Identity Work

It's challenging to balance work and family life, particularly during the busy holiday season. In this episode, we explore f feeling stretched between growth and exhaustion, the importance of recognition in the workplace to buffer burnout, and the components of good rest. The conversation also touches on the role of technology, particularly AI, in enhancing work efficiency, and some fun personal Christmas traditions. TakeawaysLiving in a busy world can feel both exhausting and rewarding.Recognition at work is crucial for preventing burnout.Good rest involves detachment, relaxation, control, mastery, meaning, and affiliation.Controversially, Netflix can serve as a form of restful detachment.It's important to have something to look forward to during busy times.Balancing work and family life requires thoughtful planning.Finding meaning in work can help sustain motivation during tough times.Appreciating the recognition you receive is essential for well-being.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcast Highlights02:06 Living in the Zone: Growth vs. Exhaustion06:00 The Balance of Work and Family Life09:54 Research Insights on Burnout and Recognition15:29 Understanding Rest: The DRAMA Model21:31 Finding Meaning in Work and Life27:13 Final Thoughts and Christmas Traditions

In this lively discussion about the challenges of balancing work and parenthood, we discuss the importance of recovery, self-care, and maintaining connections through traditions like Christmas cards. We explore the concept of severance in the workplace, share personal anecdotes about parenting, and reflect on the importance of living in the present. The conversation is filled with insights and practical advice for high achievers navigating the complexities of parental life.TakeawaysWork-life balance is a continuous struggle for many parents. Recovery and rest are essential for improving capabilities and outcomes.Switching off work as parents requires intentional effort and time. It allows time for self-care, even in a busy schedule.Living in the present is vital, as these moments will be missed in the future.It's okay to seek help and advice from others when feeling overwhelmed.Creating boundaries between work and home life can enhance overall well-being.Efforts in both work and parenting need to be seen and appreciated to feel meaningful.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Listener Engagement03:02 The Importance of Christmas Cards05:48 Work-Life Balance and the Concept of Severance08:37 Recovery and Energy Rebuilding in Parenthood11:13 Strategies for Switching Off Work13:59 Finding Time for Self-Care16:53 The Challenges of Parenting and Work19:54 Living in the Present22:46 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

In this 50th episode of the Identity Work Podcast, Adam and Stephen welcome Kyle, head of brand transformation at a large apparel company. The conversation centers around the theme of identity, exploring how individuals can discover and live out their true selves in both personal and professional contexts. Kyle shares his journey of understanding his identity as a 'general in love' and how this has shaped his approach to leadership, parenting, and career decisions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of encouragement, community, and seeking God's guidance in defining one's identity and purpose.TakeawaysIdentity is a core aspect of who we are and how we live. Living out your identity transforms your approach to work and relationships.Kyle's identity statement is 'a general in love', which leads to fearlessness and encouragement.Creating margin in your life is essential for finding opportunities to live out your identity well.Community plays a vital role in affirming and shaping our identities.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Celebration of 50 Episodes02:57 Understanding Identity: Kyle's Journey05:57 Living Out Identity in Daily Life08:50 Coaching and Leadership: A General in Love11:51 Exploring Unique Identities14:34 Strengths and Superpowers in the Workplace17:44 Personal Reflections on Identity Statements21:11 Navigating Fame and Identity25:46 Career Conversations and Guidance31:06 Creating Opportunities for Others31:28 Lessons from Youth and Self-Confidence38:50 Trends in the Workplace41:07 Finding Meaning in Work42:41 Encouragement for ListenersSend us a text

We explore how our living environments significantly influence our work lives, emphasizing the importance of comfort and energy in achieving meaning and productivity at work. It discusses the balance between personal and professional life and how these aspects intertwine to shape our overall well-being.TakeawaysOur lives are influenced by various factors, including our environment. Thus, the energy we bring to work is affected by our comfort and joy in our home situation.Understanding the interplay between home and work can enhance our lives. You should live in an environment that is personalized to you and creates mental safety for you to enter work with the energy needed to make it meaningful. Send us a text

Stephen and Adam discuss the complexities of finding meaning in work, the importance of job crafting, and when it might be necessary to pivot to a new role. They explore personal experiences of leaving jobs too soon (and too early), research insights, and practical advice for navigating job satisfaction and moral dilemmas in the workplace. The conversation emphasizes self-awareness, resilience, and the value of learning in one's career journey.TakeawaysCreating meaning in your job is essential and can enhance job satisfaction, but self-awareness is key to knowing when to pivot.It's important to give new jobs time to adjust. Trust your instincts when making career decisions.Research shows high performers with high confidence may leave jobs sooner.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates02:51 Exploring Meaningful Work and Job Crafting05:33 When to Stay or Leave a Job08:39 Navigating Job Satisfaction and Moral Dilemmas11:51 Research Insights on Job Retention14:33 Reflecting on Past Job Decisions17:19 Learning and Growth in Career Choices20:15 Final ThoughtsSend us a text

Larry Angelilli, former CFO of Moneygram, joins us to share his reflections on retirement, identity, and the pursuit of meaningful work. Larry discusses his career journey, the challenges he faced, and the importance of finding passions outside of work. He emphasizes the role of curiosity in career development and offers insights into the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency and stablecoins. If you're looking for practical advice on navigating your own career path and finding fulfillment in your work, tune in!TakeawaysThe peak of your career can feel behind you after retirement, so it's important to identify yourself outside of your career as well.Finding work that invigorates you is essential for job satisfaction because careers are marked by challenges and crossroads. Curiosity drives career growth and opportunities. Follow it where it leads.You need to be known and recognized in your job to feel fulfilled. Sometimes its better to be a star on a mediocre team than to get lost playing for a Super Bowl.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Larry Angelilli03:03 Reflections on Retirement and Identity06:11 Pursuing Passions Beyond Work09:07 Career Journey and Crossroads18:02 Navigating Career Challenges24:45 Finding Meaningful Work33:19 The Role of Curiosity in Career40:14 Trends in Cryptocurrency and Stablecoins48:04 Advice for Career FulfillmentSend us a text

This week we delve into the complexities of managing pressure and stress in both personal and professional contexts. We explore the differences between stress and pressure, share personal experiences of feeling overwhelmed, and discuss the importance of mindset in navigating challenging situations. The conversation also touches on self-imposed pressure, the significance of finding peace amidst chaos, and insights into future trends in the workplace.TakeawaysStress is self-imposed, while pressure is external. Challenge pressure is beneficial pressure pushing you to something meaningful while hindrance pressure is useless pressure that creates stress for the sake of stressSelf-imposed pressure can be a significant source of stress for high achievers but accepting it and listening to where it is pointing you can lead to greater focus and clarity.Don't let small things become big things. Recognize the finite amount of cares you have and only give some to things that matter to you. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pressure Management01:53 Understanding Stress vs. Pressure04:51 Experiencing Pressure in Real Life08:27 Types of Pressure: Challenge vs. Hindrance13:26 Managing Pressure and Mindset19:01 Self-Imposed Pressure and Expectations23:47 Finding Peace Amidst Pressure28:22 Trend Spotters and Future InsightsSend us a text

This week we delve into the theme of contentment, exploring its nuances and how it contrasts with happiness. Adam shares his personal experiences during parental leave, highlighting the diverse reactions he received from others about his time off. The conversation gets into the complexities of ambition and contentment, particularly for high achievers, and how gratitude plays a crucial role in finding peace in the present. We also discuss a thought-provoking story about a Buddhist monk that challenges conventional views on contentment and passivity, and practical ways that you can cultivate more presence in everyday life.TakeawaysContentment is a separate emotion from happiness.Experiencing both joy and boredom is normal in parenting.Contentment can coexist with ambition and goals.Gratitude is essential for fostering contentment.High achievers often struggle with balancing contentment and ambition.Contentment is about accepting the present moment.Mindfulness can help in recognizing and appreciating what we have.The journey towards contentment requires effort and training.It's important to hold loosely to timelines while maintaining vision.Finding balance in life is a continuous process.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Contentment02:54 Exploring the Catalyst for Contentment05:51 Understanding Contentment vs. Happiness08:39 The High Achiever's Dilemma11:59 Navigating Ambition and Contentment15:57 The Story of the Buddhist Monk19:59 Finding Balance in Life23:29 An Exercise to Build PresenceSend us a text

Matt Higbie joins the show and shares his journey from a hedge fund analyst to a financial planner, discussing the challenges of performance anxiety, the importance of identity beyond work, and the value of personal relationships in financial planning. He reflects on his career transitions, the impact of AI on the industry, and the significance of family life. If you're wondering how to find the balance between high performance and family, or contemplating a job change, this is the episode for you.TakeawaysYou are not alone in your struggles to create meaningful work.Identity is found in personal beliefs, not in work.Performance anxiety is a common struggle in high-pressure jobs.Networking and talking to others helped Matt find his next career path.AI is changing the landscape of financial planning.People value personal relationships in finance more than ever.Curiosity is key in finding a fulfilling career. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Background02:58 The Impact of the Podcast on Matt's Life05:40 Career Transition: From Hedge Fund Analyst to Wealth Management08:38 Navigating Career Decisions and Performance Anxiety11:23 Finding Identity Beyond Work14:40 Networking and Job Search Strategies17:26 Managing Performance Anxiety in New Roles20:22 Tactical Approaches to Reducing Anxiety26:04 Identity and Career Transitions28:17 Family Life and Parenting29:12 Career Advice for the Next Generation34:50 Trends in Financial Planning and AI40:04 Finding Meaning in Work41:55 Splurges and Life ExperiencesSend us a text

Explore the concept of dream jobs and the reality behind them. Stephen and Adam discuss the importance of understanding the day-to-day tasks involved in any job and how to find satisfaction in work through job crafting. The conversation emphasizes the need to embrace the grind rather than chase an idealized version of a dream job, offering practical advice for listeners, including college students entering the workforce.TakeawaysYour dream job is often a fantasy, not reality.Job satisfaction comes from understanding daily, mundane tasks.Job crafting, making small tweaks, can enhance your work experience.Focus on what you enjoy in your current role.Career paths are often a journey, not a destination.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Travel Tips to Oregon02:00 Chasing Your Dream Job08:58 The Reality of Dream Jobs17:44 Job Crafting for Satisfaction22:37 Advice for College Students Entering the WorkforceSend us a text

Vineet Rajan, a former Marine Intelligence officer and now CEO of Forte, shares his transformative experience of redefining identity through introspection and faith. From the challenges of leaving a structured military life to embracing the uncertainties of entrepreneurship, Vineet's story is a testament to the power of aligning personal values with professional aspirations. Tune in to explore how understanding who we are can lead to a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life.TakeawaysIdentity is shaped by our experiences and perceptions.Asking 'Who am I?' is crucial for personal growth.Spending time with God can lead to profound insights about our identity.The order of being and doing is essential for success.Practical steps include journaling, prayer, and seeking guidance from others.The journey to self-discovery is often non-linear and requires patience.It's important to recognize that we are not defined by our performance.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Vineet and Forte01:59 The Journey of Identity and Purpose09:55 Bridging Identity and Action16:59 Practicing Being with God19:41 Tactical Steps to Discovering Identity22:48 Conviction and Principles28:42 Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses29:14 The Journey to Startup Founder35:57 The Birth of Forte40:25 Understanding Forte's Mission and ImpactSend us a text

In this episode of the Identity Work Podcast, we delve into Scottie Scheffler's viral interview that challenges the conventional notions of success. Despite his dominant position as the world's number one golfer, Scheffler reveals that winning tournaments and chasing trophies don't define his identity. Instead, he finds true fulfillment in his family, faith, and being a good husband and father. Join us as we explore the profound insights from Scheffler's perspective and discuss how identity is a multifaceted journey beyond professional achievements.TakeawaysScotty Scheffler's interview highlights the tension between success and personal fulfillment.Achievement does not define one's identity or worth.Family and personal relationships are paramount to true happiness.Quality time with loved ones is more important than quantity.Identity is a complex mix of various roles and passions.Work can enhance personal growth and family life when balanced correctly.The societal pressure to achieve can lead to dissatisfaction.The journey of life is more significant than the destination or achievements.Reflection on identity is crucial during life transitions.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Scottie Scheffler's Viral Interview02:26 Scottie's Perspective on Identity10:17 The Tension of Achievement and Fulfillment15:52 Work-Life Balance and Identity20:17 Personal Reflections on Identity and Parenting27:08 The Journey of Self-Publishing a Children's BookSend us a text

In this episode of the Identity Work Podcast, Stephen and Adam delve into the intricate relationship between identity and work, sparked by recent comments from Scotty Scheffler. They discuss the societal pressures of maintaining a perfect image, the challenges of working long hours, and the importance of finding meaning in one's job. The conversation highlights the mental health implications of burnout and offers practical advice for navigating tough work situations, emphasizing the need for reflection, gratitude, and open communication with colleagues.Chapters00:00 Exploring Identity and Work11:49 The Burden of Long Hours23:22 Finding Meaning in Work28:47 Gratitude and ReflectionTakeawaysIdentity is deeply intertwined with our work.People often feel pressured to present a perfect image.Long working hours can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction.Finding meaning in work is essential for mental health.It's important to take time to reflect on your work situation.Shared experiences with colleagues can foster empathy.Gratitude can help mitigate feelings of burnout.Understanding the context of your work situation is crucial.It's okay to seek help and talk about your struggles.Work-life balance is vital for overall well-being.Send us a text

In this episode of the Identity Work Podcast, hosts Adam Beasley and Stephen engage with guests Mac Bailey and Paul Kiekhaefer in a deep conversation about work existentialism, the challenges of turning 30, and the search for meaningful work. The discussion explores personal experiences with mortality, the journey into government work, and the realization that meaningful work is often created rather than found. The guests reflect on the importance of community, relationships, and the shift from macro aspirations to micro realities in their careers. They also tackle the balance between dreaming big and accepting the realities of life, emphasizing that true fulfillment often comes from personal connections and the impact we have on those around us.TakeawaysReflecting on mortality and purpose after turning 30Meaningful work is often about the impact on immediate communities.The journey into government work can be disillusioning.Finding joy in work is crucial for personal fulfillment.Relationships and community engagement are key to a meaningful life.Dreaming big is important, but reality often tempers those dreams.Meaningful work is created through personal effort and engagement.It's possible to find joy in mundane tasks if approached with the right mindset.The arc of life can curve towards happiness if we allow it. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Work Existentialism02:12 Facing Mortality at 3006:20 The Search for Meaningful Work11:34 Paths to Government Work17:30 The Reality of Government Work23:21 Reflections on Achievement and Happiness28:50 The Ripple Effect of Energy31:39 Dreaming Big: Expectations vs. Reality34:36 The Role of Influence in Change38:20 The Journey of Desires and Ambitions40:40 Being vs. Doing: A Spiritual Perspective42:44 The Parable of the Sower: Measuring Impact49:19 Creating Meaningful WorkSend us a text

Stephen and Adam delve into the complexities of imposter syndrome, exploring personal experiences, cognitive dissonance, and the impact of self-doubt on professional life. They discuss strategies to combat these feelings, emphasizing the importance of self-worth and the acceptance of positive feedback. The conversation highlights the need for humility and the significance of recognizing one's unique contributions in the workplace.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Listener Appreciation03:21 Exploring Imposter Syndrome05:57 Cognitive Dissonance and Self-Perception08:49 Defining Imposter Syndrome12:01 The Impact of Imposter Syndrome14:30 Strategies to Combat Imposter Syndrome17:41 Finding Meaning and Self-Worth20:24 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsTakeawaysImposter syndrome manifests as a fear of being found out.Positive feedback can sometimes exacerbate feelings of inadequacy.Cognitive dissonance plays a significant role in self-perception.The impact of imposter syndrome can lead to burnout and emotional exhaustion.Seeking validation from mentors can help combat feelings of fraudulence.Focusing on personal strengths can alleviate imposter syndrome.Humility can be a double-edged sword in the context of self-worth.Understanding that everyone experiences self-doubt can normalize these feelings.Recognizing and believing in positive feedback is crucial for self-acceptance.Send us a text

In this episode of the Identity Work Podcast, Stephen and Adam interview Meff, a career coach and author, who shares his journey from being a first-generation immigrant to a successful career advisor. Mef Shebi discusses the importance of understanding one's identity and values in creating a meaningful career. He emphasizes the need for curiosity, exposure, and alignment with personal values to find fulfillment in work. Through his experiences, he illustrates how volunteering and authentic connections can lead to discovering one's true purpose. The conversation also touches on frameworks for meaningful work and the shifts in workplace expectations among younger generations.TakeawaysIdentity is critical when making career choices.Cultural perspectives shape how we view work and identity.Success does not always equate to fulfillment.Volunteering can uncover hidden passions and purpose.Frameworks can guide individuals in finding meaningful work.Curiosity, exposure, and values are key to career satisfaction.Meaning in work is actively created, not passively found.The workplace is evolving, with a focus on purpose and well-being.Personal stories can inspire and guide others in their journeys.Taking small actions can lead to significant changes in one's career.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mef's Journey04:15 Cultural Perspectives on Identity and Work10:04 The Script of Success and Its Consequences17:14 The Turning Point: Stress and Realization24:17 Exploring New Paths: From Public Policy to Coaching30:04 The Birth of a Book: How's Work?32:55 Crafting a Vision for Meaningful Work36:42 The Interplay of Curiosity, Exposure, and Values43:54 Finding Meaning in Work: A Framework for Action50:24 Creating Meaning vs. Finding Meaning in Work54:26 Taking Action Towards Meaningful Work59:15 Outro recording Stephen.wavConnect with MefHow's Work: https://www.mc2careercoaching.com/book/p/hows-work LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meftehe/Send us a text

SummaryIn this episode of the Identity Work podcast, Stephen and Adam discuss the journey of Athletic Brewing, the concept of meaningful work, and the importance of feedback and self-worth. They explore the components that contribute to meaningful work, including autonomy, beneficence, competence, and relatedness. The conversation delves into the challenges of receiving feedback, the struggle to find purpose in work, and the significance of community and balance in achieving a fulfilling professional life. The episode concludes with reflections on how to navigate the complexities of work and personal identity.TakeawaysMeaningful work is often a result of struggle and overcoming obstacles.Autonomy and beneficence are crucial components of meaningful work.Feedback can significantly impact self-perception and confidence.It's important to accept compliments graciously as a form of connection.Finding purpose in work can be a long and challenging journey.Community and balance play vital roles in achieving meaningful work.The gap between feedback and self-worth can be difficult to navigate.Exploring the broader purpose of work can enhance job satisfaction.Reflecting on personal strengths can lead to a more fulfilling work experience.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:01 The Catalyst Behind Athletic Brewing06:04 Meaningful Work: The Four Components08:55 Personal Definitions of Meaningful Work11:59 Feedback and Its Impact on Self-Perception14:57 Navigating Praise and Identity17:48 Exploring Beneficence and Relatedness20:53 The Journey to Finding Purpose23:34 Tunnels to Meaningful Work26:36 Final Thoughts and Reflections33:36 OutroSend us a text

In this episode of the Identity Work Podcast, Emma Wood, an executive coach, shares her journey from the wine industry to consulting and ultimately to coaching. She discusses the importance of people in the workplace, the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, and how to navigate identity in relation to work. Emma emphasizes the need to focus on desires rather than societal 'shoulds' and explores the balance between finding and creating meaningful work. Her insights provide valuable guidance for anyone seeking fulfillment in their career.Key TakeawaysThe importance of people in work cannot be overstated.Like coaching for Emma, creating more meaningful work often feels like a natural progression.Awareness and acceptance are key to navigating career changes.Desires can serve as a blueprint for what we are meant to have.Focusing on what energizes us leads to greater satisfaction.The 'shoulds' in our lives create unnecessary pressure.Finding meaningful work involves both luck and active creation.It's essential to loosen attachment to outcomes for better performance.Coaching can help individuals discover their true desires. How to Reach Emmahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/emmamwood/ https://caterpillarcollab.com/ Send us a text

In this episode of The Identity Work Podcast, we share some lovely fan mail before exploring the complexities of early career success, sparked by Adam’s surprising find in People Magazine—an article about child stars. We explore the feeling of having "made it" young but still questioning your path, a sentiment echoed by research on stressed PhD candidates who surprisingly value competence over less work.We discuss creating mental space, from Adam’s sabbatical insights to Stephen’s simple coffee shop ritual. Then, the conversation bursts into an enthusiastic discussion about AI, as Adam reveals how tools like Claude are not only changing his workflow (goodbye SQL!) but also how we think about skills and confidence.Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.ioSend us a text

In this episode of The Identity Work Podcast, we explore what truly makes us happy at work, with special guest Lexi Reiff! We discuss the World Happiness Report and a surprising finding: the perception of kindness across the entire company is a bigger predictor of workplace happiness than your individual boss or even your own competence. We talk about generosity and how expecting kindness from others, often a result of being kind yourself, boosts your own happiness. Lexi shares a fantastic real-life example of her team's daily shared lunches fostering joy and connection, highlighting research on the power of eating together. Even Steven admits he’s often eating at his desk but is inspired to change!Where can you find or create more kindness (and maybe share a meal) at work this week?Podcast Production by Podders: https://podders.ioSend us a text