ABC News Anchor Paula Faris Finds Purpose (ep. 340)

Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary

Paula Faris spent two decades ascending to two of the most coveted jobs in broadcast journalism: co-anchor on Good Morning America + co-host on The View. Yet burnt out + frustrated, Paula walked away... and was left unsure of her identity outside of her career.

Today, Paula shares the success she achieved professionally, the chaos that came with it + how embracing her fear of failure brought her peace.

This conversation is a reminder that we're worth so much more than our work. Join us in this episode to find more peace, purpose, and balance in your day-to-day life.

SHOW NOTES:

• After leaving Good Morning America + The View at the height of her career, Paula went through a season of introspection, solidifying her identity + worth beyond what she does for a living.
• Dedicated to her father, her book Called Out explores finding the immoveable, unrouteable parts of ourselves that we can cling to.
• “I want to leave the legacy of being. Investing in what’s important, living a life of impact and a life of purpose.”
• Twenty Questions: Even as a child, Paula was naturally curious, telling stories with inflection and passion. Her high school drama teacher was the first of many who breathed life and encouragement into a career in broadcasting.
• Peel back your layers to determine your talents, releasing you to try new things, reinvent yourself and to find your calling.
• What is your calling? Ask yourself:
  1. What am I good at?
  2. What do I love?
  3. What do trusted people noticed that I'm good at?
• “Vocation is seasonal. We’re called to do different things at different times. We shouldn’t feel trapped because of a paycheck.”
• Life shifts are inevitable. If our identity is one-dimensional, we lose sight of who we are and what we want to be.
• Pressing into fear: Captivated by the coverage of 9/11, Paula was motivated to overcome her fear of failure and pursue a career in broadcasting.
• Imposter Syndrome: When you are called to do something, you will be equipped to do something. You have to step out in faith, obey and press into fear.
• Burnt out and struggling professionally + personally, Paula recognized accomplishment, achievement + success in her work became an addiction.
• Am I answering my calling? Ask yourself:
  1. Are my professional + personal choices clashing with my values?
  2. Am I finding too much significance in things that shift?

• As a sign to slow down, Paula felt God intervened five times in seven months, which included a miscarriage with emergency surgery, concussion while shooting a segment, car crash and influenza which developed into pneumonia.
• In taking “the next big step”: Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (Joshua 1:9)
• To avoid repeated burnout, Paula intentionally sets boundaries so she meets her most important role of being present with her family.
• Front porch mentality: If your 70-year-old self is looking back on this moment, what decision would they make?
• Listen to Paula Faris’ podcast Journeys of Faith here.
• Get a copy of Paula Faris’ book Called Out here.

PAULA FARIS' LIVE INSPIRED 7

1. What is the best book you’ve ever read? The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman andThe Case for Christ by Lee Strobel.

2. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today? Carefree, hanging out with friends.

3. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be? Fireproof box with all my important things and all my photo albums.

4. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be? Bono and I'd like to explore this faith.

5. What is the best advice you’ve ever received? Regarding fear, focus on what's the best thing that can come out of it versus the worst.

6. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self? Have fun, give yourself grace and your biggest flaws and failures will probably be your biggest successes.

7. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read? My name is Paula. I'm a wife, mom, Jesus follower, curious, like to ask questions and champion, challenge + connect people.

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