In this episode, I have my guest (and cousin), Jess Ames Pappalardo, on to have a heartfelt dialogue about pursuing one's passion and building community through language and cultural exchange. Jess details her journey with INT’L CAFE, a movement that hosts language exchange events to facilitate cultural understanding across diverse linguistic communities. Beginning with creative events in Chicago and evolving through many forms, INT’L CAFE has grown to include a range of languages and celebrates multiculturalism without relying on traditional symbols like flags. As we discuss our respective experiences with entrepreneurship and authenticity, this episode encapsulates themes of human connection, intentionality in living, and the continuous evolution of personal and professional paths. 

Meet Jess:

Jess Ames Pappalardo is a serial entrepreneur and cultural exchange specialist. Her background in experiential art has informed her use of creativity to attract people, with a diversity of lived experience, to one another through uniquely immersive events.

Her company INT’L CAFE [pronounced: international cafe] sparks opportunities for cultural exchange by connecting language speakers and signers of all levels for immersive conversation with new friends. Join the movement at intlcafe.io!

In this episode we share:

• Exploring the importance of fulfillment in work
• The value of prioritizing passions and interests
• The significance of making room for creativity
• Approaching life with intention
• Structure and experiences of language cafe events
• The inclusive approach to different languages and cultural understanding

Visit the Show Notes:

• 12. Connecting Language Speakers for Immersive Conversations with Jess Ames Pappalardo

Connect with Jess:

• Instagram - @intlcafe.io
• Website - intlcafe.io

Mentions:

• How I Built This Podcast

Connect with Sarah:

• Follow on Instagram - @livestoked_leadstoked (business) & @sea2mountains (personal) 
• LinkedIn -  sarahbettman
• Website - www.sarahbettman.com & www.livestoked.com
• Follow on Facebook - CoachBettman

Cover Art Photo by: 

• Kim Thomson Steel

Podcast Production by: 

• Allison Nitsch | Podcast Management