
Career Sessions, Career Lessons
Each of us has a unique career story to tell. For the lucky few, their career trajectories are like rockets heading for the stars, with no turning back. More typically, our career paths are more like a game of Chutes and Ladders, with advances and setbacks along the way. On this podcast, guests from a range of industries and backgrounds share their career journeys and the lessons they've learned. Hear from C-level executives, leading academics, entrepreneurs, mid-level leaders, ex-military members, leadership coaches and other career experts, non-profit workers, and gig economy participants. Each guest shares their unique story and career insights to inform and inspire your own path. Career Sessions is part of PathWise.io. Whether you’re just a few years out of school or well into your professional life, PathWise helps you live the career you deserve. PathWise provides comprehensive career and professional development coaching, content, courses, and community, backed by a group of leading coaches and career management experts. Career Sessions’ host, James (J.R.) Lowry, has had multiple careers of his own and learned countless lessons along the way. A Duke engineer by background, he spent the early part of his career as an officer in the US Air Force . From there, J.R. earned an MBA from Harvard Business School to accelerate his transition into the private sector. Following grad school, he spent over a decade with the consulting firm, McKinsey and Company, working with clients across a range of industries and business situations. He then made a second career shift into financial services, spending time at Fidelity Investments and State Street Bank. Most recently, he joined Janus Henderson Investments as their Chief Operating Officer. Multiple leadership development programs honed his skills, advanced his career, and fueled his desire to help others with their professions. He hosts this podcast in a personal capacity, and any views expressed are his own and not those of his current or any former employer.
Latest episodes

Aug 26, 2024 • 49min
The Untapped Power Of Discovery, And How It Can Help Leaders At All Levels, With Karen Golden-Biddle
In this episode, Junior Lowry dives into the concept of embracing organizational discovery with Karen Golden-Biddle, a Professor of Management at Boston University. Karen shares insights from her research and upcoming book, The Untapped Power of Discovery, exploring how organizations can unleash creativity and drive change by integrating discovery processes into their operations. Tune in to learn how embracing the unknown can transform the way we approach challenges and foster innovation in any organization.Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at [insert URL for the transcript of this episode.]

Aug 19, 2024 • 52min
How A Golf Pro Built A 7-Figure Digital Business, With Eric Cogorno
Looking to turn your golf expertise into a lucrative online business? Discover how to leverage digital platforms to build a thriving coaching empire. In this episode, J.R. Lowry sits down with Eric Cogorno to delve into his transformative journey from traditional in-person golf coaching to a thriving online presence. Emphasizing the challenges and triumphs of this transition, he shares insights into the evolution of his business, the critical role of digital platforms, and how his approach to content creation has adapted over time. His story highlights the blend of perseverance, adaptability, and strategic thinking required to thrive in the digital age of golf coaching. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/eric-cogorno/.

Aug 12, 2024 • 43min
A Peek Into The Aviation Industry, With Julien Martinson
In this episode, J.R. Lowry welcomes Julien Martinson, an expert in aviation careers. Julien shares his passion for the aviation industry, discussing its progress over the last century and the opportunities it offers. From the global pilot shortage to technological advancements in air traffic control, Julien provides insights into the evolving landscape of aviation. He also introduces his book, The Ultimate Guide to Careers in Aviation, which explores key career paths in the industry. Join us for an engaging discussion on the future of aviation and how young professionals can navigate their way to successful careers.Check out the full series of “Career Sessions, Career Lessons” podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcast/julien-martinsonBecome a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now

Aug 5, 2024 • 40min
Finding Financial - And Time - Freedom With Brian Herriot
Discover the key to time freedom strategy with financial coach Brian Herriot. In this eye-opening episode, Brian shares his insights on breaking free from the traditional work-life paradigm and achieving both financial independence and personal fulfillment. Host J.R. Lowry explores Brian’s journey from corporate consultant to freedom-focused entrepreneur, uncovering valuable lessons along the way. Learn how to balance work, savings, and lifestyle to create a sustainable path towards a more flexible and rewarding career. Whether you’re a mid-career professional looking for change or an aspiring entrepreneur seeking balance, this episode offers fresh perspectives on redefining success and reclaiming your time.Check out the full series of “Career Sessions, Career Lessons” podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcastsbrian-herriot

Jul 29, 2024 • 47min
Leading With Light, With Jennifer Mulholland And Jeff Shuck
Discover the transformative power of Conscious Leadership Growth with Jennifer Mulholland and Jeff Shuck, co-founders of Plenty Consulting. In this episode, they explore how connecting with your inner light can revolutionize your approach to leadership and personal development. Delve into the concept of "leading with light" and learn why traditional leadership models may fall short in today's complex world. Jennifer and Jeff share insights from their book, discussing the importance of self-awareness, alignment, and intentionality in becoming a more effective and fulfilled leader. Uncover the four guiding lights that can help you navigate your professional journey with greater ease and purpose. Whether you're an established executive or an aspiring leader, this episode offers valuable perspectives on harnessing your authentic self to create positive change in your career and beyond.Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcast/jennifer-mulholland-and-jeff-shuck.

Jul 22, 2024 • 47min
From Rural Medicine To Academia To Coaching With Dr. Sharon Hull
Ready to transform your career? In this episode, host J.R. Lowry interviews Dr. Sharon Hull, founder and chief coaching officer of Metta Solutions, and author of Professional Careers by Design. Sharon takes us on her journey from rural family medicine to academic medicine and executive coaching, sharing valuable insights along the way. Drawing from her book, she emphasizes the importance of discernment, managing change, and maintaining a lifelong perspective in career transitions. Plus, discover how “design thinking” can be applied to career development as Sharon encourages listeners to intentionally design their professional paths. Check out the full series of “Career Sessions, Career Lessons” podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/dr-sharon-hull

Jul 15, 2024 • 49min
Proximity - What It Means For The World And For Your Career, With Rob Wolcott
Our world is getting smaller in a big way. J.R. Lowry and Rob Wolcott, the Co-founder and Chair of The World Innovation Network and author of Proximity, How Coming Breakthroughs in Just-in-Time Transform Business, Society, and Daily Life, delve into the transformative concept of proximity in digital technologies. They discuss how this ability to shrink and localize capabilities will impact industries from manufacturing to healthcare, exploring both the potential benefits and downsides like environmental concerns and the need for new regulations. Join them as they envision a future where proximity reshapes business models and societal norms, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer demands.Check out the full series of “Career Sessions, Career Lessons” podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/rob-wolcott/.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/

Jul 8, 2024 • 48min
The Interconnected Future Of Technology And Humanity, With Kate O'Neill
The future of technology is rapidly changing the world of work, which made many people fear that technology will replace them. But you don’t have to be afraid because it’s not about the robots and remote work; it’s about YOU. In today’s episode, Kate O’Neill, the Author of Tech Humanist and the Founder of KO Insights, delves into how human-centric digital transformation shapes the workplace and upskills humans. Explore the ethical implications of AI Automation and how to ensure technology serves humanity. Also, hear Kate’s insights on using tech to solve the world’s biggest challenges – with a human touch. Today’s conversation is something you don’t want to miss! Join Kate O’Neill and be inspired to shape your future in a technology-driven world. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/the-interconnected-future-of-technology-and-humanity-with-kate-oneill.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/

Jul 1, 2024 • 43min
Practicing M&A Law In A Family-Friendly Fashion With Eli Albrecht
In this episode, we delve into the world of M&A law with Eli Albrecht, a partner at SMB Law Group. Host J.R. Lowry sits down with Eli to explore how he successfully balances a demanding legal career with a family-first approach. Discover Eli’s journey from serving in the Israeli Defense Forces to becoming a prominent figure in the M&A sector. Learn about the challenges he faced, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and how he integrates work and life seamlessly. Join us for an inspiring conversation about redefining success in the high-stakes field of M&A law.Check out the full series of “Career Sessions, Career Lessons” podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcast/eli-albrechtBecome a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now

Jun 24, 2024 • 43min
Mentoring, Networking, And LinkedIn With Strangers, With Andy Lopata
Most organizations do not have any idea how to get access to a mentoring program to shape their leaders, or what a good one even looks like. This leads to leaders basically going with the flow, which results in disgruntled and messy teams. J.R. Lowry chats with acclaimed professional relationship strategist Andy Lopata who explores how to create the right mentor-mentee connection. He talks about the most essential elements of a good mentoring relationship, the importance of mentors keeping their ego in check, and the unique concept of ICE CREAM. Andy also shares his insights about creating connections through LinkedIn, the several books he has written, his podcast, and the application his team developed. Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts here or visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcast/andy-lopataBecome a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/