In this episode of Connecting with Purpose, we’re joined by Don Yaeger—hailed as one of America’s best storytellers, a twelve-time New York Times bestselling author, nationally recognized keynote speaker, and host of the top-ranked Corporate Competitor Podcast, which I’ve been hooked on since hearing Don speak in person just two months ago.

Don’s career spans decades of interviewing and working alongside extraordinary leaders and teams. From his time as Associate Editor at Sports Illustrated and Storyteller in Residence for National Geographic, to his current work as a coach helping executives build cultures of greatness, Don’s insights are rooted in deep curiosity and real-world experience.

In this conversation, Don shares three powerful “10 out of 10” life moments—from surviving cancer and embracing fatherhood later in life, to witnessing the radical power of forgiveness. He reminds us that life happens in seasons, and purpose is found not just in what we achieve, but in how we connect and contribute. We explore what it means to lead with intention, tell stories that matter, and make each day your masterpiece.

Key Takeaways:

— The Magic of Perspective: How a health crisis reframed Don’s entire outlook on life, purpose, and legacy.

— Forgive the Unforgivable: A powerful true story of healing through forgiveness—and the freedom that comes with letting go.

— Purpose in Storytelling: Don shares his framework of “story, lesson, application” and how storytelling builds trust, meaning, and connection.

— Living Your Legacy: Why intentionality, curiosity, and helping others share their story are key to lasting impact.

— Identity & Reinvention: What Don learned through major transitions—and how letting go of titles helps us step into new seasons of purpose.

🔗 Connect with Don:

— Website: donyaeger.com

— LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/donyaeger

— Podcast: CorporateCompetitorPodcast.com

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