Working Towards Our Purpose

Pleasant Podcasts

A podcast that explores what it means to work with purpose by interviewing people who are working for more than just a paycheck. Are you in corporate America grinding away the weeks as you watch the years fly by? Do you have that voice in your head that’s asking for something more? But you shouldn’t complain, right? You’ve got a good job, good pay, good benefits. There’s people out there that would kill for a job like that. But that little voice just won’t go away. I’m your host Gino. And as an ex 9-5er I know that feeling all too well. I worked in corporate for 6 years before I finally decided to walk away, choosing to live my life a little differently. And since then, I’ve met some pretty amazing people who do work that positively impacts the people around them, their communities, and the world. This podcast exists to share their stories, and to help inspire you to do the same. Leave that job that you hate and to start working towards your purpose. read less
Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness

Episodes

E33 Harmonizing Music and Film with Joe George
1w ago
E33 Harmonizing Music and Film with Joe George
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.comSubscribe to my SubstackIf you would like to start your own podcast you can find some help at pleasantpodcasts.com
E32 Sharing Lessons from A Trip To Nepal with Michael Cordone
Mar 28 2024
E32 Sharing Lessons from A Trip To Nepal with Michael Cordone
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: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
E31 Blending Music and Working With Your Hands with Cory Reynolds
Mar 14 2024
E31 Blending Music and Working With Your Hands with Cory Reynolds
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
E29 Crafting Purpose through Self-Care Products with Dimitri Cotman
Feb 29 2024
E29 Crafting Purpose through Self-Care Products with Dimitri Cotman
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
E28 The Power of Mushrooms: Nourishing Purpose and Well-Being with Patrick Blanchette
Feb 22 2024
E28 The Power of Mushrooms: Nourishing Purpose and Well-Being with Patrick Blanchette
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
E27 Meditation, Purpose, and Positivity with Kobéy Smith
Feb 15 2024
E27 Meditation, Purpose, and Positivity with Kobéy Smith
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
E26 Creating a Yoga and Wellness Festival with Allie O'Kane
Feb 8 2024
E26 Creating a Yoga and Wellness Festival with Allie O'Kane
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
E24 Finding Purpose by Listening to Your Heart with Genevieve Piturro
Jan 25 2024
E24 Finding Purpose by Listening to Your Heart with Genevieve Piturro
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
E23 Crafting Wellness: CBD, Health Cafe, and Fermented Products with Alex Angeloff
Jan 18 2024
E23 Crafting Wellness: CBD, Health Cafe, and Fermented Products with Alex Angeloff
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
E21 Using Intuition to Guide Us Towards Our Purpose with Derek Okley
Sep 28 2023
E21 Using Intuition to Guide Us Towards Our Purpose with Derek Okley
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
E20 Artistic Entrepreneurship with Raheem Nelson
Sep 14 2023
E20 Artistic Entrepreneurship with Raheem Nelson
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
E19 Navigating the Challenges of Starting a Business with Dave Phelan
Aug 31 2023
E19 Navigating the Challenges of Starting a Business with Dave Phelan
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
E18 The Jitter Bus, New Haven's First Café on Wheels with Dan Barletta
Aug 17 2023
E18 The Jitter Bus, New Haven's First Café on Wheels with Dan Barletta
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