Jennifer Tosti-Kharas & Christopher Wong Michaelson on the Work Worth Doing | EP 652

Passion Struck with John R. Miles

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4.9 • 1.3K Ratings

🗓️ 19 August 2025

⏱️ 51 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

In episode 652 of Passion Struck, John Miles speaks with Jennifer Tosti-Kharas and Christopher Wong Michaelson, co-authors of Is Your Work Worth It? Together, they unpack the hidden costs of chasing achievement, the myths surrounding “do what you love,” and why meaning—not just money—drives true fulfillment. Drawing from research, stories, and practical insights, they reveal how to align career, calling, and purpose, and why legacy and contribution often matter more than status or salary. This conversation is a guide for anyone seeking deeper significance in their work and life.

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Catch more of Jennifer Tosti-Kharas & Christopher Wong Michaelson: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/christopher-wong-michaelson/is-your-work-worth-it/9781541703407/?lens=publicaffairs

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Transcript

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0:14.2	Shop in store now or online at matelan.com.uk.
0:18.7	Season C's apply.
0:20.1	Coming up next on Passionstruck.
0:22.3	When we feel our work is deeply meaningful, we are less sensitive to maximizing our rewards
0:30.2	that we get from it.
0:31.3	For example, if I'm paid, if I'm doing a task that's deeply meaningful, and I know that
0:35.6	I have, I'm being paid on a per task basis,
0:38.3	like a piece rate kind of compensation scheme. I will do more work, the more meaningful my work.
0:44.7	I'm not totally insensitive to money. I'm not totally clueless about money. If it stands to be
0:49.0	more money made, I'll expend more effort. The interesting thing that we were able to disentangle in
0:53.9	our study, though, is the same
0:55.4	relationship held when workers were salaried, meaning I can do more work, but I'm not necessarily
1:01.2	additionally compensated for it.
1:03.2	Welcome to Passionstruck.
1:04.2	Hi, I'm your host, John R. Miles, and on the show, we decipher the secrets, tips,
1:09.5	and guidance of the world's most inspiring people
1:12.3	and turn their wisdom into practical advice for you and those around you. Our mission is to help
1:18.7	you unlock the power of intentionality so that you can become the best version of yourself. If you're
1:24.9	new to the show, I offer advice and answer listener questions
	...

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