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We talk with internationally exhibited painter Joanna Blair about turning a breast cancer diagnosis into clarity, creative grit and work that celebrates inner beauty, resilience and new beginnings. We explore hidden keys, fear, purpose and how to guard the mind in a noisy world.

• why challenges feel hard and how mindset shapes the experience
• the shock-to-clarity moment after diagnosis
• the winding path from nursing and makeup to global art shows
• thriving beyond survival as a creative theme
• doors closing so better ones can open
• hidden keys as symbols of potential and inner guidance
• practical courage through first steps and steady focus
• curating inputs and protecting attention from algorithm noise
• purpose defined as freedom, growth and joy
• advice for young people on identity, boundaries and resilience

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What if your greatest strength isn't what people see, but what they don't see? The superhero narratives we grew up watching on Saturday mornings weren't just entertaining cartoons—they were powerful metaphors for our adult lives.

Remember sitting cross-legged in front of the TV, watching X-Men or Superman save the day? These stories continue to resonate because they speak to something fundamental about the human experience: we all have unique gifts that often remain hidden beneath the surface of ordinary life. Like Clark Kent working at the Daily Planet, many of us move through professional environments where our full potential remains unseen or unacknowledged. We take directions from people who might be shocked if they knew our true capabilities and dreams.

What makes the Clark Kent/Superman analogy so compelling is that Clark was the real hero—not Superman. The restraint, patience, and wisdom required to know when to reveal your power and when to hold back is perhaps the greatest strength of all. As Maya Angelou wisely noted, "I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people." Heroism isn't about flashy demonstrations of ability; it's about consistent, intentional effort to improve conditions for yourself and others.

Your greatest superpower remains invisible to others: being authentically you. The thoughts you cultivate, the feelings you honor, and the actions you take—these shape your presence and impact. This isn't about grand, world-saving gestures. It's about bringing your unique talents into everyday situations, stepping out occasionally to demonstrate your capabilities before stepping back in. It's a dance of revelation and restraint that transforms environments through deliberate action and the courage to be seen.

Take a moment to reflect on the superheroes you connected with as a child. There's likely a meaningful connection between those characters and your own innate strengths. Purpose isn't something you find—it's something you do, consistently and intentionally. Join our community to discover how your human mess becomes the process that helps shape your purpose your way.

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Ever feel like you're walking through mud while everyone else skips effortlessly through life? You're not alone. When unexpected challenges hit—whether economic pressures, health concerns, or relationship troubles—finding solid ground seems impossible.

The secret isn't that some people don't have problems. It's that purposeful people navigate difficulties differently. They understand that purpose isn't some distant treasure to be discovered but something we actively create through daily choices. Your purpose at 25 may look nothing like your purpose at 50, and that's perfectly normal. What matters is identifying what brings you connection, peace, and satisfaction right now.

Consider the ancient fable of the oak and the reed. When fierce storms came, the mighty oak was uprooted while the humble reeds survived by bending with the wind. "You were destroyed by fighting against the storm," explained the reed, "while we survived by yielding." This wisdom applies directly to our modern challenges. Fighting circumstances beyond our control exhausts us, while learning to bend—adapting while maintaining our core values—allows us to withstand life's fiercest winds.

Like a captain navigating through a storm, your purpose becomes the destination that keeps you oriented when visibility is poor. Each day, ask yourself: "What is my purpose today? What small action can I take that aligns with my values and brings me peace?" This daily practice of purposeful living builds resilience that withstands even the most challenging circumstances.

Remember, you have a sacred birthright to happiness, peace of mind, and well-being—but that journey starts with you. Tough times don't last, but purposeful people do. Your human mess is simply part of the process of shaping your purpose, in your own unique way.

Subscribe to this podcast on your platform of choice and join our community as we navigate life's challenges together, finding purpose even in our most difficult moments.

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At the heart of achievement lies a fundamental question: is success earned through effort and determination, or simply bestowed upon the chosen few? When actor Anthony Mackie's controversial statement that "success is given, not earned" went viral, it triggered important conversations about the nature of accomplishment, especially for younger generations already navigating a complex relationship with achievement in the social media age.

This thought-provoking episode dissects what success truly means beyond the soundbites and viral quotes. Drawing wisdom from motivation pioneer Earl Nightingale, who defined success as "the progressive realization of a worthy ideal," we explore why success should be viewed as a journey rather than a destination. The path isn't about accumulating possessions or validation but about aligning with your authentic self through purposeful action toward meaningful goals.

Those with platforms and influence bear significant responsibility for the messages they amplify. When we remove context from challenging conversations, we risk fostering entitlement and passivity rather than agency and resilience. Through Ralph Emerson's timeless wisdom that excellence creates its own opportunity, we discover that true success comes from continuous self-improvement—being better than yesterday, not better than others.

Your success journey is uniquely yours. Stop comparing your chapter one to someone else's chapter twenty. Whether building a career, pursuing a passion, or developing personally, the authentic path to achievement requires vision, action, and the courage to define success on your own terms. Remember: your human mess is the process that shapes your purpose your way. Join our community as we navigate life's challenges together and discover what it truly means to live purposefully.

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Ever wondered how life's unexpected turns can reshape your purpose? Join me, Adrian Starks, as I open up about my transformative two-month hiatus and the profound changes in my journey since 2018. 

• Confronting the challenges of recent life events
• The evolution of the podcast and its purpose
• The impact of the pandemic on personal aspirations
• The physical move and its emotional implications
• Coping with the loss of my father and its significance
• The importance of vulnerability and self-expression

Inspired by legends like Les Brown and Maya Angelou, I reveal the raw truth about the winding path of self-discovery and how COVID-19 turned expectations upside down. Through the highs and lows, I've learned that making others feel valued is the true mark of success. Listen in as I share candid insights and stories that led to a new direction for "Your Purposeful Life," evolving from an entrepreneurial spotlight to a broader exploration of human nature and purpose.

Looking ahead to 2025, I'm thrilled to share plans for hosting an array of incredible guests and making empowering podcast appearances. Together, we’ll explore the depths of self-expression and growth, drawing parallels to the complexities of superheroes. Through engaging conversations, we'll unravel the beauty of humanity and the significance of embracing our emotions. With references to Socratic wisdom and "A New Earth," this episode aims to inspire you to honor your unique journey. Get ready for diverse content, from movie insights to Marvel comics and beyond, as we embark on this shared path of learning and growth in our chaotic yet beautifully human mess.

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Imagine navigating life's challenges with a sense of purpose, even when the odds seem stacked against you. That's the journey I, Adrian Starks, share in our latest episode of Your Purposeful Life Podcast, alongside the insightful Mark Paisant, host of the Relatively Normal Podcast. Together, we unpack the layers of mental health, emphasizing the need to openly discuss anxiety, stress, and depression with the same ease we discuss a common cold. Our conversation is not just about sharing struggles but also about finding empowerment through vulnerability and intentionality.

Marc and I are on a mission to normalize mental health conversations, challenging the stigma that often surrounds them. We explore personal stories that reveal the hidden battles behind seemingly successful exteriors, including my own experience of grappling with depression. Marc shares his transformative journey of overcoming negative self-talk and isolation, highlighting how small gestures, like a simple text, can make a world of difference. We also examine the growing trend of public figures sharing their mental health stories and the ripple effect it has on societal norms and personal growth.

This episode is more than just a dialogue; it's a call to action to live with intent and purpose. Whether it's aligning your actions with personal goals or finding strength through fitness and therapy, the path to a fulfilling life comes down to self-compassion and purposeful living. Marc adds to the conversation by sharing insights on shaping your own purpose, reminding us all that our personal challenges are integral to our journey. Tune in to be inspired, empowered, and to find a community that values the human experience in all its complexities.

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Episode #131

In this episode, Adrian Starks interviews Jay H. Tepley about stepping into greatness as a man and finding purpose. They discuss the challenges men face in society and the importance of rites of passage. Jay emphasizes that purpose should not be equated with career and explains the process of choosing and expressing one's purpose. They also explore the concept of the new era and the need for personal responsibility. Jay shares insights on breaking through plateaus and offers advice on living a purposeful life. The episode concludes with a discussion on Jay's book, The Light Witch Chronicles, and her lightsaber training program for mental health.


takeaways

• Men face challenges in society and often lack support and guidance.
• Purpose should not be equated with career; it is about becoming the greatest version of oneself.
• The new era requires embracing personal responsibility and creating one's own reality.
• Breaking through plateaus requires listening to the heart and seeking guidance from mentors.
• Living a purposeful life means finding inner peace and serving the world.

Guest: Jay H. Tepley

Social Media

Website: https://newerasuperhero.com/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newerasuperhero

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/newerasuperhero

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

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhtepley/ 

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Episode #130

Summary: In this conversation Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin , a renowned poet, singer, and speaker from Ireland, discusses the power and purpose of poetry. He explains that good poetry is often descriptive, instructive, and inward-looking, inviting readers to feel and connect with their own experiences. Poetry can be therapeutic and healing, instilling patience, silence, and solidarity.  Mícheál recites a poem by W.B. Yeats and discusses the personal and honest nature of poetry. He also mentions other influential Irish poets such as Thomas Moore and Oscar Wilde. Overall, poetry offers a unique perspective and allows us to explore the invisible aspects of our existence.

Takeaways

• Good poetry is descriptive, instructive, and inward-looking, inviting readers to connect with their own experiences.
• Poetry can be therapeutic and healing, instilling patience, silence, and solidarity.
• Poetry offers a unique perspective and allows us to explore the invisible aspects of our existence.
• Irish poets such as W.B. Yeats, Thomas Moore, and Oscar Wilde have made significant contributions to the world of poetry. Authenticity and being true to oneself are essential in the creative process.
• Creativity can be a form of therapy and a way to express and process emotions.
• The Irish culture has a rich history of poetry, music, and creativity.
• Beatboxing and breathing exercises can be used as tools for self-expression and creativity.

Aha Moments

• "The act of reading a poem is an act of patience."
• "Reciting poetry from memory creates a deep reverie."
• "Ireland is synonymous with art, music, and creativity."

Guest: Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin

Social Media

Website: https://www.owenandmoley.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichealMoleyOSuilleabhain/
LinkedIn:

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Episode #129

In this conversation, Adrian Starks interviews Sara Deacon, an adulting coach who works with young adults to help them play in their passions and own their future. They discuss the misconceptions about Gen Z, including the belief that they are lazy or directionless. Sara explains that Gen Z is actually overwhelmed and anxious, but they want to make an impact and be their best selves. They also talk about the challenges Gen Z faces, such as mental health issues and the pressure to navigate a rapidly changing world. Sara provides advice for parents on how to connect with their Gen Z children, including asking open-ended questions and being curious about their interests. She also shares tips for Gen Z individuals on how to have more fun and overcome fear by changing their mindset and trying new things. Living a purposeful life, for Sara, means being connected to oneself, inspiring others, and surrounding oneself with passionate and purposeful people.

Takeaways

• Gen Z is often misunderstood and labeled as lazy or directionless, but they are actually overwhelmed and anxious, and they want to make an impact and be their best selves.
• Mental health is a major concern for Gen Z, and they often feel that the support they receive is inadequate.
• Parents can connect with their Gen Z children by asking open-ended questions, being curious about their interests, and building relationships with their friends, teachers, and coaches.
• Gen Z individuals can have more fun and overcome fear by changing their mindset, trying new things, and reframing fear as excitement.
• Living a purposeful life means being connected to oneself, inspiring others, and surrounding oneself with passionate and purposeful people.

Aha moments from Sara

"Gen Z is overwhelmed and anxious, but they want to make an impact and be their best selves."

"Mental health is a major concern for Gen Z, and they often feel that the support they receive is inadequate.

"Parents can connect with their Gen Z children by asking open-ended questions and being curious about their interests."

Resources

Guest: Sara Deacon  

Social Media

Website: https://saradeacon.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saradeaconcoach
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saradeacon
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@saradeaconcoach
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@saradeaconcoach

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In this episode, Adrian Starks interviews Julian Hayes II, an executive health and performance advisor, about his journey and his work in helping people achieve optimal health. Julian shares his shift in career path from aspiring to be a doctor to focusing on health and performance. He introduces the concept of generational health and emphasizes the importance of mindset in achieving optimal health. Julian also explains the role of epigenetics in health and how it can be influenced by lifestyle factors. He discusses the future of health, including precision medicine and the need for a shift towards preventative care.

In this conversation, Julian discusses the importance of giving aging a rebrand and recognizing it as a disease. He also talks about his work with high-stress individuals and how he helps them manage their health using new technologies. Julian emphasizes the need for baseline measurements and personalized health approaches. He highlights the impact of quality sleep on emotional intelligence and overall well-being. Julian encourages individuals to build a foundation for optimal health and balance success with health. He also discusses the power of visualization and acting as if to achieve desired outcomes. Ultimately, Julian believes that living a purposeful life involves growth and fulfillment.

Takeaways

• Aging should be recognized as a disease and given a rebrand to promote preventative measures.
• Baseline measurements, such as blood work, are essential for tracking and improving health.
• Wearables, like fitness trackers, can provide valuable insights into sleep quality and overall health.
• Quality sleep is crucial for emotional intelligence and overall well-being.
• Balancing success and health requires treating health as a system and making it a priority.
• Visualizing and acting as if you are already the person you want to be can lead to desired outcomes.
• Living a purposeful life involves growth and fulfillment.

Resources

Guest: Julian Hayes II

Social Media

Website: https://www.executivehealth.io/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julianhayesii/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thejulianhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exechealth

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