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

A thought that I had recently inspired this episode.   The concept of choosing what we are known by others.  Connecting with people who have recently resonated with my journey, has brought me to the realization that we have the ability to shape our own narrative. From transitioning out of a corporate job to pursuing more meaningful work, to doing more music projects, I reflect on how my decisions and authenticity have impacted how I am perceived by those around me.  It's my second solo episode, and I'm still working through the uncomfortableness of it.  Thanks for listening!
 
✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction 
00:33 – Reflections & Listener Connections
01:13 – Choosing What You’re Known For
02:17 – Sharing Your Story and Connecting with Others
04:00 – Energy, Identity, and Deciding Your Narrative
04:54 – Listener Stories: Resonance and Impact
06:27 – How Honest Storytelling Inspires Others
07:04 – Validation, Confidence, and Finding Purpose
08:19 – The Power of Being Uncomfortable 
09:19 – Music Passion
10:27 – Taking Action on Your Goals & Being Seen for Your Passions
11:29 – Self-Perception vs. Others’ Perception
12:13 – You Can Choose to Reinvent Yourself
12:59 – Closing Thoughts and How to Connect Further
13:48 – Closing

 💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to choose what you are known for
The power of deciding your identity 
How to use vulnerability to foster genuine connection
How to invest your energy in your passions
How to push through the uncomfortable 
How to seek more fulfillment 
How to connect with 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

A business that was built during the pandemic to allow health care workers to have a little bit of self care. 

Today I sit down with Dimitri Cotman, the founder of Zenith Point Candles, as he shares his inspiring story of building a successful business from the ground up. From the challenges of starting a new business without any prior business knowledge to the importance of community support and self-care, Dimitri's journey is a testament to the power of determination and purpose. Join me as we delve into Dimitri's entrepreneurial endeavors, his passion for creating high-quality products, and the meaningful impact his business has had on his community. Get ready to be inspired by Dimitri's perseverance, personality, and insight into the world of entrepreneurship.

Bio:
Dimitri Cotman was raised New Haven, CT in a home where education and church were prioritized. His parents instilled in him the importance of excelling in school and attending church regularly. Dimitri also grew up with his grandfather and spent a lot of time in a homeless shelter supporting his community.  From an early age he used his personality to brighten peoples days and make connections.  A skill that he took with him when he started his own business Z.Nith Point Candles, where he hand crafts candles, body butters, bath balms, and room sprays. 

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:33 – Meet Dimitri Cotman: Founder of Zenith Point Candle
01:12 – Early Life, Education, and Family Influence
04:01 – High School & College Journey: Facing Challenges and Growth
07:38 – Exploring Nursing and Healthcare Inspiration
09:52 – Starting Zenith Point Candle: From Hobby to Business
13:53 – Growth, Self-Care Inspiration & Product Line Expansion
16:19 – Finding the Right Price: Transforming Hobbies Into Business
19:05 – Creating Candle Scents & Expanding Product Lines
21:03 – The Collab Program: Learning and Building Community
25:21 – The Importance of Community Support in Business
29:07 – Overcoming the Challenge of Selling & Vending
32:11 – Getting Into Retail Stores: The Wholesale Journey
37:38 – Biggest Challenges in Launching a Small Business
41:12 – Defining Purpose: Personal Reflections on Mission & Meaning
42:46 – Where to Buy Zenith Point Products & Connect with Dimitri
43:28 – Closing Thoughts & Gratitude

 💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to build a small business
How to turn a skill into a business 
How to join community for support 
How to self care as a business owner
How to navigate business challenges 
How to get product into a retail store
How to find meaning by helping 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 Dimitri:

• Shop Z.Nith Point Candle
• Follow Z.Nith Point on IG
• Follow Z.Nith Point on FB

From selling insurance to learning how to grow mushrooms, Patrick Blanchette has found purpose in his work.  He is founder of Union City Farms, a gourmet mushroom farm.  After I read an article online where Patrick was quoted in saying, ”I could literally do my entire job without thinking” I knew I had to reach out and have him on the podcast.  We talked about how he found meditation which led him to leaving his career in insurance and finding purpose in growing mushrooms.  Patrick emphasizes the negative impact of processed food and chemicals on our collective consciousness and shares how changing our diet can improve sustainability and well-being. He also delves into the healing properties of psilocybin mushrooms, the importance ignoring negative thoughts, and the expansion of his mushroom shop. In this episode we explore the power of purpose, holistic living, and the positive impact of following one's heart.

Bio: Born as a twin, Patrick Blanchette has always been competitive, leading him to a career in sales. He started off selling Kirby vacuum cleaners, which gave him valuable experience in talking to people and learning sales. This led him to explore different sales options, eventually landing him in the insurance industry. While it was fun at first, Blanchette started asking the bigger questions in life like why are we here, and what is our purpose.  That led him to believe selling insurance wasn't his reason for being here.  That's when he quit and started looking for his purpose.  He found it in mushroom farming and opened Union City Farms, a grower of gourmet mushrooms. 

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction
00:34 – From Insurance Industry to Mushroom Farmer
01:10 – Early Life, Home Life, and Path to Insurance
02:11 – The Challenges and Successes in Insurance Sales
03:39 – Why Patrick Left His Insurance Career for Purposeful Living
04:31 – Discovering Mindfulness, Meditation, and Spiritual Growth
05:26 – Using Meditation for Personal Transformation and Business Growth
07:02 – Making the Leap: Transitioning from Career to Farming
09:52 – Facing Fears and Embracing Change
12:23 – The Power of Alone Time, Meditation, and Following Your Heart
16:22 – Why Mushrooms? Choosing a Niche for Sustainable Agriculture
20:46 – Building Union City Farm and Exploring Mushroom Varieties
25:19 – Lifelong Learning: Reading, Documentaries, and Growth
28:01 – Reflections on Education, Learning, and Personal Passion
29:44 – What to Expect at Union City Farm’s Storefront
31:38 – Farmers Markets, Community, and Future Expansion Plans
33:10 – The Health Benefits of Mushrooms and Cooking Inspiration
36:51 – Defining Purpose & Spreading Love Through Food
38:06 – Psychedelics, Healing, and the Future of Mushrooms
40:26 – How to Visit and Connect with Union City Farm
41:06 – Closing

 💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to change your career 
How to overcome the fear of change 
How to pursue passion over profit
How to start a sustainable farming business 
How to benefit health from eating mushrooms
How to intentionally live
How to know where your food comes from
How to use meditation to make better decisions 

 🚀 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

Book recommendations
Dr. Joe Dispenza - Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One
Pema Chödrön - Taking the Leap: Freeing Ourselves from Old Habits and Fears

Connect with Patrick:

• Follow Patrick on IG
• Follow Patrick on FB
• Go to Union City Mushroom Farmhouse

Are you someone who think's they can't meditate? If you are, you better tune in to this episode with Kobéy Smith.  As someone who used to believe the same, Kobéy might just be the guy to get you to rethink what meditation is.  We talked about the stigma of what people think it is, and what it actualy can be.   We also discuss his entrepreneurial journey and the power of failing and pivoting and not giving up.  Lastly Kobéy is a podcaster too, and we both agreed on the importance of authenticity in the podcasting world.

Bio: Kobéy Smith is a certified meditation instructor, mental health advocate, and small business support specialist with the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. Whether it's through his expertise in mental health or business, Kobéy is dedicated to using his skills to advance the well-being of those around him.  As the founder of Kobéy Enterprises, he is always evolving his business and he learns and grows.  Kobéy is also a podcaster, his show Chattin' with Kobéy can be found on all streaming platforms. 

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
00:55 Kobey Smith's Background and Motivations
02:22 Early Life, School Experiences, and Influences
06:24 Discovering Meditation & Mental Health Journey
10:41 Meditation Advice for Beginners
14:08 Self-Care and Wellness for Entrepreneurs
17:45 The Story Behind Kobey Enterprises
24:38 Supporting Local Business Through the Chamber of Commerce
30:48 Starting "Chatting with Kobe" Podcast
35:09 Challenges & Authenticity in Podcasting
40:09 Defining Purpose & Giving Back
44:53 What's Next for Kobey and How to Connect
47:03 Closing Remarks

 💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to picot in business
How to use meditation to overcome anxiety 
How to use mindfulness practices everyday 
How to break the stigma of mental health struggle
How to have self care for entrepreneurs 
How to get involved with your chamber of commerce 
How to network with purpose
How to cultivate a growth mindset

 🚀 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 Kobéy:

• Follow Kobéy on IG
• Chattin' with Kobéy Podcast
• Connect on LinkedIn

This summer, the powder ridge mountain of Connecticut will be the home of the first annual Transcend yoga and wellness Festival, and today I sat down with Allie O'kane, the creator and founder of this amazing event. Allie shares her inspiring story of pursuing her passion for yoga, holistic healing, and above all helping others. She discusses the challenges of balancing a 9to5 job with her endeavors, her journey with different types of yoga, and bringing her vision for the Transcend Fest to life. Join me as we delve into Allie's transformative journey and learn how she is working towards her purpose.

Bio: Allie O'kane is a certified yoga teacher with a passion for holistic healing. After completing her 200-hour training in Vinyasa and power yoga, she went on to gain certifications in reiki and crystal healing. Allie discovered Kundalini yoga and found it to be the perfect fit for her teaching style. Now certified at 500 hours, she focuses on teaching Kundalini yoga and offering astrology readings, crystal healing, and reiki. Always eager to expand her knowledge, Allie continues to seek out new certifications and opportunities for growth in her practice.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction
01:10 - Allie’s Background: Childhood, Education & First Steps
02:27 - Navigating College, Early Career, and Discovering Yoga
04:31 - Love of Movement: Cheerleading, Yoga, and First Experiences
06:25 - Tips for Beginners Starting Yoga
07:27 - What Is Kundalini Yoga?
08:47 - Moving Energy, Flexibility & Mindset in Yoga
09:35 - Allie’s Journey into Reiki & Crystal Healing
11:20 - Real Results of Energy Healing
12:10 - Exploring Astrology and Allie’s Approach
13:35 - Planetary Herbalism & Medical Astrology
14:57 - Transcend Fest: What Is It & How It Began
16:21 - Classes, Lectures & Unique Offerings at Transcend Fest
17:36 - Building Festival, Teamwork & Teacher Community
20:57 - Community Impact & Welcoming Newcomers
21:31 - Circles, Support Spaces, and Novel Experiences
22:24 - Logistical Challenges: Building the Festival & Future Plans
24:35 - Purpose: What Does It Mean To Allie?
26:42 - Finding True Calling: The Kundalini Shift
28:04 - How to Join Allie’s Yoga Courses
29:30 - Private Instagram Community & Virtual Classes
32:36 - Looking Ahead: Festivals & Goals for 2024
33:20 - Final thoughts 

 💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to discover purpose through wellness
How to create a yoga festival in Connecticut 
How to integrate astrology in holistic wellness
How to build community and connection
How to make yoga accessible to beginners 
How to find and live your 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 Allie:

• Follow Allie on IG
• Learn more about Transcend Yoga and Wellness Fest
• Allie's Kundalini Yoga membership group 

Today I reflect on the one year anniversary of the podcast and the 3rd year anniversary of me deciding to leave the corporate life.  I talk a little bit about my journey of entrepreneurial challenges, redefining how my business serves me, and how embracing my authenticity will lead me to my next step. In this shorter episode I take an introspective dive into my own path towards purpose.

✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction 
00:56 – Podcast Anniversary Reflections
01:39 – Quitting Corporate & Life Changes
01:54 – Celebrating Milestones & Personal Growth
02:41 – The Realities of Running Pleasant Podcasts
04:32 – The Entrepreneurial Journey & Lessons Learned
05:07 – Finding Fulfillment in Part-Time Work
06:39 – Rethinking What Work & Purpose Mean
08:07 – Redefining Pleasant Podcasts & Future Direction
10:18 – Being Open to New Opportunities
11:35 – Embracing Authenticity & Helping Others
12:57 – Looking Ahead: Goals for the Podcast & Substack
13:42 – Closing Remarks

 💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to leave a corporate job for fulfillment
How to build a meaningful business
How to balance work, life, and income
How to redefine success
How to use failure to learn
How to value authenticity 
How to evolve 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

In this episode I spoke with author, speaker, founder of the nonprofit Pajama Program, and someone who was featured on Oprah, Genevieve Piturro.  I was so inspired by her book Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas, that I had to have her on the podcast.  We had such an inspiring discussion I'm really excited to share this episode.  Genevieve takes us on a journey from her traditional Italian upbringing to her successful corporate career and ultimately to the moment of realization that led her to create a lasting impact through following her heart and leaving behind a successful career.  We explore the power of following one's passions and uncovering one's purpose, the impact of trusting the process, and the importance of finding support from your people. Listen as Genevieve shares her wisdom and experiences, inviting us to reflect on discovering our own unique purpose and inspiring change, no matter how daunting it may seem.

Genevieve Piturro was born into a loving Italian-American family, where she felt the pressure to uphold traditions. However, she had a different calling in life. After working in a successful corporate career, Genevieve had an encounter with a group of children living in a homeless shelter, which changed the trajectory of her life. She founded the non-profit organization "Pajama Program," which provides new pajamas and books to children in need.  She has since dedicated her life to helping those less fortunate. Genevieve's story is a testament to following one's passion and making a difference in the world.
 
✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
00:55 Genevieve’s Early Life and Italian Family Traditions
02:55 Building a Corporate Career and Listening to the Heart’s Voice
04:00 First Experiences with Children in Shelters
05:58 The Birth of Pajama Program
07:05 Heart vs. Head: Making Purpose-Driven Decisions
10:01 Balancing Corporate Life with a Calling
13:03 Finding Support and Facing Skepticism
15:07 The Moment Genevieve Left Corporate for Purpose
18:00 Embracing “Selfishness” for Positive Impact
20:18 Sharing Purpose and Inspiring Others to Change
22:28 Advice for Starting on Your Purpose Path (“Jumper” vs. “Slider”)
25:23 The Power of Human Connection
27:27 Purpose, Legacy, and The Power of One Another
28:42 Trust, Coincidence, and Manifesting Purpose
31:25 Vision Boards, Meditation, and Getting on Oprah
34:17 Key Books and Resources That Influenced Genevieve
37:54 What’s Next: Speaking Engagements & Spreading Inspiration
39:32 What Does Purpose Mean to You?
42:32 Closing Remarks

💡Key Takeaways

In this episode you'll learn:

How to listen to your heart over your head
How to go from a corporate career to starting a nonprofit
How to harness the power of human connection
How to overcome fear and self doubt
How to manifest with a vision board 
How to make a change
How to be honest and self reflect
How to evolve your purpose through curiosity 

 🚀 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 Genevieve:

• Genevieve's Book: Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas
• Pajama Program
• Genevieve's website 
• Follow Genevieve on IG
• Watch Genevieve on Oprah
• Exercise to find your purpose