The Pain That Prepared Our Purpose: The Untold Story Behind “Wealthy and Well-Known”

In this milestone 600th episode of the Influential Personal Brand Podcast, Rory sits down with his co-author, business partner, and wife—AJ Vaden—for her first-ever author interview. But this isn’t just a book promo. This is the raw, behind-the-scenes story of how Brand Builders Group was born in the ashes of unexpected loss, career heartbreak, and spiritual refinement.

AJ vulnerably opens up about being fired from the company she helped build, the moment she realized her identity was misplaced, and the childhood trauma that shaped her purpose. You’ll hear about the divine timing of a single phone call from Lewis Howes, the quiet miracle of provision during crisis, and how a stranger’s words unlocked a lifelong belief about her worth.

This episode is a masterclass in personal transformation—what it means to rebuild, to be refined, and to serve others from your story’s deepest wounds.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, author, coach, or just someone trying to figure out who you really are… this episode will meet you there.

🎧 Listen to discover:

• Why identity—not strategy—is the foundation of personal branding

• The spiritual side of starting over

• How Brand Builders Group rose from rock bottom

• What “Wealthy and Well-Known” truly means—and why peace is the new profit

• The one phrase that may reframe your entire past

🔥 Plus: Get the audiobook free at FreeBrandAudiobook.com/podcast