Latest Episode | April 26, 2026

Be the Thermostat, Not the Thermometer | Protecting Your Peace With Rene Rivas

What if protecting your peace doesn’t mean staying quiet—but finally speaking up?

In this episode of Work is Third, Dawn Hunter talks with Rene Rivas, entrepreneur, nurse, and founder of RevIVe+ Mobile IV Concierge. Together, Dawn and Rene explore the power of community, how joy can be a daily choice, why adulthood may need to be reimagined, and the difference between being a thermometer who reacts to the room—or a thermostat who sets the tone.

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WELCOME TO

WORK IS THIRD

A podcast for people who are done letting work take the lead.

Hosted by Dawn Hunter, Workplace Culture Strategist and creator of the RESET Method for burnout prevention, leadership capacity development, and sustainable workplace culture, Work is Third invites you to rethink the role of work in your life and to imagine something more whole, more joyful, and more human.

We believe that work isn't the main event. It's just one part of a meaningful, well-lived life. In each episode, we sit down with leaders, creatives, and change-makers to talk honestly about boundaries, rest, play, and radical self-care—and how they’re redefining success on their own terms.

Whether you're navigating burnout, building a career with intention, or just tired of the grind, you’ll find practical wisdom, inspiration, and a few well-earned laughs here.

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Have thoughts on the latest episode? A great tip to share on how you prioritize rest, find joy, and set boundaries? Leave a message!

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Episode 1

Work is Third: The Story Behind the Podcast

Host Dawn Hunter opens up about the burnout, loss, and reflection that led her to reimagine her life - and create Work is Third. From productivity shame and grief to morning rituals and joy-filled boundaries, Dawn shares the real story behind the podcast’s name and her journey to reclaim rest and redefine success.

Listen Now
Listen Now
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Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and join a growing community of people who are putting life back in focus.

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“I believe joy is strategic. Boundaries are radical. And work should never come first.”

Joyful rebel. Culture shifter. Boundaries enthusiast.

Dawn Hunter is the voice behind Work is Third, a podcast about rethinking work, reclaiming rest, and building lives rooted in care and connection. A public health leader and lawyer turned movement-builder, Dawn brings sharp insight, deep heart, and a healthy dose of humor to every conversation. The podcast is just one piece of her work helping people and organizations lead with intention and live with more joy.

MEET DAWN

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Learn more

DONʼT SETTLE FOR THIRD PLACE. UNLESS ITʼS WORK,

THEN DEFINITELY SETTLE.

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HEAR FROM LISTENERS

HEAR FROM LISTENERS

HEAR FROM LISTENERS

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I’ve been thinking a lot about how to design a life on my own terms, so this podcast couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s the kind of conversation that makes you feel seen, and sparks the courage to actually make a change.

Motherhood broke open everything I thought I knew about work-life harmony. Listening to these stories, and hearing people name the questions I’ve been sitting with, feels like being guided back to myself.

This was awesome and such needed content right now for all us burned out folk. Looking forward to more episodes!