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Michael S. Brown was born and raised in Los Angeles, California and holds both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Psychology. A published author, Michael has worked in the fields of publishing, film, television and higher education and is the founder and CEO of Second Acts, a non-profit fundraising organization for animal rescue nationwide. Michael joined us live on March 17th for our radio program, and can be reached at www.secondacts.org.
We interviewed Michael recently on Blog Talk Radio about his inspiring passioneering journey, both ups and downs. Here’s the archive. Enjoy!
Questions on Michael’s Passioneering Journey
SO: Your definition of “passion” – your “WHY” for being on the planet?
An individual’s passion takes them to places he or she never knew existed. Whereas our ordinary, day-to-day responsibilities consist of tasks and projects we need to complete in order to survive, our passions are the substance by which we find enrichment, joy and purpose in our lives. Without the existence of passion, there is no learning, development or personal growth.
SO: Your biggest passions for serving others, and how you’re expressing them (include hobbies, volunteering, if you wish)?
I have had the fortunate opportunity to share the knowledge I have gained by teaching and volunteering. Acting as the vessel through which others can obtain personal and professional growth has provided me with great satisfaction upon seeing how I have been able to enrich the lives of others, including our four-legged friends in need of a new, loving home.
SO: Your biggest challenge(s) in expressing your passions for serving others and how you’ve addressed them?
The initiation and launch of my own non-profit organization presented several challenges, the biggest being the creation of a company that would best serve our four-legged friends as well as fulfill the needs of an animal-loving public that wants to help but doesn’t know how. The most effective way to address any challenge is to thoroughly research the information needed to reach that particular passion or goal. The biggest stumbling block for most is a lack of focus and knowledge of how to make their passion a reality.
SO: They say that when you do what you love, the rest follows. What has been your experience of prosperity, as you define it?
Prosperity is measured by how many people’s (or animal’s) lives I touch. I have received such overwhelming support from the public, which confirms that I have made a successful leap towards fulfilling my passion.
SO: The biggest lesson that you’ve learned in making the leap?
The most important lesson one can learn is that one cannot accomplish anything alone. Setting goals and pursuing passions requires the inclusion of others, and I consider myself very fortunate to have the support and encouragement I needed to make that leap.
SO: What’s your support system look like; how did you create it?
My support system is composed of a healthy balance between personal (family, friends) and professional (Board of Directors). The latter came together from years of networking and maintaining personal relationships with like-minded individuals whom I chose to join me in this journey.
SO: What wisdom do you have for someone who’s scared/discouraged about their own leap?
If one is fearful or unsure about pursuing his or her passion, take small steps. Do not listen to negative words from the past. Surround yourself with those who really know you and who believe in your abilities; they will be there in case there is a misstep and help guide you in the right direction. But it all starts with knowing who you are, concentrating on your strengths, and believing that an unsuccessful endeavor does not equal personal failure.
What’s your next big milestone?
Following a successful grassroots launch, Second Acts is ready to move to the next plateau, which will consist of national exposure and the creation of entities in each state to generate greater awareness of both the organization and the need to support animal rescue.
Happy Passioneering Michael and Thank You![/private][/private]
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