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In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Steve Tchejeyan, President of Island, an enterprise browser maker.
During the conversation, Matt and Steve explore the challenges and lessons learned from navigating high-pressure environments, where success hinges on adaptability and forward-thinking. Steve shares personal experiences of realizing the importance of maintaining momentum, even when things seem to be going well. A moment of panic serves as a turning point, underscoring the necessity of planning ahead and ensuring that opportunities don’t dry up unexpectedly.
You'll hear about the long-term impact of early career sacrifices. Hard work and relentless commitment often come at a personal cost, yet they shape the foundation for future success. Steve opens up about the emotional weight of reflecting on years spent grinding, particularly the realization of time lost with loved ones.
This episode serves as both a reflection on past hardships and a testament to the lasting impact of unwavering determination.
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What You Will Learn In This Show:
The importance of balancing work and education, and why Steve wishes he had found a better balance during his high school and college years.Steve's transition from inside sales at a software company to leadership roles and his involvement in private equity and startups.The significance of self-reflection and understanding one's interests to achieve long-term success.Some of the toughest challenges Steve has faced in his career, including taking a company private during COVID-19.And so much more...Resources:
Island
Steve's LinkedIn
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In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, guest host Sean Phelps is joined by Eric Rose, a former Procter & Gamble executive, now the founder and CEO of Sprints Running Apparel.
During the conversation, Eric shares the evolution of his entrepreneurial journey, balancing the demands of a high-profile corporate career with the drive to build a personal brand from the ground up. Navigating the challenges of scaling a business while managing the complexities of an established company, he reflects on pivotal moments that shaped their approach to business and leadership.
You'll hear about the critical lessons learned early in Eric's career, highlighting the importance of sales, execution, and P&L management. Drawing from experiences that span both corporate and entrepreneurial worlds, he shares how a mix of hard work and learning from failure can fuel success.
From fitness routines to setting clear priorities, this episode reveals how Eric's day-to-day practices contribute to his ability to lead effectively and manage his growing brand.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
Eric's early career at Procter and Gamble, starting during the financial crisis, and the opportunities he had to work on various brands. The challenges of managing a small brand, including limited buying power and the impact of COVID-19.The benefits and challenges of being an entrepreneur, including the ability to create a culture and the need for constant learning.The impact of the College Works program on Eric's career, including the friendships and mentorship he's gained.And so much more...Resources:
Sprints Running Apparel
Eric's LinkedIn
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Grayson Bierling, a former member of the College Works program.
During the conversation, Grayson shares his journey of returning to a familiar industry with a fresh perspective, embracing the challenges of learning the trade from the ground up. Rather than taking shortcuts, he immerses himself in the intricacies of operations, regulations, and problem-solving, recognizing that true leadership comes from firsthand experience.
You'll hear how he’s developed a sharp eye for identifying inefficiencies, drawing from past roles where quick thinking and strategic execution made all the difference. Grayson explores the importance of analyzing a business’s long-term viability, asking the hard questions about sustainability and evolution.
This conversation will leave you with a thought-provoking perspective on what it truly means to build something lasting—whether in business, leadership, or personal development.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
The importance of high intention and the choices Grayson has made to set himself up for success. His initial struggles with sales in the College Works program and how he persevered and improved with help.Grayson's return to the family business after completing the College Works program, as well as the value of innovation in finding ways to grow the business.The importance of knowing the business inside and out to make informed decisions and drive growth.And so much more...
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In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Ellen Pais, Executive Director of Pretend City Children's Museum.
During the conversation, Matt and Ellen discuss bold, unconventional approaches to solving community challenges, highlighting the power of creativity and collaboration. Ellen shares insights into how innovative thinking can drive real change, bringing people together in unexpected ways.
You'll discover the complexities of leadership and the art of rallying support for meaningful initiatives. From securing critical funding to fostering deep relationships, the discussion sheds light on what it takes to turn big visions into reality. Ellen’s journey reveals valuable lessons about persistence, influence, and the importance of staying true to one’s mission, even when faced with obstacles.
With an energetic and heartfelt exchange, the episode leaves audiences with a renewed appreciation for the impact of bold leadership and the importance of investing in both community and personal growth.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
The influence of nurture and nature on Helen's development and her commitment to advocacy from a young age.The significance of aligning one's career with personal values and the impact of making a difference in the community. The responsibilities of an executive director, including managing the big picture, details, and the overall success of the organization.The unique approach of Pretend City in providing a hands-on learning experience for children, fostering social interaction and real-world skills.And so much more...Resources:
Pretend City Children's Museum
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In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Bobby Bourguignon, an alumnus of the College Works program.
During the conversation, Bobby shares how they navigated the early stages of his career, experimenting with different paths before finding one that sparked genuine excitement. The discussion explores the importance of passion in professional growth, while also acknowledging that not every day will be easy—sometimes, perseverance through difficult seasons is what ultimately leads to lasting fulfillment.
You'll hear about the impact of personal relationships and daily habits on long-term success. Bobby reflects on the difficult but necessary decision to change his social circle, surrounding Himself with individuals who inspire and challenge him. You'll also learn the critical role of health and self-discipline, emphasizing that personal well-being directly affects motivation, productivity, and overall happiness.
This episode offers a powerful metaphor about diving beneath the surface, encouraging you to embrace deeper conversations, take meaningful risks, and push yourself toward greater self-awareness.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
Bobby's experience with College Works, a tough internship that taught him valuable lessons and that he calls the hardest year of his life, both physically and mentally.The challenges of working remotely and the impact on his mental health and substance abuse issues.The importance of choosing the right partners and having a clear value proposition.The lessons Bobby has learned from his challenges and how they have shaped his current mindset and approach to life.And so much more...
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In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Matt Hickman, a video content creator.
You'll hear Matt's compelling journey of discovery, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit. Faced with a crossroads in life, he embraced a bold challenge — venturing into the unknown with nothing but raw determination and an eagerness to learn. His story unfolds through moments of uncertainty, rejection, and self-doubt, yet it is precisely these obstacles that fuel their relentless pursuit of success.
Gain insights into the mindset shifts and daily disciplines that separate dreamers from doers. Matt emphasizes the importance of taking action over endless preparation, learning by doing rather than waiting for the perfect opportunity. He reveals how a simple yet strategic approach—leveraging persistence, resourcefulness, and a willingness to fail—opened doors they never imagined possible.
With lessons that apply far beyond one's own field, this episode serves as a reminder that success often comes down to one key factor: the willingness to show up and put in the work, every single day.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
Matt's college journey, starting as a mechanical engineer and then switching to computer science. How Matt started using a camera for fun and saw it as a potential business opportunity. How an 'all-in' mentality helped him figure things out quickly and achieve his goal of making enough money to live in San Diego.The importance of consistency and effort in achieving excellence.And so much more...
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In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Hirad Emadi, co-founder and President of Innovative Construction Solutions.
During this engaging conversation, Matt explores the journey of a successful entrepreneur who transitioned from a stable career to launching a thriving business. Hirad highlights the importance of identifying gaps in the market and consistently adding value, which can lead to repeat business and long-term success.
You'll discover the dynamics of partnerships in business, as well as the benefits and potential pitfalls of working with partners. Gain insights on how compromise and shared values are crucial for a successful partnership, and how different approaches can lead to various outcomes.
This episode provides a rich tapestry of experiences and lessons for anyone interested in the entrepreneurial journey.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
Why consistently adding value and addressing gaps in service can lead to repeat business and long-term success.The dynamics of business partnerships, including the benefits of compromise and shared values, and how different approaches can impact the success of a venture.Achieving balance between a demanding career and personal life, and the importance of family and community involvement.The value of developing essential skills like people skills and writing skills early in your career, and how these can contribute to long-term success.The concept that passion can emerge from hard work and success, even in areas you weren't initially passionate about, and the importance of staying open to new passions.And so much more...Resources:
Hirad's LinkedIn
Innovative Construction Solutions
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In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Brad Baldridge, certified financial planner, college funding consultant, and chief podcaster at Taming the High Cost of College.
Matt and Brad explore the multifaceted process of preparing for an important milestone that affects many families—paying for college. They discuss various strategies and options available to navigate this complex landscape, as well as the importance of understanding different types of support and how they can impact overall outcomes.
You'll discover the specific challenges faced by those in unique situations, such as owning a business or dealing with unexpected financial changes. You'll also find insights on how to leverage available resources and make strategic choices to optimize benefits.
Whether dealing with financial aid, merit-based awards, or other types of support, this episode provides valuable guidance for anyone facing this pivotal stage in life.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
The differences between need-based aid and merit-based aid, and how to identify which type of aid you might qualify for.Why top-tier schools like Harvard and Yale often do not offer merit aid and focus solely on need-based aid, and how this can affect your financial planning.Specific strategies for business owners to manage their finances and maximize aid eligibility, including tax benefits and income management.The importance of finding a college where you will thrive, and how this decision can outweigh the prestige of attending a more expensive institution.Practical advice on leveraging available resources, doing thorough research, and making informed decisions to achieve long-term success in your educational journey.And so much more...Resources:
Taming the High Cost of College
Baldridge College Solutions
Brad's LinkedIn
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In this episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Darton Case, owner and CEO of Dart Appraisal Services.
They discuss the challenges and triumphs faced in building a lasting business. Darton offers insights on having a long-term vision, emphasizing how critical it is for entrepreneurs to diversify and not rely too heavily on a single client or market.
You'll discover the evolution of Darton's role from a hands-on entrepreneur to a CEO who empowers his team to take the reins. The conversation explores the importance of continuous learning and the value of being part of a supportive peer group.
Darton also touches on the sacrifices and decisions that shaped his path, particularly the intense focus and work ethic required in his 20s, as well as the significance of finding a career that aligns with one's passions and strengths.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
The difficulties entrepreneurs face, including the statistic that 90% of businesses fail within the first few years.How Darton's company expanded statewide and then nationally by diversifying their client base and focusing on service excellence.Darton's commitment to continuous learning through organizations like EO, where he gained insights from peers facing similar challenges.How strategic acquisitions are crucial in overcoming stagnation and regulatory challenges in Darton's industry.And so much more...Resources:
Dart Appraisal Services
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In this episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Ryan Coon, entrepreneur and former CEO / co-owner of Avail.
Ryan outlines some of the invaluable lessons learned from his early career experiences. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships and networking, particularly how connections made during internships and college can lead to unexpected opportunities later in life.
You'll learn about the serendipity of reconnecting with former colleagues and mentors in various professional contexts, illustrating the long-term benefits of maintaining a robust professional network.
Ryan reflects on the journey of growing his business from a small startup to a thriving company, the strategies that led to their success, and the importance of being intentional and deliberate with one's time and efforts.
You'll also get a glimpse into the high-stakes world of acquisitions, detailing the unique process Ryan underwent when his company caught the interest of major industry players.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
How connections made during internships and college can lead to significant professional opportunities in the future.Strategies for being deliberate and intentional with your time to achieve high performance in your professional endeavors.The importance of maintaining confidence and persistence in the face of rejection, and understanding it as part of the journey to success.The value of building optionality in your career and business decisions, ensuring you have multiple paths and opportunities available.And so much more...Resources:
Ryan's LinkedIn
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In this episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Madi McSwain, an insurance agent with Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance.
Madi shares her unique journey and the strategies she has employed to achieve success in her professional life. She emphasizes the importance of relationship-building, strategic planning, and maintaining a customer-focused approach.
You'll discover the challenges Madi encountered in her early days starting from scratch, the sacrifices she made, and the relentless work ethic that drove her to the top. Be inspired by her story of perseverance, dedication, and the strategic choices that have defined her career.
You'll also get a glimpse into the impact of supportive relationships and how Madi's upbringing and the encouragement from loved ones have played a pivotal role in her achievements.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
The advantages of being a multi-line agent and how it simplifies clients’ insurance needs, making it cost-effective and easier to manage.The challenges and rewards of starting as a scratch agent, focusing on new business development, and transitioning to managing a book of business through referrals.The value of giving back and helping others, inspired by the guest’s own experiences and the positive impact of her internship.The career progression within the insurance industry and the skills and attitudes necessary to advance from entry-level to higher responsibilities.And so much more...Resources:
Madi's LinkedIn
Indiana Farm Bureau Insurance
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In this engaging episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by David Renberg, a successful entrepreneur who started his own real estate brokerage at a remarkably young age.
Throughout the conversation, David reflects on his journey, offering insights and advice based on his experiences. He shares key moments of growth and realization, touching on topics like work-life balance, team building, and the importance of perspective in handling challenges.
You'll take a journey through David's career, from the early days of starting his brokerage to his present-day successes. The discussion also dives into the mindset required to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship, as well as the importance of staying grounded and focused on long-term goals.
David's story will resonate with anyone seeking to make a positive impact, showcasing the power of perseverance and the value of building meaningful connections in both business and life.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
The core values of David's business, emphasizing integrity, excellence, and kindness.How hiring the right staff and delegating tasks effectively has helped him grow his business and maintain a better work-life balance.David's advice to his younger self: to not stress over every detail and task.David's insights from the book "What's Best Next" by Matt Perman, highlighting the concept of scheduling your day at 70% capacity.Why David believes his greatest impact may come from his influence on others, particularly his children and those he mentors.And so much more...Resources:
Foundation Realty
David's LinkedIn
What's Best Next book
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In this engaging episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Mason Lindsay, a promising young entrepreneur, exploring the journey of career discovery and personal growth.
Mason reflects on the pressures and misconceptions surrounding the need to determine a lifelong career path early on, contrasting it with the more realistic approach of exploring various opportunities. You'll discover insights on how a mindset of appreciation and gratitude can open doors and create opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Mason also offers insights on the importance of surrounding oneself with inspiring and supportive individuals. Throughout this insightful conversation, you'll learn to embrace a mindset of continuous improvement and to recognize the potential that lies in gratitude, sacrifice, and supportive relationships.
Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
The misconception that people need to know what they want to do for the rest of their lives early on.The importance of making sacrifices, such as giving up leisure activities like playing Xbox, to achieve long-term goals.The importance of effort, bravery, and adherence to high standards in generating further success.The value of surrounding oneself with motivated and successful individuals to provide guidance and support.Why taking on responsibility, such as managing and inspiring a team, can make it easier to make sacrifices and stay committed to goals.And so much more...
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On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Grace Jones as they discuss her professional journey and the significance of internships and diverse work experiences in shaping her career. She reflects on how college internships, particularly those that allowed her to run her own business, provided her with the freedom and guidance to explore and succeed in the business world. Grace highlights how these opportunities equipped her with the skills necessary to navigate and thrive in various industries, emphasizing that if the right opportunities aren't available, one should take initiative to create them.
Grace's path took an interesting turn when she moved into a role in entertainment sales at Back Nine, a company distinct from her original career aspirations in the music industry. Her role involves crafting unique event experiences, requiring her to leverage high-level communication and problem-solving skills to meet diverse client needs. This role has not only allowed her to refine her sales and management skills but has also positioned her strategically for lateral moves within the entertainment and music industries. Grace underscores the importance of adapting and transferring skills across different fields to achieve one's career goals.
The conversation also explores personal challenges Grace has faced, particularly her recovery from multiple hip surgeries during college, which forced her to pause her career pursuits temporarily. This period of forced inactivity provided her with valuable time for self-reflection and personal growth, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability. Grace discusses how surrounding herself with supportive people and engaging in activities that brought her joy helped her navigate these challenges effectively. She concludes with reflections on the sacrifices made during her college years, noting that while she may have missed out on typical college experiences, the choices she made were instrumental in setting her up for future success.
Join Matt and Grace for this fascinating episode.
Enjoy!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
How college internships provide the freedom and structure to create your own business, book clients, and shape your professional path under expert guidance.The importance of lateral movement in a career, how to combine passion with professional success, and the significance of taking on different roles to gain diverse experiences that prepare you for your ultimate career goals.How facing and overcoming personal challenges, like managing multiple surgeries, can contribute to personal growth, better self-awareness, and professional clarity.How selling techniques can vary significantly between industries like home services and entertainment, and why mastering these can be crucial to career advancement in sales.How critical listening, communication, and problem-solving skills are developed through real-world experience, not just classroom learning, and how these skills apply across various job roles and industries.The sacrifices made during formative years and how these choices, often in lieu of typical leisure activities, set the stage for future professional achievements and satisfaction.And so much more...
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On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Sishir Reddy, CEO and co-founder of Episource, as he shares his entrepreneurial journey, detailing the challenges and pivotal moments that shaped his career. Initially inspired by his father's suggestion to explore medical billing, Sishir set out to establish a medical billing outsourcing business in India. With his father's practice as his first client, he learned the intricacies of the industry and gradually built a team, starting with his first employee, Gopi. The business slowly expanded as Sishir leveraged his network of doctors in Southern California, a strategy that eventually led to a significant turning point when he was introduced to a larger managed care organization. This connection allowed him to pivot from medical billing to risk adjustment coding services, recognizing a niche market with greater growth potential.
Sishir's journey underscores the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities. After realizing the complexities and limitations of managing a medical billing business, he and his partners decided to focus entirely on the burgeoning field of risk adjustment coding for health plans. This strategic pivot paid off, leading to rapid growth and the eventual shutdown of their initial business model. By 2008, the company was thriving, and by maintaining a disciplined, bootstrapped approach, they reached significant revenue milestones without outside capital. Sishir also navigated complex partnership dynamics, bringing on his partner's son-in-law, whose finance and operational expertise complemented his strengths in sales and strategy. This collaboration proved crucial in scaling the business to new heights.
Ultimately, Sishir's decision to sell the business to UnitedHealth Group marked the culmination of his entrepreneurial efforts. Post-exit, he faced a period of adjustment, grappling with a sense of loss and seeking new directions. This introspective phase led him to prioritize family time and philanthropic endeavors, focusing on education and healthcare within his community. Embracing a mentor and advisor role, Sishir aims to leverage his extensive experience to support emerging businesses and make a positive impact. His story is a testament to the power of resilience, strategic pivots, and the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of changing circumstances.
Join Matt and Sishir for this fascinating episode.
Enjoy!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
How Sishir recognized the opportunity to pivot from medical billing to risk adjustment coding services for health plans.The importance of identifying and adapting to new market opportunities.The advantages of maintaining a bootstrapped mentality, generating positive cash flow and reinvesting in the business to drive growth without relying on outside capital.The value of leveraging complementary skills in business partnerships.The challenges and strategies for managing fast-paced growth in a business.The risks and rewards of involving family members in business, and how Sishir balanced family ties with professional responsibilities.The considerations and strategic thinking involved in deciding to sell a business.The emotional challenges that can follow after exiting a business and strategies for finding new purpose and direction.How Sishir transitioned from business to philanthropic efforts, giving back to the community and supporting local initiatives in education and healthcare.And so much more...Resources:
Episource
Sishir's...
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On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Jeff Gunhus, a seasoned entrepreneur, to discuss the concept of excellence and business leadership. Jeff defines excellence as a deliberate choice to pursue the best version of oneself across all life's endeavors, stressing the importance of being both content and driven. Throughout their conversation, Jeff shares insights from his journey of building a successful business empire, emphasizing the pivotal role of making strategic choices, even when they entail personal sacrifices, such as missing out on leisure activities to focus on career growth.
The discussion then pivots to Jeff's entrepreneurial experiences, where he elaborates on transitioning his business model in response to unforeseen challenges, such as regulatory changes and market dynamics. This shift notably involved downsizing from $6 million to $1.6 million in revenue, which set the stage for a remarkable recovery and growth trajectory, demonstrating resilience and adaptability. Jeff highlights the critical role of team building and maintaining a brand that genuinely resonates with both employees and customers, fostering a culture of high performance and mutual respect.
Towards the end of the episode, Jeff and Matt explore the importance of aligning personal values with professional endeavors, which ensures sustained passion and commitment. Jeff shares personal anecdotes, including his family's involvement in community service, illustrating how personal values deeply influence professional actions and company culture. The episode concludes with Jeff reflecting on the sacrifices made during his career, reinforcing that short-term trade-offs can lead to long-term rewards, encapsulating the podcast's theme of striving towards excellence through thoughtful decision-making and persistent effort.
Join Matt and Jeff for this fascinating episode.
Enjoy!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
How excellence is not about being the best in the field but striving to be the best version of oneself.How to transition from small-scale successes to major brand building, and the importance of vision in scaling businesses effectively.How effective partnerships are crucial and how mutual understanding and shared goals strengthen business relationships.Jeff's experiences of balancing career ambitions with personal life, providing a blueprint for managing professional growth without compromising personal relationships.The long-term impacts of early career choices and the importance of international exposure and adapting to various cultural environments.The resilience businesses require to adapt to external changes, like regulatory shifts, and how these can be opportunities for significant growth.How a company's values and culture contribute to its success, and how to integrate personal values into your business practices for holistic success.Insights into taking full ownership of one’s actions and decisions in business, promoting a leadership style that fosters accountability and growth.The significance of finding joy in one’s professional journey, regardless of the challenges faced, which can lead to a more fulfilling career and life.And so much more...Resources:
Home Genius Exteriors
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On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by guest Kory Finley, as they focus on Kory's journey to personal and professional excellence. The discussion opens with Kory sharing his definition of excellence as the consistent effort to perform at one's best every day, regardless of the circumstances. Kory narrates his life story, from being a multi-sport athlete in high school to entering the challenging world of business and cattle ranching. He emphasizes the importance of taking personal responsibility and learning from setbacks to propel oneself towards success.
During the discussion, Kory discusses his time in college and his early career, particularly his involvement with College Works, where he excelled as a freshman intern. His success was partly due to his competitive nature and the desire to be recognized as the best. Kory reflects on the moments that shaped his career, including significant sales achievements and the strategic decisions he made, like turning down financial support from his parents to foster independence and avoid any potential for guilt-driven influence.
Kory's philosophy revolves around ownership and responsibility, believing that these are critical to achieving excellence. He shares how confronting and overcoming challenges, like dealing with customer complaints and leading teams, were invaluable learning experiences. Throughout the episode, Kory and Matt highlight the importance of making deliberate choices about how to spend one's time and the value of investing in meaningful activities and relationships that promote personal growth and success.
Join Matt and Kory for this fascinating episode.
Enjoy!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
Kory's definition of excellence as the persistent effort to perform at your best daily, regardless of external conditions.The importance of taking ownership of problems and failures as a key strategy for personal and professional growth.How early job experiences, such as working in concrete construction and cattle ranching, shaped Kory’s work ethic and success.Why Kory attributes his success to a competitive disposition, striving to be the best in his endeavors.His experience of setting a high sales record as a goal, illustrating the power of high aspirations.Turning setbacks into learning opportunities, and how to convert failures into stepping stones toward success.The importance of financial independence from family to avoid guilt-driven decisions.The importance of investing time wisely and making choices that align with long-term goals.And so much more...
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On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Sean Phelps, as they explore the concept of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of gaining practical experiences outside traditional educational pathways. Sean reflects on his journey, highlighting his involvement with College Works, where he developed essential business skills by managing teams and projects while still in college. He shares insights about the value of real-world applications of business concepts, advising aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on technical skills in college and seek out entrepreneurial experiences in the broader world, using resources like the Kauffman Foundation and Y Combinator.
During the discussion, Sean elaborates on his career trajectory, including the tough decisions he faced when offered a full-time position that conflicted with his existing commitments. He shares a critical turning point where he chose to prioritize his role at College Works, attributing his professional skills and opportunities to the experiences he gained there. This choice led to him eventually being fired from the FinTech company he was involved with, underscoring the challenges and sacrifices inherent in balancing multiple career paths and the unpredictable nature of startup environments.
Matt and Sean also explore the personal aspects of entrepreneurship, discussing the integration of work, family, and personal life. Sean credits his entrepreneurial flexibility with allowing him to commit time to family and personal interests, advocating for a balanced life where work does not overshadow other responsibilities. They conclude by stressing the importance of building a solid reputation through hard work and reliability, which in turn fosters professional relationships and opens up opportunities for future ventures and collaborations.
Join Matt and Sean for this fascinating episode.
Enjoy!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
How hands-on experience in the field can surpass traditional education paths for aspiring entrepreneurs.Why challenging economic times, such as the 2008 financial crisis, can serve as the best periods to hone entrepreneurial skills and lead businesses.How adapting to circumstances by working smarter and harder can set a foundation for success.Strategies for managing a successful career while maintaining strong family ties and personal wellbeing.How entrepreneurship offers the flexibility to prioritize life events without sacrificing professional growth.How past failures and humility in leadership can enhance team performance and drive better results.The importance of empowering team members by recognizing their potential to surpass your achievements.How strategic time investment in work, relationships, and hobbies can lead to a more fulfilled and balanced life.The concept of 'investing time' vs. 'spending time,' and how this perspective can lead to more effective personal and professional life management.And so much more...
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On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by entrepreneur Steve Kearley, from Benson Kearley Insurance as they discuss the elements of success, the entrepreneurial mindset, and personal growth through business endeavors. Steve shares his journey from selling designer jeans out of his high school locker to becoming a prominent figure in the insurance industry. He emphasizes the significance of self-measurement and personal growth over comparing oneself to others, highlighting how his definition of excellence has evolved over the years. Steve's narrative is peppered with insights on overcoming societal expectations and focusing on one's strengths and unique abilities.
Throughout the discussion, Steve stresses the importance of networking, not in the traditional sense of merely exchanging business cards, but in building meaningful, reciprocal relationships without immediate expectations. This approach to networking, according to Steve, involves connecting people, helping others without a direct benefit to oneself, and ultimately, building a network based on trust and mutual respect. Both Steve and Matt reflect on their experiences within the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO), underscoring how such networks have facilitated their business growth and personal development.
The conversation also delves into Steve's strategic approach to his insurance business, where he shifted focus from traditional metrics to providing real value to customers through educational seminars and resources that go beyond insurance. This value-driven approach helped differentiate his company in a competitive market. Steve's commitment to his team and ethical business practices, even post-business sale, reflects his dedication to ensuring the welfare of his employees and maintaining a legacy of integrity and trust. This episode not only explores the nuances of entrepreneurial success but also provides practical advice for personal and professional growth.
Join Matt and Steve for this fascinating episode.
Enjoy!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
How excellence isn't about surpassing others but measuring personal growth over time, understanding and leveraging your unique abilitiesThe true value of networking: building authentic relationships and helping others without expecting something in return, rather than merely exchanging contacts for personal gain.Embracing failures as learning opportunities, fostering resilience, and continuous personal development.The characteristics that often define entrepreneurs, such as a dislike for being employed, the necessity for freedom, and the ability to see and seize opportunities for innovation and leadership.How to differentiate your business in a competitive market by providing additional value beyond the core services, using Steve’s approach in the insurance industry as a model.How setting and adhering to clear company values can simplify decision-making processes and contribute to long-term business success.Advice for young entrepreneurs on setting and sharing goals, the importance of mentorship, and why it's vital to understand and align with your core values.And so much more...Resources:
Benson Kearley IFG
Steve's LinkedIn
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On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Brett Apel as he shares his journey from a college student to becoming an entrepreneur and business executive. Bret emphasizes the importance of hard work, continuous learning, and pushing boundaries to achieve success. He discusses his initial uncertainty about his career path and how his experience with College Works Painting opened the door to entrepreneurship, teaching him valuable business and life skills. Bret's story is a testament to the idea that with the right mindset and work ethic, one can turn challenges into opportunities and achieve remarkable success at a young age.
The conversation explores the concept of excellence, exploring how Bret's definition of excellence as a constant pursuit of self-improvement and challenging oneself has propelled him forward. They highlight the importance of resilience, open-mindedness, and taking ownership of one's actions to overcome obstacles and seize opportunities. Bret stresses the significance of not resting on past laurels but instead, using previous successes as a foundation for future achievements.
The episode touches on the sacrifices required for success, with Bret recounting the social pressures and the need for balance between work, personal growth, and social life he faced during college. He emphasizes the value of making tough choices early in life to set oneself up for long-term success, framing his sacrifices as a means to gain a head start in life. Bret's journey underscores the message that embracing challenges, maintaining a positive and resilient attitude, and continuously striving for excellence can lead to fulfilling and successful outcomes.
Join Matt and Brett for this fascinating episode.
Enjoy!
What You Will Learn In This Show:
Brett's decision to pursue entrepreneurship, emphasizing hard work, the desire to learn, and the ambition to succeed without constraints.His personal definition of excellence as the continuous pursuit of challenging oneself to be the best version possible.The significance of resilience and keeping an open mind to overcome obstacles and find one's path.The role of effort and time in developing strong relationships, whether with friends, coworkers, or family.Brett's approach to learning from both successes and failures, without dwelling on the past.The importance of balance and prioritizing long-term goals over short-term pleasures.Brett's belief in embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.And so much more...
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