In a heartfelt episode of The Beacon Show, we welcomed Davin Salvagno, a speaker, author, and leadership expert. Known for his insights on purpose and faith, Davin’s journey is a remarkable blend of challenges, resilience, and surrender to God’s plan. His story reminds us that purpose is not found in a single moment but in the thread of experiences that shape us.
Davin began his story by revisiting his childhood on the East Coast, where his life was marked by instability. The eldest of five children, he navigated the upheaval of his parent’s divorce and a move from Philadelphia to Michigan during his senior year of high school. “It was disruptive,” Davin recalls, describing how his identity was tied to his roots in Philadelphia. Yet, even in these challenging times, seeds of purpose were being planted.
Watch Davin’s full interview on YouTube!
A Leadership Calling Born in Humility
Despite struggles, Davin excelled academically and initially dreamed of becoming a teacher, inspired by the stability educators had provided in his turbulent youth. However, God had other plans. A pivotal moment occurred when he joined Costco Wholesale, starting as a cashier despite his managerial experience. “I felt a nudge to humble myself,” he shares, acknowledging how this decision laid the foundation for his growth in leadership.
Davin quickly rose through the ranks at Costco, not by seeking success for himself but by asking one simple question: How can I help? This attitude caught the attention of Jim Sinegal, Costco’s founder, whose humility and servant leadership left a lasting impact on Davin. Sinegal’s genuine interest in Davin’s dreams sparked a realization: great leaders are deeply invested in the growth of others.
From Life's Disruptions to God's Direction
At 24, after years of distancing himself from God, Davin experienced a spiritual awakening. “God recaptured my heart,” he says, as he began to see purpose in the seemingly disconnected pieces of his life. This surrender marked a turning point, allowing him to embrace both professional success and personal fulfillment.
A defining moment came when Davin was offered a dream job in Philadelphia—higher pay and proximity to family. Yet, he felt a “holy discontent,” sensing that God was asking him to stay in Michigan. Reluctantly, he obeyed. Three months later, at a church group, he met the woman who would become his wife. Reflecting on this, Davin notes, “Sometimes, God’s plans don’t make sense in the moment, but they’re always better.”
Guiding Others Toward a Life of Purpose
Despite doubts and the temptation of secular success, Davin’s journey has been one of equipping others to live with intention. As the founder of PurposePoint and the creator of the Purpose Summit, he helps leaders bridge the gap between professional ambition and personal significance. His two books, Finding Purpose at Work and Thieves of Purpose encapsulate lessons learned from his own walk.
“The world conditions us for success, but we were created for significance,” Davin explains. His mission is to guide people from chasing accolades to embracing a life of impact. His humility shines in his acknowledgment that he continues to wrestle with the very challenges he writes about, making his approach relatable and authentic.
Davin’s story offers soul-searching takeaways for anyone seeking to align their faith and purpose:
- Be Fully Present – Purpose is found in the moments we are fully engaged. “The more you’re present, the more fulfilled you become,” Davin emphasizes.
- Choose to Surrender – True greatness often requires letting go of what feels comfortable. “Sometimes, we cling to good plans when God has something greater,” he reminds us.
- Lead with Grace and Service – Inspired by mentors like Jim Sinegal, Davin models servant leadership, proving that lasting influence comes from lifting others.
A Legacy Rooted in Faith
Davin Salvagno’s life is a testament to the transformative power of faith, purpose, and surrender. From his early days of instability to his impactful leadership today, his story inspires us to seek God’s guidance in every step. As Davin says, “The best decision is the one that God is in.”
By living with intention and humility, Davin exemplifies how we can not only find our purpose but also help others discover theirs.
About Davin Salvagno
Davin Salvagno is a purpose-driven leader whose journey from an unstable childhood in Philadelphia to becoming a voice for authentic leadership and purpose has shaped his mission to help others find meaning in their work and life. After a transformative experience at Costco, where a pivotal meeting with founder Jim Sinegal shaped his leadership philosophy, Davin spent nearly two decades in various leadership roles before founding PurposePoint and launching The Purpose Summit. He is the bestselling author of “Finding Purpose at Work,” and his upcoming book “Thieves of Purpose” (releasing February 2025) addresses the mindsets that prevent people from stepping into their full potential. Through his work, Davin emphasizes that success should never come at the cost of significance and that being present in each moment is more valuable than building a legacy. Originally from Philadelphia, Davin recently relocated to Charlotte, NC, with his wife Amy of 17 years, their two children, and their Golden Retriever, Brinkley. His authentic approach to leadership and purpose, grounded in faith and humility, has made him a trusted voice for organizations and leaders seeking to make a meaningful impact in their spheres of influence.
Resources Mentioned
“Finding Purpose at Work” by Davin Salvagno
“The Thieves of Purpose” by Davin Salvagno
“Halftime” by Bob Buford
The Purpose Summit (Annual event in Charlotte)
