Episodes
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How do you transform from the family business's biggest skeptic into its most passionate advocate?
Kevin Tsao, Chief Sustainability Officer of Eno Brands, a fashion jewelry manufacturing company, didn't just resist the family businessāhe rejected it outright. But sometimes our strongest resistance reveals our deepest calling.
In this powerful conversation, Kevin shares his transformation from a state government employee who vehemently opposed joining the family business to a leader who has found his purpose in community building and sustainability.
Discover how he shifted the narrative from "Joyce's son" to a respected leader, why treating employees as "family" might not be the best approach, and how he's preparing for the next generation without repeating the pressures he once faced.
This episode is a masterclass in finding your authentic path within a family legacy and turning resistance into purpose.
0:04 Introduction and Initial Resistance
3:21 The Immigrant Journey
7:39 Overcoming Fear and Finding Logic
11:52 Starting as a Receptionist: Earning Respect
16:18 The Hidden Value of Small Family Businesses
19:22 Redefining "Family" in Family Business
25:05 The Manufacturing Journey from Taiwan to China
28:00 Navigating Succession and Geographic Challenges
31:47 Adapting to Tariffs and Global Changes
36:22 Breaking Through the Leadership Plateau
42:40 From CEO to Chief Sustainability Officer
46:22 Building Legacy for the Next Generation
Resources Mentioned:
š§ Kevinās email: [email protected]
š Kevinās LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-tsao28/
š Kevinās Company - Eno Brands: https://www.enobrands.com/
š§ Contact Adam to request a free 90-minute EOS workshop: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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What happens when a fourth-generation family business leader finds himself drowning in anxiety despite outward success?
Franklin Swann, CEO of the 130-year-old Swann's Furniture and Design, shares his raw journey from overwhelming self-doubt to thriving leadership. He reveals how implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) didn't just save his business during the pandemicāit transformed his entire life.
Discover the powerful truth about emotional health in leadership, why systems matter more than hustle, and how working on yourself is just as important as working on your business. This episode is a masterclass in sustainable leadership and building generational wealth through intentional growth.
0:00 Intro
2:22 The 130-Year Legacy of Swann's Furniture
5:35 Surviving the Great Depression Through Oil Booms
8:02 High Service, High Quality Business Model
13:01 How EOS Transformed Operations
16:22 Surviving the Pandemic Through Systems
20:45 From Managing to Leading
23:57 Starting in the Family Business at 12
28:59 The Dark Season of Leadership
32:38 Discovering Emotional Health
36:42 Daily Practices for Self-Relationship
39:54 The World Needs Men Podcast
43:43 Building Legacy for the Next Generation
Resources Mentioned:
š "Outlive" by Peter Attia
šļø The World Needs Men podcast: https://theworldneedsmen.com/
š Swann's Furniture and Design: https://www.swanns.com/
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchillš§ Contact Adam to request a free 90-minute EOS workshop: ā [email protected]ā
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Missing episodes?
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What if the secret to building wealth wasn't working harder, but building better systems?
Jay Bourgana shares his remarkable journey from an impoverished childhood in Morocco to building a $350 million real estate empire. He reveals how curiosity-driven pattern recognition, strategic system building, and the discipline to "fire yourself" from every role can create both financial freedom and personal resilience.
Discover how this serial entrepreneur applies the same frameworks to business acquisition, parenting, and building generational wealth through innovative approaches to risk reduction and value creation.
0:04 Intro
2:40 Growing Up Poor in Morocco
6:58 Building a $350M Real Estate Company in 4 Years
10:11 What Drives Entrepreneurial Success
12:40 Teaching Kids Through Daily Exploration Conversations
14:37 Tariffs and China
19:44 Preparing Family Businesses for Acquisition
24:32 Why CEOs Struggle to Delegate
26:17 The Elon Musk Sprint Method
31:09 Building Systems for Client, Talent, and Capital Acquisition
39:47 Communicating Meaning Across Generations
41:15 Raising Lions
45:41 Teaching Kids the System of Making Friends
52:10 Build vs. Buy
57:59 The Acquisition Collective
Resources Mentioned:
š Acquisition Collective: https://www.acquisitionscollective.biz/
š§ Contact Adam to request a free 90-minute EOS workshop: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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Balancing a thriving real estate empire with family life and full-time jobsā¦is it even possible?
Logan and Bostyn Brodine share their journey from purchasing their first investment property to building a portfolio of six single-family homes in just two years. They reveal strategies for maintaining a strong relationship while working together, discuss their new venture into gym franchising, and offer insights on achieving abundance in all areas of life.
Discover how this power couple navigates the challenges of entrepreneurship, parenthood, and personal growth through innovative time management and strategic coaching.
0:00 Intro
10:41 Hiring Coaches for Personal Growth
18:11 Family Business and Farming Background
26:27 Exposing Kids to Business Concepts
35:29 Balancing W2 Jobs and Investments
40:33 New Venture: Alloy Gym Franchise
49:20 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
Resources Mentioned:
IG: @familyofrei
š National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA): https://www.nsca.com/
š Dave Ramsey: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/
š Ramit Sethi: https://www.iwillteachyoutoberich.com/
š§ Contact Adam to request a free 90-minute EOS workshop: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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Wondering how to thrive in the unique dynamics of a family business?
In this episode, Adam sits down with Taylor Gandy, a third-generation CEO, to unpack his journey of stepping into leadership and the game-changing impact of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS).
They dive into how clearly defined core values can shape hiring decisions, why community involvement matters, and what it really takes to lead a legacy business into the future.
Whether you're part of a family-run company or simply passionate about leadership, youāll walk away with practical advice and fresh inspiration for your own business path.
0:00 Intro
5:43 Learning To Love The Family Business
10:55 Separating Visionary And Integrator Roles
16:27 Hiring For Character And Core Values
21:45 Implementing EOS In Family Business
27:51 Focusing On Solving Important Problems
34:28 EOS Journey And Annual Meetings
38:04 Building Legacy For Next Generation
41:42 Advice For Entering Family Business
Resources Mentioned:
š Gandy Installations: https://gandyinstallations.net/
š Instagram: @gandyhvac
š EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) https://www.eosworldwide.com/
š Nexstar Network https://www.nexstarnetwork.com/
š Feel the Love program https://www.feelthelove.com/
š 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey
š Traction by Gino Wickman
š§ Contact Adam to request a free 90-minute EOS workshop: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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How do family-owned enterprises overcome resistance to change and other dysfunctions, setting a course for success from generation to generation?
Join Adam Hill as he talks with seasoned CEO and family business advocate, Rob Ferguson, about the dynamics of family-controlled entities. They discuss the importance of leadership, implementing proper governance, facing change, and how to prioritize for success. They also cover building value, maintaining identity beyond the business, recognizing dysfunctions, and much more.
Discover how prioritizing business amidst the unique dynamics of family relations can lead to functional success. Tune in to gain insights that could transform your family business journey.
0:00 Intro
5:07 Tale Of Two Family Businesses: Functional vs. Dysfunctional
10:35 Addressing Family Business Governance Early
15:34 Balancing Growth, Control, And Liquidity
20:24 Importance Of Family Businesses To The Economy
24:38 Memorializing Priorities In Family Constitution
29:59 Leading Through Change In Family Businesses
33:44 Key Steps For Effective Succession Planning
38:50 Building Value Through Leadership Transition
41:20 Finding Purpose Beyond The Family Business
45:08 How To Contact Rob Ferguson For Advice
Resources Mentioned:
š Ferguson Alliance: https://ferguson-alliance.com
š§ Contact Adam to request a free 90-minute EOS workshop: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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How can you ensure your family's wealth is preserved and wisely managed across generations?
Adam Hill talks with international speaker and founder of Generational Wisdom, Julia Myers, about the vital importance of passing on not just generational wealth, but wisdom, to our children.
Julia shares the transformative journey that led her to discover how financial acumen must be wedded to wisdom in order to create true abundance for oneās family. She offers profound insights and practical strategies on financial education, emphasizing the creation of a family constitution and other unique financial tools and methods to help guide values and decisions.
Discover how to prepare the next generation for responsible wealth management and instill lasting family values. Tune in to learn more!
0:00 Introduction
3:38 Julia's career-ending medical emergency
7:10 Shifting from wealth to generational wisdom
11:37 Adopting good money habits early on
16:24 Embracing privilege and finding purpose
22:16 Developing the right financial mindset
26:57 The 75% charity wealth distribution plan
30:06 The discernment quadrant for financial decisions
34:44 Starting money conversations with kids
38:59 Teaching financial independence to children
44:41 Discussing economic shifts with children
48:44 Creating a family constitution for legacy
55:23 Closing thoughts and contact information
Resources Mentioned:
š "Z Economy" by Jason Dorsey
š "Who Moved My Cheese?" by Spencer Johnson
š Juliaās website: https://juliamyers.com
Email: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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How does a decades-old family business adapt and survive despite modern challenges?
Join Adam Hill as he chats with Ben Hertzman, president of Progress Luv2Pak, about the company's rich history, the transition between generations, and their innovative steps in domestic manufacturing and sustainability.
From his Procter & Gamble days to launching Gather Packaging, Ben reveals how sustainability is reshaping the packaging world. Whether you're a business leader or an eco-conscious consumer, this episode offers valuable lessons on embracing change while honoring the past.
Tune in to learn how to lead with purpose and vision!
0:00 Introduction
5:07 Transitioning from P&G to family business
10:56 Balancing tradition and evolution in business
16:06 Persistence in landing a job at P&G
21:26 The importance of packaging in customer experience
27:31 Adapting to changing customer demands
32:16 Packaging's role in brand messaging
37:59 Challenges of becoming company president
43:12 Investing in domestic manufacturing capabilities
48:29 Pioneering sustainability in the packaging industry
51:24 Thoughts on next generation succession planning
Resources Mentioned:
š Ben Hertzman LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/benhertzman
š Progress Luv2Pak: https://www.progressluv2pak.com
š Gather Packaging: https://www.gatherpackaging.com
Email: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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Curious about how to successfully transition a family business while preserving its legacy?
In this episode, Adam chats with Andrea Carpenter, a seasoned expert in family business succession who shares her personal experiences growing up in a family business and the critical role that open communication played in her formation, while exploring how both family business leaders and next-generation members can balance honoring legacy with pursuing their own authentic paths.
Whether you're planning to pass your business to the next generation or contemplating other transition options, Andrea's wisdom about creating authentic spaces for rising generations while honoring family legacy will transform how you think about succession.
Discover why it's never too early to start planning your transition and how to ensure everyone in your family business feels valued in the process.
0:00 Introduction
5:26 Transition Strategists: Helping family businesses
10:15 Open communication about family wealth
20:44 Protecting wealth for future generations
25:14 Joining Transition Strategists as a successor
29:49 Framework for succession planning
34:36 When to start transition planning
38:26 The Next Gen Friend: Supporting the next generation
43:53 Creating resources for next generation leaders
Resources Mentioned:
š It's a Journey - Book by Elizabeth Ledoux
š Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yournextgenfriend/
š LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreashaver/
š Free Resource! Let's Talk Transition - https://letstalktransition.com/adam
š The Transition Strategists - https://www.transitionstrategists.com/
š Your Next Gen Friend - https://yournextgenfriend.com/
š Tiger 21 - Mentioned as a group Andrea's father is part of - āāhttps://tiger21.com/
š GoBundance Women - Mastermind group mentioned https://gobundancewomen.com/
Email: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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Ever thought about using an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as a way to transition your business?
In this episode, Adam Hill sits down with ESOP expert Kelly Finnell to break down how these plans work, why theyāre the best move for some family-owned businesses, and what it really takes to put one in place.
Theyāll cover how ESOPs can protect your companyās culture, reward your team, and offer a meaningful path to successionāall while keeping the heart of the business intact.
0:00 Intro
5:37 Kelly's journey as an ESOP pioneer
19:22 Tax benefits and "losers" in ESOP transactions
25:52 Minimum requirements for ESOP candidates
31:43 ESOPs in different industries and cultures
36:32 Governance structures in ESOP companies
40:11 The concept of compassionate capitalism
43:42 How owners can prepare for ESOPs
Resources Mentioned:
The ESOP Coach by Kelly Finnell
EFS ESOP Consultants
Email: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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Join Adam Hill in exploring the journey of Andrew Cohen as he navigates the ownership transition of Moosylvania, the legendary advertising agency his father started. Andrew candidly shares the challenges of taking the reins, the dynamics of working alongside his father, and how his leadership role has unfolded over time.
Discover how Andrew is embracing creativity in the face of AI advancements (including their innovative brainstorming tool, Collabsurdity!) and gain insights into balancing family ties with business responsibilities and the future of advertising.
0:00 Intro
5:24 Childhood dynamics and parental relationships
16:30 Integrating into the family business
23:53 Ownership transition and gifting challenges
30:32 Finding clarity in family business roles
37:47 Advice for succession planning
40:08 Legacy and vision for Moosylvania's future
45:02 Current state and future of Moosylvania
48:52 Closing thoughts on family business resources
Resources Mentioned:
Moosylvania
Andrew Cohen's LinkedIn profile
Email: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill
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Adam and Marie Hill explore the intricate dance of balancing love and business. From setting boundaries to fostering open communication, the Hills offer insights into creating a supportive environment that nurtures both personal and professional growth.
They share personal stories and practical strategies for maintaining a thriving partnership while managing separate businesses. Tune in and discover how to transform your relationship into a powerhouse of collaboration and success.
0:00 Intro
5:52 Balancing relationship and business challenges
11:42 Respecting boundaries and celebrating "no"
16:24 Supporting each other through entrepreneurial ups and downs
22:00 The danger of trying to control your partner
27:25 Improving communication and honesty over time
33:38 Daily practices to strengthen the relationship
39:48 Having grace and patience
Resources Mentioned:
š The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Email: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
Sign up for my newsletter and get my free Vision/Reflection Retreat Guide
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
TikTok: @theadamchill
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Join Adam Hill as he chats with Joey Goone, president of Utopia Experience, about the dynamic journey of running a legacy business.
Explore how his events company evolvedāespecially during a time when in-person events ground to a sudden halt!āand learn about Joey's core value of leading with love.
Joey shares his unique approach to leadership, emphasizing positivity and personal growth. This episode offers insights into creating impactful events and navigating the future of family businesses with openness and adaptability.
0:00 Intro
5:37 Staying present through mindfulness practices
11:31 Cultivating skills through courage and curiosity
18:55 Pivotal moment at Front Row Summit
24:16 Helping nonprofits raise $50 million during COVID
29:36 Building Utopia Experience from the ground up
34:31 Creating psychological safety at conferences
38:04 Embracing love as a core value
45:44 Approaching business like a video game
49:38 Permission to not have all the answers
Resources Mentioned:
š Mindset by Dr. Carol Dweck
š The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
š Mr. Thank You by John Israel
Utopia Experience
LinkedIn profile of Joey Goone
Email: [email protected]
Follow Adam:
Sign up for my newsletter and get my free Vision/Reflection Retreat Guide
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
TikTok: @theadamchill
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Unlock the key to success in family businesses by mastering the balance between Vision and Execution.
Host Adam Hill dives into the classic āchicken or eggā debateāwhat truly comes first (and why does it matter)?
Get ready for a fresh perspective that challenges conventional wisdom, helping your family business break through stagnation, build a future-focused vision, and honor its legacy.
0:00 Intro
1:03 Vision vs execution in business
5:06 Execution should precede vision
10:12 Building trust through systematic execution
15:18 Execution's role in family businesses
20:28 Implementing weekly meetings for accountability
Email: [email protected]
Follow Adam Hill:
Sign up for my newsletter and get my free Vision/Reflection Retreat Guide: https://adamchill.ck.page/vision-reflection
- IG: @theadamchill
- YouTube: @adamchill
- TikTok: @theadamchill
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Discover how strategic planning can elevate your business's worth and ensure a smooth transitionāunlike a shocking 70% of business owners who try to sell but canāt!
Explore the transformative journey of exit planning with Renee Russo, an expert in creating business value and personal energy management. Renee shares her insights on balancing leadership with self-prioritization, emphasizing the importance of personal well-being in achieving professional success.
Tune in to learn practical steps to manage your energy and reconnect with your true self, setting the stage for both personal and business growth!
0:00 Intro
5:05 Startling statistics about business exits
11:41 The 90-day rhythm in business and life
16:50 Renee's personal story of loss
24:08 The turning point: Saving a life on Christmas
28:57 Exit planning for family businesses
33:16 Five stages of value maturity in business
41:01 Writing "Ready to Rise" as therapy
46:53 Energy management as key to personal freedom
54:55 Simple first steps to start managing energy
58:24 How to connect with Renee
Resources Mentioned:
Book: Ready to Rise by Renee Russo
https://riseupbc.com/
Reneeās Linkedin
Follow Adam:
Sign up for my newsletter and get my free Vision/Reflection Retreat Guide
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
TikTok: @theadamchill
Email: [email protected]
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Explore the transformative power of separating Visionary and Integrator roles in family businesses with host Adam Hill. Discover how this strategic division can prevent burnout, enhance accountability, and drive sustainable growth.
Drawing from personal experiences and proven business frameworks, Adam offers actionable insights to help leaders assess their strengths and implement effective role separation.
Whether you're looking to improve leadership dynamics or prepare for a smooth transition, this episode provides the guidance you need to elevate your business!
0:00 Intro
0:56 The most important relationship in family business
5:43 Misconceptions about the CEO role
9:04 The "time card" culture
14:26 Importance of core focus and preventing distractions
18:30 Letting go of control as a founder
22:35 Implementing the Visionary-Integrator relationship
26:39 Giving authority to the Integrator
29:42 Closing thoughts
Resources Mentioned:
Follow Adam:
Sign up for my newsletter and get my free Vision/Reflection Retreat Guide: https://adamchill.ck.page/vision-refl...
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
TikTok: @theadamchill
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Explore the transformative power of virtual assistants with Adam Hill and Adrienne Green as they discuss how these resources can revolutionize family businesses. Adrienne shares her journey of running a virtual assistant firm with her husband while traveling the globe with their children, offering practical tips on balancing entrepreneurship with family life.
Discover strategies for hiring and managing virtual assistants, leveraging technology for seamless collaboration, and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset in children. Gain insights into creating a harmonious work-life balance and empowering your family business with innovative solutions!
0:00 Intro
5:40 From corporate finance to teaching to real estate
10:04 Distinguishing factors of entrepreneurial mindset
15:30 Key systems for success with virtual assistants
20:52 Benefits of VAs for family businesses
28:25 Types of virtual assistants to hire first
32:41 Avoiding traps when hiring virtual assistants
37:32 Handling security concerns with virtual assistants
42:15 Tips for spouses working together while traveling
48:28 Fostering entrepreneurial spirit in children
51:03 Resources for getting started with virtual assistants
Resources Mentioned:
Workergenix
Adrienneās Instagram: @arealgreen
Workergenix Instagram: @goworkergenix
Onlinejobs.ph
Follow Adam:
Sign up for my newsletter and get my free Vision/Reflection Retreat Guide
IG: @theadamchill
YouTube: @adamchill
TikTok: @theadamchill
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Introducing Startup Spouses! Join Adam and his wife, Marie, in this new series about business and marriage. Celebrating 26 years together, Adam and Marie credit the power of EOS-style meetings to upleveling their marriage. Discover how these weekly meetings with your spouse can enhance your relationship through tackling challenges together and fostering open communication.
0:00 Introduction
5:52 āDivide and conquerā approach
13:37 Weekly meeting pulse as quality time
24:37 Addressing issues through meetings
29:22 Intentional time together improves marriage
34:23 Collaborating instead of dividing and conquering
38:33 Advice for introducing spouse meetings
41:30 Have fun!
Resources Mentioned:
Vivid Vision by Cameron Herold
Traction by Geno Wickman
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Explore the intersection of psychology and business with host Adam Hill and Dr. Donna Marino, who shares her unique journey from a family of Manhattan electricians to becoming a psychologist and family business consultant. Discover the importance of proactive governance, effective conflict resolution strategies, and how psychology plays a crucial role in navigating the complexities of family-owned companies. Gain valuable insights and actionable advice to enhance communication and trust within your family business.
00:00 Intro
03:15 Family legacy in NYC construction
07:07 Coping with loss after 9/11
12:37 Grief in business
22:37 Challenges of second and third generations
29:49 Complexities of multi-generational family businesses
35:26 Structuring governance in century-old businesses
46:20 Helping conflict-avoidant people engage constructively
Resources Mentioned:
Courageous Conflict podcast
Dr. Donna Marinoās website
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Today, Adam Hill celebrates 13 years of sobriety, reflecting on his journey from a jail cell after a DUI to becoming a top Ironman athlete and the CEO of his familyās business. Tune in for powerful insights on resilience, personal growth, and the striking parallels between overcoming lifeās challenges and breaking through business barriers.
00:00 Introduction
05:06 Sobriety journey and life transformation
10:14 Why we stay in unhealthy dynamics
15:52 Implementing a business operating system
22:00 Importance of supportive communities
24:33 Self-reflection and avoiding victim mentality
Resources Mentioned:
Shifting Gears book
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