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What if your greatest strength isn't what people see, but what they don't see? The superhero narratives we grew up watching on Saturday mornings weren't just entertaining cartoons—they were powerful metaphors for our adult lives.

Remember sitting cross-legged in front of the TV, watching X-Men or Superman save the day? These stories continue to resonate because they speak to something fundamental about the human experience: we all have unique gifts that often remain hidden beneath the surface of ordinary life. Like Clark Kent working at the Daily Planet, many of us move through professional environments where our full potential remains unseen or unacknowledged. We take directions from people who might be shocked if they knew our true capabilities and dreams.

What makes the Clark Kent/Superman analogy so compelling is that Clark was the real hero—not Superman. The restraint, patience, and wisdom required to know when to reveal your power and when to hold back is perhaps the greatest strength of all. As Maya Angelou wisely noted, "I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people." Heroism isn't about flashy demonstrations of ability; it's about consistent, intentional effort to improve conditions for yourself and others.

Your greatest superpower remains invisible to others: being authentically you. The thoughts you cultivate, the feelings you honor, and the actions you take—these shape your presence and impact. This isn't about grand, world-saving gestures. It's about bringing your unique talents into everyday situations, stepping out occasionally to demonstrate your capabilities before stepping back in. It's a dance of revelation and restraint that transforms environments through deliberate action and the courage to be seen.

Take a moment to reflect on the superheroes you connected with as a child. There's likely a meaningful connection between those characters and your own innate strengths. Purpose isn't something you find—it's something you do, consistently and intentionally. Join our community to discover how your human mess becomes the process that helps shape your purpose your way.

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Ever feel like you're walking through mud while everyone else skips effortlessly through life? You're not alone. When unexpected challenges hit—whether economic pressures, health concerns, or relationship troubles—finding solid ground seems impossible.

The secret isn't that some people don't have problems. It's that purposeful people navigate difficulties differently. They understand that purpose isn't some distant treasure to be discovered but something we actively create through daily choices. Your purpose at 25 may look nothing like your purpose at 50, and that's perfectly normal. What matters is identifying what brings you connection, peace, and satisfaction right now.

Consider the ancient fable of the oak and the reed. When fierce storms came, the mighty oak was uprooted while the humble reeds survived by bending with the wind. "You were destroyed by fighting against the storm," explained the reed, "while we survived by yielding." This wisdom applies directly to our modern challenges. Fighting circumstances beyond our control exhausts us, while learning to bend—adapting while maintaining our core values—allows us to withstand life's fiercest winds.

Like a captain navigating through a storm, your purpose becomes the destination that keeps you oriented when visibility is poor. Each day, ask yourself: "What is my purpose today? What small action can I take that aligns with my values and brings me peace?" This daily practice of purposeful living builds resilience that withstands even the most challenging circumstances.

Remember, you have a sacred birthright to happiness, peace of mind, and well-being—but that journey starts with you. Tough times don't last, but purposeful people do. Your human mess is simply part of the process of shaping your purpose, in your own unique way.

Subscribe to this podcast on your platform of choice and join our community as we navigate life's challenges together, finding purpose even in our most difficult moments.

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At the heart of achievement lies a fundamental question: is success earned through effort and determination, or simply bestowed upon the chosen few? When actor Anthony Mackie's controversial statement that "success is given, not earned" went viral, it triggered important conversations about the nature of accomplishment, especially for younger generations already navigating a complex relationship with achievement in the social media age.

This thought-provoking episode dissects what success truly means beyond the soundbites and viral quotes. Drawing wisdom from motivation pioneer Earl Nightingale, who defined success as "the progressive realization of a worthy ideal," we explore why success should be viewed as a journey rather than a destination. The path isn't about accumulating possessions or validation but about aligning with your authentic self through purposeful action toward meaningful goals.

Those with platforms and influence bear significant responsibility for the messages they amplify. When we remove context from challenging conversations, we risk fostering entitlement and passivity rather than agency and resilience. Through Ralph Emerson's timeless wisdom that excellence creates its own opportunity, we discover that true success comes from continuous self-improvement—being better than yesterday, not better than others.

Your success journey is uniquely yours. Stop comparing your chapter one to someone else's chapter twenty. Whether building a career, pursuing a passion, or developing personally, the authentic path to achievement requires vision, action, and the courage to define success on your own terms. Remember: your human mess is the process that shapes your purpose your way. Join our community as we navigate life's challenges together and discover what it truly means to live purposefully.

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Ever wondered how life's unexpected turns can reshape your purpose? Join me, Adrian Starks, as I open up about my transformative two-month hiatus and the profound changes in my journey since 2018. 

• Confronting the challenges of recent life events
• The evolution of the podcast and its purpose
• The impact of the pandemic on personal aspirations
• The physical move and its emotional implications
• Coping with the loss of my father and its significance
• The importance of vulnerability and self-expression

Inspired by legends like Les Brown and Maya Angelou, I reveal the raw truth about the winding path of self-discovery and how COVID-19 turned expectations upside down. Through the highs and lows, I've learned that making others feel valued is the true mark of success. Listen in as I share candid insights and stories that led to a new direction for "Your Purposeful Life," evolving from an entrepreneurial spotlight to a broader exploration of human nature and purpose.

Looking ahead to 2025, I'm thrilled to share plans for hosting an array of incredible guests and making empowering podcast appearances. Together, we’ll explore the depths of self-expression and growth, drawing parallels to the complexities of superheroes. Through engaging conversations, we'll unravel the beauty of humanity and the significance of embracing our emotions. With references to Socratic wisdom and "A New Earth," this episode aims to inspire you to honor your unique journey. Get ready for diverse content, from movie insights to Marvel comics and beyond, as we embark on this shared path of learning and growth in our chaotic yet beautifully human mess.

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Imagine navigating life's challenges with a sense of purpose, even when the odds seem stacked against you. That's the journey I, Adrian Starks, share in our latest episode of Your Purposeful Life Podcast, alongside the insightful Mark Paisant, host of the Relatively Normal Podcast. Together, we unpack the layers of mental health, emphasizing the need to openly discuss anxiety, stress, and depression with the same ease we discuss a common cold. Our conversation is not just about sharing struggles but also about finding empowerment through vulnerability and intentionality.

Marc and I are on a mission to normalize mental health conversations, challenging the stigma that often surrounds them. We explore personal stories that reveal the hidden battles behind seemingly successful exteriors, including my own experience of grappling with depression. Marc shares his transformative journey of overcoming negative self-talk and isolation, highlighting how small gestures, like a simple text, can make a world of difference. We also examine the growing trend of public figures sharing their mental health stories and the ripple effect it has on societal norms and personal growth.

This episode is more than just a dialogue; it's a call to action to live with intent and purpose. Whether it's aligning your actions with personal goals or finding strength through fitness and therapy, the path to a fulfilling life comes down to self-compassion and purposeful living. Marc adds to the conversation by sharing insights on shaping your own purpose, reminding us all that our personal challenges are integral to our journey. Tune in to be inspired, empowered, and to find a community that values the human experience in all its complexities.

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Episode #131

In this episode, Adrian Starks interviews Jay H. Tepley about stepping into greatness as a man and finding purpose. They discuss the challenges men face in society and the importance of rites of passage. Jay emphasizes that purpose should not be equated with career and explains the process of choosing and expressing one's purpose. They also explore the concept of the new era and the need for personal responsibility. Jay shares insights on breaking through plateaus and offers advice on living a purposeful life. The episode concludes with a discussion on Jay's book, The Light Witch Chronicles, and her lightsaber training program for mental health.


takeaways

• Men face challenges in society and often lack support and guidance.
• Purpose should not be equated with career; it is about becoming the greatest version of oneself.
• The new era requires embracing personal responsibility and creating one's own reality.
• Breaking through plateaus requires listening to the heart and seeking guidance from mentors.
• Living a purposeful life means finding inner peace and serving the world.

Guest: Jay H. Tepley

Social Media

Website: https://newerasuperhero.com/

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@newerasuperhero

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/newerasuperhero

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newerasuperhero

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhtepley/ 

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Episode #130

Summary: In this conversation Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin , a renowned poet, singer, and speaker from Ireland, discusses the power and purpose of poetry. He explains that good poetry is often descriptive, instructive, and inward-looking, inviting readers to feel and connect with their own experiences. Poetry can be therapeutic and healing, instilling patience, silence, and solidarity.  Mícheál recites a poem by W.B. Yeats and discusses the personal and honest nature of poetry. He also mentions other influential Irish poets such as Thomas Moore and Oscar Wilde. Overall, poetry offers a unique perspective and allows us to explore the invisible aspects of our existence.

Takeaways

• Good poetry is descriptive, instructive, and inward-looking, inviting readers to connect with their own experiences.
• Poetry can be therapeutic and healing, instilling patience, silence, and solidarity.
• Poetry offers a unique perspective and allows us to explore the invisible aspects of our existence.
• Irish poets such as W.B. Yeats, Thomas Moore, and Oscar Wilde have made significant contributions to the world of poetry. Authenticity and being true to oneself are essential in the creative process.
• Creativity can be a form of therapy and a way to express and process emotions.
• The Irish culture has a rich history of poetry, music, and creativity.
• Beatboxing and breathing exercises can be used as tools for self-expression and creativity.

Aha Moments

• "The act of reading a poem is an act of patience."
• "Reciting poetry from memory creates a deep reverie."
• "Ireland is synonymous with art, music, and creativity."

Guest: Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin

Social Media

Website: https://www.owenandmoley.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichealMoleyOSuilleabhain/
LinkedIn:

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Episode #129

In this conversation, Adrian Starks interviews Sara Deacon, an adulting coach who works with young adults to help them play in their passions and own their future. They discuss the misconceptions about Gen Z, including the belief that they are lazy or directionless. Sara explains that Gen Z is actually overwhelmed and anxious, but they want to make an impact and be their best selves. They also talk about the challenges Gen Z faces, such as mental health issues and the pressure to navigate a rapidly changing world. Sara provides advice for parents on how to connect with their Gen Z children, including asking open-ended questions and being curious about their interests. She also shares tips for Gen Z individuals on how to have more fun and overcome fear by changing their mindset and trying new things. Living a purposeful life, for Sara, means being connected to oneself, inspiring others, and surrounding oneself with passionate and purposeful people.

Takeaways

• Gen Z is often misunderstood and labeled as lazy or directionless, but they are actually overwhelmed and anxious, and they want to make an impact and be their best selves.
• Mental health is a major concern for Gen Z, and they often feel that the support they receive is inadequate.
• Parents can connect with their Gen Z children by asking open-ended questions, being curious about their interests, and building relationships with their friends, teachers, and coaches.
• Gen Z individuals can have more fun and overcome fear by changing their mindset, trying new things, and reframing fear as excitement.
• Living a purposeful life means being connected to oneself, inspiring others, and surrounding oneself with passionate and purposeful people.

Aha moments from Sara

"Gen Z is overwhelmed and anxious, but they want to make an impact and be their best selves."

"Mental health is a major concern for Gen Z, and they often feel that the support they receive is inadequate.

"Parents can connect with their Gen Z children by asking open-ended questions and being curious about their interests."

Resources

Guest: Sara Deacon  

Social Media

Website: https://saradeacon.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saradeaconcoach
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saradeacon
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@saradeaconcoach
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@saradeaconcoach

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In this episode, Adrian Starks interviews Julian Hayes II, an executive health and performance advisor, about his journey and his work in helping people achieve optimal health. Julian shares his shift in career path from aspiring to be a doctor to focusing on health and performance. He introduces the concept of generational health and emphasizes the importance of mindset in achieving optimal health. Julian also explains the role of epigenetics in health and how it can be influenced by lifestyle factors. He discusses the future of health, including precision medicine and the need for a shift towards preventative care.

In this conversation, Julian discusses the importance of giving aging a rebrand and recognizing it as a disease. He also talks about his work with high-stress individuals and how he helps them manage their health using new technologies. Julian emphasizes the need for baseline measurements and personalized health approaches. He highlights the impact of quality sleep on emotional intelligence and overall well-being. Julian encourages individuals to build a foundation for optimal health and balance success with health. He also discusses the power of visualization and acting as if to achieve desired outcomes. Ultimately, Julian believes that living a purposeful life involves growth and fulfillment.

Takeaways

• Aging should be recognized as a disease and given a rebrand to promote preventative measures.
• Baseline measurements, such as blood work, are essential for tracking and improving health.
• Wearables, like fitness trackers, can provide valuable insights into sleep quality and overall health.
• Quality sleep is crucial for emotional intelligence and overall well-being.
• Balancing success and health requires treating health as a system and making it a priority.
• Visualizing and acting as if you are already the person you want to be can lead to desired outcomes.
• Living a purposeful life involves growth and fulfillment.

Resources

Guest: Julian Hayes II

Social Media

Website: https://www.executivehealth.io/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julianhayesii/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thejulianhayes
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@exechealth

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Episode: 127

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is Marsha Vanwynsberghe.

Guest Marsha Vanwynsberghe is a Storytelling NLP Trainer, Speaker, Publisher & Author, 2xs Podcaster. 

Marsha is the 6-time Bestselling Author of “When She Stopped Asking Why”.  She shares her lessons as a parent who dealt with teen substance abuse that tore her family unit apart. Marsha has been published 7 times in collaborative books including “Owning Your Choices”, sharing inspiring stories of courage from women around the world. 

Through her tools, NLP certifications, programs, coaching and two podcasts, Marsha teaches the power of Radical Responsibility and Owning Your Choices in your own life. She empowers women how to own and stand on their stories, be conscious leaders and build profitable platform businesses that create massive impact. 

Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Marsha Vanwynsberghe. She will show how to move yourself forward from a difficult situation and heal through that journey with the "purpose" to share that story. Marsha demonstrates how the power of taking radical responsibility and owning your story will free you from the burdens of worry, frustrations and exhaustions of how others view or judge you. You can live your life on your terms! 

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:

• Marsha's past and upbringing.
• What it means to own your story and how to do it.
• How to find courage to change your story and create something new.
• Marsha's hard lesson that taught her radical responsibility.
• What the healing process looks like when change happens.
• How to handle criticism and judgement when sharing your story.
• Marsha's sacrifice to become a published author while sharing her story.
•  What it means to Marsha to live a purposeful life.

Resources

Guest: Marsha Vanwynsberghe

Social Media

Website: https://www.marshavanw.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marshavanwynsberghe/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marshavanw
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marshavanwcoaching
 
Marsha's podcast: https://ownyourchoicesownyourlife.libsyn.com/

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Episode: 126

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is Troy Hadeed.

Troy Hadeed is a renowned yoga teacher and the Author of My Name Is Love. 

Troy Hadeed believes the ultimate spiritual practice lives within our everyday relationships and that divinity exists in the heart of every individual. He has been practicing and teaching yoga for over fifteen years but has been questioning narratives, dissolving conditioning, and dissecting the human experience for far longer. 

Hadeed was born in Trinidad, wrote his first letter to the editor at 10, has taught yoga internationally for over 15 years, and has founded several successful businesses, including a hemp store, a waste oil recycling business and a yoga studio. He has walked coast-to-coast across central America, navigated the world on a ship, spent prolonged periods in silence, and is continuously seeking to make sense of the human experience.

Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Troy Hadeed as we dive into the underlying factors of the identity crisis across the world, the true meaning of yoga, our connection with each other and much more.. 

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:

•  Addressing the identity crisis
• Troy's life growing up in Trinidad
• His history of challenging social norms 
• Redefining our relationship with God through Yoga.
• What is Yoga, really?
• Is there a difference between Hope and Faith?
• Understanding what it is to truly LOVE
• His book, My Name Is Love.
•  What it means to Troy to live a purposeful life

Resources/Books:

My Name Is Love: We're Not ALL That Different 
By: Troy Hadeed
https://www.amazon.com/My-Name-Love-Were-Different/dp/B0CJDDKX7X/ref=sr_1_1?

Guest: Troy Hadeed

Website: https://troyhadeed.com/

Social Media

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/troyhadeed/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/troyhadeedofficial/
 YouTube:

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Episode: 125

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is Gloria Battini.

Gloria Battini is an Emotional Wellness Coach who helps women heal from emotional abuse for good and go from breakup to breakthrough. 

 
Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Gloria Battini as we dive into the topic of toxic relationships and how it deeply affects us on many levels. 


Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:
 

• Gloria's journey.
• The 2 reasons it's hard to leave a toxic manipulative relationship.
• Narcissistic abuse and its effects.
•  Narcissist's red flags.
• The DANGERS of LOVE Bombing.
• What to do once you realize you are with a narcissist.
• Tips on how to leave a toxic relationship. 
•  How to heal fully from the aftermath of emotional abuse and narcissistic abuse.
• What a purposeful life means to Gloria.

Resources/Books: 

Codependent No More: How to Stop Controlling Others and Start Caring for Yourself By Melody Beattie
https://amzn.to/48EvRxF

Guest: Gloria Battini

Website: http://gloriabattini.com

Social Media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloria-battini-1103372b/

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Episode: 124

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is Shanti Hershenson.

Shanti Hershenson is a teenage author of 22 books, spoken word artist and advocate for anti-bullying in schools.

 
Join us on this episode as I speak with guest and teenager Shanti Hershenson, who decided that enough was enough and wrote "You Won't Know Her Name", a novel-told-in-poetry about bullying in middle school. From writing over 22 books with 3 being published, Shanti is not only and advocate for anti-bullying but an inspiration to teenagers to get support and follow their passion for writing and expression. She also provides some cool tips on how to promote your books on tik tok.


Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday April May 13th:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:
 

• The pressure of being bullied in school.
• WHAT happed when Shanti created the poem, Needles and Thorns.
• Advice for other teenagers who have been bullied.
• The School Systems and how they can improve and gain trust back from students who are being bullied.
• COVID and its inspiration for writing for Shanti.
•  How to balance school and writing. 
• Shant's strategy for writing over 22 books.
• What a purposeful life means to Shanti.

Resources

Book: You Won't  Know Her Name by Shanti Hershenson
https://www.amazon.com/You-Wont-Know-Her-Name-ebook/dp/B09B6HL4G1/?&_encoding=UTF8&tag=yourpurpose05-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=7435571536df69497b1795c0d3f8ef1a&camp=1789&creative=9325

Guest: Shanti Hershenson

Website: https://www.shantihershenson.com/

Social Media

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shantiwhowrites
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shantihershenson/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShantiHersh

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Episode: 123

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is Iris Grimm.

Iris Grimm is a leadership coach, creator of Dog Gone Leadership, and advocate for dogs in shelters. 

Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Iris Grimm as she shares her mission of reducing the number of dogs in animal shelters. With this purpose she gives surprising benefits to WHY dogs are not just good for our personal life but also for our career in leadership and team building.

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday April 29th:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:

• Leadership skills we could be learning from dogs.
• How dogs improve our wellbeing and stress levels.
• Shocking facts about the #of dogs in shelters and those that are being euthanized.
• The reason for Dog Gone Leadership
•  How the dog-gone leadership approach is applied in companies. 
• Action step to help with Iris's mission and purpose
• The Purposeful Life and what it means for Iris 

Resources

Guest: Iris Grimm

Tedx Talk: How dogs make us better leaders
https://streaklinks.com/Bexy_OC2dgMiv7ArgAjAgAhl/https%3A%2F%2Fyoutu.be%2F5FTh_d9z5jM


Website: https://irisgrimm.com/

Social Media

Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaiAuilXt2Nsi0b-sow7PMA
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iris_grimm_doggone_leadership/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IrisGrimmDogGoneLeadership/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irisgrimm/

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Episode: 122

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is Asher Laub.

Asher Laub is an Electric Violinist, Composer, Producer and Live Performer

 
Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Asher Laub as he talks about pushing the boundaries of conventional music as an artist and WHY it is necessary. Asher provides tips on how to not only survive but thrive as an aspiring musician in a world where you are forced into a box. He certainly walks his talk making his way from wheelchair to dancing violinist.

Your challenges are your blessings. -Asher Laub

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday April 1st:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:
 

• Asher’s background in music(childhood)
• Adrenal Insufficiency Problem
• Wheel Chair Bound
• From wheel chair to reshaped purpose(dancing violinist)
• Challenges faced in his music career
• Advice for aspiring musicians and entrepreneurs 
• The Purposeful Life and what it means for Asher
• Asher plays one of his composed pieces.

Resources

Guest: Asher Laub

Website: https://www.asherlaub.com/

Social Media

Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/c/Asherofficialmusic
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@asherlaub
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asherlaub/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/asherlaubmusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/asherlaub

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Episode: 121

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is Celeste Frazier.

Celeste is an inspirational speaker, author, teacher, counselor and podcaster.
 
Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Celeste Frazier as she talks about the need for spiritual growth and how it can foster creativity. Celeste knows all about spirituality sharing the stages with well-known teachers such as Michael Beckwith.

We are moving into ONENESS and to hold onto your PAST, will only make you EXTINCT. -Celeste Frazier
 
Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday March 18th:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:
 

• The PROBLEM people have with Religious Science. 
• Celeste's journey to becoming a minister in religious science.
• The challenge of connecting with yourself on a spiritual level.
• What happens when we connect on that spiritual level.
• Sharing the stage with Michael Beckwith.
• We discuss Celeste's article: Spiritual Magnificence.
• How does one move into their heart?
• Trivia questions: What movies have we seen Celeste in?
• Where we are headed as a human collectiveness?
• The Purposeful Life and what it means for Celeste.

Resources

Book suggestions from Celeste: Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler

Guest: Celeste Frazier

Website: https://celestefrazier.com/

Social Media

Podcast: Mystic Magic hosted by Celeste Frazier

Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCokxcY8l_PgPDQ92KMFr3iw
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@celestea.frazier
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celesteafrazier/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/celeste.frazier/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/revcf

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Episode: 120

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is founder of Photoshop Training Channel on YouTube (1.9 + million subscribers), Graphic/Web designer, Speaker and Educator Specializing in Adobe Photoshop, Jesus Ramirez.
 
Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Jesus Ramirez as he shows surefire ways to stand out as a YouTube/Creator. I would also like to add that he continued on with his business while suffering from a stroke. This episode sure fired me up and it will do the same for you!
 
 Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday March 11th:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:
 

• Jesus' passion for creating.
• Suffering a stroke while playing soccer and how it changed his life.
• The YouTube business that supported him financially through recovery.
•  Why lauching a Youtube platform could be just the thing you need to up your game.
• How to effectively grow your brand by starting a YouTube Channel.
• How to get a million subscribers on YouTube once you are established.
• Adobe tips.
• What living a purposeful life means to Jesus after surviving his stroke.     

 
 Bio:
 
Jesús Ramirez is a graphic artist and educator specializing in Adobe Photoshop. 

His clients include Adobe, Microsoft, Motorola, and Conde Nast. Most recently, Jesús has worked as a Finisher in the Hollywood industry, creating film and TV posters for HBO, HULU, Netflix, and CBS.

Jesús also runs the Photoshop Training Channel, one of the world's most popular Photoshop YouTube channels, with over 1.9 million subscribers.

Over the last seven years, Jesús has been a speaker at over 30 conferences worldwide. Most notably, Adobe MAX, Creative Pro, Photoshop World, PhotoPlus, and WPPI.

Resources
 

Guest: Jesus Ramirez


Website: https://photoshoptrainingchannel.com/about-us/

Social Media

Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/@PhotoshopTrainingChannel
TikTok: Jesús Ramirez (@jrfromptc) | TikTok
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photoshoptrainingchannel/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesusramirez9/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhotoshopTrainingChannel

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Episode: 119

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is spiritual coach, speaker, author, TV Host and Founder of Be Love Principles, Diane Haworth.

Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Diane Haworth, as she explains why LOVE is powerful, creative and expansive for our businesses and personal lives. She debunks the whole notion of it being WOO WOO! Diane also shares her journey and what happened when she brought in the power of LOVE within her purpose.


Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday March 4th:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:

• Diane's path to love and why she chose it.
• The perspective of WHY we are being called to use LOVE more.
• How Diane came up with her book title, "How to choose Love when you just want to slap somebody".
• The benefits of LOVE for the brain and body.
• Why it is not WOO WOO and considered an advantage in business.
• The neuroscience and high-performance habits that are impacted by love and our spiritual truths.
• Diane's meaning of purpose.

Bio:

Diane is a spiritual coach, speaker and author. 

Her first book, "How to Choose Love When You Just Want to Slap Somebody" was published August 2014. Her TV show, "Heart-Centered Success with Diane L Haworth" debuted in January 2018 in the Washington, DC area with episodes available on YouTube. Diane is currently a host on the AWAKE TV Network and the Founder of Be Love Principles

Resources

Guest: Diane Haworth


Website: https://morefromdiane.com

Social Media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianehaworth/
Youtube:     https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBsS9FMORB1bqkUUYsaV7hA  

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Episode 118

Join Adrian Starks on this special episode as he reflects on the last 3 guests, Carmen Micsa, Don Colliver and Michelle Starr and what he learned from each guest.

Each month I will have a reflection episode that will be based upon the takeaways and lessons that I learned from the guests of that month. When we have knowledge, it is just knowledge but when we can deeply reflect on the knowledge we have attained and use it purposefully in our lives to create constructive change, it then becomes power.

I had special moments with Carmen, Don and Michelle that connected with me in different ways. On this episode I will share that with you.

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday February 11th:
https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

🛎⭐️Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to join our YPL community for tips, guest interviews, takeaways and more. We can’t wait to help you shape your purpose, your way! 👏⭐️⭐️

Show Notes and Key takeaways  on this episode:

• Why I chose to have reflection episodes
• What I learned from episode 115 with guest Carmen Micsa
• What I learned from episode 116 with guest Don Colliver 
• What I learned from episode 117 with guest Michelle Starr
• Summary of all three guest and final takeaway 

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Episode: 117

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is author, speaker, trainer and diversity equity and inclusion expert for women of color, Michelle Starr.


Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Michelle Starr, who shares her journey and why she decided it was necessary to build BE BROWN BRAVE platform for both workplace culture and outside of it.

Michelle experienced many things in her work fields but you would never believe what happened to her when a top leader treated her a certain way.


Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday January 28th:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:

• Michelle's view on the current problem with the employment system in America
• How she came up with BE BROWN BRAVE
• The mission of Michelle's platform
• The defining moment when she decided that "enough was enough"
• How business leaders can benefit from her teachings
• Ways to show inclusion for women of color
• Who can BE BROWN BRAVE
• Why Michelle chose this as her PURPOSE

Bio:

Michelle is an experienced corporate professional with 25 years' experience. She has a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology. She is a certified executive coach, author, speaker, and diversity business trainer helping Chief Functional Officers build cohesive teams, lower attrition, and build revenue by interweaving inclusion in their organizations.

Resources

Guest: Michelle Starr


Website: https://www.bebrownbrave.com

Social Media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-s-48287018/
Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rLIhdJrJ24

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Episode: 116

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is Former Blue Man and Professional Clown turned Communication Trainer and Pro Speaker, Don Colliver.

Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Don Colliver who shares his journey of becoming a blue man and professional clown and then reshaping his purpose to now being a communication trainer and pro speaker helping companies such as Google. 

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday January 21st:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

🛎⭐️Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to join our YPL community for tips, guest interviews, takeaways and more. We can’t wait to help you shape your purpose, your way! 👏⭐️⭐️


Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:

• Don's journey from former blue man and professional clown 
• Life turning moment for Don that reshaped his purpose. 
• Challenges he faced in the profession of being a clown 
• How the clown presence relates to public speaking
• Don's take on WHY people have such a fear for public speaking and HOW to change that fear 
• Recommendations for nervous speakers
• How to add a little humor to better engage the audience 
• Practicing presentations: how much is enough? 

Bio:

Don Colliver teaches popular public speaking courses internally at Google and around the world; leads improv, clown, and sketch comedy classes for the Berkeley Rep School of Theatre; and speaks professionally for Fortune 500 companies including Adobe, Cisco, and Medtronic. Don has performed with the Blue Man Group, toured internationally as a theatrical Clown for contemporary circus Spiegelworld, and is listed in the Cirque du Soleil performer database.

Don’s mission is to help every communicator profoundly impact their audience through the power of authenticity, listening, and play: the Secrets of Clown!

He recently released a #1 Bestselling Amazon book entitled "Wink: Transforming Public Speaking with Clown Presence" to help anxious speakers and organizational teams everywhere connect more deeply when they communicate.

Resources

Guest: Don Colliver

Guest reference: Prattfall effect study done in 1966 by social psychologist Elliot Aronson

Free exercise/gift from Don: https://www.doncolliver.com/engage

Website: https://www.doncolliver.com/wink-public-speaking

Social Media

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doncolliver/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/doncolliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/doncolliver
Youtube:

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Episode: 115

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is creative writer, poet, avid marathon runner, Renaissance Woman, and CEO/Broker of Dynamic Real Estate, Carmen Micsa.

Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Carmen Micsa who is known by many as the Renaissance Woman. Carmen shares her journey and why she lives up to this name. Growing up in Romania was not an easy journey as she learned firsthand from her father during the Communism movement an important lesson that helped her see her world and opportunities much differently that everyone else.

Carmen reframed her purpose and reinvented herself in the process leading to new experiences.

Side note: Carmen and I share something in common and we had a deep conversation about this shared specialty.

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday January 7th:  https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks


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Show Notes and Key takeaways on this episode:

• Carmem's childhood and growing up in Communism (lessons learned)
• What lead into her being called the Renaissance Woman
• The purpose of her book, "Change Your Grip On Life Through Tennis"
• Why is it important to not have a fixed mindset and to reinvent ourselves 
• Ways to reinvent ourselves
• What it means to live a serendipitous life (Carmen talks Lao Tsu)
• Marathon running and her next venture in March and why this is a "special one"
• Carmen's life's purpose

Bio:

Carmen Micsa is a creative writer, poet, avid marathon runner, Renaissance Woman, and CEO/Broker of Dynamic Real Estate.  She is also the host of Seeds of Sunshine Podcast. 

Resources

Guest: Carmen Micsa


Website: https://dynamicsacramentohomes.com/

https://carmenmicsabooks.com


Social Media

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/carmenmicsa
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/cmicsa
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CMicsa

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Episode 114

Join Adrian Starks on this special episode as he reflects on the last 3 episodes from the 2022 season and what he learned from each guest.

Each month I will have a reflection episode that will be based upon the takeaways and lessons that I learned from the guests of that month. When we have knowledge, it is just knowledge but when we can deeply reflect on the knowledge we have attained and use it purposefully in our lives to create constructive change, it then becomes power.

I had special moments with Cathy, Lesley and Kevin that connected with me in different ways. On this episode I will share that with you.

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday December 31st:
https://youtube.com/@adrianstarks

🛎⭐️Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to join our YPL community for tips, guest interviews, takeaways and more. We can’t wait to help you shape your purpose, your way! 👏⭐️⭐️

Show Notes and Key takeaways  on this episode:

• Why KNOWLEDGE is just KNOWLEDGE until we.....
• What I learned from episode 111 with guest Cathy Nesbit
• What I learned from episode 112 with guest Lesley Logan 
• What I learned from episode 113 with guest Kevin McShan
• A lesson learned from my trip to Italy and why it connects to Kevin's episode 
• Summary of all three guest and what to expect for 2023 season

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Episode: 113

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is multimedia journalist, motivational speaker and advocate and inclusion expert for people with disabilities, Kevin McShan.

Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Kevin McShan who has spastic quadriplegia and shares his journey. Both he and his twin had it but Kevin unlike his twin was not able to grow out of it. Instead Kevin learned to grow forward with it  and that didn’t stop him from championing for the disabled and moving the needle of progress for inclusion.


"WE MUST MOVE THE NEEDLE OF PROUGRESS FORWARD"- Kevin McShan

Side note: Kevin and I chatted about some football favorites towards the end of our conversation, and it was full of laughs!

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday December 17th:
https://youtu.be/UIEj9ZxwjFk

🛎⭐️Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to join our YPL community for tips, guest interviews, takeaways and more. We can’t wait to help you shape your purpose, your way! 👏⭐️⭐️


Show Notes and Key takeaways  on this episode:

• Kevin's childhood and how he dealt with his disability, spastic quadriplegia
• How he was able to thrive while living with his disability
• Barriers and how Kevin did not let them define his limitations
•  Achieving Equity and Equality for individuals with disabilities in the workplace. Where do we start? 
• The benefits that are being missed by overlooking the disabled in workplace culture 
• Kevin’s favorite football team 
• Kevin’s meaning of living a purposeful life 

Bio:

Kevin is a disability and inclusion expert, sports Reporter and has plenty of lived experiences which anyone would find compelling. He was born with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy; however, he has refused to allow that disability to define his limitations and how he lives his life. He currently hosts Let's Have This Conversation. 

Resources

Guest: Kevin McShan


Website: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8O46hFoibuN-doUrAfOvnw


Social Media

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mcshan81509/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.mcshan1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-mcshan-1586028a/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/McShan819

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Episode: 112

Today's guest on Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks is certified Pilates teacher, breathwork, habits and mindset coach Lesley Logan.


Join us on this episode as I speak with guest Lesley Logan going back to her humble and what she calls "boring" beginnings in Lodi California to creating her purpose through the discovery of Pilates taking her to LA and across the world.

Lesley holds nothing back and shares the problems she has faced and seen her clients face through the mask of perfectionism. She simply says, "Perfectionism is boring and that she believes it keeps us away from our purpose". Lesley provides not only a super enticing and fun conversation, she also provides tips on how to ditch perfectionism and how to use Pilates in our lives to improve our mental wellbeing.

"PILATES IS FOR ANYONE BECAUSE IT CAN MEET YOU WHERE YOU ARE"- Lesley Logan

Side note: Lesley and I had an immediate connection as we wore nearly the same exact colored hoody to the interview.

Watch the full video of this episode on our YouTube channel available Saturday December10th:
https://youtu.be/UIEj9ZxwjFk

🛎⭐️Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to join our YPL community for tips, guest interviews, takeaways and more. We can’t wait to help you shape your purpose, your way! 👏⭐️⭐️


Show Notes and Key takeaways  on this episode:

• Lesley's journey from Lodi California to LA (She did not fit in and wondered why)
• How she discovered Pilates and her first rejections to its importance
• She shares the difference between Pilates and Yoga
• Fitness 101: What happens when we are too imbalanced with strength training and stretching
• The benefits of Pilates
• Self-Care isnt Selfish 
• What happens when we honor our time and energy 
• Some of Lesley's favorite places she has visited while teaching Pilates
• Lesley's take on living a Purposeful Life 

Bio:

Lesley Logan, a certified Pilates teacher, habits and mindset coach, is the founder of OnlinePilatesClasses.com, Profitable Pilates and host of Be It Till You See It podcast. Teaching Pilates since 2008, she has run multiple studios, trained hundreds of people to become teachers themselves and has taught thousands of students around the world. When not teaching, coaching teachers or recording she is leading retreats around the world. 

Resources

Guest: Lesley Logan


Website: https://lesleylogan.co/

FREE PILATES ONLINE WORKOUT: https://offers.onlinepilatesclasses.com/lp-free-class

Social Media

Instagram:  https://www.instagram

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