Summary

In this episode of Beyond the Norm, Norma O' Kelly shares a heartfelt update on her podcast journey, reflecting on the challenges of balancing personal and professional life. She discusses her desire for more fun and connection, the launch of new programs aimed at supporting budding entrepreneurs, and the importance of intuition and stillness in her work. Norma emphasises the need for self-compassion and the joy of community as she navigates her path forward.

Takeaways

• Norma emphasises the importance of not letting the podcast become a chore.
• She expresses guilt for not publishing guest interviews in a timely manner.
• Norma acknowledges her humanity and the messiness of life.
• She reflects on the need for more fun and balance in her life.
• Norma is ready to celebrate and enjoy life beyond work.
• She recognizes the costs of entrepreneurship on her personal life.
• Norma desires to let her hair down and have fun this summer.
• She is launching an accelerator program for aspiring entrepreneurs.
• Self-belief is a significant barrier for many in pursuing their passions.
• Norma highlights the power of stillness for enhancing intuition.




Chapters




00:00 Welcome Back and Podcast Update

02:55 Navigating Personal and Professional Life

06:13 Desire for Fun and Balance

08:58 Launching New Programs and Self-Belief

11:47 Intuition and Stillness in Work

Join me on my Telegram for latest updates - unique updates I don't share anywhere else!

Telegram link: https://t.me/+fKwiSZni3fMwNzk0

In this episode, I interview Eileen Clair, a holistic therapist and teacher, who shares her journey into the world of healing through Louise Hay's work.

Eileen discusses the importance of community, forgiveness, self-love, and the power of language in personal growth. The conversation explores how you can navigate your challenges, find purpose, and embrace their unique paths while fostering connections with others.

Eileen shares the significance of compassion, both for oneself and for others, as a catalyst for healing and transformation.

Really heartwarming and powerful interview

Do let us both know what you think x

Eileen's website:

https://eileenclair.com/

Eileen on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/eileenclair/

Join Norma in her new telegram Channel:

https://t.me/+fKwiSZni3fMwNzk0

Norma's next 'Threshold of Summer' Retreat in SoEarth in Kill. Co Kildare

on Sunday April 27th. Please Follow Norma's stories for this going on sales this week to her waitlist Mid March.

Takeaways

• Eileen Clare emphasises the interconnectedness of individuals on their healing journeys.
• Forgiveness is a powerful tool for personal liberation and healing.
• Self-love begins with compassion towards oneself.
• Language and affirmations play a crucial role in shaping our self-perception.
• Community support is essential for personal growth and healing.
• Clarity in emotions can sometimes come from acknowledging sadness.
• The journey of healing is ongoing and requires continuous self-reflection.
• Courage is necessary to question and change one's circumstances.
• Rest is not a sign of weakness but a necessary part of self-care.
• The future of healing lies in building authentic connections and communities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Connection to Louise Hay's Work

07:36 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing

13:30 The Role of Community and Spiritual Connection

18:47 The Power of Forgiveness in Healing

24:55 Forgiveness as a Path to Freedom

28:00 The Power of Self-Compassion

34:26 Reframing Self-Love and Kindness

40:42 Healing Through Awareness and Community

47:03 Finding Courage in Unfulfilling Environments

50:29 Introduction to Eileen Clare and Upcoming Retreats

51:26 Marketing Master Classes and Support for Entrepreneurs

51:56 Engagement and Community Building through Telegram and Social Media

Keywords:

Keywords

Eileen Clair, Louise Hay, holistic healing, self-love, forgiveness, community, personal growth, energy work, emotional healing, wellness

🎙️ Beyond the Norm Podcast: Career Change at 40 – Is It Too Late? (Spoiler: No, It’s Your Time!)

Episode Summary

In this episode of Beyond the Norm, I dive deep into the realities of career change in midlife and beyond.. in fact no matter what age you.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, burned out, or questioning whether there’s more out there for you—this one’s for you.

I share my own story of leaving corporate life, the doubts and fears I faced, and why freedom has been my number one value ever since.

l explore:
✔️ The common reasons people seek a career change at 40 (burnout, lack of meaning, life changes).
✔️ The biggest barriers—including fear and other people’s expectations.
✔️ Seven essential steps to navigating a successful transition without waiting for permission.

If you’re sitting on the edge of change, unsure if it’s too late, know this: You are not starting from scratch. You are bringing everything you’ve already built into this next chapter.

🔹 Are you ready to take imperfect action? Let’s get started.

Key Takeaways

✨ It’s never too late to step into more meaningful work.
✨ Freedom is a core value that often drives career change.
✨ You don’t need fixing—you’re already whole.
✨ Life’s fragility can be a catalyst for change.
✨ Recognition in the workplace is crucial for fulfilment.
✨ Many people seek change in their 40s because they crave purpose.
✨ Financial considerations can be a valid reason to pivot.
✨ Self-employment can break familial expectations.
✨ Fear feels real, but it’s often unfounded.
✨ Rest is a strategy, not a luxury.
✨ Imperfect action is always better than inaction.
✨ Careers aren’t linear anymore—embrace the squiggly path.

⏳ 00:00 – Welcome Back and New Beginnings
🎭 02:46 – The Journey of Career Change
🔥 11:24 – Catalysts for Change in Midlife
💡 29:46 – Common Reasons for Seeking Change
🚧 37:57 – Barriers to Career Change
🛠️ 40:50 – Overcoming Career Change Barriers
📍 50:29 – Seven Steps to Navigating Career Change at 40
📖 01:02:10 – The Squiggly Careers Approach to Career Growth
🌱 01:08:25 – Embracing Imperfect Action and Community Support
🚀 01:19:00 – The Catalyst for Change and Future Opportunities

🔹 “Freedom is my number one value.”
🔹 “Life can end just tomorrow morning.”
🔹 “Peace is the new luxury.”
🔹 “You want more than just survival mode.”
🔹 “You can create your own peace.”
🔹 “What does society think you should do?”
🔹 “Breaking rules of belonging in my family.”
🔹 “Fear—false evidence appearing as real.”
🔹 “You can start as you are.”
🔹 “Nothing is forever. It's an experiment.”
🔹 “Expect to be taken seriously.”
🔹 “You are not starting from scratch.”
🔹 “Listen to your own voice. You got this.”
🔹 “Rest is a strategy.”
🔹 “Take imperfect action. Just start now.”
🔹 “You are on the edge of something.”
🔹 “Careers aren’t straight lines anymore—they’re squiggly, and that’s okay.”

READ MY BLOG on this same topic; https://www.normaokelly.com/blogbeyondthenorm/careerchangeat-40-your-7-step-roadmap-to-a-job-you-love

💬 DM me on Instagram (@normaokellysystemiccoach) and tell me: What’s your biggest fear about career change at 40?
💡 Need clarity? Book a 90-Min Clarity & Confidence Session—I’ll help you get unstuck and map your next steps. https://beyondthenorm.thrivecart.com/90-min-withnorma/

📢 Join my Telegram group for conscious career conversations and support from like-minded people navigating change. https://t.me/+fKwiSZni3fMwNzk0

📖 Check out Squiggly Careers by Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis—it’s a brilliant reframe on how career paths work today.

✨ Share this episode with a friend who’s also thinking about a career shift—support is everything!

🎧 Subscribe & Leave a Review! Your feedback helps get this podcast to those who need it most.

Go gently, and remember: You are not too late. You are right on time. 🌿

PS have you read my blog yet? https://www.normaokelly.com/blogbeyondthenorm/careerchangeat-40-your-7-step-roadmap-to-a-job-you-love

In this episode of Beyond the Norm, I discuss the importance of finding and using one's voice, particularly in the context of public speaking and self-expression.

I explore how family systems shape our ability to communicate and the fears that often hold us back from speaking up.

Through personal anecdotes and coaching insights, I emphasise the need for confidence and the role of supportive relationships in overcoming these barriers.

The conversation highlights practical strategies for building a strong voice and the significance of authenticity in communication. In this conversation, I explore the themes of authenticity, purpose, and the power of voice in communication.

I speak about the importance of drawing strength from personal experiences, including grief and loss, to empower oneself in speaking up.

The discussion also covers practical tips for building confidence, setting boundaries in sharing personal stories, and the art of storytelling as a means of effective communication.

I encourages you to embrace your own unique voice and to recognise the value of your stories in connecting with others

Takeaways:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Finding Your Voice

09:00 Overcoming Fear of Authority

15:42 Resourcing Yourself for Confidence

26:23 Building a Support System for Your Voice3

3:22 The Power of Purpose in Communication

38:44 Building Confidence and Authority

44:55 Setting Boundaries in Sharing

53:01 Embracing Your Unique Voice

Follow me on instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/normaokellysystemiccoach/

or LInkedIN ; https://www.linkedin.com/in/normaokelly/

If you would would consider working with me, check out my 90 min sessions that could support your Voice in 2025: https://beyondthenorm.thrivecart.com/90-min-withnorma/

In this episode of Beyond the Norm, I discuss my journey of transitioning from a corporate job to solo entrepreneurship.

I share my personal experiences and insights, emphasising the importance of redefining success, building a safety net, finding your niche, and the necessity of asking for help.

The conversation explores the emotional challenges of transitions and highlights the significance of community support in navigating these changes. I encourage you to embrace imperfection and take actionable steps towards your goals, reminding you that success is a personal journey.

Sound Bites

"Start before you're ready."

"Perfection doesn't exist."

"You can't do it on your own."

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Transitions: From Corporate to Entrepreneurship

06:01 Building Your Safety Net: Financial and Emotional Security

12:05 The Journey of Self-Discovery: Who Am I Now?

18:13 Embracing Change: The Emotional Side of Transition

24:07 Brave Moves: Encouraging Others to Thrive

32:20 Resilience and Perseverance in Personal Growth

40:01 Networking and Community Engagement

48:00 The Importance of Asking for Help

53:10 Finding Support and Community in Business

Questions for journaling:

Journal Questions for Transitioning from Job to Solopreneur

Lesson 1: Redefine Success on Your Terms

Lesson 2: Build Your Safety Net (Financial and Emotional)

Lesson 3: Focus on One Niche and Build Authority

Lesson 4: Start Before You’re Ready

For more info on Black Friday money off 90 min session

DM me on ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/normaokellysystemiccoach⁠⁠

In this episode of Beyond the Norm, I reflect on my evolving understanding of purpose as a journey rather than a destination. I share my personal experiences with loss, health struggles, and the transformative power of coaching. Through my narrative, I emphasise the importance of self-care, the impact of grief, and my shift from being helpful to being useful in my interactions with others. I also discuss my journey into systemic coaching and the lessons I've learned along the way, ultimately highlighting the ongoing nature of discovering one’s purpose.

Takeaways

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Purpose and Journey
03:39 The Evolution of Purpose
12:44 Key Milestones in the Purpose Journey
21:47 Awakening to Self-Care and Healing
25:40 Exploring New Realms of Wellness
32:49 The Awakening: Coaching as a New Path
39:49 Facing Grief: A Mother's Battle with Cancer
45:04 Legacy and Purpose: Lessons from Loss
50:56 Embracing Motherhood: A New Chapter
51:43 Navigating the Sperm Donation Process
54:53 Family Health Crisis and Personal Reflection
57:48 Coping with Loss and Grief
01:00:44 The Impact of COVID-19 on Personal Life
01:03:40 Health Challenges and Endometriosis
01:09:53 Facing Surgery and Embracing Change
01:18:59 Navigating Menopause and Therapy
01:20:55 Transforming Purpose: From Helping to Being Useful
01:23:48 The Power of Voice and Energy in Healing
01:26:42 Embracing Change: Human Design and Coaching
01:28:08 Unexpected Health Discoveries
01:37:25 Training as a Funeral Celebrant: A New Purpose
01:41:19 The Journey of Purpose: Continuous Evolution

Sound Bites
"Purpose is a journey, not a destination."
"You have to care for yourself before you can care for anybody else."
"Leave a little room in your heart for the unexpected."

I am so grateful for your listens, kindly can you please rate, review and share this episode with someone who may need some support their journey with purpose or going through a challenging time. This is a story of hope.

Follow me on Insta:  https://www.instagram.com/normaokellysystemiccoach

For a 90 min strategic coaching session book here:

https://calendly.com/normaokelly/90-min-systemic-coaching-session

In this episode of Beyond the Norm, I delve into the principles of systemic coaching, focusing on the importance of maintaining a healthy balance in life.

I discuss the concept of balance of exchange, the dangers of overgiving, and the signs of burnout.

I share the 5 secrets to achieving a healthy balance,

1. Emphasising the need for resourcing

2. Right Sizing oneself

3. Honouring past contributions & attending at Endings

4. Setting boundaries

5. Give and Take without any obligation or sense of duty

I share the importance of reflection and acknowledgment.

The episode concludes with a heartfelt gratitude to listeners

Key points:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Systemic Coaching and Balance

03:14 Understanding Balance of Exchange

06:00The Impact of Over-giving

08:50 Recognising Signs of Imbalance

12:03 The Importance of Resourcing

14:53 Right Sizing Yourself

17:40 Honouring Hierarchy in Relationships

20:32 Acknowledging Past Contributors

23:00 Setting Boundaries and Saying No

26:09 Creating Closure and Ending Well

28:49 Giving and Taking Without Obligation

31:55 Reflection and Action Steps

34:36 Conclusion and Gratitude

In this episode, I explore the concepts of belonging and authenticity. I talk about how both are intangible yet essential parts of our lives.

Drawing from my own experiences, I reflect on how belonging has shaped my sense of self and the impact it has on my identity. I also dive into the importance of bridging the gap between belonging and authenticity, and how vital it is to find tribes or communities where we can truly be ourselves.

I highlight why prioritising authenticity is so important, and offer support for those of us on this journey towards self-discovery and belonging.

Keywords: belonging, authenticity, sense of self, tribes, communities, bridging, support

Takeaways:

Sound Bites:

Chapters:

I am so grateful for your listens, kindly can you please rate, review and share this episode with someone who may need some support on their belonging and authenticity right now!

For more info:

In this episode, I discuss the misconception that bravery alone drives creative change.

I emphasise that discomfort, not bravery, is actually the primary trigger for these shifts.

I delve into how fear can push us forward and stress the importance of rewriting our own rules and embracing networking.

Additionally, I highlight the role of coaching, the significance of attending to our endings, and the power of resourcing and manifesting our desires.

Throughout this podcast, I stress the importance of embracing vulnerability and not feeling pressured to meet all coaching expectations.

I share insights into the ups and downs of transitions and the necessity of self-compassion.

My personal experiences with attending to endings underscore how crucial this process is for progress. Finally, I discuss the empowering act of manifesting and creating the life we envision.

Keywords: bravery, creative change, discomfort, fear, rewriting rules, networking, coach, endings, resourcing, manifesting, vulnerability, transitions, self-compassion

Takeaways:

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and the Misconception of Bravery

03:23 Embracing Discomfort as the Trigger for Creative Changes

08:35 Harnessing the Power of Fear in Making a Creative Change

11:28 Rewriting the Rules and Defining What is Important

16:42 The Power of Networking and Building a Supportive Community

18:48 The Role of a Coach in Guiding and Supporting the Transition

20:42 Attending to Endings and Finding Closure

23:10 Resourcing Ourselves and Nurturing Our Journey

25:59 Embracing Vulnerability and Imperfection

29:54 Navigating Transitions with Self-Compassion

31:45 The Importance of Attending to Endings

46:08 Manifesting and Creating the Life You Want

Summary

In this episode of the Beyond the Norm podcast, host Norma O'Kelly reflects on her journey of being self-employed for the past 12 months.

She discusses the blocks she encountered and the lessons she learned along the way.

Norma explores the idea of life beyond the corporate bubble and the rules of belonging that keep us in certain systems.

She emphasises the importance of finding one's true purpose and being aligned with it.

Norma also highlights the significance of minding one's energy and being open to new possibilities.

Keywords:

self-employment, corporate life, blocks, purpose, rules of belonging, energy.

Key takeaways

Life beyond the corporate bubble is about exploring what exists outside of the systems we are in.

Belonging and authenticity can sometimes be in conflict, but it is important to honor both.

Leaving the corporate world can bring a new pace of life and a need for rest and self-care.

Finding a supportive community and a coach can be invaluable in navigating the challenges of self-employment.

Minding one's energy and being open to new possibilities are key to success in entrepreneurship.

Belonging vs. Authenticity: Navigating the Conflict

Finding Support and Guidance in a Community and a Coach

Top quotes:

​"There's no growth without guilt."

​"The sea and laughter are a tonic for the soul."

​"Being useful to others is more powerful than just helping them."


Chapters:

00:00 Introduction: Reflecting on the First Year of Self-Employment

03:52 Life Beyond the Corporate Bubble: Questioning the Rules of Belonging

08:57 Finding Belonging and Support in the Journey of Self-Employment

14:12 Uncovering and Overcoming Blocks: Redefining Your Identity

• 27:42 The Power of Energy: Minding Your Frequency
• 37:16 Feedback and Reflection: Essential for Growth and Learning
• 


Find Norma on:

Her New website; ⁠normaokelly.com⁠

Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/normaokellysystemiccoach⁠

LinkedIN: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/normaokelly/⁠

Please, review, like and share and thank you so much for your loyalty and listen! Always love to hear from you and what you thought of the episode!