Random pausing

This can be caused by the audio jack, if it doesn't sit tight anymore, the headphone becomes disconnected for small periods of time causing the iPod to detect the headphone as unplugged, hence it will pause. Try different headphones and make sure there's a tight fit. If that doesn't help the jack needs replacement. If you're out of warranty you can send it to any third party iPod Repair Service and they will replace the jack for you.

Hey,

Try to reset your ipod, also try a restore, both explained on this page
http://www.fixya.com/support/r561901-ipod_problems_start_5_solutions

reset at the top, and restore in the end.

Thanks,
Ekse