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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 092 – Your Career Change Action Plan

When planning a career change, people have to deal with their fears. The best way to face your fear, is to make a plan by answering these questions:

What have you got to lose?
What have you got to gain?
What’s stopping you from making the change?

If you want to change your career or shift to a vocation that’s a better fit, put together an action plan.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 082 – Live Spontaneously

I visited my folks who live a couple of hours away. It was a surprise visit. Sometimes, I have a need to do things spontaneously. Otherwise, the structure will drive me crazy.

Do you have any spontaneity in your life? Do something spontaneous today.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 091 – Quit Your Job

Our career coaching client wrapped up the process with us. He did a good job going through the entire process. After 24 years with a company, he decided to leave because the company has changed so much, that it no longer fit his passions.

Are you thinking about quitting your job? Put a plan together with it. Don’t stay locked up in your current situation.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 089 – Find a New Career Soon

Our Online Career Coach will be available on Sep 1, 2010. We’re releasing a Gold and a Platinum version. You can purchase these online at https://leadershipequip.com/?store&catid=1.

Understand yourself better and find a new career that’s a better fit.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 081 – God Uses You in Ways You Don’t Anticipate

We conducted an English-training camp in Ukraine back in 2004 and 2005. Foreigners came to Ukraine to help in English Training camps. The camps have been ongoing yearly for seven years now.

My friends Bill and Terry have been to Ukraine 13 times each. They just love interacting with students.

It’s an enriching experience for both of them and for the students as well.

Do you know that sometimes God is going to use you in ways that you’d never anticipate? Get out there and keep trusing God day-to-day. Don’t be surprised if he uses you in miraculous ways.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 090 – Meaningful Work Interview: Ben Robinson

Ben Robinson is from Kyiv, Ukraine. He’s a friend from several years back, when I worked in Ukraine, teaching English for a Christian group. Ben is also a partner and will be working with us with some coaching clients as well.

Ben has lived in Ukraine for almost 15 years. He grew up in the United Kingdom. But he was born in Spain when his parents went on a holiday. He is now married to a Ukrainian, Tanya. They have 3 children, two with a UK passport, and one with a Ukraine passport.

He initially came to Ukraine as a volunteer staff to teach English. After 2 years, he joined an organization called the Center for Leadership Development. It was an organization that works with young university graduates.

Currently, he works as a co-pastor of a Church in Kyiv which works with a lot of graduates, from creative backgrounds. He also continues to teach as a freelance trainer and coach. Finally, he does a little bit of photography work.

He says, “Life, in its fullness and the dynamics of life, and the questions people face, are similar, wherever we are in the world, People want to have a way to make a difference. People need to know what their talents are, people need to find a place to use their talents.”

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What's Your 'Type'?

They were all different…very different. But…that’s a good thing.

It was last week in Nebraska that I met these folks. They own a medium-sized agricultural business. And…they are very successful….

But – there are times when they irritate each other. The detailed folks get frustrated with one of the bosses who relate to them in general terms. The flexible, spontaneous team members get tired of feeling restricted to a tight structure. Sometimes, the Introverts don’t say anything when they are frustrated…they just let the Extroverts talk.

So how do the owners of this business make it all work?

Well….it’s a process. It’s a process that’s sometimes difficult…but it’s worth it in the end.

And…we are helping them in this process.

We did a first in a series of team-building workshops for this client. First, we took them through the basics of personality and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator. At the end of the first session, they learned their personality ‘type’.

Later, we’ll take them through more workshops to help apply the personality principles of personality and really take to heart what the strengths of their own personality type are.

Then, we’ll help them recognize and appreciate the strengths of those that are different than they are.

Will it be difficult? Yes

But…it will be worth it.

Interested in our team-building workshops? Give us a call at 785-979-0381 or email me at brent@leadershipequip.com

Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 080 – The Value of Relationship Over Time

We have a special guest on this podcast. His name is Bill. We met in Virginia Tech in 1996.

We had a Coming to America camp which started in 2004. It’s being held twice a year now. The camps focus on Ukraine college students. Aside from teaching English, there’s also a faith component and relationships. Most people that come to the camp are still Americans, but there there are also a number of Australians, Brits, and Canadians.

Bill is also drawn to Ukraine because meeting the people, students, and learning about their culture and their history, he just fell in love with Ukraine.

Tune in to hear more about his relationship with Ukraine and his love for crossing cultures.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 079 – Cross Cultural Adventures with Terry

Terry is from California. I met him in Ukraine in 2003. We both love Eastern Europe and Ukraine. He has been to Ukraine more than 10 times.

Terry loves travelling because when he was young, he read a lot. He read about different places and developed the need to see these first-hand. His grandparents from his mom’s side, all came from the Netherlands. His dad’s ancestors originally came from England.

He also studied Japanese when he was in college and this made him want to see Japan.

Tune in to hear more about his cross cultural adventures.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 088 – Taking Risks In Your Career

I posted a blog post on 48Days.net. Dan Miller, the owner of 48Days.net highlighted this post and it generated some discussion.

Have you taken a big risk in your career? As you’re reading this, I’m in Ukraine. A couple of years back I made a risk of going to Ukraine. It was a big risk that has resulted in huge dividends.

What risks have you taken today? Are you on the edge of making a change in your career?

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 086 – Have You Lost Your Job Recently?

Unemployment is an issue that has become very real to a lot of people around the world. Current unemployment numbers is at its highest for many years. Currently 10% of Americans are unemployed.

On Sat, Aug 21, you’ll hear my interview with Daniel Johnson, Jr., who’s a personal friend of mine. He too has become unemployed a few weeks back. You’ll learn how he has bounced back from being unemployed.

Have you found yourself in a place where you’ve been unemployed. Stay sane and keep a positive outlook.

1. Use it as a time to keep your skills current. Volunteer to tutor kids at a local school district. Volunteer to do a little computer work at a local library or somewhere.

2. Take some time to develop some new skills. Do the things you’ve been wanting to do for a while. If you go online, there’s all kinds of tutorials to do things.

3. Use your time off to find work that would be a better fit. Go to ONet.org. Do a thorough search there on the types of jobs that might fit your personality.

If you’re currently unemployed, hang in there. If we can do anything for you, give us a call on the feedback line at 888-499-3689 or drop me an email at Brent@LeadershipEquip.com

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 087 – Meaningful Work Interview: Daniel Johnson Jr.

Daniel works for ThinkWare. They perform payroll processing solutions for other companies. They’ve brought me on to help with their Microsoft Dynamics. He was previously unemployed for about 9 months. His former boss, who is now working for Thinkware, recommended that he apply there based on his skills.

He enjoys working for Thinkware because of the great, and relaxed work environment. The new company is also much nearer than the last one so commute time is not too long. The company is also lenient in terms of dress code. They don’t need to dress up in a suit or a tie.

During tough times, what made him move forward was his perseverance. It’s something that he values personally.

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I’d been living in Eastern Europe only a couple of months. I’d moved to that part of the world to change careers. I was working as an English Teacher in Ukraine, but I worked part-time as an agriculture consultant in Poland.

I’d been studying Russian and I knew the basics. But…she was speaking to me in Polish. How the heck was I supposed to respond?

‘She’ was a German Grandmother. She couldn’t see well enough to see the bus schedule…and she was asking me for help.

So here I am…literally a ‘baby’ in the culture. I knew a few phrases. I felt helpless enough in the culture…no less having to help someone else.

There are times when I want to help someone…but just don’t feel capable of doing it. And tonight…was one of those nights. Too many times, I have said ‘Sorry, I don’t speak the language’, and have moved on.

But something was different that night. I really felt like I needed to try…I needed to reach out to this lady.

I switched from English to Russian and sure enough…she spoke some Russian. I was able to communicate which bus she needed in broken Russian. Just so happens…it was the same bus that I was traveling on, and she was getting off at the same exact spot that I was.

On the bus ride, she told me a bit of her story. I couldn’t understand everything…but I understood parts. She was on her way to visit her family who lived here in Warsaw. She told me how something had happened inside her head, and she couldn’t think or see very well now. She told me quite a bit of her story. And…it was intriguing. So intriguing that I was captured by it the entire to the bus stop.

Have you ever had the opportunity to help someone in a tough spot? Maybe it’s a colleague. Maybe it’s your boss. Maybe it’s someone you don’t even like.

Take the risk…step out in faith and help someone…even if you don’t feel ‘qualified’ to do so. You’ll be surprised at just how gratifying it can be.

Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 078 – Loving Different Cultures

My wife and I teach English in downtime Kansas City. There’s a group of multinationals that come to this place called Mission Adalante. We just completed the summer semester there.

You’re going to hear more and more about crossing cultures on this podcast. We’re also going to start a new podcast in the months ahead. The new podcast will have something to do with crossing cultures and travel.

What do you do to experience the richness of crossing cultures? Do you know folks from another country? We’d love to have your feedback on that. We’d love to hear how that experience was for you.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 077 – The Story of Our Engagement

My wife Stephanie and I recently celebrated our 5th year wedding anniversary. Steph and I met in 1992 in a Bible Study at K-State. 13 years later, I proposed to her.

I had to go explore geographically, spiritually, and emotionally before I realized what I needed.

Steph visited me in Ukraine as a buddy. She came during the revolution. It was a revolution in Ukraine, but it was also a revolution in my heart. After 13 years. I realized we were a good match.

I realized how much I loved her, and recognized how much she loved me.

So I snuck back to the US and worked with her roommates, boss, and friends to plan the engagement.

She was scheduled to have lunch with her boss but, instead I showed up with roses and with a note from her boss asking her to take the week off.

That night, we drove by Webber Hall at K-State, where we first met in room 121. I told her “Let’s pop in to Webber Hall. There’s some kind of conference going on.”

That’s where I went down on one knee and I proposed to her. I read her a little poem and I proposed. She said “Yes.” Then we went upstairs to a gourmet dinner that her friends have set up. Then, we had our engagement dinner there. Basically, I turned her world upside down in a matter of a few hours.

I went back to Ukraine to finish up and moved back to the US and we got married soon after.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 085 – Helping Others In Your Career

When I lived in Eastern Europe a couple of years ago, I would go to Poland from time to time. A Polish woman asked for my help. But I felt somewhat helpless because I only knew a couple of words in Polish since I was studying Russian.

Armed with basic Russian, we were able to communicate in Russian. To make a long story short, she wanted to make sure she doesn’t miss her bus stop because she had poor eyesight.

As it turned out, we were getting off at the same bus stop.

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you can help somebody but passed it by? Have you had the opportunity to help somebody in their career, in their vocation.

For me, the big benefit in running this business is helping people in practical ways. We’ve been coaching folks for two years now.

This is the reason we’re coming out with the Online Career Coach. We’ve had more clients than we could handle one on one, so we came up with this combination approach of online resources and individual interaction with us. This is a practical way to help people and provide something that’s more economical.

Go out there in faith and go help somebody today, with something practical.

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Choose your business partners wisely!

Ever think of starting your own business with partners?

A word of caution: be careful in who you choose

In our career coaching and web-product business, we connect with…and serve…a certain type of people. People who want to make a change in their careers…but they aren’t sure how.

My friend and business partner Lewis Pulley has a real heart for people. He’s empathetic and he really ‘connects’ well with people with his wit, his knowledge, and his sense of humor. He’s been an ideal partner for us for the last 2 years.

The thing is…I’ve known him about 12 years now. I knew what his values are. I knew what his experience was. I knew what he thought was ethical or unethical.

Are you considering choosing a business partner?

If so…choose wisely!!!

Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 076 – Do You Have Friends From Different Cultures?

For me, a life of richness and fullness has got to include interacting with people from different cultures. I feel that God has given me a desire to love people and to engage with these people who are from different cultures and countries. I’ve lived in Ukraine and England and have travelled to about 31 different countries. So I know what it’s like to be a stranger in a foreign land.

There’s a lot of value to crossing cultures. Having friends from different cultures will add a dimension to your life that you didn’t know is possible. Wherever you may be, reach out to people living in your country that are not from there. It’ll be a life-transforming experience for you and for them as well.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 084 – Meaningful Work Interview: Davy George

Davy George is the World’s Greatest Handyman.

We’ve had him do small jobs around our house. Then slightly bigger jobs. Now…we are planning to have him finish our basement in 2011.

Why do we like him so well?

He’s passionate. He’s good at what he does. And…he’s got the best relational skills of any handyman we’ve ever met.

Tune in to hear about the World’s Greatest Handyman…and learn why is business is exploding.

Contact Davy George at:
E-mail – niketodoit@yahoo.com
Phone 913-530-2554

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 083 – Feedback From Folks

This is another feedback episode. We’ve received some feedback from folks on our voicemail feedback line at 888-499-3689. This line runs 24/7 directly to voicemail.

We also highlight and thank folks who left feedback on our Facebook Fan Page at www.facebook.com/pursuingmeaningfulwork.

We also received feedback from our Pursuing Your Calling group at RansomedHeart.net and from twitter.com/meaningfulwork.

We encourage you to join our Pursuing Your Calling group, on RansomedHeart.net. There are some good discussions going on here.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 075 – Feeling Excited And Nervous At The Same Time

I’m excited to lauch a new product on the 1st of September. It’s called the Online Career Coach. I asked feedback from folks at Free Agent Academy regarding this product.

Feedback were mixed. Some folks thought the product was great while other folks thought that the product wasn’t really good. So I’m feeling excited and nervous at the same time.

I want to be more focused on really serving people. I really want to reach out to folks, folks who want to make a better life for themselves but who are still in the process of figuring out how. I envision this new product to doing exactly that.

I move forward the best way I know that God is leading me. And I’ll patiently wait and watch out for the results.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 074 – Are You Letting Your Fears Dictate Your Life?

I’ve met a great guy who’s genuine interest and passion for people makes him a great conselor and coach. As much as he wants to start his own business of coaching people, he has fears about taking that leap of faith and going for it.

Like him, are you overlooking the rewards of what could be because you’re moving towards safety and letting your fears of what might go wrong prevent you from moving forward?

Are you staying safe or are you getting out there and trying things where there could be rewards?

Finally, are you trusting God to guide you or are you trusting your circumstances?

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 082 – Values

In this podcast we explore the meaning of Values in our lives.

I had a job where my value of honesty and integrity was violated by what my boss asked me to do. I really felt then, as I do now, that my values are God-given, so if I am violating those, I’m going against how God has wired me. In the end, there was nowhere to go with that company. Although I loved the job and I absolutely loved travelling, it was a dealbreaker because one of my core values – honesty and integrity was being violated.

Have you ever been in a situation like that or are you in a situation like that now? Are you looking for something different than what you have? Are you afraid to leave that situation because you may find yourself unemployed longer than you can afford or want to?

We may not talk about spirituality on this feed, but there is a spiritual component to how we are wired, how we are made and how that plays out in the workplace.

If you are doing things that honor God and honor how you are wired and how he’s made you, then that’s going to bring good fruit in the end. Those are hard situations to be in but those are situations that I love because when you put yourself in a situation where there’s nothing to do but to trust God, that’s where he loves to come through for you.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 073 – Short Recording With My Friend Mario

We’ve been helping Latinos learn English. Some friends of ours have a ministry that teach English in downtown Kansas city.

One of the folks we teach English is Mario and his wife. A few days ago, he was here with his wife and two daughters.

This podcast is a short recording between me and Mario. Mario is speaking in his second language. He is in his beginning English class.

I hope you enjoy the interaction.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 081 – Meaningful Work Interview: Tony Elam

Tony is a financial coach from Orlando Florida. He helps stop people from being broke or recover from bankruptcy. He filed for bankruptcy once when he was in his early twenties. He nearly filed again when he was 27.

He went on a journey of financial learning and got to a point when he got on his feet and started helping people. He discovered that he enjoyed this so much.

Vision and experience are the main tools he use to help others get out of debt.

You can contact him via:

Website: FindingForward.com
Blog: FindingForwardMotion.com
Email: Tony@FindingForward.com

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 080 – Workshop in Bulgaria

We’re going to conduct a Workshop in Bulgaria, near Sophia, on September. The workshop will help students, graduates, and young professionals learn more about themselves and their vocations.

What are you doing to pursue work with meaning, work with purpose? Are you stuck with a dead-end job?’ If so, it’s time to make a change…

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 072 – Goofing Around In Spanish With My Friends Chris And Mario

In this podcast, you’ll hear my friends Chris and Mario goofing around in Spanish.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 071 – Are You Living A Life That’s Rich And Full?

Compared in the US, people in Ukraine have less, in terms of material possessions. But, in spite of this, I love Ukraine because I saw a lot of happy people there, people who are living rich and full lives.

For instance, my friend Peter from Ukraine is one of the coolest persons I’ve met. He just loves people for who they are. He was part of me and my wife’s story. He may have less possessions compared to someone living here in the US, but he is rich in his love for life and in his love for people. He loves people genuinely for who they are. And he lives his life to the fullest.

Peter is one of these long-term, life-time friends, I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Are you living a life that’s rich and full? Or are you settling for cheap substitutes such as prestige or money?

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 079 – Online Career Coach

Our Online Career Coach will be launched on Sep 1, 2010. This is to provide a more affordable option for clients to avail of our coaching expertise online.

You can also hear a voicemail feedback left by Wayne Henderson. We featured him recently on our meaningful work interview series. He left a feedback about our audio book, Finding Your True North, A Quick Start Guide To Finding The Career That You Love.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 070 – Staying Connected With God

I just came home from Ukraine. In the weeks ahead, you will see a lot of my experiences in blog posts and in podcasts.

Right now, I’m decompressing. I always rest after a trip by spending 1 or 2 days to reflect and rest.

Real strength comes from spending quality time with God. God meets me wherever I’m at. If I’m seeking him, he fills me with hope.

Whether I’m in Kyiv, a village in Turkey, a hotel room in Hong Kong, God meets me day to day. That is what real life is to me.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 078 – Meaningful Work Interview: Wayne Henderson

Wayne Henderson is the owner of MediaVoiceovers.com. He did the voiceover intro and outro segment for our Undercover Boss podcast. He is a voice actor, a podcast producer, and a consultant.

Wayne used to work in radio, but decided to be self-employed as a voice actor, working right from his home studio. He records voiceovers for commercials.

He admits that the most difficult part in his business is the competition. Since voice acting is part of “showbusiness,” competition is fierce.

Tune in to the podcast to hear more of his story of how he’s pursuing meaningful work as a self-employed Voice actor and podcast producer.

You can visit his website here: http://mediavoiceovers.com/

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 077 – Focus On Growing Our Business Internationally

As I’ve mentioned on a previous podcast, we’ll be focusing more on folks who are coming here in the US to find a job or to start a business. We’re also going to work with people from other countries, who are wrestling with what it means to understand themselves – how they’re wired, what gifts they have, what weaknesses or strengths they have – and to see what vocation, and what jobs might be a good fit for them.

We have two partners in Ukraine, Anya and Ben, and we have three coaches here in the US. Together, we can help a client from another part of the world, like China, find meaningful work.

In the weeks ahead, you’re going to see more growth and change in Leadership Equip. Check out our Web site at PursuingMeaningfulWork.com for these changes.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 069 – ‘Saint’ Simon Peter in Kyiv

This podcast was recorded on the street in Kyiv. Just hanging out…goofing around with my friends. You’ll hear our little chat about our friend ‘Saint Peter’

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 068 – My Good Buddy Peter From Ukraine

On this podcast, you’re going to hear my good buddy Peter from Ukraine. We actually have the same birthday and he’s only one hour older than I am.

But he’s more serious though.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 076 – What Are You Doing To Pursue Your Calling?

We conducted a Pursuing Your Calling Workshop in Ukraine. We tackled several topics such as: What’s a calling? What’s a job? and, What’s a role?

A calling is different from a role or a job and they’re not necessarily the same.

For example, we’ve encountered someone who insisted that her calling is to become a teacher. After we delved more into this, she realized that her passion is to develop and help people grow. And that she could have several different jobs that will help her in this calling.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 067 – Mini Adventure in Kyiv

We had a flat tire in Ukraine. I was with Brian, his wife, and their 3-week old baby.

It was very hot that day.

In the end, Brian and I felt pretty manly by changing the tire under 20 mins.

The baby slept soundly through it all.

Check out some video clips taken on the day of our adventure.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 075 – Meaningful Work Interview: James Dibben

Since 2004, James ran Builders Installation Group in Kansas City. The company specializes in installing high quality factory cabinets.

Early on, he spent a lot of time focused on making as much money as he could. After going through some hard times in 2007, he realized that there could be more to business than just making a lot of money. This is when he started Blue Collar Coaching, a coaching business for Blue Collar Workers.

Simply put, James started this business because he believed he can help a lot of people.

Tune in to hear more about how a hard-working blue collar man, is helping other blue collar men, through his coaching business.

You can visit his Web site here.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 074 – Plans For The Future

Our company, Leadership Equip, is going to have more and more cross-cultural focus. We’re going to focus on certain groups of people.

1. Folks coming to the US from different countries to find employment.
2. We’re going to start working more and more with clients outside the US. Currently, 20% of our clients are from outside the US. We’re going to increase this number more and more.
3. We’re going to have a calling workshop in Bulgaria in September.
4. We also have 2 new partners over in Eastern Europe who will help us in coaching people to help them find meaningful work.
5. You’ll also hear about Sasha or Alexander, whom I’ve met in Ukraine. You’ll learn more about him in our podcasts and blogs.

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But, he’s been listening to our podcasts…reading our blog…and has been actively engaging with us. We definitely wanted to meet him. And…it turns out…he wanted to meet us as well.

Aleksandr Svintsitsky is who I’m speaking about. Otherwise known as Sasha.

Sasha has a great story. He’s working for a good company and has good colleagues. He enjoys his work.

But…God has planted something inside of him…something that he’s recognized from a young age. Sasha wants to run his own business.

And…he has started that business and is already successful. I saw the fire and excitement in his eyes as he described it to me. We stood under a ledge there in Kyiv and watched the rain pour as he told me about his business…his faith…his family.

If Sasha can start a business, why can’t you? There’s plenty of excuses not to. But…there’s plenty of reasons to take the leap of faith…and do it.

Stay tuned for more stories about Sasha in the future. We are going to follow him and learn more about his business and his faith in the months to come…

Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 066 – Random Clips From My Time in Kyiv

This episode is a compilation of audio clips I recorded during my recent trip to Kyiv.

You can hear some night time sounds of people chatting in community.

You can also hear a couple of my friends in Kiev.

Just random stuff

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Pursuing Meaningful Life Episode 065 – Stories Of Me And My Friends In Ukraine

Over the next couple of days, you’re going to hear about me and my friends in Ukraine.

You’re going to hear about Peter, my good buddy. We share the same birth date and he’s only an hour older than I am.

You’re going to hear about Anya. Anya is also a partner. She’s coming on board as a coach, and helps us with workshops.

You’ll hear about the Welch’s and a little adventure we had in changing a flat tire, in the middle of a foreign land.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work Episode 073 – Reporting Live in Kyiv

I’m reporting live from Kyiv, Ukraine. At Leadership Equip, we want our content to be internationally-focused. We are going to Bulgaria in the fall. We’re going to help folks discern their vocations and help them determine which jobs will be a good fit for them.

By the time you listen to this, we would’ve finished conducting a Pursuing Your Calling workshop right here in Kyiv. The topics include the concept of calling or vocation, Myers-Briggs Personality profile, Values, etc.

Check out the video in Kyiv City Center.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 069 – Meaningful Work Interview: David Gurian

David used to be the Director of Ritz-Carlton. He and his wife decided to give up the prestige and everything that comes along with being a top boss of a luxury hotel.

After having a child, he and his wife contemplated moving back to their home town. But deep down, there was a more important reason or change that was needed to be made. They struggled to find the answer.

After fasting for two days, David came to the realization that he didn’t need his income and that God was calling him to pursue a different path.

Tune in to hear how David came to the realization that if before he was pursuing God to find the answers, now he was pursuing God because he is the answer.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 071 – Pursuing Your Calling Workshop in Ukraine

I used to live in Ukraine for 4 years and I simply loved it. My purpose of going back to Ukraine is to visit friends and to conduct a vocational calling workshop.

By the time you hear this podcast, the Pursuing Your Calling Workshop will be finished.

We’re excited about new things that are coming down the pike for PursuingMeaningfulWork.com.

Our friends in Ukraine will be starting their coaching services. We’re going to do some online workshops. So you could be from anywhere in the world to join in the workshop.

We also have the Online Career Coach coming soon. These are e-learning modules which you can sign-up for, for a fraction of the cost of having a face to face coaching program.

We created these to give people the opportunity to go through our coaching process online.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 064 – Life Goes On

I’m recording this podcast while standing on the balcony a high-rise apartment complex in Kyiv. It’s been five years since I lived here.

I’m back in Kyiv to enjoy spending time with friends. I’m also preparing for a Pursuing Your Calling workshop we’re about to do. I’m also reflecting all the time. There were some great times, tough times and everything in between.

It’s very humbling to know that life goes on with or without you. It’s a humbling thing but it’s a good thing.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 063 – Does God Care About The Details of Our Lives?

Sometimes, I’m not sure that God cares about the nitty gritty details of our lives.

But I heard a passage about the prophet Elijah and his miracles are regular, day-to-day life things like changing bitter soup to good-tasting soup.

I think that God does care about the details of our lives. I don’t think he tries to orchestrate or manipulate the things that we’re doing.

I think he cares about our lives and he’s equipping us to live the way he wants us to live.

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Have you ever thought about taking a major risk in your career?

We’ve got a career coaching client who’s right on the edge of making a big decision. It’s a hard decision. It’s risky. It’s potentially life-changing.

Have you ever taken a big risk in your career?

As you are reading this, I’m in Ukraine for a few days. A few years back…I took the leap off the corporate ladder and moved to Ukraine to teach English.

Was it risky? Of course.

But…the dividends have paid many times over…in many different ways.

I made lifetime friends. I made a ton of new business contacts. I made progress on my finances. Eventually…after I got back to the U.S…the international experience made me more marketable.

What risk do you need to take today? What’s stopping you?

You might be surprised at just how much a risk now could be rewarded in the future

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 070 – Quitting Your Job

David Gurian felt that God was leading him to quit his job and he did it. Hear more about his inspiring story on our next Meaningful Work Interview podcast on Sat, July 17.

On a recent poll on our web site, we received a lot of people who wanted to quit their jobs. When we add it all up, it came to 88% of people who took the poll, wanted to quit their job.

It’s not bad. But it’s important to have a plan. Figure out how much money you need to make the transition and what type of skills you need to develop in order to successfully pursue meaningful work.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 062 – What Are You Doing To Recharge Your Soul?

What are you doing to refresh, relax, and recharge your soul?

As Westerners, it’s as though if we’re not busy, we’re not worth anything.

When I lived in Ukraine, I developed the habit of taking one day to live outside of my ordinary life.

Do you stay so busy that you’re numb to everyday life, you’re numb to real relationships?

I challenge you to take one day a week to rest or do something out of the ordinary like throw a frisbee or throw ball with your son.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 069 – Meaningful Work Interview: Jeffrey Sy

Jeffrey Sy is a Virtual Assistant we hired a few months ago. He has been doing freelance work for about a year now.

Prior to this, he has been employed and working traditional jobs in an office for 10 years. He decided to resign to set up an ice cream business. It was also after he resigned when we found out that he can work from home, doing various freelance projects.

Tune in to hear how he has pursued meaningful work as a freelancer.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 068 – Feedback Episode

We’ve been engaging with a lot of folks on social media and our Facebook Fan page.

We really appreciate the messages and comments that you leave.

Listen to the podcast to hear some of the feedback and messages we have received from folks from around the world.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 061 – The Things That We Need

Do you ever think about the things that you need just to make it day to day, just to have the energy to live life to engage with people?

I need to stop and reflect to see how much I’ve changed through the years.

It’s been 8 years since I’ve lived in Kiev, the capital of Ukraine. I’m going to go back there in a couple of weeks and revisit some of the things that made my stay in Ukraine very enjoyable and memorable.

God touched me in Ukraine where I’ll never be the same again. I’ve recognized my need to lean on God every single minute of every day.

I want to encourage you to do the things you need to do to get in tune with how far you’ve changed and how far you’ve grown.

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Self-Employment: High Risk, High Return

Graphic designers, Virtual Assistants, Business Consultants, and many others…now offer their services globally through modern technology.

But isn’t owning your own business risky??

Yes, but this risk can pay off…

We’ve hired ‘free-lancers’ or ‘self-employed’ folks several times to help with our business. But recently, we decided to hire a free-lancer, a Virtual Assistant, for 15 hours a week. This was a big step for us. This was a risk for us.

But…this risk paid off. Our VA is doing quality work and really helping us to grow our business to be more profitable and more efficient.

There’s a very cool benefit for the free-lancers as well. It’s higher risk for them as well, but potentially higher return.

For example our VA Jeffrey will tell his story of becoming a free-lancer in our ‘Meaningful Work Interview’ podcast that will post this Saturday. As a free-lancer, Jeffrey was able to make enough money to pay off his mortgage in 6 months. In his previous job, it would have taken more than 6 years.

Is it higher risk to be self-employed? Possibly.

But the risk is well worth the return…

Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 060 – Where Is Your Security?

Where is your security?

This is a question I’ve wrestled with through the years. Is it in what others think of me? Is it in what my friends or enemies think of me? Through the years, I’ve really struggled with pleasing other people.

Too many times, I’ve given people power to validate me, if I’m ok or not ok. In the end, what is most important is what God thinks of me.

I’m growing in knowing my security is in God.

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Pursuing Your Calling: Global Edition

Why? Because I’ll return to Ukraine later this week.

Ukraine is a place that will always be near to my heart. I lived there for 4 years. Four years of exploring – geographically, relationally, vocationally.

I return to Ukraine on a regular basis now to help others wrestle with their calling….and discover their vocation.

But…I’m not alone in this quest. We have 2 partners that work with us in Ukraine. They live there full-time. They work among the Ukrainians day in and day out…and fully engage with and participate in the culture daily. They can connect with the people there in a way that I can’t…since I’m so far separated geographically.

We are ‘ramping up’ for more business in Ukraine. I’m excited about what these partners have done…and will be doing in the future. They have a passion for people. A passion for helping people grow. A passion for helping others discover their calling.

On July 14 in Kyiv, we’ll conduct the ‘Pursuing Your Calling’ workshop. If you’re in Ukraine and want to attend, please let me know. Contact me at brent@leadershipequip.com.

We’ll also be releasing several podcasts from our time in Ukraine. We’ll have interviews with those that have found or created meaningful work.

Stay tuned…more stories about ‘Pursuing Meaningful Work’…across cultures…

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 067 – Being Counter-Cultural

We’re going to conduct a seminar in Ukraine titled Pursuing Your Calling. Most of the things we’ll be teaching are counter-cultural, especially to the people of Ukraine.

We’re going to help people identify who they are at the core. We want to do things that help people in practical ways, even if it’s a hard road.

Don’t be afraid to be counter-cultural. Go out there and figure out what those talents are. Use them for good in others’ lives and in your vocation, in your life.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 059 – Declutter Our Lives

This is a joint podcast with my wife, Stephanie Green. One of the ways we pursue meaningful lives is through decluttering of our home.

It’s fun to throw away junk or give stuff we no longer need to people who need them.

We’re trying to make a habit of this. And we’ve done a pretty good job of decluttering on a regular basis.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 066 – Meaningful Work Interview: Mark Hufford

Mark, who used to work with a career coach and consultant, is now a coach himself.

Mark has been self-employed for the past 10 years. Prior to being a career-coach, he used to own Northwest Solutions, an agricultural service business.

He decided to sell that business to focus on consulting, mentoring, and coaching because he found that this fit really well with his passions and values.

He now enjoys the freedom and flexibility of setting his own schedule. And he now has more time to spend with his wife and kids.

But it entailed a lot of sacrifice on him and his family. A lot of patience and hard work brought about the success they are now enjoying.

Tune in to learn more about his pursuit to find meaningful work.

Check out his Web site at www.pastureplace.com.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 065 – Career Coaching Clients

We currently have three career-coaching clients who will be finishing their career-coaching in the next couple of weeks.

We’ve helped them identify what a good fit will be based on their personality, their passions and values. All three have action plans that they have implemented or are starting to implement. And they’re on the road to a better fit.

What about you? What are you doing to make sure in the future that you’ll be in a job or vocation that utilizes your strengths and values?

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 058 – Fake Kansas Country NPR Podcast

My brother-in-law is a goofy but cool guy.

Listen to our fake Kansas Country NPR Podcast.

Nothing serious about this at all. Just serious goofiness.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 057 – Exercising While Podcasting

I had trouble with my leg for about 3 years. But it’s slowly and steadily healing.

I can run some sprints, walk for an hour, and jog during and after recording podcasts.

I’d like to thank the people that have prayed and continue to pray for me, especially those people whom I never would’ve met if not for social media.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 064 – Do You Know What Your Strengths Are?

Do you know what you’re good at and what you’re passionate about? What do you love to do more than anything else in this world?

There are three of us working together with career coaching clients. When we work together with a client, it’s amazing to observe how each of our strengths complement one another.

Utilize your strengths and gifts in your job or vocation.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 056 – Building Relationships

Relationships with family are not perfect. That’s why it’s important to move towards building them to become deeper and more meaningful.

It’s always good to get together with family. It’s not always easy but it’s definitely worth it.

Invest your time with your family. Work through your differences, and move past the shallowness or pettiness that’s preventing you from forging a meaningful relationship with them.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 063 – Practical Sales Tips

This is a joint podcast between Howard Sheppard, owner of LifeBeyondTheAssemblyLine.com and myself.

In this podcast, Howard shares some practical tips on how to increase your sales. His insights will help our young entrepreneurs drive their businesses to the next level.

Tune in to learn more details…

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 062 – What Are You Doing To Grow?

What are you doing to grow in your career, to grow in your vocation? What are you passionate about?

When people are stuck, they need a little boost to put things together.

Get out there, start reading books, start listening to audio books and if it’s a genuine passion, these will ignite it that much more.

Tune in to learn more details…

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 061 – Why I Love Crossing Cultures

I’ve got a love for crossing cultures. Here’s how it all started…

Back in 1993 and 1994, I went to England and Ukraine on internship programs. I met a lot of cool and interesting people, some of whom, have become my long-time friends. It was during this time, that God ignited in me, a love for crossing cultures…a love for travel.

I went back to Ukraine in 2000 to visit friends. During this time, I felt that God was calling me to step out in faith and do something different – to go live and work cross-culturally.

Despite my success in my company at that time, I was wondering if I was being called to something more…something less ‘stable’, less ‘predictable’…

I was right. God was calling me to something different…a real cross-cultural adventure living in Eastern Europe for several years.

Tune in to learn more details…

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 055 – The Power of Fellowship

We recently attended a groundbreaking ceremony in our Church. Our Church is undertaking some expansion. It’s amazing to me, how our Church was able to raise a lot of money to build a new facility in the midst of a recession.

When we connect and bond together as the Body of Christ, it’s amazing what we can do together.

We’re stronger together with others than we are by ourselves.

So get out there….take advantage of the strengths and gifts that others have and offer them yourself as well.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 060 – Take That First Step

On his way to Damascus, Paul had his literal ‘Road to Damascus’ experience. It set his vocation…his ‘career’ on a very different path.

Are you waiting for your own “Road to Damascus” experience to turn your life around? You want work with meaning and purpose but are waiting for direction?

God is going to direct and guide you, but he’s also going to give you choice in the matter. You can use this choice and freedom in your career.

Whether it’s changing jobs, changing positions within your company, or starting your own business, God is going to guide you. But he also wants you to take responsibility, take that step forward, and take that leap of faith. And know that he’s going to help you along the way.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 059 – Meaningful Work Interview: Barbara Shatto

Life changes, circumstances change, and people make decisions to change.

That’s exactly what happened to some folks we met recently…

They were traditional dairy farmers. But…the market changed. Prices were down. Things looked bleek.

But – the folks at the Shatto Milk Company decided to make some changes…BIG changes.

They completely reorganized their business to cater towards these changes…and to meet the needs of their customers.

Tune in to hear the details of their story.

My wife and I visited the Shatto Milk Company, where we got to see first hand how the bottled milk are prepared. We also met the “rootbeer milk” cow.

Hear her story of how her family made an important decision to bring their traditional dairy farm to a different direction.

Check out their Web site here.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 053 – How Do You Connect With God?

God designed us in a way that we can connect with Him in a unique way, based on how He designed us.

I love writing. Journaling is one way I connect with God. Another thing I love to do is talking. So, I talk with God during nature walks.

What do you do to try to stay connected with God?

Get out there and try out some different things and you’re going to be able to experience the strength of staying connected with God.

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Need to Increase Sales for Your Small Business?

But, not everyone likes to ‘sell’ their products and services.

That’s where someone like Howard comes in…

Howard is a partner here at Leadership Equip, LLC. He’s also a coach.

But, Howard is focusing his time as a ‘Sales Coach’.

That’s right – Howard can help you develop a plan to sell your products or services. That’s why he’s going to be a guest on an upcoming podcast soon.

So…stay tuned for sales tips from Howard next week on our podcast!

Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 052 – Where Are Your Priorities?

I’m pondering on the answers to this question at the moment.

My answers are: first, is my relationship with God. Second, is my relationship with my wife. Third, is how I am using my gifts and abilities to serve people.

It’s important to remember that priorities change from time to time, they revise. But if you don’t stay focused on them and revisit them, they’ll just fade away.

I’m challenging you to answer the question, “Where are your priorities?”

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 058 – Pursuing Your Calling

“Did anyone just get the sack and are now using the downtime to discover God’s purpose in their lives?”

This is a question that was posted by a young man in our RansomedHeart.net ‘Pursuing Your Calling’ group.

After 10 years working for an accounting firm, he got sacked from his job. Actually, he’s now seeing it as a good thing.

In fact, he uses the time in reflection and prayer to find out what God’s purpose is, in his life.

If you’ve lost your job, God may simply have better things for you in mind. Trust God. Take some forward steps and don’t be afraid to embark on a new journey.

Tune in to hear more about pursuing your calling, even after a traumatic experience as losing your job.

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Are Job Interviews Frightening for You?

Here’s the poll questions:

‘What interview question do you fear most?’

Why are you leaving your current company?

Here’s the results:

The percentage to the right shows which questions people thought were the most difficult.
What are your salary expectations? 35%
What are your weaknesses? 35%
Tell us about yourself 15%
Why leave your current company? 15%

It’s interesting that there are some gender differences in the poll as well.

For example, women didn’t mind answering the weakness question. But, none of the men polled wanted to answer this question.

How can this information help you?

For starters, know that these and other questions will be asked in your next interview.

Job Interviews are Pleasant, if You're Prepared

1. Print out a list of potential interview questions (for ours click under ‘Resources’ tab above to download and print the free list).

2. Write out your answers.

3. Practice speaking your answers (first to yourself, then to others)

4. Don’t memorize your answers – just become very familiar with and polished in how you present them.

With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to answer these tough questions and impress your interviewer. And…you’ll increase your chances of actually getting the job

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 057 – Taking Risks in Your Career : High Risk, High Return

Are you afraid to take risks in your career?

High risk, means high potential return in the business world.

I’m not saying jump out there…make a stupid, impulsive decision. But – moving from predictability to higher risk positions, often brings a high rate of return.

No, I’m talking about just money, though money may be part of the reward. The reward may be a new experience, new friends, new adventure.

Tune in to hear more about my own story of taking risks in my career has paid off.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 051 – Valuing Relationships in the Business World

Over time, I’ve realized that my relationships with my clients have gone deeper and more fulfilling. And I’ve started to value those relationships in the business world, more than I thought I would.

Spending time with your business contacts is the best way to make these relationships more meaningful and fun.

Go out there and have fun with your business contacts. It’ll pay off personally, and professionally.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 056 – Your Personality and Your Career

How does your personality affect your job and your day to day life?

It affects it a lot!

Tune in as my partner (Lewis Pulley, Psy.D) and I discuss the value of knowing your own personality.

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The world calls....will you answer?

The love started years ago.

My first trip was to England. It was a ‘soft’ transition from the U.S. culture to the British culture. I loved meeting new people, laughing about differences in culture and language, and just enjoyed my cross-cultural experience.

My second trip was to Ukraine (in 1994) and wasn’t quite so soft It kicked my butt. I was there for part of the summer…and had to leave early because of an unfriendly virus

But – somehow…Ukraine ‘got me’. I fell in love with the culture and the people. And…I couldn’t stay away. I returned to Ukraine a few times through the years, then ended up moving to Ukraine to live there for several years.

In addition to that time in Ukraine, I’ve had jobs where I’ve worked all across Eastern Europe, Western Europe, South America, and Asia.

I just can’t get enough of crossing cultures. I’m ‘addicted’ to it. People will say ‘do that while you can…you won’t be able to do it later!’ But…I’d love to prove those people wrong. I love crossing cultures so much…that I want to do it until the day I die.

This summer, I’ll get the joy of traveling to Ukraine again for a few days. I’m looking forward to being in Kyiv and Lviv between July 10-16.

Then – in September, my wife and I will spend several days in Bulgaria. We’ll help with a conference for young business professionals who are seeking to find their place in the world….to make their mark on the world. We’ll help them to recognize God’s call in their lives…and to live it out in the business world.

How about you…do you like crossing cultures? Are you thinking of traveling or working across cultures? It’s so enriching…so fulfilling. If you haven’t considered it….do so. You won’t regret it.

Want to meet up with us on our trips to Eastern Europe in the coming months? We’d love to meet you and hear your story of how you are pursuing meaningful life and meaningful work. Send us an email at brent@leadershipequip.com….and we’ll set up a time to see you.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 055 – Unhappy with Your Job? Make a Change!

Are you trapped in a dead-end job, but don’t know how to get out?

Our new friend Jeffrey (from the Philippines) has ventured out and started his own business…and he likes it better than the corporate world.

Yes, it was a risk…but it was a risk that is paying off for him.

Learn more about his story in this episode.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 050 – Do you ever wonder what God is up to?

Have you ever experienced meeting a friend, from way back, whom you’ve never encountered again from the time your paths diverged?

These occurences are truly awesome. You can’t help but wonder what God’s purpose is. Yet, you know that something significant has happened.

Value your relationships and friendships for you never know just how important they are.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Looking for that perfect job?

And – that’s ok…that’s why we are in business.

But…sometimes…people are out to find that ‘perfect’ job. With the perfect boss. With the perfect salary. With the perfect hours. I hate to be the one to spoil it for you – but it just doesn’t exist.

There are good jobs and there are bad jobs.

There are jobs that are a good ‘fit’ for you…and others that aren’t.

Do you know which jobs are or aren’t a good fit?

If not, it’s time to find out.

Spend time reflecting on what you are most passionate about. Spend time finding out ‘what makes you tick’. Spend time researching which careers fit your personality type.

There may not be a perfect job out there. But, doing these things will prepare you to find that good ‘fit’ when it comes along.

Research shows that people live happier, more fulfilled lives that enjoy their work.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 054 – Cross Cultural Adventure

Ever get the desire to work across cultures?

Many people have the desire, but few follow through.

The risks are worth it…because the rewards are tremendous.

Tune in to hear about one man’s story – his journey from the Phillippines to the U.S. for a Ph.D. Program. And then – his journey into a new position for a Pharmaceutical company here in the U.S.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 048 – Exercise Update

A follow-up to a recent podcast on exercise.

Good news from the doctor…plus a small ‘kick in the butt’ for you

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 053 – Meaningful Work Across Cultures-Ukraine to Thailand

Ever get the urge to just quit your job and just go try something completely new?

That’s just what my friend Max did.

He left the security, comfort, and predictability of his home culture in Ukraine and moved to Thailand.

Tune in to hear about Max’s adventure of pursuing meaningful work across cultures.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 048 – Exercise as a Part of Your Life

Call me crazy…but I really do enjoy exercise.

It’s worth the pain, the discomfort during the process – because it helps me to feel good day to day.

But…that doesn’t mean it’s ‘easy’. And – sometimes, my body doesn’t always cooperate.

Tune in for tips and some struggles about exercise.

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The Global Workforce

That’s right – you are part of the Global Workforce.

You may not think about it day to day. But…you are.

People from nearly 60 countries have been reading these blogs and listening to our podcasts. Many of these people are seeking something new…something different.

Are you one of them?

Why not ‘dive in’ to the Global Workforce more?

There are opportunities all around.

For example – we just hired a Virtual Assistant (Jeff) for our growing business. He’s living in the Phillippines. We are based in Kansas.

You might ask – how does that work?

With modern tech tools, it’s actually quite easy. We had some referrals from friends. We posted our job on a reliable website. 11 people applied…and Jeff ‘rose to the top’ on the list of applicants.

We also use modern tech tools to communicate w/ Jeff daily. Skype, email. online file-sharing. It makes it easy – just as easy as hiring someone down the block from me.

Are you taking advantage of this Global Economy? Are you a part of a ‘Global Workforce’…or just locked into your dead-end job.

It may be time for a change. It may be time to get out of your cubical and join the ‘Global Workforce’.

Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 047 – Are You Re-Charging Your Batteries?

Are you ‘on the go’ all the time?

For many, it’s easy to get consumed by the details of life…and get bogged down in it. Next thing you know, your batteries are flashing ‘low’ and your body forces you to stop.

Why not take some time to re-charge your batteries regularly? You don’t have to ‘crash’ before you get a re-charge…

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 052 – Back to Work after the Holidays – Excited?

In the U.S. and in Eastern Europe, there are plenty of May holidays.

Are you excited about heading back to your job after these holidays?

Or, are you dreading it…wishing you could find a job that’s a better fit.

We’ve been working on it for about 3 months. And this week…we are releasing our first audiobook ‘Finding Your True North – A Quick Start Guide to Finding a Career You’ll love’.

Tune in to hear about our new book!

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 046 – Friends and Hot Air Balloons

Authentic friendships take time to grow. But – they are always worth it.

Tune in to hear about a recent expedition we had with some new friends. And – prepare to be challenged to seek out authentic friendships in your life as well…

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in a future podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 045 – Kicking Yourself?

Ever get frustrated with yourself? Frustrated about not doing something well? Frustrated about not following through on something?

I know I do. And…I was kicking myself over it this week.

But – there is grace…

Tune in to hear how grace can even apply to kicking yourself…

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 050 – Meaningful Work Interview: Rich Henderson

Rich and I worked at the some organization for a while.

Life changes, circumstances change, and people make decisions to change.

Hear his story of how he has transitioned to work that is a better fit for his talents, giftings, and skills.

Check out his organization at http://www.Nehemiah.org.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 044 – The World’s Smartest High School Graduate

Springtime brings special times.

One of those special times is graduation.

We had a friend graduate from high school this weekend.

Listen in as we hassle the world’s smartest grad and her parents…

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 050 – Feedback Episode: Trouble-Free Life?

I share some feedback from a friend in Wisconsin. His feedback is regarding a podcast from our ‘Pursuing Meaningful Life’ feed.

Tune in to hear whether or not I think you should have a trouble-free life .

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I was being asked to do business in honest, ethical ways. I was enjoying my customers. I was enjoying selling the products. And – I believed in our products.

But then, it happened.

We had one group of products that were defective. They were in our inventory. And the boss said we needed to sell them.

I wasn’t excited about the company selling them period. But – when the boss decided that we’d ‘slip’ them into the products for my best customer, I resisted.

Over the next 2 months, I had several conversations with the boss about this. He knew I wasn’t comfortable with selling these products. But in the end – I wasn’t going to change his mind.

And in the end – I wasn’t going to sell his products.

I told the customer what was happening. I resigned from my position because of my values.

I didn’t even have another job lined up yet.

What happened? Did I live off food stamps? Did I have to work at McDonald’s for 6 months?

Not even close. I found a new position and started 2 weeks after my final day with the previous company.

Did I mentioned that I took a 65% increase in salary and had much better benefits?

It could happen to you. You’d be surprised…that when you do the right thing…good things will come your way.

Are your values being compromised at your job today? Do the right thing. It will pay off in the end…

Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 042 – Find Your Calling and Live Happily Everafter?

In this episode, I’m reflecting on what it means to pursue your calling. And…wrestling with what it means to be ‘happy’ in your vocation.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in the next podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 042 – Wrestling With God’s Calling For Your Life

If you have found your ‘calling’, does that mean life will be easy?

Not necessarily…

Tune in to hear stories about calling from the Bible and my own life.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 041 – Does God Promise a Trouble-Free Life?

Are you seeking God in the details of your life?

If so…why?

I’ve been guilty of seeking God to provide me a trouble-free life in the past.

But – that’s not the case now. I still want to seek God…honor Him in my life. But – He gives me freedom and flexibility in how I live out the details of my life.

Tune in to hear how God interacts with me daily…but doesn’t remove responsibility of my decisions. And…He sure doesn’t provide me a trouble-free life

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 049 – Helping Latinos Learn English

My wife joins me on this podcast. And – we share a new venture of helping Latinos learn English.

Are you serving others in your work? If not, it may be time to find a way to do it.

Tune in to hear my lovely wife and I talk about our passion for helping internationals live a better life…

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 040 – Grounded in God

I need God through the highs and lows of life.

Tune in to hear a walkcast about my ‘walk’ with Him…

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 048 – Are You Willing to Take Risks??

I know several people that want to change jobs. But – they are afraid to take the risk.

Today, I just heard the story of a lady who I used to work with. When I worked with her, I was frustrated at times. She was in an administrative role. But – she didn’t have administrative gifts…at all.

It’s not that she was a bad person. It’s just that she ended up in a job that didn’t fit for her strengths. Then – she was paralyzed to make a decision to change.

In the end, someone else made the decision for her. She was fired.

Are you afraid to take risks? Are you willing to take a leap of faith to make a change?

If not, someone else might make the change for you…

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 047 – New Interviews and a trip to Eastern Europe

We’ve got a new group of guest interviews coming soon in our ‘Meaningful Work Interview Series.

And – we’ll be doing some podcasts from Eastern Europe soon

Tune in to hear about these things.

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That’s something that we hear often.

We are working with a career coaching client now that is struggling with this.

He’ had a good career. And – it was a great fit when he joined the company several years ago.

But – things change.

His day to day duties require him to work outside his greatest strengths and passions. And – he realizes now that his values are being compromised on the job day to day.

Has this happened with you?

Maybe your job was a good ‘fit’ at first. You liked your duties. You liked your co-workers. It fit with your values several years ago.

But – you got a new boss. Your friends left the company. You had to take a paycut. The details may be different…but you know you need to do it. You know you need to make a change.

There are too many opportunities in today’s world. Even in a recession, you can find something better.

It’s time to get rid of the ‘life-sucking’ job. It’s time to find a better fit…

Need help finding a better fit? We can help. Click the logo below for resources

Posted by Brent Green – Owner/Founder of Leadership Equip, LLC

Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 039 – I Need Change Often

Do you need change in your life?

I know I do…and often.

Tune in to hear about cool changes happening in my life. And – get ideas for making changes in your life.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 046 – Growth and Change in Our Business

Our business is changing…and we are excited about it.

Because of growth in our client base, we are ‘ramping things up’ for the future.

Tune in to hear about these upcoming changes.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 045 – Top 10 Fastest Growing Jobs

Want to know the jobs that are in demand right now?

It’s more important to know if one is the right ‘fit’ for you – your dreams, your goals, your passions, your personality.

Tune in to see if any of the 10 fastest growing jobs are for you…

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 038 –

Ever struggle with getting what you need…to live life well?

I have fun introducing my friends to the microphone.

Tune in to hear my buddy Todd Kolars and me get a bit goofy behind the mic…

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 044 – Meaningful Work Interview

She did more than just dream of owning her own business. She took that leap of faith…and now she’s the proud owner of a fantastic Bed and Breakfast.

I stay in B&B’s all the time…so if I say it’s fantastic, then it’s fantastic

Hear how she transitioned from the corporate world to be self-employed as a B&B owner. And – get tips on how you might take this ‘leap of faith’ for yourself one day as well…

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So are many folks around the world…but for a variety of different reasons.

Are you feeling ‘down and out’ going back to work today? Maybe you are one of millions of people around the world suffering from workplace depression.

Whether it’s the Monday morning blues or depression, you still need to stay engaged…and productive at work today. If so, here’s a few tips to help you stay engaged in your work today:

Stay Refreshed

It’s a simple concept, but the number one way to stay refreshed is to get adequate sleep. Did you ‘party it up’ this weekend, or did you get the rest you needed to come back focused and ready to roll? Research shows that people who sleep 8 hours or more are more productive at work.

Take Breaks

I know lots of folks (including me) that perform better at work when they take regular breaks. The human mind tends to get a bit cluttered (and bogged down) when sitting in one spot too long. Take 5 minute breaks often – go for a quick walk, talk to a co-worker, or have a light snack.

Set Daily Goals

When I sit down without a plan, those are the days I get the least accomplished. I do much better when I have my priorities established for the day. I attack them one at a time…making sure some of the hardest ones I do first. It’s gratifying when I get to ‘check them off the list’

You may be thinking of changing careers long-term. That may be the best route for you. But – stay focused at work today so your boss (and you!) will be happier at the end of this blah Monday.

Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 035 – Get What You Need…Unselfishly

Ever struggle with getting what you need…to live life well?

It may sound selfish, but at the core it’s not.

We need the things that give us ‘life’…in order to engage in life well.

Listen in…and here what real ‘life’ means to this simple, midwestern boy.

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You've Got Personality

In the picture is my wife and our good friend Christoph. Christoph is from Germany but we hosted him as a student a couple of years ago here in the U.S.

My wife and I love traveling. And – we love ‘studying’ the differences between people. We’ve been in many different countries and love to see the differences between our own culture and other cultures.

But – there’s one thing that’s constant…it’s that all people are unique. Everyone we’ve met in 30+ countries has their own unique personality.

Christoph was very detailed, very organized, very thorough. My good friend Peter in Ukraine is very relational, very spontaneous, very fun loving. My Japanese friend Hitoshi is very positive, enthusiastic, very supportive of everyone around him.

Why the personality differences?

We believe it’s because everyone is made uniquely…that everyone has unique sets of gifts and talents.

It’s taken me a long time to learn what makes me unique….but I understand it now.

Do you know what makes you unique? You’ve got ‘Personality’

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 043 – Do Others View You as You View Yourself?

I just finished working with a Career Coaching client. He completed the segment on ‘Personality’. And – that’s got me thinking about something….

Do you ever wonder if people see you as you see yourself?

That’s exactly what we addressed in today’s career coaching session.

For this particular client, most of his friends and colleagues agreed with him. The saw him as he saw himself.

But, there’s was one difference. One revealing…but very encouraging difference.

Tune in to hear this difference…and to get ideas of how to get feedback from others about your personality.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 035 – Forgiveness: Needed, but Not Easy

Ever struggle to forgive someone?

I know I have.

But, I must realize how much I’ve been forgiven of…and forgive others…even if it’s not easy.

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in the next podcast

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What's My Calling?

Do you have a calling?

Honestly…that’s a tough question.

Personally, I believe I do have a calling. But, I believe that calling can be expressed in several different ways in my life.

For example – I’m called to help people discover their ‘true selves’. That’s right….it might sound strange. But…that’s what I do.

Too often, we get caught up in the busyness of life and we can lose site of who we are at the core. I help people ‘unpack’ who they are at the core – by helping them to identify their personality, passions, values, etc.

Another part of my calling is to help people to take risks and live life fully.

In this part of my calling, I help folks put a plan to the ‘self-knowledge’ they’ve gained in the process of identifying their ‘true selves’.

Maybe, it’s finding a job that fits you well. Maybe it’s starting your own business. Regardless, we really focus on who you are at the core…then build a plan around that.

I could live out my ‘calling’ through different means…but being a career coach is how I choose to live it out.

How are you planning to live out your calling?

Need help discovering your calling? We can help. Click the logo below for resources

Posted by Brent Green – Owner/Founder of Leadership Equip, LLC

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 042 – Pursuing Your Calling

He’s tired of it. He loved his job at first, but the job changed through the years. Now, he’s ready for a change.

Did you think I was describing you?

No, I’m describing a new career coaching client. This person is making a change. Instead of looking for a job…he’s in pursuit of his calling.

Are you pursuing your calling? If not, it’s time to start…

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 035 – The Walk of Life : Balance

Do you need balance in your life?

I know I do.

Exercise, experiencing the outdoors, deep relationships….these things all provide ‘balance’ for me personally.

How about you? What do you do find (or create) balance in your life?

Please call our feedback line at 888-499-3689. We’ll include your comments in the next podcast

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 041 – Meaningful Work Interview:Dallon Christensen

Are you thinking of starting your own business?

Dallon thought about it for a while…now he’s doing it.

Tune in to hear his story of how he’s building a quality business around his strengths, skills, and passions.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 040 – Feedback: I lost my job!!

A listener sent me some feedback this week.

The long and the short of it: She lost her job and she’s struggling to find a good ‘fit’ for her next job.

In this episode, I read her feedback and give her some input in finding work that’s a good ‘fit’ for her.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 034 – Run Before You Walk

Are you paralyzed before you make a decision?

Are you fear-ridden that your decisions may be wrong?

There’s rarely guarantees in life that things will work out the way you think they will.

But – you’ve still got to dive in, get your feet wet, make decisions and learn from the process itself.

Sometimes, you’ve got to run before you walk

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 039 – Interview on CoachRadio.TV

I’ve enjoyed being a guest on some other podcasts recently.

In this episode, Justin Lukasavige interviews me for his weekly podcast entitled ‘My Story’. He’s highlighting entrepreneurs that have started businesses recently.

Tune in and hear some good tips on starting a business.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 033 – I Need Deep, Meaningful Relationships

Do you know that you are wired to be in real relationship?

I don’t mean the ‘Hi! How are you?’…and then that’s the depth of it…

Tune in to hear me wrestle with my desires for deep relationships…and coming to grips with limitations of relationships as well.

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The Undercover Boss Fan Podcast
Episode 003 – Herschen Family Entertainment

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We’re going back through the entire season of Undercover Boss to continue our podcasts.

Sometimes…I like to go backwards. And – that’s exactly what we are going to do. This episode we’ll discuss the episode with Joel Manby at Herschen Family Entertainment. Then…we’ll work our way back to the first episode.

Hope you enjoy this week’s installment of The Undercover Boss Podcast.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 033 – Falling Back on Grace

God has wired me to be relational…to want deep, meaningful relationship. But…relationships fail sometimes.

This has happened recently. And it was painful.

And I’ve had to fall back on God’s grace…..

Tune in to hear about God’s grace in my own life.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 038 – Being in Community as You Grow Your Business

Are you trying to build a business, but struggling?

If so, it’s time to get in community.

That’s right…running a business is not for loners. You’ll need the help and insight of others.

Tune in to hear suggestions on how to surround yourself with a supportive, engaged community as you grow your business.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 037 – Leap of Faith in Nebraska

I love staying in B&B’s when I travel. And – every B&B owner seems to have a unique story.

Tune in to hear the story of a B&B owner in Nebraska…and to be challenged to take your own leap of faith.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 031 – Keanon, Me, and the Kangaroo

Sometimes…it’s fun just to goof around. That’s part of what it means to live life with meaning to me.

In this episode, my good buddy (and neighbor) Keanon and me just goof around on the microphone. We had a surprise visitor from Australia with us in the studio…a Kangaroo.

Tune in to hear some serious goofing off

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A couple of weeks ago, I posted a blog and podcast entitled “Negotiationg: After the Job Offer Comes”.

This particular post was also published in a local newspaper in Gardner, KS where I live (near Kansas City).

The cool thing about modern technology…is that people can interact with us instantly. You can post on this blog. You can send us Twitter messages. You can make comments on the article in the online newspaper.

There was a comment that day about my article that read:
Dude, who are you talking to? wrote on 3/29/2010 4:18 pm

Negotiate during a recession? Why don’t you just come to the interview in flip-flops and wife-beater? You’re more likely to get the job that way.

I did respond…tactfully…to the reader. And – gave him examples of folks that have negotiated for a better position…DURING the recession.

Here’s the thing. I’m going to do my best to help people find a job that fits them well. And – I’m going to do my best to help people negotiate for the best deal they can – recession or not.

Are you using the Recession as an excuse in the job search?

Stop making excuses and get bold about your job search.

And – I hope that pisses you off…

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 035 – Fat Man Fired in Hospital Bed

It’s true. He was in the hospital for a weight problem. And – his company fired him while he was literally in bed awaiting an operation.

Who is this person? It’s someone who has a great story. And – he just happens to be one of our coaches here at ‘Pursuing Meaningful Work’.

Tune in to hear the story of Howard Sheppard…

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The Undercover Boss Fan Podcast
Episode 002 – 1800-Flowers

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We’ve been watching the show all season, but just decided to launch the podcast over the past couple of weeks.

This week’s boss is Chris McCann, President of 1800-Flowers.

Like it or hate it, ‘The Undercover Boss’ is being watched by millions of Americans.

Tune in to hear our comments on the latest episode.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 030 – The Value of Real Relationship

Nothing is more important to me than real, deep, long-lasting relationship.

It hasn’t always been that way. But – in recent years…I’ve come to see the value in long-term relationships.

In this episode, a good friend (who dropped by from Ukraine!) and I talk about what value our long-term relationship has brought to our own lives.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 035 – Afraid to Start Your Own Business?

Are you interested in starting a business…but afraid to do so?

In this episode, I challenge you folks to face your fears and start a business.

I highlight a successful entrepreneur in Texas…who faced her fears…took a leap of faith and just did it. She dove in…started the business…and went with it.

Tune in for more details on her story…and how to start a business.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 029 – ‘Spring’ To Life

Spring brings new life…in me…in those around me.

But what gives you life?

Call our feedback line to tell us what gives you live in the Spring at 888-499-3689.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 034 – Wisconsin to Dubai…to Pursue a Calling

Interview with Becky Stephen about her pursuit of meaningful work.

Would you leave a ‘secure’ job…where you enjoy your work, like your colleagues, and love the area where you live?

You might if you are pursuing a greater purpose…and a calling…

Tune in to hear Becky’s story of calling, faith, and adventure.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 028 – The World’s Coolest Wife

I know my wife is very cool. But…I didn’t realize just how cool. Lately, I’ve seen her growing so much as a person…so much as a Christian.

Are you growing…moving forward in life?

Tune in for reflections on growth in our lives.

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The Undercover Boss Fan Podcast
Episode 001 – Roto-Rooter

Right-Click Here To Download

We’ve been watching the show all season, but just decided to launch the podcast.

Like it or hate it, ‘The Undercover Boss’ is being watched by millions of Americans.

Tune in to hear our comments on the latest episode with Rick Arquila, COO of Roto-Rooter.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 033 – Survival Jobs

Our goal is to help you find work that you enjoy – work that’s a good ‘fit’.

However, sometimes…you have to take a ‘survival job’ in between career moves just to pay the bills.

Tune in to hear our philosophy on these survival jobs.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 027 – God’s Glory on a Windy Day

Do you know that God’s creation reflects his glory? And you. That’s right…YOU reflect God’s glory in a unique way as well.

Tune in for reflections of God’s glory on a windy, Kansas day.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 032 – From Apache Helicopter Pilot to Career Coach

It’s always interesting to hear someone’s story of pursuing meaningful work.

Our most recent guest is Lewis Pulley.

He’s traveled around the world for the military as an Apache Helicopter Pilot.

He’s now ‘landed’ in Ohio to work on his Psy.D.

And – he’s one of our career coaches here at ‘Pursuing Meaningful Work’.

Tune in to hear his story….

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 031 – Working Across Cultures: Is it for You?

Are you interested in working across cultures?

Maybe you want to move from Ukraine to the U.S. for a couple of years of university.

Maybe you want to leave your small town in Nebraska and teach English in Japan for a year.

Maybe you want to work for a multinational company on the other side of the world.

Regardless of where you want to go geographically, there are some principles that can help you to live successfully in any culture.

Tune in as we discuss these principles that will help you to work and live successfully in a culture other than your own.

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Pursuing Meaningful Life

Episode 026 – Kansas Cross-Cultural Adventure

I love cross-cultural adventures. But…I didn’t expect it to come to me in Kansas. Tune in to hear about my adventures with my new Phillippino colleague

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 030 – Networking and New Media

Networking…it’s something that we all have to do at some level.

But…why is is necessary?

Whether it’s working on finding a new job or getting more connected with your church family, networking is an important part of today’s society.

I just had lunch with a good friend. We both cited examples of how face to face network has helped us in our careers. But – with modern technology, there are now ‘New Media’ ways to network as well.

In this episode I interview a friend in Cincinnati, Ohio who has become a master networker…both in person as well as through New Media.

Daniel Johnson Jr. shares his story of networking through different new media tools in today’s business world.

Tune in to hear practical examples of how networking can benefit you personally and in your career.

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Episode 025 – Working Through Emotions: Stories of a 4 Year Old and a 38 Year Old

Emotions are interesting. It doesn’t matter what your age…you need to be able to express emotions in healthy ways.

Join in on the discussion about finding healthy ways to express our emotions to those around us.

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It’s Monday all around the world. This means millions of people returning to their job after the weekend.

So how do you feel about returning to work? Excited? Frustrated? Numb?

Too many people return to the workplace on Monday mornings with a sense of dread. But…it doesn’t have to be that way.

Have you ever considered that your work could be enjoyable? Have you ever considered that there may be a better job for you…one that fits your strengths, your passions, your interests?

I love hearing stories from folks that have found meaningful work.

My friend Andy Traub: He gets up on Monday mornings after a weekend with his family…excited…anticipating a new week running his own business. He helps use technology to make their business more profitable

My friend Tom Mertz: He started a printing business in his own bedroom about 20 years ago. He’s grown it into a multi-million dollar company that has a global scope. When I see him, he’s often excited about his next business venture.

My friend Larry Coleman: He’s a veterinarian in Western, Nebraska. He loves people…and he loves animals…and it shows. His passion for his work is contagious.

What’s a common theme among these folks? They’ve all taken time to determine what they are good at…what they like…and they’ve built a business around it.

Want to be excited about Mondays? We can help you find or create work with meaning and purpose. Then…Mondays will never be the same again.

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Pursuing Meaningful Work
Episode 029 – Running Your Own Business…Don’t Do it Alone!!

Lots of people want to start their own business. But, many folks are afraid to do this. Some of these are legitimate fears…but many are not.

One of the best ways of running a business is getting help where you need it. Whether it’s a group of advisors or just good friends to tell you the truth…you need the support of others.

Tune in to this episode to hear more about running your business…

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Episode 024 – Being in Community: Rebuilding Greensburg, Kansas

Are you plugged in to a community? Do you recogize your need for relationship…for support day to day?

In this episode, I’m out for a walk in Greensburg, Kansas…a town that was 90% destroyed by a tornado. Because of the strength of the community, Greensburg is rebuilding. It’s a great example for all of us about the strength of being in real community.

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Episode 023 – Seasons of Change and Going Lean

How do you navigate the seasons of change in your life? And…what will motivate you to make changes?

Reflections on living internationally, eating too much, and how to recognize when you need to change.

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Episode 028 – Starting Your Own Business…From Anywhere in the World

We love highlighting success stories of entrepreneurs.

This week, we interview Justin Lukasavige who successfully runs his own business. But…not just any business…a global business.

The principles that Justin uses can literally be applied anywhere in the world. Tune in to hear how Justin uses modern technology to operate his business.

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I hear an excuse like this fairly often. People are afraid to ‘venture out’ on their own…to start their own business.

There are stories of people that have done it successfully though.

We’ve interviewed several people on our ‘Pursuing Meaningful Work’ podcast that have started their own business. This week, I interviewed Justin Lukasavage from North Carolina.

He faced his own fears and took that leap of faith several years ago. Now, he’s successfully self-employed…and is eager to help others become self-employed as well.

Sure…this blog entry is just a ‘teaser’. I’ll release the interview with Justin tomorrow.

But think about this. Would you leave a 6-figure job as an airline pilot to pursue a passion of self-employment? That’s just what Justin did…..