Today I'm chatting with an old dear friend from Amherst College, Allie Canton who is a meditation teacher and the author of Practically on Purpose, a Substack and podcast for high achievers who collected all the gold stars and are now looking for deeper meaning, purpose and joy. She's also a healthcare technology lawyer advising high-growth startups and volunteers with causes supporting health care access and immigrants' rights across the Hudson Valley.In this conversation, we explore the themes of community, immigrant experiences, and the importance of family. We discuss our educational journeys in elite institutions, the challenges of navigating career choices, and the cultural differences in parenting. The conversation highlights the significance of building connections in new environments, the balance between work and personal life, and the role of spirituality in our lives.

Check out Allie's Substack Practically On Purpose

and keep up with me on Instagram @nneya

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

07:33 The Impact of Community and Responsibility

10:25 Navigating Education and Career Choices

13:20 Cultural Identity and Family Support

16:12 Experiences in Higher Education

19:10 Building Community in Corporate Environments

25:41 Navigating the Startup Culture

28:11 Balancing Work and Personal Life

31:39 The Impact of Environment on Well-being

35:13 Rebuilding Life with Intention

38:38 Creating Community in New Surroundings

44:34 Supporting Community and Institutions

45:21 Navigating Friendships and Career Changes

47:23 Shifting Perspectives on Work and Identity

48:45 The Importance of Family Time

51:03 Cultural Differences in Parenting

53:24 Community vs. Individual Happiness

55:54 Innovation and Tradition in Society

58:44 Embracing Chaos and Creativity

01:04:31 Defining Home and Belonging

01:05:28 Building Home outro - 2:4:25, 2.59 PM.mp3