Working Towards Our Purpose

Pleasant Podcasts

What if the problem isn’t your job, but the version of yourself you had to become to succeed in it? Corporate jobs don’t trap us because they’re evil. They trap us because they slowly teach us to disconnect from ourselves. If you're in corporate America and your life looks successful on paper but feels empty in practice, you’re not alone. This podcast is a space for the quiet questions you don’t say out loud at work. We explore the inner side of change: fear, identity, self-trust, meaning, and the unsettling moment when you realize someone else’s definition of success isn't enough for you. This isn’t about quitting your job overnight or chasing money, but asking what feels right for you and finding the clarity to understand what you’re feeling before you make your next move. You’re not broken. You’ve just outgrown the life you built. New episodes weekly.

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Why You Never Feel Ready to Leave The Life You've Outgrown | E84

    Want to make a change but feel like you're not ready? In this episode, I dive into the question: How do you know if you’re ready to leave the life you’ve outgrown? The short answer is, you'll likely never "feel ready", but it doesn't mean you should let that hold you back. I break down the difference between feeling unsafe or just uncomfortable. If you’re reaching outside your comfort zone, this episode will encourage you this feeling of "not ready" is normal and you don't have to let it hold you back. You are capable of more than you think. ✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way Support my friend Events By Carrie 📍 Timestamps: 00:00 –  Check-In01:10 – Why You Never Feel Ready to Change02:24 – My Experiences03:46 – Why We Feel Uncomfortable 05:19 – Being Outside Your Comfort Zone06:14 – What I’ve Learned from Taking Leaps08:04 – The Power of Support09:32 – You Don't Have To Plan It All Out10:38 – Looking for Signs You’re Ready11:48 – How to Tell If You’re Ready (Unsafe vs Uncomfortable)16:18 – How I Made My Transitions21:32 – Final Takeaways24:37 – Free Guide  💡Key TakeawaysIn this episode you'll learn: Most people never feel ready enough Discomfort is a sign of growthKnowing if you’re ready means separating unsafe from uncomfortableSupport will often come from unexpected placesPlanning is helpful, but you’ll never have every answerYou’re more capable than you thinkPushing through imposter syndromeNew challenges get easier the more you take actionTrust your driveYour capability and support network are bigger than you think 🚀 Start Here If You’re New 1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45 2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48 3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39  👥How To Connect Workingtowardsourpurpose.com Watch on YouTube Substack Instagram LinkedIn WTOP Merch Feedback Form WTOP.com

    25 min
  2. 9 FEB

    How to Overcome the Fear of Starting Over After Leaving Corporate America | E83

    Leaving Corporate America is often sold as a glamorous leap into freedom, but the reality is much messier. For many high-achievers, the biggest obstacle isn't the financial plan, it's the paralyzing fear of starting over and the identity crisis that comes with being a "beginner" again. After years of performing a version of success that didn't fit, stepping into the unknown feels like a threat to our safety. In this episode we dive into the psychological shift required to trade professional perfectionism for true purpose. If you’ve been feeling lost or stuck in the "9-5 nonsense," you’ll learn why doing hard things is the only way to heal the corporate mindset and rebuild self-trust. We discuss the "Competence Trap" that keeps us in soul-crushing roles and how to be kinder to yourself when you're navigating the void of a career transition. It’s time to stop pretending you have it all figured out and start being brave enough to be a beginner again. ✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way 📍 Timestamps: 00:00 – Check-In00:53 – The Fear of Starting Over02:02 – Getting Uncomfortable and Personal Growth03:03 – The Competence Trap05:48 – Control, Fear, and Stagnation06:25 – Growth Through Difficult Things07:57 – Escaping the Corporate Mindset09:49 – Finding Support and Community10:21 – Handling Criticism and Focusing on Support11:58 – Feeling Behind13:13 – Practicing Self-Kindness14:27 – Do the Hard Thing16:31 – Free Inner Critic Resource17:13 – Closing Thoughts  💡Key Takeaways In this episode you'll learn: Overcoming the fear of starting over Comfort keeps you stuckEmbracing discomfort Worrying about looking "cringe"Supportive communitiesTaking small, intentional stepsMoving through fear and anxietyFocusing less your supporters, not criticsPracticing self-kindness when starting something newOvercoming the fear of starting Finding your authentic path 🚀 Start Here If You’re New 1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45 2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48 3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39  👥How To Connect Workingtowardsourpurpose.com Watch on YouTube Substack Instagram LinkedIn WTOP Merch Feedback Form WTOP.com

    18 min
  3. 2 FEB

    Want to Leave Your Job but Feel Lost? 3 Strategies to Find Your Authentic Path | E82

    Ready to move on from your corporate job but have no idea where to go? I know how you feel because that was me 5 years ago. In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I address this feeling of knowing you want to leave, but not having any idea of where to go. I share what it was like for me and what I learned from the process. If you’re stuck, not knowing what to do post corporate life, I offer three practical strategies to help you figure out your own path. ✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way 📍 Timestamps: 00:00 – Check In01:13 – Why We Feel Lost 03:25 – Realizing You Want to leave corporate04:12 – Others Influence & Following the “Rules”05:12 – Social Pressures06:37 – Giving Yourself the Gift of Time07:24 – Believing Change Is Possible08:19 – The Real Fear: Money vs. The Unknown12:21 – My Story of leaving corporate16:46 – 3 Strategies to Find Your Own Path18:19 – How to Know What You Want19:28 – Why Support & Community Matter22:19 – Taking Small but Powerful Actions25:38 – Patience & Kindness  💡Key Takeaways In this episode you'll learn: How to leave a corporate jobHow to find your own pathHow to find out what you want post corporate lifeGiving yourself the gift of timeFear around moneyFinding what energizes youBuilding support networks and finding communityTaking a small step forward and finding momentum Facing the unknown is scaryPatience and self-kindness  🚀 Start Here If You’re New 1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45 2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48 3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39  👥How To Connect Workingtowardsourpurpose.com Watch on YouTube Substack Instagram LinkedIn WTOP Merch Feedback Form WTOP.com

    28 min
  4. 26 JAN

    How To Focus With ADHD: The One Thing You Can Do Right Now To Reclaim Mental Clarity | E81

    Struggling to focus with ADHD? In this episode, I talk about one method you can use to focus with ADHD to regain mental clarity and productivity. If you’re overwhelmed by constant thoughts and struggling to finish tasks, I break down my personal experience and share practical ADHD focusing tips. Learn how identifying with ADHD and using a simple brain dumping method can transform your daily routine and help you work with, not against, your mind.  ✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way 📍 Timestamps:00:00 – Check-In00:59 – Struggling to Focus02:02 – Growing Up with ADHD Stigma03:15 – Recognizing ADHD in Adulthood04:12 – How ADHD Feels 05:01 – Trevor Noah’s Analogy06:08 – Types of ADHD Explained06:42 – Childhood ADHD vs. Adult ADHD 08:39 – Internal Restlessness 09:26 – The One Thing That Helps11:08 – How to Brain Dump 12:10 – The Power of Identifying with ADHD13:26 – Mental Health Stigma and ADHD Positives15:25 – Closing  💡Key Takeaways Understanding how to focus with ADHD Internal restlessness and thoughtsHow ADHD can feel Identifying as someone with ADHDReduce stigma and unlock more effective coping strategiesUsing a brain dumping methodADHD-related creativity as a strengthLearn to work with it, not against itOne thing to reduce mental restlessness so that you can focus 🚀 Start Here If You’re New 1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45 2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48 3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39  👥How To Connect Workingtowardsourpurpose.com Watch on YouTube Substack Instagram LinkedIn WTOP Merch Feedback Form WTOP.com

    16 min
  5. 19 JAN

    The Truth About Leaving Corporate: 4 Reasons Your Career is Holding Back Your Authentic Life | E80

    Ever wonder what really happens when you walk away from your corporate career, and what you stand to gain if you take the leap? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I share my honest reflections on life 5 years after leaving my corporate job and what it's really like outside of the corporate grind. You’ll hear about overcoming the fear of letting go, rediscovering creativity, and finding what it means to truly value your time. For anyone searching for their purpose beyond the 9 to 5, whether you're considering quitting your corporate job or just curious about what happens on the other side. This episode explores the truth about leaving corporate life and what it means to embrace your authentic self. Tune in to learn about the benefits, challenges, and possibilities that come with making a major career pivot. ✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way 📍 Timestamps:00:00 – Check-In00:55 – The Truth About Leaving Corporate01:34 – My Corporate Experience02:22 – Intentions04:09 – Hard Realities of Leaving Corporate 08:17 – Four Ways Corporate Holds You Back10:07 – Power Dynamics & Speaking Up14:35 – Mental Health in Corporate Settings15:13 – Living in Fear & Closed Mindedness20:00 – Creativity: Lost and Found22:41 – Value of Time & Corporate Grind26:31 – Flexibility & Freedom After Corporate27:09 – Recap: Four Key Reasons to Leave28:52 – Advice for Those Considering Leaving31:36 – Closing  💡Key Takeaways What it's like 5 years after leaving a corporate jobThe hardest part of quitting a steady 9 to 5The struggles of not having a corporate jobWhat you'll gain by leaving the corporate grindPrioritizing your mental health and timeBecoming your authentic self 🚀 Start Here If You’re New 1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45 2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48 3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39  👥How To Connect Workingtowardsourpurpose.com Watch on YouTube Substack Instagram LinkedIn WTOP Merch Feedback Form WTOP.com

    32 min
  6. 12 JAN

    How to Stop Feeling Overwhelmed When You Don't Have It All Figured Out | E79

    Do you ever felt lost because you don’t have everything figured out? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I talk about the feeling of being overwhelmed when you don't have it all figured out. I share my personal struggles with imposter syndrome and the pressure to have everything planned, especially with my podcast journey. If you're battling overwhelm at the start of this new year you'll find real, actionable mindset tips that helped me work through my overwhelm. ✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way 📍 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & Check-In00:54 – Feeling Overwhelmed with Not Having It All Figured Out01:50 – Entrepreneur vs. Creative Mindset03:33 – Pressure to Have All the Answers04:05 – Imposter Syndrome05:13 – Three Steps to Stop Feeling Overwhelmed07:10 – The Power of Letting Go08:12 – Remembering Your Why 10:15 – Sustainable Workflow & Authenticity11:43 – The Songwriting Analogy: Letting Ideas Marinate13:13 – Evaluating Other Areas of Life15:48 – Redirecting Your Energy 18:56 – Gratitude & Final Reflections  💡Key Takeaways 3 steps to stop overwhelmPressure to have it all figured outKnowing when to let things marinate Entrepreneur vs. creative mindsets 🚀 Start Here If You’re New 1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45 2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48 3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39  👥How To Connect Workingtowardsourpurpose.com Watch on YouTube Substack Instagram LinkedIn WTOP Merch Feedback Form WTOP.com

    20 min
  7. 17/12/2025

    Stop Getting in Your Own Way in 2026: Overcoming Self-Sabotage | E78

    Are you ready to finally stop getting in your own way and create lasting change in 2026? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I discuss how to overcome self-sabotage and stop letting your inner critic keep you from reaching your goals, especially as we head into 2026. With the new year approaching, we talk about setting New Year’s resolutions, breaking out of your comfort zone, and embracing self-compassion as the key to personal growth. I share my personal experience building the “Softening Your Inner Critic in Seven Days” guide - a free resource to help you be kinder to yourself and unlock your full potential. Tune in for practical strategies, inspiring stories, and tips on self-improvement, goal setting, and cultivating a positive mindset. ✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way 📍 Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & Check-In01:07 – Reflections on New Beginnings and New Year’s Resolutions02:41 – Why We Often Fail at Resolutions: The Role of the Inner Critic04:37 – Introduction to the “Softening Your Inner Critic in Seven Days” Guide05:22 – How Self-Criticism Limits Our Potential06:17 – Turning Down the Volume on Your Inner Critic07:34 – Realizing the Power of Self-Compassion08:34 – Becoming Your Own Cheerleader vs. Your Own Critic10:00 – Self-Belief and Reaching for Big Goals10:55 – How to Access the Free Guide11:24 – 2025 Podcast Recap 13:24 – Podcast Wrapped: Top Episodes14:30 – Closing Thoughts  💡Key Takeaways In this episode you'll learn: Practical strategies to overcome your inner critic and self sabotage Discover how self compassion can empower you to reach your goalsUnderstand the importance of self belief How to download your free guide to soften your own inner critic  🚀 Start Here If You’re New 1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45 2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48 3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39  👥How To Connect Workingtowardsourpurpose.com Watch on YouTube Substack Instagram LinkedIn WTOP Merch Feedback Form WTOP.com

    15 min
  8. 10/12/2025

    How to Have Your Most Authentic Holiday: Overcoming External Expectations for Purposeful Living | E77

    Struggling with self-acceptance during the holidays? In this episode of Working Towards Our Purpose, I open up about the real challenges of some of us face around the holidays. I share actionable steps for finding authenticity, gratitude, and compassion during this season that can be stressful . Whether you're coping with holiday anxiety or navigating difficult family dynamics, this conversation offers mindset shifts to help you embrace who you are, past and present. Tune in for practical self-authenticity tips, mental health strategies, and ways to nurture your personal growth in the midst of festive pressure. Join me as we explore how to make this holiday season a kinder, more purposeful one. ✨ FREE GUIDE: Soften Your Inner Critic in 7 Days: A Guide to Stop Getting In Your Own Way 📍 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & Check-In00:47 – Overcoming Holiday Spirals02:15 – Self-Acceptance Around the Holidays03:39 – Family Expectations & Old Versions of Ourselves06:31 – Accepting Past Versions of Ourselves08:54 – Focus on What Excites You13:06 – Find Gratitude During Holidays14:36 – Navigating Holiday Pressure15:55 – Extra Compassion for Yourself17:07 – Podcast Updates & Upcoming Break18:47 – Closing Thoughts  💡Key Takeaways In this episode you'll learn: How to practice self authenticity during the holidaysUnderstanding the importance of accepting old and current versions of yourselfExploring tips for focusing on what's positive Focusing on gratitude and self compassion  🚀 Start Here If You’re New 1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45 2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48 3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39  👥How To Connect Workingtowardsourpurpose.com Watch on YouTube Substack Instagram LinkedIn WTOP Merch Feedback Form WTOP.com

    19 min

About

What if the problem isn’t your job, but the version of yourself you had to become to succeed in it? Corporate jobs don’t trap us because they’re evil. They trap us because they slowly teach us to disconnect from ourselves. If you're in corporate America and your life looks successful on paper but feels empty in practice, you’re not alone. This podcast is a space for the quiet questions you don’t say out loud at work. We explore the inner side of change: fear, identity, self-trust, meaning, and the unsettling moment when you realize someone else’s definition of success isn't enough for you. This isn’t about quitting your job overnight or chasing money, but asking what feels right for you and finding the clarity to understand what you’re feeling before you make your next move. You’re not broken. You’ve just outgrown the life you built. New episodes weekly.