Solo

E36 Progress Over Perfection: The Journey of Self-Compassion in Pursuit of Your Purpose

Stream on: Apple Spotify Progress Over Perfection: The Journey of Self-Compassion in Pursuit of Your Purpose In a world where instant gratification often takes precedence, it’s easy to fall into the trap of self-criticism and frustration when progress seems slow. In this solo episode of “Working Towards Our Purpose,” I delve into the idea of navigating new challenges and the importance of being kind to yourself throughout the process.  The Frustration of Slow Progress I share some personal experiences with feeling frustrated when progress appears to be lagging in some new endeavors I recently started. This frustration is a common feeling when I’m embarking on something new, as I often expect immediate results and success. However, this time I was recognizing that this is impatience and trying to reframe can be a helpful part of the learning process.   Self-Criticism Self-criticism can be a significant barrier to growth and success. Reflecting on how quickly I tend to judge myself harshly when facing challenges or setbacks, I believe acknowledging and challenging these negative self-talk patterns can help create a more positive and supportive mindset.  This episode is a reminder to me, or almost a conversation to myself as I understand these concepts intellectually, but still struggle with changing my thought patterns around them.  To counteract self-criticism and negative self talk with patience and grace with yourself is essential to recognize that learning something new takes time and effort. By giving ourselves permission to make mistakes and learn at our own pace, we can approach challenges with a more resilient and open mindset.   Overcoming Limiting Beliefs Limiting beliefs often hold us back from achieving our full potential. Self-imposed limitations, such as feeling inadequate or unworthy, can hinder our progress. By challenging these beliefs and cultivating self-compassion, we can break free from the constraints we place on ourselves and pursue our goals with greater confidence and determination.  As I navigate the ups and downs of my journey, I realize the importance of resilience and perseverance of not giving up. By acknowledging our struggles and setbacks while maintaining a positive outlook, we can continue moving forward with determination and resilience. Remember that progress is a journey, not a destination. As we strive towards our goals, let’s approach each step with kindness towards ourselves and a mindset focused on growth and resilience.   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 think it’s good sometimes to be hard on yourself. But I also think that if you’re doing it in a way that’s hindering you from accomplishing the task, then it almost seems pointless.”” Gino Cordone Topics in this episode: You get to decide what you’re known for How you perceive yourself differs from how others see you Pursuing passions and defining yourself Embracing uncomfortable challenges for personal growth You can shape your own narrative Bio: Gino Cordone Gino Cordone is the host of the podcast Working Towards Our Purpose, where he interviews people who are doing amazing work that inspires him. He aims to offer a different perspective on what a job can be and hopes to encourage others to find their own purpose in the things that they do. 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:  Buy some WTOP merch Follow me on IG pleasantpodcasts.com   

E36 Progress Over Perfection: The Journey of Self-Compassion in Pursuit of Your Purpose Read More »

E30 Shaping Your Narrative: The Empowerment of Deciding What You’re Known For

Stream on: Apple Spotify Shaping Your Narrative: The Empowerment of Deciding What You’re Known For In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose I discuss the power of deciding what you’re known for and how it can really be something that you choose.  In this solo episode, I reflect on a couple of messages that I’ve received from individuals who resonate with my journey. I explore the idea that we each have the agency to shape what we are known for.  After leaving my corporate job, I initially downplayed my engineering background, feeling that it didn’t align with my true passions, even being a bit embarrassed by it. However, through moments of vulnerability and transparency, I discovered that sharing my story helped me authentically connect with others who were also seeking purpose in their work and feeling stuck like I did. This act of choosing to openly share my journey has led to meaningful connections with people who found inspiration from my experiences and connections to their own. I think there is importance in authenticity sharing one’s own identity. I acknowledge the discomfort that comes with presenting oneself in such an open light, but the transformational power of vulnerability is a key to connection. I’ve been encouraged to embrace the discomfort and authentically of sharing my own story and in this episode I encourage you to do the same. A significant revelation I had in the episode stems from my original passion for music. Through a serendipitous project and a request from a friend, I found myself unexpectedly recognized as someone who works on music. This newfound recognition reinforced the idea that one’s perception of their abilities may differ from how others perceive them. It made me really want to put out there that I work on music and love to record and mix audio. I encourage listeners to explore the endless possibilities of defining their own identities. My personal journey exemplifies the freedom and empowerment that come with making conscious choices about how one is known and the work they engage in.  I will continue sharing authentic experiences in these solo episodes, paving the way for more meaningful connections and conversations.  Whether its the power of choosing what one is known for or something else, it all comes back to finding purpose and fulfillment in work and 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.   “I think that in being transparent and vulnerable and authentic with my story, that really what that does for me is it helps me connect with people who are in similar places.” Gino Cordone Topics in this episode: You get to decide what you’re known for How you perceive yourself differs from how others see you Pursuing passions and defining yourself Embracing uncomfortable challenges for personal growth You can shape your own narrative 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   

E30 Shaping Your Narrative: The Empowerment of Deciding What You’re Known For Read More »

E25 Exploring My Purpose: Reflecting and Embracing Authenticity

Stream on: Apple Spotify Exploring My Purpose: Reflecting and Embracing Authenticity In a recent solo episode of my Working Towards Our Purpose, I took some time to reflect on my journey so far. It’s been quite a ride, and I wanted to share some of the insights and revelations I’ve had along the way. One thing I’ve learned is the importance of being open to change and redefining my expectations. When I started my business, Pleasant Podcasts, I had certain ideas about how it would all play out. But as we all know, reality doesn’t always match up with our expectations. I’ve had to face some challenges along the way and even take on a part-time job to keep things afloat. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s taught me a lot about humility and staying adaptable. A big theme that’s emerged for me is redefining what success really means. It’s not just about making money; it’s about finding fulfillment and purpose in what we do. That’s something I’ve had to remind myself of time and time again, especially when things get tough. I recently had a bit of a lightbulb moment when I realized that Pleasant Podcasts is just one part of who I am. It’s not the whole picture. That realization has led me to take a more human-centric approach to my work, focusing on how I can empower and inspire others through what I do. So, I’ve decided to shake things up a bit with the podcast. I’ll be doing more solo episodes and committing to a weekly release schedule. I want to create a space where we can have real, honest conversations about what it means to find purpose and fulfillment in our work and in our lives. I’m also starting a Substack newsletter where I’ll be sharing even more insights and ideas from my journey. It’s all about fostering a community of like-minded individuals who are on their own quest for authenticity and purpose. Ultimately, I hope that my journey can serve as an inspiration for others who are navigating their own paths. It’s not always easy, but if we stay true to ourselves and keep pushing forward, we can find meaning and fulfillment in what we do. “As I go into the new year, my words for this new year are authenticity and radically being myself. I think being transparent in this is, helpful maybe for somebody who’s in a similar position.” Gino Cordone Topics in this episode: Reflecting on my anniversary of quitting the corporate lifestyle Discusses the evolution of Pleasant Podcast from expectations to reality Emphasizes the shift in perspective from solely pursuing entrepreneurship to embracing purposeful work in various forms Explores the desire to help people discover their true selves and the internal conflict about the prioritization of monetary success Discusses the importance of not forcing growth and instead focusing on personal growth 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

E25 Exploring My Purpose: Reflecting and Embracing Authenticity Read More »

E15 A Quick Check-In

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 

E15 A Quick Check-In Read More »

E1 My Story of Leaving Mechanical Engineering Behind

Stream on: Apple Spotify Welcome to the Working Towards Our Purpose. A podcast where I explore what it means to work in alignment with your purpose, or at least working towards it. In this first episode I talk about my background, and how I got here. I went to college to become an mechanical engineer, graduated, and worked in the military defense industry for 7 years before finally deciding to leave. In this first episode, I’ll walk you through my experience of transitioning from a career in mechanical engineering to founding my own podcast production company, and eventually leaving engineering for good. I’ll candidly share the challenges, doubts, and pivotal moments that led me to make life-altering decisions, ultimately aligning my work with my passion and purpose. I think my story echoes the experiences of many who find themselves in careers that lack fulfillment and purpose, questioning traditional beliefs about work and seeking to align one’s passion with a meaningful career.  Considering what it means to work for more than just a paycheck.  After leaving my engineering job, I transitioned to pursuing my side business in audio production for podcasts full time. I talk about my leap of faith but also the reality of the challenges that come with such a shift. From the initial struggle to build his business, to the eventual breakthroughs and moments of affirmation, my journey is a testament to the resilience and determination needed when following a passion. I believe that work can be more than a means of survival. Hopefully this will resonate with those who have ever felt trapped in a job that didn’t align with their true calling or values. This podcast’s core message, “work can be more than just a job” challenges the commonly accepted notion that work is separate from personal fulfillment.  Are you content in your career, or is there an unfulfilled passion waiting to be unearthed? If not, maybe this podcast will resonate with you.  I believe that working with purpose can be an everchanging pursuit, and doesn’t need to be a destination.  Your purpose can change as you become more aligned with your own values.  After spending years not thinking about purpose, it makes sense that it will be a gradual change.  And that’s okay.  As long as I’m working towards it.     I look forward to the future of this podcast where I will interview others who I believe are working in their own purpose, and together we will learn from them and be inspired by their stories.     You can listen and subscribe to Working Towards Our Purpose anywhere you listen to podcasts. Topics in this episode: Frustrations and disillusionment with office culture Balancing engineering job with entrepreneurial aspirations Launching my side business Pleasant Podcasts Decision to leave the corporate job and pursuit of new career directions Transition to full-time entrepreneurship Discovery of supportive entrepreneurial environments Desire to inspire others to pursue jobs aligned with their passions Mission of the podcast “Just to know that there’s people out there that are doing things because they care about other people is hugely inspirational to me and makes me strive to be better at what I do and to get more refined in what it is that I’m finding is my purpose.” Gino Cordone 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   

E1 My Story of Leaving Mechanical Engineering Behind Read More »