Working Towards Our Purpose

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

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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Instagram

LinkedIn

WTOP Merch

Feedback Form WTOP.com

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

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 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

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

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

"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

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 Adam:

• Musical Intervention Website 
• Musical Intervention IG
• Watch the FB Live open mic
• Visit Musical Intervention 

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

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

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

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 Phil Restivo:

• PR Mechanical Systems 

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

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 Chelsea:

• Follow Meraki Supply on IG
• Follow Chelsea on IG

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

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 Joe George:

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

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

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 Michael:

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

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

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 Cory:

• Follow CRC Guitars on IG
• Follow CRC Guitars on FB