Episódios
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As a curious eight-year-old, Adva Amir was mesmerized by the cockpit during a family trip, sparking a lifelong dream of becoming a pilot. After failing to become a military pilot in Israel, Adva felt broken. Shifting her mindset and picking up the pieces, she moved to the U.S. to pursue civilian flight training. Despite language barriers, naysayers, and grueling hours, she broke into this male-dominated field and became one of the few female airline captains in the world. In this episode, Adva joins Ilana to share insights on chasing your dream, even when the odds are stacked against you.
Adva Amir is a commercial airline pilot, TEDx speaker, and LinkedIn Top Voice. Recognized by the National Business Aviation Association as one of the top 40 most influential people in aviation, Adva actively advocates for diversity and inclusion while mentoring aspiring pilots.
In this episode, Ilana and Adva will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:54) Her Childhood Fascination with Flying
(03:16) Failing to Become a Military Pilot
(05:51) Leading a Military Unit at 19 Years Old
(07:15) Moving to the U.S. for Flight Training
(12:06) The Challenging Path to Becoming a Pilot
(17:15) Landing First Airline Job Amid COVID-19
(20:11) Breaking Barriers and Expectations in Aviation
(23:06) Adva’s Viral LinkedIn Post Inspiring Millions
(26:50) Adjusting to Long-Haul Flights with Hawaiian Airlines
(30:34) Discovering a Passion for Surfing
(36:54) Competing in the Maccabiah Games
(39:01) Pursuing Dreams Despite Naysayers
Adva Amir is a commercial airline pilot, TEDx speaker, and LinkedIn Top Voice. While at SkyWest Airlines, she became one of the few female airline captains, breaking barriers and inspiring others. Currently at Hawaiian Airlines, she flies long-haul routes as a First Officer. Recognized by the National Business Aviation Association as one of the top 40 most influential people in aviation, Adva actively advocates for diversity and inclusion while mentoring aspiring pilots.
Connect with Adva:
Adva’s Website: advamir.com
Adva’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adva-amir-3bb2a6136
Leap Academy:
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Brian Keane’s journey is a powerful example of embracing change and conquering fear. Originally a primary school teacher in London, Brian realized teaching wasn’t his true calling and made a bold leap into fitness, despite doubts from family and peers. With his mom’s support, he overcame numerous challenges to become a three-time bestselling author, certified strength and conditioning coach, and ultra-marathon runner. In this episode, Brian joins Ilana to share how he tackled fear, turned his career around, and undertook the most daring endurance challenges, including running through the Sahara Desert and the Arctic.
Brian Keane is a bestselling author, online fitness coach, and nutritionist. He is the founder of Brian Keane Fitness, where he helps clients transform their bodies and mindset for the long term, and the host of The Brian Keane Podcast, one of Ireland and the UK’s top health podcasts.
In this episode, Ilana and Brian will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:02) From Teaching to Full-Time Fitness
(09:17) Crushing the Fear of Failure in Career Transitions
(12:31) Navigating Burnout While Building a Fitness Career
(18:22) Balancing Passion with Business Skills
(23:40) The Power of Mindset in Achieving Success
(30:57) The Framework for Building Sustainable Habits
(35:39) How to Overcome Comparison and Stay Focused
(43:12) Tackling Ultra Marathons and Extreme Challenges
(52:00) Learning from Setbacks and Building Resilience
(1:00:00) Embracing Change and Taking Action
Brian Keane is a bestselling author, online fitness coach, and nutritionist. He is the founder of Brian Keane Fitness, where he helps clients transform their bodies and mindset for the long term, and the host of The Brian Keane Podcast, one of Ireland and the UK’s top health podcasts. As an ultra-endurance athlete, Brian has completed several challenging races, including six back-to-back marathons through the Sahara Desert, a 230 km race through the Arctic Circle, and has also led an expedition to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Connect with Brian:
Brian’s Website: briankeanefitness.com
Brian’s Instagram: instagram.com/brian_keane_fitness
Resources Mentioned:
Brian’s Book, The Fitness Mindset: Eat for Energy, Train for Tension, Manage Your Mindset, Reap the Results: https://www.amazon.com/Fitness-Mindset-tension-mindset-results/dp/1781332525
Brian’s Book, Rewriting Your Story: Seven Habits to Help You Reclaim Your Power, Let Go of Fear, and Change the Narratives That Hold You Back: https://www.amazon.co.uk/REWRITING-YOUR-STORY-RECLAIM-NARRATIVES/dp/B0DWB1ZSL3
Brian’s Book, Rewire Your Mindset: Own Your Thinking, Control Your Actions, Change Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Rewire-Your-Mindset-Thinking-Control/dp/1781334234
The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business Paperback by Charles Duhigg: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/081298160X
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299
Leap Academy:
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Tony Khan was captivated by sports and wrestling from a young age. After immersing himself in sports analytics, he joined his father’s ventures, using his expertise to build a data-driven team at the Jacksonville Jaguars. Witnessing Fulham’s struggles, Tony saw an opportunity to apply his skills to improve the team and took it. His passion for wrestling ultimately led him to launch All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Despite initial skepticism, Tony’s vision and perseverance allowed AEW to thrive, becoming a major disruptor in the wrestling world. In this episode, Tony joins Ilana to share the power of taking bold actions and seizing opportunities.
Tony Khan is the founder, president, and CEO of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a leading professional wrestling promotion. He also holds executive roles with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL and Fulham F.C. in the English Premier League.
In this episode, Ilana and Tony will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:56) His Early Passion for Sports and Wrestling
(04:52) Shifting from Engineering to Finance
(08:35) Building a Data-Driven Sports Team at the Jaguars
(14:24) Overcoming Setbacks at Fulham FC
(18:41) The Birth of All Elite Wrestling (AEW)
(22:22) Earning Trust and Disrupting the Wrestling World
(28:55) Navigating AEW Through the Pandemic
(35:53) Acquiring Ring of Honor to Preserve Its Legacy
(38:21) Honoring Wrestling Legends and Their Impact
(41:10) Thriving in a Highly Competitive Industry
(43:03) The Key to Breaking into Media and Entertainment
(46:36) Making the Most of Opportunities in Life
Tony Khan is the founder, president, and CEO of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a leading professional wrestling promotion. He also holds executive roles with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL and Fulham F.C. in the English Premier League. With a background in finance and sports analytics, Tony has revolutionized the business of sports entertainment, positioning AEW as a major competitor to WWE. He was awarded "Promoter of the Year" and "Best Booker" by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter for three consecutive years.
Connect with Tony:
Tony’s Instagram: instagram.com/tonyrkhan
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
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Tim Storey grew up facing financial struggles, family instability, and a devastating loss at a young age. When his father tragically passed away in a car accident, it could have broken him. Instead, Tim leaned on his family for support and drew strength from his faith and community. This resilience led him to become a life coach, eventually earning the title of "comeback coach" for stars like Robert Downey Jr., Charlie Sheen, and Grant Cardone. In this episode, Tim joins Ilana to share the pivotal moments that shaped his life, the power of maintaining a "miracle mentality," and the role of resilience, discipline, and consistency in achieving success.
Tim Storey is a life coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, known as the "Original Comeback Coach." With over three decades of experience, he has helped individuals, including high-profile clients, turn setbacks into comebacks.
In this episode, Ilana and Tim will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:00) Growing Up in a Challenging Childhood
(03:56) Coping with Tragedy and Finding Strength
(07:54) How Mentors and Teachers Shaped His Life
(13:34) Building His Own Path to Success
(18:46) The Mindset to Overcome Life’s Challenges
(20:39) Understanding the Miracle Mentality
(22:29) Thriving in the Age of Digital Overload
(25:48) Pushing Through Pain to Achieve Success
(31:29) How to Create Opportunities and Get Results
(34:07) The Power of Living in the Moment
Tim Storey is a life coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, known as the "Original Comeback Coach." With over three decades of experience, he has helped individuals, including high-profile clients, turn setbacks into comebacks. Tim is the author of several bestselling books, including The Miracle Mentality, and has spoken in 78 countries, reaching millions through his books, keynotes, and media appearances.
Connect with Tim:
Tim’s Website: timstorey.com
Tim’s Instagram: instagram.com/timstoreyofficial
Resources Mentioned:
Tim’s Book, The Miracle Mentality: Tap into the Source of Magical Transformation in Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Mentality-Source-Magical-Transformation/dp/0785236724
The Agony and the Ecstasy: A Biographical Novel of Michelangelo by Irvin Stone: https://www.amazon.com/Agony-Ecstasy-Biographical-Novel-Michelangelo/dp/0451171357
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
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Bernard Hampton’s journey from modest beginnings to Managing Director and The Head of The Academy at Bank of America is a testament to hard work, learning, and leadership. Raised in a middle-class family with a strong work ethic, Bernard’s early experiences shaped his leadership approach. From his start as a sales associate at RadioShack to leading over a thousand employees globally at Bank of America, he has always believed in the power of people and emotional intelligence. In this episode, Bernard shares strategies for transitioning into leadership, navigating crises, and the power of continuous learning in career growth.
Bernard Hampton is a Managing Director and The Head of The Academy at Bank of America, where he leads global employee training and development initiatives for over 200,000 employees.
In this episode, Ilana and Bernard will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:39) Early Experiences That Shaped His Leadership
(07:17) Joining Bank of America
(09:02) Leading Through Crisis and Uncertainty
(12:42) Four Keys to Stronger Team Dynamics
(19:31) The Power of Origin Stories in Leadership
(24:15) Leading Talent Development at Bank of America
(30:07) The Value of Career Mentors and Sponsors
(33:40) Building a Culture of Learning and Growth
(38:10) Empowering Your Community as a Leader
(39:45) Four Steps to Unlock Your Leadership Potential
(45:30) Balancing Leadership with Personal Life
Bernard Hampton is a Managing Director and The Head of The Academy at Bank of America, where he leads global employee training and development initiatives for over 200,000 employees. He is also a member of Leadership Florida's Executive Class 12 and serves on the Board of Directors for the Urban League of Palm Beach County, contributing to efforts that promote economic growth and community development.
Connect with Bernard:
Bernard’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bernardfhampton
Resources Mentioned:
Bank of America: bankofamerica.com
The Academy: https://careers.bankofamerica.com/en-us/career-development/the-academy
Do Hard Things: Why We Get Resilience Wrong and the Surprising Science of Real Toughness by Steve Magness: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Things-Resilience-Surprising-Toughness/dp/006309861X
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
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Mo Gawdat was thriving in his career as Chief Business Officer at Google X, enjoying wealth, success, and a loving family. However, his life took a dramatic turn after the tragic loss of his son, Ali. This loss made Mo realize that happiness isn’t defined by external factors but by how we perceive and navigate life’s challenges. Letting go of everything that once defined success, including his career, Mo reinvented himself as an advocate for happiness, dedicating his life to helping others live with less stress and more joy. In this episode, Mo joins Ilana to share how he transformed his life after tragedy and reveals his formula for finding happiness, managing stress, and creating lasting fulfillment.
Mo Gawdat is an Egyptian entrepreneur, four-time bestselling author, and former Chief Business Officer at Google X. He founded the mission #OneBillionHappy, dedicated to helping others lead happier lives.
In this episode, Ilana and Mo will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:07) Growing up in Egypt with a Passion for Tech
(05:38) Coding and Landing a Job at IBM
(11:02) Building Trust and Success in Sales
(16:14) Struggling with Happiness Despite Success
(21:35) Discovering the Algorithm of Happiness
(27:02) The Devastating Loss of His Son
(33:01) Turning Grief Into a Global Mission of Happiness
(40:00) Leaving Google in Pursuit of True Fulfillment
(46:47) Understanding and Managing Stress
(01:00:24) Why Life is Like a Video Game
Mo Gawdat is an Egyptian entrepreneur, four-time bestselling author, and former Chief Business Officer at Google X. With a background in engineering and over 30 years in the tech industry, he has held leadership roles at IBM, NCR, Microsoft, and Google, where he helped launch operations in over 50 countries. Mo developed a formula for happiness, which he shares in his book Solve for Happy, and founded the mission #OneBillionHappy, dedicated to helping others lead happier lives.
Connect with Mo:
Mo’s Website: mogawdat.com
Mo’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mogawdat
Mo’s Substack: substack.com/@mogawdat
Resources Mentioned:
Mo’s Book, Solve for Happy: Engineer Your Path to Joy: https://www.amazon.com/Solve-Happy-Engineer-Your-Path/dp/1501157558
Mo’s Book, Unstressable: A Practical Guide to Stress-Free Living: https://www.amazon.com/Unstressable-Practical-Guide-Stress-Free-Living/dp/1035022729
Mo’s Book, That Little Voice In Your Head: Adjust the Code That Runs Your Brain: https://www.amazon.com/That-Little-Voice-Your-Head/dp/152906614X
Mo’s Book, Scary Smart: The Future of Artificial Intelligence and How You Can Save Our World: https://www.amazon.com/Scary-Smart-Future-Artificial-Intelligence/dp/1529077621
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
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James Currier was born an entrepreneur. Before turning 18, he had launched 18 businesses. After years in corporate jobs, he fully embraced his entrepreneurial calling. He co-founded Tickle, one of the internet’s first successful user-generated platforms, which grew to 150 million users before being acquired by Monster.com for $110 million. Now, as a founding partner at NFX, he invests in high-growth startups leveraging network effects. In this episode, James joins Ilana to discuss the power of network effects in scaling businesses, the key traits of great founders, and how to spot technology windows for timely investments.
James Currier is a five-time founder, angel investor in DoorDash, Lyft, and Patreon, and a founding partner at NFX, an early-stage venture capital firm. He is an expert in building high-growth companies that leverage network effects.
In this episode, Ilana and James will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(00:27) Embracing Entrepreneurship from a Young Age
(04:35) From Corporate Jobs to Building His First Startup
(08:45) Navigating Rejections and the Dot-Com Crash
(12:24) Understanding Viral vs. Network Effects
(19:12) The Reality of Running Multiple Startups
(21:26) Why Attempting to Fix Healthcare Was a Mistake
(27:10) Building NFX into a Leading Venture Firm
(31:58) Balancing Optimism and Risk in Investing
(35:16) The Key Traits that Make a Great Founder
(37:45) What It Takes to Be a Successful Entrepreneur
(40:33) The Role of Technology Windows in Startup Success
James Currier is a five-time founder, angel investor in DoorDash, Lyft, and Patreon, and a founding partner at NFX, an early-stage venture capital firm. He co-founded Tickle, one of the internet’s first successful user-generated companies, which was acquired by Monster.com. James also co-founded Wonderhill (merged with Kabam), IronPearl (acquired by PayPal), and Jiff (merged with Castlight). He is an expert in building high-growth companies that leverage network effects.
Connect with James:
James’s Website: nfx.com
James’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jamescurrier
Resources Mentioned:
NFX Article, Viral Effects Are Not Network Effects: https://www.nfx.com/post/viral-effects-vs-network-effects
NFX Article, Technology Windows: The Unseen Force Driving Your Startup: https://www.nfx.com/post/technology-windows
NFX Article, How “Venture Capital 3.0” Impacts Founders in the AI Age: https://www.nfx.com/post/venture-capital-3
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
After studying law, Daniel Pink transitioned into politics, serving as the chief speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore. However, he soon felt unfulfilled and realized his true calling wasn’t in a structured career with defined rules, but in writing. Despite the uncertainty, he made the leap, leaving politics behind to pursue writing full-time. This decision led to multiple bestselling books, including his latest, The Power of Regret. In this episode, Daniel joins Ilana to discuss how embracing regret, rather than avoiding it, leads to profound growth and how we can turn our past decisions into catalysts for a better future.
Daniel Pink is a bestselling author and speaker known for his work on business, work, and human behavior. His books have been translated into 46 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide.
In this episode, Ilana and Daniel will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:51) Growing Up with a Love for Books
(06:13) Transitioning from Law School to Politics
(09:49) Becoming a Speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore
(12:24) Why He Chose a Career in Writing Over Politics
(16:07) From Struggling Writer to Bestselling Author
(18:06) Uncovering the Key to Human Motivation
(21:55) The Science of Timing and the Midpoint Slump
(26:43) Embracing Regret as a Catalyst for Growth
(30:21) The Four Types of Regret and Their Impact
(34:59) Turning Regret Into Action and Growth
(40:08) Daniel’s Motivation for Writing Books
(42:04) The Power of Ignoring What Others Think
Daniel Pink is a bestselling author and speaker known for his work on business, work, and human behavior. Before becoming a full-time author, he held several positions in politics and government, including serving as the chief speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore. Daniel has since written seven New York Times bestsellers, including Drive, When, and his latest, The Power of Regret. His books have been translated into 46 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide.
Connect with Daniel:
Daniel’s Website: danpink.com
Daniel’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danielpink
Resources Mentioned:
Daniel’s Book, The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Regret-Looking-Backward-Forward/dp/B098VRLZ2H
Daniel’s Book, A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future: https://www.amazon.com/Whole-New-Mind-Right-Brainers-Future/dp/1594481717
Daniel’s Book, When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing:
https://www.amazon.com/When-Scientific-Secrets-Perfect-Timing/dp/B076MBR89W
Daniel’s Book, Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us: https://www.amazon.com/Drive-Surprising-Truth-About-Motivates/dp/B0032COUMC
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
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Dr. John Demartini’s childhood was marked by major obstacles, from a severe speech impediment and dyslexia to a rough start in school. Told that he would never read, write, or communicate, he defied the odds. At age 13, he left home and embarked on a journey that would take him from street life to a global career as a human behavior specialist and entrepreneur. In this episode, John joins Ilana to share how he turned adversity into fuel for success, the mindset that led him to create the Demartini Institute, and how he overcame his learning disabilities to become one of the world’s most influential speakers.
Dr. John Demartini is a human behavior expert, researcher, author, and founder of the Demartini Institute. He has studied over 30,000 books, written more than 40, and shared his knowledge in 161 countries.
In this episode, Ilana and John will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:48) Early Life Struggles and Dyslexia
(04:47) Surviving on the Streets as a Teenager
(08:26) Finding Purpose After a Near-Death Experience
(12:10) Overcoming Learning Challenges
(18:28) Discovering His Passion for Teaching
(31:34) Leveraging Personal Values for Success
(34:01) Turning Fear into a Business Ally
(38:00) Adapting to Market Shifts
(41:30) The Key to Charging What You’re Worth
(49:56) Living Life by Design, Not Duty
Dr. John Demartini is a human behavior expert, researcher, author, and founder of the Demartini Institute. With over 40 years of research, he has developed methodologies to help individuals unlock their potential by understanding their values. Despite being diagnosed with dyslexia at an early age, John overcame this challenge, turning it into a driving force. He has studied over 30,000 books, written more than 40, and shared his knowledge in 161 countries.
Connect with John:
John’s Website: https://drdemartini.com
John’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjohndemartini
Resources Mentioned:
The Time Trap: The Classic Book on Time Management by Alec Mackenzie: https://www.amazon.com/Time-Trap-Classic-Book-Management/dp/0814413382
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
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As a shy kid, Alex Carter struggled to speak up for herself. Her parents’ divorce sparked her interest in advocacy and mediation, which led her to pursue a law degree. Despite facing self-doubt early in her career, Alex bet on herself and built a career as a Columbia Law professor and renowned negotiation expert. Now, she helps others find their voice, advocate for themselves, and unlock career success. In this episode, Alex joins Ilana to share actionable strategies for negotiating with confidence, landing promotions, charging your worth, and scaling a business.
Alex Carter is a negotiation expert, Columbia Law professor, and bestselling author. She specializes in helping professionals and entrepreneurs build the confidence to negotiate effectively in high-stakes situations.
In this episode, Ilana and Alex will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:49) Finding Her Voice and Building Confidence
(06:56) Pursuing a Career in Law and Mediation
(10:52) Betting on Yourself Despite Self-Doubt
(14:25) The Power of Negotiating for Yourself
(19:48) How to Secure Your First Big Client
(24:39) Negotiating Your Way to Career Success
(30:41) Key Steps in Preparing for a Negotiation
(39:36) Face-to-Face vs. Email Negotiations
(41:44) Negotiating Across Cultures
(43:06) Practical Solutions to Business Challenges
(45:52) How to Scale by Leveraging Your Time
Alex Carter is a negotiation expert, Columbia Law professor, and bestselling author. She specializes in helping professionals and entrepreneurs build the confidence to negotiate effectively in high-stakes situations. With a background in law and mediation, Alex teaches practical strategies for securing promotions, landing clients, and navigating complex negotiations. Her work empowers individuals to advocate for themselves and achieve career success.
Connect with Alex:
Alex’s Website: alexcarterasks.com
Alex’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alexandrabcarter
Resources Mentioned:
Alex’s Book, Ask for More: 10 Questions to Negotiate Anything: https://www.amazon.com/Ask-More-Questions-Negotiate-Anything/dp/1982130482
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
Chemi Peres’s journey to success was shaped by both professional challenges and personal loss. After losing his job, he felt humiliated and vowed never to face such a setback again. He pivoted to venture capitalism, co-founding Pitango Venture Capital, Israel’s largest venture fund. Despite his success, Chemi experienced the profound losses of both his father and son. These tragedies fueled his drive to honor their legacies through innovation. In this episode, Chemi joins Ilana to share how he navigated grief and adversity, transforming these experiences into a force for lasting impact.
Chemi Peres is the co-founder and managing partner of Pitango Venture Capital, Israel’s largest venture fund, which has invested in over 250 startups. He is also the Chairman of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, a non-profit dedicated to advancing peace and technology in the Middle East.
In this episode, Ilana and Chemi will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:00) Growing Up in a Political Legacy
(05:21) The Challenges in Becoming a Combat Pilot
(07:59) Lessons from the Israeli Defense Forces
(11:59) Transitioning to Aerospace and Career Setback
(20:13) Entering the Venture Capital World
(27:01) Building Israel's Venture Ecosystem
(31:14) Navigating Challenges in Venture Capital
(34:52) Turning Personal Loss into a Legacy of Innovation
(41:27) Healing by Honoring a Loved One’s Dreams
(49:34) How the Peres Center is Shaping Israel’s Future
Chemi Peres is the co-founder and managing partner of Pitango Venture Capital, Israel’s largest venture fund, which has invested in over 250 startups. As the son of former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres, Chemi continues his father's legacy by promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. He is also the Chairman of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, a non-profit dedicated to advancing peace and technology in the Middle East.
Connect with Chemi:
Chemi’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chemiperes
Resources Mentioned:
Pitango’s Website: pitango.com
Yuka Monsters’ Website: yukamonsters.com
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
Guy Kawasaki’s journey from a lower-middle-class neighborhood in Hawaii to becoming a Silicon Valley icon is clear proof of grit and transformation. After working in the jewelry business, he pivoted to tech and joined Apple as Chief Evangelist. There, he played a key role in launching the Macintosh, shaping Apple’s brand, and transforming how technology is marketed. Today, Guy is a venture capitalist, startup advisor, and Chief Evangelist at Canva. In this episode, Guy shares his battle with hearing loss, why passion is overrated, his top sales strategies, and advice for scaling a business as an entrepreneur.
Guy Kawasaki is a marketing specialist, bestselling author, venture capitalist, and speaker. As the former Chief Evangelist for Apple, he played a pivotal role in launching the Macintosh and now serves as Chief Evangelist at Canva.
In this episode, Ilana and Guy will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:11) From Humble Beginnings to Studying at Stanford
(06:24) Why Sales Is the Key to Business Success
(11:01) Knowing When to Pivot vs. Stick with Your Career
(17:26) Transitioning from Jewelry Business to Tech
(21:48) Key Lessons from Working with Steve Jobs
(24:38) How to Evangelize Great Ideas
(26:31) The Promotion That Led Guy to Quit Apple
(31:58) The Myth of “Finding Your Passion”
(38:26) Building Resilience After Hearing Loss
(43:15) Strategies to Scale Your Career and Business
(49:33) How to Truly Understand Customers’ Needs
Guy Kawasaki is a marketing specialist, bestselling author, venture capitalist, and speaker. As the former Chief Evangelist for Apple, he played a pivotal role in launching the Macintosh and now serves as Chief Evangelist at Canva. Despite experiencing hearing loss and receiving a cochlear implant, Guy’s passion for sharing ideas remains unwavering. He hosts the Remarkable People podcast and delivers over fifty keynote speeches annually for clients like Apple, Nike, Google, and Microsoft.
Connect with Guy:
Guy’s Website: guykawasaki.com
Guy’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/guykawasaki
Resources Mentioned:
Guy’s Podcast, Remarkable People: bit.ly/RemarkablePeoplePod
Guy’s Book, Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Remarkable-Paths-Transform-Difference/dp/139424522X
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
Growing up, Shai Reshef wasn’t the most enthusiastic student, but after earning a master’s degree in Chinese politics, he discovered the transformative power of education. Inspired by a UNESCO report predicting the future lack of access to higher education, Shai decided to act. He sold two businesses, leveraged open-source technology, and partnered with volunteer professors to create University of the People, the world’s first tuition-free, accredited online university. In this episode, Shai joins Ilana to share how the university is empowering over 150,000 students from marginalized communities and offers valuable advice for those seeking to make a meaningful impact.
Shai Reshef is the founder and president of University of the People, a nonprofit, tuition-free, accredited online university dedicated to providing accessible higher education to underserved populations across 206 countries.
In this episode, Ilana and Shai will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:52) The Power of Education in Nation-Building
(04:41) Founding the First Online University in Europe
(09:08) Creating a Global, Tuition-Free University
(16:05) Overcoming Accreditation Challenges
(19:34) The Global Impact of the University of the People
(26:41) Building a Sustainable Model for Free Education
(30:59) How University of the People Screens Students
(34:18) Keys to Launching a Meaningful Project
(38:18) Balancing Leadership Stress with Team Dynamics
(40:33) Success Stories from University of the People
(43:41) The Power of Philanthropy and Nonprofits
Shai Reshef is the founder and president of University of the People, a nonprofit, tuition-free, accredited online university dedicated to providing accessible higher education to underserved populations across 206 countries. Previously, he led Kidum Group, Israel’s largest for-profit educational services company, and chaired KIT eLearning, the first online university in Europe. Recognized for his impact on education, Shai also serves as an adviser to the UN’s Global Alliance for ICT and Development.
Connect with Shai:
Shai’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shaireshef
Resources Mentioned:
University of the People’s Website: www.uopeople.edu
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
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Growing up with dyslexia and ADHD, Rosanna Pansino struggled to find her career path. After being fired from every job, she found her calling on YouTube, combining her love for baking with nerdy pop culture. Despite financial struggles, she invested her life savings into building her channel, Nerdy Nummies, which quickly became a sensation. With over 14 million subscribers, bestselling cookbooks, and her own product line, Rosanna turned content creation into a thriving business. In this episode, Rosanna joins Ilana to share how she sustains a long-lasting digital career, navigates platform algorithms, and diversifies her entrepreneurial ventures.
Rosanna Pansino is a YouTuber, actress, author, entrepreneur, and baker, best known for her channel Nerdy Nummies, where she creates visually stunning baked goods inspired by pop culture.
In this episode, Ilana and Rosanna will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:24) Growing up with Dyslexia and ADHD
(05:07) Discovering a Passion for Baking
(06:51) Lessons from Random Jobs and Failure
(10:13) Transitioning from Acting Career to Nerdy Nummies
(14:09) Investing Her Savings in YouTube Growth
(17:04) How Getting Fired Sparked YouTube Success
(25:44) Grief and Mentorship from Susan Wojcicki
(31:40) Expanding Beyond YouTube
(34:03) Sustaining a Long-Term Digital Career
(36:52) Adapting Content to Platform Algorithms
(41:24) Balancing Family and Business Partnerships
(47:03) How Your Inner Circle Drives Success
Rosanna Pansino is a YouTuber, actress, author, entrepreneur, and baker, best known for her channel Nerdy Nummies, where she creates visually stunning baked goods inspired by pop culture. With over 14 million subscribers, she has become one of the most influential figures in the baking and YouTube communities. Rosanna is the author of two cookbooks, The Nerdy Nummies Cookbook and Baking All Year Round, and hosted the HBO Max series Baketopia.
Connect with Rosanna:
Rosanna’s Website: rosannapansino.com
Rosanna’s YouTube: youtube.com/@RosannaPansino
Resources Mentioned:
Star Trek: Phoenix - Cloak & Dagger Part I: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1704271/
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
John Hennessey’s passion for cars began as a child, sitting on his father’s lap as he drove and feeling the thrill of shifting gears. What started as a love for fast cars grew into a pursuit of speed and performance. Despite limited finances, John’s entrepreneurial drive led him to start a car modification business with no formal training. Through trial and error, he founded Hennessey Performance Engineering, known for the Venom F5, the world’s fastest car. In this episode, John shares how passion fueled his success, how he navigates criticism and competition, the role of branding in building a powerful business, and his mission to mentor future engineers through Tuner School.
John Hennessy is the founder and CEO of Hennessey Special Vehicles and Hennessey Performance Engineering, known for high-performance, custom-built vehicles. Under his leadership, Hennessey Performance has become a recognized leader in automotive innovation, specializing in speed, power, and precision.
In this episode, Ilana and John will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:30) Falling in Love With Cars as a Kid
(04:51) Lessons from Early Jobs and Entrepreneurship
(09:38) Racing Adventures and Early Successes
(17:37) Turning His Passion for Cars into a Business
(20:09) Leveraging Media Relationships to Build a Brand
(29:15) How YouTube Helped Scale His Business
(32:58) Overcoming Challenges to Build the Venom F5
(38:09) Financial Management and Business Growth
(40:46) Embracing Haters as a Sign of Relevance
(42:44) Building a Brand on Authenticity and Value
(45:13) Training the Next Generation with Tuner School
(49:00) Lessons From 35 Years of Entrepreneurship
John Hennessy is the founder and CEO of Hennessey Special Vehicles and Hennessey Performance Engineering, known for high-performance, custom-built vehicles. An engineer with a passion for speed, John created the Hennessey Venom F5, a hypercar designed to exceed 300 mph. He also founded Tuner School to train future vehicle engineers and tuners. Under his leadership, Hennessey Performance has become a recognized leader in automotive innovation, specializing in speed, power, and precision.
Connect with John:
John’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/john-hennessey-9645a0b
John’s Instagram: instagram.com/john_hennessey_texas
Resources Mentioned:
Hennessey Performance: hennesseyperformance.com
Tuner School: https://tunerschool.com
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
After quitting her job at Google, Elizabeth Yin took a bold leap into entrepreneurship by founding LaunchBit, an adtech company. Despite facing challenges with fundraising and customer acquisition, LaunchBit was acquired. Drawing on these experiences, Elizabeth joined 500 Startups, where she invested in early-stage companies. As co-founder of Hustle Fund, she now backs startups focused on speed and execution. In this episode, Elizabeth joins Ilana to share the challenges of starting a business, how she evaluates founders to invest in, and the realities of fundraising in the competitive world of venture capital.
Elizabeth Yin is a co-founder and General Partner at Hustle Fund, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups. She has reviewed over 20,000 startup pitches and assisted numerous portfolio founders in raising hundreds of millions of dollars.
In this episode, Ilana and Elizabeth will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:39) Falling in Love with Startups in High School
(05:32) Adapting to Global Work Cultures
(07:25) Leaving Google to Launch Her Startup
(13:08) The Challenges of Starting a Business
(16:28) How Mentors Shaped Her Startup Journey
(18:15) How to Approach Mergers and Acquisitions
(21:03) Key Lessons From Investing in 200+ Startups
(29:41) Fundraising Realities and Strategies
(33:36) The Mission Behind Hustle Fund
(35:23) Navigating Stereotypes and Rejection
(41:13) How to Decide Whether to Raise Capital
(45:16) Handling Identity Shifts as an Entrepreneur
(51:14) Building a Network Through Angel Investing
Elizabeth Yin is a co-founder and General Partner at Hustle Fund, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups. She founded LaunchBit, an adtech company acquired in 2014, and was a partner at 500 Startups, where she invested in seed-stage companies. Elizabeth has reviewed over 20,000 startup pitches and assisted numerous portfolio founders in raising hundreds of millions of dollars.
Connect with Elizabeth:
Elizabeth’s Website: elizabethyin.com
Elizabeth’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/elizabethyin/
Resources Mentioned:
Hustle Fund’s Website: hustlefund.vc/
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
After her first startup collapsed, Ilana Golan lost her job, salary, and investment. Feeling like a failure, she spiraled into doubt and uncertainty. But instead of giving up, she made a promise not to be the person who does nothing. That decision led her to reinvent herself and found Leap Academy, a community helping others make bold career shifts. In this 2025 LeapCon, Ilana shares her emotional journey from feeling stuck in her career to becoming an impactful leader. She provides actionable insights for navigating hidden markets, building a personal brand, and growing continuously in your career.
Ilana Golan is an entrepreneur, board director, and investor in over 100 companies. As the founder of Leap Academy, she helps professionals navigate career transitions, leadership, and personal branding.
In this episode, Ilana will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(02:27) The Power of Dreaming Big
(05:06) Breaking Free From Career Stagnation
(09:21) Turning Tragedy into Fuel
(11:49) The Collapse of Her First Startup
(16:06) How to Reinvent Yourself Again and Again
(18:12) The Cycle of Ego, Fear, and Growth
(21:35) Handling Critics and Naysayers
(22:49) Building True Confidence in Business
(25:34) How to Open Doors in Hidden Markets
(26:36) The Three Levels of Personal Branding
(30:11) Learning From Others to Accelerate Growth
(31:41) Inspiring Success Stories From Leap Academy
Ilana Golan is an entrepreneur, board director, and investor in over 100 companies. As the founder of Leap Academy, she helps professionals navigate career transitions, leadership, and personal branding. She has been recognized as a Silicon Valley Woman of Influence, a Top 40 Woman to Watch, and a CEO World Award winner. Ilana is also a sought-after keynote speaker and has been featured on Yahoo Finance, Fox, NBC, and more.
Connect with Ilana:
Ilana’s Website: ilanagolan.com
Ilana’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ilanagolan
Resources Mentioned:
Leap Academy Website: leapacademy.com
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
Bastiano Ferrari’s journey is one of resilience and perseverance against all odds. At just 11 years old, he faced financial hardship when his father lost everything. Despite his family’s disapproval, he pursued his passion for acting, even when it meant sleeping on beanbags and struggling to eat. But with his mother to care for, Bastiano had to pause acting to launch a tech company that ultimately gave him the financial freedom to return to Hollywood, where he earned an Emmy nomination. In this episode, Bastiano joins Ilana to share how resilience and bold decisions shaped his success in both Hollywood and tech, bridging two seemingly different worlds.
Bastiano Ferrari is an Emmy-nominated producer, actor, and entrepreneur. Despite setbacks, Bastiano leveraged his experiences to create a unique portfolio career that spans film, tech, and entrepreneurship.
In this episode, Ilana and Bastiano will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:20) From Wealth to Hardship as a Child
(05:11) Pursuing Acting Despite Family Opposition
(06:36) Launching and Selling His Startup
(07:38) Balancing a Career in Tech and Film
(10:37) Overcoming Challenges Through Resilience
(15:28) The Key to Thriving in Adversity
(17:43) How to Build Valuable Connections
(21:14) Thriving in Multiple Careers Without Burning Out
(23:39) Hollywood vs. Tech: The Illusion of Success
(28:20) The Power of Big, Scary Dreams
(31:29) Why He Has No Regrets About Failure
(33:30) New Film Project and AI Innovations
Bastiano Ferrari is an Emmy-nominated producer, actor, and entrepreneur. After facing significant financial hardship, he took a break from acting and co-founded a tech startup that was acquired in 2013. Returning to Hollywood, he worked with major stars like Will Smith, earning Emmy nominations along the way. Despite setbacks, Bastiano leveraged his experiences to create a unique portfolio career that spans film, tech, and entrepreneurship.
Connect with Bastiano:
Bastiano’s Instagram: instagram.com/bastianoferrari
Resources Mentioned:
Bad Boys for Life: imdb.com/title/tt1502397
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
David Simas grew up in a Portuguese immigrant family in Massachusetts. His mother, who lost two fingers in a factory accident, instilled in him the power of resilience and the importance of community. These lessons shaped his career, from practicing law to advising President Obama on key national issues and eventually leading the Obama Foundation, where he worked with global leaders to promote democracy and address critical global challenges. In this episode, David joins Ilana to share valuable insights on navigating political crises, leading with empathy, and maintaining personal balance during high-stress moments in public service.
David Simas is a lawyer, political strategist, and former CEO and president of the Obama Foundation. He served as White House Director of Political Strategy and Outreach during the Obama administration and has held key roles in state and federal government.
In this episode, Ilana and David will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:53) Growing Up in a Portuguese Immigrant Family
(05:10) Family Struggles and Community Support
(09:03) How Legal Training Shaped His Perspective
(16:57) Transitioning from Law to Politics
(19:44) The Call That Led Him to the White House
(23:19) Why Obama’s Team Chose David
(27:30) Giving the People a Voice in the Oval Office
(32:11) How Great Leaders Handle Crisis
(36:38) Balancing Humility and Authority in Leadership
(40:28) Navigating Political Pressure and Public Scrutiny
(51:12) The Power of Personal Responsibility
David Simas is a lawyer, political strategist, and former CEO and president of the Obama Foundation. He served as White House Director of Political Strategy and Outreach during the Obama administration and has held key roles in state and federal government, advising on political engagement and policy strategy. He is currently the Managing Director of Research and Impact at Emerson Collective, where he focuses on democracy, immigration, education, and climate initiatives.
Connect with David:
David’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-simas/
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training -
Amy Porterfield had a dream job working with Tony Robbins, one of the world’s top motivational speakers and business strategists. But deep down, she wanted to be her own boss. During a high-level meeting, she realized she was on the wrong side of the table, watching entrepreneurs build wealth instead of becoming one. With no plan, no clients, and no backup, she left corporate life and built a $100 million online business. In this episode, Amy joins Ilana to share how she overcame imposter syndrome, depression, and anxiety to create a balanced life and the mindset shift that took her from employee to multimillion-dollar entrepreneur.
Amy Porterfield is an online marketing expert, entrepreneur, and bestselling author. She has helped thousands of people break free from traditional 9-to-5 jobs and create financial freedom through entrepreneurship.
In this episode, Ilana and Amy will discuss:
(00:00) Introduction
(01:44) Entrepreneurial Lessons from Childhood
(03:35) Landing a Dream Job with Tony Robbins
(07:46) The Three Biggest Lessons from Working with Tony
(11:51) The Moment That Made Her Quit Corporate
(14:48) Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Depression
(21:24) Finding Strength in Support Systems
(24:24) How to Transition from Employee to Entrepreneur
(27:32) Navigating the First Two Years in Business
(29:21) Redefining Success to Avoid Burnout
(35:20) Handling Hate and Criticism Online
(38:19) Shifting Your Money Mindset to Scale Faster
(43:35) Creating and Selling Profitable Digital Courses
(46:05) Why Mistakes Are the Key to Growth
Amy Porterfield is an online marketing expert, entrepreneur, and bestselling author. She runs a $100 million company teaching entrepreneurs how to create, market, and sell profitable digital courses. As the host of the Online Marketing Made Easy podcast and bestselling author of Two Weeks Notice, she has helped thousands of people break free from traditional 9-to-5 jobs and create financial freedom through entrepreneurship.
Connect with Amy:
Amy’s Website: amyporterfield.com
Amy’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amyporterfield
Resources Mentioned:
Amy’s Book, Two Weeks Notice: Find the Courage to Quit Your Job, Make More Money, Work Where You Want, and Change the World: https://www.amazon.com/Two-Weeks-Notice-Courage-Change/dp/1401969879
The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About by Mel Robbins: https://www.amazon.com/Let-Them-Theory-Life-Changing-Millions/dp/1401971369
Leap Academy:
Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.
Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training - Mostrar mais
