239. Derick Sebastian | Daydreaming With Purpose

May 1, 2025

In this engaging conversation, Derick Sebastian, a best-selling author, life coach, and renowned ukulele artist from Maui, shares his journey from childhood passion to a flourishing career. He discusses self-leadership and the mindset shifts required to overcome imposter syndrome. Derick reflects on his emotional experiences performing at major events and the transformative process of writing his memoir. He emphasizes the power of purposeful daydreaming and how Hawaiian culture fosters love and community, shaping one's path toward fulfillment.

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ANECDOTE

Life-Changing Ukulele Discovery

Derick Sebastian discovered the ukulele at 11 after his father figure, Mr. Ellis, played it during recess.
Mr. Ellis became his mentor, transforming ukulele from a hobby into a life-changing foundation.

INSIGHT

Ukulele's Cultural Origins

The ukulele is originally a Portuguese instrument renamed by Hawaiians as "jumping fleas".
Its strings' lively movement inspired the name, highlighting cultural blending in Hawaii.

ANECDOTE

Ukulele Journey to Stardom

Derick faced teasing for playing the unpopular ukulele but persisted, finding hope and purpose.
His passion led to international tours, sports performances, and a broadened creative career.

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The World’s #1 Personal Development Book Podcast!

In today’s episode, we have the pleasure to interview Derick Sebastian, author of Daydreaming With Purpose: Self-Leadership Strategies to Manifest Your Passion Into Your Profession.

Derick is a best-selling author, keynote speaker, life coach, and internationally acclaimed ukulele artist from Maui. Known for his heartfelt performances and the Spirit of Aloha, he has captivated audiences worldwide, earning recognition as one of the world’s greatest ukulele players.

His career spans songwriting, producing, and educating, blending passion, resilience, and purpose. He has performed for major names such as Oprah Winfrey, Jason Mraz, and Boyz II Men, as well as for NBA and MLB teams, including the Lakers, Clippers, and Diamondbacks.

In this episode, you’ll learn how Derick turned his childhood passion into a thriving career, the importance of self-leadership, and the mindset shifts necessary to manifest your dreams. We’ll also dive into overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing the power of Aloha, and how small moments can change the course of your life forever.

We hope you enjoy this incredible conversation with Derick Sebastian

To learn more about Derick, buy his book , and other resources follow the links below:

The Book: https://a.co/d/fgm8GIA

Website: https://www.dericksebastian.com/

https://www.instagram.com/dericksebastian/

https://www.facebook.com/dericksebastianpage

https://www.youtube.com/user/dericksebastian

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

Chapters:

1:38 – Finding His Calling at

11 4:24 – The Ukulele Journey

8:56 – A Father Figure’s Impact

10:36 – Ukulele: Purpose, Joy & Travel

13:08 – Career Milestones & Big Moments

19:20 – Unboxing the Book & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 24:29 – Impact Beyond Accomplishments

26:57 – For the Dreamers Facing Imposter Syndrome

30:01 – Turning Passion into a Career

31:20 – Hawaiian Chocolate Review & Unboxing

32:54 – Embrace the Aloha Spirit

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