Work Recovery Journal

Welcome to The WR Journal — your curated destination for insights, special features, and podcast conversations designed for the midlife woman navigating the intersection of career, money, and joy.

Whether you're quietly questioning what success actually costs you, rebuilding after burnout, or simply ready to stop waiting for permission to live differently, you've found your people. We explore the work you do, the wealth you build, and the wellbeing you deserve — without asking you to blow up the life you've worked so hard to create.

WORK

WEALTH

WELLBEING

WORK ⁘ WEALTH ⁘ WELLBEING ⁘


Bree J Bree J

Did the pandemic mess up the way we work?

As leaders and teams across organizations yearn to return to a pre-pandemic normal, Bree delves into why this "normal" may no longer serve us. The pandemic not only changed where we work but heightened our need for a reassessment of what work means. Bree explores the "pandemic hangover," a term she uses to describe the residual impacts on our work setups and the societal mishandling of major historical learnings.

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Bree J Bree J

Embracing Career Reinvention

Laura Berman Fortgang shares her journey from aspiring Broadway actress to renowned life coach. Her story is one of resilience, reinvention, and finding purpose—a testament to the power of embracing the unknown and stepping into new possibilities. Laura defines the "untamed mind" as the part of us that often veers towards negativity. Taming these thoughts involves cultivating self-discipline and not believing everything our inner critic tells us. It’s about moving from self-doubt and comparison to self-awareness and empowerment.

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Bree J Bree J

How leaders can own their story with alex street

On the Untamed Mind podcast, we explore the pivotal role storytelling plays in clarifying our personal missions and organizational goals. Together we unpack the conversation between our host, Bree Johnson, and guest expert, Alex Street—an aficionado in storytelling and brand communication.

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Bree J Bree J

Gifting love of local services

This holiday season, we also want to shine a light on the incredible local service providers who enrich our lives and communities. From personal care to real estate, photography, and home services, these professionals deliver the expertise and care that make life more beautiful, convenient, and memorable.

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Bree J Bree J

Gifting learning & growth

This holiday season, consider giving a gift that doesn’t just fill a moment but creates a lasting impact. Courses, coaching, and communities are gifts of growth—empowering individuals to unlock their potential, achieve their goals, and connect with like-minded people. Whether you’re shopping for an entrepreneur, a creative, or someone seeking personal transformation, these offerings deliver unmatched value.

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Bree J Bree J

Gifting books for all

Books are a timeless gift—offering wisdom, escape, and inspiration all in one. Whether you’re shopping for someone’s personal growth journey, fueling their entrepreneurial spirit, or simply giving the gift of a good story, the right book can make an unforgettable impact. Here’s a thoughtfully curated list of books to enhance wellbeing, spark creativity, and provide joy this holiday season.

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Bree J Bree J

Gifting wellness this season

The holiday season is a perfect time to reflect on the importance of wellbeing—for yourself and your loved ones. In a world that's constantly on the go, giving gifts that create moments of connection, self-care, and healing can be a profound way to show your love. This year, consider wellbeing-focused gifts and services from small businesses that provide the tools and experiences to support a healthier, more balanced life.

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Bree J Bree J

gifting All the beautiful things

This holiday season, your gift-giving choices can create a ripple of impact far beyond the wrapping paper. By supporting small businesses, you’re investing in dreams, creativity, and community. Each purchase helps makers and entrepreneurs thrive, creating a cycle of generosity that touches lives in meaningful ways.

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Bree J Bree J

What Does DEIB do for me?

DEIB expert Desiree Goldey explores the complexities of leading in today’s diverse workplaces. Together, they tackle essential topics around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB), with an emphasis on women in leadership, the impacts of corporate socialization, and the work wounds that can hold teams back.

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Bree J Bree J

how good can it get?

Many of us, regardless of age, experience moments of overthinking and dwelling on all the ways things could go wrong. This mindset is often driven by an inner voice—what you might call your "younger self"—that gets stuck in a loop of worry and fear. It’s easy to underestimate the influence of this younger self, but it often plays a role in how we respond to daily stressors and big challenges alike.

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Bree J Bree J

Unveiling the Power of Journaling

Journaling is more than just penning down thoughts. It's a journey back to yourself, a way to untangle the web of emotions swirling within and lay them out in front of you. As we navigate through life's complexities, journaling becomes a tool for managing anxiety, reducing stress, and even coping with depression. Whether you prefer prompts, free-form writing, or jotting down gratitude lists, the journal is a personal sanctuary where your inner voice finds its freedom.

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Bree J Bree J

Building confidence for your inner leader

Bree and Jess embark on a heartfelt dialogue exploring the concept of the "Untamed Mind" and its pivotal role in personal and professional growth. Jess shares insights drawn from her diverse experience working with entrepreneurs and salon clients. She explains how tapping into one's inner authority—acknowledging personal achievements and understanding their value—can dismantle barriers to self-confidence.

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Bree J Bree J

How unacknowledged Work Wounds linger in your org

Bree Johnson, a prominent conscious leadership expert and co-founder of Executive Unschool, has been featured in Forbes for her innovative approach to leadership and workplace wellbeing. The article, titled "4 Ways to Prevent Employee Work Wounds from Contaminating Work Culture in 2024," explores strategies to create healthier, more resilient work environments, a mission at the heart of Executive Unschool.

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Bree J Bree J

to whom do you owe your silence?

Secrets in the workplace can manifest in various forms—be it concealed misconduct, microaggressions, or unreported ethical breaches. The emotional toll on individuals who harbor these secrets can be immense, causing stress and a sense of isolation.

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Bree J Bree J

Bree JOhnson to deliver keynote at Intentional leader summit

Conscious leadership is a transformative approach to leadership that focuses on self-awareness, authenticity, and the well-being of both leaders and their teams. Find CEO & founder Bree Johnson on the Intentional Leader Summit stage August 7, in Marshall, MN, sharing a conscious leadership keynote and workshop.

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Bree J Bree J

Preventing Burnout in the Workplace

One of the leading causes of burnout is feeling undervalued and unrecognized. Creating a culture where employees feel appreciated for their contributions is important to engagement and retention efforts. Regularly acknowledging achievements, both big and small, can significantly boost morale and motivation. Simple gestures of appreciation, such as verbal praise or a written note, can go a long way in making employees feel valued.

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Bree J Bree J

The Power of Employee Wellbeing

Companies are increasingly recognizing the critical importance of employee wellbeing on business growth and sustainability. Gallup's comprehensive study on work wellbeing shed light on a significant truth: there is a direct correlation between employee wellbeing and business outcomes. This revelation is not just a fleeting trend but a foundational principle that can drive sustainable success for organizations.

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