From a Blog to a Dream Job: A case study of Passion and Action

How one client transformed his career through daily action and passion.

Back in 2021, I had a coaching client who came to work with me because he really hated the way his career had gone. A director level at a large company, he wanted to either start something new or join an early-stage tech startup in the automotive industry.

We spent a couple of meetings just talking about dreams, passions, and identifying the roadblocks he faced. I asked him, “What would be your dream startup to join?” “Drive” (code name), he told me.

We decided he should start a side passion project while still working for that large company. We settled on him starting a blog on Medium on the topic that he was super excited about - the intersection of automotive and tech. Luckily, he was a real doer. He woke up early every morning, made himself a cup of herbal tea, and wrote. The first week or two were hard; he had never really written before, so he spent more time on each post. But after that, he got into a groove and spent a maximum of one hour per post.

From there, things were very satisfying to watch. “I think I really love writing, you know?” he told me. “I had no idea I loved it, but I really do.” In the following weeks, he showed up to our calls really energized and proud. One day he even shared with me that he just received a prize from upper management for his contribution to the company at the yearly companywide award ceremony. We laughed and said, it’s all the passion project. Joke aside, his daily writing wins, writing on a topic he really loved, turned on an energy flywheel inside that made him a more effective leader at the company. He also got back his mojo and was no longer walking half dead at the office.

While his following grew on Medium and he had a decent following there, he decided he wants to start a podcast. I loved the idea. The following week he recorded his first episode, created a landing page for it, and started an FB group. His podcast was around the same topics he loved writing about, and so each person he reached out to - head of innovation at automotive companies, head of accelerator programs at big car brands, and CEO of startups in the space. He managed to bring them all to the show for a couple of reasons: 1) everyone loves talking about themselves, 2) he introduced himself as an expert blogger in the field (started two months ago but with over 30 articles published), 3) he shared his passion for the industry, and everyone loves being with passionate people.

He produced approximately eight episodes, each progressively improving week by week, and one day I asked him, “Who would be your dream guest?” Without thinking much, he said: X, the CEO, and founder of “Drive” (code name). “Cool,” I said. “What are you waiting for?” He took a big breath and emailed him. X said yes and came to the podcast a week or two later. My client and him had a great time together. So great that my client got an email from him after the episode was recorded - “Are you looking for a job?” A month later, my client left his job and joined Drive as the head of BD, his dream job.

Our work together ended a few weeks later, where he no longer needed me. We are still in touch, and I love and respect him so much.

In reflecting on this success story, it's evident that the transformative journey undertaken by my coaching client was fueled by a powerful combination: unwavering integrity, consistent action, and an undeniable passion for his chosen pursuits.

As he committed to daily writing, weekly podcasting, and engagement with industry leaders, his authenticity shone through. The recognition and energy he gained from his passion project not only revitalized his professional life but also played a pivotal role in attracting the attention of the CEO who recognized and valued that unique passion.

This success story underscores a fundamental truth: Passion, when coupled with consistent action, becomes an unmistakable force. It's not just a quality; it's a genuine expression that cannot be fabricated. The CEO's recognition of this energy and enthusiasm speaks volumes about the magnetic power of passion.

This case marked the first instance beyond my own experiences where I witnessed the transformative impact of a passion side project on someone's life, turning me into a huge supporter.

So, the lesson is clear: if you aspire to create new opportunities for yourself, immerse yourself in action around something you are truly passionate about. Set ambitious goals, stay committed, and watch what unfolds.

As Howard Thurman wisely said, "Don't ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive because what the world needs is people who have come alive."

If you're a busy founder or executive and you feel that you want your fire back, if you're considering launching your own passion project, I'm here to help, let's talk. I am a 3-time founder and coach, I've not only witnessed but personally experienced the transformative benefits that creative side passion projects can bring to both lives and careers. Check out my own passion project Wheels of NYC.