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

Passion Struck with John R. Miles

John R. Miles

Mental Health, Alternative Health, Education, Self-improvement, Health & Fitness

4.7 • 779 Ratings

🗓️ 19 August 2025

⏱️ 51 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

🧾️ Download transcript

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.Visit this link for the full show notes.Go Deeper: The Ignited Life SubstackIf this episode stirred something in you, The Ignited Life is where the transformation continues. Each week, I share behind-the-scenes insights, science-backed tools, and personal reflections to help you turn intention into action.Subscribe🔗 and get the companion resources delivered straight to your inbox.Catch more of Jennifer Tosti-Kharas & Christopher Wong Michaelson: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/christopher-wong-michaelson/is-your-work-worth-it/9781541703407/?lens=publicaffairsIf you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.Get the full companion workbook at TheIgnitedLife.netFull episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JohnRMilesListen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcastsEveryone deserves to feel valued and important. Show it by wearing it: https://startmattering.com/

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Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it.

Disclaimer

The Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice.

Transcript

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0:00.0	At Matalan, the one you've been waiting for is here.
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0:09.7	It's your chance to save big across women's men's kids and home.
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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