In this episode of 'More Than Work,' Rabiah sits down with Jessica DeGroot, president and founder of the ThirdPath Institute. Jessica shares how her organization has been advocating for work-life integration for 25 years, operating as a virtual organization long before the pandemic made remote work mainstream. She discusses the importance of creating partnerships at home and in the workplace, supporting leaders to live whole lives beyond their careers, and building communities where people can find support in balancing work with caregiving, personal passions, and other life priorities. Jessica opens up about her own struggles with balance, the concept of "code red moments," and practical strategies for avoiding chronic overwork. They explore topics including remote work culture, the importance of quiet time for reflection, and how to build meaningful connections in virtual environments. Plus, Jessica shares insights about her family, her 96-year-old mother's inspiring outlook, and the skills ThirdPath teaches to help people create sustainable, fulfilling lives.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to More Than Work

00:38 Meet Jessica DeGroot: President and Founder of ThirdPath Institute

02:30 What is ThirdPath Institute?

04:36 Working Remotely for 25 Years

07:30 Who ThirdPath Serves and How

11:45 Jessica's Career Journey and Starting ThirdPath

15:58 The Importance of Partnership at Home

19:41 Balancing Work and Life as a Leader

22:18 Code Red Moments and Getting Out of Balance

26:34 Remote Work and Building Community

30:42 Tips for Teams: Creating Connection Virtually

33:28 Advice for the Overwhelmed

37:04 The Importance of Quiet Time

39:50 Mantra: It's Not Impossible, It Just Feels Impossible

40:34 Fun Five Questions

44:30 Who Inspires Jessica Right Now

45:42 How to Find ThirdPath Institute

46:30 Closing Thoughts

Note from Host:

Jessica DeGroot and I first met via email and then for a chat to see if we were a good fit for each other’s podcast. The truth is, when I spoke with her, it was like speaking with someone I had known for years. I can only hope to reach her level of wisdom. I was fortunate enough to be a guest on the “Taking Your Third Path podcast (listen here) and am happy to share this episode with Jessica on More Than Work now.

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Find Jessica

Website: https://thirdpath.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThirdPathInst/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thirdpathinstitute/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfgfxBj51QGCHc-2px2H_rKxx4u76QfUg

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

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