Ep.012 - Finding Meaning, Part 2
Episode Notes
Given how many hours we spend working, we want to feel like our work has meaning. To learn how people find that meaning, we interviewed four people to get a sense of their own journeys toward meaning-making. In the second part of our two-part series, our guests discuss the difference between finding purpose and finding meaning at work, what happens when we don't find that meaning, and seeking meaning outside of our careers.
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Featured In This Episode
Alva Harrell is a seasoned eCommerce industry professional with experience working for notable companies like Stitch Fix, Walmart.com, and JCPenney. Her passion for connecting people with products has driven her to master the art and science of the business. Through her experience, Alva has gained important skills and knowledge, demonstrating a deep understanding of the industry.
Outside of work, Alva indulges her creativity through oil painting and sewing, bringing a unique perspective to her dynamic work in eCommerce.
Drawing on his vast experience in corporate social responsibility, strategic communications, and storytelling, Aaron Johnson is driven to help organizations ascend toward their goals and build stronger, more equitable communities. He brings a curious, empathetic, and enthusiastic approach to his work, applying his leadership skills, listening ear, and tenacity to deliver creative solutions and innovative strategies.
During his time as a Sr. Communications Specialist with Point32Health Foundation, Aaron played a crucial role in developing and implementing Point32Health's nationally recognized corporate citizenship program amidst the combination of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan. Working cross-functionally with the Corporate Citizenship and Community Investment teams, Aaron drove colleague volunteerism and giving initiatives while amplifying the organization's regional grantmaking. Prior to this, Aaron led the activation of corporate partnerships with national nonprofit Good Sports, working closely with brands such as Adidas, the Atlanta Falcons, Chicago Cubs, Empower, and the New York Rangers to increase access to youth sports in underserved communities across the United States. He also developed strategic communications plans during the 2016 Zika outbreak with the Essential Medicines Department of the World Health Organization. Aaron received his M.S. and B.A. in Communications from Clark University.
When he's not helping organizations advance their impact and communicate their unique story, Aaron can be found in his studio delivering broadcast-quality voiceovers for his global client base, hiking, teaching tennis, exploring the Boston food scene, and staying active with a myriad of different sports ranging from soccer to beach volleyball.
Rebecca Miller lives in Newton, MA and is a Senior Product Strategy Manager at a Boston-based software firm. She has served in various product marketing & strategy roles since graduating with her MBA from Clark University in 2016.
In addition to her career in tech, Rebecca also serves on the associate board for the Anti-Defamation League New England Region – a non-profit organization that focuses on fighting all forms of hate.
Alyssa Pellegrini is an accomplished professional serving as the Assistant Director of Operations and Administration for the Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases at the Harvard Chan School of Public Health. With a strong foundation in public health and a deep passion for helping people, Alyssa is driven by a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the lives of others.
During her tenure at the Harvard Chan School, Alyssa previously worked in the Department of Epidemiology, specifically within the esteemed Center for Communicable Disease Dynamics (CCDD) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her involvement in such critical areas has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of the complexities of infectious diseases, and their impact on global health.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Alyssa resides in the coastal heaven of Rhode Island, and you can often find her taking her two dogs to the beach. During the warmer months, Alyssa finds solace in the waters of Narragansett Bay, where she boats and sails. Otherwise, you can find her cooking and baking new recipes from Half Baked Harvest or Crème De La Crumb.
