Make Minutes Matter

In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly welcomes back John Paguaga for a candid conversation about knowing when it’s time to move on, whether from a long career or a role that no longer brings energy or impact. Together, they explore the moment when meaningful work begins to feel like obligation, and how self-awareness helps you decide whether to refresh your path or pivot before burnout affects your brand.

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In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly welcomes back John Paguaga for a candid conversation about recognizing when it’s time to step away from a decades-long career and navigating the uncertainty of what comes next. After more than 40 years in the workforce, John shares the moment he realized “the rat race needed one less rat,” reflecting on the kind of exhaustion that doesn’t come from physical fatigue but from years of responsibility, pressure, and constant motion. Together, Karen and John explore the power of self-awareness, understanding your core values, and identifying your true strengths as the foundation for reinventing yourself, whether that means evolving within your current role or stepping into an entirely new chapter.

John opens up about the difficult but necessary process of acknowledging when something no longer feels aligned, and the courage it takes to admit that change may be the right path forward. The conversation dives into what it really means to feel “on fire” in your work, why authentic recognition matters, and how many professionals quietly wrestle with the tension between obligation and fulfillment.

He also shares the unexpected turns of his post-retirement journey, from searching online for “fun things to do for early retirees” to becoming a New York City tour guide, eventually leading 250 tours for more than 2,500 visitors. Yet even in that new chapter, John describes the moment he recognized the spark had faded again, reminding listeners that reinvention isn’t a one-time decision but an ongoing process of listening to yourself and adapting.

This episode is a must-listen for professionals approaching retirement, contemplating a career transition, or simply wondering if there’s more to life than the daily grind. Be sure to subscribe to Make Minutes Matter for more conversations about purpose, reinvention, and making every minute count.

Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9

This book is for leaders who:

If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader

This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/_) with Executive Producer Matthew “MoJo” Jones and edited by Anthony Parisi.

CHAPTERS

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Together, they unpack the importance of curiosity and asking questions, and why AI can serve as a judgment-free environment for developing confidence before stepping into high-stakes conversations. Darryl reflects on the balance between “book smarts” and “street smarts,” emphasizing that real professional wisdom is built at the intersection of theory, lived experience, and mistakes. He challenges the myth of linear career progression, arguing that detours, lateral moves, and even failures often create stronger leaders with clearer values and better judgment.

The conversation also explores why today’s professionals need permission to fail, how memorable missteps shape ethics and integrity more than easy wins, and why broad, non-linear experiences often lead to more grounded decision-making. Throughout, Darryl reinforces the idea that growth rarely looks perfect on paper — and that’s exactly the point.This episode is a must-listen for legal professionals, managers, and anyone navigating career development in an AI-driven world. It’s a reminder that progress isn’t about avoiding mistakes, but about learning how to use them.

Connect with Darryl Chiang on LinkedIn and be sure to subscribe for more conversations that make every minute matter.

Connect with Darryl on LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darryl-chiang-63524/

This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative with Executive Producers Matthew "MoJo" Jones, and Editors Anthony Parisi and Yuval Yosha of Big Fable. Graphic Design by Mohamed Naser.

Filmed at Wolff Studios in Brooklyn, NYC

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Make your next 30 minutes count with new episodes delivered to your inbox. Click here: https://karen-gilhooly.kit.com/makeminutesmatter1

In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly sits down with Darryl Chiang, Director in Google’s Legal Department, for an honest and thought-provoking conversation about career fulfillment, pivots, and purpose. Darryl shares his unconventional journey from nearly walking away from law school to building a meaningful career in corporate law, unpacking the realities behind prestigious titles and the internal questions many professionals are afraid to ask. Together, they explore imposter syndrome, the gap between expectations and reality in big law, and the courage it takes to admit when something isn’t working.

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Join us for part two of our engaging conversation with Zara and Sean from Watson and Young. In this episode, we delve into the importance of taking risks, entrepreneurial inspirations, and the journey of building a business. Learn how Zara's creative background and Sean's organizational skills played crucial roles in their success. We also discuss overcoming career ruts, managing anxieties, and the transformative power of listening to your inner voice. Plus, Zara and Sean share valuable tips for those looking to liberate themselves from unfulfilling careers. Don't miss their inspiring story of turning passion into a thriving intellectual property firm.

About Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young

Zara and Sean are the powerhouse husband-and-wife team behind Watson & Young PLLC, a premier law firm dedicated to protecting entrepreneurs’ brands at the highest level. After seeing too many founders lose the rights to names and businesses they built from nothing, they set out to create a firm that does more than file paperwork, they defend legacies and secures the future of brands.

Zara is a fierce advocate in trademark law, known for giving founders the confidence to scale without fear of copycats. Sean brings sharp strategy and precision to every trademark search, filing, and enforcement matter, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Together, they’ve protected more than 900 brands across the globe. While raising two daughters, they continue to build a practice rooted in family, faith, and legacy, with one mission: to safeguard what matters most so visionary founders can thrive.

Connect with Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young at

Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9

This book is for leaders who:

✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In.

✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters.

✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention.

If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader

This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative Executive Producers Matthew Jones, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.

00:00 Reflecting on Life's Risks

00:17 Introduction to Zara and Sean

00:28 The Building Blocks Concept

00:57 Zara's Entrepreneurial Journey

02:00 The Birth of a Content Creator

02:58 COVID's Impact on Creativity

04:17 Sean's Contribution and Systems

05:07 The Importance of Organization

07:40 Balancing Career and Personal Life

10:58 The Wake-Up Call

16:17 Embracing Risk and Purpose

17:59 Conclusion and Farewell

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In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, host Karen Gilhooly interviews Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young from Watson & Young PLLC, an intellectual property firm based in New York City. They discuss their unique career journeys, highlighting the challenges and risks they faced in transitioning from less fulfilling law careers to creating their own successful practice. 

Zara shares her initial passion for special education law and her ultimate pivot to intellectual property to protect content creators, while Sean recounts his arduous time in housing court and his eventual leap into joining the family business. 

Their stories emphasize the importance of taking risks, being 'all in,' and demonstrating to their children what it means to be passionate and alive in the workplace.

About Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young

Zara and Sean are the powerhouse husband-and-wife team behind Watson & Young PLLC, a premier law firm dedicated to protecting entrepreneurs’ brands at the highest level. After seeing too many founders lose the rights to names and businesses they built from nothing, they set out to create a firm that does more than file paperwork, they defend legacies and secures the future of brands.

Zara is a fierce advocate in trademark law, known for giving founders the confidence to scale without fear of copycats. Sean brings sharp strategy and precision to every trademark search, filing, and enforcement matter, ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Together, they’ve protected more than 900 brands across the globe. While raising two daughters, they continue to build a practice rooted in family, faith, and legacy, with one mission: to safeguard what matters most so visionary founders can thrive.

Connect with Zara Watson-Young and Sean Young at watsonandyoung.com/

Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9

This book is for leaders who:

✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In.

✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters.

✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention.

If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader

This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative Executive Producers Matthew Jones, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.

00:00 Introduction: Time and Career Reflections

00:22 Meet Zara and Sean

01:18 Zara's Journey into Law

05:36 Sean's Career Path

09:34 Taking the Leap: Building Watson & Young

20:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly sits down with Wayne Brown to explore the critical role of authentic networking in both personal and professional life. Wayne shares how focusing on authentic networking helped him build his successful company, The Walker Group. From starting with no clients to partnering with major banks and fintechs, Wayne emphasizes the importance of giving first and receiving second. The conversation also delves into overcoming career roadblocks, taking calculated risks, and growing through connections. Wayne's insights offer invaluable advice for those looking to enhance their networking skills and build meaningful relationships. Be sure to tune in for practical tips on how to get started with effective networking today!

About Wayne Brown

Wayne Brown is the Managing Partner of The Walker Group, a boutique FinTech Consulting Company. Starting a company in 2007, at the outset of financial crisis was no easy task. The Walker Group sits at the intersection of FinTech, banks and payment processors. From the beginning to now, The Walker Group has helped hundreds of companies launch and promote their product to new customers, partner with banks and expand to other global markets. Whether directly through our partnerships or throughout clients we have connected FinTechs and positioned them for growth with some of the largest global banks, regional banks and credit unions.

Connect with Wayne Brown via email at [email protected] 

Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9

This book is for leaders who:

✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In.

✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters.

✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention.

If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader

This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative Executive Producers Matthew Jones, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.

00:00 The Importance of Networking 

00:34 Overcoming Career Roadblocks 

01:46 Starting a New Business 

02:54 The Value of Networking 

07:13 Wayne’s Journey Building the Walker Group 

13:11 Helping Others Through Networking 

15:46 Success Stories from Networking 

18:04 Personal Reflections on Networking 

19:12 The Importance of Taking Risks 

20:52 Leveraging Past Experiences 

24:52 Building a Strong Network 

28:09 Conclusion and Contact Information

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In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, Karen Gilhooly welcomes accomplished business professional and dear friend Wayne Brown. They delve into Wayne's journey from the early days of electronic banking to his current entrepreneurial ventures. Wayne shares valuable insights on embracing change, the importance of courage, relationships, and curiosity, and how his pioneering work in digital payments parallels today's rapid technological advancements. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with lessons on career growth, feedback, and making a meaningful impact. And be sure not to miss Part 2 for more of Wayne's tricks of the trade!

About Wayne Brown

Wayne Brown is the Managing Partner of The Walker Group, a boutique FinTech Consulting Company. Starting a company in 2007, at the outset of financial crisis was no easy task. The Walker Group sits at the intersection of FinTech, banks and payment processors. From the beginning to now, The Walker Group has helped hundreds of companies launch and promote their product to new customers, partner with banks and expand to other global markets. Whether directly through our partnerships or throughout clients we have connected FinTechs and positioned them for growth with some of the largest global banks, regional banks and credit unions. 

Connect with Wayne Brown via email at [email protected] 

Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9

This book is for leaders who:

✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In.

✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters.

✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention.

If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader

This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative Executive Producers Matthew Jones, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.

00:00 Introduction: Embracing Change and Opportunity

00:24 Meet Wayne Brown: A Journey Through Time

01:18 The Birth of Electronic Banking

04:35 Navigating Rapid Change and Innovation

10:50 Lessons Learned: Courage, Relationships, and Curiosity

14:14 The Importance of Feedback and Adaptability

17:41 Conclusion: All Things with Purpose

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In this insightful episode, Karen Gilhooly sits down with Heather Bellini to discuss the transformative impact of AI in the workplace, strategies for effective leadership, and the importance of embracing change. Heather shares her perspective on integrating AI tools into the workplace, the importance of constructive feedback, and what personal and professional successes truly look like. Tune in for valuable tips on navigating today's evolving work environment.

About Heather Bellini

Heather is the President and Chief Financial Officer at InvestCloud, a global leader in financial software and digital wealth management solutions. Prior to InvestCloud, she served as CFO at a cybersecurity software firm Deep Instinct and spent nearly 10 years as a Partner at Goldman Sachs, where she covered the Software & Select Internet Sector and led the Technology Research Group.  In 2020, Heather was named one of Barron's 100 Most Influential Women in U.S. Finance.

Connect with Heather on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bellini-6177a/

Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9

This book is for leaders who:

✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In.

✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters.

✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention.

If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader

This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative Executive Producers Matthew Jones and Lauren Feighan, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.

00:00 Introduction: The Rise of AI in Business

00:48 Effective Team Leadership and Constructive Feedback

02:17 Embracing Change and Innovation

06:56 AI's Impact on Business Operations

15:11 Personal Reflections and Career Highlights

17:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of Make Minutes Matter, host Karen Gilhooly sits down with Heather Bellini, President and CFO of InvestCloud. Heather shares her fascinating career journey, from working at Lehman Brothers, Citigroup, and Goldman Sachs to her current role. They dive into the importance of mentorship, the value of feedback, and the nuances of transitioning from being an advisor to a doer. Heather discusses her experience with transformational change, the significance of patience and discipline, and her insights on leadership and team building within a large organization. 

About Heather Bellini

Heather is the President and Chief Financial Officer at InvestCloud, a global leader in financial software and digital wealth management solutions. Prior to InvestCloud, she served as CFO at a cybersecurity software firm Deep Instinct and spent nearly 10 years as a Partner at Goldman Sachs, where she covered the Software & Select Internet Sector and led the Technology Research Group.  In 2020, Heather was named one of Barron's 100 Most Influential Women in U.S. Finance.

Stay tuned for Part 2 for more in-depth insights from Heather Bellini's remarkable career and connect with Heather on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-bellini-6177a/

Dive deeper from the podcast and check out Host Karen Gilhooly's book - The Three Bucket Leader https://a.co/d/08vuNA9

This book is for leaders who:

✅ Want to inspire their teams to be All-In.

✅ Need to reclaim their time and focus on what truly matters.

✅ Are ready to align their influence with purpose and lead with intention.

If that's YOU, this book will change the way you lead. Download the first chapter for free at: www.karengilhooly/three-bucket-leader

This podcast was Produced by Rainbow Creative Executive Producers Matthew Jones and Lauren Feighan, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.

00:00 Introduction and Opening Thoughts 

00:20 Meet Heather Bellini: Career Beginnings 

01:39 The Importance of Mentorship 

03:01 Feedback and Perception 

13:09 Transitioning to Corporate Life 

18:30 Closing Remarks and Next Episode Teaser

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