The Purpose Myth: Finding Meaning Beyond the 9–5 with Charley Cramer

What if the “dream job” isn’t where you’ll ever find your true purpose?

In this episode of Beyond the Bestseller, Kelly Schuknecht sits down with Charley Cramer, author of The Purpose Myth, to talk about why purpose doesn’t live inside corporate careers, and how you can create it on your own terms.

Charley shares the story behind her nonprofit Crack + Cider, how a coffee in Berlin sparked a global movement, and why corporations that promise to “help you find your purpose” are selling a myth. Together, Kelly and Charley explore:

• Why your 9–5 job isn’t designed to fulfill your life’s purpose
• How side projects can become “purpose projects” that bring meaning (even if they never make money)
• The role guilt, especially for women, often plays in how we give back
• How to identify what truly lights you up by asking, What breaks your heart?
• Why creating psychological safety and alignment at work can itself be a form of purpose
• The evolving journey of purpose and why it often shifts throughout life

If you’ve ever felt stuck in a job that didn’t fulfill you, or wondered how to align your work with what matters most, you’ll find Charley’s perspective both refreshing and empowering.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

• Connect with Charley on Instagram: @charleycramer
• Get her book: The Purpose Myth
• Learn more about Kelly’s Author Power Circle for women writing their books

If this episode resonated with you or someone you know, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with those who might need to hear Charley’s story. For more resources to help you write and market your book, visit kellyschuknecht.com.