Working Towards Our Purpose

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

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

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LinkedIn

WTOP Merch

Feedback Form WTOP.com

Connect with Barb:

• Work with Barb
• Barb's Podcast: Fragmented to Whole
• Follow Barb on IG

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

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

Connect with Trevor:

• Visit Boxx Website 
• Follow Boxx on IG

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

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

Connect with Mike:

• Mike's Website
• Check out Mike's Instagram portfolio 
• Buy one of his awesome prints

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

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

Connect with Alyssa:

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

How to Change Your Mind - Michael Pollan

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

Workingtowardsourpurpose.com

Watch on YouTube

Substack

Instagram

LinkedIn

WTOP Merch

Feedback Form WTOP.com

Connect with Tea:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Connect with Ramona:

• Learn more about Love146
• Donate to Love146

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

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

Connect With Erica:

• Erica's Website
• Follow on IG
• Follow on LinkedIn

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

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

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