Uncorking a Story

Revealing Purpose, with Nick Kemp


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“You don’t need to find your ikigai—you already have it. You just need to notice it.” — Nick Kemp


What if purpose isn’t something you chase—but something you already have? In this episode, Mike sits down with Nick Kemp, founder of Ikigai Tribe and author of A Year of Ikigai, to explore a more grounded, human take on purpose. Nick shares how a guy who once hated writing ended up publishing books, building a global community, and helping others reconnect with meaning—through small, everyday moments. This conversation challenges the Western obsession with “big purpose” and offers a simpler, more sustainable way to live a meaningful life.


Key Takeaways:

  1. You already have purpose. Ikigai isn’t a destination—it’s found in everyday experiences, relationships, and roles.
  2. Western culture overcomplicates purpose. We chase the “perfect job” or passion, while overlooking meaning in ordinary moments.
  3. Curiosity can change your life. Nick’s journey—from podcast to books—started with simply asking better questions.
  4. Small moments are the big moments. A cup of coffee, a conversation, or a quiet walk can carry more meaning than major achievements.
  5. Writing doesn’t require perfection—just honesty. Nick went from struggling with English to writing from lived experience and the heart.
  6. Technology is pulling us away from meaning. The more distracted we become, the harder it is to notice what actually matters.
  7. Be present, not perfect. Life satisfaction comes from awareness and gratitude—not chasing an ideal version of success.


    Buy A Year of Ikigai: Finding Everyday Purpose Through Japanese Wisdom

    Amazon: https://amzn.to/4uP5m3O

    Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/54587/9781577155485


    Connect with Nick

    Website: https://ikigaitribe.com/

    Podcast: https://ikigaitribe.com/podcasts/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-kemp-author/


    Connect with Mike

    Website: https://uncorkingastory.com/

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uncorkingastory

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncorkingastory/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncorkingastory

    TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncorkingastory

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/uncorkingastory

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/uncorking-a-story/


    If you like this episode, please share it with a friend. If you have not done so already, please rate and review Uncorking a Story on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.


    #Ikigai #WritersOfInstagram #AmWriting #AuthorLife #WritingCommunity #PurposeDrivenLife #MindfulLiving #PodcastLife #UncorkingAStory #CreativeJourney


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    Uncorking a StoryBy Michael Carlon

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