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." -AdamI 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 building, and empowerment. Adam shares his personal experiences, challenges, and triumphs in establishing a space where he uses music as a tool for healing and purpose for those who struggle.  Bio: Adam Christoferson's passion for music started at a young age when his uncle had a big hit on the radio the year he was born. After attending some of his concerts at a young age and experiencing the power of music, his father bought him a drum set at the age of 8 and he fell in love with playing. Music became a safe place for him to communicate and connect with others, spending hours jamming with friends during his adolescents. After writing and playing his own songs, he became an advocate for using music as a tool for healing and connection.  He got a degree in recreational therapy from Southern Connecticut University and then started working with elderly in the hospitals and the homeless at shelters to write songs together and hold open mic nights.  Adam took him ability to create music with others to the community giving people a space to feel like they have purpose no matter their history or situation. Topics in this episode:The impact of music on mental healthCommunity songwriting Music as a safe place for expressionRecreational therapy Empowering the disenfranchised by not defining by their diagnosisCreatives not fitting into the existing social system  The importance of giving people their identity back with music Impact of purpose on neglected communitiesThe transformative power of musicCollaboration with Yale University to show the impact music has on individuals with auditory hallucinationsSolidifying identity and providing a sense of being valued, seen, and heardConnect with Adam:Musical Intervention Website Musical Intervention IGWatch the FB Live open micVisit Musical Intervention Connect with me:Buy some WTOP SWAGWorkingtowardsourpurpose.comFollow me on IGIf you would like to start your own podcast you can find some help at pleasantpodcasts.com

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, but I think it's helpful to talk about it and not just keep it to yourself because we all struggle with it.  Topics in this episode:Feeling frustrated when not seeing immediate progressSelf-Criticism and Imposter SyndromeBeing hard on oneself for not learning quicklyReflecting on limitations imposed on oneselfRecognizing the need for patience and kindness towards oneselfEmphasizing the importance of persistence and self-forgiveness in learning new skillOvercoming Limitations and Self-Imposed BoundariesBreaking free from limiting beliefs Encouraging patience in achieving tasks and goalsDiscussing the possibility to learn and improve at any stage in lifeConnect with me:Buy some WTOP merchWorkingtowardsourpurpose.comFollow me on IGIf you would like to start your own podcast you can find some help at pleasantpodcasts.com

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. Phil shares how he overcame personal and professional hurdles, from battling severe sleep apnea to navigating life with ADD. Phil's story is filled with invaluable insights and inspiration from someone who is determined to get what he wants. Join us as we uncover the transformative moments and pivotal decisions that have shaped Phil's unique path towards fulfillment and purpose. Bio: Phil Restivo is a hands-on kind of guy who found his passion for craftsmanship at a young age. He decided to attend a technical school that offered hands-on training for half the year and academics for the other half. Although he initially saw it as a way to "get out of work free," he found that the school provided him with valuable trade skills. He graduated with a focus in plumbing, but struggled with the idea of not going to college.  After not being able to find a plumbing job because of a bad driving record, he started working on cars for money.  He worked at various body shops for a few years before returning to plumbing.  After getting his license, and inspired by believing he could run a company better than the people he worked for, he opened up his own plumbing business.  As someone who gets board easily, he then moved his interest into real estate and began to research it obsessively, while at the same time picking up work in home remodeling.  Years later he finally had a down payment for his first home that he flipped in a few months.  He was hooked after that and today Phil has 7 rental properties while still running his plumbing business.   Topics in this episode:Going to a trade high schoolNot being able to get a jobBecoming a licensed plumberLearning renovation workBecoming fed up with not getting paid wellLearning about real estate with GoogleTaking some time off to travelStarting a plumbing businessFinding a good mentor Not taking no for an answerFinding your own motivation Find and use your own strengthsBuying and flipping a houseOwning 7 rental properties Connect with Phil Restivo:PR Mechanical Systems Connect with me:Buy some WTOP SWAGWorkingtowardsourpurpose.comFollow me on IGIf you would like to start your own podcast you can find some help at pleasantpodcasts.com

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 opportunitiesConnect with Chelsea:Follow Meraki Supply on IGFollow Chelsea on IGConnect with me:Buy some WTOP SWAGWorkingtowardsourpurpose.comFollow me on IGIf 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 doubtConnect with Joe George:Watch "Stones Throw" music videoJoe George IG and TikTok Into It Over ItConnect with me:Buy some WTOP SWAGWorkingtowardsourpurpose.comFollow me on IGIf 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 lifeConnect with Michael:Follow MC3 on IGFollow MC3 on SubstackBuy a print from MichaelConnect with me:Follow 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 bandConnect 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 locationsAnna V. Salon in Wallingford, CTAvant Garde Salon in Branford, CTGracious Gifts & Home in Branford, CTStoney Creek Depot in Branford, CTConnect 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

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 how changing our diet can improve sustainability and well-being. He also delves into the healing properties of psilocybin mushrooms, the importance ignoring negative thoughts, and the expansion of his mushroom shop. In this episode we explore the power of purpose, holistic living, and the positive impact of following one's heart.Bio: Born as a twin, Patrick Blanchette has always been competitive, leading him to a career in sales. He started off selling Kirby vacuum cleaners, which gave him valuable experience in talking to people and learning sales. This led him to explore different sales options, eventually landing him in the insurance industry. While it was fun at first, Blanchette started asking the bigger questions in life like why are we here, and what is our purpose.  That led him to believe selling insurance wasn't his reason for being here.  That's when he quit and started looking for his purpose.  He found it in mushroom farming and opened Union City Farms, a grower of gourmet mushrooms.  Topics in this episode:Being a twin and a competitive spirt Being introduced to meditation and mindfulness Realizing when a career isn't serving you anymoreQuitting a corporate job with nothing lined upUsing Meditation to let go of negative thoughts Learning how to grow microgreens and mushroomsFinding a love for learning after schoolBenefits of eating different types of mushroomsBook recommendations Dr. Joe Dispenza - Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New OnePema Chödrön - Taking the Leap: Freeing Ourselves from Old Habits and FearsConnect with Patrick:Follow Patrick on IGFollow Patrick on FBGo to Union City Mushroom FarmhouseConnect 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

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.Bio: Kobéy Smith is a certified meditation instructor, mental health advocate, and small business support specialist with the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce. Whether it's through his expertise in mental health or business, Kobéy is dedicated to using his skills to advance the well-being of those around him.  As the founder of Kobéy Enterprises, he is always evolving his business and he learns and grows.  Kobéy is also a podcaster, his show Chattin' with Kobéy can be found on all streaming platforms.  Topics in this episode:Having gratitude for the people who encouraged youStigmas of mental health Living with severe anxietyHow to start meditation if you think you can't Self care as an entrepreneur How to avoid burnoutCreating Kobéy Enterprises Not being afraid to failWhat the Chamber of Commerce does for businesses Starting a podcastBeing your authentic selfConnect with Kobéy:Follow Kobéy on IGChattin' with Kobéy PodcastConnect on LinkedInConnect 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

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 towards her purpose.Bio: Allie O'kane is a certified yoga teacher with a passion for holistic healing. After completing her 200-hour training in Vinyasa and power yoga, she went on to gain certifications in reiki and crystal healing. Allie discovered Kundalini yoga and found it to be the perfect fit for her teaching style. Now certified at 500 hours, she focuses on teaching Kundalini yoga and offering astrology readings, crystal healing, and reiki. Always eager to expand her knowledge, Allie continues to seek out new certifications and opportunities for growth in her practice.10% offer code for Transcend tickets: GETLIFTEDConnect with Allie:Follow Allie on IGLearn more about Transcend Yoga and Wellness FestAllie's Kundalini Yoga membership group 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

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.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

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 power of following one's passions and uncovering one's purpose, the impact of trusting the process, and the importance of finding support from your people. Listen as Genevieve shares her wisdom and experiences, inviting us to reflect on discovering our own unique purpose and inspiring change, no matter how daunting it may seem.Genevieve Piturro was born into a loving Italian-American family, where she felt the pressure to uphold traditions. However, she had a different calling in life. After working in a successful corporate career, Genevieve had an encounter with a group of children living in a homeless shelter, which changed the trajectory of her life. She founded the non-profit organization "Pajama Program," which provides new pajamas and books to children in need.  She has since dedicated her life to helping those less fortunate. Genevieve's story is a testament to following one's passion and making a difference in the world.  Topics in this episode:Leaving a corporate career for something moreStarting a non profit from nothingFeeling guilty for not caring about your corporate job anymore Struggling between financial stability and the desire to make a differenceMaking decisions with the heart and the headWhat being on the Oprah show was like Connect with Genevieve:Genevieve's Book: Purpose, Passion, and PajamasPajama ProgramGenevieve's website Follow Genevieve on IGWatch Genevieve on OprahExercise to find your purpose 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

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 long line of pharmacists. He bounced around from college to college before finally deciding to quit attending and going all in on his CBD business.  He now has multiple employees that help him run his CDB store in Wallingford and his health cafe in New Haven.  Topics in this episode:Feeling constrained by the traditional educational systemDropping out of collegeHaving a positive mindset in prisonBeing a pioneer in the CBD spaceOpening a storefront in a laboratory spaceStarting a second business Running a health cafe in New HavenHiring people and creating systemsAdvocating for a holistic approach to healthConnect with Alex:Cultured CafeFollow Alex on IGThe Remedy Co.Cultured monthly membership boxesConnect 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

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 "The Moon in Your Mind" and how she is transitioning from doing it with a cohost to going solo.  Chelsea gives various 1:1 astrology readings and has just opened up her very own membership! Links below!  Topics in this episode:From getting fired to freelancing Converting a van into a living spaceGetting used to van lifeIntroduction to astrology My first astrology readingStarting a podcast with a friend Continuing a podcast soloConnect with Chelsea:Chelsea's websiteFollow Chelsea on IGWinter Wellness MembershipThe Moon and your Mind PodcastGet an astrology reading by ChelseaConnect 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

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 this episode Derek shares his journey of following intuition, embracing change, and finding success in unexpected places.  Derek let's his curiosity lead him to making connections that lead him to finding her purpose.  He got into podcasting in the early days, and now teaches kids to podcast.  We talk about so many different things in this episode, but most of all I appreciate Derek's energy and motivational way of speaking.  Tune in to hear his whole story and all of the wisdom he shares! Topics in this episode: Working with kids at schools in Brooklyn Leading with curiosityLearning how to sew Attending the Fashion Institute of TechnologyNot worrying about what others thinkPersonal Growth and Learning from ExperienceTaking a job not for pay but for alignment Finding community in running Using podcasting to tell peoples stories Connect with Derek:Derek's websiteFollow Derek on IGBehind the Wheel PodcastDownload Derek's Book "Mine Ur Own Business"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

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 in life!Raheem Nelson is a New Haven-born and raised artist who discovered his passion for art at an early age. Growing up with a love for comic books and cartoons, he began creating his own comics during grade school. As he entered high school at Aces ECA on Audubon Street, his artistic abilities started to flourish, especially in the areas of oils and life drawing. This led him to further his education at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where he focused on cartooning but found that oil painting had the most significant impact on him. During his foundation year at college, he had the opportunity to explore various art forms, just like at ECA, and it was during the oil painting courses that he truly honed his skills and developed a familiarity with working on canvas. Now, Raheem creates his art digitally using his iPad and takes pride in incorporating his New Haven roots into his work, showcasing his unique perspective as an artist.Topics in this episode:Creating and selling comic books at a young ageCommuning to art college in NYC from New HavenWhat it's like finding a job in art after college Balancing day jobs and artistic endeavors Embracing experimentation and willingness to adaptWhat is graphic recording?Having artwork featured in Time Square NYCPurpose and happiness Connect with Raheem:Raheem's websiteFollow Raheem on IG Arts page & Fashion PageFollow Milford Arts CouncilGet your tickets for the networking trip to GhanaConnect 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

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 jobs to focus on building the app, which gained over 50,000 users, but after two years the app didn't achieve their desired monetization goals, so they decided to pivot in a new direction.  Dave and his partner Phil used what they learned developing their own app to help other small businesses do the same.  Founders Approach combines US-based project managers & talented global developers to bring businesses ideas to life without compromising on quality or value.  Dave also opens up about the difficulties of quitting his job and the extreme highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Join us as we dive deep into Dave's inspiring story and uncover the lessons he learned along the way.   Topics we cover:Quitting a corporate job to pursue building a startup appNavigating the emotional and financial challenges of starting a businessBalancing stresses and inconsistent salariesExcitement and fulfillment in the startup experienceExtreme highs and lows, financial struggles, and moments of fulfillment in entrepreneurship  Importance of a supportive co-founder and spouseRelying on referrals and building strong client relationshipsChoosing a lifestyle business approach with a small teamPower of networking and genuine self-promotionThe Journey of starting the podcast to support your businessConnect with The Dave:Founder ApproachListen to his podcast Why I Quit (listen to the episode I was on!!)Connect with Dave on LinkedInConnect 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

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 a coffee shop on wheels gave him a purpose.  We discuss what it was like to bring the idea to fruition, how they survived the pandemic, and their future plans of expanding to a brick and mortar coffee shop.  We covered a lot in this episode but what I didn't mention was how good their dirty chai lattes are.  If you've never had coffee from The Jitter Bus, you need to go check them out!     Topics we cover:New Havens first mobile caféFrom being fired at Starbucks to entrepreneurship Not feeling like college was the right fitStarting a business with your friends The first year of business Vending at farmers marketsUnexpected challenge of exploding an expresso machine Thinking outside the bus to survive the pandemic Connect with The Jitter Bus:The bus can be found on corner of Hillhouse Ave. and Grove St. in downtown New Haven M-F and the Wooster Sq. farmers markets Sat morningsFollow The Jitter Bus on IGthejitterbus.comConnect 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