S1, E45: Human Work Project - Charlie Warner
In this week's episode of the Small Lake City Podcast, we dive deep into the life and career of Charlie Warner, a queer entrepreneur from Salt Lake City. Charlie's story is a testament to the transformative power of nature, community, and self-discovery. From her early years growing up in Utah to her role as the founder of Human Work, Charlie's journey offers valuable insights into aligning one's career with personal passions and values.
The episode kicks off with Charlie sharing her experiences growing up in Salt Lake City, emphasizing the importance of unstructured play and connection with nature. Charlie recounts her childhood at the base of Big Cottonwood Canyon, where she spent countless hours exploring the outdoors. This connection to nature laid the foundation for her future endeavors, inspiring her to integrate natural elements into her business strategies.
As we transition into her academic journey, Charlie discusses the pressures of choosing the right career path during college. She reflects on her decision to attend the University of Utah over Westminster College, highlighting the unique blend of outdoor adventure and high-quality education available in Utah. This combination of nature and academia played a crucial role in shaping her entrepreneurial spirit.
One of the central themes of the episode is the challenge of growing up queer in conservative Utah. Charlie candidly shares her struggles with identity and community, navigating the contrasting influences of the LDS church and the accepting counterculture in Salt Lake City. These experiences fostered a sense of resilience and self-awareness, ultimately guiding her toward a career focused on personal development and empowerment.
Charlie’s journey to entrepreneurship began with a diverse career in communications, consultancy, and teaching. Her transition from the tech industry to founding Human Work is a compelling narrative of finding one's true calling. Human Work merges business strategy with personal development, creating an ecosystem of mentors to support clients holistically. Charlie's story of helping a physical therapist friend launch a successful clinic after being laid off exemplifies the impact of addressing personal confidence and imposter syndrome in entrepreneurship.
The conversation delves into the concept of finding fulfillment in work through connecting with nature. Charlie previews her upcoming TEDx Salt Lake City talk, where she will explore how nature can inspire better business strategies and workplaces. She emphasizes the importance of aligning work with personal values, using nature as a guide to foster creativity, resilience, and adaptability.
In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Charlie's passion for teaching and mentorship shines through. She discusses her role as an adjunct professor, highlighting the value of applied learning and strategic thinking in both business and education. The evolving landscape of academia and the role of curiosity and play in mastering new skills are also explored, providing listeners with a holistic view of career development.
The episode concludes with a reflection on the importance of understanding and aligning with personal and organizational values. Charlie draws parallels to mountain climbing, illustrating how values act as essential tools guiding our journey toward fulfillment. By clearly articulating and living these values, individuals and organizations can navigate detours and achieve their goals, ultimately leading to a more passionate and purpose-driven life.
Charlie Warner's story is an inspiring example of how embracing one's identity, leveraging the power of nature, and fostering community can lead to a fulfilling and impactful career. Her insights on entrepreneurship, personal development, and the evolving nature of work offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to align their career with their passions and values. Don't miss this engaging episode and be sure to catch Charlie's TEDx talk for even more inspiration!
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