Michelle & Dana dive into musician-turned-consultant Kwaku Aning’s story of heartbreak, evolution, and redirection. From the residue of his pain and experience, he’s built a new path—proof that nothing is wasted and that our failures shape who we become.

In this episode of 'A Life Worth Working,' hosts Dana Alan Walsh and Michelle Weise delve into the fascinating journey of Kwaku Aning of Retro-Futurism consulting. Kwaku shares his story of how the traits that once got him in trouble—curiosity and constant chatter—eventually became his greatest assets. Discover how these gifts led him from teaching music at a charter school in Harlem to a versatile career, connecting people and ideas in innovative ways.

In this Shit Pile Episode of "A Life Worth Working," Scarlett Lewis, founder of the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement, shares how she transformed unimaginable pain into purpose after losing her son at Sandy Hook. Scarlett discusses facing challenges and finding the good that can emerge from difficult experiences, showing us that nothing is wasted.

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.

What does it take to live a life of purpose and principle? In this compelling episode, hosts Dana Walsh and Michelle Weise engage in a rich conversation with Jeffrey Rosen, President of the National Constitution Center, as he reflects on the defining moments and habits that have shaped his life. From his early inspirations and intellectual awakenings to the quiet power of deep reading and the discipline of morning rituals, Rosen offers a rare glimpse into how character is forged.

Listeners will also explore how the Founding Fathers’ timeless wisdom and the pursuit of self-mastery are not just historical ideals—but essential tools for modern democratic life. If you're searching for insight into living deliberately, creatively, and civically, this episode is not to be missed.

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.

In this episode of 'A Life Worth Working,' hosts Michelle Weise and Dana Walsh explore the profound impact of mortality with guest Meredith Wilson Parfet, CEO of Raven Yard. Meredith's journey began with personal tragedies that led her to a deep exploration of death and dying. From sitting with the dying as a hospice volunteer to becoming a death doula and chaplain, she integrates her experiences to help others navigate grief and crisis. The episode delves into how confronting death can lead to a richer, more authentic life, challenging societal norms around invincibility and immortality.