BLOGS & RESOURCES

8/7/18 8/7/18

Higher Purpose Podcast Episode 54: The 6 Obstacles to Success

"Make us to choose the harder right instead of the easier wrong and never to be content with a half truth when the whole can be won." That is the West Point Cadet Prayer, but it’s not just for cadets. It‘s for all of us, especially those of us who strive to live our purpose. Today, Kevin talks about thing things that get in his way on his path to purpose. If you’re anything like him, you have probably experienced them, too.

If you’ve been listening, you’ve heard about the 13 weeks to purpose, and this week, it’s all about encouragement. Socrates said, to paraphrase, ‘always be kind because you don’t know about another person’s battles.’ Kevin shares how his fans did just that for him.
Frustration is first on the list of things that Kevin confronts often. Has anyone ever asking you why you're SO frustrated? And do you take it as a complaint or a compliment? In fact, it’s an invitation, and Kevin talks about why he’s shifted his beliefs around frustration to become the source of something positive in his life. Specifically, you can use your frustration as fuel.
Have you ever suffered from Imposter Syndrome? It’s when you doubt your accomplishments and live in fear of being exposed as a fraud. Kevin has a wealth of experience, accomplishments, credentials, and proof that he’s everything he says he is, and even HE suffers from imposter syndrome. He shares how it’s been crippling in his life even when his friends tell him otherwise. It’s time for you to stop living in the scarcity loop and start living in the abundance loop.
Have you been caught in the belief that there’s nothing ordinary about yourself? Maybe you grew up in a middle-class family, average income, average schooling, average… everything. It can be hard to see anything extraordinary in yourself, but you’re blind to the truth. Being extraordinary doesn’t have much to do with that. Kevin explains how you can be extraordinary every single day.
It’s time for you to adopt the belief that getting it right is overrated. For all you perfectionists out there, Kevin understands completely, and he’s let that perfectionism stop him short many times before. He’ll be the first to tell you that there are so many things he should and could have done if not for giving up before he started because he knew it wouldn’t be perfect. Getting it right is overrated; keeping it real is where your head should be.
One of the things that goes hand in hand with getting it right is overthinking it. Fortunately, Kevin has a wonderful friend he can call on when he realizes he overthinking things, because in truth, overthinking leads to underacting on something. The correction to overthinking is to take action. Do something, move forward, make progress. Imperfect action always trumps perfect inaction.
Finally, do you downplay success? And worse, do you replay failure? This is yet another of the struggles Kevin faces, but how about you? Have you found yourself sapped of all motivation because of this way of thinking? Kevin’s got a challenge for you. Take time to celebrate success. Learn from your failures but don’t cling to them. In fact, you need to redefine what failure means to you because if you’ve learned something, THAT is a success.

7/31/18 7/31/18

Higher Purpose Podcast Episode 53: Better Together with Rusty George

As we’ve often said, purpose thrives in community and dies in isolation. Today’s guest, Rusty George, agrees. In fact, he published a book entitled Better Together where he talks about the power of community. Rusty is a pastor, speaker, and leader, and in today’s episode, Rusty and Kevin talk about what community really means when you’re living a purpose-filled life.

We are more connected than ever before, so why does it feel like we’re more alone than ever? In the UK, they’ve added an empty chair and called it the Minister of Loneliness because of the epidemic they perceive in their country. Rusty shares a story about wanting one thing but getting another, like how social media is supposed to be social – do you resonate with his message? It’s not about how many online friends you have; it’s about how many people really know YOU.
Rusty was inspired to write Better Together after a very lonely period in his life where he didn’t interact outside of his family and work. He spent a lot of time doing solo activities, and it made him realize how empty it made him feel. What Rusty realized is that the only thing he hadn’t tried was community, a group of like-minded people he could talk to and relate with. He decided that the way to fix me is with
How do you define your reality? Do you get frustrated and tired of all the people around you and finally retreat to the safety of the people closest to you then tell yourself the story that ‘this is enough?’ There’s a long-term problem associated with that, and it can BREAK the people closest to you. It’s a dangerous reality that doesn’t help you at all.
Have you spent a lot of time in self-discovery? You’re probably putting your thumb on the scales as you weigh your strengths and weaknesses. More importantly, there are some things that you can ONLY discover by being with others. Rusty talks about some of his own issues, like considering himself a strong leader when he’s actually a control freak.
As leaders, we often think that we need to be perfect and to not show our vulnerability. But the opposite is true. Rusty agrees that the incomplete leader is one we should praise and strive to be, because we’ll never truly be complete or perfect. To try to be otherwise will only isolate us more.
There’s a trend online to be hyper-vulnerable, but it’s not the same. It does very little for your personal growth to be vulnerable with people who don’t know you. In fact, those who share on social media rarely share the whole story of why they feel the way they do, so they really aren’t connecting and letting other people know who they are. Rusty believes that you don’t have to be vulnerable to all, but you have to be vulnerable to some.
One important thing to point out is that vulnerability doesn’t go one way. It’s just as important to find someone who you can be vulnerable with as it is to be engaged as they share themselves with you. Realize that you won’t always understand exactly what someone else is going through, but simply being there for them is enough. That’s where connection begins.
One thing we’re all guilty of from time to time is going into things with certain expectations, and according to Rusty, expectations are pre-arranged resentments. You’re setting yourself up, in many cases, for disappointment, and that leads to the belief that others have somehow failed you. It’s no way to live, and you need to hear what Rusty has to say.
In a community, listening is essential. The best way to do that is to try to ask 3 questions. Rather than formulating your witty reply, discover more about the person you’re with. Not only will it impress the person you’re with; it will help you get to know who THEY are rather than steamrolling them with who YOU are. It’s one of the most generous things you can do.
Have you noticed how the act of ‘consumerism’ has invaded our social circles? Certainly, you’ve talked with someone who was only interested in what you could do for them, but have you noticed it in yourself? Consumerism is the anathema of community; you can never connect on a deep level if you’re only in it for yourself.

An Extraordinary ExperimentThank you for listening to this episode of the Higher Purpose Podcast. Remember, if you ever think that your work could be less ordinary, there’s not much between you and something extraordinary. Just 13 weeks, and a bold experiment. Find out more about the Extraordinary Experiment here!Rusty GeorgeFacebook Website Better Together BookGet a free copy of the book!Tweet @kevin_monroe, and let him know you heard about the book on the Higher Purpose Podcast! You could win a free copy of Better Together by Rusty George.

7/24/18 7/24/18

High Purpose Podcast Episode 52 - Looking Back with Purpose

Kevin reflects on 52 weeks of the Higher Purpose Podcast, sharing some of the things he’s learned and experienced along the way. Kevin discusses five ways that purpose benefits all of us - a retrospective on the incredible guests that have been on the show and some of the big takeaways from a year of energizing and inspiring conversations.

Kevin shares the story of how, at the outset, the Higher Purpose Podcast almost didn’t happen! How does purpose help you persevere in difficult times? This podcast itself is an example of how purpose can prop us up and help us through the challenges we face.
When we’re frustrated, there is a gap between our experience of reality, and what we believe is possible. What isn’t coming together in your life as you had hoped it would? How can you tap into the power of purpose in order to regroup, and focus on the things you are here to do?
Purpose attracts. It attracts great people to each other, to important causes, and to inspired projects. It helps us forge relationships and form community, so we can support each other and better achieve our purpose, together.
Purpose connects. It is like glue that holds people together. Kevin reflects on the guests who have joined him this year, and the amazing web of inspired thought formed by these conversations.
Purpose inspires. Which conversations on the show inspired you? And what is a conversation you’d like to hear or have on the Higher Purpose Podcast?
Purpose energizes. It has a way of energizing the most routine tasks, of enlivening and enriching conversations. The higher the purpose, the greater the energy. It inspires us to aspire to be more than we would otherwise be.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of higher purpose to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com, or call Kevin at 678-744-5111!

An Extraordinary ExperimentThank-you for listening to this episode of the Higher Purpose Podcast. Remember, if you ever think that your work could be less ordinary, there’s not much between you and something extraordinary. Just 13 weeks, and a bold experiment. Find out more about the Extraordinary Experiment here!

7/17/18 7/17/18

HPP Episode 51 - Why Hierarchy is Bad for Business with Brian Robertson

What would your workplace look like without any managers? Brian Robertson says that management hierarchies create a parent-child dynamic between managers and workers that actually undermines organizations. Through experimentation in his own entrepreneurial enterprises, he found a new kind of organization – one that allows us to use our collective consciousness for a purpose. He called the system Holacracy, and now it is implemented by thousands of businesses worldwide.

Brian became an entrepreneur because, after coming up against bureaucracy in the companies he worked for, he thought: there must be a better way to do things.
Individuals often are conscious – they see problems and have ideas about how to fix them. But how can we build an organization where anyone who identifies a change that would improve the organization will be able to implement that change?
Many people assume that management hierarchy is the only option for organizing business. But when Brian became a CEO himself, he realized that even from the top, the structure was limiting how effective he could be in supporting the purpose of his organization.
If employees need the boss to empower them, that means they are fundamentally in a disempowered position. Brian has created a system that involves everyone in defining the boundaries, rules, and responsibilities, in a non-hierarchical business environment.
With Holacracy, when you fill a role and have a purpose to express, you can take any action to achieve your purpose - as long as there is not already a rule against it. This is the opposite of how things work in most workplaces – where the manager has to okay any new initiative. Brian says this kind of system creates a fundamentally empowering, and much more effectual, workplace.
How is Holacracy implemented? Brian explains how eliminating managers actually works, and the benefits of increased flexibility and distributing burden and responsibility throughout an organization.
For more information, check out Brian’s website, his book about Holacracy, or check out his network of licensed Holacracy trainings offered throughout the world!
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of non-hierarchical empowerment to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

7/2/18 7/2/18

HPP 49 - Conscious Capitalism with Alexander McCobin

Alexander McCobin was on his way to a Ph.D. and a career in academia when he changed life paths and started Conscious Capitalism, an organization and global movement that blends philosophy and practicality to promote ethics in business. Alexander discusses how he helps businesses find their purpose and discover what they can contribute.

Most people are taught that the purpose of business is maximizing profit. This is what is taught in business school. Conscious Capitalism says that the purpose of business is not profit – it’s creating value in the world.
The origin of capitalism in the 1700s was actually grounded in moral theory. Alexander tells the story of why he started Conscious Capitalism – to promote purpose and ethics in business, getting back to the philosophy that was historically at the heart of capitalism.
Too many people hear the words “conscious capitalism” and think the idea is an oxymoron. But through the dedication of individuals focused on purpose and ethics, a culture shift is changing the meaning of business in our society.
Alexander says free enterprise capitalism is the most powerful system for social cooperation and human progress ever conceived. Sounds different from our stereotypes about capitalism, doesn’t it?
Conscious Capitalism has 4 key pillars. Business is good because it creates value. It’s ethical because it’s based on voluntary exchange. It's noble because it can elevate our existence. And it's heroic because it lifts people out of poverty and creates prosperity.
Business should be about creating value for other people and lifting people up, and helping humanity flourish. Conscious Capitalism is spreading this philosophy and creating a change in business culture worldwide.
Alexander discusses the importance of leaders embodying not only high IQ, but also spiritual intelligence – and explains what that could mean for your business.
To find out about upcoming events, sign up for groups and mailing lists, and find learning experiences and master classes, you can visit the Conscious Capitalism website.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of Small Giants’ secrets to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

6/26/18 6/26/18

HPP 48 - The Secrets of Small Giants with Bo Burlingham

Just over 10 years ago, Bo Burlingham wrote Small Giants - a book about “companies that choose to be great, instead of big.” Now Small Giants is a movement, a community, and an annual Forbes list. Kevin talks to Bo about the rise of entrepreneurship, his personal journey, and the role of purpose in doing business differently, and succeeding.

There was a time not that long ago when “entrepreneur” was an insult. Bo tells his story, from becoming a magazine writer, to being one of the first journalists to focus on entrepreneurship before it was a respected business path.
Small Giants was inspired by Zingerman’s, a company you may recognize from a previous episode. When Zingerman’s was a young up-and-comer, they had the opportunity to franchise, but found a new and different way to grow – by launching a series of totally unique and high-quality businesses.
Bo began wondering if there were other companies that had made similar choices – to focus, not on becoming as big as possible as fast as possible, but on something more important. This was the question behind Small Giants, and Bo’s decades of research in small business journalism helped him discover some shining examples of just this kind of business.
The first key feature of successful, purposeful business is creating a deep link to the community you’re in. Bo shares the other 5 qualities that he identified in entrepreneurial leaders who achieved real success while also pursuing goals beyond the profit margin.
Catch up with Bo through his website, or check out another movement inspired by a different book he wrote, The Great Game of Business.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of Small Giants’ secrets to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

6/19/18 6/19/18

HPP 47 - An Experiment in Developing Human Capability with Bruce Ballengee

Kevin sits down with Bruce Ballengee, founder and CEO of Pariveda Solutions. Pariveda is a tech consulting company doing things differently. The mission of Pariveda is helping people achieve their highest potential – including both their clients and their employees. Bruce discusses how focusing on purpose has translated into success for his business.

What happens when a new business claims, as its purpose, lifting up lower- and middle-class people? Bruce shares his journey in selling his previous company and conceiving of a new business to serve a new purpose.
Can a technology consulting firm become successful by focusing, first and foremost, on growing the individual to their greatest potential? Bruce says that Pariveda is not the exception, but the rule. Changes in industry standards towards purpose-driven business have a reason behind them – evidence says they work.
Bruce treats business as an experiment – he started out in business with a hypothesis. This is how people become pioneers in their field – by trying something new.
Bruce “evaluates” employees using something called the expectations framework. The goal? Developing employees to the level of an effective executive – people capable of generating business.
What is the relationship between empathy, self-actualization, belonging, and success in business? Bruce explains how these elements all come together in servant leadership.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of positive social impact to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

6/12/18 6/12/18

HPP 46 - Business as Poverty Reduction with Brandale Randolph

Brandale Randolph is a social activist and entrepreneur who is working to alleviate the cycle of poverty through business. He runs the 1854 Cycling Company, a company that employs those who are most at risk of living in poverty – specifically, mothers with criminal records. He also runs Project Poverty, a non-profit aimed at reducing poverty. Brandale discusses the power of business to give back to society and break the cycle of poverty.

Brandale tells the story of his trajectory from hedge fund broker to social activist, and how he found purpose through social organizing against poverty.
The 1854 Cycling Company is named after the first meeting of the Anti-Slavery Society on July 4th, 1854. Brandale locates the inspiration for his business in this history of social activism, and the purpose of supporting women leaving prison.
For women leaving prison, the re-offending rate is lower than men, but their poverty rate is much higher. Brandale asks: are they really free if they are living in such poverty? Who is going to stand up for these women in the way people stood up for enslaved African Americans? The 1854 Cycling Company is a small piece of that puzzle.
Kevin and Brandale discuss the challenges that The 1854 Cycling Company has faced due to stigma against formerly incarcerated people, and the importance of preserving the humanity and futures of these women and their children.
Can a for-profit business operate in a way that makes even more impact than a non-profit? Brandale says yes – businesses actually have more ability to create meaningful impact.
What does effective leadership look like? Brandale says that effective leadership allows people to do what they do best, and supports them through this process.
You can support The 1854 Cycling Company by visiting their website, Facebook, or Instagram!

Visit the Purpose Profiles website for access to all of Kevin’s interviews with purpose-driven leaders worldwide.

6/5/18 6/5/18

HPP 45 - Upleveling Your Business, Leadership, and Life

Kevin is currently in the first phases of the Extroardinary Experiment. What is the Extraordinary Experiment? It’s a program open to anyone who wants to join - anyone who believes that living an extraordinary life is within your reach. Each week incorporates a simple challenge that is tailored specifically to you. Kevin gives us a rundown of what being extraordinary means, and how to move beyond the ordinary.

What comes to mind when you think of the word extraordinary, and what does it mean to you? Can you think of an experience you’ve had that you would call extraordinary? Kevin invites you to examine and dissect your remarkable experience, and apply those lessons to your life and business.
Kevin proposes an interesting theory – that an extraordinary message or experience is actually very simple, and very ordinary! Learn what takes it to the next level.
What is it that takes certain experiences to the next level and makes them stand out in our memories? How can we apply those lessons to our own lives? Kevin shares the story of an extraordinary experience he had with the health care system during his time caring for his mom.
As you develop your skills, talents, and abilities, what’s a stretch for you today becomes more comfortable in the future. Kevin talks about the importance of reevaluating and redefining the extraordinary for yourself.
The path to extraordinary achievement is easier to find than you might think. It’s not about what you do, but how you’re going about doing it. Kevin explains the key difference between ordinary and extraordinary performance.
If you or someone you know is interested in upleveling your business, leadership, or life, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

5/29/18 5/29/18

HPP Episode 44 - The Changing Face of Investing with Lisa Cooper

Kevin talks with Lisa Cooper of Figure 8 Investment Strategies, a group that brings a multicultural perspective to financial advice and investment management. Lisa describes her purpose as creating positive social change through business. Business is potentially a really powerful tool – it’s all about learning how to use it to create positive change. Figure 8 helps people meet their financial goals, while using their investments to positively impact others.

Lisa tells the story of how a group of nuns helped her start her career, and what it was like getting into investing with purpose at a time when socially conscious business wasn’t a very common idea.
Lisa describes her purpose as creating positive social change through business. Business is potentially a really powerful tool – it’s all about learning how to use it to create positive change. Figure 8 helps people meet their financial goals, while using their investments to positively impact others.
What does it mean for a workplace to be intentionally diverse? And what are the benefits of that for a business or investing group? Lisa shares how diversity has helped Figure 8 refine and achieve their impact.
Some firms use an “asset test” – a minimum asset level for clients of the firm. Figure 8 strives to help everyone with their investments – not just the 1%.
How could a refugee support organization turn into a financial investment group? Lisa tells the story of her past working with refugees, and how bringing those voices onto her team has improved Figure 8’s global perspective.
The risk of not doing something is often not weighed in our decision-making process. We think, “what if I do this and I fail?” without considering the negative impact of not trying at all. Lisa shares some words of inspiration for people starting out on a new business, project or enterprise.
To learn more about Figure 8, go to https://figure8investing.com.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of impact investing to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

5/22/18 5/22/18

HPP Episode 43 - Shaping Your Legacy with Tom Ziglar

Kevin sits down for a rich and inspiring conversation with Tom Ziglar, of Ziglar Inc. Tom was the President and CEO of Ziglar until eight years ago, when he began speaking and motivating others to change their lives. Tom and Kevin discuss how to live life on purpose, without regret.

Tom Ziglar sets the bar high. Whenever he interacts with someone, he says, his aim is to help them become the person that God created them to be – the ideal version of themselves. Tom shares his personal journey to find his purpose.
What is the key to not regretting the decisions you’ve made and the things you’ve done in life? Tom says the secret is giving it everything you’ve got, and being aware of the open doors as they come along.
We all experience anxieties and challenges we need to overcome in living our purpose. Zig Ziglar, Tom’s dad, always told his kids: do whatever you want in life, but whatever you do, do it it with 100% integrity and 100% effort. Tom discusses how to take this message and live its truth, and what that meant for him in overcoming his doubts and anxieties around speaking.
We’re all leaving a legacy. The question is, is it by design, or by chance? It’s ordinary to make a choice. It’s a bit extraordinary to make an intentional choice. And it’s extremely extraordinary to make a series of right choices, on a regular basis. Tom discusses your legacy, and how you can make the right choices.
What’s worse than not setting a goal? The answer is a bit surprising – it’s actually worse to set the wrong goal, and achieve it. Tom discusses the importance of defining success for yourself, not according to social expectations or the definitions of others.
You are what you are and where you are becaushttps://www.facebook.com/groups/HigherPurposeCommunity/e of what’s gone into your mind. What’s your input, and how do you control it? You can change what you are and where you are by changing your input.
Find out more about Tom and Ziglar Inc. at www.ziglar.com, and you can reach Tom at tom@ziglar.com.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of designing your legacy to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

Network, Share Ideas, and GrowReady to connect to other purpose powered people like yourself, so you can network, share ideas, and grow together? Join us at in the Higher Purpose Community on Facebook for conversation, extra content, and access to Kevin. If you want to replace ordinary outcomes with extraordinary results, click here to learn more about the Extraordinary Experiment for Business.

5/15/18 5/15/18

HPP Episode 42 - Writing Your Own Story with Cyndee Lake

Cyndee Lake says her purpose is helping other people become their best selves. Cyndee is the Chief Purpose Officer of Blank Page, a company that helps people connect to their purpose through designing meaningful experiences and creating the space to have big conversations. Your purpose defines your priorities, and your priorities determine what actions you actually take. Cyndee and Kevin unpack the philosophy behind Blank Page.How do we give the very substantial amount of time we spend at work meaning? Cyndee shares her story of changing paths, from climbing the corporate ladder and seeking success through traditional routes, to realizing that a purposeful life means helping others.Blank page helps people write their own stories, their own ways. We all have the permission to turn the page and craft a story that has meaning, that we’re excited about – Cyndee talks about how empowering it can be for people to reclaim authorship of their own story.Do you think just six words could change your approach to your work? Cyndee shares the six words that she sees as guiding her in helping people become their best selves and be more purpose-centred in their work and lives.Your purpose, whether you like it or not, drives the decisions and choices that you make every day. Whether you’re owning that and making it a public, visible statement, it’s there somewhere. It’s reflected in how you choose to show up and how you choose to lead your organization. It may even show up in the work you choose to prioritize. By allowing yourself to own that, it will give you and your team more choice in how you choose to do great work.The extraordinary is within the reach of all of us, and it’s often by doing something ordinary with just a slightly different focus that we achieve that. Cyndee offers advice to business leaders and owners who are pondering how to better integrate their personal and professional purpose.Cyndee discusses the links between leadership, listening, compassion, and care. How can leaders harness the power of listening to help the people we serve become more inspired and engaged?If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of writing your own story to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@kevindmonroe.comBring Something Extraordinary to Your BusinessIf you have or work for a company, and you want to develop your leadership team, inspire your employees or find new ways to delight your customers, then I invite you to learn about the Extraordinary Experiment for Business.

5/8/18 5/8/18

HPP Episode 41 - Find a Way to Say Yes With James Boettcher

When James Boettcher was just starting out as a young entrepreneur, the new business he had just bought burned to the ground right before opening day – after he had already invested all of his loan money in renovations. That was Fiasco Gelato, a now-thriving purpose-driven enterprise. James explains how he persevered to bring Fiasco to where it is today, and the benefits of Fiasco’s flexible and humanistic workplace culture.

James says Fiasco Gelato isn’t really a gelato company, even though they do make delicious desserts. Kevin and James discuss purpose and how entrepreneurs can build something bigger than themselves for their communities.
It’s the little things that matter in creating a purposeful workplace culture – and you never know what little thing is going to matter most, to whom, when. James shares some of the not-so-little things that Fiasco Gelato does, from providing every employee with free lunch every day, to running a breakfast program for schoolchildren in the community, to simply making sure the employees have good coffee to drink!
Have you ever heard of a business where employees are free to leave at any time if something comes up in their personal lives? What about a business where employees still get paid, even if they go travelling in Europe for six weeks? Kevin and James discuss how employees are treated differently at Fiasco, and how a flexible and understanding philosophy allows workers and enterprise to thrive together.
James has a saying – “find a way to yes.” People often find reasons not to do things, or reasons why things are impossible. James says that we need to focus on finding a way we can say yes instead.
“Workplace culture” is a buzzword these days – but what does it mean? James says it is the DNA of your organization – what your organization does when no one is looking. He shares some of the specific things Fiasco does differently.
For more information about Fiasco or to hear more from James, follow @jamesboettcher on Twitter, @fiascogelato on Instagram, or visit www.fiascogelato.ca.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of innovative workplace culture to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

5/1/18 5/1/18

HPP Episode 40 - Inside Look at the Profiles of Purpose in Business

Forty episodes, that’s nine months of podcasting - it’s been quite a journey! Kevin talks about some of the biggest things he’s learned along the way, first among those is that if he had waited for clarity before starting the podcast, he’d never have started it! Join Kevin for some heart-touching stories from his listeners, and also for a sneak peek of what’s coming in the next few weeks.

You can’t steer a parked car. If you’ve been listening to the podcast, you’ve heard Kevin say it over and over again. In fact, the Higher Purpose Podcast is living, breathing proof of it. It’s action that brings clarity.
Our focus the last few weeks has been on the Profiles of Purpose in Business. We set out to interview 12 different business leaders who are living and working with purpose. Kevin reveals some of the most impactful episodes he’s done so far, starting with Gary Adamson.
Gary and Kevin delved into the meaning and actualization of transformation. It’s one of the most profound things we can experience, and not often something you expect to see in your workplace. In fact, companies around the globe are transforming into a force for change. Kevin shares how it’s happening.
This podcast is a vehicle for connection, conversation, innovation, and action. Kevin shares some touching stories of the people he’s met since starting, and how his listeners and fans have connected with each other in surprising ways.
Kevin lists some of the upcoming episodes in the Profiles of Purpose in Business and the stellar guests that are lined up. Make sure to make a note of the episodes and check back! (Or head over to the websitewhere you can be notified automatically!)

Have you missed any of the Profiles of Purpose Episodes? Listen to them all on Kevin’s site!

4/24/18 4/24/18

HPP Episode 39 - Zingerman's and Beyond with Ari Weinzweig

Ari Weinzweig opened Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor, Michigan 36 years ago with one business partner and 2 employees. Now Zingerman’s has grown to include 700 employees, the original deli, a bakery, a candy manufactory, a Korean restaurant, a coffee company, a roadhouse, a mail order company, and a leadership training enterprise. Kevin sits down to talk to Ari about the special culture and philosophy at Zingerman’s that has allowed the enterprise to thrive.

What is purpose, and what does it mean to start a purpose-driven business? The answer is simple, really. When you set out to be really good at something, provide a great experience, and take care of people, you’re already engaged in purposeful work.
Modern economic theory normally says that people will always act in self-interest, but it doesn’t have to be like that – in fact, mutual aid might be better for your business and for your soul! Ari talks about the idea of mutual aid and how Zingerman’s incorporates this approach into how they do business.
People who have hope perform better and are happier than those without. How can you can foster hope and train people to have hope in your business? Ari talks about the 6 things that are necessary to have and encourage hope.
How do you define success? Ari talks about success as owning your own life and coming closer to living your vision of your life.
Want to see Zingerman’s in action? Watch the short documentary “What is Zingerman’s Anyway?”
You can hear more from Ari by reading his series of books about management and leadership, including his most recent book, The Power of Beliefs in Business.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of mutual aid and fostering hope to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com

Network, Share Ideas, and GrowReady to connect to other purpose powered people like yourself, so you can network, share ideas, and grow together? Join us at the Higher Purpose Community on Facebook for conversation, extra content, and access to Kevin.

4/17/18 4/17/18

HPP Episode 38 - Social Enterprise with Russ Stoddard

Kevin sits down with Russ Stoddard, founder of Oliver Russell, a consulting business that is all about creating social and environmental impact. Oliver Russell focuses on four core values: social responsibility, creativity, collaboration, and moving forward by embracing change.

The world is starting to change for the better as more and more people become aware of social and environmental issues. Kevin sits down with Russ to talk about the role of business in making the world a better place.
Have you ever heard the claim that business and environmental responsibility are incompatible? Well, it’s just not true – Oliver Russell is a public benefit corporation that creates social benefit in the same way that you might create financial profit. Russ explains how this category of company creates new forms of social and legal accountability in business.
It’s not about being the best company in the world – it’s about being the type of company that creates the best change for the world. From Patagonia to Ben & Jerry’s, companies all over the world are changing their corporate governance to be more socially accountable.
What happens when you make financial profit a by-product, and not the central goal, of being in business? Russ talks about the importance of doing good in defining your purpose.
We can define purpose in different ways – mastery of skills, serving the community, or helping someone beyond yourself. Once you’ve experienced purpose in a job that provides more than a paycheck, you’ll never go back.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of social and environmental consciousness to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

Network, Share Ideas, and GrowReady to connect to other purpose powered people like yourself, so you can network, share ideas, and grow together? Join us in the Higher Purpose Community on Facebook for conversation, extra content, and access to Kevin. You can also download the Purpose Manifesto if you're looking for a wakeup call about being aligned with your purpose at work as well as in your life.

4/10/18 4/10/18

HPP Episode 37 - Story Driven with Bernadette Jiwa

Sometimes we spend so much time comparing ourselves to others that we forget to emphasize what we’re contributing to the world through our business. Kevin talks to author and branding expert Bernadette Jiwa about story-driven branding and the importance of communicating your personal story to the people you want to reach.

It’s a controversial idea to challenge the importance of competition in business. But Bernadette says that too many people and companies fail to live up to their potential because they fall into the comparison trap. You don’t need to compete when you know who you are – Bernadette explains how to move your focus from competing to contributing.
When we compete, we become focused on the competitive landscape, rather than on the needs of our communities and customers. Your business was founded on a need – what can you contribute, and what makes you great?
Every company is either competition-driven, or story-driven. Bernadette explains the difference, and how you can use it to improve the resonance of your message.
You already have a story – everyone does. It’s how you interpret it and use it that is the key to your success. Bernadette shares the 5 steps to create and communicate a story-driven message.
Bernadette explains that resonance is the key to long-term success. What does it mean to have cultural resonance, and how can you tell your story in order to resonate with your audience?
To win a free copy of Bernadette’s new book Story Driven, tweet Kevin @kevin_monroe with the hashtag #storydriven.
Download the Story Driven Framework here: story-driven-framework
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the benefits of brand storytelling to your enterprise, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

4/3/18 4/3/18

HPP Episode 36 - Cultivating Joy with Rich Sheridan

Why is joy elusive to so many people, especially at work? Have you ever thought about joy as a business value? Kevin talks to Rich Sheridan about his new book Joy, Inc., and about how to create a radically different kind of workplace culture based on destroying fear and fostering dignity, respect and joy.

How can we cultivate joy in the workplace? What is the opposite of joy? Rich explains the most damaging – but widespread – managerial strategy that may be harming your business.
Every year, thousands of people visit Rich’s company Menlo for tours in order to witness the unconventionally joyful workplace culture they’ve created. In this episode, Kevin and Rich take a virtual tour, discussing the unique and innovative ways Menlo has found to foster joy and reverse worker disengagement.
Have you ever given a job interview where there were no questions, and no references to resumés? What about a job interview where your task was to get a competing candidate a second interview? Rich shares a few things that his software company, Menlo, does very differently than most other companies.
Who do you serve, and what does delight look like for them? Joy is taking the work of our heart, our hands and our minds, and serving others. There is also tangible business value to joy – it leads to greater productivity, greater quality, and greater outcomes.
It’s one thing to have a mission statement – a well-defined purpose that you can put on a poster and hang on the wall. That’s important. Rich discusses the importance of going a step further, and how to tie your daily actions and infrastructure back to your fundamental purpose.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the insights and benefits of joy to your workplace, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

Get Inspired by PurposeIf you want to take the leap from being inspired by purpose to being POWERED by purpose, then you should download the Purpose Manifesto. The Manifesto is a call to action - a challenge to live and work in alignment with your purpose. See the results you know are possible.

3/27/18 3/27/18

HPP Episode 35 - Transformational Travel with Jake Haupert

While we may embrace the quest for progress and improvement in our working lives as a heroic journey, many of us view travel itself as a time for leisure. In this episode, Kevin and guest Jake Haupert from the Transformational Travel Council and Explorer-X discuss the power of travel to bring greater purpose, passion, and meaning to our business pursuits and lives.Listen to the full episode now, or subscribe on iTunes!

What’s more important to you – where you’re headed, or how you’re getting there? Jake tells Kevin how his personal history and passion for exploration fuel his mission to deliver meaningful travel experiences to his clients - and disrupt the industry in the process.
We may think that integrating purpose into business is easier in some industries than others, but the fact is that purpose can create benefits anywhere that it’s applied. What’s more, that purpose may be closer than you’d think. By looking to the immemorial roots of travel as a vehicle for personal evolution, Jake and the Transformational Travel Council have unearthed a profound new perspective from inside the history of the industry itself, unleashing a movement in the process.
Whether in work or play, intentionality is the key to meaningful undertakings. What do you want to get out of your trip? This is the question Jake asks his clients, but it’s also one that he poses to himself as an entrepreneur. Knowing what we’re searching for is the first step to knowing how to find it.
As a commercial enterprise, the Transformational Travel Council is driven both by altruism and success. Together, purpose and performance are a potent combination, catalyzing the delivery of products and services that are both meaningful and profitable.
Turning your passion into a business can seem like a daunting journey in its own right, but in Jake’s view, the important thing is to meet that challenge with the right tools and mindset. Even the best of plans will have their ups and downs, but purpose can sustain you through those challenging times. As Jake says, purpose is the fire that lights up the world.
If you or someone you know is interested in bringing the insights and benefits of transformational travel to your workplace, let us know! Email Kevin at kevin@higherpurposepodcast.com.

3/20/18 3/20/18

HPP Episode 34 - Flourishing in Business with Gabriel Grant

Gabriel Grant graduated from Yale with a Ph.D., so it might surprise you a bit to learn that his purpose in life is using research to help create a world where all life flourishes together from people experiencing their lives as a calling. What does that mean, and how do YOU do it? Find out in today’s episode. It’s an insightful, inspirational boost you don’t want to miss.Listen to the episode now, or subscribe on iTunes!

Business is a social construct, an idea around how we organize ourselves. According to Gabriel, there are three scales of flourishing. There’s the individual level, a business level, and a macro level. When you find a way to flourish in each, you create sustainability for your business, and beyond that, how your business can contribute to the greater world.
One of the papers Gabriel published on the emergence of purpose caught Kevin’s eye, and he had to know: what is Gabriel’s definition of purpose. His take on it might surprise you given that he’s a very analytical researcher, and he breaks it down into three major dimensions: internal motivation, it’s engaged; it’s prosocial.
Are Millennials the ME or the WE generation? Gabriel shares his own trouble with those labels, but more importantly, how they affect a business’s ability to flourish. His discovery showed that it’s not a problem with just him; it’s cultural. His findings led him to believe that we are on the brink of a purpose revolution.
Gabriel has noticed a trend of people seeing their work as their purpose, and he points out astutely that we are all at different places in our purpose path. From the person who’s just waking up to the need for purpose to the one who’s well on their way, his insights will help you no matter where you are. Have YOU had your purpose awakening?
If you want a tangible example, Gabriel has one for you: Whole Foods circa 2010. They had a radical way of looking at purpose for their employees, and it might make you uncomfortable. Who wants to allow their employees to co-opt their business to fulfill their own purposes? Amazing but true, and Gabriel explains how it worked.

Interested in designing the future of your business, increasing your profitability and employee inspiration, and becoming purpose-powered? Sign up for a FREE laser coaching call with Kevin and get unstuck with where you are in your business.

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