(6/29/2026) Look Through the Turn | Small Wins, Big Healing & the Power of Celebration With Paula Thomas What if progress didn’t have to look impressive to count? In this episode of Work Is Third, Dawn Hunter sits down with founder and storyteller Paula Thomas to explore what it means to rebuild after loss, and how small wins can change everything. After navigating crippling depression and anxiety, and later, an ADHD and autism diagnosis, building a career in tech, and then losing her husband unexpectedly, Paula was forced to redefine everything: her identity, her work, and what success really means. Along the way, she discovered that small, intentional progress is often the most powerful kind.

This conversation is for anyone who has experienced loss, burnout, identity shifts, or the quiet pressure to do more and is ready to move forward with intention. Together, Dawn and Paula discuss:

Why “success” doesn’t always look like success
What motorcycles and submarines teach us about resilience
Why grief doesn’t fit into three days of PTO
How to build workplaces that expect the unexpected
Why keeping a “win book” matters

📚 Guest Info Website: weiter-mfg.com L https://www.linkedin.com/in/paula-thomas/
📔 Resources Mentioned

SuperBetter App, https://superbetter.com/
Brag Books
“Clear is kind,” attributed to Brené Brown
Military Concepts: submarine qualification cards(cross-training for resilience); designing systems that expect failure/unexpected absence
Morning pages, from The Artist’s Way

Stay Connected with Dawn Hunter Visit The Dawn Lab.
🔔 Dawn Hunter, JD, MPH is a speaker, trainer, and culture strategist who blends law, leadership, and wellbeing to create healthier, more human-centered workplaces. Drawing on her expertise as a public health lawyer and Certified Wellness Practitioner, she helps leaders and organizations move from burnout and disconnection toward resilience, integrity, and sustainable growth.
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