Dunn on Purpose Podcast

This episode continues the Separation Season conversation that began with A.L.O.N.E.Where ALONE focused on internal work, A.P.A.R.T. is about external activation.

Reflection has a shelf life.Eventually, it must turn into action.

Being set apart isn’t about isolation or superiority.It’s about intentionally becoming someone different through the actions you take.

In this episode, I introduce A.P.A.R.T., a five-part framework for turning intention into identity:

* Affirm who you’re becoming through action

* Picture a clear self-image to guide behavior

* Actualize by doing the work, not just thinking about it

* Reinforce new habits through structure and repetition

* Transform as effort becomes identity over time

We explore why affirmation and visualization matter — but only when paired with action — and how real growth happens when behavior aligns with purpose.

This is about choosing your direction instead of drifting into default patterns.

ALONE prepares you.A.P.A.R.T. reveals you.

If you enjoyed this and are interested in receiving more Power Acronyms to your inbox, consider subscribing!

In this episode, I break down Power Acronym 207: G.R.O.W., a coaching model from BNI that doubles as a powerful year-end reflection tool. December is a reflective season, and scribing, journaling, and answering intentional prompts can accelerate breakthroughs both personally and professionally.

I also share why I believe prompts are power, and why the G.R.O.W. framework is perfect for preparing for 2026—not by accident, but on purpose.

In This Episode:

* Why scribing is one of the most transformational habits from S.A.V.E.R.S.

* The origin of G.R.O.W. and how it became Power Acronym 207

* How prompts accelerate breakthroughs

* The breakdown of G.R.O.W.:

* G — Goal: Where do you want to go long-term?

* R — Reality: What’s true right now?

* O — Options: What opportunities open when you explore possibility?

* W — Will: Where does your momentum begin?

* Why December is the “practice run” for 2026

* How these questions apply whether you’re leading yourself, your business, or your chapter

Questions Featured in This Episode:

Goal:

* What do you want to achieve long term?

* Is that positive, challenging, and attainable?

* Will that be of real value to you?

Reality:

* What is working well at the moment?

* What obstacles are in your way?

* What is within your control here?

Options:

* What could you do that would help you achieve your goal?

* What do you think would happen if you did that?

* What do you think would happen if you did nothing?

Will:

* What will you do?

* What resources or support will you need?

* When should we review your progress?

BNI Gilmer Event

If you’re in East Texas, join us for the BNI Gilmer Buckeye Business Network Interest Meeting on Wednesday, December 10th.

Meet founding members, grow your network, and learn how BNI can grow your business through structured referrals.

👉 Register with the link 👉 You can also find the event on Facebook

👉 Or reach out to me directly via his Substack, PowerAcronym.com

Let’s Connect

I’m available for 1:1 conversations (in person or virtual) to walk through your G.R.O.W. reflections or explore deeper coaching questions.

Growth happens in conversation. Let’s talk.

This episode is the live recording of Power Acronym 206: A.L.O.N.E. — my Separation Season playbook for doing the inner work while everyone else is coasting. Instead of reading the post, I made some notes and went through the acronym and shared more stories, context, and questions to help you actually apply it.

If you’re feeling the pull to check out, wait for January 1st, or just “get through” the holidays, my hope is that this conversation gives you a simple framework to separate from your old patterns and quietly become someone new.

In this episode:

* What “Separation Season” is and why this time of year quietly pulls us onto autopilot

* A = Awareness – why you can’t leave where you won’t admit you are, and 3 journaling prompts to assess your energy, work, and relationships

* L = Love – using data as a flashlight, not a hammer, and changing the tone of voice you use with yourself

* O = Origin – Joseph Campbell, Frodo, and how to see yourself as an Overcomer (loss, betrayal, failure, trauma, rejection)

* N = No – how being a high-I/S “mutual yes-machine” wrecks your boundaries, plus Tim Ferriss’s practical tools for saying no

* E = Emerge – performance = knowledge minus leashes, the elephant and the tiny stake, and how to know when you’re quietly becoming someone new

Reflection prompts:

* Where am I really—in my energy, work, and love?

* How do I usually talk to myself after a mistake—and would a friend stick around if I talked to them that way?

* What kind of Overcomer am I right now: loss, betrayal, failure, trauma, or rejection?

* What’s the #1 thing I need to start saying No to this season?

* What’s one escape hatch I’m willing to feel through instead of use at least once this week?

If this episode resonates, you can read the full Power Acronym 206: A.L.O.N.E. post on Substack and watch for Part Two, A.P.A.R.T., dropping December 17.

It's time to take Power Acronym to the next level! Power Acronym is a daily practice of turning words into frameworks that encourage, enrich, and empower—teaching the Language of Leadership one acronym at a time. The Failing Forward Series dives deeper into that mission, exploring how setbacks shape success and how reflection turns mistakes into momentum. I'm excited to keep curating and creating these for small business owners, leaders, and anyone looking to grow!

In this episode of Dunn On Purpose, host Aaron Dunn dives into the concept of the New Year and how it can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and transformation. As we settle into 2025, Aaron encourages listeners to reflect on their engagement with the New Year and where they fit within his unique "New Year Engagement Matrix."

Join Aaron as he explores four distinct categories:

The Achiever: Thriving on action, growth, and accomplishment.

The Preserver: Finding comfort in routines but needing a spark of enthusiasm.

The Explorer: Energized by new possibilities but often lacking discipline.

The Wanderer: Stuck in a state of inaction and uncertainty.

Throughout the episode, Aaron poses thought-provoking questions tailored to each category, helping you identify your current mindset and encouraging you to take actionable steps toward a more purposeful life.

Whether you're feeling ambitious or apathetic, this episode is packed with insights to help you make the most of 2025. www.dunnonpurpose.com

In this episode of the Done On Purpose podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Shawn Ingram, the owner of Custom Graphics Texas and the founder of Longview Connections. We delved into Shawn's journey in the custom graphics business, which he acquired in 2019, and how he has expanded its offerings beyond small signs to include a wide range of branding services. Shawn shared his insights on the importance of strong communication and customer service in business, emphasizing that when people buy branded products, they are excited and engaged, which makes the work fulfilling.

We also explored the concept of community through Longview Connections, a grassroots networking organization that Sean started to foster relationships among local businesses. He described how the group has grown from humble beginnings to over 80 active members, creating a supportive environment where members can network, share resources, and collaborate. Sean highlighted the group's motto, "community over competition," which reflects their commitment to uplifting one another and giving back to the community.

A significant highlight of our conversation was Shawn's recent initiative to distribute funds raised through Longview Connections to local non-profits, demonstrating the group's dedication to making a positive impact in the community. We discussed the importance of volunteering and serving others, and how these actions can lead to unexpected rewards in both personal and professional realms.

Throughout the episode, Shawn's passion for his work and his commitment to fostering a sense of community were evident. He shared valuable advice for entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of integrity, transparency, and customer service in building a successful business. This episode serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of connection, collaboration, and giving back to the community.

I'm thrilled to share the latest episode of the Dunn On Purpose podcast, featuring the incredible Laura Christian from Aspire Mentoring! In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative power of mentorship and the vital role it plays in our communities. Here are three key takeaways that I believe everyone can benefit from:

* The Importance of Tailored Communication: One of the most fascinating aspects of Laura's work is the art of communication between mentors, mentees, and their families. Each relationship is unique, and Laura emphasizes the need for respectful and confidential communication. By ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued, we can create a safe space for growth and connection. This approach not only strengthens individual relationships but also fosters a sense of community.

* Building Community Through Support: Aspire Mentoring is all about creating connections that matter. Laura shared how their program pairs caring adults with children who need extra support. This matchmaking process is not just about finding a mentor; it's about building a community where kids can thrive. The emphasis on community building through strong communication is a powerful reminder of how we can all contribute to the well-being of those around us.

* The Ripple Effect of Mentorship: Mentorship is more than just guidance; it's about creating lasting impacts. Laura shared inspiring success stories of kids who have blossomed through their mentoring relationships. The journey may start with a simple connection, but the effects can be profound, leading to improved self-esteem, better social skills, and a brighter future. This episode serves as a reminder that we all have the potential to make a difference in someone else's life.

I invite you to listen to this episode and reflect on how you can contribute to your community, whether through mentorship or simply by being a supportive presence in someone’s life. Let's continue to build strong, purposeful connections that uplift us all!

Listen on Spotify, Apple

In this episode, I am joined by my good friend Scott Brown, a seasoned leader with a diverse background in sales, business ownership, real estate investment, missionary work, and pastoral leadership. Currently, Scott is an Executive Director with the John Maxwell Organization, where he focuses on coaching, speaking, and training leaders.

Watch the conversation on YouTube here.

We discuss the concept of leading on purpose, inspired by an event Scott is organizing called "Lead on Purpose." This event aims to encourage intentional leadership and personal growth. Scott shares his journey and insights on leadership, including John Maxwell's five levels of leadership: positional, relational, personal development, lending a hand, and pinnacle leadership.

Scott also highlights the significance of small communities having access to leadership events and networking opportunities. He believes that continuous learning and growth are crucial for both individuals and communities to thrive.

We delve into the core values that Scott holds dear, such as integrity, honesty, discipline, and character. He emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and accountability in personal and professional growth.

+ more!

It was great getting to chat with Scott and capture some of his wisdom in the form of this podcast episode for you. Enjoy!

Connect with Scott on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Hello, friends!

I’m thrilled to announce that a new episode of the Dunn on Purpose podcast is live! After a brief hiatus, I’m back in the podcast seat, and I can’t wait to share my thoughts on a topic that’s close to my heart: the purpose of podcasting.

In this episode, I dive deep into why I started this podcast and the reasons behind my passion for this medium. Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just curious about the world of audio storytelling, I believe there’s something in this episode for everyone.

Here’s what you can expect:

* My Journey: I reflect on my experiences in the podcasting world, from being a guest on various shows, helping others launch others, to co-hosting the Trucking for Millennials podcast for over five years. I share how these experiences have shaped my understanding of podcasting and its potential.

* The Power of Purpose: I discuss the importance of having a clear purpose in podcasting and in life. Drawing inspiration from thought leaders like Steve Jobs and Tom Rath, I explore how our commitments can guide us and create meaningful connections.

* Community and Connection: I emphasize the role of communication and community building in creating a successful podcast. I’m excited to highlight local leaders and businesses that inspire me and deserve more recognition.

* Your Enduring Commitment: I pose a thought-provoking question: What is your enduring commitment? I encourage you to reflect on this and consider how you can make your purpose evident in your daily life.

I truly believe that podcasting is a unique platform that allows us to connect, learn, and grow together. If you’ve ever thought about starting your own podcast or simply want to understand the impact of this medium, this episode is for you!

🎧 Listen now: Dunn on Purpose Podcast on Spotify and Apple

📽️Watch now: On X or YouTube

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Your support means the world, and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on this episode!

Until next time, keep pursuing your purpose!

Warm regards,

Aaron DunnHost, Dunn on Purpose Podcast

Wow. 🤯

That’s about all I can say about this episode!

I connected with Dan Kimball through the Heroic community.

He’s a Tuscon, AZ-based counselor and coach that helps his clients commit to actions that improve your life while realizing and accepting what is out of your personal control. Learn more about him at his website, Path4Change.com

He has 20 years of experience helping others through several disciplines and evidenced-based techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Motivational Interviewing and Positive Psychology.

It was an honor to have a conversation with him.

As I do with most guests on the podcast, I framed the conversation with the three C’s of Communication (with ourself, others, and life itself) Community (the virtues and values that bring and hold us together) and how the stronger those are, the stronger our Company (the business we’re building or the company we keep).

COMMUNICATION

We kicked it off with a Power Acronym 4-stage coaching model that Dan created called ARIA, which he walks us through.

Awareness and Acceptance,Resilience and Resistance Inspiration and IntentionAction and Accountability

He’s infused it with deep wisdom and practical application I think you’ll find incredibly helpful on your quest.

He also exemplified one of his signature Via Character strengths (creativity) through his work as an artist and showed the impressive box he created that beautifully showcases the ARIA model, the 24 Character strengths, his experience using Power Animals through his understanding of shamanism, and more.

Watch the video of our conversation on YouTube here.

He also gave me (and you) access to the Optitron, which is essentially the digital, online, interactive version of the art he created.

+ It's got a cyberpunk style! 😎

Learn more about the Optitron here,

and access the Optitron here!

Like I said… 🤯

COMMUNITY

Then we discussed the Village Question, the question I ask every guest on the show, which lead us to a discussion about pursuing Purpose and how you can discover your own.

THAT brought us to another question:

How do you know when you’re taking the virtuous path, rather than the vicious one, when on the pursuit of your purpose?

His answer (as they all were ) was enlightening.

COMPANY

We wrapped our conversation by talking about how he got involved with Heroic, how it’s impacted each of our lives, and why we stay engaged with the community and use the app each day.

Dan is just one of the many incredible people in the Heroic community.

If you’re interested in checking out Heroic, try it for free here.

You can learn more about the Heroic Coach program here.

Here's the link to Dan's website, YouTube and LinkedIn. His email is [email protected].

And as always, if you’d like any support on your quest to live on purpose, it would be an honor to speak with you as well!

Feel free to email me at [email protected].

Have a wonderful week!

Aaron