Have you ever wanted to feel happier but just didn't know how? Or when you do feel happy, it's temporary and just doesn't seem to last? 

You might feel like you're chasing little slivers of happiness and life is the daily slog that happens in between those moments. 

Well, the good news is it doesn't have to be that way

This week, you'll hear about the ONE concept I learned that fundamentally changed my perspective on what it means to live and to be happy. 

At the end of this episode, you'll learn what we've been getting wrong about happiness, how we're secretly sabotaging ourselves, and what to do about it 

Topics discussed:

• can happiness be a choice? 
• the two most common pitfalls related to happiness 
• the fundamental concept that is at the root of all happiness or unhappiness
• finding more points of control in our lives so we don't feel as helpless 
• re-examining the conscious and unconscious expectations we have for our lives 
• why humans are so uncomfortable with feeling helpless 
• zooming out and using the 35,000 foot perspective to evaluate your life stressors
• what dying patients want you to know about happiness 

Want to feel happier in just 60 minutes? Book a free goal setting strategy session with me HERE.

You'll leave the call with an empowered mindset and a straightforward plan of action so you can move forward with confidence 

Website: luyikathyzhang.com
Instagram: @purposefilter

Has anyone ever told you that you seem to have it all together and that they never would have guessed you struggle with self-doubt from the way your carry yourself? 

Well, that's exactly what my friend and former podcast guest Katrina Mcghee said to me in a recent phone call 

And my immediate thought was "actually, I struggle with CRIPPLING self-doubt!" 

Our discussion was so honest and open and raw that I knew we needed to share it so that you know you're not alone 

That self-doubt comes for all of us, even if the version of ourselves we present to the external world seems supremely confident at all times

This podcast episode was excerpted from a recent Instagram Live between Katrina and I

In this episode we discuss:

• how self-doubt affects our energy and puts us in a hole we need to climb out of
• the interplay between not feeling like you belonged as a child and how self-doubt manifests in our adult lives 
• how we manage self-doubt now when it arises
• who we would be if we totally trusted ourselves 
• the possibility of what life would be like if we believed we were good enough
• bringing more fun, curiosity, play and intention to every aspect of our lives 

If this podcast has helped you in any way, please leave us a rating and write a review on Apple Podcasts and share your favorite episodes with friends! 


Follow @purposefilter on Instagram for more inspirational content to help you overcome what stands between you and a life on your terms 

If you've ever set New Year's resolutions in the past only to break them by the third week of January, then consider this a sign to listen in so you can finally break that old habit for good! 

In this week's episode, we'll uncover FIVE wildly effective ways to make 2023 your BEST. YEAR. EVER! 

Topics discussed:

• the #1 reason why starting the new year off with intention is so effective
• how having a unifying theme to your year will harness your unconscious mind to help you achieve your goals 
• the incredible power of visualization and how to leverage it in any aspect of your life 
• what it means to be in "alignment"
• how taking action alone without guidance can actually hurt your chances of success
• why mastering one task causes a massive ripple effect for everything else in your life 
• the power of asking yourself  "what would I do differently?"
• the uncomfortable imaginary scenario that could fundamentally change the way you live out the next 365 days of your life 

And as mentioned in the episode, I'm giving away 8 FREE (!) personalized mindset and strategy sessions to help you accomplish a specific goal you're working on in 2023.

This is an incredible opportunity to start the year off on the right foot! You'll walk away without those pesky limiting beliefs that were holding you back and step forward with a clear, step-by-step action plan to turn your desires into reality.

It's a limited time offer so click HERE to claim your spot! 

As we wrap up another year, I hope you take some time for restoration and rejuvenation this holiday season

That's why The Purpose Filter podcast is taking a much needed winter break

New episodes return on Wednesday January 11th, 2023!

And as a reminder for the rest of this year, there are no "should"s and there is no "supposed to".

This holiday season, I hope that you get to surround yourself with the people who bring you joy, and I hope that you get some much needed rest.

I hope that you're able to look back at the past 365 days with some clarity and perhaps some gratitude for how far you have come this past year. You've done a lot and there's no pressure to catch up on all your favorite podcasts this holiday season or to not eat what you really want to eat because you're afraid of gaining weight.

Forget about all of that and just live.

If you're looking for some audio content, take a listen to episode 15 titled, Do This One Exercise to End Your Year on a High Note. My husband and I do this every year, and I guarantee you will love completing this exercise with your family as well. 

There's also episodes 16 through 18, the "New Year Purposeful You" series that I did earlier this year to make sure you start off 2023 with intention and purpose.

Finally,  it has been SUCH an honor to be in your ears this year. I hope that you have had as much evolution and growth in your life as I've had in mind creating these episodes for you.

Thank you for trusting me with the precious and valuable resource of your time. 
 
I cannot wait to see what 2023 brings for all of us—more passion, more joy, more meaning, more fun, more contribution, more interviews, and just more LIFE. 

And until then, take care of yourselves and take care of each other. 

Happy holidays, have a wonderful new year, and I will see you on January 11th, 2023!!

You learned last week on episode 62 about the 5 personality subtypes of impostor syndrome, so we’re taking you even deeper and discussing the 5 myths you NEED to know to finally stop feeling like the fraud that you’ve NEVER been 

Topics discussed in this episode:

• refresh of the 5 personality subtypes of impostor syndrome from episode 62
• the 5 myths of impostor syndrome and why people fall into the trap of believing them 
• The one and ONLY difference between people who feel like impostors and people who don’t 
• mastering the ability to tolerate temporary discomfort for long term growth
• the relationship between psychological threats, stereotypes of belonging to any minority group and how it manifests as impostor syndrome 
• real life stories from some of the best and brightest people who also felt like frauds despite their massive success
• changing the narrative and associations of impostor syndrome 

FOLLOW and SUBSCRIBE to the show so you're the first to know when the next episode drops!

If you have a goal you’ve set for 2023, then you’re in luck because I’m opening my calendar up to a few lucky people who are committed to taking ACTION to CREATE the life they truly want.

So follow me on Instagram @purposefilter and keep an eye out to sign up to receive a comprehensive goal setting strategy session that’s valued at $300… for FREE!

Website:  luyikathyzhang.com 

 

How is it that every single time you try something new,  imposter syndrome seems to rear its ugly head? 

Well, maybe because there's actually FIVE different personality subtypes of imposter syndrome!

That's exactly what we'll be discussing in this episode so you can determine exactly which one of these personalities you resonate with the most, what problems are often associated with it and how to shift your mindset so you can stop feeling like a fraud NOW

Topics discussed during this episode:

• brief origin of the term 'imposter syndrome'
• the harmful subconscious effects of calling it a "syndrome" 
• the 5 subtypes of impostor syndrome as popularized by Dr. Valerie Young
• why we relate to imperfect characters in stories or movies 
• reframing mistakes as an integral part of growth rather than a sign that something has gone wrong
• debunking the myth of the "lone wolf" success story 
• Colin Powell's 40/70 rule for decision-making and how to apply it to your life
• untangling your identity and self-worth from external measures of success 

On an upcoming episode, we'll dive deeper into imposter syndrome, the myths behind it, and how to dispel those myths so you feel more confident and empowered in the future

So be sure to FOLLOW and SUBSCRIBE to the show so you're the first to know when the next episode drops!

Follow me on Instagram @purposefilter for more powerful ways to master your mindset and life your best life with the time you have left 

Have something you're struggling with and want a FREE 1:1 mindset coaching session?

Head to luyikathyzhang.com and book a call! 

I'll help you break through a limiting belief that's holding you back and if you're interested, you can learn more about my coaching services at the end 

What's something that has significantly makes us happier, healthier and more fulfilled, that the vast majority of people only do once a year? 

If you guessed gratitude (judging by the title), then you're absolutely RIGHT! 

We already know that gratitude has INCREDIBLE health benefits, like lowering the risk of major depression, generalized anxiety disorder, phobias, nicotine, alcohol, drug dependence, and abuse, not to mention all of the emotional benefits on our mental health as well. 

AND it turns out that what we've been told about how to practice gratitude is actually NOT the best way to get the most out of it 

So if you've always wanted to create a more consistent gratitude practice and you just haven't been able to do it, then this week's episode is a must listen 

Topics discussed in this episode:

• why gratitude matters
• why conventional wisdom about gratitude practices may not be the most effective
• how to create a gratitude practice to maximize the health benefits in the least amount of time 
• the neural circuitry involved in gratitude 
• how our primitive brains are wired to feel negative emotions
• the importance of intention behind our actions
• what it means to "invest" in gratitude
• research studies and evidence supporting gratitude as a fundamental practice in our everyday life 
• how dying patients find ways to be grateful even in the face of unimaginable circumstances 

As always, thank you for supporting this podcast and we'd love to hear from you! Leave us a rating and review on Apple podcasts, and share this episode with a friend 

If you’re a professional woman of color who wants to break old limiting patterns, feel empowered and discover your true potential, then click here to book a free coaching consultation! 

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Have you ever tried to quit a bad habit yet failed to make a lasting change? 

You were motivated, you knew what was at stake and yet you went back to your old ways faster than you could say "whiplash"

What if I told you there something you could do that would EXPONENTIALLY increase your chances of achieving any goal you set for yourself? 

Well, that's exactly what this week's episode is all about! Tune in this week to learn how to leverage the power of this lesson and use it in your own life. 

Because while achieving goals are great, it's about SO much more than that. 

It's about creating an incredible life that you're proud of and seeing what you as a human being are capable of. Because, look, we're only here for a short amount of time, so we might as well make the most of it, right?


Topics discussed in this episode:

• an emotional story about a young man and a mother's duty to her child 
• how to use the human need for connection and community to help you crush your goals
• why feats of "hysterical strength" like lifting a car off a person can occur 
• how to rid yourself of limiting beliefs and bad habits by using the pain-pleasure continuum of creating lasting change 
• a powerful exercise to help you visualize your future and the consequences of maintaining the status quo versus making a necessary change 

If you’re a professional woman of color who wants to break old limiting patterns, feel empowered and go from where you are to where you want to be, then click on my website luyikathyzhang.com to book a free coaching consultation! 

I'll be your guide every step of the way on the journey to from "stuck" to your most empowered, authentic self.

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now."  
- Chinese proverb

Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram

How is it that two people who start out under the exact same circumstances can get to the end of their life in totally different places?

How does one radically transform their life while the other stays exactly where they are? The answer, as with most things is MINDSET. 

In this week's episode I share with you the 4 words that could be the difference between being chained to your past or breaking free and creating your own destiny. 
 

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Profound insights and lessons learned from personal development seminars
• The 4 word phrase that will shift the way you see your past, present and future
• The relationship between thoughts, limiting beliefs, feelings and your true inner self
• How to unlearn destructive thought patterns 
• Harnessing human potential to walk on 2000 degree hot coals 
• The innate strength and power every human being possesses within
• The easiest and fastest way to close the gap between your present self and your future goals 

If you’re a professional woman of color who wants to break old limiting patterns, feel empowered and go from where you are to where you want to be, then click on my website luyikathyzhang.com to book a free coaching consultation! I'll be your guide every step of the way on the journey to your most authentic self. 

"The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now."  
- Chinese proverb

Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram

Picture this: you spot an attractive person across the room and you start walking over to introduce yourself but they panic sets in and you awkwardly run away to hide 

Or you finally muster up the courage to ask your boss for a promotion, only to talk yourself out of it because "what's the point in even asking?"

Sound familiar? 

If you've ever been on the brink of putting yourself out there, whether in pursuit of a romantic partner, a job opportunity or even a discount on your next purchase, this episode is for you!

You'll hear several examples from life, business and healthcare to hammer home the life-changing magic of asking a single question.  

Because it only takes ONE question, ONE extra ounce of courage and effort to push past discomfort and RADICALLY change your life. 

Take it from me: my dying patients wish they had the opportunity that you and I still have—one that is too often taken for granted. 

It's time to be bold and ask for what you want and need—tune in this week to hear how! 

Topics discussed in this episode:

• the simple magic of the phrase "If you dont ask, the answer is NO"
• real world examples of how asking for what you want can get you a life saving organ or help start a billion dollar businesses 
• how asking the right question can actually save you money
• how one bold act of courage can change your entire life
• the 3-2-1 rule to help you take action when you're scared
• the power of word choice and phrasing when asking questions
• how to ask questions that maximize your probability for a favorable response
•  regrets of the dying 

If you've been positively impacted by this podcast and want to take your growth to the next level by working 1 on 1 with me as your coach, book a free call here! 

Together we'll help you break through the obstacles holding you back, change those deeply ingrained behaviors and thought patterns, and help you unlock your innate potential and achieve your goals as the best version of you

Enjoying the show? Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts 

Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram.

Please note that this episode carries a trigger warning, as it covers topics related to death and suicide. Please listen with care.

Whether or not we are aware of them, mental health issues exist within our families, workplaces, and communities and have a profound impact on nearly everyone we know.

Today, I'm opening up and being completely vulnerable as I share my own mental health story in the hopes that it will shed some light on these issues, normalize the experiences that so many of us are having, and perhaps most importantly, help someone who is struggling to feel a little less alone.

There were some hard-earned lessons I learned during the early days of navigating the trauma and loss of COVID. And I want to share those life-saving lessons with you in this episode, so you too can feel comfortable asking for help when you need it.

Just remember, it’s OKAY not to be okay! 

In fact, it's possible for you to turn your worst pain into your greatest source of power. Tuning in today could be the first step.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The soul-sucking demands of being an early career physician
• Why it’s okay to not be okay
• Tragic stories from the early days of COVID in New York
• The importance of seeking professional mental health support
• Why your emotional well-being should be a top priority
• Allowing yourself to feel your feelings
• A reminder that you are not alone
• How to turn your deepest pain into a source of power
• The immense value of therapy and coaching

Want to invest in your future? Head to luyikathyzhang.com to book a free consultation call to help you live on YOUR terms, not anyone else's. 

Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram.

Head to Apple Podcasts to hear more episodes!

How would you like to be remembered? What are the stories that you want people to tell about you once you’re gone?


Answering these questions has everything to do with the legacy you’d like to leave behind. By knowing and understanding this, you can reverse engineer your life so that you are living with purpose and passion today.

We can all name someone who has left a profound and lasting impression on us, even long after they are gone. Whether it’s someone you knew personally or a famous figure in history, what influential people have in common the most isn’t their achievements, wealth, or physical characteristics, it’s the impact they have on the lives of others.

It might sound cliché, but today could be the first day of the rest of your life! 
Only YOU can write the stories that people will tell about you for years to come.

To ensure that who you are now more closely aligns with the person that you aspire to be, tune in for some guidance and actionable strategies from Dr. Kathy Zhang!

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Knowing where we come from to visualize where we're going
• Why money isn’t everything
• Ways to gain perspective on what truly matters
• How death forces us to reflect on life
• Why storytelling is the essence of human communication and connection 
• Why looking backward is essential to moving forward
• The stories people will tell about you when you’re gone
• What would you say about yourself if the “past you” died today?
• How to change the trajectory of your life right now!

If you want to invest in your future and rewrite the story of the rest of your life, head to luyikathyzhang.com to book a free consultation call!

Connect with Dr. Kathy Zhang on Facebook and Instagram

Imagine what life would be like if you didn’t care about the opinions of others. If the thought of being judged by family, friends or colleagues didn’t make you pause and factor into your decision-making. Picture yourself wearing the clothes you feel comfortable in, and going after the job you are passionate about. If this sounds like a dream, then you’re in the right place.

People pleasing is the topic of today’s episode, and Dr. Kathy Zhang opens the conversation with a thought-provoking prompt from Oprah: “As we move into fall… Can you leave behind anything that's no longer beneficial to you and the life that you want to live? What would moving on from this one thing free me to do?”

The episode discusses the negative consequences of losing yourself in the perceptions of others and on the reasons we fall into the trap of people pleasing, including how to stop it.

It’s time to reclaim your power and start living YOUR life with a “I don’t give a fuck energy.” Tune in to hear how you can get started!

Topics discussed in this episode:

• A prompt for fall from Oprah
• The viral TikTok trend that helped inspire this episode
• Downfalls of caring about what others think and the desire for approval
• Letting the fear of others’ judgment amplify your own anxieties
• Taking the easy route and avoiding judgment
• Kathy gives examples of letting others’ opinions change her
• Defending yourself and your desires
• Questions to ask yourself if you feel the urge to people please
• What could you do if you didn't care what other people thought about you?

Dr.  Zhang is opening up a few 1 on 1 coaching spots for anyone feeling stuck and who wants to rediscover their purpose and passion. If you’re wanting to invest in yourself and your future, head to luyikathyzhang.com to book a free consultation!

Connect with Dr. Kathy on Facebook and Instagram.

There are so many aspects to living a life of fulfillment, but what if there was one area of your life you could improve that would spill over into all others? 

Sounds like a bit of a life hack. Well, it is, and we want to share it with you on today’s episode.

Is your sex life fulfilling, or are you just going through the motions?

The empowerment you get from knowing what you want in the bedroom and being able to speak up and ask for it, or the ability to say no, when no means no, is a crucial element to all aspects of your life. 

If you can stand up for yourself in these very vulnerable and intimate situations, the empowerment that happens outside of the bedroom will come naturally.

This all starts with you and your willingness to make a decision to uplevel your life and stop living on autopilot.

Joining us on this episode is Dr. Kelly Casperson. She is a urologist, author, and host of the incredibly successful and popular podcast, You Are Not Broken. 

Dr. Casperson’s mission is to empower women to live their best love lives, combining the power of mind, body, and relationships to joyously break down the societal barriers that are keeping women from awakening into their best intimate experience. 

Tune in to hear how you can create more joy and abundance in your life!

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Dr. Casperson’s experience in a largely male dominated field
• What is it like becoming the first doctor in the family
• Bad advice Dr. Casperson received when she was becoming a doctor
• Giving yourself permission to step into your power
• Why your voice is important and unique
• What was Dr. Casperson’s turning point to change the way she lived her life
• Applying dying lessons now while we are living
• Why women feel their pleasure and themselves are not a priority
• How to move past shame and guilt surrounding sex and beyond 
• Going from being pulled along for the ride to getting into the driver seat
• How young people should re-frame purpose
• Sharing the gift of awareness and presence 

Check out Dr. Kelly Casperson’s podcast, You Are Not Broken, on Apple Podcasts!

Dr. Kathy Zhang is opening up a few 1 on 1 coaching spots for anyone feeling stuck and who wants to rediscover their purpose and passion. If you’re wanting to invest in yourself and your future, head to luyikathyzhang.com to book a free consultation!

Connect with Dr. Kathy Zhang on Facebook and Instagram.

When someone compliments you, do you receive it with a thank you, or do you go on to diminish the compliment to make everyone feel more comfortable? Do you apologize for things that aren’t your responsibility?

This is a common societal issue, especially for women. We’ve been taught that it is a bad thing to take up space in the world, and putting yourself last is praised. This whole structure is upside down and needs to be corrected, because every single person deserves to have space and to be heard, and we here at The Purpose Filter want to make that happen!

In today’s episode, Dr. Kathy Zhang shares her experience growing up and being taught that being a quiet, subservient, good girl, is the way to gain people’s affections. This carried on into her adult life where she constantly put herself second thinking it was the right thing to do. Not only did it harm her, but it harmed her ability to give proper care to her patients.

After realizing this, Dr. Kathy Zhang underwent extensive therapy and self work to correct years of conditioning telling her she doesn’t deserve to come first. Now, she has created healthy boundaries for herself where she has created a life where she comes first, within reason, and she wants to share how you can do this for yourself too.

Tune in to hear 7 actionable strategies you can start using today that will help you overcome your fear of taking up space and stand in your power. You deserve it, so join us and learn how you can claim it!

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Kathy’s history of not advocating for herself
• How we’ve been socialized to not take up space – especially women
• The downside of not taking up space
• When to yield your time
• Kathy’s graphic account of a time she didn’t advocate for herself and her health
• 7 actionable strategies you can use to take up space today!

Dr. Kathy Zhang is opening up a few 1 on 1 coaching spots for anyone feeling stuck and who wants to rediscover their purpose and passion. If you’re wanting to invest in yourself and your future, head to luyikathyzhang.com to book a free consultation!

Connect with Dr. Kathy Zhang on Facebook and Instagram.

Two things can be true at the same time, like a half full or half empty water glass.


I've seen my fair share of duality play out in palliative care where immense suffering can exist side by side with infinite love. And you can nurture this exact duality in your own life can help nurture more inner peace and comfort.

This is the paradox that, if mastered, could totally change the your experience of life.  

It's a muscle that can be strengthened just by practicing changing your perspective about your situation and recognizing where there are opposing forces in different aspects of your life, so you can hold space for all of it.

Tune in to hear how you can strengthen your ability to hold two opposing ideas to create more fulfillment in your life. 

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The concept of being able to hold two opposite ideas at the same time
• What is duality
• Human nature’s need to compartmentalize things
• Duality of emotions in major events
• The importance of perspective when dealing with duality
• Can you hold space for two opposing forces?
• Action item for the week!

I'm opening up a few 1 on 1 coaching spots for anyone feeling stuck and who wants to rediscover their purpose and passion. If you’re wanting to invest in yourself and your future, head to luyikathyzhang.com to book a free consultation!

Connect with me on Facebook and Instagram.

"He did the crossword puzzle in INK." 

The sentence above doesn't make sense now, but once you listen to the episode, you'll understand why it's such a profound sentence and the inspiration for this week's message 

Most of us spend our days hiding our true nature because we're afraid of judgment or shame. We believe we won't fit in or be accepted by our peers. 

It seems easy, but we make it tough on ourselves because we are scared to uncover our truths, but the rewards are so worth it.

What if I told you that being your most authentic self is actually the biggest gift you can give others?

You'll hear how one dying patient's preferred writing utensil to complete the New York Times crossword puzzle was the best gift he could have given his family—the gift of knowing oneself.

Tune in today to learn how you can start to live in alignment and what your life could look like when you do.


Connect with Dr. Kathy Zhang on Instagram

Join The Purpose Filter podcast Listener Facebook group to connect with other growth-minded individuals who intend on soaking up everything life has to offer, and who wish to live an extraordinary life of purpose and impact as the person they most want to be 

We all have scars. 

Sometimes there’s an exciting story, or perhaps they’re from something a little less ‘cool’ and light-hearted. 

But what about the scars that aren’t visible? 

The ones that serve as a constant reminder of a past trauma, or something you’re ashamed to talk about. 

No matter how obvious your scars are to the outside world, each and every one of them has a story to tell. 

In the final throwback episode of this little break, we explore how to start healing from old wounds, and what we can do to turn our pain into our power. 

Learn how to turn the experiences that make your skin crawl and bring all of that discomfort bubbling to the surface, into your greatest weapon yet. 

It’s time to face your fears and see your scars for what they really are: beautiful, difficult challenges that make you who you are.  

Tune in to hear how letting go of the weight of those scars can be the key to the inner peace you’ve been searching for all along.

****This episode originally aired November 8, 2021 

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Nothing good ever happens after 2AM
• We all have scars
• Addressing the things that make us uncomfortable
• Learn how to talk to your trauma
• Just because it happened to you doesn't mean it is you
• Letting go of the weight of your wounds
• Be proud and celebrate!

Connect with Dr. Kathy Zhang on Instagram

Join The Purpose Filter podcast Listener Facebook group to connect with other growth-minded individuals who intend on soaking up everything life has to offer, and who wish to live an extraordinary life of purpose and impact as the person they most want to be 

Most of us don't feel as though we're good enough. Sound familiar?

Confidence is a fickle figure and is closely related to feelings of self-worth. So many of us don’t feel confident in every, or even any aspect of our lives. But what if you understood that identity actually plays a significant role in how you perceive yourself?

It can determine how you think, feel and plan for your future self, and can creep into all the different parts of your life. For some people, when your identity as one thing is so deeply wrapped up in who you are, any little cracks can throw you into a whirlwind of despair. It can lead to unhealthy romantic relationships and having unfair demands placed on you in the workplace. 

The first step to shifting the "not good enough" internal narrative is recognizing that what you’re up against is years and years of conditioning. The good news is it's possible to retrain your brain!

In today’s episode, we want to reinforce the idea that you exist, therefore you are worthy. Your self-esteem and self-confidence is inherent, you just need to nurture it a little bit more. 

At the end of the episode, you will be left with an action item for the week, and that is to embrace the challenge of investing in and advocating for your future self. 

Tune in to hear about how to be more confident for your future self and make the most of your time on earth. 

***This episode originally aired October 6, 2021***

Topic discussed in this episode:

• Dr. Zhang’s journey from a shy child to a much more confident adult
• Detaching the end result from your self-worth
• Identity plays a huge role in how you perceive yourself
• You exist, therefore you are worthy
• Advocating for your future self
• Recognizing your own role in your discomfort
• Our invitation to make the most of your time here on earth
  
  

Connect with Dr. Kathy Zhang on Facebook and Instagram.

Join the Purpose Filter Listener Facebook group to connect with like-minded growth-oriented people who are also in search of what it takes to lead a life well-lived! 

In a society built on instant gratification, from texts to same day shipping, when was the last time you gave yourself some peace and quiet? 

We have become so accustomed to daily distractions and chatter that even the thought of sitting in silence or there being a silent moment in a conversation creates a ton of anxiety. 

Join Dr. Zhang in this enlightening episode as she discusses how to she uses silence in her conversations with end of life patients to elicit profound and powerful responses to challenging situations and how you can apply these same principles to your life as well. 

At the end of the episode, you will be left with an action item for the week, and that is to ask yourself if you are able to allow empty space to just be empty rather than trying to fill it up. Give it a try and see if you can, and let us know about it!

Tune in to hear how you can start using silence as a powerful tool to help propel your life forward and connect deeper with the world.

Topic discussed in this episode:

• How uncomfortable we are with silence
• How we fill the silence with sounds
• How we can use silence to our advantage
• Silence as an act of compassion
• The profound information that comes out of silence
• Can you sit in silence with yourself?
• The experience of connecting with your environment
• Why some people can't be alone with their thoughts
• My invitation to you to cultivate silence

NB: This episode originally aired October 20, 2021 and has been edited for content and length 

Connect with Dr. Kathy Zhang on Facebook and Instagram.

Today’s episode may be one of our most important episodes we have aired. What you are about to listen to will change your perspective and the course of your relationships forever. 

After witnessing death time and time again in the palliative care unit, a common theme has emerged from the patients and their loved ones. There are typically FIVE phrases that are said at the end of life that we want to share with you on today’s episode. 

The purpose of sharing these phrases is not for when your loved ones pass, but for you to take these phrases and say them to your loved ones immediately. Today. Right now. Yesterday. 

Why do we wait until the end of life to express how we really feel? Why does it take something so drastic and permanent to simply say “I love you” when that is what we feel or “Thank you” when we are grateful? 

We want to rearrange perspectives to make it normal to say these things now, when we are all alive. It is a gift to be alive at the same time, so let’s start treating it as such.

After listening to this episode, we want you to think of someone you are grateful for, or someone you haven’t spoken to for a while but wish you have, and reach out to them and tell them how you feel before it’s too late. It really is that simple.

Topic discussed in this episode:
-5 phrases to say to your loved ones today before it's too late 

Connect with Dr. Kathy Zhang on Facebook and Instagram.

Head to Apple Podcasts to hear more episodes!

How can something as counterintuitive as leaving your job become the exact catalyst needed to reinvigorate your work and personal life? 

Do you ever feel like a robot could replace you because your life is on autopilot? 

After all, you wake up, go to work, come home, eat dinner, go to bed and do it over and over again. 

Day in, day out. 

You ask yourself “How did it get like this? What am i even doing with my life right now?”

That’s exactly what happened to our guest today, Katrina McGhee. Katrina was fresh from a business school degree working in corporate America when she found herself dreading going to work and terrified at the prospect of waking up an old lady and not knowing how her life had passed her by.  

So she saved a huge sum of money, gave notice at her job and planned for 18 months to travel the world on a career break. But life had other plans for her, including the most massive grief experience she could have never imagined. 

We discuss how she overcame her fears of leaving her job to pursue her break, her systemic approach to exponentially save the cash needed to support it, the transformative and identity-shaping power of solo travel, identity and race, and so much more. 

Katrina now works as a career break and sabbatical coach, specifically helping 9-5ers design mind-blowing breaks so they come back recharged, inspired, happily employed and forever changed.

Katrina's Free Training
Follow Katrina on Instagram @kmcgheecoaching

What if I told you that you're already an artist and you don't need a shred of artistic or drawing ability to prove it?

YOU are the painter/sculptor/writer/glassblower of your OWN life.

But so many of us operate as the observers of our lives, rather than the creative directors we all should be.

How can viewing yourself as the artist of your own life help you live more authentically and in alignment with who you really are?

From coming up with design ideas and concepts to executing and turning your vision into reality, you are living proof of what the artist's journey is all about.

Tune in this week to learn how to unleash the creative artist within that holds the keys to designing a life of purpose: the one you truly want.

This episode was inspired by a Netflix show called Blown Away, highly recommend you check it out!



1 on 1 coaching spots with me open up soon, follow me on Instagram so you'll be the first to know!
https://www.instagram.com/purposefilter/

Think about a situation or person in your life where you have held on so tight, refusing to let go, all while knowing keeping that person around, or staying in that situation is not serving your highest good. 

How does it make you feel to feel stuck there? Pretty terrible I’m guessing. 

Letting go is never easy, but it might be the last barrier between the life you have now and a life of peace and purpose. 

Not being in alignment can cost you the inner and outer peace that you desire. So why do so many of us hold on so tight?

Letting go takes courage, but releasing yourself from that which is holding you back creates space to allow for the things that are truly meant for you. Listen in to hear how you can start the process of letting go of what doesn’t serve you today.

 
Topics discussed in this episode:

• The concept of letting go
• The feeling of lightness after letting go 
• What it looks like to physically and mentally release
• Leaving behind limiting beliefs, disempowerment, and an old identity
• Why it is difficult to leave a situation we know is bad for us
• Perspective on death and letting go

Connect with Dr.  Zhang on Facebook and Instagram.

What if YOU always had enough time for exactly what you needed to do? How would that transform your life? 



After listening to this episode, you'll learn the 5 most common time management pitfalls to avoid and how to immediately implement changes so that time is on YOUR side, rather than working against you. 

After all, how we spend our time is how we live our lives. So spend your time wisely. 

If your daily internal monologue were to be blasted on a boombox for everyone to hear, how would it sound?

If you're like most people, your inner voice can be mean or even downright nasty. 

In this jam-packed episode, you'll learn proven strategies to help you overcome that negative self talk and to nurture the self-compassion needed to love yourself unconditionally. 

You'll learn:

• the tools you can immediately apply to self soothe, comfort and support ourselves when we start to feel the negativity creep in
• the simple yet highly effective analogy to consider when you want to dismantle a long-standing disempowering belief
• the "pattern break" method I now personally use to stop myself from spiraling into negative thoughts  
• how to create an opportunity for new possibilities as a bridge from negative self-talk to empowering belief  
• why shared and common humanity is one of the core principles of self-compassion  
  
  

Resources mentioned:
Self-compassion exercises
Byron Katie - The Work 

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you live intentionally and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: Purposefilter.com

You've been here before:

You meet someone new and the conversation is so awful you'll make up ANY excuse just to run away.

But what if it didn't have to be that way?
What if you were able to form deep, fulfilling and meaningful connections with complete strangers with ease?

How would that enhance your life?
How would that change how you relate to others?
How would that change how you relate to yourself? 
What aspects of your own life would you rediscover by being able to have amazing, soulful conversations with anyone you meet? 

This episode explores one of the fundamental parts of being human: CONNECTION 

At the end of this episode, you'll discover:

• the exact questions to ask someone to create meaningful and impactful bonds, in a very short amount of time 
• why connecting on a deeper level is essential to our existence 
• the techniques we use on a daily basis in hospice and palliative care to quickly establish rapport with people, and how you can use the same methods in your everyday life as well 
• how we are a reflection of the intimacy and vulnerability we wish to see in others 
• how small changes in behavior and intention can create massive differences 

Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you live intentionally and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: Purposefilter.com

Have you ever returned from a trip and thought, "WOW, what a spectacular experience we just had!" 

Well, this week the podcast is back with part 2 of the lessons learned from traveling through Costa Rica and how we can immediately apply those lessons to radically improve our quality of life NOW 

This episode discusses:

• what is pura vida and why is everyone so obsessed with it? 
• how to incorporate more of the pura vida mindset and lifestyle into our daily lives 
• 1 simple and surefire way of bringing more peace and calm into your life 
• how the physical act of washing one's hands can become a symbolic practice of cleansing the mind 
• the "mindful hand on doorknob" exercise that can help bring your attention back to the present when you feel overwhelmed
• the distinction between primary and secondary forest and how it's possible not only to rebuild but to come back even better than before 
• the powerful realizations that occur when you step away from the noise of your mental chatter and become more in tune with nature and eventually, yourself 

Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you live intentionally and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: Purposefilter.com

A few years ago, this concept mentioned in the title would have driven me up a wall and totally turned me off. 

“What do you mean life is happening FOR me?! Clearly things are not going my way, how is this beneficial for me in any way, shape or form?” 

Ever since leaving that mentality behind, life just feels SO MUCH more fun, free, exhilarating and peaceful. Trust me when I say life is WAY better when you embrace this idea rather than the other way around.

This episode teaches you:

• How situations that don’t go according to plan can turn out to be even better than you originally had expected
• The mindset shift and perspective necessary to view any perceived obstacle as a path towards something even better
• The universe will create circumstances in your life to teach you the lessons you need to know at that moment in time 
• How to surrender and trust the process instead of focusing purely on the outcome 
• The flexibility to navigate everything that life will throw at you 
• How your current life is a direct consequence of all the situations that DIDN’T work out in your past, and how that can actually be a GOOD thing 
• How to create and channel the mental toughness needed to go from being the victim of your own life to the victor

Like what you hear? Leave a review and share this episode with a friend!
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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

You've heard of that cute little phrase: "You Have the Power to Protect Your Peace" 

If you've ever read that quote and thought "ok, that's nice and all, but HOW do I actually do that??" 

Then this week's episode is a MUST listen, as it's all about how to CREATE and more importantly, MAINTAIN healthy boundaries

After listening to this week's episode, you'll learn:

• how boundaries can help foster healthier interpersonal relationships
• why maintaining boundaries is so much harder than creating them 
• how to use the power of self-care to replenish our energy stores so we can be abundantly generous with others 
• why self-care IS NOT selfish 
• The right questions to ask yourself to determine which aspects of your life you can start setting healthier boundaries with 
• What we’re REALLY saying about ourselves when we drop everything for others 

Like what you hear? Leave a review and share this episode with a friend!
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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Here's a simple communication tip that will immediately uplevel your conversation with ANYONE, and it's only 6 words long: 

"What does that mean to you?"
"What does ______ mean to you?" 

In this episode, I bring back another palliative care pearl and discuss:

• the importance of clarifying and diving deeper into why people say the things they say
• how our own internal implicit and explicit biases play a role in communication
• why intentional connection through better discussions can help clarify your purpose
• how to ask better questions to truly get to the heart of a problem 
• "assume" = "ass" + "u" + "me" 
• the power of leaning into curiosity to find common ground with others 

Like what you hear? Leave a review and share this episode with a friend! 

Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us so we can thank you personally!

For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Our guest today grew up in a family that encountered substance abuse, incarceration, unstable housing, food insecurity and more before she was emancipated at the young age of 15.

Nowadays, Elaine Stageberg, MD, MHA is a psychiatrist, mother of 4, & Owner of Black Swan Real Estate. She owns & manages a portfolio of >$200 million in assets under management.

It took her 10 years before she realized that she is precisely the person she is today because of her prior challenges, rather than in spite of them. 

In this powerful episode, we discuss mindset, purpose, guidance from the universe, and SO much more. 

Time stamps:
06:30 harnessing the power of outsourcing while balancing different roles

09:00 “Don’t optimize a process that doesn’t need to exist”

11:00 how a challenging childhood shaped Dr. Stageberg into the person she is today

14:37 healing intergenerational trauma and rewriting the narrative of a family 

17:40 envisioning a different life as a young child

24:00 the single instant that changed the course of her life forever 

35:00 how silence provides clarity and a deeper connection to the self 

38:20 the importance of mindset and how to use it effectively  

44:00 how to create a strong sense of purpose/why 

47:00 recognizing and reminding others of their innate power 

52:00 finding her purpose at the intersection of providing quality housing for 

55:00 the “purposeful 3” questions 

Dr. Stageberg reached financial freedom in her 30s through real estate investing and now helps others to do the same. Black Swan has delivered exceptional returns to hundreds of passive investors through their unique investor-focused private equity funds which enjoy no sponsor fees whatsoever, 100% return of capital to investors before any splits, and long-term tax advantages, all coupled with socially conscious investing and at least 5% of profits donated to charity. Connect with her at meetblackswan.com.




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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

• how movement strengthens the mind-body connection and reinforces confidence and self-agency 
• why dance is an amazing tool not only for physical fitness but mental health as well 
• how to reconnect to our inner playful and creative side to steer our lives in the direction we want to go
• the incredible benefits of having an intentional daily movement practice
• the relationship between searching versus creating energy in our daily lives 
• societal and cultural upbringing and how it relates to how we show up for ourselves (or not) 

Can women be great entrepreneurs? Can they build and manage a thriving business while  juggling families and significant others, oh, and burnout too? 

Dr. Sharon McLaughlin certainly thinks so, and we discuss those topics along with focus, fulfillment and much more in this week's episode!

Dr. McLaughlin is board certified plastic surgeon and the founder of Mind Lull, which helps small business owners slow down by providing tools and journals to improve focus and generate more fulfillment. 

She is also the founder of the Female Physician Entrepreneurs Facebook Group, which is a supportive group that brings women physicians together to network and grow. 

Topics we discuss on this episode include:

• wellness and the importance of basic self-care when struggling with burnout 
• why women are uniquely qualified to become entrepreneurs 
• the importance of rest in a high-performance environment 
• how an intentional “mind lull” can actually lead to more creativity
• strategically using planning tools to help increase productivity and purpose 
• the best advice she has for entrepreneurs who feel stuck in their business
• the opportunity cost of fear and how it holds us back 
• how to set boundaries and say "no' so you can say "YES" to better opportunities

You can find Dr Mclaughlin’s planners here: https://amzn.to/3MnMhPK

Her website: https://mindlull.com

You can reach her at smclaughlinmdfacs@yahoo.com

For women physicians https://fpestrong.com

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mind.lull/

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

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonmclaughlinmd/

Facebook: Female Physician Entrepreneurs Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/FemalePhysicianEntrepreneurs

Like what you hear? Leave a review and share this episode with a friend! 
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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Are you sick of playing safe?

Do you ever feel like there’s an invisible force field holding you back from the life you dream about? From the person you truly want to be? 

News flash: that’s called your comfort zone. 

And on this week, we’re saying “F*CK THAT!” 

I won’t lie, this episode is a little spicier than usual, as my alter ego, “Brooklyn KZ”, makes an appearance to help keep it real about how to get out of our own way so we can start living in alignment with who we truly are. 

How can we live with purpose NOW and push past the discomfort so we create the future we desire? 

Take a listen to this week’s episode and you’ll find out! 

Stay tuned for more information on 1 on 1 coaching with me!



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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Last episode we established the concept that the only thing we can truly control is ourselves. Not our families, not our partners, not kids or colleagues or the world around us. 

It's just US. 

This week I delve into what those things are:

• your focus
• your body
• your response

This episode gets into self-awareness, the interplay between choice and control, the mind-body connection and gives specific tools to help us take action and feel like we're more in control immediately. 

Like what you hear? Leave a review and share this episode with a friend! 
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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Are you a high-achieving, type A go-getter?

On one hand, you're action-oriented, achieving big goals and taking names while you're at it.

But what happens when things go awry? How do you deal with uncertainty? How do you cope with *gasp* not being in control?

It's no joke when I tell you that relinquishing my deep need for control has changed my ENTIRE life.

Do you get stressed and overwhelmed because you're constantly trying to make things happen according to plan and nothing seems to be going right so you just continue to freak out and get more and more frustrated?

If the above paragraph has you thinking, "OMG get out of my head, how do you know exactly what I'm thinking about?" then you NEED to listen to this episode.

This episode is the first of a 2 part series all about control. 
Part 1 lays the foundation and gives background about why we feel we need to be in control at all times, and next week we'll talk the things that actually are within our realm of influence. 



Like what you hear? Leave a review and share this episode with a friend! 

Tiphany Kane left a cult-like religion at age 19 and lost an entire community of family and friends virtually overnight. She then promptly found herself in a toxic and abusive relationship and another 19 years passed before she found a way out.

She's now an entrepreneur, public speaker, public educator, and writer who brings her passion for the art of the spoken word to people who need help finding their voice. She's also known as the "Heck Yes!" Coach and hosts not one, but TWO podcasts: Radical Audacity, and Mastering the Podcaster Mindset. 

The question is, how did she overcome her own challenges to get to where she is now? 

In this episode, we talk about embracing radical audacity and how to live in your authenticity and integrity so we can lead from the heart. 

We discuss:

• how to trust the deep and inner knowing that resides within all of us 
• following where curiosity leads
• common signs and symptoms of toxic/abusive relationships
• learning how to move past shame and fear and live an authentic life
• finding the pause in our own lives so we can explore what truly gives life meaning 
• how to set meaningful boundaries with loved ones
•  how to stop living in the “should”s and to lead the technicolor life you’ve always dreamed of

You can find more information about Tiphany Kane on Instagram: @tiphanykane



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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Starting a new series here titled "Letters From Your Highest Self".

I wish my higher, better, more experienced and future self could have given me pep talks when I was struggling during some of the most difficult times in my life. 

I wish that version of myself was there to tell me that everything was going to be okay, and that there was so much in store for me if I could only believe it was possible. 

I may not be able to do that for my past self, but my hope is that I can do the same for you during your moment of need. 

Come back to it again and again whenever you need a boost of reassurance, love and encouragement. 

In the meantime, take care of yourselves and take care of each other!




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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

This might be one of my favorite episodes I've recorded to date. 

It's about a friend who doesn't feel she's worthy enough to wear a beautiful bracelet that she received as a gift. And I'm willing to bet that there's something in your life that may seem like an irrational fear to others, but you just can't seem to get past it, no matter how much you want to.

But like I say in the episode, this is about SO much more than jewelry. 

It's about how you SHOW UP in your own life as the best and most authentic version of YOU. 

Remember, how you do ONE thing is how you do EVERYTHING. How you show up in ONE aspect of your life is how you show up in ALL aspects of your life. 



Introjection definition from the APA dictionary of psychology: "a process in which an individual unconsciously incorporates aspects of external reality into the self, particularly the attitudes, values, and qualities of another person or a part of another person’s personality."



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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Ever have something not work out in your favor? When we're in that moment of disappointment, we become upset and emotional because life didn't go according to plan. 

But have you ever looked back and realized how radically different your life would be if things went the way you wanted rather than the way they actually occurred? 

How is it that some of the strongest people who have gone through unspeakable challenges all seem to say that the challenges made them the person they are today? Some even go as far to say they would do it all over again in exactly the same way because of who they've become as a result. 

This episode dives deeper into how life finds a way to work in our favor, even if it doesn't seem that way at first. It also covers how we can find meaning in the face of adversity, especially when it seems overwhelmingly impossible. 


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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Have a hard time making decisions? Feel like there's something wrong with you because you spend WAY too much time trying to decide something that should be fairly simple? 

As someone who was once INCREDIBLY indecisive, I guarantee that you're not alone. And even better, there's a way to get better at making decisions, and making them quickly. 

Join me in this episode as I discuss:

• common reasons why you're having trouble making decisions, including causes based on biology and evolution 
• how indecision IS a decision—and how you can take advantage of it
• reclaiming control over your language and how you speak to yourself regarding decision-making
• changing your perspective on decisions that TRULY matter 
• analyzing what you're sacrificing when you can't choose an option
• the mindset 
• why mastering decision-making is ESSENTIAL for the life you'd like to create for yourself and your family 

Nothing gets done if we don't DECIDE to do it first.

You have one life. It all starts with you. How will you choose to live it?



Time magazine article: "Transgender Men See Sexism From Both Sides"

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Okay, okay, I know what you're thinking:
 
"I might be afraid to fail or get rejected but there's NO WAY I'm afraid of success!"

Well, take a listen to this episode and let me know whether you still feel the same way afterwards, because my mind was BLOWN when I realized what a huge component these fears were playing in my life. 

We pick up where we left off last week regarding fear (listen here if you'd like to be caught up) and this episode explores: 

• [02:40] - how to redefine failure so it benefits rather than hinders you
• [07:20] how our upbringing/high expectations affects our perception of and amplifies the fear of failure
• [09:00] common causes that lead to a fear of rejection 
• [11:08] how rejection manifests as unconscious self-preservation due to the fear of being authentic 
• [13:50] the fear of success and our identity "set point" 
• [16:40] using new reference points to create the "possibility of more" 
• [19:50] overcoming limiting beliefs surrounding fear
• [20:40] the ripple effect of modeling behavior for others and how it impacts the lives of those around you 

Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Ever wanted to really do something but you were too scared to do so? And then beat yourself up about it later, just wishing you had the guts to really go for what you want?

If so, then you HAVE to listen to this episode.

I love talking about fear because changing my relationship with fear has changed my life. And I know it can do the same for yours as well 

In this episode we discuss:

• [1:55] the evolution of the fear response in humans: benefits and pitfalls
• [4:55] how we can manage our fears starting with small, targeted actions
• [7:49] weighing fear against the courage and desire to overcome it
• [10:45] avoid falling into this trap whenever you start to feel afraid
• [12:59] fear is a signal—you’re the one who decides how to interpret it 
• [14:00]  how end of life experiences change how people perceive and relate to fear 

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

I've made PLENTY of mistakes in the past decade. Have you? 

Join me on this honest and vulnerable episode as I share the 5 lessons I've learned in the past 10 years on the journey from who I was to who I am today. 

It's a journey that you can take for yourself once you've listened because you'll be armed with the same framework I used to get from stuck, overwhelmed, out of control and desperately unhappy to thriving with peace, passion and joy. 

[1:55] Lesson 1: The Here & Now
[5:44] Lesson 2: Strengthening your inner courage and confidence 
[7:58] Have you ever felt the same way I did here?
[11:35] Lesson 3: Channeling your true desires
[15:37] Lesson 4: Planning = Possible
[18:15] Lesson 5: Action = Reality


Leave a review and tell a friend if this episode helped you in any way

Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us @purposefilter so we can thank you personally!

For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Has your body ever felt like it's betraying you? That it keeps trying to send you a message but you're too burnt out/exhausted/trapped to hear it? 

Well, we get into all of that and more in this week's episode with our guest Emily Shaules.

Emily is a Transformational Coach who works primarily with women with invisible illness. A former attorney, professional actor, and Founder/CEO, Emily went from suicidal and on 25 pills a day by the time she was 30, to thriving in her body, mind and spirit.

Emily Shaules website & Instagram @shift.yourself

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Timestamps:
02:30 Emily’s transformation from being suicidal & taking 25 pills a day for debilitating pain to creating a life filled with appreciation and gratitude

04:46 how our bodies are consistently guiding us towards what we truly want by sending signals when we’re out of alignment

08:00 invisible illness and the role it plays in the disconnect between what we’re doing now and who we are meant to be 

09:00 balancing masculine & feminine energies in society, culture, and within ourselves

11:40 how the 40 hr work week has traditionally been designed against the modern woman  

14:30 where to start when you suspect an invisible illness exists and you want to rediscover balance 

21:00 “you don’t even know how good you can feel” 

24:00 the incredible power of believing in ourselves in the face of the unknown 

26:50 allowing ourselves to surrender and trust that we will be OK no matter what happens

30:40 celebrating when we notice our own improved emotional resilience because of the internal work we’ve done 

32:05 reinventing ourselves and embracing that there is never a “wrong” path in life 

36:50 cultivating appreciation for the present moment and allowing our inner truth and inner being to guide us towards inspiration 

43:30 choosing to turn towards what is good and wonderful in a world that provides everything that is amazing and also awful

52:10 The Purposeful 3 questions: 

1.  Can you name something in your everyday life that you find beautiful?
2. Name an item on your bucket list and what’s preventing you from crossing it off now?
3. What does a life well-lived mean to you?

No one likes being overwhelmed. The good news is you now have the final piece of the puzzle to really be able to tackle this challenging and frustrating emotion. 

This episode is part 3 of the series on overwhelm and tackles the most important aspect of managing overwhelm: managing our minds. Listen to episode 19  and episode 20 for parts 1 and 2 of this series, respectively, to build upon those lessons to give you the confidence and know-how going forward.

This episode explores:

• the most common patterns of thinking that contribute to feeling overwhelmed
• how cultural and societal expectations of traditional gender roles subconsciously shape  our thought patterns
• examining the recurring common themes of judgment, expectation and comparison 
• casting doubt on harmful thinking by embracing the power of possibility
• disrupting and dismantling overwhelm by taking purposeful, meaningful action 

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Be honest with me: when was the last time you actually felt good?

We spend so much of our time trapped in our heads that we forget what it's actually like to feel great, play and experience life.   Let's drop out of our heads and into our bodies so we can learn how to regain control over our emotions and our lives.

This episode is part 2 of the series on overwhelm and delves a little bit deeper from the external world that we worked on in episode 19 (click here to listen) 

This episode explores:

• [03:00] drawing inspiration from people who have the emotional resilience and flexibility that we hope for ourselves 
• [06:20] exploring the power of the mind-body connection and its relationship with our emotional state
• [08:00] how a disconnect between mind and body manifests in our daily lives 
• [08:45] exploring the concept of total pain with a real world example
• [14:19] the benefits of nourishing your body, mind and soul 
• [15:00] how fostering the mind-body connection helps us regulate our emotions

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

You're tired. You're overwhelmed. You have so much to do and never enough time to do it. You feel trapped in a cycle of wanting to be productive and yet paralyzed by the anxiety of everything you have to do.

Sounds like you? Well then add this episode to your queue and listen up as we talk about overwhelm and more importantly, how to manage it.

In this episode we discuss:

• debunking the biggest myth about what causes overwhelm in our lives
• why overwhelm keeps us stuck in a vicious cycle and what we can do to break out of it 
• the ONE action-based task you can do TODAY to feel less overwhelmed
• the importance of the additive effects of values based decision-making
• how small incremental actions can prepare you for larger, more important ones in the future 
• the key phrase you can repeat over and over again to calm yourself when you start feeling overwhelmed

Article mentioned: "It's Science: Clutter Can Actually Give You Anxiety"

Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you find your purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

You've heard the phrase before: "Mindset is everything". 

And it's true—a great mindset is one of the best tools we have to make positive changes in our lives.

But despite having a great mindset, why do we still fall short of our goals? How do we explain that? The problem is that we often forget mindset alone isn't enough and that's what we'll be talking about on this episode, the final part of the New Year, Purposeful You series!

In this episode we discuss:

• the incredible benefits of having a great mindset 
• making the internal shift from "how do i do this" versus "who do i need to become?" 
• harnessing the power of fixed versus growth mindset to help us achieve our goals 
• how the language we use to speak to ourselves makes a huge impact on our behaviors and desired outcomes
• the phenomenal power of matching mindset and identity 

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For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content from a palliative care/hospice physician and life coach to help you live intentionally and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

Oh boy, if you've ever pushed something off to the last minute or thought "hmm, I can finish that tomorrow", then you've landed on the right episode!

Part 2 of the "New Year, Purposeful You" series gets down and dirty with a topic we've all dealt with—Procrastination.

(BTW, click here to listen to part 1 of the series where we talk all about how to set an intention for 2022 and play full out in the one and only game that is your beautiful life)

You probably think you've heard it all when it comes to procrastination, but Dr. Li and I take it even deeper. We not only unpack why people push off projects until the very end, but also explore the mindset, unconscious habits, identity and behaviors of a chronic procrastinator (like myself) 

In this episode, we discuss: 

• the main reasons why people procrastinate
• how procrastination manifests as a consequence of mental clutter, fog or underlying anxiety
• debunking procrastination as a personality trait versus a changeable habit
• the intricate relationship between procrastination, judgment and performance 
• how mindset and a strong sense of self can help 
• the "S.M.A.C.K." solution guide to procrastination recovery 
• how habits like procrastination are keeping us from living our best lives 

Dr. Christine Li is a clinical psychologist in private practice in New York City and is also known for her work as the “Procrastination Coach” online. Her Procrastination Coach blog is the #1 blog in the world on the topic of procrastination. She has helped thousands overcome the procrastination habit and get crystal clear on what needs to be done, so they can get into action fast and achieve their goals. Dr. Li’s new book, 5-Minute Self-Discipline Exercises: Stay Motivated, Cultivate Good Habits, and Achieve Your Goals, is a compilation of her best strategies set inside an engaging workbook format. Listen to Dr. Li’s brand new podcast Make Time for Success for inspiration for creating a life of joy, productivity, and abundance.

Other resources mentioned:
Melanie Moore EFT Tapping Youtube

Psycho-Cybernetics book by Dr. Maxwell Maltz 
“steering your mind to a productive, useful goal so you can reach the greatest port in the world, peace of mind."

Like what you hear on the podcast? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us so we can thank you personally!

For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you rediscover purpose and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: Purposefilter.com

Are you feeling an odd sense of deja vu this January 1st?

Maybe it's because you realize you keep writing down the same few resolutions at the beginning of each year and you're ready for a REAL change.

So why not try a different tactic for 2022? 

Enter our "New Year, Purposeful YOU" series. These 3 episodes will help set the tone for a year of intention and the pursuit of a life that makes you so EXCITED to be alive.

In this episode you'll learn:

• a simple, yet POWERFUL strategy that will become the driving force behind everything you do this year 
• how to evaluate your life through the lens of active participation versus passive reaction 
• the gift of INTENTION in our otherwise reactionary culture 
• how a pinball machine can be the secret to unlocking the life you've been dreaming about

Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us so we can thank you personally!

For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you live intentionally and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: Purposefilter.com

Have you ever gotten to December 31st and immediately thought, "How is this year already over? What have I even done all year?"

If this sounds like you, then grab a pen & paper and pay attention as this episode walks you through an exercise that will completely change how you evaluate the past year and set you up for the best 2022 ever. 

In this episode we discuss:

• how the language you use to describe the events of your year affects your state of being and your life
• the radical difference between reflecting back on your year with the lens of missed opportunities versus empowered growth 
• what we can learn from dying patients about how to intentionally evaluate our lives as they are occurring 
• the benefits of writing with pen & paper versus typing 
• the power of reminding yourself of everything you have accomplished and overcome in 365 days 

Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us so we can thank you personally!

Tag us with your year end lists that you created for this episode as well! 

For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you live intentionally and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: purposefilter.com

This episode is an interview from a recent livestream recording for "Gratefully Living the Chronic Life" with Lauren Blanchard Zalewski.

She runs the Attitude of Gratitude with Chronic Pain Facebook group which focuses on using GRATITUDE in order to enhance our healing from the emotional pain associated with chronic pain/illness/depression.

Watch the video on YouTube here:

In this episode we discuss:

• how naming what we're afraid of actually helps us reclaim power over it
• what it means to grow and derive meaning in the face of life challenges
• how the lens through which we perceive the world becomes the life we experience
• cultivating gratitude for the ordinary, everyday moments 
• the importance of separating external factors from our self-identity 

Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us so we can thank you personally!

For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you live intentionally and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: Purposefilter.com

Have you ever had carefully laid plans that life decided to (not so) conveniently flip upside down? 

Well, that's exactly what Dr. Sari Green experienced when she uncovered the hidden reality behind her happy marriage just 4 months into her first pregnancy. What followed was a 6 year journey of self-exploration,  resilience and healing.

In this episode we discuss:

• how a complete life dismantling helped reawaken and realign what was once lost
• learning to trust your instincts again after trauma
• reconnecting the thread of the whole self through past, present and future 
• finding your way back from a place of chaotic overwhelm and feeling "stuck" 
• the importance of maintaining connection while coping with challenging life events

Dr. Sari Green is a physician with a background in both Traditional Chinese Medicine and western medicine, a general surgeon, single mom and certified life coach.  She created Lotus Coaching to help women shift from surviving to thriving through big life transitions, with expertise in addiction, infidelity and high-conflict divorce. She provides 1:1 coaching helping clients release the past, reclaim the present and create a bright and beautiful future.

Dr. Green can be reached at Sari@GreenLotusCoaching.com and sarigreenmd.com 



Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us so we can thank you personally!

For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you live intentionally and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter and on the website: Purposefilter.com

You’re a responsible adult. You plan for retirement, set aside money for a rainy day, and even save for your children’s college tuition. 

But when it comes to planning for the future, chances are one of the most important decisions you could make is one you’ve never even considered. Until now!

In this episode, we cover a fundamental topic in palliative care and discuss the importance of choosing a health care proxy. We cover what it is, why you need one, and what happens to you and your loved ones if you don't elect a proxy.

Is choosing a healthcare proxy the sexiest topic of discussion? Probably not.
Is it incredibly worthwhile and valuable to know what medial treatments your loved one would or would not want so that when you're about to make some incredibly difficult medical decisions, you can be confident you're making the right choices? Abso-freaking-lutely!

Stay tuned for the last 10 minutes of the episode to hear some mind-blowing shifts in how we think about the values that make our lives meaningful, both now and in the future. 

Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend! 

Post a screenshot of you listening on Instagram & tag us so we can thank you personally!

For more life-changing, mindset-shifting content to help you live intentionally and transform your life from the inside out, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter

We all have scars. There are visible ones that we can show others at cocktail parties as we trade stories of how we injured ourselves. And there's also the invisible ones that are too hurtful, traumatic or shameful to think of, let alone speak aloud.

But whether we can see them or not, our scars, our wounds—they all carry a story.

This episode explores the wounds and scars we carry with us—the ones that have deeply transformed us, exquisitely hurt us, or fundamentally altered our lives.

What kind of person would you be without the weight of those scars holding you back from the life you really want?



Like what you hear? Leave a review and tell a friend!

For more life-changing, paradigm-shifting content to help you live your best life, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter  

Ready to hear an embarrassing story?

It's a tale of obsession and fixation on an object of desire—specifically the Hermes Kelly leather luxury handbag—that ultimately helped me realize an uncomfortable truth about who I was and where I wanted to take my life. It's a story of how I fell victim to external noise and expectations, how it clouded my judgment and kept me from finding my true self.

This episode is about so much more than a handbag. We all spend precious time, energy and effort in the blind pursuit of things we are told we need, rather than what we truly want.

If you've ever shopped mindlessly, found yourself in a hole browsing social media or felt caught up in a whirlwind pursuit of something that doesn't seem quite "right" to you, then this episode will be a game changer!

Follow @purposefilter on Instagram for more inspiration and life lessons

In palliative care, we are taught to embrace silence and even how to use it strategically when having difficult conversations. In this episode, we delve further into how we can use quiet reflection and silent space to have profound breakthroughs in our own lives and how to use it to cultivate a deeper connection with our world and ultimately, ourselves. 

Follow @purposefilter on Instagram for more inspiration and life lessons

Let's face it: we all know someone who's so incredibly confident that we're secretly jealous and wish we could be more like them. 

My friend recently asked me "How are you so confident??"

The thing is, I wasn't always this way. I grew up as a shy immigrant who was constantly bullied, which eventually led me to being taken advantage of in all aspects of my adult life—in school, at work, and in my relationships. 

In this episode we discuss:

• The 2 huge realizations that will transform your perception of self-worth
• The sneaky science-based trick you can use to feel more empowered and confident 
• The relationship between self-esteem and identity,  and how to allow your inherent self assurance to stand solidly on its own 
• How your future self can help you live the life you truly desire, one that leaves you with no regrets when it's all said and done

If you have ever felt uncomfortable speaking up for what you deserve and wishing you had the type of unshakeable self confidence that could weather any storm, then this episode is a must listen for you

Follow @purposefilter on Instagram for more inspiration and life lessons

In this episode we explore grief and how to begin the process of healing after experiencing loss.  Whether you have lost a job, a relationship, your health or the life of a loved one, this episode shares the strategies that will set you on the path towards feeling better.

"...there is not a typical response to loss, as there is no typical loss. Our grieving is as individual as our lives." - Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

Resources mentioned:
Harvard Business Review - That Discomfort You're Feeling Is Grief 

SAMHSA’s National Helpline  1-800-662-HELP (4357)  is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental and/or substance use disorders. For more information, click here

The Dinner Party -  platform for grieving 20- and 30-somethings to find peer community and build lasting relationships

To find a bereavement support group near you, click here

For more life-changing, paradigm-shifting content to help you live your best life, follow us on Instagram @purposefilter  

Part 2 of our special anniversary episode chronicles the experiences of 9 Americans, as told in their own words. Hear their powerful stories as they share their whereabouts that day, how 9/11 has shaped their thoughts about life, the pandemic, and the world. 

Two decades have passed since the crisp September morning that would alter the course of history. 

I was only 14 at the time, going to school just a few blocks away from the twin towers, so 9/11 is a day that carries a special place in my heart. 

Join me for a special 2 part episode where we reflect on our experiences on the actual day but more importantly, how our lives have been shaped and altered by the events. 

Part 1: My experience 
Part 2: A collection of stories from Americans who reflect on the impact of 9/11 

For any WTC survivors (those who lived, worked or went to school near Ground Zero), please sign up for the 9/11 World Trade Center health program at the link below:

https://www.cdc.gov/wtc/apply.html

Two decades have passed since the crisp September morning that would alter the course of history. A singular event that upended our lives, our world views and our country.

I was only 14 at the time, going to school just a few blocks away from the twin towers, so 9/11 is a day that carries a special place in my heart. Join me for a special 2 part episode where we reflect on our experiences on the actual day but more importantly, how our lives have been shaped and altered by the events. 

Part 1: My experience 
Part 2: A collection of stories from Americans who reflect on the impact of 9/11 

For any WTC survivors (those who lived, worked or went to school near Ground Zero), please sign up for the 9/11 World Trade Center health program at the link below:

https://www.cdc.gov/wtc/apply.html

Tell me if you've ever said this to yourself: "Oh, We all know what a "bucket list" is—we all probably have one of our own. It's a list of items we'd like to accomplish before the proverbial bucket kicking aka the end of our lives. 

We think we'll be able to start crossing items off our bucket list at a later date. We wait until the time is "right", when we've achieved a big goal or turned a certain age. We believe that the opportunity to go on our dream vacation or pursue our passions will still be there when we're ready—someday in the future.

But what happens when life disagrees? 

Join me for this episode as we discuss delayed gratification, the arrival fallacy and how to shift from bucket list eventuality to bucket list REALITY. 

What's the right path, the right way to do something? Society, culture and the people around us often dictate we perceive as the "correct" path forward. But what happens when what we feel in our hearts differs from the typical, the normal, the socially accepted? 

This episode discusses how finding the "right" way requires one to look inward, and how  things often work out even better than we could have imagined, despite being different than our original expectations. 

You've seen the side by side comparisons: expectations versus reality.  Perhaps an online purchase was not as advertised or your cake doesn't turn out like the beautiful recipe you followed. 

But how much of what's causing us stress, anxiety, anger and disappointment in life is because of the mismatch between what we thought was going to happen versus what our reality actually is? How does the lens of expectation affect how we view ourselves, our relationships and the world? 

Listen to this week's episode to find out how to bridge the gap and find a little more gratitude in this journey we call life. 

Join me in this episode to learn about my journey to pursuing palliative care, how it's made me a better person and transformed how I practice medicine and view the world.

Per the World Health Organization: "Palliative care is an approach that improves the quality of life of patients and their families facing the problem associated with life-threatening illness, through the prevention and relief of suffering by means of early identification and impeccable assessment and treatment of pain and other problems, physical, psychosocial and spiritual."

What does it mean to lead a life well-lived? As a palliative care physician, I’m fortunate to witness some of life’s most intimate moments at the bedside of seriously ill--often terminal--patients. There’s an incredible clarity, purpose and meaning that comes with confronting one’s mortality and my mission is to share that with the world so everyone can live their best, most meaningful and fulfilling life. Will there be lots of emotions that bubble up as we have honest, inspiring and sometimes difficult conversations? Of course. There’ll be tears (of joy, and probably regular tears as well, at least on my part), some laughs and lots of stories that will make you feel all the things. 

Will it be worth it? Well, what’s worth more than life itself?  

Stay tuned for more episodes