273: Listen to the Compass of Your Heart: Choosing a Life of Service with Dr. SD Shanti
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273: Listen to the Compass of Your Heart
Have you ever heard an inner voice urging you toward a path that seems like a distraction, but feels deeply true? In this week’s episode of Work from the Inside Out, I had the joy of sitting down with my colleague and friend Dr. SD Shanti. She has followed that inner voice several times and it has taken her on a rich and rewarding career journey.
SD started her career in pediatric dentistry and academia, and then stepped away from her clinical practice and teaching to pursue a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. The combination of her experience in science, education and psychology spurred her on to earn a master’s degree in public health. Today, she is the Founder of the World Love Forum, an organization dedicated to promoting mental health and violence prevention. Her journey is a profound example of what it looks like to align your career and life with your core values and deepest callings.
During our conversation, SD shared the importance of listening to your inner guidance—what she calls the “compass of the heart”. It’s not always easy. She made several distinct decisions to shift her career that did not make sense to others looking from the outside. But from the inside? They were essential.
I was struck by her reflections on stillness—how creating quiet space can help us hear what truly matters. Whether you're feeling stuck in your work, contemplating a career change, or simply longing for more meaning, SD’s message is clear: your heart often knows the way.
What inspired me most about SD is how she blends several disciplines—science, psychology, and public health work—into a cohesive life of purpose. She’s a powerful reminder that we don’t have to choose between disciplines or passions. We can integrate them.
SD’s work with the World Love Forum creatively blends research-based psychology and public health strategies with entertainment education, animated storytelling, and additional resources to reach people across cultures and continents.
In this week’s Work From The Inside Out podcast, learn more about:
What it means to truly listen to your heart—and act on it
SD’s journey from pediatric dentistry to clinical psychology to global public health
How the World Love Forum came to life
The power of entertainment education to promote healing and prevention
Why discomfort is part of growth—and how to move through it with intention
Learn more about Dr. S.D. Shanti:
Visit: worldloveforum.org
Sign up for her newsletter
Check out her meditation videos
Interested in individual or group coaching with Tammy? Learn more about her coaching service.
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About Tammy, host of
Work from the inside out
Prior to establishing her practice, Tammy held a variety of positions in mental health services, higher education administration, public policy analysis and fundraising. Her practical knowledge and experience in organizational development, program management and business operations builds a relatable relationship with clients striving for higher performance results.