Working Towards Our Purpose

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1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Stop Being So Hard on Yourself and Quiet Your Inner Critic | E88

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Why is the self always the harshest critic? In this episode, we talk about how to stop being so hard on yourself and how you can quiet your inner critic, something that holds so many of us back from real personal growth. I share my own experience navigating self-criticism, why the myth of harsh self-judgment doesn’t lead to success, and finding the roots of your inner critic. If you’re ready to shift from self-criticism to self-compassion and finally stop holding yourself back from your true potential, this episode is for you.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Check-In

01:02 – Why Talk About Being Hard on Yourself

01:56 – Getting Stuck in Self-Criticism

02:59 – The Cycle of Negative Self-Talk

03:57 – Rethinking Success & Self-Criticism

05:16 – Self-Criticism in Three Stages

07:14 – Perfectionism

10:22 – Changing the Script

11:31 – Inner Child Work

15:50 – Softening Your Inner Critic

17:13 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Understanding how to stop being so hard on yourself
How to recognize self-critical patterns
The myth that success comes from being harsh on yourself
Three-stage process for breaking free from your inner critic: confusion, awareness, and practice
How perfectionism fuels negative self-talk
The connection between your current inner critic and your childhood
The importance of self-compassion
Free "Softening Your Inner Critic" guide

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Stop Ignoring Your Needs and Give Yourself Permission to Pursue the Career You Actually Want | E87

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Have you been ignoring something you've been thinking about for a while? In today's episode, we discuss how to stop ignoring your needs and how to start giving yourself the permission to do the things you desire. After a bout with the flu, I had a lot of time to think about my own life, and thought about some things I've been wanting to do for a while but haven't. I reveal two key questions that helped me shift from making excuses, to taking action. Tune in to find out how you can stop ignoring your needs and start pursuing your passions. No matter if it's something big like a career change, or something small.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 - Check In
01:00 - What I Realized After The Flu
02:29 - Reconnecting with Old Desires
04:01 - The Power of Joy
05:30 - Two Powerful Questions to Ask Yourself
07:36 - What do you Truly want?
09:25 - Overcoming Excuses
10:44 - Giving Yourself The Permission
12:18 - Moving Into Action
13:06 - Closing

💡Key Takeaways
In this episode you'll learn:

How to stop ignoring your needs
Finding a more fulfilling and authentic life
Giving yourself the permission
Important self-reflection questions
Overcoming excuses
Letting fun drive you
How to move into action

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Is It Too Late to Find Your Purpose? 2 Actions to Uncover the Gifts You’ve Ignored | E86

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Did you watch the Olympic athletes and wonder, what am I doing with my life? What's my purpose? In this week's episode, we discuss the question, is it too late to find your purpose? I share practical steps to help you identify your unique gifts and talents when you feel like you don't have any. We also explore the emotional challenges of comparison and self-criticism and I offer two practical actions you can implement to find your hidden gifts and talents. If you're searching for meaning in your work, or thinking about making a career change, this episode can guide you on your path.

CliftonStrengths Test

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 - Check In

01:11 - Is It Too Late to Find Your Purpose?

01:27 - The Olympics & Comparison

02:43 - Questioning Your Own Path

03:30 - The Impact of Comparison

04:29 - Feelings of Inadequacy

05:34 - Recognizing Hidden Gifts

06:34 - The Blind Spot of Your Strengths

07:32 - Discovering a Hidden Talent

09:12 - Aligning Work & Purpose

10:14 - Choosing Your Path

11:13 - The Trap of Fixating on Weaknesses

13:13 - Two Steps to Find Your Gifts

15:28 - CliftonStrengths Test Explained

17:50 - Key Takeaways

18:39 - Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Feeling like it's too late to find your purpose
Comparison to Olympic athletes
Self-criticism and feelings of inadequacy.
Finding your unique gifts
How to find your natural strengths and talents
What is CliftonStrengths and how it can help find your talents
Aligning your work and life with your gifts
Focusing on strengths, rather than weaknesses
Finding meaningful work is for everyone

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

WTOP Merch

Feeling Like You're Just Going Through the Motions: The Psychology of Dissociation at Work | E85

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Ever feel like you're just going through the motions at work? Time is just going by and you're standing still? In this episode, I share my honest experience with how to stop going through the motions at work and the emotional impact of feeling disconnected. You'll hear my real stories about overcoming disassociation, reclaiming a sense of authenticity, and taking small steps toward feeling more present and purposeful in your work. If you're tired of numbing out and feeling stuck in your job, this episode gives practical insight on how to reignite your sense of purpose and find joy, even in small moments.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Check in
01:39 – Going Through the Motions at Work
03:14 – A Moment That Changed My Perspective
05:45 – Why Do We Numb Ourselves at Work?
08:05 – Disassociation in Action
09:35 – The Corporate Environment and Its Challenges
12:10 – Steps to Feel Present and Take Ownership
13:35 – How Small Actions Create Big Change
16:33 – Five Minutes of Authenticity
17:02 – Free Resource

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Uncovering that going through the motions feeling
Acknowledging why this happens
The cost of environments that demand inauthenticity
Disassociation at work
Replacing numbing habits with small, authentic actions
Reclaiming your purpose at work
One thing you can do to take ownership of your time
How to stop the feeling of just going through the motions

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Why You Never Feel Ready to Leave The Life You've Outgrown | E84

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Want to make a change but feel like you're not ready? In this episode, I dive into the question: How do you know if you’re ready to leave the life you’ve outgrown? The short answer is, you'll likely never "feel ready", but it doesn't mean you should let that hold you back. I break down the difference between feeling unsafe or just uncomfortable. If you’re reaching outside your comfort zone, this episode will encourage you this feeling of "not ready" is normal and you don't have to let it hold you back. You are capable of more than you think.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

Support my friend Events By Carrie

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Check-In
01:10 – Why You Never Feel Ready to Change
02:24 – My Experiences
03:46 – Why We Feel Uncomfortable
05:19 – Being Outside Your Comfort Zone
06:14 – What I’ve Learned from Taking Leaps
08:04 – The Power of Support
09:32 – You Don't Have To Plan It All Out
10:38 – Looking for Signs You’re Ready
11:48 – How to Tell If You’re Ready (Unsafe vs Uncomfortable)
16:18 – How I Made My Transitions
21:32 – Final Takeaways
24:37 – Free Guide

💡Key Takeaways
In this episode you'll learn:

Most people never feel ready enough
Discomfort is a sign of growth
Knowing if you’re ready means separating unsafe from uncomfortable
Support will often come from unexpected places
Planning is helpful, but you’ll never have every answer
You’re more capable than you think
Pushing through imposter syndrome
New challenges get easier the more you take action
Trust your drive
Your capability and support network are bigger than you think

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Overcome the Fear of Starting Over After Leaving Corporate America | E83

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Leaving Corporate America is often sold as a glamorous leap into freedom, but the reality is much messier. For many high-achievers, the biggest obstacle isn't the financial plan, it's the paralyzing fear of starting over and the identity crisis that comes with being a "beginner" again. After years of performing a version of success that didn't fit, stepping into the unknown feels like a threat to our safety. In this episode we dive into the psychological shift required to trade professional perfectionism for true purpose. If you’ve been feeling lost or stuck in the "9-5 nonsense," you’ll learn why doing hard things is the only way to heal the corporate mindset and rebuild self-trust. We discuss the "Competence Trap" that keeps us in soul-crushing roles and how to be kinder to yourself when you're navigating the void of a career transition. It’s time to stop pretending you have it all figured out and start being brave enough to be a beginner again.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Check-In
00:53 – The Fear of Starting Over
02:02 – Getting Uncomfortable and Personal Growth
03:03 – The Competence Trap
05:48 – Control, Fear, and Stagnation
06:25 – Growth Through Difficult Things
07:57 – Escaping the Corporate Mindset
09:49 – Finding Support and Community
10:21 – Handling Criticism and Focusing on Support
11:58 – Feeling Behind
13:13 – Practicing Self-Kindness
14:27 – Do the Hard Thing
16:31 – Free Inner Critic Resource
17:13 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Overcoming the fear of starting over
Comfort keeps you stuck
Embracing discomfort
Worrying about looking "cringe"
Supportive communities
Taking small, intentional steps
Moving through fear and anxiety
Focusing less your supporters, not critics
Practicing self-kindness when starting something new
Overcoming the fear of starting
Finding your authentic path

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Want to Leave Your Job but Feel Lost? 3 Strategies to Find Your Authentic Path | E82

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Ready to move on from your corporate job but have no idea where to go? I know how you feel because that was me 5 years ago. In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I address this feeling of knowing you want to leave, but not having any idea of where to go. I share what it was like for me and what I learned from the process. If you’re stuck, not knowing what to do post corporate life, I offer three practical strategies to help you figure out your own path.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Check In
01:13 – Why We Feel Lost
03:25 – Realizing You Want to leave corporate
04:12 – Others Influence & Following the “Rules”
05:12 – Social Pressures
06:37 – Giving Yourself the Gift of Time
07:24 – Believing Change Is Possible
08:19 – The Real Fear: Money vs. The Unknown
12:21 – My Story of leaving corporate
16:46 – 3 Strategies to Find Your Own Path
18:19 – How to Know What You Want
19:28 – Why Support & Community Matter
22:19 – Taking Small but Powerful Actions
25:38 – Patience & Kindness

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to leave a corporate job
How to find your own path
How to find out what you want post corporate life
Giving yourself the gift of time
Fear around money
Finding what energizes you
Building support networks and finding community
Taking a small step forward and finding momentum
Facing the unknown is scary
Patience and self-kindness

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How To Focus With ADHD: The One Thing You Can Do Right Now To Reclaim Mental Clarity | E81

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 26 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Struggling to focus with ADHD? In this episode, I talk about one method you can use to focus with ADHD to regain mental clarity and productivity. If you’re overwhelmed by constant thoughts and struggling to finish tasks, I break down my personal experience and share practical ADHD focusing tips. Learn how identifying with ADHD and using a simple brain dumping method can transform your daily routine and help you work with, not against, your mind.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Check-In
00:59 – Struggling to Focus
02:02 – Growing Up with ADHD Stigma
03:15 – Recognizing ADHD in Adulthood
04:12 – How ADHD Feels
05:01 – Trevor Noah’s Analogy
06:08 – Types of ADHD Explained
06:42 – Childhood ADHD vs. Adult ADHD
08:39 – Internal Restlessness
09:26 – The One Thing That Helps
11:08 – How to Brain Dump
12:10 – The Power of Identifying with ADHD
13:26 – Mental Health Stigma and ADHD Positives
15:25 – Closing

💡Key Takeaways

Understanding how to focus with ADHD
Internal restlessness and thoughts
How ADHD can feel
Identifying as someone with ADHD
Reduce stigma and unlock more effective coping strategies
Using a brain dumping method
ADHD-related creativity as a strength
Learn to work with it, not against it
One thing to reduce mental restlessness so that you can focus

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

The Truth About Leaving Corporate: 4 Reasons Your Career is Holding Back Your Authentic Life | E80

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Ever wonder what really happens when you walk away from your corporate career, and what you stand to gain if you take the leap? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I share my honest reflections on life 5 years after leaving my corporate job and what it's really like outside of the corporate grind. You’ll hear about overcoming the fear of letting go, rediscovering creativity, and finding what it means to truly value your time. For anyone searching for their purpose beyond the 9 to 5, whether you're considering quitting your corporate job or just curious about what happens on the other side. This episode explores the truth about leaving corporate life and what it means to embrace your authentic self. Tune in to learn about the benefits, challenges, and possibilities that come with making a major career pivot.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Check-In
00:55 – The Truth About Leaving Corporate
01:34 – My Corporate Experience
02:22 – Intentions
04:09 – Hard Realities of Leaving Corporate
08:17 – Four Ways Corporate Holds You Back
10:07 – Power Dynamics & Speaking Up
14:35 – Mental Health in Corporate Settings
15:13 – Living in Fear & Closed Mindedness
20:00 – Creativity: Lost and Found
22:41 – Value of Time & Corporate Grind
26:31 – Flexibility & Freedom After Corporate
27:09 – Recap: Four Key Reasons to Leave
28:52 – Advice for Those Considering Leaving
31:36 – Closing

💡Key Takeaways

What it's like 5 years after leaving a corporate job
The hardest part of quitting a steady 9 to 5
The struggles of not having a corporate job
What you'll gain by leaving the corporate grind
Prioritizing your mental health and time
Becoming your authentic self

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Stop Feeling Overwhelmed When You Don't Have It All Figured Out | E79

Pleasant Podcasts — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Do you ever felt lost because you don’t have everything figured out? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I talk about the feeling of being overwhelmed when you don't have it all figured out. I share my personal struggles with imposter syndrome and the pressure to have everything planned, especially with my podcast journey. If you're battling overwhelm at the start of this new year you'll find real, actionable mindset tips that helped me work through my overwhelm.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Check-In
00:54 – Feeling Overwhelmed with Not Having It All Figured Out
01:50 – Entrepreneur vs. Creative Mindset
03:33 – Pressure to Have All the Answers
04:05 – Imposter Syndrome
05:13 – Three Steps to Stop Feeling Overwhelmed
07:10 – The Power of Letting Go
08:12 – Remembering Your Why
10:15 – Sustainable Workflow & Authenticity
11:43 – The Songwriting Analogy: Letting Ideas Marinate
13:13 – Evaluating Other Areas of Life
15:48 – Redirecting Your Energy
18:56 – Gratitude & Final Reflections

💡Key Takeaways

3 steps to stop overwhelm
Pressure to have it all figured out
Knowing when to let things marinate
Entrepreneur vs. creative mindsets

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Stop Getting in Your Own Way in 2026: Overcoming Self-Sabotage | E78

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Are you ready to finally stop getting in your own way and create lasting change in 2026? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I discuss how to overcome self-sabotage and stop letting your inner critic keep you from reaching your goals, especially as we head into 2026. With the new year approaching, we talk about setting New Year’s resolutions, breaking out of your comfort zone, and embracing self-compassion as the key to personal growth. I share my personal experience building the “Softening Your Inner Critic in Seven Days” guide - a free resource to help you be kinder to yourself and unlock your full potential. Tune in for practical strategies, inspiring stories, and tips on self-improvement, goal setting, and cultivating a positive mindset.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome & Check-In
01:07 – Reflections on New Beginnings and New Year’s Resolutions
02:41 – Why We Often Fail at Resolutions: The Role of the Inner Critic
04:37 – Introduction to the “Softening Your Inner Critic in Seven Days” Guide
05:22 – How Self-Criticism Limits Our Potential
06:17 – Turning Down the Volume on Your Inner Critic
07:34 – Realizing the Power of Self-Compassion
08:34 – Becoming Your Own Cheerleader vs. Your Own Critic
10:00 – Self-Belief and Reaching for Big Goals
10:55 – How to Access the Free Guide
11:24 – 2025 Podcast Recap
13:24 – Podcast Wrapped: Top Episodes
14:30 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Practical strategies to overcome your inner critic and self sabotage
Discover how self compassion can empower you to reach your goals
Understand the importance of self belief
How to download your free guide to soften your own inner critic

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Have Your Most Authentic Holiday: Overcoming External Expectations for Purposeful Living | E77

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Struggling with self-acceptance during the holidays? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I open up about the real challenges of some of us face around the holidays. I share actionable steps for finding authenticity, gratitude, and compassion during this season that can be stressful . Whether you're coping with holiday anxiety or navigating difficult family dynamics, this conversation offers mindset shifts to help you embrace who you are, past and present. Tune in for practical self-authenticity tips, mental health strategies, and ways to nurture your personal growth in the midst of festive pressure. Join me as we explore how to make this holiday season a kinder, more purposeful one.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Check-In
00:47 – Overcoming Holiday Spirals
02:15 – Self-Acceptance Around the Holidays
03:39 – Family Expectations & Old Versions of Ourselves
06:31 – Accepting Past Versions of Ourselves
08:54 – Focus on What Excites You
13:06 – Find Gratitude During Holidays
14:36 – Navigating Holiday Pressure
15:55 – Extra Compassion for Yourself
17:07 – Podcast Updates & Upcoming Break
18:47 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to practice self authenticity during the holidays
Understanding the importance of accepting old and current versions of yourself
Exploring tips for focusing on what's positive
Focusing on gratitude and self compassion

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Living More Authentically: The Power of Human Connection and Community | E76

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Discover how building genuine community can transform your personal growth, inspire you, and hold you accountable to your purpose. In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I wanted to talk about the importance of finding and fostering community, sharing my own experience navigating phases of loneliness, connection, and growth. We'll explore what community really means, beyond having friends, and how supportive, like-minded environments can supercharge personal and professional development. I also give actionable tips for introverts on how to find in-person communities. If you're looking to boost your sense of belonging and surround yourself with inspiring people, this episode on building authentic connection is for you.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome & Check-in
01:03 – What is Community? Defining the Difference from Friendship
04:12 – Why Community is Important for Growth & Inspiration
06:32 – My Experiences with Community
10:19 – Finding New Community Spaces: Open Mics & Farmers Markets
13:18 – Three Ways to Find Community
17:12 – Online vs. In-Person Community: The Human Connection
18:48 – Modern Challenges & Reclaiming Community in Daily Life
19:41 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

The difference between friendship and community
Understanding why community allows you to feel seen and heard while giving you greater sense of purpose
Get actionable steps to find community of your own, in real life
The difference between in person and online communities
Discover insights on the lasting value of real world human connection

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Prevent Burnout by Slowing Down and Embracing the Pace of the Season | E75

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Ever feel overwhelmed by year-end pressures? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive into the benefits of embracing a slower pace as the days get shorter and the holiday season is upon us. From personal reflections on pushing through vulnerability to actionable advice on aligning your energy with the seasons, I share how giving yourself permission to slow down can actually boost creativity and well-being. Discover strategies for handling year-end stress, adjusting goals, and practicing self-care. Tune in for authentic insights on how slowing down this winter can be your best move for personal growth and mental wellbeing!

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome & Checking In
01:26 – Vulnerability & Growth: Recording Vocals in Front of Others
02:56 – Why Slowing Down Matters, Especially Now
04:54 – Lessons from Farmers: Following the Rhythm of the Seasons
06:36 – Managing Projects & Adjusting Expectations for Year-End
08:33 – Permission to Slow Down: Letting Go of Unrealistic Deadlines
09:10 – Self-Care & Being Gentle with Yourself During the Holidays
10:29 – Reflecting on the Year & Planning for a Break
11:15 – Final thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Lessons from farmers who tend the land
Embracing the slower pace of the season
How to give yourself the permission to slow down
How to reflect on your year
How to slow down and be kind to yourself

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Rethinking Motivation: Moving Beyond Hustle Culture to Find What Actually Matters | E74

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What if laziness isn’t a flaw, but just a sign you haven’t found what truly motivates you? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I talk about the truth behind laziness and challenge the notion that it's an inherent personality trait. Sharing personal experiences and fresh perspectives, I explore how being called "lazy" often comes down to lack of passion or alignment with your values, not a lack of work ethic. If you struggle with motivation at work or in life, this episode uncovers the real reasons you might feel unmotivated and how to reframe your mindset. Tune in to discover actionable steps to find purpose and interest in what you do, overcoming any laziness label you may have been given.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome & Check-In
01:11 – Introduction to Laziness
02:41 – Perceptions vs. Reality: What Does “Lazy” Really Mean?
03:43 – Why Laziness Isn’t a Personal Trait
05:08 – Reframing Laziness Through Interests and Passion
06:34 – Finding Alignment: Why “Lazy” Is About Misalignment, Not A Flaw
07:32 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to breakdown the idea of laziness
Lazy is often a label given to you
Finding your own interests and values melt away laziness
Motivation comes from meaningful work
Overcoming laziness starts with finding your interests

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Rewire Your Brain for Success: 5 Gratitude Steps for Mindset Alignment | E73

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Discover the simple daily practices that can truly transform your mindset and bring more gratitude, and happiness, into your life right now. In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I share the power of gratitude and practical ways to weave it into your everyday routine, especially as we enter the Thanksgiving season. I break down how gratitude impacts your mental well-being, why it’s often overlooked in our busy lives, and easy steps you can use to practice gratitude daily. You'll learn about the science behind negative bias, how to shift your mindset, and real-life examples of finding gratitude even during challenging times. Tune in for actionable gratitude tips and inspiration to boost your happiness and live with more purpose.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro & Check-In
01:11 - Why Discuss Gratitude Now
01:48 - Defining Gratitude & Delayed Gratification
03:01 - Gratitude vs. Negativity
04:35 - The Science Behind Negative Bias
05:20 - Handling Jealousy Through Gratitude
06:10 - Living Vicariously and Finding Joy
07:00 - Perception and Happiness (Einstein Quote)
08:47 - How Gratitude Shifts Perspective
09:26 - Five Steps for Practicing Gratitude
11:21 - Filling a Page with Gratitude
11:49 - The Power of Going for Walks
13:12 - Gratitude as a Nightly Practice
14:09 - Giving Thanks Before Meals
15:41 - Practicing Gratitude in the Present
17:17 - Everyday Things to Be Grateful For
17:55 - Bringing Gratitude into Daily Life
18:28 - Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to find more gratitude
The definition of gratitude and why it's essential for mental well being
Explore practice ways to find the positives around you
Finding gratitude beyond thanksgiving season

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Stop Feeling Like You're Running Out of Time and Reduce Your Sense of Overwhelm | E72

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Ever feel like you’re racing against the clock and constantly running out of time? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, we discuss the overwhelming feeling of running out of time and share practical mindset strategies to overcome it. From managing daily schedules to realizing it’s never too late to start something new, I unpack techniques for reframing your relationship with time. Drawing from my own experiences, including milestones and setbacks, I offer actionable tips and to empower you to not be held back by the concept of running out of time. If you’re seeking time management tips, mindset shifts, or ways to get more done, this episode will help you reclaim your time and focus.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction & Check-In
01:08 – Hitting Milestones & Growth Reflections
01:44 – Feeling of Running Out of Time
02:28 – Personal Stories of Time Pressure
04:19 – It’s All About Mindset with Time
05:42 – How “Running Out of Time” Wastes More Time
06:43 – Missing Out Because You Think You’re Too Late
08:32 – Two Types of “Running Out of Time” Explained
08:50 – Mindfulness as a Time Management Strategy
12:38 – Patience: The Underrated Time Management Tool
18:10 – “Einstein Time” and Reframing Your Mindset
20:29 – You’re Never Too Old to Start Something New
20:53 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to overcome the anxiety of running out of time
How to discover mindfulness and boost productivity
How to shift your perception of time to reclaim your schedule
Actionable tips to reduce overwhelm

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Break Free From Depression: A Self-Compassion Strategy | E71

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Ever wondered how self-compassion could transform your darkest moments? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I open up about my recent struggle with depression and explore the importance of self-compassion for mental health. Through personal stories and insights from books like Resilient by Rick Hanson and Undoing Depression by Richard O’Connor, I share effective self-compassion exercises that help counter automatic negative thoughts. Whether you’re seeking ways to overcome depression, improve your emotional wellbeing, or learn practical self-care strategies, this episode provides actionable tools to help you get through harder times. Tune in for a grounded, honest conversation about mental health and self-compassion.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 - Episode Intro & Check-In
01:45 - Dealing With a Depressive Episode
02:18 - Avoiding Depression & Destigmatizing Discussion
03:24 - Impact of Routine & Negative Spiral
04:11 - Numbing Distractions & Negative Thoughts
04:41 - Books That Helped
05:31 - Realization: Negative Thought Flood & The Power of Reading
06:40 - Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs) Explained
07:13 - Examples of Negative Thought Patterns
09:06 - Visualization Tools & Humor to Combat Negativity
09:26 - Shifting to Self Compassion
10:19 - The Value of Treating Yourself Compassionately
11:17 - Building the Habit of Self-Compassion
11:52 - How to Grow Self-Compassion: Repetition & Neuroplasticity
13:07 - Retraining Your Brain: Practice Makes Progress
14:29 - Self-Compassion Exercise Introduction
15:12 - Guided Self-Compassion Journaling Practice
16:51 - Visualizing Self Compassion & Emotional Healing
18:17 - Why This Practice Works: Giving Yourself What You Needed
19:35 - Holding Onto the Feeling of Self Compassion
20:21 - Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to accept negative thoughts and depression
Practicing self compassion and emotional wellbeing
Sharing and normalizing depression
Journaling practices that can help you feel better
Self care routines that can help you cope with mental health struggles
Replacing negative self talk with self compassion

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Feeling Out of Control? How to Stop an Emotional Spiral and Reclaim Control in 2 Steps | E70

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Ever feel like life is spinning out of control? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I discuss the reality of feeling out of control and share actionable strategies to manage anxiety and overwhelm. Through personal stories about creative work, YouTube growth, and entrepreneurship, I unpack the fight, flight, and freeze response as well as practical ways to regain focus and take control over your life. This episode is packed with mindset tips for mental health, stress management, and building resilience. Whether you’re a business owner, content creator, or anyone working towards a bigger purpose, listen now for self-care tactics you can use right away.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction and check-in
00:52 – Meditating through imposter syndrome
01:58 – The anxiety of YouTube growth and control
03:56 – Universal overwhelm: creative pressure and life stress
05:02 – Fight, flight, freeze: How stress affects your brain
07:18 – Regaining a sense of control: Steps to calm and action
09:25 – Realizing overwhelm is normal in modern life
10:19 – Practical example: Action forward with YouTube & business
13:16 – Focusing energy and overcoming anxiety
15:03 – Taking proactive steps in entrepreneurship
18:38 – Calm, action, and mental resilience
19:33 – Closing thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to recognize overwhelm and what to do about it
Practical strategies to manage anxiety and stress
Understanding fight, flight, and freeze responses
Finding ways to calm your nervous system
Overcoming impostor syndrome
Actionable tips to regain feelings of control
Understanding your mental health so you can achieve

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Get Out of The Comparison Trap: A Perspective Change | E69

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Ever find yourself stuck comparing your journey to someone else's? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I open up about my personal experience with the comparison trap and share actionable tips so that you can overcome it. Listen as I dive into mindset transformation, self-discovery, and how journaling can be a powerful tool to break negative thought patterns. If you’re struggling with self-doubt or constantly measuring your progress against others, this episode offers practical encouragement and a helpful approach to finding inspiration instead of jealousy. Tune in for authentic insights on personal growth, self-improvement, and purpose-driven living.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction & Check-In
01:03 – The Comparison Trap Story
02:52 – How Comparison Makes Us Feel
03:24 – Journaling as a Solution
04:30 – The Perspective Shift: Life as a Journey
05:13 – Visualizing Progress Without Comparison
06:50 – Using Others’ Success for Inspiration
07:41 – Visualizing Your Place on the Journey
08:34 – Breaking Jealousy & Opening to Learning
09:25 – Embracing Mentors & Encouragement
10:09 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to stop comparing yourself to others in a negative way
Practical mindset shifts to overcome the comparison trap
How to avoid negative self talk
Actionable steps to transform jealousy into motivation
Authentic strategies for breaking free from comparison

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Why An Accountability Buddy Is Still Important In The Age of AI | E68

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Is AI the answer for accountability, or do we still need real human connection to thrive in our personal and professional goals? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into the true value of accountability buddies and why technology, especially AI, can’t fully replace genuine human connection and support. From personal stories of overcoming anxiety and building my side business, to practical steps for finding your own accountability partner, this episode is packed with actionable steps for building community, boosting productivity, and staying motivated in your creative journey. If you’ve ever wondered how to find an accountability buddy or why authentic connection still matters in the age of technology, tune in for insights suited for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone working toward their goals.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction & Check-In
01:25 – What is an Accountability Buddy?
03:56 – Real-Life Stories & the Power of Community
05:47 – Why We’ve Been Conditioned to Go It Alone
06:22 – My First Accountability Buddy Experience
07:22 – Why AI Can’t Replace Real Accountability
08:31 – How Accountability Buddies Accelerate Growth
09:29 – Podcast as an Accountability Partner
10:15 – Tips: Finding an Accountability Buddy
13:13 – Speaking Your Ambitions & Finding Like-Minded People
14:39 – Attending Events to Meet Accountability Partners
15:38 – The Importance of Specificity in Accountability
17:37 – Online Communities for Accountability
18:30 – Matching Values & Open Communication
19:20 – Knowing When to Move On from an Accountability Buddy
20:10 – Listener Interaction: Share Your Origin Story
21:18 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Why nothing can replace an accountability buddy
How personal connection and vulnerability lead to growth
How to clearly communicate with an accountability buddy
Why AI can't replace humans
How to build a purposeful support network

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Feel Proud: Overcoming the Achievement Trap | EP 67

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Ever wondered why it’s so hard to feel genuinely proud of yourself, even when you know you’ve achieved something great? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I talk about what it really means to be proud of yourself, and why celebrating your own wins often feels more difficult than it should. I share my personal journey from battling burnout to learning the importance of recognizing progress, even when self-doubt creeps in. Tune in for practical self-care advice, mental health insights, and actionable tips to boost confidence, embrace gratitude, and redefine your own success story. If you’re searching for inspiration on self-growth, overcoming negative self-talk, and building a healthier mindset of achievement, this episode is for you.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction Check In
00:58 – From Burnout to Inspiration
01:31 – Celebrating Wins: A Game-Changing Dinner
02:51 – The Ripple Effect of Feeling Proud
04:02 – Reflecting on Progress: The Podcast & Creative Journey
04:32 – Why Is It So Hard to Be Proud of Yourself?
05:53 – ADHD, Achievement, and Chasing the Next Thing
06:31 – The Struggle With Worthiness and “Good Enough”
07:45 – Society and Humility: The Pressure to Stay Quiet
08:46 – Why Self-Celebration Really Matters
09:32 – The Value of Looking Back at Your Progress
10:22 – Childhood Lessons and Self-Worth
11:14 – Your Chance to Change Your Narrative
11:35 – Action Step: Talk About What You’re Proud Of
13:07 – Practical Ways to Share Your Wins
14:26 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Practical ways to feel proud of yourself
How to celebrate wins and acknowledge wins
How ADHD affects how you feel success
How society teaches us to never feel enough
How to rewrite personal narratives around worthiness
How to open up opportunities for self love and gratitude

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Avoid Burnout: Sustainable Strategies for Long-Term Conscious Productivity | E66

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Feeling burnt out even when you're chasing your passion? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I talk about the connection between sustainability and burnout, especially when pursuing meaningful work you genuinely enjoy. Drawing from my personal experiences, including recent insights from therapy, I explore how burnout can sneak up even when you're passionate, and why understanding your limits is key to long-term success. You'll get practical tips for self-care, sustainable habits, and preventing creative burnout, all designed to support your entrepreneurial and personal growth. Whether you're building a side business, launching a creative project, or simply striving to work smarter, not harder, this episode is packed with actionable advice for keeping your purpose-driven journey on track.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and Check-In
01:05 – Recognizing Burnout in Yourself
02:01 – Burnout While Working on Your Passion
03:17 – Nipsey Hussle's Success Philosophy
04:10 – The Power of Persistence Over Talent
05:08 – Realizations About Burnout and Sustainability
06:26 – Signs and Symptoms of Burnout
07:33 – Negative Self-Talk and Burnout Indicators
08:51 – Tension in the Chest as a Burnout Signal
09:36 – Burnout as a Meter, Not a Switch
10:28 – Extreme Burnout: Lessons from My Father
12:08 – Sustainability in Entrepreneurship
13:27 – Celebrating Wins to Maintain Motivation
14:18 – Acknowledging Accomplishments and Dopamine
15:03 – Real-Time Achievement Recognition
16:09 – The Importance of Scheduling Time Off
16:46 – Meditation as a Burnout Prevention Tool
17:42 – Checking In With Your Body
18:11 – Injecting Fun Into Your Creative Process
19:52 – Sustainability for Entrepreneurs and Creatives
20:30 – Visualizing the Burnout Meter
21:13 – Work Smarter, Not Harder
21:34 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to recognize signs of burnout before it stops you
Learning burnout can strike even if your working on a passion
How to become sustainable
Actionable strategies to avoid burnout
How to tune into what your body needs
Actually working harder not smarter
Staying motivated when it get tough

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Let Go of What You Can’t Control: Mindset Alignment for Inner Peace | E65

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Struggling to control everything in your life or business? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, we talk the art of letting go. Especially for entrepreneurs, creators, and anyone looking to make positive changes in their lives. Drawing from stoic philosophy, personal stories, and real experiences growing a YouTube channel, I explore powerful strategies for overcoming overwhelm, managing worry, and focusing on what really matters. Learn how to move past limiting beliefs while building confidence and resilience with 3 steps to letting go.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro and Check-In
01:27 – Framing the Episode: Facing New Challenges
02:49 – Obstacle of Trying to Control Everything
03:31 – Family and the Habit of Worry
05:39 – Building Something New: Focus and Overwhelm
06:38 – Letting Go: What Can You Control?
07:04 – Step 1: Realizing Action is All You Control
09:54 – Step 2: Letting Go of the Rest
12:36 – Step 3: Take Action
13:35 – Finding Perspective in Nature
14:42 – The Power of Play and Laughter
15:32 – Three Steps to Letting Go
16:26 – Stoic Wisdom: Make the Best Use of Your Power
17:43 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to master the art of letting go
Discover 3 Practical steps to help you let go
Harness stoic philosophy to boost mental resilience
Understand the importance of focusing on actions not outcomes
Overcome limiting beliefs and negative thoughts

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Achieving While Healing: How to Pursue Your Goals in the Face of Mental Health Challenges | E64

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

When battling anxiety, depression, or other mental health struggles do you ever feel like you can't achieve? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I talk about how to be an achiever while you're struggling with mental health challenges like depression, anxiety, or ADHD. From my personal experiences, I share practical steps and mindset shifts that have helped me reach my goals despite ups and downs. This episode is packed with mental health tips for achievers and advice for finding your own version of success, even when traditional advice doesn’t fit. If you’re looking for inspiration and actionable strategies on mental health and goal achievement, this one’s for you!

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction & Check-In
01:52 – Reflecting on Podcast Purpose & Identity
03:07 – Ambition, Achievement & Mental Health Struggles
07:35 – Can People Really Change?
08:39 – Accepting Emotional Ups and Downs
10:14 – Learning to Trust the Highs, Not the Lows
11:46 – Forcing a 9-to-5 Routine vs. Authentic Living
13:25 – Achieving Despite Mental Health Struggles
14:44 – Five Steps to Achieving with Mental Health Challenges
22:07 – Redefining Achievement, Success is What You Want
23:55 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to achieve while struggling
How to accept emotional ups and downs
Trusting the positive moments and not the negative
How to be kinder to yourself
Define what achievement means to you
Accepting depression, anxiety, ADHD, or any other mental health conditions
Prioritizing your mental health and achieving your dreams

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

The Cost of People-Pleasing: How to Set Boundaries | E63

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered if your habit of people pleasing is quietly silencing your true voice? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I discuss the hidden costs of people pleasing and how it can stifle your authentic voice. As someone who's struggled with these habits, I share practical advice and examples from my own life to help you recognize people pleasing patterns and set boundaries that honor your self-worth. Whether you’re dealing with workplace dynamics or everyday interactions, you’ll learn strategies for overcoming people pleasing, practicing saying no, and boosting your self confidence.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Episode Intro & Check-In
01:52 – What is People Pleasing?
03:02 – Empathy vs. People Pleasing
04:05 – Real Life Examples
05:19 – Why People Pleasing is Harmful
06:43 – People Pleasing and Hiding Your Authentic Voice
08:10 – Corporate Life Example
09:26 – Peer Pressure & Self-Worth
11:55 – Deep Roots of People Pleasing
13:53 – Solutions: Detaching Likability from Self-Worth
15:36 – Not Responsible for Others’ Emotions
16:32 – Practicing Saying No
18:01 – Action Steps for Overcoming People Pleasing
20:16 – Empowerment Through Saying No
21:35 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to recognize when people pleasing is taking over
Identify the difference between people pleasing and empathy
Recognize that self worth is not based on likability from others
Practice saying no
Actionable steps to put boundaries in place
Building self esteem and breaking free from others needs
How to live more authentically

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Design a Meaningful Life: Using the Joy Blueprint for Authentic Living | E62

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Discover the one secret action that can unlock your purpose and propel you toward lasting fulfillment. In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive into the powerful concept of "following your joy" and reveal how taking action on what excites you is the key to discovering your life's purpose. I’ll show you how prioritizing what brings you genuine happiness can fuel your energy, connect you with like-minded people, and even open new career pathways. Whether you’re seeking personal development, motivation, or actionable advice on finding your purpose, this episode will give you the tools and inspiration you need. Listen for practical strategies that will help you embrace mindful self-love while building a meaningful life!

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction and Check-In
00:50 - Overcoming Negative Self-Talk
02:46 - The Secret to Discovering Your Purpose
04:45 - Deconstructing “Follow Your Joy”
06:46 - Passion, Commitment, and Fulfillment
10:48 - Why Joy Matters Even Without Monetization
12:59 - The Ripple Effect of Joy in Life and Purpose
14:04 - Taking Action: From Passion to Progress
15:52 - How Passion Attracts Community
17:44 - Practical Outlets for Joy
20:24 - Turning Joy into Action
21:11 - Embracing Change and Flexibility
22:34 - Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to prioritize what brings you joy
How to tune into what makes you happy
Using mindful self love to break negative self talk
How to allow yourself to change directions
How to allow your interests to change and evolve

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Shift from Scarcity to Abundance: 4 Steps for Mindset Alignment | E61

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Struggling with self-doubt or feeling stuck? Discover how shifting to an abundance mindset can completely transform your life, ideas, and opportunities! In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into the powerful concept of abundance vs scarcity mindset. Whether it's money, relationships, or creativity, the way you think can truly shape your reality. Drawing from personal experience, practical steps, and wisdom from mentors and books, this episode explores how adopting an abundance mindset leads to greater happiness, growth, and success. Listen in for actionable tips and mindset strategies that can help you attract abundance and feel more fulfilled every day.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction & Check-in
00:53 – Defining Scarcity and Abundance Mindsets
02:59 – Money, Fear, and Learning Scarcity
04:41 – Family Stories and the Roots of Scarcity
05:04 – Shifting Into an Abundance Mindset
07:06 – Scarcity Mindset in Creativity and Business
08:48 – Real-Life Examples of Abundance
09:58 – Native Wisdom: The Beaver Story
13:11 – Benefits of Trusting Abundance
15:16 – Steps to Practice the Abundance Mindset
21:49 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to shift from scarcity to abundance
Learn the importance of an abundance mindset
Learn practical steps to shift from scarcity to abundance
Explore how embracing a different mindset can change your reality
Find the power of trust and the abundance mentality

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Abundance equation:
Conscious thought + action = manifestation
I got this equation from a Billy Carson video. It made me think of abundance because, conscious thought is envisioning abundance(thinking about it), then taking action (like the beaver in the story, starting with what you have) will give you manifestation of abundance (the beavers dream home for his family). [this will make no sense if you didn't listen to the episode lol]

Sustainable Success: Moving from Forced Discipline to Conscious Productivity | E60

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

What if true discipline isn’t about being hard on yourself, but showing up for what matters most? In episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into the meaning of discipline and how shifting your perspective can lead to genuine growth and fulfillment. This episode explores the difference between discipline rooted in self-criticism versus discipline fueled by passion and purpose, helping you understand which habits and goals truly deserve your effort. Join me as I share personal stories and practical tips on applying consistency in areas that align with your inner fire, challenging common myths around productivity and self-development. Tune in for actionable insights on cultivating purpose-driven discipline, a key to succeeding without burning out.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction & Check-In
00:52 – Self-Doubt
01:24 – Defining Discipline: Two Perspectives
02:29 – Discipline vs. Self-Love
03:21 – Positive vs. Negative Discipline
04:16 – Applying Discipline: Nuances & Myths
05:06 – School, Work, and Blanket Discipline
06:08 – Evaluating Where Discipline is Needed
07:44 – Personal Experiences: School, Engineering, Business
09:06 – Finding Your True Direction
10:15 – Course Correction Analogy
11:23 – Discipline and Purpose Alignment
12:34 – Discipline in Podcasting
13:37 – Quote from The Book of Dharma
15:13 – What Deserves Your Discipline?
17:07 – Finding Your Purpose
18:37 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Discover the true meaning of discipline
How self love and consistency can work together
Understand discipline that aligns with your values
Find actionable tips for applying discipline
Reducing discipline rooted in what others want from you
Finding what you want to be discipline in

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Create Lasting Change: Why Self-Love is the Key to Emotional Regulation | E59

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered how to truly practice self-love and break free from negative self-talk? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I open up about my personal journey with self-love and self-compassion, two crucial elements for personal growth and mental wellness. Drawing from my own struggles and breakthrough moments in therapy, I share actionable steps and daily practices for overcoming negative self-talk for building a kinder relationship with yourself. If you're looking for practical self-love strategies and how to increase self-compassion, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how making small mindset shifts can make a powerful difference in your mental health journey.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction and Check-in
01:12 – Why Talking About Self-Love Feels Uncomfortable
02:52 – What Self-Love and Self-Compassion Mean to Me
04:28 – Recognizing Negative Self-Talk & Its Impact
06:08 – Coping Mechanisms and Compassion
09:29 – Societal Influences and Self-Love as Strength
11:01 – Five Steps to Add Self-Love to Your Life
12:48 – Step 1: It's Learned Behavior
13:03 – Step 2: Physical Cues for Self-Compassion
14:00 – Step 3: Meditation and Nature Walks
16:52 – Step 4: Surrounding Yourself with Positive People
20:20 – Step 5: Celebrating Your Wins
21:50 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to cultivate more self love and compassion
Understanding self support is crucial in personal growth and mental wellbeing
Strategies to increase self love
How to develop self compassion
5 steps to increase your mental health and emotional regulation

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Stop Feeling Stuck: 4 Questions for Mindset Alignment and Success | E58

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Are you the one keeping yourself stuck, and is your own self-talk the secret to finally moving forward? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive into the crucial topic of self-sabotage and how our own self-talk can keep us feeling stuck. I share real-life stories and four powerful self-reflection questions that help uncover the limiting beliefs holding you back. Tune in for actionable mindset tips, personal growth strategies, and practical steps to stop negative thinking patterns so you can break free and start living with intention. This episode is for anyone interested in getting unstuck, and creating lasting change in their life.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and Check-In
01:29 – Are You Keeping Yourself Stuck?
02:14 – The Subconscious Mind and Self-Limiting Patterns
04:49 – Four Self-Reflection Questions Overview
05:24 – The Story You Tell Yourself About Who You Are
09:30 – How Are You Talking to Yourself?
12:54 – Are You Being Violent Towards Yourself?
16:03 – How Do You Want to Show Up and Grow?
22:26 – Four Questions
23:26 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to identify where you are stuck
Discover 4 questions for self reflection
Understand the impact of negative thoughts
Identifying your self critic and how to stop the violence
Realize the important of supportive inner dialogue
Get practical tips for being kinder to yourself

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Overcome Perfectionism: 5 Actionable Steps to Mindset Alignment | E57

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever found yourself stuck in a creative loop, unable to finish because you want everything to be perfect? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive into my personal journey with overcoming perfectionism and share actionable steps to help you stop holding yourself back. If perfectionism has ever kept you from finishing projects or pursuing something, you'll learn practical methods for embracing imperfection while still creating quality work. Discover my top five strategies to start finishing what you create. Tune in for real experiences, effective strategies, and tips to break free from perfectionist paralysis and finally start finishing things.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Episode Intro & Check-In
01:16 – What is Perfectionism?
03:06 – Unfinished Drawings
06:24 – Music & Creative Perfectionism
06:53 – Five Steps for Overcoming Perfectionism
08:14 – Step 1: Recognize Perfectionism as an Excuse
08:49 – Step 2: Loosen Self-Judgment
09:46 – Step 3: Set Deadlines and Timers
14:19 – Step 4: Rely on a Trusted Friend
16:08 – Step 5: Just Do the Thing
18:38 – The Upside of Perfectionism
19:55 – The Power of Finishing
21:14 – Feedback Form & Community Connection
23:36 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to recognize perfectionism
5 strategies to overcome perfectionism
Discover the importance of reducing the inner critic
Actionable steps to finish your creative tasks or projects
Understand why finishing is so vital
Learn how to embrace imperfection
How to finish, grow, and learn from imperfection

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

The Permission to Be Different: Redefining Success Beyond External Expectations | E56

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Are you living by your own rules or trapped in someone else’s mold? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into why fitting into societal, parental, and corporate molds can hold you back from your true potential. I share personal stories and practical strategies to help you find clarity, embrace your individuality, and take ownership of your life decisions. Whether you’re questioning your career, struggling with peer pressure, or seeking personal growth, this conversation provides actionable insights on how to step out of the mold and live more authentically to you. If you’re ready for self-discovery and want to design a life that feels right for you, tune in for honest reflection and inspiration on breaking free.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction & Check-In
00:58 – What Does “The Mold” Mean?
01:59 – External Influences: Family, Society, and Advertisers
04:31 – Stories of Not Fitting In
06:18 – College and Corporate Pressure
07:36 – Authenticity vs. Approval
10:06 – Taking Ownership of Your Own Mold
11:44 – Decision Making & Influences
13:45 – Values, Desires, and Intuition
16:38 – Fear vs. Trust in Decision Making
17:54 – Empowering Yourself to Live Your Own Life
18:42 – Dealing with Resistance & Opinions
20:41 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to separate external pressure from internal desire
How to live more authentically
Overcoming external influences
Accepting resistance as a side affect to following your own path
Owning your unique path
How to live by your own values

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Stop Waiting for Success to Be Happy: Mindset Shifts to Enjoy Your Life Today | E55

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever wonder why happiness feels just out of reach, and how being present can help you enjoy your life more right now? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive into how to be more present and stop postponing your happiness. If you've ever found yourself caught up in thoughts of the past or anxieties about the future, this episode will give you actionable steps to enjoy your life in the present moment. I share real-life stories, mindfulness tips, deep breathing exercises, and journaling strategies that have helped me become less stuck and more fulfilled. Tune in for practical advice on personal growth, mindfulness, and finding your purpose without waiting for "someday."

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Check-In
00:23 – Reflections on Being Present
02:01 – What Does Presence Mean?
03:32 – Becoming Present
06:46 – Why Being Present Lets You Enjoy Life Now
08:45 – How To Become More Present
11:46 – The Power of Journaling & Processing Emotions
15:16 – Letting Go & Healing Emotional "Splinters"
17:25 – Lessons in Presence & Enjoying Life
19:31 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to use mindfulness to be more present
How to use your breathe to come to the present moment
How to think about happiness now
Strategies to help you find happiness where you are

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Redefining Success: How Knowing Yourself Leads to Better Decision-Making | E54

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Discover the four essential questions you need to ask yourself to make better decisions and align your life with your true purpose. In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into the art of making better decisions and why self-awareness is the foundation for life-changing choices. Building on the first part of this series, I share personal stories and powerful insights drawn from books like "The Book of Dharma" and "The Great Work of Your Life" to highlight the importance of knowing yourself, your values, and your strengths. If you're searching for purpose-driven living or actionable self-improvement tips, this episode covers practical strategies for finding clarity and peace with your life choices. Tune in to gain valuable decision-making tools, personal growth inspiration, and effective self-discovery questions that will help you align your life with what truly matters.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome & Check-in
01:06 – Why Decision-Making is Important
02:25 – The Book of Dharma & Synchronistic Insights
03:35 – How Decisions Shape Our Lives
05:00 – Recap of Calming Your Nervous System
05:28 – The Great Work of Your Life & Knowing Yourself
09:10 – Four Self-Discovery Questions to Make Better Decisions
10:56 – Are You Happy With Your Choices?
11:36 – Do You Know Your Values?
16:04 – Do You Recognize Your Strengths?
18:26 – Do You Feel at Ease or At Peace?
20:04 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to make better decisions and start living your purpose
Finding self awareness and self discovery
How to clarify your values
Questions to know yourself better
Allow your authenticity to lead you
Explore your dharma

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Stop Overthinking: How Emotional Regulation Improves Decision-Making | E53

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever find yourself making hasty decisions you later regret? Or maybe never making a decision and regretting staying in the same place? In this episode, I share how anxiety and urgency can negatively impact decision-making, and reveal actionable strategies to help you achieve clarity before making important choices. If you struggle with indecision, workplace stress, or simply want to improve your well-being, tune in for 5 practical techniques to calm your nervous system and boost your ability to make better decisions. Learn stress management tips, mindfulness practices, and ways to find peace, even when life feels chaotic. Join me as we discuss essential steps to making better decisions and working towards living your true purpose.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Check In
00:34 – Anxiety Trigger
01:20 – The Power of Reframing
02:07 – Struggles with Decision-Making
03:09 – Choosing My First Side Business
04:12 – What Does Balancing Your Nervous System Mean?
05:14 – How Stress Shows Up Physically
06:01 – The Impact of Being Unbalanced on Decision-Making
06:32 – Poor Decisions from Anxiety
08:38 – Giving Yourself Time
09:36 – Five Ways to Balance Your Nervous System
10:05 – Slow Down
12:34 – Breathing Techniques
13:02 – Move Your Body/Exercise
14:00 – Seek Community & Connection
15:38 – Get Out in Nature
18:44 – The Importance of Inner Peace
19:31 – Processing Time & Self-Check-In
20:06 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Finding strategies to regulate your nervous system
How to manage stress for better decision making
Find actionable strategies for calming down
How to improve your decision making skills
Overcoming workplace stress
How to avoid urgency culture

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

High-Functioning Depression: Finding Meaning in Mental Health | E52

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever find yourself in a depressive spiral? In this episode of "Working Towards Our Purpose," I open up about my personal journey with depression and mental health, sharing honest reflections and practical coping strategies that have helped me break the cycle. Through candid storytelling, I discuss how therapy, self-awareness, gratitude, and pursuing meaningful work have played pivotal roles in my mental wellness. This episode is perfect for anyone seeking authentic insights on overcoming depression, fostering resilience, and living with purpose. Tune in for a vulnerable conversation filled with mental health tips, depression recovery strategies, and inspiration to find your own sense of purpose.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Check-in
01:31 – Depression & Mental Health
03:02 – What Depression Feels Like
04:37 – Coping Mechanisms and Therapy Insights
06:14 – Handling Depressive Spirals
07:13 – Tools and Strategies for Managing Depression
08:37 – The Power of Acceptance vs. Resistance
09:27 – Empathy, Kindness, & Not Judging Others
10:21 – How I Pulled Myself Out
11:37 – Practicing Gratitude as a Tool
12:23 – Finding Purpose & Dharma in Hard Moments
14:41 – Vulnerability, Authenticity, and Sharing My Story
16:03 – Turning Weakness into Strength
17:32 – Takeaways

💡Key Takeaways
In this episode you'll learn:
How to accept depression and work through it
How to achieve along side mental health struggles
How to find acceptance and mindfulness rather than resistance
How to practice strategies to help cope with depression
Pursuing meaningful work during tough times
Vulnerability and authenticity fostering deeper human connection
Finding that your struggles can become your strengths

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Redefining Purpose: Exploring Dharma for a More Authentic and Meaningful Life | E51

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

If you've ever felt a restless inner voice urging you toward something greater? That feeling matters. In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into the true meaning of purpose and explore how it shapes our lives, careers, and sense of fulfillment. Drawing inspiration from my own experiences leaving corporate America, wrestling with self-worth, and learning from mentors, I discuss the ancient concept of Dharma as described in the Bhagavad Gita and Stephen Cope’s book, The Great Work of Your Life. This episode is perfect for anyone seeking clarity on their life’s purpose, tools for personal growth, and strategies for living with intention. If you're craving inspiration to break away from the 9-to-5 grind and discover your calling, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Check In
01:33 – Purpose
02:54 – Wrestling with Purpose & TEDx Speech Writing
03:59 – From Corporate to Entrepreneurship
06:18 – Networking & Meeting Purpose-Driven People
08:58 – What Does Purpose Mean?
09:45 – Book Review: The Great Work of Your Life
11:00 – Understanding Dharma & the Bhagavad Gita
12:19 – Why Dharma Resonates With Me
13:54 – Reading a Key Paragraph on Dharma
15:55 – Question to Listeners: Do You Feel the Pull?
16:42 – Closing Thoughts & How To Connect

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to leave a corporate job
The concept of Dharma
Listening to that inner drive for something more
Finding purpose driven work

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Breaking the Myth of Doing It All Alone: How to Ask for Support and Thrive | E50

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 05 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered why accepting support feels so uncomfortable, and how opening up to it could change your life? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dig deep into the challenge of accepting support and why it’s so hard for many of us. Reflecting on my own resistance, I share personal stories and break down common barriers like worthiness issues and the myth of being “self-made.” This conversation explores how leaning into community, mentorship, and available resources can help us reach our true potential. Tune in for a vulnerable and practical take on how accepting support can spark personal growth, career advancement, and real transformation.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Check-in
00:51 – The Uncomfortable Truth About Accepting Support
01:51 – Acknowledging Milestones
03:05 – Lessons From Running a Half Marathon
04:32 – Spotting Resistance to Help
05:34 – Why We Feel Like a Burden: Worthiness & Support
07:46 – Everyday Examples of Rejecting Support
08:39 – The “Self-Made” Myth & Societal Pressures
10:28 – Trusting the Universe & Support Systems
11:54 – What Real Support Feels Like
13:18 – A Story About Missing Help
14:53 – Accepting Small Acts of Help
16:26 – Learning to Ask for and Receive Support
17:15 – Mentorship and Life-Changing Support
18:36 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to start accepting support
How personal growth relies on help from others
How feelings of unworthiness hold us back
How the self made myth keeps us from success
How to ask for help
Trusting the process and those around you
Letting go of pride and opening up to a greater sense of purpose

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Overcoming Comparison Anxiety: 3 Steps to Focus on Your Own Success | E49

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever catch yourself stuck in the comparison trap, measuring your worth against others? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I share my personal journey with overcoming the habit of comparing yourself to others, especially in fitness, work, and daily life. You'll hear about practical strategies from real-life experiences, including running my first half marathon and shifting the focus from external achievement to personal growth. We explore effective steps to recognize comparison, set boundaries, and change your mindset. Tune in for actionable steps on how to stop comparing yourself to others, boost your self-esteem, and embrace your unique path.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way
00:00 – Intro
02:28 – The Comparison Trap: Lessons from Racing
04:07 – The Power of Focusing on Yourself
06:26 – Three Steps to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
09:09 – Real-Life Examples: Social Media, Work, and Relationships
10:27 – Analogies for Breaking Free from Comparison
13:08 – Comparing Yourself to Past Versions
15:30 – Injecting Kindness Into Self-Comparison
17:50 – The True Cost of Comparison
19:52 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to take actionable steps to stop comparing yourself
Practical tips for overcoming negative comparison habits
How to bounce back from setbacks
How to see progress not perfection
How to send comparison energy on yourself
How to stop looking to others for self worth
How to improve your self confidence and mental wellness

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | E48

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever felt pressured to live up to others’ expectations? Want to find the confidence to be your true self, even when it means defying what others want for you? In this episode of "Working Towards Our Purpose," I open up about my journey in overcoming the expectations of others and embracing authenticity. Tune in as I break down the three stages of navigating societal norms and family pressures, sharing real experiences from leaving my corporate job to pursuing a purpose-driven lifestyle. This episode explores why self-acceptance and worthiness matter. If you’re searching for personal growth, confidence, and tips on living true to yourself, this episode is for you.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro
01:26 – Balancing Positivity and Negativity
02:03 – Rooting the Podcast in Worthiness
02:52 – Struggles with Others’ Expectations
03:28 – Leaving my Corporate Job
05:09 – Navigating Relationships and Expectations
06:15 – Secluding Yourself for Self-Protection
07:21 – Building Confidence & Value-Aligned Connections
08:32 – Facing Judgment and Showing Up as Yourself
10:47 – Practicing Authenticity Regardless of Opinions
12:44 – Expectations Are Often Internal
13:42 – Closing

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Learn practical ways to overcome expectations of others
Discover 3 stages of overcoming expectations
Understand why self worth and self acceptance matter
How to gain confidence for navigating societal pressures
How to navigate a career change and leave a 9 to 5 job
How to practice authenticity

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Give Yourself Permission: Mindset Alignment to Reclaim Your Life | E47

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

What would you do if you stopped waiting for permission and just started chasing the things that light you up? In this episode of "Working Towards Our Purpose," I dive into the power of giving yourself permission to pursue your passions and break past self-doubt. Through personal stories about learning guitar, overcoming obstacles, and shifting perspectives, I illustrate how self-empowerment can unlock your potential and help you achieve your goals. You'll also hear actionable tips for flipping feelings like jealousy into inspiration and surrounding yourself with supportive people. If you're looking for podcast episodes about purpose, self-growth, and unlocking your true potential, this one is filled with practical insights and motivation to help you move forward.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro
01:36 – Why This Episode Is Different: Giving Yourself Permission
02:05 – Learning the Saxophone and Getting Permission
03:56 – Self-Teaching Guitar and Personal Empowerment
06:54 – Comparing Yourself to Others & Inspiration
09:16 – Three Actionable Tips to Give Yourself Permission
13:19 – Surround Yourself with Encouraging People
15:19 – The Modern World: You Don’t Need Permission
17:39 – “Are You Good Enough?”
18:14 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Discover how giving yourself permission is a key to personal growth
How mindset shifts can help you overcome self doubt
Understand the importance of a supportive community
Explore inspiring stories of giving self permission
Actionable tips to help you give yourself the permission

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

The Power of One Thing: How to Focus for Conscious Productivity and Success | E46

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Want to break through overwhelm and finally achieve your goals? Discover the single most powerful productivity strategy I’ve found. In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive into the game-changing concept from the book "The One Thing" and share how focusing on a single, high-impact task can dramatically increase your productivity and progress toward your goals. Drawing from personal experience, I unpack why most to-do lists leave you stuck, how to overcome "shiny object syndrome," and how to identify the one action that truly moves the needle for your business or passion project. Whether you're building a side hustle, starting a new venture, or simply aiming for better work-life balance, this productivity tip is especially powerful for anyone juggling limited time and motivation. Listen in for inspiration, actionable productivity hacks, and powerful strategies to start seeing real results in your day-to-day life.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome
01:50 – The Productivity Struggle: Where to Start
03:40 – Introducing the "One Thing" Concept
05:34 – The 80/20 Principle & True Prioritization
06:35 – Shiny Object Syndrome and Focusing Your Energy
08:05 – How to Pick the Most Important Task
09:44 – Why Multitasking is a Lie: Flow State and Focus
11:42 – Self-Trust & Building Momentum
12:40 – Lessons from Steve Jobs: Success Through Focus
14:33 – Real Results: My Experience with the "One Thing"
15:50 – Brain Science of Focus & Efficiency
16:25 – How to Apply This Productivity Hack
17:08 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to unlock the one thing strategy
How to increase your productivity
How to eliminate multitasking and enter flow state
How to overcome shiny object syndrome
How to trust yourself
How to regularly practice the one thing strategy
How to take the 80/20 principle further

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | E45

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Ever wondered how to conquer imposter syndrome and turn self-doubt into your superpower? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I open up about my recent struggles with imposter syndrome and how it’s impacted my journey as a podcaster. Discover practical strategies on how to overcome imposter syndrome, boost your self-confidence, and embrace the growth that comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Drawing from my own experiences with a TEDx application and comparing my podcast to others, I share valuable mental health tips and personal development techniques to help you manage feelings of inadequacy. If you want to develop resilience, believe in your abilities, and share your unique gifts with the world, give this episode a try.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome
01:38 – Connecting Dream Meaning to Podcast Growth
02:46 – Struggling with Imposter Syndrome Last Week
04:36 – The TEDx Application and Self-Doubt
05:17 – What Is Imposter Syndrome?
06:38 – Comparing Myself to Other Podcasts
07:43 – How to Deal with Imposter Syndrome: Four Steps
11:13 – Reframing Imposter Syndrome as Growth
12:09 – Your Gifts Matter: Letting Your Voice Be Heard
14:36 – A Personal Story on Impacting Others
16:29 – Call to Action
17:15 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to understand impostor syndrome
See where impostor syndrome shows up in your life
Discover why feelings of self doubt are normal
How to use self doubt as motivation for personal growth
Find encouragement to keep creating when you feel like an impostor

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Stop Spiraling in Self-Doubt: Finding Presence and Self-Acceptance | E44

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Feeling stuck in a cycle of self-doubt or fear? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I open up about struggling with self-doubt, fear, and negative thinking, sharing practical steps to overcome these challenges and refocus on personal growth. Tune in as I discuss the importance of accepting your feelings, living in the present moment, and using actionable self-improvement tools like journaling, gratitude, and mindful movement. If you're looking for inspiration on mental health, self-acceptance, or personal development, this episode is for you. Join me as we navigate our unique journeys towards purpose and positivity together.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome
01:09 – Opening up about struggling with fear and self-doubt
02:22 – Choosing between fear and positivity
04:02 – Step 1: Acceptance and self-worth
05:46 – Step 2: Focusing on the present moment
07:28 – Practical tips to become present
09:22 – Practicing gratitude and slowing down
11:30 – Accepting your best effort
12:08 – Closing thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Ways to overcome self-doubt
How to practice self acceptance
How to incorporate mindful practices in your routine
How to slow down and refocus on goals
How to seek support
How to practice being authentic to yourself

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Stop Self-Sabotaging Success: Mindset Alignment to Allow More Good | E43

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into the concept of the "upper limit problem," inspired by the book The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks. I share personal stories and practical strategies about overcoming self-sabotage, embracing abundance, and unlocking your potential for success, love, and creativity. Tune in for insights on personal growth, mindset shifts, and actionable advice to help you break through self-imposed barriers and work toward your purpose.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:44 – Rediscovering the Library
03:54 – Community Bartering
06:45 – Introducing the Upper Limit Problem from The Big Leap
08:54 – Real-life Examples of the Upper Limit Problem
12:09 – Personal Experiences and Self-Sabotage Insights
15:49 – How to Overcome the Upper Limit Problem
17:47 – Practicing Positivity and Using Meditation for Growth
19:37 – Resources & Book Recommendations
20:32 – How to Connect for a Dream Purpose Chat
20:44 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to overcome self-sabotage
How to develop a growth mindset
How to discover the upper limit problem
How to use meditation and mindfulness to overcome your limits
How to cultivate an abundance mindset
How to identify your upper limits
How to find more love, creatively, and wealth

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Set Sustainable Goals: 4 Steps to Conscious Productivity and Success | E42

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into goal-setting strategies for creators and entrepreneurs, sharing actionable tips on creating effective goals to achieve your dreams. I discuss removing ego from your goals, taking practical steps now, actively refining your objectives, and being super specific with goal-setting. If you’re looking to build purposeful habits and get inspired to turn your creative passion into a business, this episode will give you valuable insights and motivation. Tune in for personal stories, productivity advice, and guidance on finding your purpose in both music and podcasting.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:02 – Unison Studios Open House
01:42 – Farmer’s Market Plans
03:02 – Reflecting on Past Goal-Setting
03:59 – The Downside of Goals & Making Them Useful
04:49 – Tip 1: Taking Ego Out of Your Goals
06:02 – Defining Your True Goal
06:58 – Creating Specific and Achievable Goals
08:36 – Collaborating and Funding Creative Projects
09:36 – Refining Your Goals and Honest Self-Assessment
10:26 – Tip 2: Start Your Goals Now
12:18 – Tip 3: Regularly Refine Your Goals
15:04 – Sharing and Owning Your Goals Publicly
15:56 – Tip 4: Be Super Specific with Goals
17:30 – Recap: Four Goal-Setting Tips
18:34 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to set practical goal setting
How to use goals to achieve your dreams
How to remove ego from your goals
How to refine your goals for success
How to get specific with your goals
Learn 4 practical goal setting tips

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

3 Ways to Manage Your Energy for Better Emotional Regulation and Performance | E41

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into the concept of energy. How it shapes our daily lives, influences our relationships, and fuels our personal growth. Through storytelling and practical insights, I discuss how positive energy, mindful decisions, and passion projects can lead to greater fulfillment. Tune in to discover effective ways to harness your energy to expand creativity, personal development, and entrepreneurial success.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:39 - Podcast/music studio
01:12 - Starting guitar lessons
02:41 - Relished Roots
06:04 - Topic of the day: Energy
07:12 - How interactions impact us
11:10 - Getting energy from activities (music, business, creation)
14:44 - Noticing and managing your own energy levels
18:36 - Releasing negative energy and self-regulation strategies
20:05 - What you put energy into grows

💡Key Takeaways
In this episode you'll learn:
How to understand energy's impact on personal growth and creativity
How to boost your own energy and transform your environment
How to find activities that fuel your energy
How to manage your own energy levels
How to make decisions with regard to your energy
How to create sustainable routines to support your energy
How to release negative energy

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

3 Steps to Find Your Purpose: How to Make Real Change and Live Authentically | E40

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I dive deep into how to make meaningful life changes, even when the task feels overwhelming. Drawing inspiration from observing nature and sharing personal stories, I break down my 3 key steps for starting new things, overcoming fear, and finding motivation. Whether you want to pursue your dreams, start a creative project, or quit your job, you'll learn actionable strategies for personal growth and building habits for success. Tune in for insights on finding your unique purpose and leveraging community support for lasting transformation.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:19 – The Analogy of Work, Purpose, and Overthinking
05:14 – Step 1: Taking the Easiest First Step
08:22 – Step 2: Focusing on the Present Moment
11:00 – Step 3: Getting an Accountability Buddy
14:38 – Recap of the Three Key Steps
16:01 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways
How to overcome overwhelm
How to start working towards your life purpose
How to discover the power of taking the first step
How to become present and let go
How to get inspired by real life examples
How to use mindfulness and self-reflection to align with your purpose
How to align with your unique talents and purpose

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | E39

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I share my personal journey of quitting my job and the challenges and lessons that came with it. I discuss overcoming fear, learning from past experiences, and how aligning with my core values inspired a purposeful career change. Plus, I break down the role of influential books and intuitive signs in making life-changing decisions. Tune in for real talk on navigating career transitions, finding your purpose, and taking bold steps toward a more fulfilling life.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro
01:19 – Quitting my job
03:12 – The emotional process of quitting
04:36 – Facing people-pleasing and approval-seeking
05:24 – Looking for signs and following intuition
07:00 – Reflections on previous experiences with quitting
08:32 – Lessons learned from quitting past jobs
10:00 – Positive support versus expectations
11:35 – It’s never easy to quit
12:20 – What made it possible to quit this time
13:21 – Book 1: “Rebel” and finding your path
14:22 – Book 2: “The Artist’s Way” and creative exercises
16:30 – Book 3: “The Big Leap” and powerful changes
17:22 – Tying lessons together and clarifying my direction
18:50 – Helping others, my new purpose
19:54 – Challenges and excitement for the next steps
21:22 – How these books and values led me to quit
22:00 – The power of values in career decisions
23:32 – Clarifying and writing my values
24:16 – Empathy for anyone struggling to quit
25:12 – Where to find my book reviews and writings
25:49 – What’s next

💡Key Takeaways
How to transition in a career
How it feels to quit your job
How you can invest in yourself
How to use tools to help you to change a job
How to surround yourself with positive voice to help guide you to become more happy
How to get out of a bad job
How to listen to yourself
How to find a more value driven career

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

My Single: Between Lines
Follow me on Substack

3 Books Mentioned
Rebel by Graham Cochrane
The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
Big Leap by Gay Hendricks

How to Let Go of What No Longer Fits: Redefining Success and Purpose | E38

Pleasant Podcasts — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of "Working Towards Our Purpose," I share my personal journey of rediscovering passion for music, embracing purpose-driven living, and making bold career changes. After a long hiatus, Working Towards Our Purpose returns with an unfiltered format, focusing on creative growth, overcoming fear of judgment, and building sustainable habits. Listeners will discover insights on pursuing goals, finding fulfillment through creative expression, and taking transformative steps toward happiness, especially after leaving a stagnant job. Tune in for inspiring self-development ideas and actionable strategies for personal growth.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome back
00:57 – New podcast format
01:43 – The challenge of not overthinking & embracing imperfection
02:00 – Music & creative journey
02:35 – Trusting new directions
04:04 – Music as a source of confidence & purpose
05:35 – Choosing fulfillment over financial gain
06:29 – Visualizing an ideal life & integrating music
07:10 – Strategy: writing, recording, and releasing monthly songs
08:39 – Facing fears & sharing creative work publicly
10:00 – Goal-setting
11:37 – Podcasting growth mindset & habit formation
12:45 – Sustainable approaches for podcast and creative projects
13:49 – Choosing self-worth & trusting the process
14:26 – Closing thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to embrace imperfection
How to lean into self expression and connection
How to value passion over financial incentives
How to be consistent with goals
How to leave a job that doesn't fit
How to visualize and dream big
How to build habits for long term self growth
How to pursue personal growth

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Empowering Your Authentic Voice: Using Music to Rewrite Your Story with Adam Christoferson | E37

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

"I want to use music and the arts to really bring people out of the shadow, celebrate diversity, and bring them into community. To be able to give back, and recognize that everybody has value." -Adam

I had the pleasure of speaking with Adam Christoferson, the founder of Musical Intervention in this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose. Adam shares his powerful vision of creating opportunities for individuals who have been marginalized by society to be celebrated through their creative expressions. We delve deep into the transformative impact music and creative activities have on mental health, community building, and empowerment. Adam shares his personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs in establishing a space where he uses music as a tool for healing and purpose for those who struggle.

Bio: Adam Christoferson's passion for music started at a young age when his uncle had a big hit on the radio the year he was born. After attending some of his concerts at a young age and experiencing the power of music, his father bought him a drum set at the age of 8 and he fell in love with playing. Music became a safe place for him to communicate and connect with others, spending hours jamming with friends during his adolescents. After writing and playing his own songs, he became an advocate for using music as a tool for healing and connection. He got a degree in recreational therapy from Southern Connecticut University and then started working with elderly in the hospitals and the homeless at shelters to write songs together and hold open mic nights. Adam took him ability to create music with others to the community giving people a space to feel like they have purpose no matter their history or situation.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:33 – Early Life & Musical Roots
02:08 – Discovering Music as a Safe Space
04:09 – Building Community & The Dream of Musical Intervention
06:35 – Inspiration, Identity, and Overcoming Challenges
10:29 – From Singer-Songwriter to Purpose-Driven Work
12:03 – The Journey to College & Finding Recreational Therapy
16:20 – Early Career: Therapy, Community, and Breaking Out on His Own
18:21 – Running for Mayor & Doubling Down on Musical Intervention
21:24 – Creating a Judgement-Free Creative Space
24:02 – Balancing Mission and Business: Struggles & Successes
29:20 – The Power of Fighting for Others
32:29 – Vulnerability, Improvisation & Building Community
37:11 – Making Music Accessible to All
38:14 – Yale Collaboration & Neuroscience of Music
41:51 – Music’s Impact on Mental Health & Family Connection
44:08 – Music Therapy vs. Recreational Therapy
47:31 – Giving People Identity Beyond Their Diagnosis
48:25 – What is Purpose? Adam’s Reflections
52:27 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to use music to transform healing
How to find self expression in music
How to connect people with different backgrounds with music
How use music therapy to heal
How to find vulnerability in music
How music therapy can help mental health struggles
The importance of identify
How to see individuals for their talents and strengths
How to be seen and heard
How to make positive change in your community

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Adam:

How to Overcome Perfectionism: Embracing Self-Compassion on Your Purpose Journey | E36

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 30 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Today I reflect on the challenges of starting new ventures and the frustrations that come with a lack of immediate progress. This showed up for me when building my new website and learning Wordpress, and also starting a new job. I discuss the internal struggle of being hard on yourself for not grasping things quickly. As I navigate through self-criticism and the need for patience and grace, I arrive at the importance of perseverance and self-compassion when embarking on unfamiliar journeys. Impostor syndrome and self doubt are part of the process, but I think it's helpful to talk about it and not just keep it to yourself because we all struggle with it.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:35 – Frustration with Lack of Progress
01:13 – Learning to Give Yourself Grace
01:35 – Website Building Struggles
03:01 – The WordPress vs. GoDaddy/Squarespace Debate
04:09 – Learning New Technology & Self-Doubt
05:18 – Recognizing Patterns of Self-Criticism
06:38 – Giving Up Too Soon: Personal Stories
07:12 – Root Causes of Impatience & Imposter Syndrome
08:28 – Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs
09:58 – Embracing Patience and Kindness to Yourself
10:29 – Starting a New Job & Doubting Your Value
11:51 – Facing Daunting New Challenges
13:08 – Taking Action Over Self-Criticism
13:58 – Breaking Through Limiting Beliefs at Any Age
15:24 – Progress Over Perfection: Final Reflections & Takeaways
17:25 – Closing

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Feeling frustrated from lack of progress
How to deal with self criticism
How to not let self doubt stop you
How to explore mindset shifts
How to give yourself grace
How to prioritize mental health
How to take small consistent actions
How to not listen to negative self talk
How to not let limiting beliefs stop you
How to reduce self criticism

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

The Psychology of Wealth: Building a Purpose-Driven Real Estate Investment Career with Phil Restivo | E35

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 23 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Phil went from not being able to get a job, to owning his own plumbing business, flipping houses, and owning 7 rental properties.

In this episode I sat down with my friend Phil Restivo. A resilient and motivated person who doesn't take no for an answer. He is a plumber by trade but as you will find out in this episode, he is truly someone with a deep thirst for learning. Not knowing how to do something has never stopped him, and propelled him to owning his own business and multiple properties which he uses to rent out. Phil shares how he overcame personal and professional hurdles, from battling severe sleep apnea to navigating life with ADD. Phil's story is filled with invaluable insights and inspiration from someone who is determined to get what he wants. Join us as we uncover the transformative moments and pivotal decisions that have shaped Phil's unique path towards fulfillment and purpose.

Bio: Phil Restivo is a hands-on kind of guy who found his passion for craftsmanship at a young age. He decided to attend a technical school that offered hands-on training for half the year and academics for the other half. Although he initially saw it as a way to "get out of work free," he found that the school provided him with valuable trade skills. He graduated with a focus in plumbing, but struggled with the idea of not going to college. After not being able to find a plumbing job because of a bad driving record, he started working on cars for money. He worked at various body shops for a few years before returning to plumbing. After getting his license, and inspired by believing he could run a company better than the people he worked for, he opened up his own plumbing business. As someone who gets board easily, he then moved his interest into real estate and began to research it obsessively, while at the same time picking up work in home remodeling. Years later he finally had a down payment for his first home that he flipped in a few months. He was hooked after that and today Phil has 7 rental properties while still running his plumbing business.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:53 – Early Life & Schooling
02:00 – Lessons from Tech School
04:25 – Early Career Path Choices
06:11 – Learning Through Setbacks
08:11 – Plumbing & The Apprenticeship Challenge
11:31 – Gaining Experience & Getting Licensed
13:06 – Real Estate Aspirations & Starting Side Hustles
16:21 – Cross-Country Travel: A Pivotal Moment
22:13 – Starting a Plumbing Business from Scratch
24:30 – Taking Any Work & Finding a Mentor
30:10 – Business Growth & When to Hire Help
31:06 – Diving into Real Estate: First House Flip
37:10 – Learning from Flips & Shifting to Rentals
44:07 – Expanding Business: Rehab Work & Real Estate Strategy
51:55 – Managing Multiple Properties & Work-Life Balance
53:43 – Pushing Through Setbacks & Staying Motivated
57:59 – Learning Styles and Personal Development
61:16 – Self-Limitation, ADD, and Building Self-Confidence
67:23 – Purpose vs. Happiness: What Really Matters?
73:10 - Closing

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to take a nontraditional path
How to become a plumber
How to overcome self doubt
How to navigate real estate investing
How to flip a house and become a landlord
How to learn how you learn
How to overcome ADHD
How to use your ADHD as a strength
How to learn through failure
How to manage multiple properties and a business
How to shift from chasing money to seeking personal purpose

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Phil Restivo:

PR Mechanical Systems

How to Break Free from Societal Expectations and Live Authentically with Chelsea Risling | E34

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 16 May 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Opening a boutique supply store at the age of 24 after graduating college with a degree in philosophy.

Chelsea Risling is the founder of Meraki Supply Co. a boutique storefront featuring products from other small businesses. In this episode we talked about her experience of graduating college and then going in a completely different direction and opening a small business. We talked about the the challenges and triumphs of pursuing passions, the evolution of purpose amidst societal expectations, and the importance of community in guiding one's journey. We also talked a lot about not fearing change and trying something new, like moving to Connecticut and working for Yale's Hockey team. We can all draw insights and motivation from Chelsea's experiences and outlook on life.

Bio: Chelsea Risling is a Saskatchewan native who after high school, moved to Calgary to pursue a degree in philosophy at the University of Calgary. After getting out of college and doing some traveling, she decided going to law school wasn't for her and opened up a boutique retail store at the age of 24 with no business experience. After running it successfully for 6 years, she decided to close the doors in 2019 to pursue something new. Closing her store just before the pandemic allowed her to move into a consulting role to help other businesses struggling at the time. She then took an opportunity to move to New Haven and work for the Yale Hockey team, and is now at another pivotal point in her life as she moves back to Canada to redefine herself and move onto her next venture.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:58 – Childhood in Canada & Foundational School Experiences
02:04 – Choosing Philosophy: Education and Self-Discovery
03:31 – Pressure to Choose a Career Path: Canadian vs. American Work Culture
04:44 – Following Passion vs. Practicality in Education Choices
05:11 – Travel Adventures & Taking Risks
06:36 – The Fork in the Road: Law School or Entrepreneurship?
08:27 – Leasing a Storefront & Overcoming Fear
09:51 – Decision-Making: Heart vs. Logic
11:02 – Building a Boutique: Concept, Products, and Space Design
12:10 – Digital Community Building: Instagram & Connectivity
15:01 – Community: The Heart of Small Business
17:41 – Financial Realities: Retail vs. Ecommerce
18:29 – Creating an Experience: Store Aesthetic & Customer Connection
22:25 – Growth & Evolution of Meraki Supply Co.
25:46 – Pivot to Consulting During the Pandemic
27:29 – Helping Other Businesses & Overcoming Overthinking
31:24 – Looking to the Future: Next Steps and Possibilities
38:59 – Defining Purpose: Authenticity, Kindness, and Change
41:46 – Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to start a brick and mortar business at a young age
How to build community
How to foster local relationships to transform small business
How to find authenticity in personal and professional life
How to use your gut instead of logic in decision making
How to embrace uncertainty on your pathway to success
How to not follow the crowd and find your own way
How to not live by societal expectations

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Chelsea:

How to Build a Multi-Passionate Career with Music and Purpose with Joe George | E33

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 09 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Joe George has figured out how to make music for a living.

In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose I had the pleasure of talking to Joe George, a songwriter, producer, and Emmy nominated film composer with an unwavering love for creating. Joe shares his experiences in first falling in love with music, figuring out how to make money gigging at an early age, and finding his way into the film industry . We'll delve into his upcoming album "folk cinema" and the inspiration behind its unique concept, alongside insights into his personal creative process. We discuss the creation of his studio, Gentle Bear Studios, and how he's curated a place for stillness, thinking, and creating. Find out how Joe's dedication to his craft continues to influence and inspire those around him, as well as his unique perspectives on purpose and self-discovery.

Bio: Joe George's love for music started at a young age when his brother and him listened to a few Beatles records. After asking for a guitar he received one from Santa Claus. In his early teens he started performing at cafes and coffee shops around town, showcasing both cover songs and his own original music. With a passion for writing his own songs and playing guitar, Joe George has established himself as a musician and performer at an early age. He then went on to college to study music and moved to Chicago to pursue music. He played tons of gigs for money, and also played in his own original music bands before getting into film scoring. Now he runs Gentle Bear studios in Chicago where he prides it on a place to create and think and express ideas under little pressure. He also plays guitar in the band Into It Over It.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction to Joe George
00:01:10 – Growing Up with Music in Peoria
00:02:42 – Early Dreams of a Musical Career
00:04:04 – First Musical Memories & The Beatles Influence
00:07:27 – Moving to Chicago & Building a Music Career
00:12:24 – Film Scoring and Folk Cinema: Blending Music and Movies
00:21:14 – Gentle Bear Studios: Philosophy & Creative Space
00:27:38 – Playing in Into It Over It: Joining the Band
00:32:17 – Balancing Multiple Musical Projects & Time Management
00:35:59 – Creative Process and Handling Self-Doubt
00:40:46 – Upcoming Album “Folk Cinema” – Meaning & Inspiration
00:45:47 – Reflections on Purpose & Artistic Meaning
00:51:01 – Closing

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to pursue music as a career
How to navigate Chicago's music scene
How to transition from solo gigs to being in a band
How to put in the 10,000 hours as a musician
How to score a film
How to balance creative time management
How to deal with self doubt
How to embrace authenticity in your art
How to focus on creativity instead of external validation

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Joe George:

Watch "Stones Throw" music video
Joe George IG and TikTok
Into It Over It

How Travel Changes Your Perspective: Lessons from Nepal with Michael Cordone | E32

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 28 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

My twin brother Michael just came back from a month long trip to Nepal and shares what he learned.

In this episode I sat down with my twin brother Michael to discuss his recent trip to a small remote village in Nepal. Michael shares some of the lessons he learned and shares his insight into the village's way of life. While he was there he helped rebuild homes that were damaged from an earthquake. We discussed his approach to photographing the people and the warm reception from the village community. Michael talks about the village's close-knit and self-reliant community and how different their way of life is from ours. Through Michael's reflections, the conversation explores cultural differences, the power of human connection, and the rewards of stepping out of comfort zones.

Bio: Michael Cordone III is a dedicated and passionate photographer who has spent the last year immersing himself in the world of photography. After quitting his corporate engineering job 1 year ago, and has since explored many different aspects of the craft and is learning as much as possible. He also just got back from a month long service trip to Nepal, helping a small village rebuild after earthquake damage.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
01:19 – Recap: Reflecting on a Year of Entrepreneurship
03:38 – Lessons Learned: Highs, Lows, and Self-Development
08:33 – Nepal Trip Overview & Motivation
12:43 – Decision Making: Balancing Business, Fear, and Self-Deserving
16:41 – Arrival & First Impressions of Nepal
21:25 – Kathmandu vs. Village Life: Contrast & Culture
23:33 – Trekking Through the Himalayas
27:13 – Reception in the Village: Community & Connection
34:40 – Photography in Nepal: Capturing People & Culture
36:33 – Community & Self-Sufficiency in the Village
41:36 – Living Without Money: Barter, Trade, and Values
43:39 – Daily Life & Cultural Insights: Longevity, Health, and Support
44:39 – Volunteer Work: Rebuilding Homes Post-Earthquake
47:47 – The Ripple Effect: Positive Impact & Relationships
48:45 – Rapid Fire Questions: Music, Food, Travel Lessons
53:12 – Post-Trip Reflections: Business Perspective & Mindset Shift
54:05 – Cultural Wisdoms: Well-being Over Productivity
55:59 – Final Stories & Conversations on Meditation
58:44 – Supporting Michael’s Work: Print Shop & Substack
61:08 – Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to transition from corporate 9to5 to entrepreneurship
How to face unexpected challenges
How to embrace the highs and lows of self employment
How to find personal growth in struggle
How to find community, self reliance and connection in a foreign country
What lessons were learned from Nepal
How to build genuine relationships
How to embrace vulnerability
How to use photography to tell a story
How to embrace meditation and self reflection
How to have work life balance as an entrepreneur

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Michael:

Follow MC3 on IG
Follow MC3 on Substack
Buy a print from Michael

How to Find Purpose Through Manual Craft and Music with Cory Reynolds | E31

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Cory gave one of his custom built guitars to one of his favorite bands after a show.

In this episode I sit down with Cory Reynolds, the founder and owner of CRC Guitars, who shares his inspiring journey of turning his passion for music and woodworking into a business. We discuss the challenges teaching yourself how to build a guitar, the impact of human connection has on his craft, and the importance of doing work that involves the things you love. From his humble beginnings, to his plans for the future, Cory's story is a testament to the power of self-belief and determination. Join us as we delve into the world of guitar building and the pursuit of purpose!

Bio: Cory Reynolds spent years working in construction before finding himself in a job of a different industry he didn't enjoy very much. This pushed him to search for something more. After thinking about his two passions, music and working with his hands, he decided to teach himself how to build a guitar. After the first failed guitar, he had a friend buy the parts so he could build his second, and he's been building guitars for people ever since. Cory has blended his passion for working with his hands and his love for music with his business CRC Guitars.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:53 – Cory’s Background: Homeschooling and Early Interests
01:44 – Growing Up Homeschooled: Flexibility & Family
02:33 – Finishing School Early & Starting Work in Construction
03:25 – Homeschool Curriculum and Learning Approach
04:18 – Perspectives on Higher Education
05:16 – Early Career: Construction Work and Transitioning
06:01 – Job Struggles and the Spark Toward Guitar Building
07:22 – Diving Into Building Guitars: First Steps
08:43 – Creativity, ADHD, and Hyperfocus
09:47 – The Role of Music in Cory’s Life
12:23 – Woodworking vs. Carpentry: Lessons Learned
14:09 – Garden Structures & Small Business Operation
15:09 – Building the First Guitar: Lessons and Mistakes
16:18 – Iterative Process and Early Commissions
19:07 – Mindset: Believing in Yourself & Learning by Doing
21:56 – Importance of Community & Support Systems
23:04 – Starting and Growing CRC Guitars: Business Vision
24:06 – Scaling Up: Tools, CNC Machines, and Production
25:54 – Guitar Design Process and Ergonomics
28:23 – Models, Customization, and Customer Requests
29:01 – Challenges: Learning, Patience & Passion
30:41 – The Viral Reel: Social Media Growth
31:40 – Wood Types: Flame Maple & Burl Explained
32:37 – Onboarding New Customers: The Custom Build Process
34:13 – Building for Artists & Special Projects
36:10 – Legacy & The Joy of Watching Guitars Played Live
40:36 – Future Plans: YouTube Channel & Educational Content
44:24 – Purpose: Music, Passion, and Connection
50:15 – Where to Find CRC Guitars

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to nurture creativity
How to find self driven learning
How to build custom guitars with your hands
How to face challenges with technical mastery
How to use a manual skill to make something with passion
How to use social media to market a business
How to use a passion to build a business

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Cory:

How to Reclaim Your Identity: Breaking Free from External Expectations and Shaping Your Narrative | E30

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500

A thought that I had recently inspired this episode. The concept of choosing what we are known by others. Connecting with people who have recently resonated with my journey, has brought me to the realization that we have the ability to shape our own narrative. From transitioning out of a corporate job to pursuing more meaningful work, to doing more music projects, I reflect on how my decisions and authenticity have impacted how I am perceived by those around me. It's my second solo episode, and I'm still working through the uncomfortableness of it. Thanks for listening!

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:33 – Reflections & Listener Connections
01:13 – Choosing What You’re Known For
02:17 – Sharing Your Story and Connecting with Others
04:00 – Energy, Identity, and Deciding Your Narrative
04:54 – Listener Stories: Resonance and Impact
06:27 – How Honest Storytelling Inspires Others
07:04 – Validation, Confidence, and Finding Purpose
08:19 – The Power of Being Uncomfortable
09:19 – Music Passion
10:27 – Taking Action on Your Goals & Being Seen for Your Passions
11:29 – Self-Perception vs. Others’ Perception
12:13 – You Can Choose to Reinvent Yourself
12:59 – Closing Thoughts and How to Connect Further
13:48 – Closing

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to choose what you are known for
The power of deciding your identity
How to use vulnerability to foster genuine connection
How to invest your energy in your passions
How to push through the uncomfortable
How to seek more fulfillment
How to connect with others

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Build Rituals for Success: Finding Purpose Through Intentional Self-Care with Dimitri Cotman | E29

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

A business that was built during the pandemic to allow health care workers to have a little bit of self care.

Today I sit down with Dimitri Cotman, the founder of Zenith Point Candles, as he shares his inspiring story of building a successful business from the ground up. From the challenges of starting a new business without any prior business knowledge to the importance of community support and self-care, Dimitri's journey is a testament to the power of determination and purpose. Join me as we delve into Dimitri's entrepreneurial endeavors, his passion for creating high-quality products, and the meaningful impact his business has had on his community. Get ready to be inspired by Dimitri's perseverance, personality, and insight into the world of entrepreneurship.

Bio:
Dimitri Cotman was raised New Haven, CT in a home where education and church were prioritized. His parents instilled in him the importance of excelling in school and attending church regularly. Dimitri also grew up with his grandfather and spent a lot of time in a homeless shelter supporting his community. From an early age he used his personality to brighten peoples days and make connections. A skill that he took with him when he started his own business Z.Nith Point Candles, where he hand crafts candles, body butters, bath balms, and room sprays.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:33 – Meet Dimitri Cotman: Founder of Zenith Point Candle
01:12 – Early Life, Education, and Family Influence
04:01 – High School & College Journey: Facing Challenges and Growth
07:38 – Exploring Nursing and Healthcare Inspiration
09:52 – Starting Zenith Point Candle: From Hobby to Business
13:53 – Growth, Self-Care Inspiration & Product Line Expansion
16:19 – Finding the Right Price: Transforming Hobbies Into Business
19:05 – Creating Candle Scents & Expanding Product Lines
21:03 – The Collab Program: Learning and Building Community
25:21 – The Importance of Community Support in Business
29:07 – Overcoming the Challenge of Selling & Vending
32:11 – Getting Into Retail Stores: The Wholesale Journey
37:38 – Biggest Challenges in Launching a Small Business
41:12 – Defining Purpose: Personal Reflections on Mission & Meaning
42:46 – Where to Buy Zenith Point Products & Connect with Dimitri
43:28 – Closing Thoughts & Gratitude

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to build a small business
How to turn a skill into a business
How to join community for support
How to self care as a business owner
How to navigate business challenges
How to get product into a retail store
How to find meaning by helping community

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Dimitri:

How to Optimize Your Brain Health: Using Functional Mushrooms for Focus and Clarity with Patrick Blanchette | E28

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

From selling insurance to learning how to grow mushrooms, Patrick Blanchette has found purpose in his work. He is founder of Union City Farms, a gourmet mushroom farm. After I read an article online where Patrick was quoted in saying, ”I could literally do my entire job without thinking” I knew I had to reach out and have him on the podcast. We talked about how he found meditation which led him to leaving his career in insurance and finding purpose in growing mushrooms. Patrick emphasizes the negative impact of processed food and chemicals on our collective consciousness and shares how changing our diet can improve sustainability and well-being. He also delves into the healing properties of psilocybin mushrooms, the importance ignoring negative thoughts, and the expansion of his mushroom shop. In this episode we explore the power of purpose, holistic living, and the positive impact of following one's heart.

Bio: Born as a twin, Patrick Blanchette has always been competitive, leading him to a career in sales. He started off selling Kirby vacuum cleaners, which gave him valuable experience in talking to people and learning sales. This led him to explore different sales options, eventually landing him in the insurance industry. While it was fun at first, Blanchette started asking the bigger questions in life like why are we here, and what is our purpose. That led him to believe selling insurance wasn't his reason for being here. That's when he quit and started looking for his purpose. He found it in mushroom farming and opened Union City Farms, a grower of gourmet mushrooms.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:34 – From Insurance Industry to Mushroom Farmer
01:10 – Early Life, Home Life, and Path to Insurance
02:11 – The Challenges and Successes in Insurance Sales
03:39 – Why Patrick Left His Insurance Career for Purposeful Living
04:31 – Discovering Mindfulness, Meditation, and Spiritual Growth
05:26 – Using Meditation for Personal Transformation and Business Growth
07:02 – Making the Leap: Transitioning from Career to Farming
09:52 – Facing Fears and Embracing Change
12:23 – The Power of Alone Time, Meditation, and Following Your Heart
16:22 – Why Mushrooms? Choosing a Niche for Sustainable Agriculture
20:46 – Building Union City Farm and Exploring Mushroom Varieties
25:19 – Lifelong Learning: Reading, Documentaries, and Growth
28:01 – Reflections on Education, Learning, and Personal Passion
29:44 – What to Expect at Union City Farm’s Storefront
31:38 – Farmers Markets, Community, and Future Expansion Plans
33:10 – The Health Benefits of Mushrooms and Cooking Inspiration
36:51 – Defining Purpose & Spreading Love Through Food
38:06 – Psychedelics, Healing, and the Future of Mushrooms
40:26 – How to Visit and Connect with Union City Farm
41:06 – Closing

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to change your career
How to overcome the fear of change
How to pursue passion over profit
How to start a sustainable farming business
How to benefit health from eating mushrooms
How to intentionally live
How to know where your food comes from
How to use meditation to make better decisions

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Book recommendations
Dr. Joe Dispenza - Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One
Pema Chödrön - Taking the Leap: Freeing Ourselves from Old Habits and Fears

Connect with Patrick:

How to Master Your Mindset: Using Meditation for Purpose and Resilience with Kobéy Smith | E27

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Are you someone who think's they can't meditate? If you are, you better tune in to this episode with Kobéy Smith. As someone who used to believe the same, Kobéy might just be the guy to get you to rethink what meditation is. We talked about the stigma of what people think it is, and what it actualy can be. We also discuss his entrepreneurial journey and the power of failing and pivoting and not giving up. Lastly Kobéy is a podcaster too, and we both agreed on the importance of authenticity in the podcasting world.

Bio: Kobéy Smith is a certified meditation instructor, mental health advocate, and small business support specialist with the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. Whether it's through his expertise in mental health or business, Kobéy is dedicated to using his skills to advance the well-being of those around him. As the founder of Kobéy Enterprises, he is always evolving his business and he learns and grows. Kobéy is also a podcaster, his show Chattin' with Kobéy can be found on all streaming platforms.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
00:55 Kobey Smith's Background and Motivations
02:22 Early Life, School Experiences, and Influences
06:24 Discovering Meditation & Mental Health Journey
10:41 Meditation Advice for Beginners
14:08 Self-Care and Wellness for Entrepreneurs
17:45 The Story Behind Kobey Enterprises
24:38 Supporting Local Business Through the Chamber of Commerce
30:48 Starting "Chatting with Kobe" Podcast
35:09 Challenges & Authenticity in Podcasting
40:09 Defining Purpose & Giving Back
44:53 What's Next for Kobey and How to Connect
47:03 Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to picot in business
How to use meditation to overcome anxiety
How to use mindfulness practices everyday
How to break the stigma of mental health struggle
How to have self care for entrepreneurs
How to get involved with your chamber of commerce
How to network with purpose
How to cultivate a growth mindset

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Kobéy:

Building a Movement: How to Create Community Through Yoga and Wellness with Allie O’Kane | E26

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

This summer, the powder ridge mountain of Connecticut will be the home of the first annual Transcend yoga and wellness Festival, and today I sat down with Allie O'kane, the creator and founder of this amazing event. Allie shares her inspiring story of pursuing her passion for yoga, holistic healing, and above all helping others. She discusses the challenges of balancing a 9to5 job with her endeavors, her journey with different types of yoga, and bringing her vision for the Transcend Fest to life. Join me as we delve into Allie's transformative journey and learn how she is working towards her purpose.

Bio: Allie O'kane is a certified yoga teacher with a passion for holistic healing. After completing her 200-hour training in Vinyasa and power yoga, she went on to gain certifications in reiki and crystal healing. Allie discovered Kundalini yoga and found it to be the perfect fit for her teaching style. Now certified at 500 hours, she focuses on teaching Kundalini yoga and offering astrology readings, crystal healing, and reiki. Always eager to expand her knowledge, Allie continues to seek out new certifications and opportunities for growth in her practice.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction
01:10 - Allie’s Background: Childhood, Education & First Steps
02:27 - Navigating College, Early Career, and Discovering Yoga
04:31 - Love of Movement: Cheerleading, Yoga, and First Experiences
06:25 - Tips for Beginners Starting Yoga
07:27 - What Is Kundalini Yoga?
08:47 - Moving Energy, Flexibility & Mindset in Yoga
09:35 - Allie’s Journey into Reiki & Crystal Healing
11:20 - Real Results of Energy Healing
12:10 - Exploring Astrology and Allie’s Approach
13:35 - Planetary Herbalism & Medical Astrology
14:57 - Transcend Fest: What Is It & How It Began
16:21 - Classes, Lectures & Unique Offerings at Transcend Fest
17:36 - Building Festival, Teamwork & Teacher Community
20:57 - Community Impact & Welcoming Newcomers
21:31 - Circles, Support Spaces, and Novel Experiences
22:24 - Logistical Challenges: Building the Festival & Future Plans
24:35 - Purpose: What Does It Mean To Allie?
26:42 - Finding True Calling: The Kundalini Shift
28:04 - How to Join Allie’s Yoga Courses
29:30 - Private Instagram Community & Virtual Classes
32:36 - Looking Ahead: Festivals & Goals for 2024
33:20 - Final thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to discover purpose through wellness
How to create a yoga festival in Connecticut
How to integrate astrology in holistic wellness
How to build community and connection
How to make yoga accessible to beginners
How to find and live your purpose

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Allie:

How to Redefine Success: Lessons on Embracing Authenticity and Finding Your Purpose | E25

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 01 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Today I reflect on the one year anniversary of the podcast and the 3rd year anniversary of me deciding to leave the corporate life. I talk a little bit about my journey of entrepreneurial challenges, redefining how my business serves me, and how embracing my authenticity will lead me to my next step. In this shorter episode I take an introspective dive into my own path towards purpose.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:56 – Podcast Anniversary Reflections
01:39 – Quitting Corporate & Life Changes
01:54 – Celebrating Milestones & Personal Growth
02:41 – The Realities of Running Pleasant Podcasts
04:32 – The Entrepreneurial Journey & Lessons Learned
05:07 – Finding Fulfillment in Part-Time Work
06:39 – Rethinking What Work & Purpose Mean
08:07 – Redefining Pleasant Podcasts & Future Direction
10:18 – Being Open to New Opportunities
11:35 – Embracing Authenticity & Helping Others
12:57 – Looking Ahead: Goals for the Podcast & Substack
13:42 – Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to leave a corporate job for fulfillment
How to build a meaningful business
How to balance work, life, and income
How to redefine success
How to use failure to learn
How to value authenticity
How to evolve a business

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Leave a Successful Career for Your True Calling: Finding Purpose with Genevieve Piturro | E24

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode I spoke with author, speaker, founder of the nonprofit Pajama Program, and someone who was featured on Oprah, Genevieve Piturro. I was so inspired by her book Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas, that I had to have her on the podcast. We had such an inspiring discussion I'm really excited to share this episode. Genevieve takes us on a journey from her traditional Italian upbringing to her successful corporate career and ultimately to the moment of realization that led her to create a lasting impact through following her heart and leaving behind a successful career. We explore the power of following one's passions and uncovering one's purpose, the impact of trusting the process, and the importance of finding support from your people. Listen as Genevieve shares her wisdom and experiences, inviting us to reflect on discovering our own unique purpose and inspiring change, no matter how daunting it may seem.

Genevieve Piturro was born into a loving Italian-American family, where she felt the pressure to uphold traditions. However, she had a different calling in life. After working in a successful corporate career, Genevieve had an encounter with a group of children living in a homeless shelter, which changed the trajectory of her life. She founded the non-profit organization "Pajama Program," which provides new pajamas and books to children in need. She has since dedicated her life to helping those less fortunate. Genevieve's story is a testament to following one's passion and making a difference in the world.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
00:55 Genevieve’s Early Life and Italian Family Traditions
02:55 Building a Corporate Career and Listening to the Heart’s Voice
04:00 First Experiences with Children in Shelters
05:58 The Birth of Pajama Program
07:05 Heart vs. Head: Making Purpose-Driven Decisions
10:01 Balancing Corporate Life with a Calling
13:03 Finding Support and Facing Skepticism
15:07 The Moment Genevieve Left Corporate for Purpose
18:00 Embracing “Selfishness” for Positive Impact
20:18 Sharing Purpose and Inspiring Others to Change
22:28 Advice for Starting on Your Purpose Path (“Jumper” vs. “Slider”)
25:23 The Power of Human Connection
27:27 Purpose, Legacy, and The Power of One Another
28:42 Trust, Coincidence, and Manifesting Purpose
31:25 Vision Boards, Meditation, and Getting on Oprah
34:17 Key Books and Resources That Influenced Genevieve
37:54 What’s Next: Speaking Engagements & Spreading Inspiration
39:32 What Does Purpose Mean to You?
42:32 Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to listen to your heart over your head
How to go from a corporate career to starting a nonprofit
How to harness the power of human connection
How to overcome fear and self doubt
How to manifest with a vision board
How to make a change
How to be honest and self reflect
How to evolve your purpose through curiosity

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Genevieve:

Genevieve's Book: Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas
Pajama Program
Genevieve's website
Follow Genevieve on IG
Watch Genevieve on Oprah
Exercise to find your purpose

How to Manage Stress Naturally: CBD, Nutrition, and Holistic Wellness with Alex Angeloff | E23

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In today's episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I sat down with Alex Angeloff, owner of Remedy Co and The Cultured Cafe. Alex shares his journey from a background in drug dealing and spending time in prison to founding a craft CBD company, and later opening a cafe that specializes in fermented foods. We talk about personal growth, healthy eating, and the impact of aligning values with actions. Join me for an insightful and inspiring conversation as we delve into Alex's path to purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

Alex Angeloff grew up in Westville in New Haven and comes from a long line of pharmacists. He bounced around from college to college before finally deciding to quit attending and going all in on his CBD business. He now has multiple employees that help him run his CDB store in Wallingford and his health cafe in New Haven.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
00:54 Alex’s Upbringing and Early Influences
04:56 School, Creativity, and Skepticism of the Medical System
07:36 Arrest, Incarceration, and Growth Mindset
11:55 Managing Mindset in Adverse Situations
16:41 Aligning Work with Personal Values
18:07 Life After Incarceration & The Road to Entrepreneurship
20:51 Discovering CBD and Starting The Remedy Co.
24:36 Building the Business & Overcoming Hurdles
26:08 Going Full-Time with The Remedy Co
29:12 Opening a Physical Storefront
32:46 Hiring & Transitioning to a Team
32:55 The Idea and Vision Behind The Cultured Cafe
36:44 Food Philosophy & What Makes the Cafe Different
41:02 Sourcing, Nutrition, and Food Transparency
42:17 Authenticity in Business & Social Media Approach
48:02 Where to Find Alex & His Businesses
50:47 Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to grow a passion into a business
How to overcome adversity of being incarcerated
How to build a purpose driven business
How to have a commitment to authenticity
How to scale a small business
How to have action over paralysis

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Alex:

Breaking Free from the 9to5: How to Design an Authentic Life and Career with Chelsea Paquin | E22

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose I talk to my friend Chelsea Paquin about journey from finding her footing in various marketing career paths, to navigating the challenges of van life, to embracing her passion for astrology. Chelsea reflects on her transition from traditional employment to freelancing after getting fired from a job. She also talks about her experiences living in a van with her boyfriend for the past 4 years, and her deepening interest in astrology. We explore the importance of being open-minded and the impact astrology has had on our personal growth. We discuss Chelsea's podcast "The Moon in Your Mind" and how she is transitioning from doing it with a cohost to going solo. Chelsea gives various 1:1 astrology readings and has just opened up her very own membership! Links below!

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
00:47 Chelsea Paquin
01:59 The Journey Into Van Life
03:36 Transitioning Careers and Freelancing
07:12 Early Career: College and First Marketing Jobs
10:28 Moving for Work and Adjusting to New Places
12:10 Freelancing, Remote Work, and Upwork Experiences
16:16 Working for a Small Remote Company
18:57 Balancing Passion and Day Jobs
21:21 Building and Living in the Van
25:12 Adjusting to Minimalism and Small Space Living
27:58 Van Life Community and Changes Over Time
30:35 Will Van Life Ever End?
34:48 Problem Solving and Life Lessons from Van Living
35:02 Starting With Astrology
37:24 Changing Perspectives on Astrology
41:41 Astrology as Guidance and Personal Growth
43:12 Launching The Moon in Your Mind Podcast
45:32 The Future of the Podcast and Creative Freedom
49:37 Where to Follow Chelsea and Wrap Up

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to transition to living in a van
How to overcome setbacks to finding your purpose
How to build skills that transfer
How to actually live in a van
How to start a podcast with your friend
How to get into astrology
How to leverage side gigs to pursue multiple passions
How to be achieve personal development with open-mindedness

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Chelsea:

How to Trust Your Intuition: Overcoming External Expectations and Finding Your Purpose with Derek Okley | E21

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Derek Okley is an educator, business strategist, coach, and author who uses podcasting as a means to empower individuals and showcase the incredible work being done by ordinary people in their communities. He was initially inspired to pursue a career in education after witnessing the positive impact of his mentor in the special education department at a school in Brooklyn. This led him to work in a dropout prevention program where he absorbed valuable lessons and experiences. Seeking new challenges, Derek ventured into applying the knowledge he had acquired and spent several years teaching in East New York, Brooklyn.

In this episode Derek shares his journey of following intuition, embracing change, and finding success in unexpected places. Derek let's his curiosity lead him to making connections that lead him to finding her purpose. He got into podcasting in the early days, and now teaches kids to podcast. We talk about so many different things in this episode, but most of all I appreciate Derek's energy and motivational way of speaking. Tune in to hear his whole story and all of the wisdom he shares!

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:54 – Background and early career in education
02:07 – Lessons learned and pivotal career moments
06:09 – Childhood interests and creativity through sewing
08:26 – The role of curiosity and following intuition
14:54 – Transitioning from corporate jobs to purposeful work
24:41 – Navigating change and alignment in career choices
28:24 – The importance of community, networking, and authentic connections
37:29 – Launching Behind the Wheel Podcast and embracing new media
41:59 – Coaching, storytelling, and helping others with podcasting
45:11 – Closing thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to make a career transition
How to follow your intuition
How to lead with curiosity
How to have authentic storytelling
How to use a podcast
How to network with your local community
How to align values and work
How to have effective communication in business

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Derek:

Derek's website
Follow Derek on IG
Behind the Wheel Podcast
Download Derek's Book "Mine Ur Own Business"

How to Monetize Your Creativity: A Guide to Artistic Entrepreneurship with Raheem Nelson | E20

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 07:36:44 -0400

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with my friend Raheem Nelson, a talented artist and entrepreneur from New Haven. Raheem takes us through his artistic journey, from his early days as a cartoonist and illustrator all the way to having his art featured in Time Square in NYC. Join us as we explore Raheem's experiences with finding sustainable income as an artist, the power of having a job for financial support, and not being afraid to try new things. Get ready to be inspired as we uncover the secrets of creativity, entrepreneurship, and fulfilling your purpose in life!

Raheem Nelson is a New Haven-born and raised artist who discovered his passion for art at an early age. Growing up with a love for comic books and cartoons, he began creating his own comics during grade school. As he entered high school at Aces ECA on Audubon Street, his artistic abilities started to flourish, especially in the areas of oils and life drawing. This led him to further his education at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where he focused on cartooning but found that oil painting had the most significant impact on him. During his foundation year at college, he had the opportunity to explore various art forms, just like at ECA, and it was during the oil painting courses that he truly honed his skills and developed a familiarity with working on canvas. Now, Raheem creates his art digitally using his iPad and takes pride in incorporating his New Haven roots into his work, showcasing his unique perspective as an artist.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Meet Raheem Nelson
01:21 – Raheem’s Artistic Journey: From New Haven to NYC
03:43 – Deciding on Art School & Early Influences
05:10 – Returning to New Haven and Building a Career
07:27 – Life After College: Finding Work as an Artist
10:46 – Balancing Day Jobs and Creativity
13:08 – Landing a Purpose-Aligned Job at Milford Arts Council
16:12 – What is Graphic Recording?
18:04 – How Raheem Started with Graphic Recording
21:56 – The Power of Social Listening Murals & Community Engagement
24:27 – Embracing NFTs as an Artist
27:03 – The Story Behind the Solange Painting & NFT NYC
32:59 – The Value of Trying New Things and Entrepreneurial Spirit
39:13 – Transferable Skills and How Comic Books Influence Raheem’s Work
40:08 – Defining Purpose and Aligning Happiness with Work
42:22 – What’s Next for Raheem & How to Support His Work
43:54 – Closing

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to use your community in your art
How to build an art career
How to balance creativity with financial stability
How to cultivate business skills as an artist
How to get funding through grants
How to find opportunities through community
How to define purpose and alignment

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Raheem:

Raheem's website
Follow Raheem on IG Arts page & Fashion Page
Follow Milford Arts Council

How to Build Resilience in a New Business: Overcoming the Mental Challenges of Entrepreneurship with Dave Phelan | E19

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Today my guest Dave Phelan shares his entrepreneur journey from working in the corporate world, to starting his own startup app, to pivoting to a successful consulting business. Dave is an entrepreneur who grew up outside Philadelphia and studied business at Susquehanna University. After college, he started working at an engineering firm but always had a desire to start his own business. Together with his college friend Phil, they came up with the idea for an app called Loople. The app aimed to provide users with information about daily specials offered by bars and restaurants. They left their day jobs to focus on building the app, which gained over 50,000 users, but after two years the app didn't achieve their desired monetization goals, so they decided to pivot in a new direction.

Dave and his partner Phil used what they learned developing their own app to help other small businesses do the same. Founders Approach combines US-based project managers & talented global developers to bring businesses ideas to life without compromising on quality or value. Dave also opens up about the difficulties of quitting his job and the extreme highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Join us as we dive deep into Dave's inspiring story and uncover the lessons he learned along the way.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
01:08 – Dave’s background: growing up, college, and first steps in business
03:05 – How Dave got into app building and founding Loople
05:38 – Overcoming challenges without a tech background
07:43 – Transitioning from corporate to startup life: struggles and excitement
11:05 – The importance of having a co-founder and support system
13:01 – Working with friends as business partners: lessons learned
17:10 – The pivot from Loople to Founders Approach
20:07 – Letting go of a failed idea and finding new direction
22:24 – Client acquisition and the power of networking
26:20 – Starting the podcast "Why I Quit": inspiration and impact
31:07 – Defining success as an entrepreneur
34:28 – Current business challenges and the quest for sustainability
36:58 – Excitement for the future and new entrepreneurial ventures
38:30 – Closing thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to startup an app
How to build a business with a partner
How to pivot and grow a sustainable business
How to define your own success as an entrepreneur
How to get word of mouth clients and referrals
How to connect entrepreneurs

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with The Dave:

Founder Approach
Listen to his podcast Why I Quit (listen to the episode I was on!!)
Connect with Dave on LinkedIn

Building an Unconventional Business: How to Take Risks and Define Your Own Success with Dan Barletta | E18

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 08:49:26 -0400

Dan Barletta is one of the founders and owners of the mobile cafe, The Jitter Bus. Serving the New Haven community for almost 8 years now, the blacked out bus with artwork on it is a familiar site to locals. An idea that came from witnessing a ice cream truck and a love for coffee, The Jitter Bus started out as a simple idea. Through some hard work, perseverance, and learning some hard lessons, The Jitter Bus has become a staple downtown New Haven.

In this episode we talk about Dan's struggle with college and how a coffee shop on wheels gave him a purpose. We discuss what it was like to bring the idea to fruition, how they survived the pandemic, and their future plans of expanding to a brick and mortar coffee shop. We covered a lot in this episode but what I didn't mention was how good their dirty chai lattes are. If you've never had coffee from The Jitter Bus, you need to go check them out!

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
00:56 Dan’s Background: Growing Up & College Experience
02:39 Discovering Coffee Shops & Early Work Experiences
05:08 The Birth of the Jitterbus Idea
6:28 Starting the Business & Launching Kickstarter
07:25 Choosing a Bus & The Build-Out Process
08:58 Forming the Partnership & Business Planning
10:29 Navigating City Regulations & Finding a Location
11:29 The First Year in Business: Challenges & Lessons Learned
13:43 Building a Following & Early Marketing Efforts
16:47 Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic
19:56 Returning to Business: Recovery & Student Impact
21:28 Adapting to Seasonal Shifts & Event Work
22:20 The Farmers Market Opportunity
24:45 Seven Years in Business – Reflections & Growth
25:33 Making the Leap: Going Full-Time with Jitterbus
27:19 Plans for the Future: Brick & Mortar Dreams
28:38 Finding Support & Resources: Small Business Development
32:31 Real Estate in New Haven & Finding the Right Location
33:13 Dan’s Role in Business Finances
34:18 Hiring, Company Culture & Looking Ahead
36:03 Defining Success & Finding Purpose
39:16 Where to Find the Jitterbus & Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to start an unconventional business
How to define your own success
How to overcome the challenges of entrepreneurship
How to build a brick and mortar coffee shop
How to run a business with your friends

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with The Jitter Bus:

The bus can be found on corner of Hillhouse Ave. and Grove St. in downtown New Haven M-F and the Wooster Sq. farmers markets Sat mornings
Follow The Jitter Bus on IG
thejitterbus.com

The Psychology of Connection: Why Vulnerability is the Key to Authentic Success with Karolyn Johnson | E17

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 06:00:00 -0400

Karolyn Johnson is a devoted mother and passionate therapist. Despite not having a background in psychology, she made the bold decision to pursue a career in therapy after accepting her people person superpower. I met Karolyn a few years back when she was looking for someone to edit her new podcast and have had the opportunity to work with her ever since. She believes in staying curious and invested in life, constantly evolving and learning. Alongside her partner Raya, she owns a group practice called Connected, Seen, & Heard which aims to create authentic connections and foster transformative experiences for individuals looking for healing and growth. Through their practice, they offer individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as in-person workshops, trainings, and events to bring people together with genuine connection.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
00:34 Background and Journey Into Therapy
04:00 Transitioning from Sales to Therapy: Taking the Leap
07:36 Facing Fears and Making Career Changes
10:17 Head vs. Heart: Making Authentic Decisions
14:05 Finding Authenticity in Career and Life
18:18 Building a Business With a Partner: Trust & Growth
23:20 The Value of Passion Projects and Working With a Business Coach
28:15 The Power of Connection: Why It Matters
32:02 Vulnerability and Connection: How They Relate
36:18 Creating and Participating in Community
41:01 What’s Next for Karolyn & Connected Seen and Heard
43:19 How to Connect With Karolyn & Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to find purpose in career transitions
How to find authentic connections
How to overcome fear and pursue passion
How to be vulnerable
How to collaborate instead of compete
How to build a business around human connection
How to engage the community

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Karolyn:
Connected seen and heard website
Connected Seen and Heard IG
Connecting the Collective Podcast

How to Network Without the Anxiety: Building Authentic Connections with Vanessa Moreno | E15

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0400

Today I sat down with Vannesa Moreno who was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia, moved to the United States when she was 14, and is now a business owner, a mom, and an active member of the local entrepreneur community of New haven. She owns Your CBD Store in North Haven, she's a Knownpreneur graduate, an active networker, and last year she was awarded the emerging leader for the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce.

Vanessa opened her own CBD store in North Haven over three and a half years ago, but before that worked as a sales administrator at a tire recycling company, where she experienced stress, anxiety, and panic attacks. Through the suggestion of a friend she discovered the benefits of CBD products for her own well-being, which led her down the path to an opportunity to open her very own store. She took the opportunity to open her own franchise when it came and has been growing as an entrepreneur ever since.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:59 – Vanesa's background
02:45 – Early career ambitions and how plans changed
07:12 – Leaving a full-time job for entrepreneurship
10:40 – The process of opening a CBD franchise and available resources
13:32 – The importance of asking for help as an entrepreneur
14:16 – How networking changed everything
17:49 – Advice for newcomers to networking and stepping out of your comfort zone
21:20 – CBD education: myths, facts, and how it supports mental health
24:05 – The role of therapy and mental health in entrepreneurship
26:46 – Continued learning as a business owner
28:58 – Defining success in life and business
30:55 – How to connect with
32:26 – Closing thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to transition from a corporate job to a business owner
How to break stereotypes as an immigrant
How to focus on mental health
How to network as an introvert
How to have a voice as a women in a male dominated space
How the CBD industry has changed
How to get support as a business owner

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Vannesa:

Connect with me:

Subscribe to my Substack
Follow me on IG
pleasantpodcasts.com
If you would like to start your own podcast you can download my free Podcast Launch Roadmap to help you get started

E15 A Quick Check-In

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 06 Jul 2023 08:06:46 -0400

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Kendall’s Background: Education, Early Career, and Transition to Startups
05:24 – Comparing Corporate vs. Startup Culture
10:23 – Marketing Roles Explained: Sales Support, Brand Building, and Digital Strategy
14:15 – Is Social Media Necessary for Every Business?
19:15 – Identifying Target Markets and Brand Identity for Small Businesses
21:20 – Copywriting: Art, Data, and Iteration in Messaging
24:44 – Refreshing Branding & The Role of AI and ChatGPT in Marketing
32:35 – Startup Skills vs. Corporate Specialization
33:18 – How Kendall Joined Box and the Early Days of the Startup
38:09 – Testing Models, Pricing, and Customer Segments at Box
41:55 – Balancing Data and Gut Feeling in Business Decisions
45:33 – How to Connect with Kendall and Box
46:16 – Episode Wrap-Up and Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to work in a startup and wear many hats
How to create effective marketing strategies
How to know your target audience
How to reach your audience with authentic marketing
How to use digital marketing
How to lean into data to make decisions
How to balance gut instincts with market research
How to build a company identity with brand foundations

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

How to Market Your Business Authentically: Navigating Personal Brand and Identity with Kendall Egan | EP 14

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Today I sat down with Kendall Egan co-founder of Boxx, a startup that creates pre-fab work from home pods. She has spent most of her career working in various aspects of marketing, including many startups, and owning her own marketing consulting agency. We got into the vast field of marketing and talked about what areas are important for small businesses and startups. This episode is like a mini masterclass in marketing. Kendall is an expert in her field and shared a lot of her knowledge with us. I will be taking some of the lessons learned back to my own business with a deeper understanding of what marketing is and can be.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Kendall Egan:

How to Find Purpose in the Pain: Overcoming Adversity and Healing Through Art with Saint Phifer | E13

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Saint Phifer is a unique abstract artist from Norwalk Connecticut that transforms simple concepts into meaningful saturated pieces of art that sparks the consciousness. Through his artwork you can learn the origin and history of the subject as well as about his inspiration and story. I met Saint recently at an art show here in New Haven where he was a panelist speaker and also displayed some of his work. I resonated with a lot of what he said and after the show we had a great conversation that led to this interview.

In this episode we talked about so many different things from how he first became an artist after struggling with his mental health to losing his corporate job which allowed him to further pursue his art and create everyday. You can tell by the way he explains his work that art is what he is meant to do and I got to learn more about his creative process, and his outlook on life in this interview.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction
03:01 - Incorporating family, culture, and storytelling into his art
04:08 - The influence of SAINT's mother and personal philosophy
06:27 - Exploring curiosity and creativity in art
08:44 - Shifting perspectives and remaining a lifelong student
10:07 - The dart vs. feather analogy for focus and decision making
11:39 - Leaving corporate life and finding true purpose
12:23 - Growing up different, finding confidence, and staying authentic
14:42 - SAINT discusses mental health and healing through creativity
17:37 - The benefits of meditation, solitude, and self-care
20:44 - The importance of saying no and staying focused
22:28 - SAINT’s approach to meditation and being present
24:58 - Selfishness as self-care and showing up as your best self
26:53 - Building artistic community and connecting with Wabi Gallery
29:11 - Networking vs. genuine conversation in the arts
32:34 - SAINT’s definition of success
34:51 - Valuing time, relationships, and saying no
36:28 - What’s next for SAINT and how to connect with him

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to turn pain into art
How to tell your story with art
How to use curiosity as a driver for creativity
How to redefine success
How to find your voice in art
How to incorporate self care into your work
How to keep creativity sustainable
How to support local artists

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Saint Phifer:

How to Find Balance and Reduce Stress Using Tai Chi with Shirley Chock | E12

Pleasant Podcasts — Fri, 26 May 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Today I spoke with Shirley Chock owner of Aiping Tai Chi School. Before being a business owner, she had a very successful career in finance working for startups, the city of New York, and at Yale University before walking away from her high profile job with a pension, benefits, and early retirement, to take over owning the Aiping Tai Chi School.

We talked about the importance of Tai Chi in her life and how it's much more than internal martial arts, but more of a way of being. Using it to help cope with stress and the ups and downs of life. Shirley has not only figured out how to run the tai chi school, but then also has figured out how to keep going when a global pandemic shut down her business completely. Instead of taking it at a loss, she used the opportunity of rest to figure out how to become even more impactful and reach a wider audience than she already had, by taking her classes to the Twitch platform, allowing her to monetize quickly and keep the school going. She became Twitch's first affiliate to stream international martial arts, quickly reached 55k followers on TikTok, and has over 100k on IG.

I'm really excited about this conversation as I resonated with so many things Shirley spoke about, but the one that stands out to me the most is when we were talking about the difference between passion and purpose. Shirley believes that we are here on this earth for a bigger purpose and it's up to us to figure out what that is. Listen along as we discuss all things live and business.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
01:30 – Shirley’s Early Career in Finance
07:11 – Discovering Tai Chi & Dual Passions
09:09 – Decision to Take Over the Tai Chi School
13:38 – Making the Leap: Leaving Finance for Tai Chi
18:08 – Entrepreneurship: Planning and Purpose vs. Passion
24:44 – Listening To Yourself & Tai Chi as a Secret Scroll
29:30 – Teaching Tai Chi & Building an Online Presence
34:04 – Content Creation Mindset Shift
41:15 – Growing a Global Community
44:26 – How to Connect with Shirley and What’s Next
46:27 – Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to make a career transition
How to follow your purpose and passion
How to make an exit strategy to leave corporate America
How to shift your mindset for success
How to engage an online community
How to grow an audience and brand online

🚀 Start Here If You’re New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Shirley:

The Psychology of Focus: How to Balance Multiple Businesses and Maintain Momentum with Michael Shawn Carbaugh | EP 11

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 11 May 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Today I sat down with Michael Shawn Carbaugh, who is a dedicated pastor, talented musician, and successful entrepreneur who understands the power of Community. He graduated with a degree in music and a minor in bible study. Michael embarked on a unique journey that combined his passions for music, ministry, and community building. As a pastor at Pond Hill Baptist Church, he takes on various roles, including leading music programs and working with young adults. Michael's entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found Unison Games Cafe located in Hamden, CT, a welcoming space where people come together to enjoy games, coffee, and community.

We also talked about his new multi-use studio space in the works, that is going to include podcast, music, and lessons studio spaces! We covered so many topics from the importance of time management in entrepreneurship, to getting a deal on your rent, to some advice on what it takes to have a business partner.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Michael Shawn Carabaugh
00:54 – Michael’s Background: Education and Music Journey
05:16 – Launching Unison Games Cafe: From Community to Brick & Mortar
08:50 – The Challenges and Process of Opening a Physical Store
11:57 – Going Into Business with a Partner: Communication & Trust
15:41 – Balancing Multiple Ventures and Time Management Strategies
20:00 – The Importance of Focus, Flow State, and Avoiding Distractions
25:46 – Introduction to Unison Studios: Vision for a Multiuse Space
32:30 – Finding the Right Space and Mutually Beneficial Agreements
33:45 – What Does Purpose Mean to Michael? Community, Faith & Impact
37:01 – What’s Next? How to Support Michael’s Ventures
38:29 – Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to balance creativity with being a pastor
How to turn a love into a business
How to manage your time and still be productive
How to get into a creative flow state
How to run a business with a partner
How to build community
How to find purpose
How to build something new

🚀 Start Here If You're New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Michael Shawn:

How to Set Boundaries and Stop People Pleasing: A Guide to Recovery with Barb Nangle | EP 10

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0400

This week I talked with Barb Nangle, a boundaries coach and founder of Higher Power Coaching. She's also a podcaster and her podcast, Fragmented to Whole, is about incorporating lessens she's learned in 12 step recovery. We covered a lot in this episode from how boundaries can affect all areas of your life, to how she started her coaching business, to managing her time as a solopreneur.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:32 – Barb Nangle’s Background and Journey to Recovery
07:05 – Transition to Entrepreneurship and Coaching
08:21 – How Barb Got Started as a Life Coach
14:02 – Specializing as a Boundaries Coach and Building Her Curriculum
16:13 – Managing Solopreneurship: Delegation and Productivity Techniques
21:25 – Empowering Others to Live On Purpose
27:13 – The Importance of Setting Boundaries With Yourself
33:44 – Overview of Recovery Programs and Reparenting
42:24 – How to Work With Barb Nangle & Closing Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to stop seeking the validation of others
How to stop people pleasing
How to set healthy boundaries
How to live life intentionally and in alignment with personal values
How to build a coaching business
How to set boundaries with your internal critic
How to use lessons from 12-step recovery for self growth

🚀 Start Here If You're New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Barb:

Building Resilience in Business: How to Manage Stress and Uncertainty with Trevor Huffard | E9

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 07:00:00 -0400

In this episode I talked with Trevor Huffard co-founder of Boxx, a startup that builds energy-efficient prefab work-from-home pods and studios for backyard installation. The conversation covers remote work solutions, startup experiences, and advice for anyone looking to transition from a corporate job to an entrepreneurial venture. Listeners will get insights on work-life balance, sustainable building practices, and tips for growing a successful business in the rapidly expanding remote work market.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro
00:33 – Introducing Trevor Huffard and Boxx
00:51 – Trevor’s First Impressions and Starting Boxx
01:07 – What is Boxx? The Idea and Product
03:02 – Market Landscape and First Sales
05:27 – Trevor’s Education and Early Career
07:23 – Transitioning from Finance to Building
09:20 – Ventures in Modular and Prefab Housing
10:39 – Automation, Technology, and the Future of Box
11:31 – Leveraging Skills from Past Careers
13:11 – Finding Purpose Working with Hands
15:04 – Life Inside Startups: Creativity and Challenges
16:17 – Defining Success in Startups
17:05 – Riding the Highs and Lows of Entrepreneurship
19:20 – The Stability of Investment Banking vs Startups
20:13 – Unique Challenges Starting Boxx During the Pandemic
22:00 – Building the Team and Finding Co-Founders
23:25 – Delegating, Trust, and Collaboration
25:59 – Advice for Starting Your Own Business
27:32 – Mentors, Trades, and Learning from Others
29:57 – Hiring the Right People
31:21 – Supporting Employees for Success
34:01 – The Future Vision for Boxx
36:01 – Hybrid Work, Community, and Environmental Impact
37:12 – Where to Find Boxx and Final Thoughts

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to transition from corporate to startup culture
How to be adaptable when working in a startup
How to build a company from the ground up
How to weigh risk and financial stability
How to hire the right person
How to scale up and market your business

🚀 Start Here If You're New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Trevor:

Visit Boxx Website
Follow Boxx on IG

Leaving the Corporate World: How to Redefine Your Identity and Success with Mike Cordone | E8

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 10:02:01 -0400

In this episode I sat down with my twin brother Mike and talked to him about about his recent decision to leave his corporate engineering job in New York City to pursue a more fulfilling career in photography. We discuss finding your purpose, the challenges of switching careers, and the importance of balancing passion projects with making a living. Michael Cordone shares insights on building a creative business, overcoming burnout, and why intentionally designing your life matters more than just climbing the corporate ladder. This episode is perfect for anyone searching for meaningful work, exploring entrepreneurship, or looking for inspiration to take the next step toward their true purpose.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:53 – Meet My Twin Brother
01:20 – Discovering Photography & Corporate Burnout
03:12 – Starting a Photography Business
04:16 – Multiple Income Streams in Photography
06:01 – Balancing Passion Projects and Making Money
07:01 – Choosing Engineering: Reflections on College & Career Choices
10:18 – The Influence of Family and Following the Expected Path
13:25 – The Impact of Life Events & COVID on Career Decisions
15:29 – Corporate Culture: Early Work Experiences
18:39 – The Decision to Leave Corporate for Photography
21:40 – Prioritizing Life Over Work: Loss, Values & Taking the Leap
24:10 – Mindset, Failure, and Unlearning Corporate Habits
27:14 – Transitioning to Self-Employment: Challenges & Time Management
30:32 – The Importance of Self-Growth and Learning
36:38 – What Excites Michael: Building Connections & The Value of Photography
43:31 – What’s Next & How to Connect with Michael
44:27 – Closing

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to quit your corporate job
How to make a career change and make the leap
How overcome corporate mindsets
How to diversify income with a photography business
How to make a career decision
How to value human connection in photography
How to overcome fear of failure in a career change
How to make steps to build a business

🚀 Start Here If You're New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Mike:

How Developing Curiosity Can Stop Your Self-Sabotage with Alyssa Rae | E7

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 08:26:40 -0400

In this episode I talk to Alyssa Rae, a podcast host, therapist, and yoga teacher. Alyssa shares her journey as a therapist, recovery coach, and podcast co-host, highlighting the importance of somatic practices, setting boundaries, and exploring alternative healing like micro dosing and astrology. Listeners will discover actionable insights on living authentically, cultivating curiosity, and creating a work-life balance aligned with personal passions. Tune in for inspiring stories on building a meaningful career and practical tips for mental wellness.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Welcome, Introductions & Alyssa’s Background
01:08 – Alyssa’s Work, Projects & Weekly Schedule
02:05 – Autonomy, Creating Your Own Schedule & Personal Growth
04:45 – Alyssa’s Experiences With Jobs That Didn’t Align
06:47 – Finding the Right Fit & Supportive Leadership
08:01 – How Alyssa Became a Virtual Assistant for Therapists
10:10 – Discovering New Paths & Creativity Through Freelancing
11:21 – The Importance of Staying Curious
13:13 – Practical Ways to Cultivate Curiosity When Stuck
15:31 – Exploring Somatic Practices in Therapy
18:15 – The Power of Collaboration & Building With Others
21:09 – Alternative Healing: Astrology, Micro dosing, and Spirituality
23:34 – Intentional Micro dosing & the Importance of Set and Setting
26:18 – Psychedelics, Therapy, and Ram Dass
28:56 – Michael Pollan & Personal Journeys With Psychedelics
33:00 – What Excites Alyssa Today & Living an Intentional Life
35:36 – What’s Next for Alyssa & How to Connect

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to create a fulfilling, purpose driven career in mental health
How to balance work and life
How to use somatic mind body connections to heal
How to start a podcast with your friend
How to stay curious
How to start with micro dosing
How to live authentically and create a life you love

🚀 Start Here If You're New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

How to Change Your Mind - Michael Pollan

Connect with Alyssa:

Listen to Alyssa's podcast The Moon and Your Mind
Alyssa's Consulting Offerings
Follow Alyssa on Instagram

How Your Personal Style Impacts Your Confidence: Dressing Authentically with Tea Montgomery | E6

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0500

In todays episode I talk to Tea Montgomery owner of Threads by Tea, a custom wearable art, clothing business with the mission to inspire and empower. The discussion dives into the journey of building a purpose-driven business, the importance of community support, and strategies for balancing growth with personal fulfillment. If you're looking for inspiration to follow your passion, unlock creative entrepreneurship, and learn how to turn your "why" into a thriving lifestyle brand, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Discover tips on scaling your creative business and the power of affirmation and visionary thinking in entrepreneurship.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:32 – Meet Tea Montgomery: Artist, Entrepreneur & Threads by Tea
01:16 – Tea’s Roots, Frustrations with Fashion, and Starting a Brand
03:01 – Outgrowing the Old Path: Evolving Threads by Tea and Next Steps
04:32 – Building a Team & Scaling Up the Business
07:08 – Discovering Your “Why” and the Importance of Legacy
10:11 – Authenticity, Imposter Syndrome & Embracing Your Value
12:25 – Rethinking “Humility” and the Power of Affirmations
14:43 – Visualizing Success & The Value of Writing Down Goals
17:47 – Vulnerability, Networking, and Sharing Your Vision
22:25 – Tea’s Creative Process: Art vs. Traditional Fashion Design
23:14 – Balancing Outside Advice with Staying True to Yourself
25:40 – Mental Health, Self-Care, and Designing Your Own Routine
29:40 – Perspective Shift: Embracing the Drive for More
31:33 – The Importance of Small Wins & Mapping Out Goals
33:45 – Real-Time Problem Solving & Life Lessons from Engineering
36:02 – What’s Next for Tea Montgomery & Where to Find Him

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to build a purpose driven company
How to find your why
How to pivot your business to fit you
How to overcome impostor syndrome
How to use the power of affirmations and visualizations
How to celebrate the small wins
How to learn from others

🚀 Start Here If You're New

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Tea:

Threads by Tea Website
Tea's IG to see some of his work

How to Turn Your Passion Into a Full-Time Career: A Guide to Creative Pivots with Elizabeth Taylor | E5

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 09:11:04 -0500

Today I talk with Elizabeth Taylor from LaCroix Artistry, about her inspiring journey transitioning from a corporate logistics job to running her own custom art business. Elizabeth shares insights on work-life balance, how she built a successful business offering window paintings, chalkboards, and canvas art, and why following your passion can lead to true fulfillment. Listeners will get valuable tips on entrepreneurship, building an art business, and the importance of maintaining control over your schedule and creative path. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking career inspiration or advice on pursuing purpose-driven work.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome & Introduction
00:33 Meet Elizabeth Taylor of LaCroix Artistry
01:11 How Elizabeth Started Her Art Business
01:55 Making the Leap to Full-Time Artist
02:27 Transitioning Careers: From Logistics to Mentorship to Art
03:46 Turning Passion Into Profession
04:02 Discovering Art Later in Life
04:49 Social Narratives and Choosing Art
06:21 Finding the Right Product-Market Fit as an Artist
06:43 Balancing Creative Freedom with Business Needs
08:51 The Importance of a Business Mindset
10:03 Daily Practice & Staying Inspired
11:06 Promoting Yourself & Building Community
14:03 Continuing to Learn: Experience Over Theory
16:28 Defining Success on Your Own Terms
18:23 Why Valuing Time Led to a Career Change
20:25 Advice for Others: Failing Forward & Taking Risks
23:26 Where to Find Elizabeth & Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to transition into a full-time art business
How to balance work and life while being an entrepreneur
How to be a creative while building a business
How to be consistent at a creative practice
How to learn through experience rather than formal training
Advice for someone in a career transition

🚀 Start Here If You're New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Elizabeth:
LaCroix Artistry
Elizabeth's IG
Shop Taylor's Art

How to Stand Up for Your Values: Finding the Courage to Be Authentic with Ramona Macintyre | E4

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Ramona was working as a CEO when she finally hit her breaking point and decided to stand up for her values. Now she does incredible work at a non-profit called Love146, who's mission is to end child trafficking. We dive into what lead to her leaving a leadership role to pursue impact instead.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Why Ramona’s Story Matters
00:55 – Ramona’s Journey: From California to Connecticut
01:32 – Challenges as a CEO
02:31 – The BLM Post Controversy
03:59 – The Breaking Point & Termination
05:46 – Starting Over: Finding Non-Profit Love146
06:14 – Love146’s Mission & Values
07:18 – Working in a Heavy Field & Finding Purpose
08:41 – Previous Nonprofit Experience
09:35 – Searching for Purpose in Work
11:04 – Finding Alignment & Balance
12:13 – Redefining Success & Family Expectations
13:18 – Why Impact Matters More Than the Ladder
14:05 – Continuous Learning & Growth
15:05 – How Ramona Defines Success
16:39 – Mental Health Then vs. Now
18:34 – Love146’s Work & How to Help

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to identify a misalignment in values
How to prioritize your mental health with your career
How to find greater job satisfaction, purpose, and fulfillment
How to change your definition of success away from climbing a corporate ladder
How to recognize signs of burnout

🚀 Start Here If You're New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect with Ramona:

Nervous System Regulation: How to Heal from Burnout and Chronic Stress with Erica Cuni | E3

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 19 Jan 2023 10:00:00 -0500

Today I talked to Eric Cuni, licensed marriage and family therapist, certified integrative mental health professional, also known as "The Burnout Professor," is a Leading Integrative Mental Health & Trauma Specialist, Keynote Speaker, and Fellow Trauma Survivor. She is on a mission to empower people worldwide with the skills to take control of their nervous system and thrive consciously.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Meet Erica Cuni: Background and Life-Altering Accident
01:08 Erica’s Journey: From Trauma to Transformation
03:09 Burnout, Overwhelm, and Calming Your Mind
05:18 Integrative Mental Health: Mind, Body, and Gut Connection
06:26 After The Accident: How Erica Approached Holistic Healing
08:41 The Role and Reality of “Hustle”
10:15 Overcoming Old Patterns and Rewriting Your Inner Voice
11:45 Defining Success & Entrepreneurship
12:41 Advice for Pursuing Passion and Making Bold Moves
15:32 Building Community as an Entrepreneur
17:40 Never Stop Learning: Erica’s Ongoing Education and Spiritual Growth
19:42 Spirituality: What It Means and Erica’s Personal Experience
22:03 What’s Next for Erica & How to Connect

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to turn trauma into purpose
How to address burnout, stress, and overwhelm
How to regulate your own nervous system
How to listen to your authentic voice
How to redefine entrepreneurial success
How to calm your mind through movement, yoga, exercise, and dance

🚀 Start Here If You're New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How to connect:

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

Connect With Erica:

Building Community Through Skateboarding, Art, and Purpose-Driven Careers with Steve Roberts | E2

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 12:00:00 -0500

When a stolen bike led Steve Roberts to skateboarding, he found a passion that inspired community, creativity, and purpose. In this episode, discover how the Push to Start program is changing lives and redefining what it means to work with purpose.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction of guest Steve Roberts and overview of his background
01:11 Steve shares how he got into skateboarding and its influence on his life
03:46 The origin story of Push to Start and its impact on youth and community
06:19 The meaning of community and Steve's approach to building it
07:20 College education, early career, and choosing a non-traditional path
10:10 Following intuition over traditional expectations and handling family pressures
13:56 Mentors that influenced Steve’s journey
16:28 Defining success personally and professionally
19:28 Lifelong learning, curiosity, and staying engaged with the community
21:37 Advice for those feeling stuck and the importance of support systems
23:41 What’s next for Steve and how listeners can support his work

💡Key Takeaways
In this episode you'll learn:
How to build community through shared spaces
How to use skateboarding as a path to purpose
How to redefine success
How to navigate familial expectations
How to stay curious and continue learning
The importance of mentorship and networks

🚀 Start Here If You're New
1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45
2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48
3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

👥How To Connect:

Workingtowardsourpurpose.com
Watch on YouTube
Substack
Instagram
LinkedIn
WTOP Merch
Feedback Form WTOP.com

My Story of Leaving My Mechanical Engineering Career Behind | E1

Pleasant Podcasts — Thu, 05 Jan 2023 07:46:31 -0500

In this first ever episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, Gino Cordone shares his journey from an unfulfilling engineering career to creating a life rooted in Purpose, Authentic Living, and mental health awareness. He reflects on navigating a career transition and building a meaningful business. The episode highlights how prioritizing values and connecting with inspiring people can lead to a more purposeful and fulfilling life.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – My Podcast Vision
00:33 – From Mechanical Engineering to Entrepreneurship
01:41 – High School Inspirations and College Choices
02:09 – Shop Class Lessons & Career Advice
03:02 – Choosing Engineering & College
03:59 – Backpacking Europe & Shifting Perspectives
05:05 – First Engineering Job at Electric Boat
06:44 – Frustrations in Corporate Culture
07:44 – Job Transition to Pratt & Whitney
09:28 – Realizing the Need for a Career Pivot
10:46 – Exploring a Career in Music & Podcasting
12:02 – Building A Side-Hustle
13:59 – Burnout During the Pandemic
15:18 – Quitting Corporate for Full-time Entrepreneurship
16:54 – Money Realities
18:07 – After Corporate Life
19:23 – Meaningful Projects & Building Purpose
20:40 – Importance of Networking & Community
22:32 – Why I Started This Podcast
22:56 – Challenging the “A Job’s Just a Job” Mindset
24:38 – Life After Quitting & A Call to Listeners

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

Hear real experiences of struggling with dissatisfaction, lack of purpose, and the challenges of leaving a stable job
Explore the inner conflict between following a conventional career path versus pursuing personal passions
Gain perspective on the impact of community and networking
Understand why finding meaning and purpose in your work can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life

🚀 Start Here If You're New

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

How To Connect:

Watch on YouTube

WTOP Merch