Spark Your Power: Ignite Career Success, Purpose and Joy – Details, episodes & analysis

Introduction: Today, we're revisiting a conversation with Shelley Paxton, who first joined us three years ago in 2020 to share her transformative journey from corporate executive to Chief Soul Officer of her own life. Shelley's story of leaving her role as Chief Marketing Officer of Harley Davidson to embark on a "Soulbatical" inspired many of our listeners. Now, we're catching up with Shelley to see how her journey has evolved and what new insights she has to share.

About Our Guest: Shelley Paxton, author of "Soulbatical: A Corporate Rebel's Guide to Finding Your Best Life," has continued to redefine success on her terms. Since our last conversation, Shelley's work has evolved, but the foundation remains the same: living authentically and empowering others to do the same.

In This Episode:

• Reflections on the Past: Shelley shares her thoughts on listening to our previous conversation and how her message and mission have stood the test of time.
• Navigating Challenges: 2022 brought personal health challenges for Shelley, offering her a second wake-up call and reinforcing the importance of health and energy as her superpower.
• Evolving Work: Shelley discusses the shift in her business focus towards keynote speaking, emphasizing the intersection where soul meets success.
• The Definition of Successful: Shelley introduces her definition of "successful" - courageously defining success on your terms, aligned with your truth and what feels fulfilling from the inside out.
• Response from Corporate Groups: Shelley shares the positive reception her message has received in corporate environments, highlighting a growing recognition of the need for a new approach to success and leadership.

Conclusion: Shelley Paxton's journey continues to inspire and challenge us to consider what success truly means. Her focus on where soul meets success invites us all to redefine our own paths, ensuring they align with our deepest truths and desires. Shelley's story is a powerful reminder that the journey of self-discovery and living authentically is ongoing, filled with lessons and opportunities for growth.

Call to Action: If Shelley's update has sparked something in you, we encourage you to explore what where soul meets success means in your own life. Remember, it's never too late to redefine your path and pursue a life that resonates with your authentic self.

Book a What's Next Consultation with Jen to discover your best next step here.

Where to Find Shelley: Learn about Shelley's current projects, speaking engagements, and how to connect with her.

• Visit Shelley Paxton's Website for more information about her work, speaking engagements, and how to connect.
• Read Shelley's book, "Soulbatical: A Corporate Rebel's Guide to Finding Your Best Life," for a deeper dive into her journey and insights.
• Connect with Shelley on LinkedIn and Instagram for regular updates and inspiration.

Thank You for Listening! Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Spark Your Power Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who needs to hear Shelley's inspiring story. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Until next time, keep sparking your power!

About Our Guest: Shelley Paxton, the former Chief Marketing Officer of Harley Davidson, embarked on a journey that transformed her life and career. After years of climbing the corporate ladder, Shelley realized she was living someone else's dream. This realization led her to take a bold step away from her corporate career to find her true calling. Today, Shelley is an entrepreneur, author, and the Chief Soul Officer of her life, on a mission to liberate a billion souls.

In This Episode:

• The Spark Sessions: Jen shares the origin story of the podcast and its mission to inspire women to rediscover their spark and redefine success.
• Shelley's Journey: From the high-pressure world of corporate marketing to a soul-searching sabbatical that led to profound personal and professional transformation.
• Soulbatical: Shelley introduces us to the concept of "Soulbatical" - a journey of self-discovery, authenticity, and living in alignment with one's true purpose.
• Redefining Success: How Shelley's definition of success evolved from external achievements to internal fulfillment and making an impact.
• The Power of Authenticity: The importance of living and leading with authenticity, courage, and purpose.
• Challenges and Insights: Shelley shares the challenges she faced during her transition and the insights she gained about herself and her purpose.
• Advice for Listeners: Practical tips for anyone feeling stuck in their career or life, seeking to make a change but unsure where to start.
• Shelley's Current Work: An overview of Shelley's current projects, including her book, podcast, and her mission to liberate a billion souls.

Conclusion: Shelley Paxton's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to pursue a life that truly lights you up. Her journey from corporate executive to Chief Soul Officer of her own life inspires us to question our own definitions of success and to courageously pursue our authentic path.

Call to Action: If Shelley's story sparked something in you, we encourage you to take the first step towards your own transformation. Remember, the journey to rediscovering your spark starts with a single step. Are you ready to take it?  Book a call with Jen to explore what's next for you.

https://ClickheretobookwithJen.as.me/whatsnextconsultation

Resources:

• Learn more about Shelley Paxton and Soulbatical: https://www.shelleypaxton.com/
• Read Shelley's book, "Soulbatical: A Corporate Rebel's Guide to Finding Your Best Life" https://www.shelleypaxton.com/books
• Listen to Shelley's podcast for more inspiration and insights on living authentically. https://www.shelleypaxton.com/podcast

Thank You for Listening! Thank you for joining us on this episode of the Spark Your Power Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who needs to hear Shelley's inspiring story. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Until next time, keep sparking your power!

What would you do if you could experience passion and joy in your life?

 

Those feelings are available to you when you find your life’s purpose. In today’s episode, Jen shares the 3 simple steps that will help you find your life’s purpose so you can experience passion, flow, and joy in your everyday life.

Are you ready to find your spark? Book a free 30 minute consultation with Jen!

If you are a woman who has ever found herself wondering: 

 

• “How am I supposed to know what to do?” 
• “What is next in my life?”
• “I thought this job was what I wanted - how do I figure out what I really want to do?”

 

Then episode 2 of the Spark Your Power podcast is for you! Host, Jen Spainhour will share the 3 questions to ask that will change your life and help you find your passion, purpose, and joy.

Are you ready to find your spark? Book a free 30 minute consultation with Jen!

Do you believe that you can find passion in your job again? Shelley Haus, our first guest of Spark Your Power podcast, shares her story of losing her spark during her career and how she made her final and most meaningful career pivot. 

 

In this episode you will learn:

• How your career path is related to your self-discovery;

• The key ingredients for success and growth in life and your career;

• Why workplace relationships are important;

• And finally, how to be proactive in the pursuit of your dreams

[07:33] Learning lessons from evolving career paths. 

[19:05] Why timing is everything. 

[24:00] What happens when you lose sight of yourself. 

[26:02] The decision that changed everything. 

[34:20] How to reinvent yourself in your career 

[39:43] Impactful leadership moments. 

[45:07] What to do when you know you were made for this job. 

[52:40] Having a solid purpose. 

Please join us in celebrating the life of Shelley Haus, former CMO of Ulta Beauty by donating to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation in Shelley’s name: https://cholangiocarcinoma.org/shelley-haus/

Are you ready to find your spark? Book a free 30 minute consultation with Jen!

Episode Synopsis: Welcome to a very special episode of the Spark Your Power podcast, where we celebrate Leap Day 2024 by diving into the transformative stories of women who dared to leap towards their dreams. Host Jen Spainhour brings together a panel of remarkable women, each sharing their unique journey of embracing change, overcoming challenges, and pursuing work that fills their lives with joy, purpose, and fulfillment. These stories are not just about career changes; they're about life changes. They remind us that it's never too late to step into a life that truly lights you up. So, whether you're contemplating a leap of your own or just need a dose of inspiration, this episode is for you.

Key Learning Points:

1. The Catalyst for Change: Each woman's story highlights a pivotal moment that propelled them to take the leap. Whether it was dissatisfaction with corporate life, a desire for more meaningful work, or a personal life event, these moments served as catalysts for reevaluation and change. The key takeaway is that listening to your inner voice and acknowledging the need for change is the first step towards a more fulfilling life.

2. Overcoming Fear and Embracing Risk: A common theme among our panelists is the fear and uncertainty that accompany major life changes. However, their stories illustrate the importance of facing these fears head-on and the power of taking calculated risks. Embracing the unknown, with careful planning and a strong support system, can lead to incredible growth and opportunities.

3. The Importance of Authenticity and Personal Branding: Jennie Raymer's journey underscores the significance of building a personal brand and being true to oneself. In a world where corporate identities can overshadow individuality, carving out a personal identity and leveraging platforms like podcasting can be instrumental in connecting with others and building a career that aligns with one's passions and values.

4. Financial Planning and Mindset for Success: Arielle Deane's story emphasizes the importance of financial preparedness and a positive mindset when making a career leap. Ensuring financial stability and investing in personal development and coaching can provide the confidence and resources needed to transition successfully and make strategic business decisions.

5. Finding Joy and Purpose in Empowerment: Erin Attere and Brenda Meller share how their leaps were not just about personal fulfillment but also about empowering others. Whether through social entrepreneurship or creating platforms for women's voices, their work exemplifies how career satisfaction often comes from making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Conclusion: This episode of Spark Your Power is a testament to the courage, resilience, and determination of women who have dared to redefine success on their own terms. Their leaps of faith remind us that with the right mindset, support, and planning, it's possible to break free from the corporate chains and create work that not only brings joy and fulfillment but also empowers and uplifts others. Let their stories inspire you to consider your own leaps, big or small, and remember: the best time to start moving towards a life you love is now.

Call to Action: Inspired by today's episode? Don't let another day pass without taking a step towards your own leap. Join our email newsletter for more insights, stories, and opportunities to connect with a community of like-minded individuals ready to support you on your journey. Find the link in our show notes and become part of the Spark Your Power movement today.

CLICK HERE to join the Spark Your Power newsletter.

You can find our panel members here:

Brenda Meller: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendameller/

https://www.mellermarketing.com/

Arielle Deane:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/arielledeane/

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-independent-mom/id1678028311

Erin Attere:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-attere-b5b111a/

https://threadsworldwide.com/erinattere

Jennie Raymer:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennie-raymer/

https://www.tfocb.com/host/jennie-raymer

And me, Jen Spainhour:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferspainhour-coaching/

https://www.positionforsuccess.com/

 

Connect with all of us on LinkedIn and mention this podcast.

Remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear these empowering stories. Until next time, keep seeking your spark!

Podcast Show Notes: Spark Your Power with Candice

Episode Synopsis: In this enlightening episode of Spark Your Power, host Jen Spainhour sits down with the multifaceted Candice, a branding strategist and serial entrepreneur with a rich history of career pivots that blend creativity, technology, and business acumen. Candice shares her journey from working in corporate giants like Gap Incorporated and Walt Disney Company to embracing entrepreneurship with her ventures, Wishcraft Workshop and Smitten Creative. Through her story, listeners gain insights into the power of listening, the courage to pivot, and the importance of aligning one’s career with personal values and creativity.

Key Learning Points:

1. The Power of Listening and Asking "Why": Candice emphasizes the importance of deep listening and asking "why" to uncover the real needs behind requests or problems. This skill allowed her to navigate her roles in IT and project management successfully, demonstrating that understanding the core issue often leads to innovative solutions that may not have been initially apparent.

2. The Courage to Pivot and Embrace Change: Candice’s career is a testament to the bravery required to step off the conventional path and explore new opportunities. Her transitions from corporate roles to entrepreneurship highlight the value of following one’s passions and the potential for personal growth and fulfillment in taking risks and venturing into the unknown.

3. Alignment Between Values and Career: A recurring theme in Candice’s journey is the pursuit of work that resonates with her values and allows her to use her creativity and skills in meaningful ways. This alignment leads to a more satisfying and joyful career, underscoring the importance of introspection and being true to oneself in career choices.

 

You can learn more about Candice at:

www.wearesmitten.co

https://www.linkedin.com/in/candiceblansettcummins/

@therayofgray

 

Podcast Episode Synopsis: Cookies with Tiffany

In this episode of the Spark Your Power podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Tiffany Lewis, the Chief Cookie Officer of Cookies with Tiffany. Tiffany shares her inspiring journey of leaving her corporate marketing job to pursue her passion for baking and starting her own cookie business.

Tiffany's love for cookies started when she moved to Columbus, Ohio and began baking cookies to bring to work. She realized the power of food in bringing people together and creating a sense of community. This experience sparked her desire to pursue a career in the culinary industry.

After attending culinary school and working in the entertainment industry for celebrity chefs, Tiffany decided to start her own cookie business, Cookies with Tiffany. The pandemic played a role in fast-tracking her decision, as she lost her job and saw an opportunity to bring comfort and joy to others through her cookies.

Throughout the episode, Tiffany emphasizes the importance of doing thorough research and planning before starting a business. She shares valuable insights on understanding the costs, competition, and target audience. Tiffany also highlights the significance of building a community of entrepreneurs and seeking mentorship to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.

As we delve into Tiffany's journey, she discusses the transition from the corporate world to running her own business. She acknowledges the long hours and the need for self-motivation, but also emphasizes the freedom and control she now has over her career and life.

Tiffany's story is a testament to the power of following your passion and taking calculated risks. She encourages listeners to identify their unique skills and values and use them to create a successful business. Tiffany's ultimate message is to spark your power by being the best version of yourself and sharing your energy and talents with the world.

To learn more about Tiffany and Cookies with Tiffany, visit their website at cookieswithtiffany.com or follow them on Instagram @cookieswithtiffany. You can also find them at local farmer's markets in the Seattle and Bellevue areas.

Join us for this inspiring episode as we explore the journey of a woman who turned her love for cookies into a thriving business and learn valuable lessons on pursuing your passion and creating the career and life you desire.

About Shirley Chock:

Shirley Chock, known as "The Stressbender," is a Tai Chi expert and owner of Aiping Tai Chi. With a bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Chicago, she combines her financial acumen with her mastery of Tai Chi. She is the former U.S. Women’s National Champion for Tai Chi as well as the former Working Mother Magazine’s Working Mother of the Year. Shirley's career in finance flourished as she discovered that Tai Chi was her secret weapon in managing workplace stress and achieving success in senior leadership positions. Taking over Aiping Tai Chi in 2017, she has transformed it into an internationally recognized brand, reaching all seven continents including Antarctica. As the driving force behind the @aipingtaichi social platform, Shirley has cultivated one of the fastest-growing internal martial arts communities on social media with over 200K followers with multiple videos reaching 1-2 million+ views. Her expertise in Tai Chi and stress management has made her a sought-after resource for local and national media. She has been featured in the New York Times, Well + Good, cover page of Connecticut Post, Good Morning CT, and News 8 CT to name a few. In recognition of her influence, New Haven Business Magazine included Shirley Chock in their esteemed Power 25 Class of 2023, acknowledging her as one of the 25 most influential individuals in the New Haven, CT region.   Podcast Episode Synopsis: From Finance to Flow: Shirley Chock Shares the Secret Scroll of Tai Chi

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Shirley Chock, a remarkable individual who made a late career change and found her true calling in Tai Chi. Shirley shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from a successful finance career to becoming the owner of Aiping Tai Chi, a renowned martial arts school.

Shirley's story is a testament to the power of embracing change and being open to unexpected opportunities. She explains how her passion for Chinese martial arts grew alongside her finance career, eventually leading her to become a student and chosen successor of a renowned martial arts master. When her master decided to move to Austin, Shirley faced a pivotal decision: should she let someone else buy the school or continue the legacy herself? She chose the latter, realizing the value and impact Tai Chi had on her life and the potential it had to help others (listen in to learn about the "secret scroll" and how it can apply to you).

Throughout the episode, Shirley highlights the philosophy and mindset behind Tai Chi, emphasizing the importance of finding balance and harmony in all aspects of life. She explains how Tai Chi teaches us to navigate change, deal with conflict, and redirect force by yielding and moving in a different direction. These principles can be applied to our careers, relationships, and personal growth, allowing us to find our center and stay resilient in the face of challenges.

Shirley also discusses the power of intention and action, urging listeners to align their intentions with their actions to achieve their goals. She encourages women to trust their intuition, embrace their unique strengths, and believe in their ability to make a valuable contribution to the world.

As the episode comes to a close, Shirley shares practical advice for setting realistic goals and overcoming self-doubt. She reminds us that limits only exist in our minds and that we have the power to spark our internal power by aligning our mind, breath, body, and intention.

Listeners are invited to connect with Shirley on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, where she shares valuable content and insights on Tai Chi and personal growth.  You can find her here:

aipingtaichi.com
instagram.com/aipingtaichi
tiktok.com/@aipingtaichi
youtube.com/@aipingtaichi

 

Overall, this episode serves as a powerful reminder that change is inevitable, and by embracing it and finding balance within ourselves, we can unlock our true potential and live a more fulfilling life.