Why do we do what we do? If you’ve ever stared at a goal and wondered what’s really driving you—or struggled to take your passion from wishful thinking to concrete action—this episode is for you. Discover how finding your “why” can change not just your path, but your entire perspective.

What I Discussed

I get honest about my own journey from being absolutely terrified of public speaking (nearly forgetting how to breathe during my first college speech) to stepping into the world of thought leadership and podcasting. You'll hear how I stumbled into finance despite every instinct and how facing gender barriers and industry stereotypes actually clarified my “why.” I talk through the winding road—from creating free financial literacy courses to pushing for industry change, and eventually becoming vice president of a media company dedicated to accessible financial education.

But it doesn't stop there. I walk through the evolution of my reasons for pursuing this work, from changing an industry that seemed like a “playground for the rich” to empowering others with their own stories. I share the fears, the negotiation tactics (and the times I walked away from big offers), and why sometimes making even small waves in your own corner of the world is more than enough.

We explore how to uncover your own motivating force—your “why”—with ten deep-digging questions designed to spark real reflection. I lay out the path forward: how to turn personal motivation into actionable, SMART goals that move you from intention to impact, no matter where you are in your journey.

Key Takeaways

• A goal without a plan truly is just a wish—discovering your “why” is the first and most crucial step toward meaningful change in any area of life.
• Your “why” might surprise you; sometimes it only becomes clear after you’re already on the journey.
• Small acts—like suggesting a simple change at work or creating free resources—can spark larger ripples of transformation.
• Thought leadership isn’t about stage lights and big audiences; it’s about using your unique experiences and perspective to shine a light where it’s needed most.
• Defining and revisiting your goals helps ensure they stay actionable, relevant, and connected to your core values, even as life and priorities shift.

What drives you? I challenge you to dig into your own “why” by reflecting on the ten questions I share in this episode. If you’re ready to go deeper, download the free Open This Book journal at openthisbookpodcast.com and spend some time turning your why into a real, actionable goal. Don’t just think—write it down, give it structure, and commit to your next step. And when you’re ready, join me in the next chapter. Let’s start building your unique path to leadership, one intentional step at a time.