? Personal Moments of Truth Lori vulnerably shares her own “not this” realizations—moments when success, habits, or expectations no longer aligned with joy. Audience follow-up → Where have you outgrown an old version of yourself? Four Reflective Questions for the New Year Instead of resolutions, Lori offers four grounding questions to help you enter 2026 with intention and self-trust. Audience follow-up → Which question feels most alive for you—and why? 🔎 Mentioned in the Episode: Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Not This” Concept – A powerful permission slip to release misalignment without forcing answers.The idea of liminal space – That sacred in-between season where insight and clarity quietly emerge. ✨ Reflection Prompts: What am I ready to let go of before stepping into the new year?What truth have I been gently avoiding?What would joy ask of me next?How do I want to feel in 2026—not just what do I want to achieve? 🧠 Who This Episode Is For: Leaders and professionals craving clarity without pressureWomen navigating transitions or quiet inner shiftsAnyone feeling called to slow down before starting againListeners who want to lead their life—and year—from alignment, not exhaustion 📩 Want to Go Deeper?Follow Lori on a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/loripine" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    23 min

  8. 12/24/2025

    Permission to Pause: A Christmas Eve Reflection for the Joy CEO

    Episode 31: Permission to Pause: A Christmas Eve Reflection for the Joy CEO Summary: In this gentle and reflective Holiday Special, I’m sharing a Christmas Eve message straight from the heart. This episode is an invitation to slow down, breathe, and give yourself permission to feel whatever is present—joy, grief, gratitude, exhaustion, or a mix of it all. I talk about the pressure we often place on ourselves to make the holidays “magical,” and why that expectation can disconnect us from what we actually need. Instead, I encourage you to ground yourself in the present moment, release the rules, and let this season look the way you need it to look. This isn’t about doing more or being more—it’s about resting, reflecting, and offering yourself kindness. If this time of year feels tender, quiet, or complicated, this episode is for you. 🔑 Key Takeaways: Permission to Feel—Without Fixing You don’t have to force joy or gratitude. Every emotion that shows up belongs. Audience follow-up → What are you feeling right now if you let yourself be honest? Grounding in the Present Moment A simple pause and breath can bring you back to yourself when things feel heavy or overwhelming. Audience follow-up → Where can you pause today, even for 30 seconds? Letting Go of the “Perfect Holiday” Myth The holidays don’t have to look a certain way to be meaningful. Audience follow-up → What expectation can you release this season? Finding Joy From the Inside Out Joy doesn’t have to come from the calendar, the traditions, or the noise—it can come from within. Audience follow-up → What brings you a sense of peace or steadiness right now? Rest Is Not a Reward—It’s a Requirement This season can be a time to rest, reflect, and reset without guilt. Audience follow-up → How can you be a little gentler with yourself this week? ✨ Reflection Prompts: What does “enough” look like for you this holiday season? Where are you pushing when you could be resting? What would it feel like to trust yourself to set your own rules? 🧠 Who This Episode Is For: Anyone feeling overwhelmed or emotionally tender during the holidays Leaders and high-achievers who struggle to slow down Those craving a quieter, more meaningful end to the year Anyone who needs permission to pause, breathe, and just be 🎄 Wishing you peace, presence, and self-compassion—today and always. 📩 Want to Go Deeper?Follow Lori on LinkedIn to continue the conversation Book a Leadership Strategy Call with Lori: loripine.com 🎧 Subscribe to The Joy CEO...

    8 min
See All (39)

Trailer

5
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

The Joy CEO is the podcast for high-achieving professionals who are done chasing titles and tired of playing by outdated leadership rules. Hosted by former corporate VP turned Executive Coach Lori Pine, this show is your invitation to redefine success—and lead with more clarity, confidence, and joy. Each week, you’ll hear bold, honest conversations with executives, trailblazers, and changemakers who are rising on their own terms. You’ll learn what it really takes to thrive at the top—from emotional intelligence and self-reflection to presence, purpose, and powerful leadership. If you're ready to grow your impact and your well-being, hit subscribe. Because joy isn’t just personal—it’s a leadership superpower. And your rise starts here.

Information

  • Creator
    Lori Pine
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    39
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Lori Pine, The JOY CEO
  • Show Website
    The JOY CEO