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What does it truly mean to find your calling in life? In this thought-provoking conversation, hosts John Wandolowski and Greg Powell delve into Jeff Goins' bestselling book "The Art of Work: A Proven Path to Discovering What You Were Meant to Do" to uncover the seven-stage journey toward meaningful work.
Forget the misconception that finding your purpose requires a perfectly mapped five-year plan. Jeff Goins reveals that discovering your calling is more about embarking on a winding path with unexpected turns and revelations. The hosts break down the essential stages: awareness (recognizing what your life is telling you), apprenticeship (learning from mentors already in your orbit), and practice (embracing the painful aspects of growth that separate a calling from a mere hobby).
Both John and Greg share personal stories that bring these concepts to life. From John's evolution from mechanic to maintenance supervisor to construction leader, to Greg's journey through operations and sales before finding his true calling in human resources, their experiences validate Goins' assertion that our careers rarely follow a linear trajectory. Particularly insightful is their discussion of "the portfolio life" – embracing multiple roles and interests rather than limiting yourself to a single career identity.
Perhaps most compelling is their reflection on legacy. As Pericles wisely noted, "What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others." The hosts reveal how their greatest professional satisfaction came not from tangible achievements but from developing teams and helping others advance in their careers.
Whether you're starting your career journey, feeling stuck in a professional rut, or contemplating your next move, this episode offers valuable wisdom about aligning your work with your deepest values and purpose. As UCLA coach John Wooden advised, "Just do the best you can. No one can do more than that."
Connect with us at [email protected] or [email protected] to share your thoughts or suggest future topics. And check out John's book "Building Your Leadership Toolbox" on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

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Presented by John Wandolowski and Greg Powell