Shows
Purpose ProjectS2E14: Season Finale with Adam BinkerdIn 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...2025-06-1057 min
Purpose ProjectS2E13: How to Do Purpose In the Workplace with Jim MoneyIn 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 Project00:46 Meet...2025-06-0355 min
Purpose ProjectS2E12: Choosing Happiness with Ting Mei ChongIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel sits down with Ting Mei Chong to explore the concept of purpose in the workplace. Ting Mei, a customer engagement and advocacy manager at a global tech company, shares her journey of transitioning from a responsibility-driven purpose of providing for her family to a more personally fulfilling purpose centered around happiness and joy. The episode delves into the importance of finding joy in work, the role companies play in fostering a supportive environment, and how individual purpose can significantly influence professional life. The conversation offers valuable insights for anyone looking...2025-05-2739 min
Purpose ProjectS2E11: Purpose is the Future of Work with Megan FlanaganIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel talks with Megan Flanagan about the significance of purpose in the workplace. Megan shares her journey and dedication to understanding and integrating purpose in both her personal and professional life. The discussion explores how purpose is pivotal for workforce well-being, employee engagement, and organizational success. Megan provides insights on how to cultivate purpose among employees, the critical role of managers, and the importance of acknowledging employees' lives outside of work. The episode emphasizes that purpose is not merely a trend but a fundamental aspect of the future of work.2025-05-2036 min
Purpose ProjectS2E10: Stars of Responsibility with Jim ObermaierIn episode 10 of Purpose Project, Stars of Responsibility, host Leslie Pagel interviews Jim Obermaier, a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience in various sectors of the US government. Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer at the Indiana Department of Child Services, Jim shares insights into whether purpose in the government workplace mirrors that outside it. The discussion delves into Jim's personal life, professional journey, and the importance of purpose in both individual and collective contexts within the workplace. Jim emphasizes the responsibility leaders have in fostering purpose among their teams and how aligning individual and organizational purposes...2025-05-1336 min
Purpose ProjectS2E9: Purpose Is Energy with Maile CollmerIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel sits down with entrepreneur and connector Maile Collmer to discuss the crucial role of purpose in the workplace. Maile shares her journey from a shy, introverted child in Hawaii to a confident business coach. They explore how personal and collective purpose drives small businesses, the importance of meaningful relationships, and the benefits and challenges of integrating purpose into business strategies. Maile also provides actionable advice for leaders looking to foster purpose among their teams, emphasizing the importance of mission statements, consistent communication, and role modeling. The episode underscores how purpose...2025-05-0642 min
The Human Connection PodcastPurpose as a Renewable Energy Source with Leslie PagelIn this energizing episode, host Karl Pontau connects with Leslie Pagel, a trusted consultant and thought leader dedicated to helping organizations design customer experience strategies that provide a competitive edge. Leslie shares powerful insights on how purpose serves as a renewable source of energy for both individuals and companies.Discover why purpose isn't just a statement to hang on the wall but a daily practice that must be embedded into habits and rituals. Learn how successful leaders integrate shared values into everyday conversations and use them for employee development. Leslie and Karl explore the importance of aligning...2025-04-2419 min
Purpose ProjectS2E8: Bringing Our Full Self To Work with Andrea ButcherIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel sits down with Andrea Butcher, a seasoned executive, coach, and entrepreneur committed to human-centered growth. They explore the concept of purpose in the workplace, discussing how individual and organizational purposes intersect. Andrea shares insights on fostering environments where employees feel empowered to be their authentic selves, emphasizing the roles of leadership and culture in this process. They also touch upon personal purpose, and Andrea shares her own journey of self-discovery and leadership development. The episode highlights the shared responsibility of cultivating purpose within organizations and the significant impact it has...2025-04-2245 min
Purpose ProjectS2E7: It's All About Culture with Jeff SmulyanIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel sits down with Jeff Smulyan, a seasoned CEO and entrepreneur, to discuss the critical role of culture and purpose in the business world. Jeff reflects on a societal shift over the past 50 years towards individual self-interest. Jeff also shares his personal journey, the founding of Emmis Communications, and the company's guiding '11 Commandments' that embody its culture and values. The discussion extends to the broader implications of purpose in society, touching on the collective well-being and the need for a shift away from self-absorption. The episode concludes with reflections on...2025-04-1525 min
Purpose ProjectS2E6: Breaking Free From Limiting Beliefs With Kristina FattorussoIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel interviews Kristina Fattorusso, an entrepreneur and realtor who found her purpose in an unexpected way. Kristina shares her journey from corporate America to a thriving career in real estate, driven by her passion for helping others. The discussion explores the importance of aligning personal purpose with professional life, overcoming limiting beliefs, and maintaining a balanced mindset. Kristina offers insights into how purpose and passion integrate into the workplace and the benefits for both individuals and businesses.00:00 Introduction to Purpose Project00:21 Meet Kristina Fattorusso: Entrepreneur and Realtor2025-04-0836 min
Purpose ProjectS2E5: The Soul Of A CompanyIn this episode of Purpose Project, Leslie Pagel sits down with Josh Plaskoff, a leader in employee engagement and a professor of leadership. They discuss the true essence of what brings a business to life—beyond products, numbers, or brands—and focus on the integral role of people, energy, and deeper purpose. Josh shares his personal journey, highlighting his extensive career in corporate leadership and academia. Together, they explore the importance of dialogue, empathy, and the dynamic nature of purpose within both individuals and organizations. The conversation expands to discuss the role of leadership in nurturing purpose and the esse...2025-04-0150 min
Purpose ProjectS2E3: Listening For The Nudge with Angie NuttleIn this episode of Purpose Project, Leslie Pagel is joined by Angie Nuttle, founder of the VIP Center for Business Women. Angie shares her journey of how purpose has guided her in building a business aimed at empowering women. The conversation touches on the importance of mindset shifts, overcoming personal struggles, and listening to one's inner voice to align with their true calling. Angie provides deep insights into the significance of small, purposeful acts and offers advice for women seeking to integrate purpose into their professional lives. If you're looking to uncover your purpose and are open to those...2025-03-1852 min
Purpose ProjectS2E2: Purpose Creates Alignment with Jill CanadaIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel explores the role of purpose in the workplace with Jill Canada, a sales leader in healthcare. Jill shares her perspectives on how purpose fuels performance and the importance of being genuine and authentic. She emphasizes the concept of being a 'lifter' rather than a 'leaner' in both personal and professional settings. Jill discusses her professional journey, the impact of healthcare technology in patient care, and the critical role of purpose in sales leadership. She also provides insights into aligning personal purpose with professional roles and underscores the significance of taking...2025-03-1143 min
Purpose ProjectS2E1: Purpose is Leadership with Cathy Ann ArmourIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel kicks off season two by delving into the significance of purpose in the workplace. Joined by Cathy Ann Armour, CEO of the Better Business Bureau in Indianapolis, they explore how personal and professional purposes intersect. Cathy shares her journey, emphasizing the roles of self-awareness, intentional leadership, and the importance of aligning one's personal purpose with organizational goals. Through their candid discussion, Cathy highlights the essential qualities of trust, integrity, and the pursuit of meaningful work for both leaders and employees.00:00 Introduction to Purpose Project Season Two00:37...2025-03-0447 min
Purpose ProjectS1E19: The Season Finale with Amy HeleineIn the final episode of Purpose Project's first season, host Leslie Pagel and her friend Amy Helene reflect on their year-long journey exploring life's purpose. They discuss the importance of accepting change, personal growth through meditation and journaling, and the impact of living a life aligned with one’s true self. They celebrate the lessons learned from their episodes, revealing how purpose manifests in responsibility, achievement, and state of being. Leslie announces a short break before diving into Season Two, which will focus on how purpose shows up in the workplace. The episode ends with a heartfelt gratitude for th...2024-12-1740 min
Purpose ProjectS1R18: Purpose Is Impact with Marian HodgesIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel welcomes Marian Hodges to discuss her life's purpose and two emerging themes noticed in season one of the podcast. Marian shares her journey of discovering her purpose, emphasizing that living your life’s purpose doesn't mean one must be broke. They discuss the significance of self-understanding, tools like box breathing and journaling, and the concept of a three-legged stool framework to define purpose. The conversation also covers the idea that life's purpose feels overwhelming to many and the importance of defining it individually. Marian encourages listeners to embrace their unique li...2024-12-1038 min
Purpose ProjectS1E17: Getting Out Of Our Own Heads with Emily MellentineIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel interviews Emily Mellentine, a recent college graduate and author who shares her deeply moving journey of battling depression and using writing as a therapeutic tool. Emily discusses how she found her life's purpose in helping others heal through writing and creating a supportive community. She delves into her personal story of dealing with anxiety, and other mental health challenges from a young age, and how writing became her lifeline. Emily talks about her women’s social and writing group, 'Writings from Her Corner,' which aims to build community and cr...2024-12-0343 min
Purpose ProjectS1E16: Getting Curious About Purpose with BT GregsonIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel interviews BT Gregson, a life coach who helps individuals discover and realize their life’s purpose through a method he calls 'peaceful progression.' BT shares insights into his daily rituals, the significance of grounding oneself in their values, and how this alignment can foster a more energetic and fulfilling life. He also discusses common challenges people face when striving to live purposefully and offers practical advice for those beginning their journey towards discovering their purpose. Through their in-depth conversation, Leslie and BT offer valuable perspectives on how curiosity and mi...2024-11-2635 min
Purpose ProjectS1E15: Living in the Present with Kylie SullivanIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel welcomes Kylie Sullivan and her service dog, Finnegan on the show. Kylie shares her profound journey of discovering her life's purpose despite battling Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, a connective tissue disorder. Kylie narrates how her diagnosis at 16 upended her dreams of a dance career but eventually led her to teach dance and advocate for chronic illness awareness. Through personal stories, she discusses navigating depression, finding gratitude, and balancing the highs and lows of life. Kylie's inspiring story offers insights into the power of resilience, the importance of living in the present...2024-11-1934 min
Purpose ProjectS1E14: Living Without a Life's Purpose with Ethan BeuteIn this episode of the Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel and guest Ethan Beute delve into the nuances of living without a singular life's purpose. They explore ideas on finding meaning, the significance of context, and the question of whether it's enough to live a life that role models integrity and the Golden Rule. They discuss the impact of society's individualistic view on the concept of purpose, and reflect on how personal and collective motivations intersect. Ethan shares his unique perspective on how to navigate life by focusing on the next right thing and finding meaning in everyday actions...2024-11-1237 min
Purpose ProjectS1E13: Purpose At The End Of Life with Brandi CombsIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel welcomes Brandi Combs, a social worker with extensive experience in hospice care. They explore the concept of purpose at the end of life through Brandi's compassionate lens. Brandi shares her personal journey, and the significance of connections and resources in end-of-life care. She also discusses the role of a life review in helping patients and families reflect on their legacy. The episode underscores the value of learning from seniors.00:00 Introduction to Purpose Project00:39 Meet Brandi Combs: A Journey in Hospice Care02:17 Exploring Life's Purpose2024-11-0535 min
Purpose ProjectS1E12: Follow Your Dreams with Brittany NeuIn this episode of Purpose Project, Leslie Pagel interviews Brittany Neu, who shares her inspiring journey of living out her life's purpose. Brittany's purpose was sparked by her early experiences with her grandfather and aunt in the hair industry. Despite facing challenges like moving to a new state and starting cosmetology school, she persevered. Brittany discusses her path from beauty school to owning her salon, highlighting the determination, hard work, and relationship-building required to succeed in the industry. She also delves into the financial uncertainties and emotional aspects of the profession, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's job with...2024-10-2928 min
Purpose ProjectS1E11: Chasing Purpose with Don WettrickIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel interviews Don Wettrick, founder and CEO of STARTedUP and a former teacher. Don discusses his transition from teaching to promoting innovation and entrepreneurship among students. He shares how a TED Talk by Daniel Pink inspired him to integrate mastery, autonomy, and purpose into his teaching philosophy, leading to the creation of an Innovation and Open Source Learning class. This class culminated in the successful 'Innovate WithIN' program. Don highlights the importance of overcoming fear, taking calculated risks, and seeking support from loved ones. He emphasizes the need for self-discovery, problem-solving...2024-10-2237 min
Purpose ProjectS1E10: Reclaiming Our Power with Jiamia McCoyIn this enlightening episode of Purpose Project, Leslie Pagel introduces Jiamia McCoy, a resilient woman who has navigated trauma to reclaim her power. Jiamia speaks about her role as a mother, her work with survivors of human trafficking, and her journey of self-discovery and healing. The episode delves into the importance of recognizing one's story, connecting with one's ancestry, and the transformative power of yoga in releasing trauma. The conversation emphasizes the significance of trust, community healing, and overcoming imposter syndrome through self-care routines and communal support. Tune in to learn about building resilient communities, overcoming personal obstacles, and...2024-10-1540 min
Purpose ProjectS1E9: The Study of Life's Purpose with Jenn StephensIn this episode of Purpose Project, Leslie Pagel talks with guest Jenn Stephens about identifying and integrating her unique personal strengths into a fulfilling life of purpose. Jenn discusses how she balanced her creative, analytical, and empathetic abilities over time, navigating societal expectations and career challenges. Through personal and professional experiences, Jenn found her purpose in understanding and helping others, using her insights to mentor and guide others in similar journeys. Leslie also reflects on her journey towards finding her own purpose, sparked by personal reflection and advice from a close friend. The episode explores themes of self-discovery, the...2024-10-0834 min
Purpose ProjectS1E8: Why Me with Ramatoulaye DialloIn this episode of Purpose Project, host Leslie Pagel interviews Rahma Diallo, who shares her impactful journey from growing up in Guinea, West Africa, to discovering her purpose in the United States. Rahma talks about her passion for education, inspired by the opportunities her father had received, and her unwavering dedication to helping young girls in Guinea pursue their dreams. The conversation delves into Rahma's efforts to establish a non-profit organization. Through her story, Rahma emphasizes the importance of paying it forward and living a meaningful life, highlighting the ripple effect that one person's actions can have on generational...2024-10-0139 min