Your Purposeful Life with Adrian Starks

Hosted by Adrian Starks

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Episodes

135

Latest episode

Nov 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Welcome to Your Purposeful Life and I’m your host Adrian Starks. I am a speaker, voice narrator, comic card/superhero fanatic, book lover, writer, martial artist, health enthusiast and just a fellow human seeking and creating purpose. On this podcast we aim to achieve a different dialect on the concept of purpose because it is not a one size fits all approach. There will be a variety of guests with various backgrounds and skills expressing their purpose through the human mess we call the human journey in the midst of changes and challenges while finding out who they are, why they do what they do and how they got good at doing what they do on this planet. This podcast will be the guidepost to help you do more than determine your purpose. It will give you the tools to trust and honor it bringing you a greater sense of success, fulfillment and achievement on your terms. Let's start this journey of purpose together.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

November 10, 2026Episode 13922 min

Find Your Glow

Send us Fan Mail Your glow isn’t missing. It’s been held back. I’m Adrian Starks, and I’m calling out the one step of purposeful living that most of us avoid even when we want change: self-expression. Not the curated kind that wins quick likes, but the real kind that costs courage because it puts your truth in public where judgment, criticism, and rejection can find it. I talk through why it feels so hard to live purposefully right now, especially when social media turns everyone into a loud reviewer. We unpack rejection as the hidden fear behind public speaking, creativity, and even everyday honesty. I share my own shift from trying to “look the part” to letting people see the full range of who I am, because humans are multifaceted and our authenticity is what actually connects. Then I pull lessons from Bruce Lee and the way he broke out of the boxes Hollywood and culture tried to lock him in, shaping his own path through Jeet Kune Do. I also point you toward creative courage and moral courage, including what it looks like to speak up, set boundaries, and stop being a doormat while still staying kind. The goal isn’t perfection. The goal is becoming better while you learn, grow, and finally express what you’ve been carrying. If you’re ready to stop hiding and start showing up, press play. Subscribe for more, share this with someone who needs a push, and leave a review so more people can find the purposeful living conversation. Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn

April 18, 2026Episode 13824 min

How To Live With Purpose When Life Gets Loud

Send us Fan Mail Competing is loud. Completing is quiet and powerful. After five months away, I’m back to explain why stepping off the hamster wheel can be the most purposeful move you make, especially when you’re tired of performing for likes, chasing timelines, or measuring your life against someone else’s highlight reel. I talk through how my own mission has evolved, and why I leave the older chapters up on purpose: growth is supposed to be visible. Purpose isn’t one perfect answer you find once and defend forever. It’s a perspective shaped by your life experiences, your season, and what you’re learning right now. If you’ve been thinking “I’m behind,” I want you to hear this clearly: where you are can be exactly where you need to be to learn something important. You’ll get a practical framework you can use immediately: learn, grow, express. We break down how to become a student again, how to apply what you learn through action, and how to build the courage to fully express who you’re becoming with boundaries and self-respect. I also share why grief can slow you down without stopping your purpose, and how introspection helps you stay kind to yourself while you rebuild momentum. To close, I reframe The Tortoise And The Hare with one idea that can change your week: compete vs complete. One letter makes the difference. If this helps you, subscribe, share it with a friend who’s been comparing themselves, and leave a review so more people can find Your Purposeful Life. Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn

November 20, 2025Episode 13737 min

From Breast Cancer To Brushstrokes: Transforming Pain Into Power with guest Joanna Blair

Send us Fan Mail We talk with internationally exhibited painter Joanna Blair about turning a breast cancer diagnosis into clarity, creative grit and work that celebrates inner beauty, resilience and new beginnings. We explore hidden keys, fear, purpose and how to guard the mind in a noisy world. • why challenges feel hard and how mindset shapes the experience • the shock-to-clarity moment after diagnosis • the winding path from nursing and makeup to global art shows • thriving beyond survival as a creative theme • doors closing so better ones can open • hidden keys as symbols of potential and inner guidance • practical courage through first steps and steady focus • curating inputs and protecting attention from algorithm noise • purpose defined as freedom, growth and joy • advice for young people on identity, boundaries and resilience Subscribe to the YouTube channel and hit that like button with a purpose Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn

July 2, 2025Episode 13622 min

Hidden Capes: The Heroes Behind The Job

Send us Fan Mail What if your greatest strength isn't what people see, but what they don't see? The superhero narratives we grew up watching on Saturday mornings weren't just entertaining cartoons—they were powerful metaphors for our adult lives. Remember sitting cross-legged in front of the TV, watching X-Men or Superman save the day? These stories continue to resonate because they speak to something fundamental about the human experience: we all have unique gifts that often remain hidden beneath the surface of ordinary life. Like Clark Kent working at the Daily Planet, many of us move through professional environments where our full potential remains unseen or unacknowledged. We take directions from people who might be shocked if they knew our true capabilities and dreams. What makes the Clark Kent/Superman analogy so compelling is that Clark was the real hero—not Superman. The restraint, patience, and wisdom required to know when to reveal your power and when to hold back is perhaps the greatest strength of all. As Maya Angelou wisely noted, "I think a hero is any person really intent on making this a better place for all people." Heroism isn't about flashy demonstrations of ability; it's about consistent, intentional effort to improve conditions for yourself and others. Your greatest superpower remains invisible to others: being authentically you. The thoughts you cultivate, the feelings you honor, and the actions you take—these shape your presence and impact. This isn't about grand, world-saving gestures. It's about bringing your unique talents into everyday situations, stepping out occasionally to demonstrate your capabilities before stepping back in. It's a dance of revelation and restraint that transforms environments through deliberate action and the courage to be seen. Take a moment to reflect on the superheroes you connected with as a child. There's likely a meaningful connection between those characters and your own innate strengths. Purpose isn't something you find—it's something you do, consistently and intentionally. Join our community to discover how your human mess becomes the process that helps shape your purpose your way. Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn

May 27, 2025Episode 13521 min

Why Purposeful People Outlast Tough Times

Send us Fan Mail Ever feel like you're walking through mud while everyone else skips effortlessly through life? You're not alone. When unexpected challenges hit—whether economic pressures, health concerns, or relationship troubles—finding solid ground seems impossible. The secret isn't that some people don't have problems. It's that purposeful people navigate difficulties differently. They understand that purpose isn't some distant treasure to be discovered but something we actively create through daily choices. Your purpose at 25 may look nothing like your purpose at 50, and that's perfectly normal. What matters is identifying what brings you connection, peace, and satisfaction right now. Consider the ancient fable of the oak and the reed. When fierce storms came, the mighty oak was uprooted while the humble reeds survived by bending with the wind. "You were destroyed by fighting against the storm," explained the reed, "while we survived by yielding." This wisdom applies directly to our modern challenges. Fighting circumstances beyond our control exhausts us, while learning to bend—adapting while maintaining our core values—allows us to withstand life's fiercest winds. Like a captain navigating through a storm, your purpose becomes the destination that keeps you oriented when visibility is poor. Each day, ask yourself: "What is my purpose today? What small action can I take that aligns with my values and brings me peace?" This daily practice of purposeful living builds resilience that withstands even the most challenging circumstances. Remember, you have a sacred birthright to happiness, peace of mind, and well-being—but that journey starts with you. Tough times don't last, but purposeful people do. Your human mess is simply part of the process of shaping your purpose, in your own unique way. Subscribe to this podcast on your platform of choice and join our community as we navigate life's challenges together, finding purpose even in our most difficult moments. Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn

March 25, 2025Episode 13418 min

Challenging Captain America’s, Anthony Mackie, Viral Quote on Success

Send us Fan Mail At the heart of achievement lies a fundamental question: is success earned through effort and determination, or simply bestowed upon the chosen few? When actor Anthony Mackie's controversial statement that "success is given, not earned" went viral, it triggered important conversations about the nature of accomplishment, especially for younger generations already navigating a complex relationship with achievement in the social media age. This thought-provoking episode dissects what success truly means beyond the soundbites and viral quotes. Drawing wisdom from motivation pioneer Earl Nightingale, who defined success as "the progressive realization of a worthy ideal," we explore why success should be viewed as a journey rather than a destination. The path isn't about accumulating possessions or validation but about aligning with your authentic self through purposeful action toward meaningful goals. Those with platforms and influence bear significant responsibility for the messages they amplify. When we remove context from challenging conversations, we risk fostering entitlement and passivity rather than agency and resilience. Through Ralph Emerson's timeless wisdom that excellence creates its own opportunity, we discover that true success comes from continuous self-improvement—being better than yesterday, not better than others. Your success journey is uniquely yours. Stop comparing your chapter one to someone else's chapter twenty. Whether building a career, pursuing a passion, or developing personally, the authentic path to achievement requires vision, action, and the courage to define success on your own terms. Remember: your human mess is the process that shapes your purpose your way. Join our community as we navigate life's challenges together and discover what it truly means to live purposefully. Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn

February 2, 2025Episode 13323 min

Embracing Life's Transformative Journey: From Setbacks to Success in Human Nature

Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered how life's unexpected turns can reshape your purpose? Join me, Adrian Starks, as I open up about my transformative two-month hiatus and the profound changes in my journey since 2018. • Confronting the challenges of recent life events • The evolution of the podcast and its purpose • The impact of the pandemic on personal aspirations • The physical move and its emotional implications • Coping with the loss of my father and its significance • The importance of vulnerability and self-expression Inspired by legends like Les Brown and Maya Angelou, I reveal the raw truth about the winding path of self-discovery and how COVID-19 turned expectations upside down. Through the highs and lows, I've learned that making others feel valued is the true mark of success. Listen in as I share candid insights and stories that led to a new direction for "Your Purposeful Life," evolving from an entrepreneurial spotlight to a broader exploration of human nature and purpose. Looking ahead to 2025, I'm thrilled to share plans for hosting an array of incredible guests and making empowering podcast appearances. Together, we’ll explore the depths of self-expression and growth, drawing parallels to the complexities of superheroes. Through engaging conversations, we'll unravel the beauty of humanity and the significance of embracing our emotions. With references to Socratic wisdom and "A New Earth," this episode aims to inspire you to honor your unique journey. Get ready for diverse content, from movie insights to Marvel comics and beyond, as we embark on this shared path of learning and growth in our chaotic yet beautifully human mess. Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn

November 13, 2024Episode 13230 min

Overcoming Mental Health Stigma: Insights from Marc Paisant on Wellness

Send us Fan Mail Imagine navigating life's challenges with a sense of purpose, even when the odds seem stacked against you. That's the journey I, Adrian Starks, share in our latest episode of Your Purposeful Life Podcast, alongside the insightful Mark Paisant, host of the Relatively Normal Podcast. Together, we unpack the layers of mental health, emphasizing the need to openly discuss anxiety, stress, and depression with the same ease we discuss a common cold. Our conversation is not just about sharing struggles but also about finding empowerment through vulnerability and intentionality. Marc and I are on a mission to normalize mental health conversations, challenging the stigma that often surrounds them. We explore personal stories that reveal the hidden battles behind seemingly successful exteriors, including my own experience of grappling with depression. Marc shares his transformative journey of overcoming negative self-talk and isolation, highlighting how small gestures, like a simple text, can make a world of difference. We also examine the growing trend of public figures sharing their mental health stories and the ripple effect it has on societal norms and personal growth. This episode is more than just a dialogue; it's a call to action to live with intent and purpose. Whether it's aligning your actions with personal goals or finding strength through fitness and therapy, the path to a fulfilling life comes down to self-compassion and purposeful living. Marc adds to the conversation by sharing insights on shaping your own purpose, reminding us all that our personal challenges are integral to our journey. Tune in to be inspired, empowered, and to find a community that values the human experience in all its complexities. Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn

September 10, 2024Episode 13130 min

Men's Mental Health Matters: Finding Your Purpose with Jay H Tepley

Send us Fan Mail Episode #131 In this episode, Adrian Starks interviews Jay H. Tepley about stepping into greatness as a man and finding purpose. They discuss the challenges men face in society and the importance of rites of passage. Jay emphasizes that purpose should not be equated with career and explains the process of choosing and expressing one's purpose. They also explore the concept of the new era and the need for personal responsibility. Jay shares insights on breaking through plateaus and offers advice on living a purposeful life. The episode concludes with a discussion on Jay's book, The Light Witch Chronicles, and her lightsaber training program for mental health. takeaways Men face challenges in society and often lack support and guidance. Purpose should not be equated with career; it is about becoming the greatest version of oneself. The new era requires embracing personal responsibility and creating one's own reality. Breaking through plateaus requires listening to the heart and seeking guidance from mentors. Living a purposeful life means finding inner peace and serving the world. Guest: Jay H. Tepley Social Media Website : https://newerasuperhero.com/ Tik Tok : https://www.tiktok.com/@newerasuperhero YouTube : https://www.youtube.com/c/newerasuperhero Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/newerasuperhero Linked In : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhtepley/ Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn

June 26, 2024Episode 1301 hr 0 min

Poetry and Beatboxing in Ireland with Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin

Send us Fan Mail Episode #130 Summary: In this conversation Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin , a renowned poet, singer, and speaker from Ireland, discusses the power and purpose of poetry. He explains that good poetry is often descriptive, instructive, and inward-looking, inviting readers to feel and connect with their own experiences. Poetry can be therapeutic and healing, instilling patience, silence, and solidarity. Mícheál recites a poem by W.B. Yeats and discusses the personal and honest nature of poetry. He also mentions other influential Irish poets such as Thomas Moore and Oscar Wilde. Overall, poetry offers a unique perspective and allows us to explore the invisible aspects of our existence. Takeaways Good poetry is descriptive, instructive, and inward-looking, inviting readers to connect with their own experiences. Poetry can be therapeutic and healing, instilling patience, silence, and solidarity. Poetry offers a unique perspective and allows us to explore the invisible aspects of our existence. Irish poets such as W.B. Yeats, Thomas Moore, and Oscar Wilde have made significant contributions to the world of poetry. Authenticity and being true to oneself are essential in the creative process. Creativity can be a form of therapy and a way to express and process emotions. The Irish culture has a rich history of poetry, music, and creativity. Beatboxing and breathing exercises can be used as tools for self-expression and creativity. Aha Moments "The act of reading a poem is an act of patience." "Reciting poetry from memory creates a deep reverie." "Ireland is synonymous with art, music, and creativity." Guest: Mícheál Ó Súilleabháin Social Media Website : https://www.owenandmoley.com/ Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/MichealMoleyOSuilleabhain/ LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/m%C3%ADche%C3%A1l-moley-%C3%B3-s%C3%BAilleabh%C3%A1in-84790591/ Support the show Support our YPL podcast : https://www.buzzsprout.com/257393/supporters/new Social Media Adrian Starks - YouTube Adrian Starks | Facebook Adrian Starks (@_adrianstarks) Adrian Starks | LinkedIn