Avsnitt
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What do elite sports and elite entrepreneurship have in common? More than you might think.
In today’s episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with Landon Roberts, a former varsity hockey player and standout participant in the Student Works Management Program, to dive into the mindset, habits, and leadership skills that drive success in both arenas.
Landon opens up about the challenges of balancing a heavy course load, varsity sports, and running a six-figure business through the program—and the crucial lessons he learned about resilience, responsibility, and self-mastery.
If you're looking for real talk on what it takes to overcome setbacks, develop unstoppable grit, and transition from student to leader, this episode is packed with insights you don't want to miss.
Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
Why emotional resilience is the hidden key to long-term successHow elite athletes’ mindsets translate into entrepreneurial excellenceThe hardest challenges Landon faced running his first business—and how he overcame themWhy taking radical responsibility is non-negotiable for leadersHow balancing school, sports, and entrepreneurship sharpened Landon’s time managementThe importance of personal health habits in driving peak performanceWhat leaders must understand about developing teams and navigating setbacksHow Landon plans to triple his business through smarter recruiting and leadershipAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
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How does a Western University student become a leader in biotech venture capital, with over 50 approved products under her belt?
In this episode, Chris Thomson sits down with Michele Doig, partner at Omega Funds, to unpack the winding road from her early days at Student Works to becoming a key investor in life-saving medical breakthroughs. With authenticity and wit, Michele shares the inflection points that shaped her remarkable career—highlighting the mindset shifts, personal values, and strategic relationships that fueled her success.
If you’re curious about how high-stakes decision-making happens behind the scenes in biotech, or wondering what it takes to build a purpose-driven career in finance and innovation—and how the Student Works Management Program can prepare you for that—this episode is for you. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How Michele turned a painting business into a launchpad for a career in high financeWhy strong relationship skills are at the core of syndicating multimillion-dollar biotech dealsWhat it takes to succeed in investment banking and venture capital without a science degreeHow to position companies for long-term investor interest—not just the next round of fundingThe role of serendipity, risk-taking, and saying "yes" to the unexpectedMichele’s perspective on why women in business should own their differenceWhy you shouldn’t be motivated by money—and what to prioritize insteadThe importance of identifying and leaning into your unique superpowerAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
Michele’s LinkedIn
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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What does it take to go from feeling lost and unconfident to becoming one of the top performers in a national leadership program?
In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with Nikos Violetis, a fourth-year Western University student and standout participant in the Student Works Management Program. Nikos opens up about his difficult start in the program, the self-doubt he struggled with, and the learning curve that nearly made him give up. But instead of walking away, he committed to growth, consistency, and trusting the system.
Nikos reflects on how stepping away from distractions allowed him to focus on what mattered most. He shares the strategies that helped him overcome rejection in sales, build trust with clients, and manage a diverse team of student workers. The result? A business that’s on track to triple in size this season.
This episode is packed with honest insights about leadership, entrepreneurship, and personal development. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
What helped Nikos turn things around after a tough start in his first seasonThe mindset shift that helped Nikos handle rejection like a proHow Nikos built a high-trust relationship with his sales repWhat the Student Works program taught Nikos about leadership and self-beliefHow a “low-risk” student business is preparing Nikos for real-world entrepreneurshipWhat personal habits fuel Nikos' energy, focus, and disciplineAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
Nikos’ LinkedIn
Book:
Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams
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What does it take to build a thriving international finance career—and still make time to give back? In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris Thomson sits down with Neil Johnson, a proud Student Works alumnus who went from summer painting manager to CEO of Duke Capital, a publicly traded firm based in England.
Neil shares the pivotal lessons from his early Student Works days—leading a team of 200 at just 22 years old, burning out after his first summer, and learning to work smarter the second time around. He reflects on how those experiences shaped his approach to leadership, culture-building, and risk-taking in high-stakes finance roles at Canaccord Genuity and beyond.
You’ll also hear the story behind how Neil launched Duke Capital from his home office, the unique business model that set them apart, and how long-standing relationships fueled their growth. Plus, he opens up about his work with the Terry Fox Run in London and how giving back has become a new source of purpose.
This is a powerful conversation about resilience, mentorship, and building something meaningful—from both a business and human perspective. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
Why early entrepreneurial experiences can shape your entire careerHow to turn burnout into long-term growthWhat it takes to build and maintain a strong business cultureWhy inspiring others is at the core of effective leadershipHow trusting relationships fuel long-term business successWhy giving back can become your biggest motivatorAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
Neil’s LinkedIn
DukeCapital.com
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How do you go from being a shy student with no standout achievements to one of the top-performing operators in the Student Works Management Program. In this powerful episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson is joined by Esfar Sarker, who shares his inspiring journey of transformation, grit, and growth.
Esfar didn’t arrive with a long resume of accolades. In fact, he was initially rejected from the program. But instead of giving up, he doubled down—working under another operator, gaining hands-on experience, and returning stronger than ever. That persistence paid off. Esfar is now a second-year operator with over $100,000 booked by March and a goal to triple his revenue from last year.
Esfar opens up about overcoming social anxiety, managing unpredictable challenges, and developing the leadership mindset that allowed him to scale his business and himself. From building a reliable team to mastering client relationships, this episode is a deep dive into how character, consistency, and support systems can reshape your trajectory—not just in business, but also in life.
Whether you're just starting out or leveling up, Esfar’s story shows what’s possible when you stop doubting yourself and start showing up every day.
Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How being rejected from the program became the best thing that ever happened to himWhy your first year should be your “learning year”—and how to make the most of itWhat over-recruiting and team building can do to scale your businessHow to manage stress and use it as a driving force, not a roadblockWhat consistent action looks like and why it’s more powerful than bursts of motivationHow confidence in life and school can grow through entrepreneurial experiencesWhy returning for a second year can be a game-changer for personal and business growthThe mindset shift that happens when you stop fearing the hard and start embracing itAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
Esfar’s LinkedIn
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What does it take to transform a history and English major into a global finance leader? In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson chats with Zack Kembar, a Student Works alumnus who has scaled incredible heights in the world of finance.
From his beginnings at Western University to holding top leadership positions at firms like Goldman Sachs, BNP Paribas and Burke Norris Investments, Zack’s journey is a masterclass in adaptability, resilience, and curiosity.
Zack reflects on how his experience with the Student Works Management Program built his foundational skills in time management, goal-setting, and entrepreneurship. He credits the program for teaching him to step out of his comfort zone, develop critical interpersonal skills, and face challenges head-on—lessons that have carried him through an extraordinary career spanning Tokyo, New York, and beyond.
Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How curiosity and persistence can open unexpected career doorsWhy building strong relationships is a key to long-term successThe importance of stepping outside your comfort zone to growHow foundational skills in time management and prioritization can shape your careerWhy learning to embrace challenges at a young age pays lifelong dividendsAnd much more…Resources:
Student Works
Connect with Zach on LinkedIn
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How far can structure and self-discipline really take you? In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with Jadan Hauser, a standout second-year operator in the Student Works Management Program who's rewriting what’s possible as a young entrepreneur.
After working as a window cleaner under a top operator, Jadan stepped into the program already knowing how demanding the role would be. His first season brought in an impressive $160,000 in business, all while transforming his habits, mindset, and personal standards. Now, Jadan’s aiming even higher with a $750,000 goal for the season ahead.
In this conversation, he shares how mastering time management, focusing on leadership, and building a strong team helped him rise from burnout and overwhelm to structure, clarity, and performance. Jadan dives into the importance of momentum, the long-game mindset, and what it really takes to evolve into someone capable of handling high-stakes leadership.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever felt stuck—and wondered what could happen if they fully committed to their growth.
Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How one student used structure and discipline to radically change his lifeWhy building a high-performing team starts with mindset and alignmentHow consistency and time management unlock success in both business and schoolWhat it means to lead through Canadian winters, setbacks, and pressureWhy delayed gratification is the key to thriving as an operatorHow to recover from burnout and regain balance while scaling upWhat sets apart top operators aiming for record-breaking goalsAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
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How do you go from managing your first business as a student to becoming a top leader at one of the world’s most prestigious consulting firms? In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson reconnects with Tina Pan, an associate partner at McKinsey & Company and one of our successful alumni.
Tina shares how her experience in the Student Works Management Program laid the foundation for her remarkable career, teaching her essential lessons in leadership, problem-solving, and resilience. From canvassing neighborhoods to navigating difficult client relationships, Tina’s time with Student Works helped her build the confidence and skills that continue to serve her today.
She reflects on the pivotal moments that challenged her to grow, the importance of mentorship, and the strategies she used to stand out and seize opportunities. Packed with real-world insights and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to accelerate their own leadership journey. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
The pivotal role of mentorship and how it can shape your career trajectoryHow stepping out of your comfort zone leads to personal and professional growthStrategies for standing out and earning the opportunities you wantWhy building strong relationships is key to long-term successLessons on leadership and navigating the complexities of high-performance environmentsAnd much more…Resources:
Student Works
015 | Tina Pan | Inside the Life of a McKinsey Consultant
Connect with Tina Pan on LinkedIn
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What does it take to rise from burnout to breakthrough? In this powerful episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris Thomson sits down with third-year Student Works Management Program operator, Jordan Pereira. Currently leading as the top operator of 2025, Jordan is on a mission to scale his business to $600K this season—and he's well on his way.
Jordan opens up about his early struggles with discipline, burnout, and self-sabotage during his first year in the program. From overwhelming Netflix binges to unhealthy eating habits, Jordan reflects on how he hit rock bottom before discovering the true meaning of personal growth. His turnaround didn’t come from learning a new skill—it came from transforming how he manages his energy, habits, and inner dialogue.
He credits his growth to authentic communication, a relentless commitment to personal development, and surrounding himself with a community of like-minded leaders. From breathwork to business systems, Jordan shares how these changes not only doubled his results but created a culture of excellence within his team.
If you’re looking for raw insight into what it really takes to level up as a leader of tomorrow, this episode is a must-listen. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
Why personal energy is the foundation of effective leadershipHow one operator used transparency to break through shame and burnoutWhat it takes to scale your business while building a high-performing teamHow breathing practices and sleep tracking can impact business performanceWhy surrounding yourself with growth-minded people accelerates successAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
340 | Cam Russelle | Unlocking Peak Performance: The Power of Habits, Celebration, and Connection
Books Mentioned:
Power vs. Force
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What does it take to turn ambition into impact? In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with Chris Reynolds, an accomplished entrepreneur, former McKinsey partner, Founder and Managing Partner of Venn Growth Partners. Chris’s story takes us from his early days in the Student Works Management Program, where he first honed his leadership skills, to the heights of venture capital, where he helps build iconic Canadian brands.
You’ll discover how grit and perseverance defined his journey, why nonlinear career paths can be the most fulfilling, and how he champions a new wave of entrepreneurship in Canada. With insights into what it takes to thrive as an entrepreneur and leader, this episode will challenge you to rethink your own potential and redefine success. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
The mindset shift that sets the foundation for leadership and accountabilityWhy resilience and perseverance matter more than natural talentHow to spot opportunities in unconventional career pathsThe secret to creating a customer-first business that stands out in competitive marketsWhy surrounding yourself with the right people is the ultimate game-changerAnd much more…Resources:
Student Works
173 | Chris Reynolds | A “Peek” into the Incredible Work Culture at KPMG and McKinsey
Follow Chris Reynolds on LinkedIn
Books Mentioned:
Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance
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Every year, the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast highlights the top rookie operators in the Student Works Management Program—the ones who sell the most by the start of March.
In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris Thomson sits down with Callum Lawlor and Mihai Oboroc, the top two rookie operators for 2024.
Callum and Mihai open up about the biggest challenges they've faced and the transformational lessons they’ve learned along the way. From developing time management and organization skills to embracing a leadership mindset, they share how the program has reshaped their approach to business and life.
They also discuss the power of consistency, overcoming self-doubt, and learning to ask for help, and how these skills will serve them in their future careers. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or someone looking to level up, this episode is filled with actionable insights on personal growth, resilience, and high-performance leadership.
Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
Why time management and organization are the foundation of successHow overcoming self-doubt can open doors to new opportunitiesThe value of asking for help and being both a giver and a receiverHow leadership in business extends beyond just managing peopleWhy consistency is the key to long-term successHow surrounding yourself with the right people can fuel growthAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
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How do you transform a record-breaking summer into the foundation for a multimillion-dollar business? In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris Thomson sits down with Amer Abu Shakra, a dynamic entrepreneur and alumnus of the Student Works Management Program.
From breaking a $500,000 business record in the program to founding Contracting.com, a multimillion-dollar business that empowers contractors, Amer’s journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of mentorship.
Amer reflects on the pivotal lessons learned at Student Works, including collaboration, mindset shifts, and building systems for success. He candidly shares the trials of launching Contracting.com, navigating through near-failure to establish a thriving business, and how his experience with Student Works shaped his approach to leadership and innovation.
This episode is filled with practical advice and inspiration for anyone looking to excel in business and life. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How collaboration and mindset are key drivers of successThe role of mentorship and proven systems in building a thriving businessInsights on overcoming failure and transforming challenges into opportunitiesWhy Student Works is the ultimate platform for leadership developmentStrategies for staying grounded and focused on long-term goalsAnd much more…Resources:
Student Works
Contracting.com
Connect with Amer on LinkedIn
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How do you push past your limits and unlock your full potential? In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris Thomson is joined by two remarkable senior operators from the Student Works Management Program—Ariana Varas and Brandon Skubel.
Ariana is in her third year with the program, having started as a painter, crew chief, and production manager before stepping into the role of a mini coach. Brandon, now in his fifth year, leads a high-performing team and aims to break the all-time record for revenue in the program.
Together, they reflect on the personal and professional transformations they’ve experienced through Student Works. From overcoming setbacks to building a culture of belief and support, they discuss how this program helped them grow as leaders—both in business and in life.
They share powerful lessons on personal development, coaching, and investing in others, highlighting how the Student Works program goes beyond business to shape future leaders.
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to lead with purpose while achieving record-breaking success, this episode is packed with invaluable insights from two driven young leaders.
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How focusing on personal development fuels business growthWhy setbacks are the ultimate fuel for long-term successHow building a culture of belief and support elevates teamsThe power of mentorship and the value of having a coach for lifeHow the Student Works experience lays the foundation for success beyond businessWhy betting on yourself is the first step toward becoming a true leaderAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
Books:
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
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Ever wondered how vision and perseverance can shape a billion-dollar career? In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris Thomson speaks with Jamie-Lee Bongard, a successful entrepreneur and a Student Works Management Program alumni.
Jamie-Lee shares how her experience as a 17-year-old in the program laid the foundation for her remarkable journey to owning three Keller Williams franchises and leading over a billion dollars in real estate transactions.
Jamie-Lee discusses the essential skills she developed in Student Works, such as resilience, vision planning, and relationship building, which she continues to use daily in her business and personal life.
From achieving extraordinary success in real estate to balancing her role as a mother of four, Jamie-Lee provides an inspiring and practical guide for aspiring leaders. This episode offers valuable insights on mentorship, time management, and the importance of aligning your goals with your values. Listen now and enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How the Student Works program helped Jamie-Lee build a billion-dollar businessThe role of vision boards and goal setting in achieving career milestonesPractical advice on finding and developing top-tier talent for your teamStrategies for balancing a demanding career with family life and personal growthThe importance of aligning business success with giving back to the communityAnd much more…Resources:
Student Works
Follow Jamie-Lee Bongard on LinkedIn
Books Mentioned:
Think and Grow Rich: The Landmark Bestseller Now Revised and Updated for the 21st Century (Think and Grow Rich Series)
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What separates good leaders from truly exceptional ones? In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with Quinton Carroll and Angela Lister, two standout senior coaches in the Student Works Management Program, to uncover the lessons that transformed them from top-performing operators into influential mentors.
Quinton and Angela discuss the pivotal moments that shaped their leadership journeys, from stepping outside their comfort zones to pushing their limits as entrepreneurs. They reveal how the program helped them develop the confidence, resilience, and skills to guide others toward success. Whether you're looking to level up in business, leadership, or personal growth, this episode is packed with insights that will challenge you to think bigger and achieve more. Listen now and enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How mentorship accelerates personal and professional growthWhy stepping outside your comfort zone builds long-term confidenceThe importance of embracing challenges to unlock your full potentialWhat makes the Student Works program a transformative experienceHow coaching others sharpens leadership and communication skillsAnd much more...Resources:
Student Works
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What does it take to turn adversity into success and build companies that make a positive impact on the world? In this inspiring episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with Payam Zamani, entrepreneur, investor, author, and proud alumnus of the Student Works Management Program.
Payam shares his extraordinary journey from escaping religious persecution in Iran at 16 to co-founding AutoWeb, the first online car marketplace, which went public with a $1.2 billion IPO. He reflects on how his experience with Student Works was a transformative "boot camp" for entrepreneurship, teaching him critical lessons in goal setting, accountability, and execution. Payam also discusses his current role as the founder and CEO of One Planet Group, where he is committed to blending business success with a higher purpose through “spiritual capitalism”.
This episode offers invaluable insights into resilience, leadership, and how aligning business goals with personal values leads to long-term fulfillment. Enjoy!
In This Episode You Will Learn:
How Payam’s experience with the Student Works program helped him become the successful entrepreneur he is todayWhy viewing challenges as opportunities is key to entrepreneurial successHow aligning business with a higher purpose leads to meaningful impact and personal fulfillmentThe importance of leadership rooted in accountability and strategic executionHow spiritual capitalism can merge profit and purpose to improve the worldAnd much more…Resources:
Student Works
Payam’s Linkedin
AutoWeb.com
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How do you go from a disorganized student to a thriving director in mergers and acquisitions? In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris Thomson speaks with Will Malouf, an inspiring alumnus of the Student Works Management program.
Will shares his journey from running a Student Works franchise to becoming a Director at Valsoft, one of the most prominent players in the software acquisition space. His story demonstrates how the skills learned in the program—organization, communication, and leadership—translate into incredible professional success.
Will reflects on the lessons he learned at Student Works, including the importance of building rapport, planning ahead, and managing emotions in high-stakes situations. He shares how these skills gave him a competitive edge in his career and helped him scale new heights in the mergers and acquisitions industry. This episode is packed with insights on how foundational habits, mentorship, and hard work can shape your future. Enjoy!
In This Episode You Will Learn:
How the Student Works program shaped Will’s approach to business and leadershipWhy planning and organization are critical for professional growthThe emotional side of mergers and acquisitions—and how to handle itHow communication and rapport-building can elevate your careerThe importance of focusing on solving real problems in businessAnd much more…Resources:
Student Works
Connect with Will on LinkedIn
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How can one summer completely change your career and life trajectory? In this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris Thomson speaks with Tarik Ali, a successful alumnus of the Student Works Management Program and a standout leader at Accenture.
Tarik shares how his time in the program gave him the courage to take risks, develop trust-centric relationships, and reimagine his career path—all lessons that continue to shape his professional success today.
Tarik dives into his journey from being a high-achieving, risk-averse student to thriving as a consultant and coach at Accenture. He discusses the importance of mentorship, how to embrace calculated risks, and why focusing on others’ needs leads to long-term success.
Through personal stories and reflections, Tarik reveals how the Student Works experience was the foundation for his evolution into a leader dedicated to solving problems and empowering others. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How one summer at Student Works reshaped Tarik’s perspective on career and risk-takingWhy building trust and client-centricity are crucial skills for any leaderThe value of stepping outside traditional career paths to discover personal purposeHow mentorship and coaching can unlock new levels of growth and clarityThe importance of balancing ambition with wellness to achieve sustainable successAnd much more…Resources:
Student Works
Tarik’s LinkedIn
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In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Guy Metcalfe, former Managing Director and Global Chairman of Morgan Stanley, and now a board member for many boards including CBRE Group Inc
During the conversation, Chris and Guy explore the art of building a thriving and cohesive team, highlighting how authentic leadership and a well-nurtured culture drive success. You'll discover the value of leading by example and fostering a sense of community through shared experiences and open communication.
Guy offers reflections on how challenges, including stress, can be harnessed as catalysts for growth and achievement. By sharing personal anecdotes, he illustrates the importance of maintaining perspective, managing stress, and balancing ambition with self-care.
With actionable advice and heartfelt stories, this episode will inspire those striving for excellence to embrace challenges as opportunities, cultivate trust within their teams, and recognize the profound impact of meaningful relationships on long-term success.
Don't miss another episode of The Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
How early career experiences shape long-term success and the foundational lessons learned from managing responsibilities as a young leader. The importance of building trust, fostering strong relationships, and leading by example to create a positive team culture. The value of embracing challenges and stress as motivators, along with practical strategies for stress management, including writing down worries and prioritizing self-care. Why building a business with a focus on quality, trust, and consistency can enable you to charge a premium for your services and grow your reputation.And so much more…Resources:
Guy's LinkedIn
Student Works
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What does it take to grow from a student unsure of their future to a leader in business and entrepreneurship? On this episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris Thomson reconnects with Chris O’Rourke, a remarkable alumnus of the Student Works Management Program, to discuss his inspiring journey.
Chris reflects on how the skills and network he built during his time in the program shaped his career, from managing $300,000 projects as a student to leading high-growth companies in multiple industries.
Chris dives into the pivotal moments that defined his path, including his decision to embrace challenging opportunities and his relentless focus on leadership, team building, and strategy. He shares actionable insights on the importance of mentorship, avoiding complacency, and creating innovative solutions for emerging market needs. This episode is packed with lessons for anyone looking to scale their impact and lead with purpose. Enjoy!
In This Episode You'll Learn:
How the Student Works Management Program builds essential skills for leadership and successWhy networking and mentorship can open doors to life-changing opportunitiesThe mindset and work ethic required to thrive as an entrepreneurStrategies for staying ahead by focusing on innovation and emerging market needsThe key habits that define great leaders and problem-solversAnd much more…Resources:
Student Works
Connect with Chris O'Rourke on LinkedIn
077 | Chris O’Rourke | How to Discover and Find Success in Emerging Markets
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