Conversation with Carol Spahn — the Peace Corps and the Power of Service

Volunteer Stories

Carol Spahn shares her transformative journey from corporate America to the Peace Corps, highlighting the profound impact of her service in Romania. She reflects on the challenges and opportunities of working in a post-communist country, emphasizing the importance of investing in people during economic transitions 1. Her experience in Malawi further enriched her perspective, as she navigated the complexities of living in a developing nation with her family 2.

Living and working in a country like Malawi had tremendous benefits. And there are so many elements to that that you learn and absorb over time.

--- Carol Spahn

Scott Galloway admires her dedication, noting the courage it takes to leave a comfortable life for such service 1.

   

Embracing Discomfort

Embracing discomfort is a central theme in Carol's narrative, where she argues that true growth occurs outside one's comfort zone. She recounts a pivotal moment when she decided to return to the Peace Corps, driven by a desire to live a life defined by personal values rather than societal norms 3. This philosophy is echoed in her interactions with volunteers, whom she encourages to find purpose and meaning in their service 4.

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.

--- Carol Spahn

Scott Galloway acknowledges the depth and resilience gained through such experiences, highlighting the Peace Corps' role in fostering personal and communal growth 4.