Career Sessions, Career Lessons
JR Lowry, PathWise.io
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Apr 21, 2025 • 39min
Fighting For Parental Leave Rights, With Glen Wood
Author Of Too Big To Care: Adopt Sustainable Business Practices Or Embrace DefeatIn the ongoing fight for parental rights in the workplace, Glen Wood's story stands as a powerful testament to the challenges and triumphs of advocating for work-life balance. In this episode, J.R. Lowry interviews Glen Wood, a Canadian national who spent three decades in Japan and worked as an equity sales manager at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities. Glen shares his deeply personal journey of fighting for paternity leave after the birth of his son, the subsequent workplace harassment he allegedly faced, and the legal battle that ensued. Beyond his own experiences, Glen delves into the broader issues of corporate sustainability, the importance of valuing employees as people, and how prioritizing family can ultimately lead to a more successful and profitable company. This episode offers valuable insights into navigating parental leave policies, challenging workplace norms, and understanding the crucial connection between employee well-being and long-term business success.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/glen-wood.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Apr 15, 2025 • 40min
Being A Generous Leader, With Joe Davis
For Joe Davis, a generous leader is someone who selflessly helps others experience profound growth and unleash their fullest potential. They do not prioritize their personal agendas but are dedicated to elevating those around them. In this conversation with J.R. Lowry, the award-winning author and speaker shares what it means to bring generosity to leadership, which results in better communication, inclusivity, authenticity, and collaboration within a team. Joe also emphasizes the importance of providing consistent feedback, both positive and constructive, to further guide others in achieving their personal successes.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/joe-davis.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Mar 31, 2025 • 43min
Mastering The Art Of Asking Questions With Dave Reynolds
What if the secret to unstoppable leadership lies in mastering the art of questions? In this episode of Career Sessions, Career Lessons, host JR Lowry sits down with Dave Reynolds, serial entrepreneur, founder of The Rumin8 Group, and author of Radicle Growth: Transform into an Unstoppable Leader Through Mastering the Art of Questions. Dave shares how asking the right questions—rather than giving answers—empowers individuals, strengthens organizations, and drives sustainable growth. From transforming team performance through strategic coaching to navigating the growing demand for fractional leadership, Dave reveals how leaders can cultivate self-awareness, foster accountability, and prepare for the opportunities of tomorrow.If you’re ready to rethink leadership, embrace the power of inquiry, and discover what it truly takes to build a resilient, thriving organization, this conversation is for you. Tune in now and start asking the questions that will shape your future.Check out the full series of "Career Sessions, Career Lessons" podcasts. Visit pathwise.io/podcast/. A full written transcript of this episode is also available at https://pathwise.io/podcasts/dave-reynolds/.
Mar 20, 2025 • 44min
Paying It Forward To Aspiring Women Leaders, With Tracey Newell
Board Member, Former C-Level Executive, And Author Of Hers For The Taking Confidence, leadership, and bold decision-making—these are the keys to success, but many aspiring women leaders hesitate to take the next step. Tracey Newell knows this struggle firsthand and has dedicated her career to breaking barriers for women in business. In this conversation with J.R. Lowry, she shares her journey from sales to the boardroom, the power of sponsorship, and why women should give themselves permission to lead. They discuss insights from her new book, Hers for the Taking: Your Path to the C-Suite & Beyond, and the lessons she’s learned about career growth, work-life balance, and making an impact. If you’re ready to take charge of your career and reach new heights, this episode is for you.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/tracey-newell/.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Mar 3, 2025 • 51min
Own Your Career, Own Your Life, With Andy Storch
Don't just have a job, OWN your career! Andy Storch, author of Own Your Career Own Your Life, joins J.R. Lowry to share expert advice on personal branding, networking, and continuous learning to achieve career success. Andy discusses the importance of self-reflection, setting a vision for your future, and proactively taking steps to reach your goals. He also provides practical tips on leveraging LinkedIn for networking and building a strong personal brand. Dive into self-reflection, set your vision, and learn how to truly own your professional journey! 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/andy-storch/.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Feb 24, 2025 • 39min
A Rebel With A Cause (and a Community), with Greg Larkin
Rebels don’t just break the rules—they redefine them. Greg Larkin, founder of Punks & Pinstripes and author of This Might Get Me Fired: A Manual for Thriving in the Corporate Entrepreneurial Underground, joins J.R. Lowry to explore what it means to be a rebel with a cause in the corporate world. They dive into why true innovators struggle inside big companies, how disruption often leads to transformation, and why some of the most game-changing ideas come from those who refuse to conform. Greg shares his journey from Wall Street to building a movement that empowers leaders to challenge the status quo. Ready to embrace your inner corporate rebel?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/greg-larkin/.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Feb 17, 2025 • 46min
Giving Up The Law And Taking A Bold New Career Direction, With Cynthia Pong
Leaving a stable career to explore a new career direction can be daunting. But sometimes, taking the leap is exactly what you need to thrive. J.R. Lowry chats with Cynthia Pong, founder and CEO of Embrace Change, to discuss her bold transition from a public defender to an executive coach and author. They explore the challenges of career shifts, the benefits of taking a sabbatical, how to overcome burnout, and finding purpose in new opportunities. Cynthia also shares insights from her book, Don't Stay in Your Lane, offering practical advice for professionals ready to take control of their own paths. If you're feeling stuck or seeking profound change, this conversation is packed with inspiration and actionable steps. 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/cynthia-pong.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Feb 10, 2025 • 45min
How Improv Can Help Build Stronger Teams and a Stronger You, with Joel Zeff
Great teams don’t just happen—they’re built with intention, energy, and a little improvisation. J.R. Lowry sits down with Joel Zeff to talk about how improv techniques can fuel collaboration, innovation, and engagement in the workplace. From embracing the ta-da moments to making the right choices, Joel shares how humor and spontaneity can help create stronger teams that thrive under change and disruption. Whether you're a leader, team member, or just looking to bring more fun into your work life, this episode will challenge how you think about success, culture, and communication.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/joel-zeff.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Feb 3, 2025 • 46min
Communicating For Impact And Lasting Change, With Tamsen Webster
Clear and impactful communication is a skill that shapes careers and transforms organizations. J.R. Lowry welcomes Tamsen Webster, a messaging designer and author, who shares her insights on communicating for impact. Together, they discuss how mastering communication can help leaders inspire change, build trust, and create lasting connections. Drawing from her varied career and best-selling books, Tamsen highlights practical strategies for crafting deeply resonating messages that truly matter to the chosen audience. Whether you are leading your own team, pitching an idea, or navigating a crucial change, this episode will equip you with the right tools to make every word count.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/tamsen-webster/.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
Jan 27, 2025 • 46min
Success as a Digital Entrepreneur, with Tim Fung
Building a successful online platform takes vision, persistence, and the ability to easily adapt to a constantly evolving digital landscape. J.R. Lowry speaks with Tim Fung, founder and CEO of Airtasker, who shares all about his journey as a digital entrepreneur. Tim shares the origins of his outsourcing company which connects people with unique skills to those who need them. He talks about the challenges of scaling a startup across multiple countries, the importance of having a community, and the value of creating opportunities in the gig economy. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or a curious digital explorer, this episode will teach you how to navigate the path of entrepreneurship.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/success-as-a-digital-entrepreneur-with-tim-fung.Become a PathWise member today! Join at https://pathwise.io/join-now/
