Working Towards Our Purpose Pleasant Podcasts

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 something new, like moving to Connecticut and working for Yale's Hockey team. We can all draw insights and motivation from Chelsea's experiences and outlook on life.
Bio:  Chelsea Risling is a Saskatchewan native who after high school, moved to Calgary to pursue a degree in philosophy at the University of Calgary.  After getting out of college and doing some traveling, she decided going to law school wasn't for her and opened up a boutique retail store at the age of 24 with no business experience. After running it successfully for 6 years, she decided to close the doors in 2019 to pursue something new.  Closing her store just before the pandemic allowed her to move into a consulting role to help other businesses struggling at the time.  She then took an opportunity to move to New Haven and work for the Yale Hockey team, and is now at another pivotal point in her life as she moves back to Canada to redefine herself and move onto her next venture. 
Topics in this episode:
Pursuing a college degree from enjoyment not practicality Embracing a diverse path not a traditional oneOpening a retail store at 24 years old with no experienceBeing true to oneselfSignificance of support and communityFostering in-person connectionsAdapting purpose to changing circumstancesUsing what you learned to help othersUncertain future plans and exploring new opportunities
Connect with Chelsea:
Follow Meraki Supply on IGFollow Chelsea on IGConnect with me:
Buy some WTOP SWAGWorkingtowardsourpurpose.comSubscribe to my SubstackIf you would like to start your own podcast you can find some help at pleasantpodcasts.com

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 the creation of his studio, Gentle Bear Studios, and how he's curated a place for stillness, thinking, and creating. Find out how Joe's dedication to his craft continues to influence and inspire those around him, as well as his unique perspectives on purpose and self-discovery.
Bio:  Joe George's love for music started at a young age when his brother and him listened to a few Beatles records.  After asking for a guitar he received one from Santa Claus. In his early teens he started performing at cafes and coffee shops around town, showcasing both cover songs and his own original music. With a passion for writing his own songs and playing guitar, Joe George has established himself as a musician and performer at an early age.  He then went on to college to study music and moved to Chicago to pursue music.  He played tons of gigs for money, and also played in his own original music bands before getting into film scoring.  Now he runs Gentle Bear studios in Chicago where he prides it on a place to create and think and express ideas under little pressure. He also plays guitar in the band Into It Over It.  
Topics in this episode:
Growing up with music in the household Moving to Chicago and playing gigs every nightEarly 20s energy Getting into film scoring  Working for free to get your foot in the door Overcoming failuresGentle Bear StudiosNot contending Joining an existing band Being driven by the creative moments Combating self criticism and self doubt
Connect with Joe George:
Watch "Stones Throw" music videoJoe George IG and TikTok Into It Over ItConnect with me:
Buy some WTOP SWAGWorkingtowardsourpurpose.comSubscribe to my SubstackIf you would like to start your own podcast you can find some help at pleasantpodcasts.com

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 community and how different their way of life is from ours. Through Michael's reflections, the conversation explores cultural differences, the power of human connection, and the rewards of stepping out of comfort zones. 
Bio:  Michael Cordone III is a dedicated and passionate photographer who has spent the last year immersing himself in the world of photography. After quitting his corporate engineering job 1 year ago, and has since explored many different aspects of the craft and is learning as much as possible.  He also just got back from a month long service trip to Nepal, helping a small village rebuild after earthquake damage.    
Topics in this episode:
1 year since leaving corporate Ups and downs of the first year of a full time photographer Traveling to Nepal for a service tripWhat it's like in the city of KatmanduHelping a small village rebuild houses after an earthquakeA community of self-sufficiency in food, housing, and livingThe significance of meditation and spending time alonePushing through your fears Valuing experiencing both the highs and lows in life
Connect with Michael:
Follow MC3 on IGFollow MC3 on SubstackBuy a print from MichaelConnect with me:
Subscribe to my SubstackFollow me on IGpleasantpodcasts.comIf you would like to start your own podcast you can download my free Podcast Launch Roadmap to help you get started

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 the power of self-belief and determination. Join us as we delve into the world of guitar building and the pursuit of purpose!
Bio: Cory Reynolds spent years working in construction before finding himself in a job of a different industry he didn't enjoy very much.  This pushed him to search for something more.  After thinking about his two passions, music and working with his hands, he decided to teach himself how to build a guitar.  After the first failed guitar, he had a friend buy the parts so he could build his second, and he's been building guitars for people ever since.  Cory has blended his passion for working with his hands and his love for music with his business CRC Guitars.     
Topics in this episode:
Being homeschooled Working with your handsTransitioning from construction to guitar buildingSelf taught guitar builderDoing anything you out your mind toThe future of CRC guitarsGiving a guitar to his favorite band
Connect with Cory:
Follow CRC Guitars on IGFollow CRC Guitars on FBConnect with me:
Subscribe to my SubstackFollow me on IGpleasantpodcasts.comIf you would like to start your own podcast you can download my free Podcast Launch Roadmap to help you get started

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! 
You get to decide what you're known forHow you perceive yourself differs from how others see youPursuing passions and defining yourselfEmbracing uncomfortable challenges for personal growthYou can shape your own narrativeConnect with me:
Subscribe to my SubstackFollow me on IGpleasantpodcasts.comIf you would like to start your own podcast you can download my free Podcast Launch Roadmap to help you get started

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, and the meaningful impact his business has had on his community. Get ready to be inspired by Dimitri's perseverance, personality, and insight into the world of entrepreneurship.
Bio: Dimitri Cotman was raised New Haven, CT in a home where education and church were prioritized. His parents instilled in him the importance of excelling in school and attending church regularly. Dimitri also grew up with his grandfather and spent a lot of time in a homeless shelter supporting his community.  From an early age he used his personality to brighten peoples days and make connections.  A skill that he took with him when he started his own business Z.Nith Point Candles, where he hand crafts candles, body butters, bath balms, and room sprays. 
Topics in this episode:
Getting a good education A business born from a pandemic hobby The difficulties first charging for your productsCollab accelerator programHow community can support youCommunity service Getting your product into storesConnect with Dimitri:
Shop Z.Nith Point CandleFollow Z.Nith Point on IGFollow Z.Nith Point on FBFind Z.Nith Point locations
Anna V. Salon in Wallingford, CTAvant Garde Salon in Branford, CTGracious Gifts & Home in Branford, CTStoney Creek Depot in Branford, CT
Connect with me:
Subscribe to my SubstackFollow me on IGpleasantpodcasts.comIf you would like to start your own podcast you can download my free Podcast Launch Roadmap to help you get started