Purpose Project

Leslie

Do you feel like you're supposed to do something different with your life, but you're not quite sure what to do? If so, you've come to the right place. Purpose Project is a research study designed to explore the topic of purpose from all different angles. Through this research we hope you will discover and realize your unique life's purpose.

  1. S3E6: From Career to Calling with Jeremy Beaty

    5D AGO

    S3E6: From Career to Calling with Jeremy Beaty

    Host Leslie Pagel interviews Jeremy Beaty about living “to the beat of our own drum” after he left a comfortable chemical engineering career to attend Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, and prepare to go overseas with his wife to do God’s work. Jeremy describes growing up near Houston, studying chemical engineering at Texas A&M, and coming to faith in Christ the summer before his final semester after exploring multiple belief systems, including Islam, veganism, Mormonism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and New Age ideas. He explains how conversion and sanctification deepened his desire to study Scripture, discern God’s will through prayer, alignment with the Bible, and affirmation from other believers, and how mixed reactions from others didn’t deter him. Leslie reflects on purpose found not only within oneself but also by devotion to something outside oneself - God.   00:00 Welcome 00:47 Jeremy’s Career Pivot 07:54 Searching for Truth 10:59 Beyond Religion and Veganism 14:41 Seed Grows After College 15:53 Sanctification and Calling 20:06 Inward and Outward Discernment 27:04 Reactions and Doubts 32:30 Faith Object Not Strength 37:05 Advice and Closing Reflections 39:44 Host Takeaways and Disclaimer Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life's purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Captions are auto-generated.

    42 min
  2. S3E5: The Obstacle Is The Way With Michele Meyer

    MAR 17

    S3E5: The Obstacle Is The Way With Michele Meyer

    Host Leslie Pagel interviews her friend Michele Meyer about living “to the beat of your own drum” and pushing against social norms. Michele attributes her assertiveness to impatience and self-reliance. She paid her own way through college, then joined the Peace Corps for nearly two and a half years, working in sustainable agriculture and environmental education with kids and farmers. Michele discusses gender and work as a woman in road construction. She emphasizes moving forward despite fear, practicing daily kindness and interconnectedness, and not letting social norms define one’s reality—“be the author of your own life.”  00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 00:57 Pushing Social Norms 04:16 Wild Childhood Freedom 06:54 Catholic School Clash 10:07 Choosing Peace Corps 14:00 Life in Nicaragua 16:04 Parents Reaction and Support 18:07 Women in the Workplace 22:47 Street Cred in Construction 23:31 Intimidation as Advantage 24:16 Always Moving Forward 25:45 Fear Fight or Flight 26:38 Gut Instinct vs Planning 29:20 Contentment and Retirement 30:40 Dark Period and Purpose 32:46 Choosing Change to Survive 34:16 Interconnectedness and Kindness 38:20 Smiling Leadership Style 39:15 Rejecting Social Norm Scripts 41:15 Stoic Closing Reflection   Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life’s purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life's purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Captions are auto-generated.

    43 min
  3. S3E4: Living In Harmony With Our Beat with Marina Danilova

    MAR 3

    S3E4: Living In Harmony With Our Beat with Marina Danilova

    Marina Danilova, founder of Integrative Leadership and Wellbeing, joins Purpose Project to explore living life to the beat of one’s own drum through an integrative approach to health. Marina explains that “traditional” medicine predates modern biomedicine and emphasizes whole-person, nature-based, balance-restoring care, while valuing modern medicine for emergencies and serious disease but noting its limits with chronic conditions and quality-of-life concerns where patients may feel unseen. She describes integrating lifestyle, gentle interventions, and alignment with inner values, drawing on Chinese medicine principles such as living in harmony with nature’s cyclical rhythms and one’s true self. Marina shares her career shift from law and 20 years in corporate business to Chinese medicine, discusses curiosity and skepticism toward her work, and encourages self-inquiry, responsibility, and listening to the body.  00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro 00:49 Why Integrative Healthcare 02:59 Whole Person Healing Explained 06:27 Women’s Health Case Examples 08:08 Chinese Medicine Philosophy 09:04 Harmony With Nature 11:43 True Nature and Identity 13:17 Skepticism and Doctor Buy In 16:34 Readiness to Change 18:23 Marina’s Career Pivot Story 24:26 Intuition and Integration 26:53 Responsibility and Courage 30:51 How to Work With Marina 33:34 Final Wisdom and Wrap Up 36:29 Host Reflection and Disclaimer For more information or to connect with Marina: https://www.marinadanilova.com/  Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life’s purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project   Captions are auto generated. Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life's purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Captions are auto-generated.

    38 min
  4. S3E3: Responsibility For The Rhythm with Elliott Obermaier

    FEB 17

    S3E3: Responsibility For The Rhythm with Elliott Obermaier

    In this episode, host Leslie Pagel interviews Elliott Obermaier, guitarist for the indie rock/indie pop band Six Foot Blonde. Elliott describes stepping away from a traditional career path after graduating college to making music his profession. He discusses reactions to being a professional touring musician and shares how doubts were eased through the band’s tight-knit community and love of playing guitar. Elliott shares guiding beliefs: working hardest at what he loves (inspired by IU professor Glen Gass and his Beatles expertise) and a family metaphor of being a disciplined, “green” leaf in the wind - open to life’s direction while maintaining health, discipline, and self-care. He speaks about staying grounded by calling friends outside the music world, and reframing touring as something he “gets to do.” He advises listeners to start small and stay consistent, be honest yet forgiving, seek inspiration actively, and build consistency through habits. The episode closes with Elliott encouraging listeners to listen to and share music and attend shows. 00:00 Welcome to Purpose Project + Meet Elliott Obermaier (Six Foot Blonde) 01:06 Choosing Music Over the “Safe” Career Path 02:21 From Anthropology to Building a Music Community in College 06:08 Graduation Curveball: Losing the 9–5 Offer & Saying Yes to Touring 08:10 Balancing the Grain: Remote Work to Fund the Band Life 10:05 “You’re Actually in a Band?” Reactions, Skepticism, and Credibility 14:47 Doubts & What Kept Him Going 16:23 Who Is Six Foot Blonde? Origin Story, Tours, and a Healthy Road Culture 19:28 Beliefs That Shaped the Path: Do What You Love + “Leaf in the Wind” 23:29 Discipline + Self-Care to Let Life Happen (The “Green Leaf” Mindset) 24:34 Finding What You Love Early vs. “Do What You Love” Advice 26:31 Letting Go of Control When Life Throws a Curveball 28:07 Living in Alignment: Noticing When You’re Off-Center 29:26 Touring Highs, Ego Traps & the Reminder: “You Get to Do This” 32:37 Staying Grounded on the Road: Friends, Perspective & Honest Check-Ins 33:50 Advice for Going Against the Grain: Start Small, Stay Consistent 36:54 Slumps & Burnout: Rest vs. Excuses + How to Find Inspiration Again 41:48 Closing Reflections: Responsibility, Community, and Purpose  Be sure to check out Six Foot Blonde: https://www.sixftblonde.com/ Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life’s purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Captions are auto generated. Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life's purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Captions are auto-generated.

    43 min
  5. S3E2: Finding A New Beat Beyond Alcohol with Brad Ton

    FEB 3

    S3E2: Finding A New Beat Beyond Alcohol with Brad Ton

    In this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel sits down with Brad Ton to explore what it means to live in alignment with one's true self. Brad courageously shares his journey of overcoming alcoholism, addressing debilitating anxiety, and discovering his life's purpose. He emphasizes the importance of self-love, setting healthy boundaries, and being present in the moment. Brad also discusses the significant role of community support and spirituality in his recovery. At the end of the episode, Brad offers a special gift for listeners. This heartfelt conversation is a testament to the power of vulnerability and transformation.   00:00 Introduction to Purpose Project Season 3 00:46 Welcoming Brad Ton 02:15 Brad's Journey to Sobriety 04:40 The Gift of Desperation 08:41 Practicing Presence and Letting Go 12:31 Morning Routines and Mindset 21:18 Impact on Relationships 23:14 Navigating Relationships and Boundaries 24:42 Losing Friendships and Finding Clarity 26:17 The Importance of Community in Recovery 32:29 Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity 39:37 The Power of Belief and Presence 46:43 Freestyle and Final Thoughts   You can follow Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradton/ Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life's purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Captions are auto-generated.

    51 min
  6. S3E1: Being Called with Krista Sexton

    JAN 27

    S3E1: Being Called with Krista Sexton

    n the first episode of Season 3, Leslie Pagel introduces the theme of living uniquely to our own drum beat. The episode features Krista Sexton, founder of Acton Academy of Morgantown in Indiana, who shares her inspirational journey of developing an alternative educational path for her daughter and community. After a career at Starbucks, Krista took a sabbatical, delved into entrepreneurship, and questioned the traditional education system. Guided by faith and persistent determination, she established a learner-driven micro-school emphasizing creativity, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. Throughout the discussion, Krista highlights the importance of tuning into one's inner voice, navigating challenges, and living purposefully despite societal norms and criticisms.   00:00 Welcome to Season Three 00:36 Introducing Krista Sexton and Acton Academy of Morgantown 01:59 Krista's Journey to Founding Acton Academy 03:55 The Impact of COVID and Personal Growth 06:20 Discovering Acton Academy 07:44 Starting the School: Challenges and Confirmations 11:40 The Vision and Philosophy of Acton Academy 19:50 Opening the Doors: First Days and Lessons Learned 24:47 Perseverance and Passion: Overcoming Obstacles 26:33 Discovering Purpose and Passion 27:42 Beliefs and Divine Guidance 29:08 Monetizing Passions and Entrepreneurship 30:36 Balancing Passion with Practicality 32:07 Challenges and Resilience 36:51 Faith and Finding a New Space 44:08 Intuition and Intellectual Balance 46:50 Advice for Following Your Calling 49:13 Embracing Play and Creativity 50:58 Final Reflections and Gratitude  For more information on the Acton Academy of Morgantown, visit: https://actonacademyofmorgantown.org/   Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life's purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Captions are auto-generated.

    52 min
  7. S2E14: Season Finale with Adam Binkerd

    06/10/2025

    S2E14: Season Finale with Adam Binkerd

    In the season finale of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel explores the concept of purpose in the workplace with Adam Binkerd, founder of 240Solutions. Over the course of this conversation, Adam shares how his decade of experience and research has shaped his views on organizational culture, focusing on the elements of belonging, vulnerability, and shared purpose. They delve into the roles of individual purpose and shared purpose within a business environment, discussing how leaders can align these to enhance organizational health. Both Leslie and Adam reflect on their personal journeys and emphasize the importance of making employees feel valued and purposeful. This episode provides insightful advice for leaders on fostering purpose and fulfilling human experiences within their teams. 00:00 Welcome to the Season Finale 00:25 Meet Adam Binkerd: Founder of 240Solutions 02:58 The Mission of 240Solutions 08:20 Understanding the Human Experience at Work 12:40 The Role of Shared Purpose in Organizations 15:45 Aligning Individual and Shared Purpose 21:08 The Responsibility of Purpose 29:33 Simplifying Purpose in Society 33:38 Teaching Purpose to Youth 36:00 Client Work and Culture Building 38:37 Leadership and Employee Purpose 39:15 Overcoming Insecurity in Leadership 49:27 Personal Journey to Purpose 54:15 Advice for Leaders on Purpose 56:45 Conclusion and Final Thoughts For more content like this, check out Leading Adam: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GH4_TcZd75g&t=15s Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life's purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Captions are auto-generated.

    58 min

  8. 06/03/2025

    S2E13: How to Do Purpose In the Workplace with Jim Money

    In this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel talks with Jim Money, the former President of Automotive Finance Corporation (AFC). Jim shares his journey of leading a purpose-driven transformation at AFC by helping employees identify their “why” at work. He discusses his career and the evolution of his leadership philosophy. The conversation underscores the significance of purpose in creating a cohesive, motivated, and successful workplace. Jim emphasizes the ongoing commitment required to keep purpose alive in an organization and the positive impact it has on employee engagement and company performance. 00:00 Introduction to Purpose Project 00:46 Meet Jim Money: Personal and Professional Background 01:51 Jim's Career Journey and Retirement 04:14 Discovering Life's Purpose 07:00 Jim’s Purpose The Three Cs: Community, Connections, and Council 13:47 Transitioning to a Purpose-Driven Leadership 15:37 Implementing Purpose in the Workplace 23:04 Challenges and Impact of Purpose-Driven Leadership 27:23 Purpose and Values in Hiring and Retention 30:58 The Power of Purpose in Action 32:03 Embedding Values into Daily Practices 37:27 Quarterly Check-ins for Continuous Improvement 39:26 The Impact of Purpose on Business Growth 42:57 Aligning Mission, Vision, and Purpose 46:22 Personal Purpose and Professional Fulfillment 51:47 Advice for Leaders and Managers 53:27 Final Thoughts on Purpose in the Workplace Purpose Project is a research study on the topic of life's purpose. You can follow along in the making of Purpose Project: Instagram: @purpose.project LinkedIn: @purposeproject-media TikTok: @purpose.project Captions are auto-generated.

    55 min
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5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Do you feel like you're supposed to do something different with your life, but you're not quite sure what to do? If so, you've come to the right place. Purpose Project is a research study designed to explore the topic of purpose from all different angles. Through this research we hope you will discover and realize your unique life's purpose.

Information

  • Creator
    Leslie
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Purpose Project
  • Show Website
    Purpose Project