How to Become: A CEO

Bernhard talks with Fellipe about his path from a teenage martial arts hobbyist in Northeast Brazil to a professional Jiu Jitsu athlete, coach, and black belt competitor. They cover the realities of training full time, surviving on sponsors and teaching, and how mindset, nutrition, and pressure management shaped his career.In this episode, Fellipe shares how he built a life around Jiu Jitsu without finishing school, why he believes medals matter less than character, and how he prepares for major tournaments by focusing on pace, opponents, and recovery. The conversation also digs into his diet, hydration, strength training, and the mental shift required to compete at the highest level.Timestamps00:00 - Why Jiu Jitsu attracts people with unusual careers03:26 - Introducing Fellipe and how he started teaching03:58 - Starting martial arts and entering Jiu Jitsu as a teenager05:20 - First tournament, bad organization, and falling in love with competition07:33 - When Jiu Jitsu became a career path08:42 - Leaving school, factory work, and the move to São Paulo10:02 - Sponsors, teaching classes, and living as a purple belt athlete11:22 - Competing almost every week as a full time athlete12:39 - Winning money just to get home from tournaments16:05 - Getting to his first Worlds and funding the trip18:01 - Kawaka’s lesson: medals get old, character lasts19:41 - Getting the black belt in 201721:21 - Waiting to compete after the black belt promotion22:39 - Starting over at black belt and winning early23:37 - Moving from Brazil to Las Vegas and then San Diego26:24 - Competing through the pandemic and staying active27:17 - How Fellipe got invited to CJI28:20 - Why he performed well at CJI without overplanning30:27 - Pressure, money, and not fearing disappointing people32:32 - Why good professors should want students to beat them33:44 - Ego, training safety, and why jiu jitsu works35:33 - How he prepares for major tournaments37:39 - Tapering, resting, and staying sharp before competition38:36 - Training seriously by becoming one more athlete in the room39:14 - Weight class changes and why heavyweight fits him better41:21 - Diet changes, carbs, and hydration43:12 - Cutting weight from 208 to 185 and hiring a nutritionist44:26 - Why carb timing changed his performance45:40 - Macro targets and daily food volume48:54 - Strength training and relying on mat work for cardio50:12 - Resting during exchanges and using pressure to recover51:24 - The toughest opponent he ever faced52:48 - Resetting after losses and facing rivals again55:44 - Game planning against elite guard players56:11 - How he starts matches against dangerous opponentsKey frameworksTrain like a professional before you are one: sleep, recovery, and consistency mattered as much as competition.Medals are consequences, not identity: focus on becoming a good person and example first.Pressure is mostly financial, not emotional: if people only support you when you win, they are not your people.Jiu Jitsu cardio is Jiu Jitsu cardio: the best conditioning for the sport is training the sport at a hard pace.Use the bracket, not panic: major tournament prep is about knowing likely opponents and sharpening the game you already have.

In this episode, Juan shares his unique journey from anthropology to land surveying, detailing the diverse roles within port land surveying, the path to licensure, and how AI might impact the future of the profession. Perfect for anyone curious about a career in surveying or considering a shift into this vital industry.Keywords: land surveying, port of Long Beach, hydrographic surveying, licensure, career path, AI in surveying, civil engineering, GIS, maritime construction, professional developmentKey topics:Juan's career transition from anthropology to surveyingRoles and responsibilities within port land surveyingPathways to becoming a licensed land surveyorThe impact of AI and technology on surveyingOpportunities and benefits of working in public sector surveyingThe importance of mentorship and education in surveyingFuture demand for land surveyors due to retiring workforcePractical steps for high school students interested in surveying

Robbie shares his journey from working in construction to becoming a licensed electrician and entrepreneur. He discusses the trades, licensing processes, career progression, and advice for aspiring electricians.Keywords:electrician, trades, licensing, career, construction, union, entrepreneurship, apprenticeship, California, New YorkKey Topics:Robbie's background and how he entered the electrical tradeThe process of becoming a licensed electrician in California and New YorkDifferences between union and non-union licensing and work experienceThe importance of responsibility, attention to detail, and punctuality in the tradeThe role of a foreman and managing large projectsChallenges in starting a new electrical business and licensing hurdlesThe value of trades over traditional college pathsInternational opportunities and travel within the electrical industryAdvice for young people considering a career in tradesThe impact of AI and technology on skilled tradesChapters:00:00 Robbie's background and entry into the electrical trade03:01 How Robbie transitioned from construction to electrical work1505:32:45 The licensing process in California and New York2461:06:07 Pitfalls to avoid during apprenticeship and licensing33027:46:17 Becoming a foreman and managing large projects41666:39:42 Starting his own electrical business56777:46:26 Challenges of licensing and paperwork for entrepreneurs66444:26:28 Advice for young people and the future of trades

Sarah shares her inspiring journey from television production to leading creative operations in fashion, emphasizing the importance of following passions, taking risks, and continuous learning. This episode offers practical advice for career growth, navigating industry changes, and balancing creativity with business needs.Keywords: career development, creative leadership, fashion industry, risk-taking, continuous learning, work-life balance, industry transitions, networking, negotiation, AI in creative workKey topics:Sarah's career transition from television to fashionThe importance of following passion and continuous learningNavigating industry changes and embracing new skills like AIStrategies for effective networking and negotiationBalancing creative freedom with business constraintsChapters00:00Introduction to Sarah's career journey55:32:50Industry changes and adaptability61:06:13Negotiating pay and understanding worth66:39:35Leadership and managing egos in creative teams83:19:35The impact of industry buyouts and layoffs888:52:59The role of testing, learning, and building in career growth1055:32:59The importance of purpose and impact in work1194:26:19Advice for young professionals and students1527:46:19The value of education and following passions1666:39:39Balancing creative inspiration with business constraints1722:12:59Integrating AI to enhance efficiency without replacing creativity1944:26:19Transition to current company and industry evolution2249:59:39Working within a larger corporate structure3083:19:39Traits of effective creative directors3888:52:59Supporting and empowering creative teams3916:39:39Managing busy seasons and project deadlines3999:59:39Work-life balance and predictability in creative roles4222:12:59Advice to 17-year-old Sarah and future generations4249:59:42The importance of persistence, networking, and staying true to passions4305:33:02Closing thoughts and gratitude

In this episode, Josh Sherwin, a U.S. Navy Chaplain, shares insights on the role of religion in the military, the importance of maintaining professionalism, and how faith supports service members in challenging environments. Discover how faith, morality, and leadership intersect in military life.Keywords: military chaplain, religion in the military, faith and leadership, morality in war, spiritual connection, Navy, religious services, First Amendment, moral dilemmas, military professionalismKey topics:The significance of the left and right collar in military rank and influenceThe importance of professionalism and standards for military officersThe role of religious services and faith in deployed environmentsLegal foundations of religious freedom in the military under the First AmendmentThe moral dilemmas faced by military personnel in combat situationsThe impact of faith on resilience and moral injury in warThe importance of spiritual connection and personal belief systemsAdvice for young people considering military service or faith-based careersTakeaways:The left collar signifies access and influence, while the right collar signifies professionalism and standards.Military officers must balance personal faith with the expectations of their role and the law.Religious services in the military are protected by the First Amendment and are vital for morale.Faith provides a moral compass and resilience for service members in high-stress environments.Chaplains help service members navigate moral and ethical dilemmas in combat.Maintaining professionalism and discipline is crucial for military effectiveness.Spirituality is a personal lens that helps individuals make sense of the world.Openness to opportunities and following passions can lead to unexpected paths.Chapters00:00 Career Exploration and Job Options02:42 The Role of a Navy Chaplain03:22 Military Training and Deployment Experiences04:20 Challenges and Responsibilities of Being a Chaplain09:22 Interfaith Education and Deployment Experiences in Afghanistan18:32 Promotion Process for Chaplains19:03 Career Progression and Promotion21:11 Varied Roles and Responsibilities23:39 Educational Background and Training26:57 Chaplaincy in the Medical Field34:32 Personality Traits of a Good Chaplain36:36 Balancing the Influence of the Left and Right Collar577:46:36 Religious Services and Faith in Naval Deployments922:13:16 Legal Foundations of Religious Freedom in the Military1416:39:58 The Importance of Faith and Morality in Service1758:20:00 Leading Inclusive and Respectful Religious Services2050:00:00 Spirituality as a Lens to View the World2263:53:20 Moral Dilemmas and Ethical Challenges in Combat2725:00:00 Supporting Isolated and Morally Injured Service Members2936:06:40 Advice to Young Josh and Embracing OpportunitiesMusic licensed through Soundstripe.Code: TB6ZR281P4E0AL0Z

Join us as we explore Lauren's remarkable journey from CPA to CEO of a tribal casino, navigating economic crises, leadership challenges, and the unique environment of working directly for a tribe. Discover insights on strategic decision-making, building trust, and balancing work-life priorities.Keywords: Leadership, CEO journey, Tribal casino, Strategic decision-making, Work-life balance, Financial management, Crisis leadership, Organizational cultureKey topics:Career progression from CPA to CEOLeadership during economic crisesUnique environment of tribal governance and businessStrategic planning and long-term vision in gaming industryWork-life balance and personal disciplineChapters:00:00Introduction and Career Beginnings02:59Lawrence's Path to Leadership07:06Impact of 2001 Financial Crisis on Career11:51Transition from Audit to Casino Finance16:48Moving to CFO Role in a Tribal Casino22:30Becoming CEO During COVID-19 Crisis26:13Leading Through the Pandemic and Construction Challenges29:58Communicating Vision and Building Trust31:39Working with Tribal Leadership and Stakeholders34:43Revitalizing the Casino Post-Pandemic36:12Key Skills for Effective Leadership39:45Decision-Making Under Uncertainty42:34Work-Life Balance and Personal Discipline43:33Rewarding Aspects of Leadership44:16Advice to Young Lawrence

SummaryIn this episode, Trevi shares his journey from Navy ophthalmic tech to a successful medical device sales professional. He discusses the importance of certifications, navigating a competitive field, and the value of practical experience over traditional college degrees.Keywordsmedical sales, ophthalmology, career advice, certifications, Navy experience, healthcare industry, surgical sales, career transitionKey topicsPathways into medical device sales without a traditional degreeThe importance of certifications and continuous learningInsights into the competitive and dynamic field of surgical salesChapters00:00 The Changing Landscape of Education and Employment02:45 Navigating a Career in Medical Device Sales06:03 The Journey from Military to Medical Field08:57 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Career Growth12:02 The Importance of Communication in Healthcare14:32 Certifications and Career Advancement17:43 Finding Opportunities in Medical Sales20:36 The Role of Experience in Career Development24:47 Transitioning to Sales in Medical Field26:30 Understanding Sales Quotas and Performance Pressure27:55 Managing Stress in Sales29:36 Daily Life of a Medical Sales Rep31:50 Cold Calling and Building Relationships33:44 Navigating Regulations in Medical Sales34:57 Work-Life Balance in Medical Sales39:35 Advice for Young Professionals43:40 Career Pathways in Medical Sales

Summary: In this in-depth interview, Eric shares his journey from a print salesman to a successful coffee roaster and entrepreneur. Discover the science behind coffee roasting, the challenges of sourcing and tariffs, and how to differentiate in a competitive market.Keywords: Coffee roasting, coffee business, coffee science, entrepreneurship, sourcing, tariffs, coffee industry, organic coffee, wholesale, subscription serviceKey topics:Coffee roasting science and techniquesBusiness strategies for coffee entrepreneursSourcing and supply chain management in coffee industryGuest name: Eric MedinaSound Bites:"A good roast is like baking cookies.""Light roasts are the most difficult to perfect.""Each region has unique flavor profiles."Chapters:00:00From La Jolla to Italy: Education in Coffee Science02:21The Impact of Coffee Science Education03:35Starting Libra Coffee in San Diego04:30The Master's Program in Italy: Trieste and Illicafe05:50The Mission: Giving Back with Coffee07:06First Steps After Graduation: Building the Business08:34Buying a Turnkey Roaster: Pros and Cons10:01Roasting Techniques: First Roast and Flavor Development11:49Understanding First and Second Crack in Roasting13:34Challenges of Light vs Dark Roasts14:09From First Batch to Consistent Product14:41Market Preferences: Light vs Dark Roast15:44Customer Segments and Business Models16:23Wholesale, Private Label, and Volume Strategies17:25Sourcing Green Coffee: Relationships and Economics18:32Supply Chain and Reliability in Coffee Sourcing19:21From Cherry to Cup: Coffee Growing and Harvesting21:16Processing Methods: Natural vs Washed Coffee22:30Quality Factors in Green Coffee Selection23:13Regional Flavor Profiles and Blends23:58Market Trends: Blends vs Single Origin25:14Global Coffee Supply Chain and Tariffs26:52Impact of Tariffs and War on Coffee Prices28:09Advice for Aspiring Coffee Entrepreneurs28:48Starting Small: Equipment and Licensing Tips30:01Day-to-Day Challenges of Coffee Business30:58Differentiating Your Coffee Brand32:11Delivery and Customer Engagement32:52Join the Libra Coffee Team33:14The Art of Coffee Branding35:25The Value of Organic Certification38:27Advice for Young Entrepreneurs39:47The Journey to Coffee Mastery40:17Hands-On Learning and Career Opportunities

Summary: In this conversation, Nicole shares her journey from being a CPA at PWC to becoming a CFO in the biotech industry. She discusses the importance of mentorship, the challenges of work-life balance in public accounting, and the skills necessary for success in finance. Nicole emphasizes the value of continuous professional development and encourages young professionals, especially women, to seek out networking opportunities and not be discouraged in their career paths.Keywords: CFO, career path, accounting, CPA, work-life balance, corporate finance, professional development, women in leadership, biotechTakeaways:Nicole is the CFO at a biotech company.She transitioned from a CPA at PWC to CFO, emphasizing the importance of mentorship.Becoming a CPA requires a graduate degree and passing four exams.Working in audit provides valuable experience and develops soft skills.Career progression in accounting firms is structured and offers clear advancement paths.Work-life balance can be challenging in public accounting, especially during busy seasons.Transitioning to corporate finance involves leveraging industry-specific knowledge.International experience can enhance understanding of different accounting standards.Continuous professional development is crucial for career advancement.Women in finance should seek mentorship and networking opportunities.Sound Bites:"You learn a lot very quickly.""You can't do it all alone.""Don't be discouraged."Chapters:00:00Introduction to Nicole LaBrosse02:41Role and Responsibilities of a CFO04:38Becoming a CPA07:38Experience in Audit at Big Four Firms09:31Career Progression in Public Accounting13:45Work-Life Balance in Accounting Firms15:29Transitioning to Corporate World17:27Specialization in Accounting Industries19:25International Experience in Accounting22:30Career Progression to CFO24:03Overcoming Imposter Syndrome27:08Support and Development at Halos-Ime29:35Balancing Work and Home Life30:51Essential Skills for CFO Success33:21Navigating Career Paths in Finance35:15Understanding Different CFO Backgrounds38:07Challenges in the Biotech Industry39:48Advice for Aspiring CFOs43:06Empowering Women in Finance45:05Impacting Patients' Lives

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Tommy, an aerospace engineer with a unique career journey from working on the B2 bomber to supporting future programs like the B21. The conversation covers Tomy's career progression from working on the production line to pursuing an engineering degree and transitioning into manufacturing and engineering roles. It explores the challenges in manufacturing, the involvement in aircraft design, and the benefits of a career in the aerospace industry. The conversation covers Tomy's career transition, early work experience, travel, work-life balance, security clearance, career advancement, automation, career progression, challenges at work, product satisfaction, and advice for career reflection. Tomy reflects on his journey, work experiences, and the impact of technology on his role, providing insights into career decisions and challenges.Keywords:Aerospace Engineering, Manufacturing, Career Development, Automation, AI, Northrop Grumman, B2 Bomber, B21, Military TechnologyKey Topics:Career transition from line worker to engineerImpact of automation and AI in aerospace manufacturingCollaborative processes in aerospace design and productionAction Items:Focus on gaining hands-on experience in manufacturing.Leverage company-sponsored education programs.Stay adaptable to technological changes in aerospace.Sound bites:"Seeing the B2 fly still gives me chills.""Work hard and listen to everybody, experience is key.""All that graybeard knowledge is starting to retire."Chapters:00:00 Working on the B2 Bomber and Career Progression02:56 Supporting Future Programs: The B21 and Beyond07:28 Balancing Work, Education, and Family12:15 The Role of Manufacturing Technology and Engineering16:48 Collaborative Design and Manufacturing Processes22:19 Impact of Automation and AI in Aerospace26:54 Security Protocols and Workplace Environment31:24 Materials, Challenges, and Big Problems in Manufacturing38:42 The Satisfaction of Seeing the Final Product Fly39:36 Advice to 17-Year-Old Tommy and Career Insights42:17 Tommy's Journey: From High School to Career Success43:16 The Value of Practical Experience and MentorshipResources:Northrop Grumman Official Site - https://www.northropgrumman.comEmbry-Riddle Aeronautical University - https://www.erau.eduF-35 Lightning II - https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/f-35.htmlB2 Spirit Stealth Bomber - https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104503/b-2-spirit/B21 Raider Future Stealth Bomber - https://www.northropgrumman.com/aircraft/b-21-raider/