Turning 40 and Leaning into the Concept of Failure

Author: Stephanie McLaughlin
Published: Wed 09 Aug 2023
Episode Link: https://fortydrinks.com/episodes/turning-40-and-leaning-into-the-concept-of-failure

Paul Padmore was made redundant from his position at a startup in London in his early 40s, which led to feelings of embarrassment, shame and failure that he harbored for a long time. Ultimately, he realized that the important part was “to be in the arena” and able to learn and grow. He said, “ If we don't try and if we don't experience these moments, then growth is negligible.” Paul pondered failure for more than a year before he ginned up the confidence to launch the My Perfect Failure podcast where he has conversations with people about failure, what it means to them and how they deal with it.

Guest Bio

Paul Padmore is a renowned social well-being enthusiast, best known for hosting the podcast, ‘My Perfect Failure’. Focusing on the principle that failure is never permanent, Paul aims to educate his audience about the benefits a positive mindset can have for both your career and personal life.

Turning 40 and Leaning into the Concept of Failure

Paul Padmore joins us to discuss the profound lessons he's learned from failure. From being made redundant to finding resilience and growth in unexpected places, Paul's journey is a testament to the power of embracing setbacks. His insights into failure, success, and personal development are not only enlightening but also deeply relatable. Tune in to hear Paul's unique perspective on how failure can be a treasure trove of opportunity.

Episode Highlights:

Redundancy and Personal Growth: Paul's experience of being made redundant from a startup, the feelings of failure, and the personal growth that emerged from it.
The Concept of Failure: A deep dive into how failure is perceived, the stigma around it, and how it can be seen as a gain rather than a gap.
Imposter Syndrome and Starting a Podcast: Paul's journey of starting a podcast on failure, battling imposter syndrome, and finding joy in connecting with others.
Insights from Failures: How failures can be seen as opportunities for learning, personal and professional development, and the importance of being in the arena.
Stephanie's Experience with Redundancy: Stephanie shares her own experiences with being made redundant and the lessons learned from those situations.

Thank you for joining us on this enlightening conversation about failure, growth, and resilience. Paul's insights remind us that setbacks are not the end but rather a beginning to new opportunities and personal development.

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