Working Towards Our Purpose

"I want to use music and the arts to really bring people out of the shadow, celebrate diversity, and bring them into community. To be able to give back, and recognize that everybody has value." -Adam

I had the pleasure of speaking with Adam Christoferson, the founder of Musical Intervention in this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose. Adam shares his powerful vision of creating opportunities for individuals who have been marginalized by society to be celebrated through their creative expressions. We delve deep into the transformative impact music and creative activities have on mental health, community...

In this solo episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I reflect on the challenges of starting new ventures and the frustrations that come with a lack of immediate progress. This showed up for me when building my new website and learning Wordpress, and also starting a new job.  I discuss the internal struggle of being hard on yourself for not grasping things quickly. As I navigate through self-criticism and the need for patience and grace, I arrive at the importance of perseverance and self-compassion when embarking on unfamiliar journeys. Impostor syndrome and self doubt are part of the process, b...

Phil went from not being able to get a job, to owning his own plumbing business, flipping houses, and owning 7 rental properties.

In this episode I sat down with my friend Phil Restivo.  A resilient and motivated person who doesn't take no for an answer.  He is a plumber by trade but as you will find out in this episode, he is truly someone with a deep thirst for learning.  Not knowing how to do something has never stopped him, and propelled him to owning his own business and multiple properties which he uses to rent out. Phi...

Opening a boutique supply store at the age of 24 after graduating college with a degree in philosophy.

Chelsea Risling is the founder of Meraki Supply Co. a boutique storefront featuring products from other small businesses. In this episode we talked about her experience of graduating college and then going in a completely different direction and opening a small business.  We talked about the the challenges and triumphs of pursuing passions, the evolution of purpose amidst societal expectations, and the importance of community in guiding one's journey. We also talked a lot about not fearing change and trying s...

Joe George has figured out how to make music for a living.

In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose I had the pleasure of talking to Joe George, a songwriter, producer, and Emmy nominated film composer with an unwavering love for creating.  Joe shares his experiences in first falling in love with music, figuring out how to make money gigging at an early age, and finding his way into the film industry . We'll delve into his upcoming album "folk cinema" and the inspiration behind its unique concept, alongside insights into his personal creative process.  We discuss th...

My brother Michael just came back from a month long trip to Nepal and shares what he learned.

In this episode I sat down with my twin brother Michael to discuss his recent trip to a small remote village in Nepal. Michael shares some of the lessons he learned and shares his insight into the village's way of life.  While he was there he helped rebuild homes that were damaged from an earthquake.  We discussed his approach to photographing the people and the warm reception from the village community.  Michael talks about the village's close-knit and self-reliant com...

A quick little update.

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Cory gave one of his custom built guitars to one of his favorite bands after a show.

In this episode I sit down with Cory Reynolds, the founder and owner of CRC Guitars, who shares his inspiring journey of turning his passion for music and woodworking into a business.  We discuss the challenges teaching yourself how to build a guitar, the impact of human connection has on his craft, and the importance of doing work that involves the things you love. From his humble beginnings, to his plans for the future, Cory's story is a testament to t...

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

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

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

From selling insurance to learning how to grow mushrooms, Patrick Blanchette has found purpose in his work.  He is founder of Union City Farms, a gourmet mushroom farm.  After I read an article online where Patrick was quoted in saying, ”I could literally do my entire job without thinking” I knew I had to reach out and have him on the podcast.  We talked about how he found meditation which led him to leaving his career in insurance and finding purpose in growing mushrooms.  Patrick emphasizes the negative impact of processed food and chemicals on our collective consciousness and shares h...

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

Bi...

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

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

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In this episode I spoke with author, speaker, founder of the nonprofit Pajama Program, and someone who was featured on Oprah, Genevieve Piturro.  I was so inspired by her book Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas, that I had to have her on the podcast.  We had such an inspiring discussion I'm really excited to share this episode.  Genevieve takes us on a journey from her traditional Italian upbringing to her successful corporate career and ultimately to the moment of realization that led her to create a lasting impact through following her heart and leaving behind a successful career.  We explore the...

In today's episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I sat down with Alex Angeloff, owner of Remedy Co and The Cultured Cafe. Alex shares his journey from a background in drug dealing and spending time in prison to founding a craft CBD company, and later opening a cafe that specializes in fermented foods.  We talk about personal growth, healthy eating, and the impact of aligning values with actions. Join me for an insightful and inspiring conversation as we delve into Alex's path to purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

Alex Angeloff grew up in Westville in New Haven and comes from a...

In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose I talk to my friend Chelsea Paquin about journey from finding her footing in various marketing career paths, to navigating the challenges of van life, to embracing her passion for astrology. Chelsea reflects on her transition from traditional employment to freelancing after getting fired from a job.  She also talks about her experiences living in a van with her boyfriend for the past 4 years, and her deepening interest in astrology.  We explore the importance of being open-minded and the impact astrology has had on our personal growth. We discuss Chelsea's podcast "Th...

A little update episode, no interview this week, but I am excited about my in person meetup for entrepreneur's, creatives, and artists this Wednesday night.  Click the link below to register for the event! 

Register for my meetup!

Wednesday Oct. 11th 
5:00pm - 7:30pm
170 Audubon Street, New Haven, CT, 06510

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Derek Okley is an educator, business strategist, coach, and author who uses podcasting as a means to empower individuals and showcase the incredible work being done by ordinary people in their communities. He was initially inspired to pursue a career in education after witnessing the positive impact of his mentor in the special education department at a school in Brooklyn. This led him to work in a dropout prevention program where he absorbed valuable lessons and experiences. Seeking new challenges, Derek ventured into applying the knowledge he had acquired and spent several years teaching in East New York, Brooklyn. 

In today's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with my friend Raheem Nelson, a talented artist and entrepreneur from New Haven. Raheem takes us through his artistic journey, from his early days as a cartoonist and illustrator all the way to having his art featured in Time Square in NYC. Join us as we explore Raheem's experiences with finding sustainable income as an artist, the power of having a job for financial support, and not being afraid to try new things. Get ready to be inspired as we uncover the secrets of creativity, entrepreneurship, and fulfilling your purpose...

Today my guest Dave Phelan shares his entrepreneur journey from working in the corporate world, to starting his own startup app, to pivoting to a successful consulting business.  Dave is an entrepreneur who grew up outside Philadelphia and studied business at Susquehanna University. After college, he started working at an engineering firm but always had a desire to start his own business. Together with his college friend Phil, they came up with the idea for an app called Loople. The app aimed to provide users with information about daily specials offered by bars and restaurants. They left their day j...

Dan Barletta is one of the founders and owners of the mobile cafe, The Jitter Bus.  Serving the New Haven community for almost 8 years now, the blacked out bus with artwork on it is a familiar site to locals.  An idea that came from witnessing a ice cream truck and a love for coffee, The Jitter Bus started out as a simple idea.  Through some hard work, perseverance, and learning some hard lessons, The Jitter Bus has become a staple downtown New Haven. 

In this episode we talk about Dan's struggle with college and how...

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 after accepting her people person superpower. I met Karolyn a few years back when she was looking for someone to edit her new podcast and have had the opportunity to work with her ever since.  She believes in staying curious and invested in life, constantly evolving and learning. Alongside her partner Raya, she owns a group practice called Connected, Seen, & Heard which aims to create authentic connections and foster transformative experiences for i...

Today I sat down with Vannesa Moreno who was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia, moved to the United States when she was 14, and is now a business owner, a mom, and an active member of the local entrepreneur community of New haven.  She owns Your CBD Store in North Haven, she's a Knownpreneur graduate, an active networker, and last year she was awarded the emerging leader for the Quinnipiac Chamber of Commerce.
 
Vanessa opened her own CBD store in North Haven over three and a half years ago, but before that worked as a sales administrator at...

I don't have an interview for you today, but rather an appreciation episode to thank you all for your support and to let you know what's coming up next!

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Today I sat down with Kendall Egan co-founder of Boxx, a startup that creates pre-fab work from home pods.  She has spent most of her career working in various aspects of marketing, including many startups, and owning her own marketing consulting agency.  We got into the vast field of marketing and talked about what areas are important for small businesses and startups.  This episode is like a mini masterclass in marketing.  Kendall is an expert in her field and shared a lot of her knowledge with us.  I will be taking some of the lessons learned back to my own b...

Saint Phifer is a unique abstract artist from Norwalk Connecticut that transforms simple concepts into meaningful saturated pieces of art that sparks the consciousness.  Through his artwork you can learn the origin and history of the subject as well as about his inspiration and story.  I met Saint recently at an art show here in New Haven where he was a panelist speaker and also displayed some of his work.  I resonated with a lot of what he said and after the show we had a great conversation that led to this interview.

In this episode we tal...

Today I spoke with Shirley Chock owner of Aiping Tai Chi School.  Before being a business owner, she had a very successful career in finance working for startups, the city of New York, and at Yale University before walking away from her high profile job with a pension, benefits, and early retirement, to take over owning the Aiping Tai Chi School. 

We talked about the importance of Tai Chi in her life and how it's much more than internal martial arts, but more of a way of being.  Using it to help cope with stress and the ups...

Today I sat down with Michael Shawn Carbaugh, who is a dedicated pastor, talented musician, and successful entrepreneur who understands the power of Community. He graduated with a degree in music and a minor in bible study. Michael embarked on a unique journey that combined his passions for music, ministry, and community building. As a pastor at Pond Hill Baptist Church, he takes on various roles, including leading music programs and working with young adults. Michael's entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found Unison Games Cafe located in Hamden, CT, a welcoming space where people come together to enjoy games...

This week I talked with Barb Nangle, a boundaries coach and founder of Higher Power Coaching.  She's also a podcaster and her podcast, Fragmented to Whole, is about incorporating lessens she's learned in 12 step recovery.  We covered a lot in this episode from how boundaries can affect all areas of your life, to how she started her coaching business, to managing her time as a solopreneur.

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In this episode I talked with Trevor Huffard co-founder of the startup Boxx, a company that builds work from home office pods designed to be put in your backyard.  We talked about being in startup culture, the many pivots in his career, and the future for his newest venture Boxx.

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In this episode I sat down with my twin brother Mike and talked to him about his recent decision to quit his corporate job.  We talked about his motivations that lead him to leave, his photography business, and how his transition has been so far. 

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In this episode I talk to Alyssa Rae, podcast host, therapist, yoga teacher and someone who is continued to staying curious in an effort to heal, learn, and be inspired to live her life to the fullest.
 
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How to Change Your Mind - Michael Pollan

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In todays episode I talk to Tea Montgomery owner of Threads by Tea, a custom wearable art, clothing business with the mission to inspire and empower.
 
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I talk with Elizabeth Taylor with her unique art business, LaCroix Artistry, and how she transitioned to doing her art full time!

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LaCroix Artistry
Elizabeth's IG
Shop Taylor's Art

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Ramona was working as a CEO when she finally hit her breaking point and decided to stand up for her values.  Now she does incredible work at a non-profit called Love146, whos mission is to end child trafficking.  We dive into what lead to her leaving a leadership role to pursue impact instead.   
 
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Today I talked to Eric Cuni, licensed marriage and family therapist, certified integrative mental health professional, also known as "The Burnout Professor," is a Leading Integrative Mental Health & Trauma Specialist, Keynote Speaker, and Fellow Trauma Survivor. She is on a mission to empower people worldwide with the skills to take control of their nervous system and thrive consciously.

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Steve Roberts the program coordinator at Artspace New Haven and is the founder of Push to Start which is a program that uses skateboarding and art to encourage self-confidence, build transferable skills and inspire civic engagement in youth of New Haven, CT. 

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For my first episode I wanted to tell my story of leaving my corporate career as a mechanical engineer to help better explain why I am doing this podcast and what my mission for this show is. 

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Launches Thursday January 4th.