Reimagine Your Life – A Conversation with Janna Kimel
Tune In:
In this episode of "To Live List," I had the privilege of speaking with Janna Kimel, a UX researcher and a fellow traveler on the journey of giving oneself permission to live authentically. This episode is part of our season-long exploration of permission—what it means to grant ourselves the freedom to pursue the lives we truly desire.
Episode Highlights
The Courage to Start Over: Janna’s story is a powerful example of what it means to give yourself permission to start over. In her thirties, she made the bold decision to leave a career in theater to return to school and enter the world of UX research. We discussed the fears and doubts that come with such a significant life change and how granting herself the permission to pursue something new opened doors she never imagined.
Permission to Embrace Boundaries: A key theme in our conversation was the idea of boundaries—not just in life, but in creativity. Janna shared how working within the constraints of UX design provided her with a sense of focus and direction that was both liberating and inspiring. This episode delves into how setting boundaries can help us channel our creativity and energy into meaningful pursuits.
Health Advocacy and Permission to Speak Up: We also talked about the critical role of health advocacy, especially in the complex landscape of today’s healthcare system. Janna’s experience with chronic migraines highlighted the importance of advocating for oneself, and I shared my own journey with recurring ear infections. We emphasized the need to give ourselves permission to question, seek second opinions, and be relentless in the pursuit of our well-being.

Permission to Be Vulnerable: Throughout our discussion, we touched on the power of vulnerability—how giving ourselves permission to be open about our struggles can foster deeper connections and support. Janna reflected on how this season of her life has been about allowing herself to be fully present, even on the tough days, and how this honesty has enriched her relationships and work.
Living with Intention: As we wrapped up, Janna shared what’s next on her to-live list: traveling to Asia, particularly Japan, a dream that has been postponed due to various life challenges. This desire reflects a broader theme of the episode—giving ourselves permission to live with intention, to prioritize experiences that bring us joy, and to pursue the things that truly matter, despite the obstacles we may face.
Listen to the Full Episode
This episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to give yourself permission to reimagine your life, set boundaries that serve you, and live authentically. Whether you’re contemplating a career change, navigating health challenges, or simply seeking to live more fully, Janna’s story offers inspiration and practical wisdom.
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Stay Tuned: Our Tune In blog series will continue to unpack the themes from each episode, offering deeper insights and actionable steps for embracing the power of permission in your own life.
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