53. John Mollura | How to Be True to Yourself in Changing Careers

This episode, I interview John Mollura. We talk about his journey in discovering his identity through dealing with anxiety, imposter syndrome, and rising up in his field as a test engineer with NASA and other military projects.

John is a full-time photographer specializing in empowering, creative portraits. John turned his lifelong hobby of photography into a full-time career after 15 years as a test engineer for NASA and military projects.

His work has appeared in many places, from National Geographic to Country Music Television. John believes in giving back and has led, and founded, many photo-centric community events and groups. His most recent project is the RE>Figured Project with the mission to turn scars, wounds, and hurts into celebrations of survival through storytelling and creative portraits. John initially only photographed landscapes. He became known for images shown from unusual and captivating points of view. He lives in Delaware with his wife and three children.

Visit his webpage: molluraphoto.com/portraits

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*After each interview, I will be recapping the "Questions to Ask Yourself" I put in the show notes, (menareforged.com/guestinterviews). Questions have the power to create momentum and change in the hearts and minds of people no matter where you are in life.

1. When in my life have I discredited an opportunity that led to a positive outcome?
2. What personality trait have I used to hurt others yet could use to help and encourage instead?
3. What advice would I give my 20 year old self?
4. How has my view of faith changed in the last 10 years?
5. What painful events change my life for the good?
6. What new thing am I wanting to try yet too afraid to fail at it?

2:50 - Dad being the most noble person he ever met

5:30 - Going to college at Penn State

9:35 - Missing out out on his dream job with Disney

13:05 - Becoming a field engineer for NASA with his mentor, Skip

19:30 - Realizing in his 20s having imposter syndrome

24:10 - Redeeming and reusing his humor for good not destruction or hide his insecurity

25:30 - Positively impacting people through his photography business

28:55 - Advice for his 20 year old self

31:20 - 2 events that led to the biggest turning point in his life

33:50 - View of Christianity and religion for most of his life

37:15 - Becoming a Christian beyond Sundays

40:23 - Message for New Fathers

47:30 - Wife being the catalyst to his career change

50:05 - Love of photography started

51:20 - Being willing to try something new

55:00 - Failing in a creative space is freeing and inspiring others

56:30 - Reminder to his 20-year old self

60:30 - Refigured Project