A Life Worth Working

In this deeply moving episode, Scarlett Lewis shares her remarkable journey of transforming personal tragedy into a global movement. After losing her son Jesse in the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy, Scarlett was inspired by a message left by her son to start the Choose Love Movement. She discusses how this movement focuses on social-emotional learning, courage, gratitude, forgiveness, and compassion in action, aiming to provide essential life skills for flourishing. Scarlett provides insights into how her purpose evolved through this tragedy and highlights the importance of choosing love over fear. Her story serves as a powerful example of turning pain into purpose and highlights the transformative power of love, compassion, and community.

In this special sh*t pile episode of A Life Worth Working with Jeffrey Rosen, President of the National Constitution Center, reflects candidly on a painful public critique early in his career that forced him to confront his ego and embark on a profound inner journey.

Jeffrey Rosen, President of the National Constitution Center and a professor at George Washington University Law School, shares insights on living with purpose and principle. He discusses the importance of self-mastery and character development in today's distraction-heavy world. Rosen emphasizes the value of deep reading and morning rituals in shaping our lives. He also explores the concept of vocation as a journey, alongside the historical wisdom of the Founding Fathers, to inspire listeners to cultivate their own paths to happiness and civic engagement.

In this bonus episode, Meredith talks about how she "found the courage out of the ashes of [her] life." You're not going to want to miss this extra episode of A Life Worth Working. 

Meredith Wilson Parfet, CEO of Raven Yard, shares her transformative journey from finance to hospice care following personal tragedies. She discusses how confronting death enriches life, emphasizing the importance of genuine human connections during end-of-life care. Meredith also dives into her work as a death doula and chaplain, illustrating how grief can lead to personal growth and deeper meaning. The conversation challenges societal norms about invincibility and immortality, encouraging listeners to embrace life’s impermanence.

Jacob Lentz, a former TV comedy writer turned emergency room doctor, shares his incredible journey of reinvention. He discusses the unpredictable nature of Hollywood and how it prepared him for the challenges of medical school. Lentz highlights the value of resilience and curiosity, illustrating how failures transformed into learning opportunities. He explores the emotional depth of working in an ER, emphasizing the importance of authentic human connections during crises. His story proves it's never too late to pursue your passions and embrace change.

In this Sh*t Pile episode of “A Life Worth Working,” hosts Michelle Weise and Dana Walsh chat with Jacob Lentz, a former comedy writer turned emergency room doctor. Jake shares a story about how Hollywood strangely prepared him well for the slog and grind of going through medical school while also becoming a commissioned officer in the Navy Reserves.

Simone Stolzoff, author of The Good Enough Job, shares his journey from avoiding a writing career to embracing it fully. He tackles the perils of a work-centric culture and emphasizes the need for boundaries to reclaim personal life. Simone argues for diversifying our sources of meaning beyond just work, discussing the importance of multiple identities. Practical tips for achieving balance and fulfillment beyond professional roles are explored, urging listeners to recognize their intrinsic value and the interconnectedness of humanity.

Author Simone Stolzoff shares his way of thinking about the manure-like experiences in our lives and the tradeoffs we have to consider making. 

Once you subscribe to “A Life Worth Working” (wherever you get your podcasts), you'll get a special little episode delivered every Thursday: a precious, little gem we lovingly call a "Shit Pile Episode" (yep, we curse here—and it's totally OK!). Each guest shares the shittiest moment of their careers and how vital and life-giving those moments ended up being. And then the following Tuesday, you’ll get to hear a full episode with that particular guest. But heads up: we don’t repeat the Thursday stories in the Tuesday ones, so subscribe now! You definitely don't want to miss our stories about the muddy mess.