Wired This Way: Intrinsic Motivation is Key to a Squiggly Career with Shawn Thornton

Wired This Way: Intrinsic Motivation is Key to a Squiggly Career with Shawn Thornton

April 8, 2026 · 36 min

About this episode

This episode explores the concept of untraditional careers through a conversation with Shawn Thornton about intrinsic motivation and non-linear career paths.

What actually counts as an “untraditional” career? At Embrace the Squiggle, that definition is constantly evolving—and this episode is proof that there’s no one way to build a meaningful career. This week, Colleen and Ashleigh sit down with Shawn Thornton, founder and CEO of SmartBiz IT, to explore what it really looks like to follow a non-linear path fueled by intrinsic motivation and continuous learning. Shawn’s career isn’t built on a rigid plan—it’s driven by curiosity, growth, and a mind...

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