Ep. 12 | Connecting Language Speakers for Immersive Conversations with Jess Ames Pappalardo

Written By Sarah Bettman
 
 

In this week’s episode of 'Live Stoked, Lead Stoked', I had not only the amazing Jess Ames Pappalardo, but she is also my cousin. We had a wonderful conversation about the essence of doing what truly fulfills us. There is significance in deviating from conventional paths when they don't align with our inner desires, and the importance of carving time for things we love.

Space for Creativity in Adulthood

As adults bogged down by formal roles, we discuss how crucial it is to create pockets of creativity and play. We explore this theme with anecdotes from us about maintaining our creative spark amidst responsibilities.

The International Cafe Movement

Jess joined the podcast to share her entrepreneurial venture, INT’L CAFE. She shed light on how it evolves from just an idea of travel immersion to hosting language cafe events, focusing on real-life language exchange and fostering cultural understanding in vibrant, organic settings.

Language, Accents, and Power Dynamics

Jess also touched on the nuanced power dynamics surrounding language accents. Her approach with INT’L CAFE aims to dismantle these barriers, promoting connections and cultural bridges.

‘Living Stoked’ Philosophy

Throughout the episode, Jess explored what it means to 'live stoked'—choosing joy and having a good time, despite life’s hurdles. I want to commend Jess for her authentic, counter-cultural choices that have positively impacted her unique career trajectory.

Creative Beginnings and Personal Growth

Jess's early years in a creative and innovative atmosphere played a profound role in shaping her entrepreneurial spirit. From art school to immersing herself in diverse cultural experiences, Jess's background is rich with community-driven ventures and collaborative art events.

Human Connection and Intention

Jess impressed upon us the value of intention in our conversations and human interactions. She described the experiential richness of attending diverse language events and highlighted the prevailing generosity and empathy.

Living Stoked Before Leading Stoked

Jess offered her wisdom for incorporating new endeavors into our lives. She stressed the significance of gratitude, creating space for new ideas, and the eagerness to learn and grow.

Celebration of Diverse Cultures

In closing, the conversation circled back to Jess's work in fostering inclusive spaces where people can communicate in their native language and feel culturally nourished. Jess’s story encourages us to listen, observe, and stay curious.

I hope that hearing from Jess will inspire you to find your unique way of living and leading stoked. 

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More About Live Stoked | Lead Stoked

Have you ever wondered if there is something more? Are you ready for something to change, but aren’t sure how to get started…or even what to change? Do you dream of living life on your own terms, full of purpose and the ability to choose what’s best for you? Are you ready to live stoked?

You’ve come to the right place! In this podcast, we will explore what it means to live stoked. To live a life on your terms, one where we’ve tossed away the pressures of roles, expectations, and identities that have been put on you and that you did not choose, is a bold choice. Frankly, it’s a series of small choices in micro-moments that lead to a bold life.

I am Sarah Bettman, coach, consultant, and speaker, but more importantly, I’m a person who found myself waking up in the wrong life and needed to find a way to me. 

I am on a mission to unravel the things we tell ourselves, the roles and/or identities we’ve taken on, and the expectations that drive our decision making, so that we can begin to live our most authentic and stoked lives. My guests and I will share our stories, solutions, and multitude of ideas…since one size definitely doesn’t not fit all. 

My hope is that you will find something meaningful for you, in the moment, that will move you forward on your path.

Sarah Bettman
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Ep. 13 | Financial Simplicity with Nicole Barham
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Ep. 11 | Understanding Your Unique Identity with Dr. Stephanie Kirkland