Calvin Schwartz: Award-Winning Author, Novelist, Journalist & Podcaster
- Transitioning from pharmacy (a path influenced by family) to pursuing his true passions
- The spiritual catalyst that led him to leave pharmacy after 12 years
Podcast
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Overview
This inspiring episode of The Brand Called You features Calvin Schwartz—author, novelist, journalist, college lecturer, and podcaster—in conversation with host Ashutosh Garg. The discussion explores life’s turning points, self-discovery, the power of storytelling, spirituality, leadership, and actionable environmental optimism.
01:20 – Key Turning Points in Calvin’s Professional Journey
- Transitioning from pharmacy (a path influenced by family) to pursuing his true passions
- The spiritual catalyst that led him to leave pharmacy after 12 years
- A period of self-discovery that opened doors to new opportunities, including a role in the eyewear industry
03:01 – Limiting Beliefs and Personal Growth
- Early struggles with self-confidence and believing he wasn’t smart or capable of excelling
- Unexpected affirmations (notably through basketball) that reshaped his self-perception
- The importance of support systems, self-awareness, and openness to growth
05:05 – Storytelling vs. Reporting
- Journalism focuses on facts: who, what, where, when, and why
- Storytelling invites the audience to “live” the experience
- Emotional connection transforms information into impact
06:24 – Leadership Lessons from Luxottica
- The guiding mantra: “Do it right. Do it now.”
- Communicating effectively with diverse personalities
- Applying sales principles beyond traditional sales roles
- Insights from his business fable, Ten Things I Learned from the Billionaire
09:40 – Staying Optimistic About Climate Change
- His environmental awakening during the first Earth Day in 1970
- Personal lifestyle commitments, including eliminating four-legged animal meat since 1975
- Shifting focus from overwhelming global crises to achievable local action
12:21 – The Blind Spot in Well-Being
- The interconnection of humans, animals, and the planet
- Biological cycles linking all living systems
- The power of grassroots action and accepting the limits of control
RESOURCES:
Learn more about Calvin Schwartz: LinkedIn
Enjoyed this podcast?
His book, There’s a Tortoise in My Hair: A Journey to Spirit, explores how embracing slowness—like the tortoise—leads to endurance and quiet strength.
Fun fact: Calvin Schwartz didn’t learn to tie his shoes until sixth grade. What once felt like a weakness became a symbol of resilience and pride.
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- Transitioning from pharmacy (a path influenced by family) to pursuing his true passions
- The spiritual catalyst that led him to leave pharmacy after 12 years
- A period of self-discovery that opened doors to new opportunities, including a role in the eyewear industry
