Gino Cordone

E17 The Power of Connection with Karolyn Johnson

Community, Entrepreneur, Mental Health /

Stream on: Apple Spotify The Power of Connection In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Karolyn Johnson, a passionate therapist and co-owner of a group practice that focuses on fostering authentic connections through therapy and workshops. Karolyn’s journey is one of unwavering determination, evolution, and the pursuit of meaningful connections both personally and professionally. Having come from a background in sales, Karolyn found her calling through a gradual transition from a stable, yet unfulfilling job to a profession that aligned with her convictions and aspirations. Her experiences in sales allowed her to understand the diverse needs of people and corporations, imparting invaluable skills that she carries into her role as a therapist today. Karolyn’s devotion to authenticity and genuine connection transcends her work life and permeates her personal relationships. She finds solace in strong, deep friendships and believes in creating a professional network that closely resembles her circle of friends. Furthermore, her commitment to promoting her colleagues’ work and events showcases her belief in collaboration over competition, underscoring the transformative power of shared knowledge and support within an industry. As a business owner, Karolyn exemplifies the significance of embracing one’s authentic self. Her partnership with a colleague of 14 years was rooted in a pre-existing, deep connection, and their complementary strengths ensure a balanced and supportive professional relationship. This dynamic exemplifies her belief in making decisions based on feelings and genuine connections, rather than solely on logic. Karolyn highlights the importance of pursuing passion projects alongside business goals, as she firmly believes that these endeavors enhance her professional work. Her dedication to running a podcast and engaging in projects that inspire her serves as a testament to this philosophy. In her personal life, Karolyn finds immeasurable joy in motherhood, cherishing her role as a mother and celebrating the rewarding experiences it brings. Her excitement about an upcoming summer vacation with her daughters underscores her devotion to nurturing genuine connections in all aspects of her life. Later on in the episode we talk about Karolyn’s decision to work with a business coach. She meticulously researched and consulted with several coaches, ultimately choosing the first one she spoke with, despite initial discomfort. This decision epitomizes her value of trust and the importance she places on developing genuine relationships, both personally and in business. Karolyn Johnson’s story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing authenticity and seeking meaningful connections. Her unwavering commitment to fostering genuine relationships, both personally and professionally, serves as an inspiring example for all of us as we continue working toward our individual purposes.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “I can say definitively that I am my authentic being in the therapy room. I bring my personality into that space, and I truly believe it’s what allows me to so deeply connect with my clients.” Karolyn Johnson Topics in this episode: Valuing boldness, directness, and relationship-building Commitment to authenticity and values Believing in collaboration over competition Understanding the role of human connection for survival Recognizing the vulnerability that comes with connection Learning to set boundaries and embrace their true self Working with a business coach for the first time Valuing passion projects alongside business goals Being a mother and finding it the most rewarding experience Finding, trusting, and utilizing a business coach  Bio: Karolyn Johnson Karolyn Johnson is a devoted mother and passionate therapist. Despite not having a background in psychology, she made the bold decision to pursue a career in therapy and found it to be her true calling. Karolyn finds joy and fulfillment in sitting with clients, helping them navigate their challenges and grow personally. She believes in staying curious and invested in life, constantly evolving and learning. Karolyn is also a sister and daughter to her loving family, who she often spends quality time with. Alongside her partner Raya, she owns a group practice called Connected, Seen, and Heard, which aims to create authentic connections and transformative experiences for individuals. Through their practice, they offer individual, couples, and family therapy, as well as in-person workshops and trainings to bring people together and foster the power of genuine connection. Connect with Karolyn:  Connected seen and heard website Connected Seen and Heard IG Connecting the Collective Podcast

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E16 Networking for Success with Vannesa Moreno

Entrepreneur, Leaving Corporate /

Stream on: Apple Spotify Networking For Success In this episode, Vanessa shared her journey from feeling unfulfilled in her previous job to becoming a successful entrepreneur while also juggling personal challenges.  Vanessa’s story began in a male-dominated industry where she felt her ambitions were not taken seriously. This led her to look for something else.  At the same time she discovered CBD after finding a way to help her anxieties. Her openness about her struggles and triumphs provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by minority entrepreneurs and the importance of resilience and self-care. This podcast sheds light on the impact of the CBD industry and a look inside what a franchise model is, providing valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs who may be considering venturing into this field.  She debunks some common CBD myths and explains some of the various benefits CBD can have on the body, and how it’s helped her personally.   Vanessa’s journey also highlighted the crucial role of setting boundaries, both in personal and professional life. As she navigates the complexities of entrepreneurship, she emphasizes the importance of seeking therapy to establish healthy boundaries, especially with customers who may misinterpret friendliness. This discussion resonates with many who struggle with similar challenges and underscores the importance of self-care and seeking support. The episode also touches on the significance of recognizing when a current situation no longer aligns with our aspirations. Vanessa’s decision to leave her previous job and pursue her own business serves as a powerful reminder that it’s okay to acknowledge limitations and seek new opportunities for growth. One of the primary takeaways from the episode is the significance of networking. Vanessa discovered the power of making connections through virtual networking events and local chambers of commerce. Through networking, she not only gained confidence but also educated her community about CBD and debunked misconceptions, contributing to the well-being of those around her. In conclusion, Vanessa not only provides a glimpse into the world of CBD but also offers valuable life lessons on resilience, self-care, and the power of networking. It is a testament to the strength and determination of individuals who work towards their purpose, even amidst adversity.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “I reached a point that I was not happy where I was working. I noticed that it was affecting my relationships, even with the people that I was working with, it was a very stressful environment.” Vannesa Moreno Topics in this episode: Feeling undermined in a male-dominated work culture and lack of growth opportunities The challenges of thinking positively when things don’t go as expected Setting boundaries in personal and professional life, with a focus on dealing with customers Facing challenges as a minority entrepreneur Introduction to CBD and its benefits for humans and pets Tips for networking and getting started Personal and business challenges faced in 2021, including the impact of COVID and becoming a single mom Franchise opportunity, and the support provided to franchisees Bio: Vannesa Moreno Vanessa Moreno is the owner of the Your CBD store in North Haven, which she opened over three and a half years ago. Her journey into the CBD industry began when she was working as a sales administrator at a company that resells and recycles used tires. Dealing with a lot of stress, anxiety, and panic attacks, a friend introduced her to CBD products which worked wonders for her. Encouraged by her friend and his wife, who were in the CBD industry, Vanessa decided to open her own CBD store. She saw this as the perfect opportunity to fulfill her desire of having her own business and help others. Today, Vanessa is proud to be a part of the largest CBD retailer and franchise in the country.  She is also a familiar face in the New Haven entrepreneur community being an expert networker.  Connect with Vannesa:  YourCBDstore on Facebook Find Vannesa on LinkedIn Follow YourCBDstore on IG

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E15 A Quick Check-In

Solo /

Stream on: Apple Spotify A Quick Check In Today I just have a quick check in.  To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. Topics in this episode: Just a quick check in Bio: Gino Cordone Gino Cordone is the host of the podcast Working Towards Our Purpose, where he interviews people who have found their purpose. He encourages and inspires his listeners to listen to the voice in the back of their heads asking for something more in their lives. In addition to hosting the podcast, Gino also runs Pleasant Podcasts where he helps others launch their own podcasts. Through his work, Gino aims to help others find their own path towards working in their own purpose. Join him on this journey of self-discovery and inspiration. Connect with Gino:  Follow my SubStack Follow me on IG pleasantpodcasts.com 

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E14 Navigating the Many Sides of Marketing with Kendall Egan

Entrepreneur /

Stream on: Apple Spotify Navigating the Many Sides of Marketing I sat down with marketing guru Kendall Egan to discuss the intricate blend of data and intuition in making marketing decisions. Kendall’s insights shed light on the significance of leveraging both aspects to design effective marketing campaigns and target the right audience. The discussion delved into Kendall’s approach to targeting specific audience segments based on factors such as household income and neighborhood type. Notably, the use of market research to inform design decisions was highlighted, along with the essential practice of questioning whether the outcomes align with one’s intuition. This holistic perspective underscores the need for collaboration with other companies to create designs that resonate with the identified target market. A core theme of the episode is the iterative process of formulating hypotheses and testing them using available data prior to making major decisions. It was underscored how the ability to swiftly pivot and adapt based on campaign analytics and reactions is crucial, ultimately leading to the advantage of being able to design and advertise products before investing in inventory. Notably, the conversation turned towards the fascinating advancements in AI tools, with Kendall sharing her experience of leveraging AI tools to create art for blogs. While AI tools have proven valuable in generating background information, Kendall expressed skepticism regarding the likelihood of AI replacing copywriters or writers in general due to the basic and lacking creativity of AI-generated content.  Examples such as Canva, a platform automating text generation and social media post creation, were cited as testaments to the democratization of graphic design, making it accessible to a wider audience. Emphasizing the importance of content to showcase one’s value proposition and facilitate engagement with the target audience, the episode underscored the necessity of tailoring content to different platforms and maintaining a consistent brand voice. Kendall’s journey from sales at CBS to freelancing, completing an MBA, and working in various startups illuminates the dynamic nature of career progression in the marketing landscape. The integral role of customer acquisition, marketing, and partnership development in their current project solidifies their position as a seasoned marketing professional. The episode underscored the essential foundations of customer acquisition and brand marketing, emphasizing the crucial role played by digital marketing techniques in today’s landscape. Notably, the significance of continuous testing, iterating, and analyzing results in developing effective messaging and effectively targeting the right audience was reinforced, along with the importance of understanding the customer and their persona for tailored messaging.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “I believe that the key to being found and engaging with your target audience is using content to showcase your value proposition.” Kendall Egan Topics in this episode: Importance of developing brand identity for small businesses Identifying target audience, voice, and points of differentiation Understanding customer persona for effective messaging and customer acquisition Data and analytics in marketing decision-making Customer acquisition and brand building in marketing Digital marketing strategies and platforms Utilizing degenerative AI tools for content creation Importance of data and intuition in decision-making Formulating hypotheses and testing them with data Bio: Kendall Egan Kendall Egan is a seasoned marketing professional with a diverse background in sales, marketing, and startup ventures. Stemming from a career that includes roles in corporate America, freelance work, and ownership of a startup. Kendall brings a wealth of experience in customer acquisition strategy, brand building, and digital marketing. With a deep understanding of harnessing the power of social media platforms and the intricacies of small business marketing, Kendall’s expertise lies in developing strong messaging, creating engaging marketing materials, and utilizing data and analytics to drive effective marketing campaigns.  Connect with Kendall:  Boxx website Follow Kendall on LinkedIn Follow Boxx on IG

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E13 More Like a Dart Than a Feather with Saint Phifer

Art, Mental Health /

Stream on: Apple Spotify More Like a Dart Than a Feather SAINT Phifer is an enigmatic abstract artist, and in this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose we have a thought-provoking conversation that delves into the deep well of personal growth, creative inspiration, and the power of building meaningful connections within a community. Our discussion kicks off with the concept of networking, with both SAINT and I advocate for as a way for community building.  He emphasizes the importance of genuine connections and meaningful conversations over traditional networking, a sentiment that reverberates through the entire episode. SAINT offers a refreshingly poignant definition of success, one that transcends the conventional markers of wealth and status. For him, success lies in being the best version of himself, being present, and prioritizing his son. This emphasis on personal growth and meaningful connections sets the stage for a conversation that goes beyond the surface and delves into the depths of authentic fulfillment. The narrative unfolds to reveal SAINT’s journey of self-discovery, from the challenges of feeling different and seeking knowledge in his formative years to the pivotal moments that shaped his artistic path. His resilience in the face of adversity, coupled with his unwavering pursuit of personal development, serves as an inspiring testament to the transformative power of curiosity and self-exploration. The episode is punctuated by SAINT’s profound insights into the value of time over money and the importance of saying no to anything that does not contribute to personal growth. A pivotal moment arises as he unveils his future plans, including organizing a group art show and embracing his identity as an artist. Through all this, his dedication to remaining a student of life and consistently seeking different perspectives emerges as a guiding principle. SAINT also touches on the practice of meditation as a tool for harnessing creativity and maintaining mental well-being. His perspective on the significance of clarity and mental space in nurturing artistic endeavors resonates with my journey, offering a shared understanding of the transformative power of self-care and introspection. A defining moment arrives as SAINT shares his deep-rooted inspiration from his late parents, weaving their resilience and positivity into the tapestry of his art. I noticed the profound impact of SAINT’s mother on his work, shining a light on the enduring legacy that permeates his creations. The importance of honoring and continuing their story through his art becomes a poignant testament to the profound influence of familial connections. As the episode draws to a close, SAINT’s unwavering commitment to personal growth and community-building leaves an indelible mark. The artful intertwining of personal anecdotes, introspective wisdom, and the power of genuine connections shapes the narrative, inviting listeners to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and creative expression. As SAINT’s mesmerizing narrative reverberates through the airwaves, a resounding message emerges – the pursuit of purpose is not merely a solitary journey, but a collective endeavor fueled by curiosity, resilience, and the power of building a community.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “It’s like, this is a lifestyle for me now, and I love this thing. I’m glad I got presented with this gift, and I’m like, cherishing every moment and, doing my due diligence.” Saint Phifer Topics in this episode: Facing personal challenges like the loss of parents at a young age Discovering a passion for painting in 2018 as a means of battling depression and suicidal thoughts Dedication to Art as a Lifestyle Personal growth through learning and seeking knowledge Influence of a mother’s positivity and strength  Genuine conversations and connections in building a community Emphasizing the importance of self-care Using curiosity to see things differently Importance of being true to oneself and acting as a pillar of strength Using meditation for mental health and creative development Bio: Saint Phifer SAINT was born in White Plains, New York and later moved to Norwalk, Connecticut as a child. Growing up as the only child, he faced the loss of his father at the age of 9 and his mother at the age of 21. Despite these hardships, SAINT found solace in sports, particularly football, and later discovered his passion for art. He is now a proud father to a 17-year-old son. SAINT’s attributes a difficult night to the discovery of his artistic gifts which are a testament to his resilience and determination. Connect with SAINT:  Follow Saint Phifer on IG Follow WABI Art on IG

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E12 Using Tai Chi to Find Balance with Shirley Chock

Entrepreneur, Leaving Corporate /

Stream on: Apple Spotify Using Tai Chi to Find Balance Shirley Chock, the owner of the iPing Tai Chi School in Milford, Connecticut is known as the “stress bender.” But she didn’t always own a Tai Chi studio.  She used to have a successful corporate career in finance.  In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, Shirley sheds light on finding purpose, pursuing entrepreneurship, and the power of mindset. Shirley Chock’s career journey is a testament to the transformation that can occur when we choose to listen to our instincts and pursue our true calling. After a successful career in finance, Shirley discovered the stress-relieving benefits of Tai Chi and made a courageous decision to transition from the corporate world to the realm of stress management and mindfulness. The conversation touches on the pivotal moment when Shirley recognized the need to bring the stress-relieving practice of Tai Chi to a broader audience. Her ability to adapt and innovate in the wake of the pandemic’s challenges led her to take her classes online, leveraging platforms like Twitch, TikTok, and Instagram to build a global community and share her stress management techniques. Shirley emphasizes the importance of mindset and the need to tune into our body’s internal compass. Her insights highlight the significance of sensory awareness and decision-making, especially in a world increasingly reliant on technology. She encourages listeners to pay attention to the signals their bodies are sending, as they often serve as valuable pointers on how to navigate life’s challenges. As the episode unfolds, Shirley’s thoughtful approach to entrepreneurship becomes evident. Her deliberate planning and calculated financial exit from her previous career exemplify the dedication required to pursue a purpose-driven business. The conversation also emphasizes the shift in mindset necessary to value content creation as an integral aspect of business operations, a key lesson for aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners. The episode ultimately inspires introspection and reflection, prompting one to consider their own purpose and the role of mindset in navigating life’s transitions. As Shirley Chock embodies the concept of “Working Towards Our Purpose,” her journey serves as a source of motivation and encouragement for anyone seeking to align their professional endeavors with their true calling.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “So when you’re a new entrepreneur, just factor that in, you have to give yourself a cushion because the last thing that you want to do is to give up before you had a chance to even get off the ground.” Shirley Chock Topics in this episode: The importance of listening to one’s senses The existential question of why we exist and emphasizes the need to uncover the reason for our existence, independent of societal expectations the importance of using Tai Chi to connect with the body’s internal compass and overcome fear-driven rationalization by the mind Leaving a corporate career to follow an entrepreneurial endeavor  mindset shift required to value content as a crucial aspect of business operations Gaining a large following on platforms like Twitch, TikTok, and Instagram The importance of purpose over passion in entrepreneurship Bio: Shirley Chock Shirley Chock never planned on becoming a Tai Chi teacher or a content creator, but life circumstances led her in that direction. She has always lived by following her gut and choosing the things that felt right to her. Despite having a successful corporate finance career, she unexpectedly found herself in the world of Tai Chi when she took over a Tai Chi leaving her corporate career behind.  Then the pandemic hit, and her in person studio had to close forcing her to think of new ways to teach Tai Chi.  This led her to Twitch where she started holding her classes, creating content, and eventually having online courses.  Shirley proves that you never know where life will lead you.  Connect with Shirley:  Aiping Tai Chi Website Follow her on IG Follow her on TikTok Follow her on Twitch

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E11 How to Balance Multiple Businesses with Michael Shawn Carbaugh

Entrepreneur /

Stream on: Apple Spotify How to Balance Multiple Businesses Michael Shawn Carabaugh is a man of many pursuits.  In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, he shared his experiences in running a game cafe, being a pastor at a church, giving guitar lessons, and developing a multi-use studio, providing valuable insights into balancing a myriad of responsibilities. Carabaugh’s approach to managing his extensive workload involves prioritizing his various businesses and roles based on dedicated days for each, with structured breaks to maintain a balanced lifestyle. He emphasizes the importance of being honest about one’s priorities and life stage, advocating the use of to-do lists and focusing on the most crucial task each day to maximize productivity. One notable discussion point was the concept of the “flow state” and the importance of avoiding digital distractions. Michael emphasized the detrimental impact of constant notifications and email banners on productivity. Carabaugh shared his aversion to phone technology and his practice of tuning out distractions, cultivated from growing up in a loud, close-knit family. These insights shed light on the significance of creating a focused work environment to achieve peak performance. In addition to managing multiple roles, Carabaugh discussed his plans for Unison Studios, a multi-use studio space designed to address pain points for freelance musicians. This venture aims to provide rentable rooms for music teachers to conduct lessons and facilitate creativity and collaboration, offering a solution to the challenges faced by music educators. Furthermore, the episode delved into Carabaugh’s journey of starting Unison Games Cafe, a venture borne out of his passion for comics and trading card games. His pivot into the gaming industry, sparked by a desire to bring the community together through organized play and game tournaments, illustrates the dynamic nature of pursuing purpose-driven ventures. Michael not only highlighted the complexity of managing multiple roles but also underscored the transformative power of pursuing projects with a meaningful impact. Carabaugh’s dedication to making a difference in the community through his businesses and educational endeavors is a testament to the theme of purpose and impact, which is at the core of this podcast. Overall, our conversation conveyed a profound message about the importance of finding one’s rhythm for productivity, effectively managing digital distractions, and pursuing ventures that align with one’s purpose and values. Listeners were inspired by Carabaugh’s journey and gain valuable insights into time management, the cultivation of a focused work environment, and the multifaceted nature of purpose-driven endeavors.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “Time management is not about fitting into someone else’s box, but finding your own rhythm and productivity.” Michael Shawn Carbaugh Topics in this episode: Finding one’s rhythm for productivity Working on tasks in decreasing increments of time and taking breaks Addressing pain points for freelance musicians Unison Studios and Multi-Use Studio Space Integrating Music Degree with Church Work Starting Unison Games Cafe with a Business Partner Importance of purpose, community, and making an impact Lowering the barrier to entry for individuals wanting to start a podcast Challenges and benefits of having a business partner Bio: Michael Shawn Carbough Michael Shawn Carabaugh attended Cedarville University in Ohio, where he studied music with a minor in bible at the liberal arts school. Despite encouragement to pursue a worship major, he remained determined to focus on classical music, feeling it was important to his future as a pastor and music writer.  He is not only a pastor at Pond Hill Church, but also leads the music there.  He also opened a gaming cafe with a partner Unison Games Cafe in Hamden, CT.  His next project, a multi-use studio, where he will offer music lessons, a podcast studio and a music studio. Connect with Michael Shawn:  Unison Games Café Unison Studios Unison Church Pond Hill Church

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E10 The Importance of Boundaries with Barb Nangle

Community, Entrepreneur, Mental Health /

Stream on: Apple Spotify The Importance of Boundaries Are you struggling to navigate your career and life choices while feeling the pressure to conform to societal expectations? In my latest episode of “Working Towards Our Purpose,” I have a thought-provoking conversation with my friend Barb Nangle, a boundaries coach and founder of Higher Power Coaching. Throughout the episode, Barb shares her personal journey of self-discovery, touching on the transformative power of setting boundaries, aligning with personal values, and ultimately living a purpose-driven life. Barb Nangle’s story is a testament to the profound impact that embracing one’s unique values and establishing healthy boundaries can have on personal and professional growth. Her journey began with a realization of her codependency and a willingness to seek help through a 12-step recovery program. This pivotal decision led her to experience profound transformation and inspired her to bring the wisdom and tools of recovery to others, eventually leading her to become a boundaries coach. Barb’s insights shed light on the significance of setting boundaries, not only with others but also with oneself. She emphasizes the concept of “boundaries of self-containment,” addressing negative self-talk and gossiping, and their impact on personal and professional dynamics.  She shares her journey from being laid off to delving into entrepreneurship, highlighting her early uncertainties and eventual success as a boundaries coach. Her experience in developing a coaching program based on her personal journey and repurposing podcast episodes into impactful content offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and coaches. Nangle’s proactive approach to managing her content creation as a solopreneur is equally commendable. From hiring a virtual assistant to seeking support from a CFO for hire and branding and marketing agencies, she exemplifies the benefits of strategic delegation and seeking help in areas outside of her expertise. As the episode progresses, Nangle imparts crucial advice on empowering individuals to live their lives on purpose. She underscores the pivotal role of setting boundaries, discovering personal values, and aligning with those values to live a life of integrity and wholeness. In doing so, she emphasizes that living a purpose-driven life is not about conforming to predefined purposes but about aligning with individual values. This episode serves as a source of inspiration and empowerment for individuals who are striving to navigate their own paths. Nangle’s valuable insights into the power of boundaries, personal values, and aligning with one’s unique purpose offer a roadmap for self-discovery and personal growth.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “When you learn something about yourself or you observe something about yourself that’s negative, think of it as info, not ammo. In other words, it’s information for you to learn, integrate, and grow from. It is not ammunition for you to beat yourself up.” Barb Nangle Topics in this episode: Experience with codependency, 12-step recovery programs, and profound change Setting boundaries, discovering personal values, and living in alignment with those values Emphasis on trauma recovery and re-parenting The Variety of 12-Step Recovery Programs Use of the Pomodoro technique for time management Managing all the different roles as a solopreneur   Hiring coaches for accountability and participation in a coaching program Transition from life coach to boundaries coach Different 12-step programs available beyond Alcoholics Anonymous Bio: Barb Nangle Barb Nangle, a 60-year-old woman, reached a codependent bottom at the age of 52. She realized that she was focusing too much on others for validation and was always trying to rescue, fix, and save people. She didn’t even know what codependency was until she hit rock bottom. At one point, she had even invited a homeless friend she met through church to stay at her home during a snowstorm, a behavior she now knows is not normal. This experience inspired her to make a change in her life and she began her journey of self-discovery and healing.  Now Barb is the founder of Higher Power Coaching where she teaches people to implement boundaries into their life.  She is also a the host of the podcast Fragmented to Whole, where she teaches lessons from 12-step recovery.    Connect with Barb:  Work with Barb Barb’s Podcast: Fragmented to Whole Follow Barb on IG

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E9 Life of a Startup with Trevor Huffard

Entrepreneur /

Stream on: Apple Spotify Life of a Startup In a world constantly evolving, embarking on a new journey and founding a startup can be an uncertain but exciting path. In my latest episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I sat down with entrepreneur and co-founder of Boxx, Trevor Huffard.  Trevor’s path began with a career that traversed diverse landscapes, from finance and investment banking, to the cutting edge of the voice over IP industry, and eventually to the world of construction and entrepreneurship. His journey stands testament to the inevitability of change and the importance of adapting to new opportunities. Boxx, an innovative startup, born during the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic, offers a unique solution to the remote work revolution. Specializing in prefabricated work-from-home pods constructed using advanced structural insulated panels (SIPs), Boxx provides an energy-efficient, cost-effective, and versatile workspace that caters to the evolving needs of the modern professional. What sets Boxx apart is its commitment to creating a workspace that transcends the confines of traditional office setups, offering a flexible environment that fosters productivity, wellness, and professionalism. Our conversation delves into Trevor’s unwavering dedication to forging a path that embodies the very essence of working towards a purpose. From navigating the challenges of startup life to the emotional rewards of creating something truly impactful, Trevor’s journey serves as an inspirational narrative for aspiring entrepreneurs and visionaries. One of the pivotal moments in our conversation shines a light on the value of collaboration, passion, and commitment to the shared purpose of empowering people to thrive in their workspaces. Trevor’s emphasis on the significance of building a stable organization that generates value for multiple stakeholders unveils the essence of a startup. Moreover, the episode delves into the importance of fostering an inclusive and empowering work culture, the art of motivating and managing employees, and the bold pursuit of creating a supportive environment where individuals can flourish. As Trevor shares his experiences, listeners gain valuable insights into the dynamics of building and nurturing a vibrant professional community. In a world brimming with change and innovation, Trevor Huffard’s journey with Boxx exemplifies the resounding commitment to purpose, resilience in the face of challenges, and the unwavering pursuit of meaningful impact.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “I decided I wanted to kinda look at what I wanted to do with the rest of my life, and I wanted to do something that I really enjoyed getting up every morning and doing.” Trevor Huffard Topics in this episode: Involvement in the voice over IP industry Challenges faced during the 2008-2009 housing crisis Trevor’s involvement in multiple startups, both successful and unsuccessful Use of structural insulated panels (SIPs) for energy efficiency Target market and potential applications for the work-from-home pods Importance of finding reliable partners and collaborators Impact of working from home on local communities Strategies for finding community at home Motivating and managing employees in a startup environment Risks involved in starting a business and leaving stable corporate jobs Challenges of marketing a new business and finding customers for the product Bio: Trevor Huffard Trevor Huffard is the founder of Boxx, an early stage startup company that was born out of the need for a separate, convenient workspace during the pandemic. Trevor has worked in various startups over the course of his career and now has founded his own.  With many people working from home during the Covid pandemic, Trevor saw the need for a space that was away from the house but didn’t require a long commute.  Trevor’s day job involves selling structural insulated panels (SIPs), which are energy efficient building materials for new homes and buildings.  With a passion for creating functional and efficient spaces, Trevor is dedicated to changing the way people live and work. Connect with Trevor: Visit Boxx Website  Follow Boxx on IG

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E8 What It’s Like Leaving Corporate with Mike Cordone

Leaving Corporate /

Stream on: Apple Spotify What it’s Like Leaving Corporate This is a special episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I got to interview my twin brother, Michael Cordone about his recent quitting of his corporate job to pursue his photography business.  The episode delves into both our experiences of feeling trapped in corporate environments, the transformative power of pursuing passion, and the critical importance of intentional decision-making in work and life. Michael Cordone’s journey began with a sense of uncertainty, as he felt propelled into the field of engineering without a clear understanding of what he truly desired. As a mechanical engineer working in HVAC design for high-end residential properties, he initially found himself questioning the fulfillment and purpose of his work.  His story reflects the prevalent societal narrative that often pushes individuals into predefined career paths, without considering their genuine aspirations. Michael reflections on his own experiences highlight the emotional toll and lack of fulfillment that can result from navigating traditional work structures without intentional decision-making. The conversation takes a pivotal turn as Michael shares his profound realization of the shortness of life and the value of spending time with loved ones when we started talking about the recent passing of our aunt. This awakening stirred an impassioned pursuit of his artistic inclination, leading him to give up his time demanding corporate job and into the world of photography. His decision to transition from engineering to photography underscores the transformative impact of embracing one’s true passions, even in the face of uncertainty and societal expectations. We discuss the complexities of our career transitions and the challenges associated with self-employment. We discuss the importance of maintaining work-life balance, managing distractions, and recognizing the significance of self-care amidst the demands of an entrepreneurial journey. Furthermore, the episode explores the resurgence of appreciating the human connection in photography, emphasizing the enduring value of printed photographs as cherished memories. Michael Cordone underscores the profound significance of establishing a personal connection with the subjects he captures, highlighting the irreplaceable emotional resonance that emanates from authentic interactions. Michael’s journey, from feeling trapped in the confines of conventional career expectations to thriving in the realm of photography, serves as a testament to the transformative power of embracing purpose and making intentional decisions in carving one’s own path. His unwavering commitment to his passion for photography serves as an inspiring example, illuminating the transformative potential that arises when individuals wholeheartedly pursue their genuine aspirations. The episode stands as a testament to the profound potential that unfolds when individuals courageously pursue their true purpose, transcending societal expectations and embracing the transformative power of intentionality in their work and personal journeys. It’s a unique perspective of talking to Michael freshly after leaving his corporate career.  Tune in to hear Michaels perspective and ambitions of his new path in life.   To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform. “Being stuck in a job for 40 hours is a significant portion of life. You realize you have such a limited time left.” Michael Cordone III Topics in this episode: Societal pressure to attend college and pursue specific careers Michael’s art interest suppressed by fear and conformity Managing anxiety and negative thoughts What it was like leaving a corporate job Valuing time with loved ones Exploring different avenues within photography Emphasizing genuine interactions for meaningful images Human Connection in Photography Embracing failure as a means of learning and growth Bio: Michael Cordone III Michael Cordone, formerly a mechanical engineer specializing in HVAC design for high-end residential buildings, decided to make a change to follow his passion for photography and do work more in alignment with his purpose. Deciding that the engineering field is not a place he wants to spend his energy anymore he decided to go full time on his photography business MC3 Photo.  Connect with Michael: Mike’s Website Check out Mike’s Instagram portfolio  Buy one of his awesome prints

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