The Meaning Movement: Helping You Find Your Calling, Create Your Life's Work, and Make Career Change
Dan Cumberland is on a mission to push you into the places where meaning and life intersect. Whether you call it purpose, passion, calling, vocation, dream job, or life's work, The Meaning Movement is here to help you identify and pursue it. Through the stories of experts and people in process, we're taking apart the myths of a single path and overnight success and replacing it with tried and true strategies for the slow and steady pursuit of meaning in your life and work. Whether you're ready to switch careers or wondering how to get the most out of the time you have, this show will offer you the inspiration, encouragement, and strategies you need.
info_outline
Call for Guests
12/17/2020
Call for Guests
As I (Dan) puts together the batch of content, I'm hoping to fill a gap in our guest demographic. In this short episode I talk about what that gap is, why it exists, and how YOU can help. If you're interested on being on the show apply at https://themeaningmovement.com/apply
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/17236832
info_outline
Letting Go of Job Shame with Nick Cox
11/05/2020
Letting Go of Job Shame with Nick Cox
Nick Cox has done some deep work around calling and vocation in his life. I loved this interview because we were able to go places that many guests just aren't ready to go. Which is to say, you can tell Nick has done his work. He's also a good friend and long time listener of the Meaning Movement and member of the Calling Course, so I've had the privilege of getting glimpses of his process along the way. Nick's tired of the common narrative of quitting your day job and doing what you love as the primary way to purpose and meaning, which is why we decided to do this interview. He's representative of a demographic that I tend to miss with my guests, those who are taking a less entrepreneurial path. This conversation goes from discussing the high level philosophy of calling to deep into Nick's story pretty quickly. Spoiler alert, it gets a bit emotional at some points. But I also think this is one of the most important conversations that I've had the opportunity to share on the podcast, simply because of who Nick is and the perspective that he brings to the conversation. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did speaking with him. It's a powerful conversation. And if you find it impactful, I'd love for you to share it with anyone who may benefit. In this episode you'll learn: What Nick does His process of letting go of his hopes and dreams How he thinks about transitions His process to let his job be "enough" What is his thought are about the four P’s The struggles he’s been through along the way The legacy he wants to leave His advice for those who feel stuck Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/16510229
info_outline
Identity, Change, and Religious Trauma with Allen O'Brien
10/20/2020
Identity, Change, and Religious Trauma with Allen O'Brien
Allen O'Brien helps people with transitions. Faith transitions. Identity transitions. And recovery from religious trauma. He's a minister, a student, a listener, and podcaster. We got to talk about how challenging it can be when parts of your identity change and how to navigate those transitions. We also dig religious trauma and high control religious environment and how they impact us. Allen is a fantastic conversation partner. He's open. Kind. And honestly exactly the kind of person I'd like to have as a minister. In this episode you'll learn: What Allen does What is his core identify When did he make that decision that this is a direction that he's going to pursue? Allen shares his work experience in the past How he defines religious trauma How to navigate personal change with loved ones who don't necessarily want to see you change The important role rituals can play in your life What words of wisdom from Allen for people who are stuck Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/16475291
info_outline
Understanding Your Motivation with Todd Henry
10/06/2020
Understanding Your Motivation with Todd Henry
Have you ever needed and even wanted to do something, but struggled to get into action to get it done? When I look at the way my energy for activities shifts— it can seem so illogical. There are things that I can't wait to get out of bed to do, and there are other things that I can't get myself out of bed to do. Why is that? Today on the podcast, we get to dig in and attempt to answer that question. My guest today is Todd Henry — author, podcaster, and creative director. He's the founder of the Accidental Creative podcast — a show that has more than a million downloads. He's also the author of a handful of books, including his most recent: the Motivation Code, which comes out the day this episode releases. I really enjoyed my conversation with Todd for many reasons. He's a great conversation partner and knowledgeable in all the areas I enjoy: creativity, psychology, business, and more. We dive into his work journey, and his new book. You'll have some good take aways for your own work and life, including a better understanding of how you're motivated and how to use that to your advantage. In this episode you'll learn: What Todd does How he got into what he's doing The back story behind the name “Accidental Creative” How Todd thinks about his identity in all the different roles he holds What are his thoughts on the process of identifying and naming his "white hot center" How does Todd thinks about purpose, meaning and calling in his work Todd shares about his new book “The Motivation Code” What are the Motivational Themes and how do they impact our day to day work life What is the impact he wants to make with his new book Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/16233401
info_outline
Time and the Future of Work with Laura Vanderkam
09/22/2020
Time and the Future of Work with Laura Vanderkam
Time is a strange thing. Though it always continues on, it sometimes feels as though it moves quickly and other times slowly. In work, sometimes it's easy to manage our time and what we can fit into a few hours or a day. Other times it gets away from us — leaving us frustrated and unsatisfied. These are some of the attributes of time that fascinate Laura Vanderkam and drew her to build a career out of writing on the topic. Laura is the bestselling author of What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast, I Know How She Does It, 168 Hours, among others. She is the host of a few podcasts and her work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Fast Company, Fortune, and other publications. I really enjoyed speaking with Laura about her new book, as well as many different aspects of time and time management. I hope you will as well. In this episode you'll learn: What Laura does How she got into this particular niche What were she doing before The point in her life when she decided this is what she was going to do Laura share a bit about her new book What are some major themes that helps someone to be effective working from home What does it mean that “Time is Flexible”? Where to start to gain more control over your time How to do a time log How often should you do a time log Where to insert important things into your day How to go about setting priorities How to dealt with uncertainty about next steps What are time traps and how to avoid them How to optimize time in a way that's not exhausting Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/16079621
info_outline
Becoming a writer with Sara Easterly
09/08/2020
Becoming a writer with Sara Easterly
Sara Easterly is a writer, but it's taken some time for her to own that as her work identity. As with many of us, there are traces of it all the way back to her younger years. But it took some time for that part of herself to identity to emerge. One of the turning points in her process came when she realized, she was giving so much to everything else she was doing and "giving herself the left-overs", as she said it. In this episode you'll learn: What Sara does How she ended up in her career How she deals with the fear of the unknown What is the role of a publicist? The challenges did she faced in her process What it means to play the "numbers game” an author How to build the confidence to continue in spite of rejections What her work is about How she thinks about words like calling, purpose, and vocation Sara shares a bit about her book Why publishers told told her adoption books don't do well What we should know about adoption Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/15878285
info_outline
Undocumented to Financial Independence with Diego Corzo
08/25/2020
Undocumented to Financial Independence with Diego Corzo
I know work can be a tough part of life for some. I've had it lucky in many ways, in spite of the many struggles I've had over the years. Our guest today had to overcome more than most, and his story is incredible. Diego came to the United States at 9 years old, undocumented. He was a great student — top of his class. And spent his time outside of school volunteering. When he was offered a job he discovered he couldn't just get one — unlike his peers . What he did next took resolve and creativity. I'll let him tell that story. Today Diego works to inspire others with his story and help them find financial freedom as a real estate agent and educator. In this episode you'll learn: What Diego does Diego's career journey The power of questions How finding the right “why” helped him How to set your vision and choose what to focus on The power of a peer group and how Diego found his Where to start when it comes to finding that kind of community How he defines financial independence personally What is house hacking His words of wisdom for people who are stuck and do not know what to do next Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/15726902
info_outline
Working With and For Yourself with Stephen Warley
08/11/2020
Working With and For Yourself with Stephen Warley
Stephen Warley wants you to take control of your work and career and become a free agent. He believes that your best work is done when you're working for yourself, and not for someone else. Stephen runs Life Skills that Matter - a business, blog, and podcast that helps people start businesse that fit who you are. He believes that work is changing for the better and that it's time to adapt and embrace the freedom that the new future of work brings. I had a lot of fun talking with Stephen. This interview is one part of a two part series we did on the concept of being yourself in your work. The other half of the conversation can be found on the Life Skills that Matter podcast — which you can find in your podcast catcher or in the shownotes at In this episode you'll learn: How he views corporate jobs Why he left the corporate world Can someone work in a corporation and still be themselves and in their work How lifestyle can and should lead you What is the path to your true self How to use your time on your own terms What are the two types of stress How to develop habits to best use your energy What are baby steps you can take toward being yourself in your work Steps in living and working in alignment with who you are How to take ownership of your work How to create work that is based on your values What is his advice to those feeling stuck and don't know what to do Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/15549542
info_outline
Building an Intentional Career and Organization with Barrett Brooks
07/28/2020
Building an Intentional Career and Organization with Barrett Brooks
Barrett Brooks believes that business, when done right, can be one of the most powerful forces for good in the world. His career took a sharp turn when the path he planned ended up feeling empty. This sent him on a journey toward discovering what makes meaningful work. I'll let him tell his story. But needless to say, Barett has thought long and hard about work and meaning, both for himself as well as for his organization. Today he's the COO of Convertkit. Self described as a Husband. Father. Change maker. Optimist. and Environmentalist, I loved connecting with Barrett and hearing the many twists and turns it takes to find your way in your work. I left this conversation feeling so grateful for the intentionality he brings to the organization that he's building, and hope to do the same in my leadership. In this episode you'll learn: What Berrett is excited about right now Where his journey toward meaningful work began for him What he's learned along the way How he thinks about the impact that he is trying to make When to decide to stay in the course or move on from a job/project/idea How he determines culture and environmental fit in the hiring process How Convertkit uses an exercise called “Listening walks” What are the eight things that contribute to meaningful work Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/15290987
info_outline
Can Work Make You Happy? with Wendy Conrad
07/16/2020
Can Work Make You Happy? with Wendy Conrad
Wendy Conrad has been where many of our listeners and I have also been at some point: a job that didn't fit, feeling frustrated and needing a change. I'll let her tell her story, and it's a good one. Her negative work experience lead her started asking the question: can work be a happy place? Can it actually be fun? which lead her to what she does now. Today she's a Work Culture Developer and Founder of Your Happy Workplace, her current project and focus. Wendy was a lot of fun to speak with. She's full of energy and ideas. I had a great time speaking with her, and I think you'll enjoy listening in. In this episode you'll learn: What Wendy does What is the science of happiness How did she get to where she is now What obstacles did she face when she was working for others What roles has she been in How to build a self care routine while still being productive What is her hope for her business What are some actionable things you can do to make your workplace better What do calling and purpose mean for Wendy What to do if you feel stuck Show notes at: /
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/15186734
info_outline
Is Personality Permanent? With Dr. Bejamin Hardy
07/02/2020
Is Personality Permanent? With Dr. Bejamin Hardy
Dr. Benjamin Hardy is challenging head on the notion that personality tests can tell you who you are. In fact, his research shows that they may actually be counter-productive to growing, learning, and becoming who you want to be. He is an organizational psychologist, successful entrepreneur and bestselling author of Willpower Doesn't Work and Personality Isn't Permanent, on sale 6/16. His blog is read by millions of people monthly and featured on Forbes, Fortune, CNBC, Cheddar, Big Think, and many others and adds priceless value to your audience by helping them to break free from the shackles of what they perceive as a permanent personality. He is a regular contributor to Inc. and Psychology Today and one of the most popular writers on Medium. He speaks and trains at a wide range of events. He and his wife Lauren adopted three children through the foster system in February 2018 and, one month later, Lauren became pregnant with twins, who were born in December of 2018. They live in Orlando. I had a great time interview. It's one of those conversations that I just wasn't ready to end. I love what Dr. Hardy is doing. It's important work. In this episode you'll learn: What Dr. Hardy does Some of the major transitions he's been through How to handle criticism What was his path became a writer How to pursue a big goal How to find yourself and discover your purpose What is a “Ten Thousand Hour Rule”? Where did the idea of his new book Personality Isn't Permanent come from? Why some people stop growing when they reach their goal What's wrong with personality test What are “The Big Five” personality tests The difference between identity and personality How overly relating to aspect of your identity affects yourself What is the "future self" How you clarify what you want when you're unsure Why is your future self is not what you are today What is his advice for making baby steps towards your dreams How your past shapes the current reality How looking at the situation from a different perspective can benefit you How we can reshape how we view the past Where confidence come from and how to build it How to be more confidence in the choices that we make Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/14979719
info_outline
The Future of Food with Chase Purdy
06/16/2020
The Future of Food with Chase Purdy
Chase Purdy is a journalist who has found himself in a very specific but surprisingly fun and fascinating corner of journalism: cell-cultured meat. Whether or not you even know what that is or have any judgments about it, I invite you to put them aside and come along on a captivating journey with us as we dive deep into food, sustainability, and what might be the future of food. We get to hear some of Chase's career path and the major transitions he's made, as well as about his new book. In this episode you'll learn: What Chase does How he got into this sub niche of journalism Did he always know that he wanted to be a journalist? How he handles criticism of his work What the word “Voice” means to him as a writer or journalist? What is he trying to do as a journalist? What is appealing about food journalism What attracted him to the food space What is cell cultured meat? What’s the difference between cell cultured meat and meat from live stocks? What is the environmental effect of this meats Would you eat a self cultured burger? What are the most surprising aspect revealed about this topic Who are the people behind this concept What would be the possible future cost of this meat? What legacy he wants to leave with this book? Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/14841494
info_outline
Finding Your Calling with Your Team with Mike Michalowicz
05/26/2020
Finding Your Calling with Your Team with Mike Michalowicz
Mike Michalowicz is an author and entreprenuer. As you'll hear in the show, he's an author first and foremost. He's written six business books and counting. Personally, he's one of my favorite voices in the world of business. His books are practical and incredibly helpful. Whether or not you're an entrepreneur, I think you'll find this interview really fun. Mike has thought long and deep about calling and purpose in his life. We get to dig into the major transitions he's made in his career, how he thinks about his calling, and how he leads an organization that is centered on helping his team fulfill their own. In this episode you'll learn: What Mike does Why identifying as an author is a big deal for Mike What lessons Mike has learned from writing his books How he decides what book to write next Has Mike always been an entrepreneur? How did he started as an entrepreneur What he's learned about being a boss How he thinks about the word “Calling” What mistakes he's made along the way What he's learned from his mistakes How Mike measures his calling The 3 formations of an identity crisis How Mike as a leader finds ways to help people build their dreams How Mike is helping his employees find their calling and how it can help your company Why you should not be embarrassed on where you are or what you’re job right now Mike shares about his transition from being an entrepreneur to an author Mike talks about his new book "Fix this Next" Mike shares his words of wisdom for those stuck on what to do next Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/14566196
info_outline
The Art of Productive Disagreement with Buster Benson
11/27/2019
The Art of Productive Disagreement with Buster Benson
I've been following Buster Benson for years. His journaling platform, 750words.com, has been a part of my writing process since the inception of the Meaning Movement. Something that's always spoken to me about Buster's work is first, how he works to create tools to help people improve, and second, how he's always working on projects. He's not one to sit around, and I really resonate with that. His most recent work is a book about the importance of disagreements and how to make them productive. In our interview we dig into Buster's work, his many projects, and do a deep dive into how we can make disagreements something more than arguments. I loved connecting with Buster. He's an inspiration and doing such important work. In this episode you'll learn: What does Buster do? What is the question he uses to start his projects? What is the “Art of Productive Disagreement”? How Buster ended up to his current career When is it time to make a move or career change? His message to those planning to leap to another job or career Why do we get to the point that we feel stuck? What is a Cognitive biases? Examples of Confirmation biases What is Naive Realism? The benefit of learning Cognitive biases Some highlights from Buster’s book Benefits of practicing disagreement What’s the fruit of disagreement? Four categories of Internal Voices: the voice of power, the voice of reason, the voice of avoidance, and the voice of possibility. What are the different approaches to disagreement? What impact does he hope for his book? Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/12192827
info_outline
Getting Plugged In with AY Musik
11/12/2019
Getting Plugged In with AY Musik
AY Musik is a musician, sustainability activist, and budding social entrepreneur. He set an audacious the goal of performing live every single day, which created a problem: how can he power amps, mics, and instruments anywhere in the world so he could achieve this goal? That question lead him on a deep dive into electricity, batteries, and ultimately product design, as he built a power box to make his shows possible. Now he's working on making his "Sunshine Box" (as he calls it) an affordable solution for developing communities around the world. All of this in addition to continuing to write music, perform shows, and help people realize that we all can be positive agents of change. In this episode you'll learn: What AY does How does AY approach music What he means by getting “plugged in” How his parents' example shaped what he's doing What got him started with music How he started sharing his music to the world How long did his daily music tour go on? Where did the idea of the Sunshine Box come from How do they power concerts AY speaks about alternative sustainable energy Pros of using alternative energy in a micro concert What keeps him going How he describe his music The reason he loves what he do He talks about his parents What he recommend to those who are stuck in there life Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/11982428
info_outline
How to Pitch Your Ideas with Brant Pinvidic
10/29/2019
How to Pitch Your Ideas with Brant Pinvidic
Brant Pinvidic pitched ideas for a living. As a highly successful TV and film producer, his projects were born and died via his ability to communicate the concept simply, quickly, and effectively. Over time he discovered a simple format that all strong pitches shared. We got to dig into his 3 Minute Pitch format, his journey into and out of Hollywood, and how to apply his format to your life, career, and work. Brant was a lot of fun to interview. He's a true professional and a master of his craft. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. You're listening to the Meaning Movement Podcast, a show about work worth doing. In this episode you'll learn: How Brant got into Hollywood Why you shouldn't follow other people's career maps Brant's mindset towards new goals/projects What’s stopping you from moving forward What to do if things doesn’t work out for you The difference between self-doubt and situational-doubt Why understanding self-doubt and situational-doubt important Why the phrase “You can do whatever you put your mind to" isn't helpful, and what else to use instead Why focus one one thing is better than many How Brant knew it was time to make a jump from producer to speaker-consultant What happens if you focus on potential failure “The 3-Minute Rule” and Brant's new book How to apply "The 3-Minute Rule” to your work, career, and life How to apply Brant's pitch format to a job interview What Brant thinks about "Meaning, calling, and purpose” when it comes to work Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/11643641
info_outline
Overcoming Burnout with Dara Paoletti
10/15/2019
Overcoming Burnout with Dara Paoletti
Dara Paoletti noticed a pattern in her life. She would get into a job, lose herself in it for a few years, and then discover that she was significantly burnt out. She felt empty and spent. She uses the phrase, "work zombie" to describe it. After going through this a few time, she knew she needed to find another way. She dug in deep to herself and her work, and something new and surprising emerged: a passion for helping people stay engaged, energized, and out of burnout. In my interview with Dara we talk about the struggle to find your way as a creative with many interests, how to create guardrails against burnout, and so much more. I loved my time with her, and I think that you will too. In this episode you'll learn: What Dara does What is her relationship with the word “Life Coach” Is this what she dreamed to become when she was little How she struggled with burnout She shared her journey to where she is now Why being different is ok Her struggles (and successes!) as a creative person Things that lead her to feel she don’t fit in the box How to define "burnout" Why burned out happens Different ways burnout can look Dara shares her own burnout story and how she got through it How to prevent burnout What are "turtle steps" and why they're helpful Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/11458604
info_outline
Let Your Intuition Guide You with Rick Snyder
10/01/2019
Let Your Intuition Guide You with Rick Snyder
What does intuition have to do with your career success? Quite a bit, it turns out. Rick Snyder is a business coach and author, among other things. He and his team are working on helping individuals and businesses listen to their intuition— and find success. I had the chance to speak with Rick about his work, his new book. We dove deep into the concept of intuition and how harnessing your intuition may be the key to unlocking your next big move. In this episode you'll learn: What Rick does How Rick defines "intuition" Rick's work journey One secret successful entrepreneurs share Rick's personal experience of career transitions How to use intuition to guide your career change How to know if it is intuition that you are feeling (and not something else) The key to knowing intuition How Rick has navigated seasons of uncertainty How to trust the deeper intelligence that we all have About Rick's new book The three dimension of intuition How to describe the outcome of the intuitive business How to make decisions in an intuitive way Signs or language of intuition Intuition vs practicality How to start practicing decisions with intuition How to test your calling Rick’s mission in the world Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/11472269
info_outline
From Pastor to Design Firm Owner with Raj Lulla
09/17/2019
From Pastor to Design Firm Owner with Raj Lulla
One of the best parts about running a podcast and blog are the connections it helps you make and the people you're able to meet. If you're on my email list, you'll know that I often ask you to hit reply. I read every email that comes in, and some of those emails turn into conversations and friendships. Raj Lulla is one of those friendships. He started following the Meaning Movement a long time ago when he was in a transitional period of life. I'll let him tell the story, but it was so fun to have Raj on the show, and hear many of the moves he made to get to where he is today. Raj is a writer and partner at Fruitful Design, a design and marketing firm based in Omaha, Nebraska. Listen in to Raj's story. I think you'll enjoy it. In this episode you'll learn: What Raj does How he got into the work he's doing now His work journey What he did after realizing that ministry work is not a good fit for him How his father influenced him to be a writer How he discovered his marketable skills How he survived losing his job during the recession What was his first step toward creative business How he made his hobbies into a job Things that helped him during his transitions The role of the Meaning Movement in his journey Raj talks about meaning, purpose, calling, and passion His message on how to become a professional or an artist His thoughts on rewriting your story and where to start What to do when you are in moments of crisis Raj shares a bit of the novel he created Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/11268755
info_outline
Using Film to Change the World with Lisa Russell
09/06/2019
Using Film to Change the World with Lisa Russell
Lisa Russell is a humanitarian filmmaker and UN/NGO Storyteller. In her words, her work "lies at the intersection of arts, social justice and global development." I love that, because I love intersections, particularly the intersections of such important things. I also love it because it's so specific. Lisa isn't making summer blockbuster entertainment films. She's making films that tell the truth about people and issues in ways that other people are not. Though she didn't set out to be a filmmaker, she's found a way to create a career in a genre that she is pioneering. Lisa's a creative force and was so much fun to speak with. We talk about everything from the importance of storytelling, to the dedication that it takes to make it as an artist. I hope you'll enjoy this interview as much as I did. In this episode you'll learn: What Lisa does. How she ended up in her career. What experiences led her here. What factors she uses to make transition decisions. How she tested what she wanted to do. What’s the importance of “Time” for her? How she sees every experience she's had as necessary for what she does today. The transition from humanitarian based work to film making. What changes she is most proud of from working with the UN. The sacrifices has she had to make for her work. Her struggles working in the UN. Her future goals. Things that makes her working with the UN worthwhile and why she loves it. Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/11135612
info_outline
The Art of Mindful Service with Stefan Ravalli
08/21/2019
The Art of Mindful Service with Stefan Ravalli
What does mindfulness and meditation have to do with hospitality, restaurants, and service? For Stefan Ravalli the answer is everything. After digging deep into the service world through bartending and craft cocktails, Stefan slowly found himself being invited to more— more than just performance, more than just entertainment, more than just making good drinks. A journey of exploration that took him around the globe and deep into studying meditation practice eventually brought him back full circle— to service as a means a test lab and practice space for mindfulness. Not only that, but he's come to discover that the best service comes through full presence and involves pure action in the moment. Stefan today is still in service and also works to help other service professionals and service minded people through his project and podcast, Serve Conscious. In this episode you'll learn: What Stefan does How he views hospitality work What are the other sub-categories people should think about in terms of hospitality work. How he ended up in this career Who mentored him and inspire him to be better in his career Things he did that made him alienate himself from people The big transitions in his career Who taught him meditation What meditation made him realize The benefits he's gained from meditation How to become a meditation teacher How the tea ceremony was introduced to him The jobs he's had along the way What is the art of service? What is serve conscious? His obstacles to becoming hospitable. What he has gains from these obstacles How he deal with negative customers How difficulty and tension benefit you How to know when difficulty is too much How to know when to break out of a job The benefit of paying attention to where you invest your energy How he found his inspiration in bartending Show notes:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/10293599
info_outline
Defining Your Own Success with Paul Jarvis
08/06/2019
Defining Your Own Success with Paul Jarvis
Paul Jarvis is a designer, developer, author, podcaster, and much more. I've been following his work for years online. He just wrote a book that challenges us to think about success, what we want, and how we build careers, projects, and companies in pursuit of those ideals. Paul and I dig into things like money, partnerships, and how to know when to quit. A super fun conversation. What I love about Paul is his authenticity when it comes to his work. He knows who he is and what he wants, and makes sure that his business supports both of those things. In this episode you'll learn: What does Paul does? Has Paul always imagined him doing this kind of work? How does he keep his focus? Where did Paul start his journey? What are some of the big moves that brought him to where he is? What was his process from being an employee to becoming self-employed? The difficulties and obstacles that Paul has faced. Paul talks about his latest book. How to determine success for yourself? How to know you’re in-charge of the work you are doing? How to become an entrepreneur? What Paul thinks about the meaning, purpose and life’s work? How projects are motivated by money and motivated by meaning? How Paul tests his ideas? When to call it quits on projects? Show notes:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/10142019
info_outline
The Decay of Meaning and What To Do Next with Laura Simms
07/23/2019
The Decay of Meaning and What To Do Next with Laura Simms
What happens when you come to the point with your work where you ask: is this what I want anymore? Maybe it was a dream job at one point. Maybe it was something you want to school for and have worked hard to attain. Maybe it’s just where you ended up. Regardless of how you’ve gotten here, the questions are the same: is this what I want? If not than what? How will I find out? What will I have to do? Can I even make that kind of change? These are the kind of things I got to dig into with my guest today, Laura Simms. The moment I found Laura’s site, I knew we had to speak. We’re working on the same problem and using much of the same language. In this interview we dig into her process of going from being a professional actor to what she does now: helping people find work that feels like home. She offers some of her framework for thinking about these big questions and gives us some great places to dig in and start finding traction. I found Laura to be so open and easy to talk to. Our time went by so fast. I hope you enjoy her as much as I did. In this episode you'll learn: How to find a meaningful career? What is Laura's career focus? How she identified what she wanted to do? Where she was in her career when she took a pivot? What questions she asked herself in that lead her to make a change? What is the “Decay of Meaning” for Laura? Laura's thoughts about giving up her dream. How she answered the question, “Is this what I want?” What are “Through Lines” and what do they have to do with your journey? Why people fear change? How to handle career regrets? Who Laura works with? How she defines Meaning in life? The difference between a skill and a strength. How to find the right passion that pays? What "Building the life that you want" means? Her words of wisdom for the people who want to get started. Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/10193318
info_outline
Changing Focus with Growth with Jay Grandin
07/09/2019
Changing Focus with Growth with Jay Grandin
Jay Grandin is a founding partner of GiantAnt— a film and animation studio. He didn't set out to start a company. He didn't even plan to pursue film and animation. But one thing lead to another and a quirky thing he did with his girlfriend eventually become a business and career. Jay's story has many twists and turns that resonated with me, from the uncertainty of a new endeavor, to the struggle with purpose as a creative as his business grew. In this episode you'll learn: What Jay does? How long has his studio been around? How he started his business? What his previous career was? How he found himself creating online content? How his parents influenced his career path? Where his practice of saying “Yes” took him? What are the pivotal moments in this journey? How he made decisions in those pivotal moments? Has he ever wanted to go back to his office job? How he keeps his business phone ringing? Details about working together as a couple. What kind of content is he is creating now? Who are the clients his studio is working with? What is the most meaningful part of what he does? How has his role shifted as his company has evolved? How he handle his whole team and the company? What words of wisdom he could offer for us listeners?
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/10190840
info_outline
Money, Debt, & Identity with Cait Flanders
06/25/2019
Money, Debt, & Identity with Cait Flanders
When Cait Flanders decided to stop spending money for a year, everything changed. What started as a personal experiment with money, turned into a transformational journey and ultimately a book deal. Today on the podcast, I dig into that experience with Cait, along with things like money, debt, and how important it is to define success for yourself, your work, and especially your money. I was floored by Cait's honesty at so many moments in the interview— as I'm sure you'll hear. She speaks the truth with humility and courage. I left feeling very moved and inspired, and think you will too. In this episode you'll learn: What Cait does? How she gets to do the amazing things she does How to be a great freelance writer Her journey to become a full-time freelancer What she did before writing How to talk about finances with family How she looks at debt and having debt Reasons why we don't talk about debt How she faced her debt head-on How to start the journey of dealing with debt Cait's view on a balanced approach towards saving Why she doesn’t save 20% of her income How writing her book shaped her thoughts about spending money How Cait deals with money now Important questions you should ask yourself before spending What are the things Cait buys now that differ from the past Why and when to buy things What do calling, career, and passion mean for Cait? What is the sense of writing of what it is she has to say? What is her advice for people who are facing personal debt? Show notes at: https://www.themeaningmovement.com/cait/
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/10192985
info_outline
Let Your Heartbreak Guide You with Shawn Askinosie
06/11/2019
Let Your Heartbreak Guide You with Shawn Askinosie
Chocolatier, Lawyer, and Monk. These are distinct and separate roles and titles, some of which Shawn has held in the past and holds now. Shawn is the founder of Askinosie chocolate, a chocolate factory that practices direct trade, profit sharing with farmers, as well as a variety of social endeavors. He is also the author of a fantastic book called, Meaningful Work: A Quest to Do Great Business, Find Your Calling, and Feed Your Soul— a book that everyone listening is likely to enjoy. We got to dig into his journey into chocolate, his thoughts on vocation and how to find it, and the important distinction between doing and being. In this episode you’ll learn: What does Shawn do? What is the difference between being and doing? What is the challenge to him by a monastery brother? How to determine our true self? How did he arrive to where he is now in life? What was the beginning of his pivotal moment? Shawn shared a bit of his book and suggest how to use it. His words to offer for the people who are lost like th Shawn before. Suggestion to the people who are asking what to do next. What is our greatest joy? What is the questions to ask yourself if you are in a struggling stage? His message to a religious person and the other. How to discern the moments of calling? What is the Paschal mystery? How to turn suffering to calling? How he prepares when AI take over most of the jobs? His vision for his chocolate factory? How to pursue your personal vocation and still work or do business? Shawn shares some of his vocations. Why he strives to create the best taste of his chocolate? What is the myth in the social entrepreneur of today? Why wouldn’t he trade what he does today to going back as a lawyer that earns more? What are the questions that Shawn suggest that helps? Show notes at: https://www.themeaningmovement.com/shawn
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/10121033
info_outline
Art, Work, and Life with Ileana Haberman
09/17/2018
Art, Work, and Life with Ileana Haberman
Ileana Haberman is an artist and small business owner. She loves her art. In her words, her art is what she has to do— she doesn't have a choice. And her business supports her art and allows her a life where she gets to create art. I found her perspective refreshing. I love hearing from creative about the creative process and what brings them back to their art. I really enjoyed hearing Ileana process why she creates and what it does for her. It's really quite beautiful. In this episode you'll learn: - What Ileana does? - What is the intriguing part of what she does she enjoys? - Does she consider herself as an artist? - What is the hindrance that keeps her from doing what she loves? - When did her interest in art begin? - How she got started doing embroidery? - What is the inspiration for the work? - How does she choose what to create? - Why did she change her name? - How can she balance making ends meet and making art? - What is the effect of her art to her daily living? - She shares why she loves art. - How she deals with self-censorship. - How she uses her art and experiences to mold and teach her pre-school students about life? - What are her hopes in her arts? - What is "the successful life" for Ileana? Show notes at:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/7056372
info_outline
From Acting to Coaching with Michelle Ward
07/13/2018
From Acting to Coaching with Michelle Ward
Michelle Ward helps creative women build businesses and do work they love. She didn’t always have this career goal in mind. Her younger years were spent in pursuit of one thing: theater. But she eventually got to the point when she needed to make a change. That eventually lead her to where she is today. And she’s really good at what she does. I love Michelle’s approachable and fun loving disposition. She’s the kind of woman who you want in your corner as an aspiring or growing business owner. She tells it like it is, but in a way that doesn’t hurt. In this episode you'll learn: What does Michelle do? What brought her to this career? How were her growing up years? What experience prompted her to leave a bad boss? Her journey into coaching. Her wisdom for those who are on their breaking point. What you should do if you want to go from employee to a business owner. How to find the meaningful work for you. What we usually do that will not help us find what we want in the future. How to start your dream. How to grieve the loss of your dream. What practices or method of grief Michelle would advice? How to categorize what you can do so people could easily know your specific capability? How she presents herself to get specific clients? When to say "Yes" and "No" to a client? Michelle shares points on what to take note so that you'll know if this work or business is for you. What gets in the way of people's dream during the transition? What services does Michelle offer on her site? Show notes: themeaningmovement.com/michelle
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/6804741
info_outline
How Mindset Changes Everything with Caitlin Pyle
05/16/2018
How Mindset Changes Everything with Caitlin Pyle
Like many of us, Caitlin Pyle started a very important journey in her life in an unexpected way. She lost her job. As with every great story, it always begin with an inciting incident. This was Caitlin’s. What happened next is what matters the most: she took what she knew, leaned into it, and scaled up, and up, and up. Today Caitlin is a tremendously successful online entrepreneur, blogger, podcaster. She’s the founder of Proofread Anywhere, the Work at Home School, which I was lucky to be a part of, Work at home Heros, and so much more. My conversation with Caitlin was exactly what I needed. If I were to summarize our conversation in one word it’s mindset. Mindset. Mindset. Caitlin shares some of the major shifts in mindset that allowed her to go from where she was to where she is today, and invites us all to redefine ourselves, our work, and what we think is possible for us. This is a show that I will be going back to and listening in again. It’s that important. You’re in for a treat! In this episode you'll learn: How Caitlin found herself doing online proofreading. How Caitlin overcame many challenges she faced in her journey. How Caitlin turned her job into a proofreading business. What doubts she struggled with and how she dealt with them. A glimpse of what she's achieved in her business today. Her advice to herself. Some of her money mindset. What are the necessary mindset shifts about making money? What should you do to start making money with your skills? What makes her satisfied with her work? What is her morning routine to start the day? How to make a game out of bad habits to change them. How to prevent burnout on your job. How Caitlin grows her business and team. How to find the things that you want to do? Shownotes:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/6600364
info_outline
Millenials and How to Be an Adult (at any age!) with Paul Angone
05/01/2018
Millenials and How to Be an Adult (at any age!) with Paul Angone
Paul Angone has something to say to 20-somethings, but not just 20-somethings. He has something to say to anyone who is in some sort of transition. If you’re asking questions like, What’s next? Who am I? What am I doing with my life?— he has something to say to you. Paul Angone is an author, speaker, and consultant with a two-fold focus, on one hand, he helps organizations understand the needs and desires of today’s younger generations. On the other, he helps people navigate the biggest career and life questions. He writes at AllGroanup.com and is the author of 101 Secrets for your Twenties, All Groan up, and his newest work, 101 Questions you need to ask in Your Twenties. In this episode you'll learn: How to know if you are a millennial? Why is it important that companies understand Millennials and vice versa? What is the age people most struggle? Why is Paul so passionate about helping others? What is the biggest struggle we face as adults? How did this passion begin for Paul? Do all people go through transition crisis? What is the importance of transitions in our lives? Paul shares his guidance on how to navigate transitions. What are the different questions you ask when you are in a transition? Why you need to get lost to explore. Paul shares about his latest book. Paul also shares some of the rejections he received in his journey. Paul shares what he learned from being rejected. Show notes:
/episode/index/show/themeaningmovement/id/6545472