Living Your Passion

Today's guest, Toni Sicola (#47), is the sister-in-law of my good friend and former co-worker at Marketo ... Dayna Rothman! As it turns out, Toni's husband (Loren) messaged me on Facebook and suggested I chat with his wife - a person he felt was very passionate. Loren was right! Toni and I hit it off immediately. She had me at bone broth. Toni's passion: Helping People Heal their Gut (aka "Gut Health") In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Toni and her passion for GUT HEALTH? During this episode ... We talked about the percentage of people (99.9%!) who consume content yet never tell you - the creator of said content. Crazy! Toni shared how she uncovered her passion - through a personal struggle with her own health problems, specifically a life-long battle with acne. Toni talked about how after drinking homemade bone broth for two straight weeks ... her acne was gone. Literally gone. Cleared up entirely. As Toni said, this was amazing, especially "after 20 years of drama and who knows how much money" trying to cure her acne. Wow! Toni shared more about BONE BROTH ... and mirepoix! Toni talked about how she "discovered" bone broth. Toni discussed how she hopes - some day - to turn her passion into a business. We talked - briefly - about stress and wellness. More About Toni Sicola According to Twitter: Exploring wellness as a creative process, learning what works and doesn't work for mind, body and spirit -- food, nutrition, cooking, gardening, adventure. Learn more about Toni on her About Me page. Links Discussed In This Episode CultivatedWellbeing.com - blog Twitter Toni's entire "Gut Health" blog post series: Why Gut Health Matters: A Series on You Why Gut Health Matters: Your Gate Keeper Why Gut Health Matters: Your Mood Why Gut Health Matters: Your Weight Why Gut Health Matters: Your Skin Why Gut Health Matters: Your Stress Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James and/or Coach Jim Harbaugh (two guys who bleed passion), please let me know. #DeadSerious

I connected with Matt Miller (guest #46) thanks to a LinkedIn message he sent me at the end of 2014. He heard the episode I had published with John Lee Dumas on Inspiring Millions and asked to be on the show. Once Matt shared his story with me, it was a no-brainer. Matt is full of passion(s)! Matt's passions: helping families diversify, helping schools raise money, and inspiring children to read. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Matt's ... passions? During this episode ... Matt shared what he learned years ago, "If you help other people, you'll be taken care of." Matt talked about how he continues to grow and diversify his various businesses. We talked a bit about the comic book industry - from back in the day and now today! Matt shared how being an Air Force Pilot made him realize that there was more to life then focusing just on himself! More About Matt Miller According to Matt's LinkedIn summary ... "I'm a former Air Force pilot and advertising executive, turned serial entrepreneur. My business expertise is in developing hassle-free fundraising programs for schools and secondary income streams for busy professionals." Learn more about Matt on LinkedIn. Links Discussed In This Episode School Spirit Vending and School News Guru raise hassle-free funds for schools across the country Comic book company Sticker Swarm Media Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James and/or Coach Jim Harbaugh (two guys who bleed passion), please let me know. #DeadSerious

I have known today's guest, Tim Hayden (or THE Tim Hayden, #45) for years. And I love the dude. We speak the same language on many many MANY life issues. Tim is my go-to guy when it comes to finding the best restaurant in any city. Literally any city. From my recollection, he is 7/7 on recommending kick ass restaurants. Tim and I first met - first had a beer, that is - in Chicago several years ago. The rest, as they say, is history. Tim's passion: Getting uncomfortable. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Tim's passion for getting uncomfortable? During this episode ... Tim shared that "beer seals the deal" when it comes to relationships. I could not agree more, considering I met my wife at a bar. Ha! I asked Tim what his passion was, and he ... well ... got into it. We boiled his passion down to "getting uncomfortable." We were joined by my son, Cal. #HomeSick. Like his dad, he likes to hear his own voice. We talked about parenting, of course, and taking your children everywhere. Tim encouraged folks to get out ... explore ... get uncomfortable. Tim talked about his family experience with The Sunday Drive. VERY VERY cool. We talked about "keeping up with the Joneses" from both a personal and business sense. Tim shared how he is personally getting uncomfortable. Tim gave some suggestions on how to mix things up, how to get uncomfortable. More About THE Tim Hayden According to Twitter, Tim is the ... co-Author of The Mobile Commerce Revolution (QUE, 2014). Empowering progress in the age of mobility, Husband, Dad, Son & Friend to more humans than robots. Follow [the] Tim on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode My podcast chat with Tim's friend and former co-worker, Cierra Savatgy-King THE Tim Hayden on Twitter My Insanity blog post Tim's business, TTH Strategy Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James and/or Coach Jim Harbaugh (two guys who bleed passion), please let me know. #DeadSerious

Today's guest (#44) is Casie Shimansky.Casie as in "kay-cee" or "KC." As it turns out, Casie and I connected first through #Bufferchat (read the summary here). Casie is passionate, funny, witty, and has an interesting story to tell! Casie's passion: Living Out Loud In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Casie's passion for living out loud? During this episode ... We talked about how we first met (online, through a Twitter chat, of course). Casie dove into how a major (negative) life event - the sudden passing of her sister - led her to her passion ... living out loud. Casie shared that it took her nearly 5 years to get back on track after her sister's death. We talked a bit about depression - something I think way more people suffer from then we truly know about. Casie talked about how she tries to find "one small win" throughout the day to keep her going. LOVE LOVE LOVE this! Casie described how her passion - Living Out Loud - looked in the beginning and how it evolved over the years. Casie shared some of the items on her bucket list (i.e., cage diving with Great White Sharks in South Africa) - things that are totally scary to her - that she will be doing soon! We discussed how Casie could turn her passion for living out loud into a career (spoiler alert: she's still trying to figure this one out)! More About Casie [kay-cee; KC] According to Twitter, Casie is all about ... Storytelling through Social | Jersey Born | Florida Livin' | Theme Park Roamin' | Yanks Fan | #StBaldricks Photographer & Team Captain | #StepUp | #LiveOutLoud." Follow Casie on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode Casie on Twitter The most awesome "finger warm up" video for a Twitter chat (#Bufferchat) EVER. Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James and/or Coach Jim Harbaugh (two guys who bleed passion), please let me know. #DeadSerious

I met Greg Hemmings (guest #43) through a a Facebook Group I'm part of ... Marketers with Beards (I've since shaved my facial hair, but have not been kicked out of the group yet!). Greg posted an amazing video to the group of an awesomely-bearded gentlemen named Matt White (who turned out to be a Living Your Passion guest - listen/read here). Greg is a story teller ... a story SHARER, if you will. His medium: Film. And quite logically, Greg's passion: Connecting People Through Killer Stories In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Greg's passion for connecting people through killer stories? During this episode ... We talked about several of the past Living Your Passion guests having a common thread (or theme) of people ... and why this was the case. Greg shared some details about the new documentary he's working on: The Millennial Dream. Greg talked about how his documentary is exploring why millennials are more interested in making a positive impact versus just making a high salary. We explored why people are not happy at work. We talked about ... what if ... everyone was happy. Greg tried to slip in that he lived on a boat in the Caribbean for four years! I did NOT see that coming. Right? Greg talked about all of the cool (film) projects he's working on - living his passion! I basically told Greg that I'd LOVE to be on a project he's working on. Ha! More About Greg According to Twitter, Greg is a "television producer from Canada that produces a very strange and wonderful set of adventures." Follow Greg on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode Greg's company, Hemmings House Greg on Twitter Hemmings House on Twitter Greg's podcast, The Boiling Point (here is the episode I was a guest on!) Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James and/or Coach Jim Harbaugh (two guys who bleed passion), please let me know. #DeadSerious

Katy Widrick (guest #42) and I first exchanged emails on December 19, 2010 (and I have the original email!). We had just met each other in person in Tampa, Florida after Jason Keath's kick ass event, Social Fresh (check out Jason's new podcast, Social Toolkit).  A lot has changed since then. We both are parents. I've had a few jobs. And Katy is now really, truly living her passion. Katy's passion: Active Living. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Katy's passion for active living? During this episode ... We talked about how we met over 5 years ago at Social Fresh Tampa ... and all the lasting connections we made at that event. NETWORKING! We chatted about poop, boobs, diapers, and babies (of course). Katy shared how she was someone who lived actively for most of her life -- but also got into bad habits (eating more, exercising less, etc). Katy talked about the "turning point" in her life (her "ah-ha" moment), 7 years ago, when she realized she needed to (once again) live a more active life. Katy shared her 2nd "ah-ha" moment ... when she realized it was less about weight and more about health and fitness - building strength, getting more flexible, etc. We connected passion to fitness. Love it! I sang (rapped?) a bit. You may want to fast-forward that part. Ha. Katy advised people to "open their mind" ... try new things ... put yourself out there! We talked about P90X (Katy has done it 3 times - crazy). We did 10 pushups (with good form, of course) - at the end of the show! More About Katy Emmy-nominated producer @GROWINGBOLDER | blogger @HuffPost | #Fitfluential | #ZeroLimits | wife @nighthops | mama @BugChild | AFAA-certified | PiYo Strength. Follow Katy on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode Katy on Twitter KatyWidrick.com You can also find Katy @KWidrick ... just about everywhere! Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James and/or Coach Jim Harbaugh (two guys who bleed passion), please let me know. #DeadSerious

I was introduced to today's guest (#41), Matt White, through a video. But this was not just any video. It was a video about Matt ... and his facial hair. The more I chatted with Matt, the more I full understood - and appreciated - his ... obsession ... with facial hair. Matt's passion (of course!): facial hair and mens grooming. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Matt's passion for facial hair and mens grooming? During this episode ... I shared how I was introduced to Matt ... and his facial hair. Matt described - in great detail - what his beard looked like on the day of the recording. Matt shared how he was the only human ever born with a full beard (kidding, of course!). Matt talked about how he has really always been fascinated with facial hair - how he could "hardly wait" to have a beard like his brother, twelve years his senior. And how he would sometimes dream about having a beard, only to wake up in the morning ... disappointed with his hair-less face. I told the story of my father's 80s style beard (which he grew in the 80s, of course). My sister and I freaked out when he shaved his facial hair! Matt shared how his passion/obsession with facial hair turned into a business. I compared Matt to Pai Mei (from the movie Kill Bill) - see pic. I suggested Matt partner up with Duluth Trading. More About Matt Matt is the founder and creator of Sussex Beard Oil, a company who sells beard oil, beard soap, (t-shirts!), and other facial hair related products. Follow Matt and his beard on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode Matt / Sussex Beard Oil on Twitter Sussex Beard Oil website Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James and/or Coach Jim Harbaugh (two guys who bleed passion), please let me know. #DeadSerious

Thanks to a terrible (yet effective) email introduction from my buddy, Tim Hayden, I was able to bring Cierra Savatgy-King (guest #40) on today's show. It took a "quarter-life crisis" to realize what Cierra's passion was, yet it was actually something she had been thinking about since she was a little girl. Cierra's passion: creating extremely unique experiences that make people happy. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Cierra's passion for creating extremely unique experiences that make people happy? During this episode ... Cierra shared her childhood passion ... her long-time love for music. We talked about common thread. Cierra shared how she "kept her dream in a box" until she was about 25 years old. Cierra talked about how she put everything on the line and put her musical career on the front burner ... however, she didn't love it. In her words, "this rocked my world." Cierra realized after putting in 2+ years of work to release a CD that she did not love the music industry. She knew she needed to change and went down the path to uncover her passion. Cierra shared the process for finding - then living - her passion. Cierra talked about how her boyfriend and her decided to pack up their entire house, put everything in a storage unit, and live in vacation rentals in Austin. 18 months (and 18 different house) later, they began seeing the world differently. Cierra shared the details of her new venture, Reset Retreat - getting women together, get out of their comfort zone, grow, figure out what makes them happy, and more! More About Cierra @PigtailMedia founder-Social media for hospitality. Pop/soul singer. Lives on Airbnb & Home Away. Fan of exploring & handstands. Co-founder, @ResetRetreat. Learn more about Cierra on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode Cierra on Twitter Reset Retreat on Twitter Reset Retreat Website Blog post about Cierra and her boyfriend's travels on vacation rentals Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James and/or Coach Jim Harbaugh (two guys who bleed passion), please let me know. #DeadSerious

I was introduced to today's guest (#39!), Amy Rueda, through my good friends Courtney and Bryan Kramer. We were fortunate enough to record this episode live, in the Purematter office "studio." Thanks Courtney and Bryan for the space (and the coffee!). Amy's passion: Being the voice of change for safe beauty. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Amy's passion for being the voice of change for safe beauty? During this episode ... We chatted about how we first met ... as I try to do with all guests! Amy shared how she defines "safe beauty." Amy was very open about her fight with cancer. Amy talked about an event - in her case, cancer - led her to uncover her passion. She also gave a great definition about passion (or her "truth") as she called it. Amy told us about her personal truth ... she admits that she actually gave herself cancer! Amy shared her story about how she started her company, Authentic Skin, and why she was able to turn her passion into a living. We talked a lot about the "quick fix" instead of preventative options. We talked quite a bit (too much!?) about deodorant! You don't want to miss this part! In the #NotSoSecretSecret portion of the show, we talked about WEEDS! More About Amy Amy is the founder and creative director at Authentic Skin Remedies plant based skincare. Learn more about Amy on her About.me page. Links Discussed In This Episode Amy on Twitter Amy's company, Authentic Skin My Common Thread blog post The Alchemist (great book!) Amy on Instagram Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

Today's guest, Hitha Paleupa (#38), is a Social Butterfly Guy email subscriber. It turns out one of my Waldow Weekly WhazzupDATES started a conversation that led to this recording. Boom! Hitha's passion: Helping everyone pack faster and live better In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Hitha's passion for helping everyone pack faster and live better? During this episode ... Hitha talked about how she's been traveling ever since she was a baby (first flight at 6 months old) - every two years they'd travel to India to see family. Hitha shared her vivid memory of how her mom would methodically pack for all trips - lay the suitcases out, get "special treats" to bring, and more! We talked about this scene from Slumdog Millionaire. Hitha shared how Hitha on the Go turned from a "hobby blog" to a full-time business. Hitha shared how she does "one-on-one" packing sessions ... via Skype. Cool, right? We chatted about how Hitha's "packing mistakes" led her to her starting a business about how to pack - a niche I'd argue she now owns! We discussed our biggest gripes in hotels: Mine - why is the beer in the wet bar not free? Hitha's - power outlet placement ... sucks! Hitha shared her thoughts on "Do What You Love | Love What You Do." We learned Hitha is pregnant (6 months when we recorded this; close to 8 when this episode goes live!) More About Hitha According to Twitter, Hitha is ... an entrepreneur. writer. traveler. wife. mama-to-be. eagles fan. taco lover. always down for a dance party. Want to learn more about Hitha? Check out her About page. Links Discussed In This Episode Her website/business, Hitha on the Go Hitha on Twitter Hitha on Instagram Hitha on the Go on Facebook Hitha (on the Go) on Pinterest Hitha's weekly travel tips series Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

I've had the honor of knowing - and being friends with - today's guest (#37!) Ann Handley - for ... well ... a long time. She's smart. She's funny (proof here). She does not take herself too seriously (see #AnnIsNotImpressed). Oh, and she also happens to be one of the best writers I know ... and has a new best-selling book out, Everybody Writes (see my book review blog post / video).  Follow Ann online, read her book, talk with her on Skype (or in person!) and you'll quickly realize what her passion is. I'd ask you to guess, but it's in the title of this blog post (and below). Ann's passion: Ridiculously good writing. And while we certainly talked about Ann's passion, we joked around and had a ton of fun on this show. Also, that picture of Ann? The one in this post with her in the Santa gear? Yeah. Let's just say that was the toughest part of this post -- choosing the picture! So many good/funny ones to pick from. One more thing (confession): I have to admit, I felt a boatload of pressure to ensure this blog post was a "ridiculously good" piece of writing devoid of grammatical errors. Triple Serious. #SSS. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Ann's passion for ridiculously good writing? During this episode ... We spent an inordinate about of time talking about how we met. Ann taught me about adjectives and adverbs and other grammatical "things." Ann shared what she meant by "ridiculously good writing." Ann brought us back to her "Little Annie" days (hint: She's always wanted to be a writter <---extra "t," I know -- listen to show to understand why!). Ann talked about how she invented blogging - she used to hand write a neighborhood newsletter! Ann revealed how she was VERY shy as a child. If you know Ann now, this is kinda shocking. We heard from Morocco, our boxer/lab dog. Ann shared how she's really been writing her entire life -- she had multiple pen pals -- and multiple names/personalities. Too funny! I basically told Ann she needs to write her autobiography. Yup. When it happens someday, I WANT THE CREDIT! Ann talked about how her parents practiced "benign neglect" when it came to all of her endeavors. We talked about parenting in general. Ann shared her career as "Little Annie" to her current job as Chief Marketing Officer at MarketingProfs (her common thread is "audience."). I praised Ann - often - about how she's such an amazing communicator. Ann shared a few of the "rules" of ridiculously good writing. I read Ann's "Ode to a Bookmark." Ann gave some sound advice on how to uncover -- then live -- one's passion. #TrustYourInnerVoice More About Ann According to the About page on AnnHandley.com ... Ann Handley is a veteran of creating and managing digital content to build relationships for organizations and individuals. Ann is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestseller Everybody Writes: Your Go-To Guide to Creating Ridiculously Good Content (September 2014, Wiley) and co-author of the best-selling book on content marketing, Content Rules: How to Create Killer Blogs, Podcasts, Videos, Ebooks, Webinars (and More) That Engage Customers and Ignite Your Business (2011, Wiley). She is the Chief Content Officer of MarketingProfs; a columnist for Entrepreneur magazine; a LinkedIn Influencer; a keynote speaker, mom, and writer. Links Discussed In This Episode AnnHandley.com - Ann's blog! How Ann invented blogging ... back in the day. My blog post / video review of Ann's new book, Everybody Writes. Ann on Twitter Ann on Facebook Ann on Google MarketingProfs Ann was the 100th guest on The Work Talk Show! Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

Some Living Your Passion guests I seek out; others somehow come to me! The latter is the case for today's guest, Brad Kelly (#36). He came to me through this tweet from Tiffany Thorton! @MOFinancial knows this better than anyone “@buffer: Join us on Wednesday to chat about living your passion with @djwaldow! #bufferchat...” — Tiffany Thornton (@WarmYourHeart) November 3, 2014 Brad's passion: Helping others chase their dreams In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Brad's passion for dream chasing? During this episode, Brad ... Shared how he uncovered his passion. Talked about how he truly loves helping other people - something past guests have shared too Expanded on how he - along with his wife - helps people chase their dreams. Discussed how he moved to Williston, North Dakota, lived in his car for a week, and watched the money flow in. Crazy, huh? Shared how his wife started writing ... which soon turned into a book ... and a series (a super-hero series!) Talked about how he has lived in 7 different states since he's been married. Shared how Colorworld Books is already helping people chase their dreams. Stressed the importance of being honest ... I could not agree more! Talked a lot about superheroes! More About Brad CEO, CMO, Sourcing Expert, #IAmLogistics, @ColorworldBooks Marketing Department, #BIBA and MOF Founder...oh, & I trade stocks & options.. Learn more about Brad on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode A Rig is Down - an article Brad's wife Rachel wrote that went "viral." Colorworld Books Brad on Twitter Colorworld Books on Twitter Colorworld Books Kickstarter campaign - FUNDED! Colorworld Books on Facebook Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

Thanks to an email introduction from future Living Your Passion guest, Matt Miller, I was fortunate enough to chat with Aaron Walker, today's guest ... #35! Aaron reminds me a lot of me ... but WAY smarter and more seasoned. Ha! Aaron's passion: Helping men reach their full potential and find their identity In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Aaron's passion for helping men reach their full potential and find their identity? During this episode, Aaron ... Expanded on what it means to help a man reach their full potential. Gave me a free mini-coaching session! Broke down the process of how he lives his passion ... via one-on-one coaching. Was very patient while I talked (a bit too much!). Talked about how we live the lives others WANT us to live. <--interesting! Listened as I talked about mindlessness vs. mindfulness. Shared his thoughts on minimalism - getting rid of the crap (my word) in your life. Forced me to virtually reach through the microphone and hug him when he said we all need to "err on the side of family." Aaron said that relationships are the key to your success. BOOM. Brought us back to "Little Aaron Walker" (aka, has he always been passionate about helping men reach their full potential and find their identity?). Short answer: NO! Shared a very personal story about how he got to where he is today. Stated very clearly, "your identity is in who you ARE ... not in what you DO." More About Aaron I have owned 8 successful businesses selling out to a Fortune 500 Company. I can help you reach heights you never dreamed possible. Im a Life and Business coach. Learn more about Aaron on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode View From The Top - Aaron's site/blog/business Iron Sharpens Iron - Aaron's Mastermind Group Aaron on Twitter Email Aaron! Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

A few days after launching Living Your Passion, I received the following email:  I'm currently listening to your first episode (I love Jeff's work!) and I'm really excited to add this to my shortlist of podcasts. It might be shameless self-promotion, but if you are looking for guests I'd love to be on. I'm incredibly passionate about web development and education and combining the 2. I've written 3 books on web development (2 on WordPress specifically) and I'm planning a 4th. Thanks for creating a cool podcast. I look forward to future episodes! A few months and a handful of email exchanges later, and Joe Casabona - today's guest (#34) - shared his passion! Joe's passion: Web Design In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Joe's passion for web design? During this episode, Joe ... Threw me for a loop when he shared his passion! Talked about the difference between "web design" and "making things on the web." LOVE IT! Explained the difference between front-end and back-end design ... in a very-easy-to-understand manner! Took us back to his early childhood ("Little Joe"). This is where it all began - his passion for making things on the web. Shared how he built his first webpage ... as a sophomore in high school. Cool, huh? Talked about how he made mix CDs in high school. Too funny! Shared his "common thread" - the one thing that has always been there ... throughout Joe's entire life. Very interesting to see how it's evolved AND how Joe is thinking about the future at his young age of 28. Answered my go-to question: "How does one go about finding - then living - their passion?" More About Joe Front End Developer at @crowdfavorite. Author of Responsive Design with WordPress. All around nerd. I like cigars & play the drums. Learn more about Joe on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode Google "Joe Casabona" Casabona.org, Joe's website Responsive Design with Wordpress (and Joe's other books) TIL Podcast - Joe's podcast Joe on Twitter Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

I received the following email from the wife (Kate) of today's guest (#33), Pete Farmer. I just stumbled across your website and podcast and couldn't help but think of our little business, Farmer Foot Drums, and my husband Pete Farmer. We built this business from scratch and it has been an incredible labor of love to see a dream and passion through. Pete is hands down the most determined, motivated, creative and passionate person I know - he is a self-taught designer, engineer, craftsman and musician. He has designed and created truly unique musical instruments and started a web retail business without any formal education in music, business, website, or graphic design. We now have three young children and I am on board (part-time) and it is now a true family business. Wow, right? As you can imagine, I replied immediately and a few weeks later, Pete and I were talking! Pete's passion: Giving tools to musicians to express themselves musically. As it turns out - right now - these tools are FOOT DRUMS. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Pete's passion for foot drums? During this episode ... Pete talked about The Gold Rush (a few times). Pete shared how he became interested in foot drums ... and explained what a foot drum is! You will quickly learn how freaking NICE Pete is. You will meet Pete's 4-year old George (maybe not meet, but you will hear him!). Pete through me for a loop when he talked about being interested in building during his childhood ... not necessarily music. We talked about Nick Offerman (aka Ron Swanson from Parks and Rec) ... though neither of us were able to recall his name in real time! Pete shared how he found his passion pretty early on in life - or so he thought. Pete talked about how 2008 was a crazy year - both personally and professionally. Pete basically said to NOT do what I did. Ha! We talked about beer and Michigan football in the #NotSoSecretSecretShow In fact, we had quite a discussion in the #NotSoSecretSecretShow More About Pete According to the Farmer Foot Drums about page, Pete is "a teacher and historian by trade, Pete is a self-taught musician, craftsman, and businessman, following his passions for music, design, and working with his hands. He is the brains behind all Farmer Foot Drum instruments and singlehandedly turned the ideas in his head into a full-time business. He works with intense focus and dedication and has been known to lose all sense of time and forget to eat when he gets going." Links Discussed In This Episode Farmer Foot Drums - Pete's website Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

I met today's guest (#32), Marla Aufman, at my buddy Bryan Kramer's TED Talk in September. Marla was the event's photographer, of course. Marla's passion: PHOTOGRAPHY She's photographed the King of Jordan and King (LeBron) James. Oh, and Kobe Bryant, Sharon Stone, Ice Cube, and more. Marla is amazing. Human. Real. Fun. We chatted in her loft in Northern California. So much fun! In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Marla's passion for photography? During this episode ... Marla shared how it was a high school class - black and white photography - that inspired her passion for ... well ... photography! Marla (nonchalantly) mentioned how she has photographed Ice Cube, Gordon Ramsey, Sharon Stone, LeBron James, THE KING OF JORDAN, and more! Marla mentioned taking pictures in Nepal (behind riot police lines). CRAZY!!! Marla discussed her background as photo editor at Wired Magazine. Marla talked about how she pretty much carries a camera no matter where she goes. I learned quickly that Marla was NOT a sports fan. Ha! Marla shared that photography will likely always be part of who she is and what she does. We discussed how photography has changed/evolved thanks to everyone having cameras (see: smartphones and Instagram). We talked about pictures vs. videos. I drank a REALLY good beer. We were ready to wrap up the show when Marla dropped this nugget - SHE HAS PHOTOGRAPHED LEBRON JAMES ... my dream guest for this show. We carried on with the name-drops - Bill Gates, Kobe Bryant, Sharon Stone, and more - in the #NotSoSecretSecret portion of the show. More About Marla Marla Aufmuth is a portrait and corporate lifestyle photographer working with advertising, editorial, and corporate clients. Learn more about Marla on LinkedIn. Links Discussed In This Episode Jeff Sheldon - the first guest on Living Your Passion! Kelli Bramble - our family photographer! Marla Aufmuth's portfolio/site Marla's events site Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

Re: Guests, a friend/fellow podcaster that might be a good one (or at least checking out her podcast/blog for inspiration): http://jesslively.com/about/ She’s all about living with purpose and intention. Just moved to Austin too (jealous!) That was the email I received from Sadie Cornelius in early September. After a bit of back and forth, I was able to chat with Jess Lively, today's guest (#31!). As you'll hear, Jess lives up to her last name. We had a very spirited, fun, insightful chat. Jess's passion: Values-Based Intentions. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about what the heck Jess means by Values-Based Intentions? During this episode ... Jess talked about how she invented the phrase (and her passion!) values-based intentions Jess shared the story behind the tattoos ... that she now sells. Jess told us how she got started selling stuff at an early age. Jess shared how she came to her passion - value-based intentions (hint: it took 8 years!). We had a long, yet healthy, discussion around the word PASSION. I talked about my passion for people -- my common thread. Jess drops lots of "knowledge nuggets." Jess talked about "serving in the present moment." <-- LOVE THIS! Jess told us about her podcast, The Lively Show. Jess gave some advice on how people can find their passion (or whatever word you want to use!): SIGN UP FOR JESS'S CLASS!! We talked about how we both met our significant others at a bar! I told the story about how I met my wife (on the #NotSoSecretSecret portion of the show). More About Jess I help people transform their approach to life through Values-based intentions and have a podcast called http://TheLivelyShow.com.  Learn more about Jess on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode The Lively Show - Jess's podcast Jess's tattoos ... that she sells Jess on Twitter Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

Another guest (#30), another person from the state of Utah (#3). I was introduced to today's Shawn Sadowski, from another friend from Salt Lake City, Kathy Dalton. Shawn's passion is similar to past guest Garin Hess ... with a twist. Shawn is passionate about helping entrepreneurs find their career path. In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about how Shawn is living his passion of helping entrepreneurs find their career path? During this episode ... Shawn and I chatted about our mutual Salt Lake City friend, Kathy Dalton. We discuss this "movement" of ... well ... doing your own thing (aka starting your own company). Shawn shared his belief that companies have no loyalty to their employees (I kinda agree). We both agreed that their is a false sense of security when working at an organization. We referenced a great movie, Field of Dreams. We talked about fear, risk, and doing something AWESOME. We took a tip from my wife - Kristina - and I asked Shawn to explain a bit more about how he uncovered his passion ... and boy did he #SetTheBarHigh I teased Shawn about editing (Hint: I RARELY edit the show!). I rapped Ice Ice Baby (a bit) ... again! More About Shawn Experienced entrepreneur and executive with a demonstrated track record of leadership in a variety of challenging business environments, ranging from new venture development and profit maximization to market entry and growth. Learn more about Shawn on LinkedIn. Links Discussed In This Episode Shawn on LinkedIn Shawn's business The TOUR! Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

Today's guest - #29 - Paul Sokol, is one of those good guys. He's a self-proclaimed "Campaign Builder Mad Scientist at Infusionsoft. He enjoys a good beer ... and music. And when I say Paul enjoys music, that's a HUGE understatement. Paul's passion: Keeping youth music programs in schools (or keeping music in our cultural fabric). In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about Paul's master plan to keep music in our cultural fabric? During this episode ... Paul talked about how music has been in his life most of his life. Paul shared how public school budgets are being cut - specifically the arts ... and music. This sucks - so says Paul (and I agree!). I told the story of my cello-playing days. Paul talked about how his parents were instrumental (no pun intended) in his love for music. Paul tossed out a ton of bands/artists I'd never heard of. Ha! We bonded over our love for Tupac, Eminem, and more! I rapped some Vanilla Ice, Ice Ice Baby. It's true! Paul shared his new projects! My love and admiration for Paul increased. We discussed the good - and dark - side of heavy metal ... as well as the irony about "Metal-Heads." We chatted about my children's love for music. Paul shared his wisdom on how others can find - then live - their passion. More About Paul An electrical #engineer by trade with a passion for music, skateboarding and life in general. #Campaign Builder Mad Scientist @Infusionsoft. I love a challenge! Learn more about Paul on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode Paul on Twitter Elivagar Facebook page Elivagar Demo The Power of Flow - the book I read recently ... that I love. Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious

Another international guest? YOU KNOW IT! Today's guest - #28 - is Barbara Jackson who lives in ... SWEDEN! Barbara and I connected through Twitter thanks to a Dorie Clark tweet. Dorie introduced me to past guest (#3), Tim McDonald, who has introduced me to a boatload of past Living Your Passion guests. Barbara sent me a super-detailed email about how she uncovered her passion and I just had to have her on the show! Ready to be blown away? See that picture of Barbara in this post? Standing next to her is past Living Your Passion guest (#22) Ilma Nausedaite ... who she met up with in Latvia a few days after we recorded this interview. Small world, huh? Barbara's passion: Bringing people together (to make change together) In case you missed any of the previous episodes, you can catch them here by visiting the Living Your Passion landing page. Are you ready to learn more about how Barbara brings people together (to make change together)? During this episode, Barbara ... Talked about how she thought she had "made it" when she was 23 years old (after meeting Paris Hilton, working at Canne Film Festival, and so on), only to learn she had not. Shared all of the various places - COUNTRIES - she has lived ... and why (work, education, fun). Discussed how she met her now-husband when she was 17 years old ... the same age she was when she went to college. Talked about how she shared with her parents at age 14 that she wanted to go to boarding school and show she was always "really anxious" to do something, get out there, experience the world. Talked about how "everything changed" in 2012 when she arrived in India - in the middle of the night - at an Ashram in India and ended up staying there for 5 days. Shared the moment when she realized she "had to quit." Dropped some serious knowledge. Ha! Explained what she meant by "raising her voice." <--- very very cool. Talked about "living your passion" ... "living an inspired life" ... "being in your element." Shared her wisdom More About Barbara Left my corporate career to do what I always knew I would: CREATE. DISCOVER. JOURNEY. ENGAGE. CHANGE. SHIFT. | CEO Projects For Change AB Learn more about Barbara on Twitter. Links Discussed In This Episode Barbara's website/company/business Projects for Change - Barbara's current project Enjoyed this episode? Please consider subscribing (if you haven't already). Also, what would be really awesome? If you could rate and review the show ... and use those fancy social sharing icons below to tell the world! Alternatively, you can subscribe to the RSS feed or subscribe via email (scroll to the bottom). Finally, if you know someone who bleeds passion (or maybe it’s you), please email me at djwaldow at gmail dot com. Oh, and if you have a connection to LeBron James, please let me know. I think he’d be a great person to talk to about his passion for basketball. #DeadSerious