Despite outward success, Brad Feld struggled with depression, exhaustion, and feelings of emptiness. For years, he hid these challenges while relentlessly pushing forward as an entrepreneur. It wasn’t until his 40s, after seeking therapy and confronting his mental health, that Brad realized success wasn’t just about building companies, but about managing the emotional toll of entrepreneurship. Today, as the co-founder of Techstars and Foundry Group, he leads with a harmonious approach to work and life. In this episode, Brad joins Ilana to share the lessons he learned from early failures, why every successful founder faces ‘near-death moments’, and the mental health practices that helped him find joy again. Brad Feld is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Techstars, one of the world’s leading startup accelerators. He is also the co-founder of two venture capital firms, Foundry Group and Mobius Venture Capital. In this episode, Ilana and Brad discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:07) Growing Up in Dallas and Discovering Computers (07:29) MIT Years and Early Startup Failures (14:17) Why Every Startup Faces a Near-Death Experience (16:54) Battling Fear, Shame, and Depression in His Twenties (26:52) Breaking Down at 47 Despite “Having It All” (29:05) Brad’s Practical Steps for Rediscovering Joy (41:54) The Random Day Experiment and Birth of Techstars (52:47) Writing Venture Deals, Startup Communities, and Give First (59:26) Coming Out of “Hibernation” to Write His Last Non-Fiction (1:13:39) Work-Life Balance vs. Work-Life Harmony Brad Feld is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Techstars, one of the world’s leading startup accelerators. He is also the co-founder of two venture capital firms, Foundry Group and Mobius Venture Capital. Brad is the author of nine books, including Venture Deals, Startup Communities, and Give First. Through his books, investments, and philosophy of “give first,” Brad has become a mentor to thousands of entrepreneurs navigating the brutal highs and lows of building a business. Connect with Brad:  Brad’s Website: feld.com Brad’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bfeld  Resources Mentioned Brad’s Book, Give First: The Power of Mentorship: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1646871324  Brad’s Book, Startup Communities: Building an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Your City: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1118441540  Venture Deals: Be Smarter Than Your Lawyer and Venture Capitalist by Brad Feld and Jason Mendelson: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1118443616  Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up by Jerry Colonna: https://www.amazon.com/dp/0062749536 Leap Academy Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities.Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training

Brendan Kane didn’t break into Hollywood through connections. He started out making coffee on film sets. Spotting the untapped power of MySpace and YouTube, he launched one of the first influencer campaigns, catching the attention of studio executives and A-list actors like Jason Statham. That bold move launched his journey from Hollywood to advising global icons such as Taylor Swift and Rihanna on social media strategy. In this episode, Brendan joins Ilana to reveal how he built one million followers in just 30 days, the formula for going viral, and the psychology behind grabbing and holding attention. Brendan Kane is a digital marketing expert who has helped top celebrities, Fortune 500 companies, and entrepreneurs dominate social media and generate millions in revenue. He specializes in data-driven strategies that drive massive social media engagement. In this episode, Ilana and Brendan will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (02:07) His Childhood Love for Movies and Storytelling (03:17) Breaking into Hollywood Without Connections (08:16) The Bold Move That Led to Working With A-List Actors (10:37) Diving into Tech and Working with Taylor Swift, Rihanna, etc (17:51) Lessons from Managing $100M in YouTube Ad Spend (22:06) Uncovering the Secrets to Social Media Success (27:40) How Brendan Hit a Million Followers in 30 Days (34:51) Strategies for Marketing Bestselling Books (39:10) How to Adapt to Ever-Changing Platforms (44:01) Low-Cost Strategies to Stand Out on Social Media (45:35) Navigating the Challenges of Entrepreneurship Brendan Kane is a digital marketing expert who has helped top celebrities, Fortune 500 companies, and entrepreneurs dominate social media and generate millions in revenue. Known for building a following of over 1 million in just 30 days, Brendan specializes in data-driven strategies that drive massive social media engagement. He is the bestselling author of One Million Followers, Hook Point, and The Guide to Going Viral, where he reveals proven methods for scaling influence in today’s noisy digital world. Connect with Brendan: Brendan’s Website: brendanjkane.com  Brendan’s Instagram: instagram.com/brendankane  Resources Mentioned: Get Brendan’s Book, The Guide to Going Viral, for FREE: hookpoint.com/leap  Download Brendan’s Book, Hook Point for Free: hookpoint.com  Brendan’s Book, One Million Followers: How I Built a Massive Social Following in 30 Days: https://www.amazon.com/One-Million-Followers-Updated-Following/dp/195066547X  The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Timothy Ferriss: https://www.amazon.com/4-Hour-Workweek-Escape-Live-Anywhere/dp/0307465357  Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities. Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training

George Kurian’s journey from a modest upbringing in Kerala, India, to becoming CEO of NetApp is an extraordinary story. George worked cafeteria shifts and construction jobs to pay his way through Princeton before climbing the ranks at Oracle, McKinsey, and Cisco. In this episode, George opens up about the weight of being a “rookie CEO” responsible for 12,000 people, the discipline of saying no to 97% of ideas, and the humility it takes to lead through uncertainty. He and Ilana explore resilience, focus, and the future of AI, while revealing how diverse experiences and family values shaped his leadership philosophy. George Kurian is CEO of NetApp, a Fortune 500 data infrastructure and cloud services company. Under his leadership, NetApp has strengthened its cloud-first and data services strategy, growing into a $20 billion company. In this episode, Ilana and George will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (02:20) Family Role Models and Upbringing (06:00) Landing a Princeton Scholarship and Learning to Survive (09:20) Lessons from Oracle and McKinsey (13:50) Why George Left Cisco to Join NetApp (16:45) How Cafeteria Work Inspired NetApp’s Engineering Process (19:40) The ‘30-30-30’ Rule for Driving Organizational Change (22:40) George’s Journey to Becoming CEO Overnight (26:30) First-Time CEO Challenges and Leadership Struggles (30:40) Why a CEO Should Say “No” to 97% of Ideas (33:10) Betting on Cloud Partnerships Instead of Competing (37:15) The Power of Choosing Your Path and Tackling Hard Problems George Kurian is CEO of NetApp, a Fortune 500 data infrastructure and cloud services company. Before joining NetApp in 2011, he had built a diverse tech career that included leadership roles at Oracle, McKinsey, Cisco, and Akamai. Under his leadership, NetApp has strengthened its cloud-first and data services strategy, growing into a $20 billion company. Connect with George: George’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/georgekuriannetapp Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities. Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training

Klaus Kleinfeld’s journey from a difficult childhood in Germany to leading two Fortune 500 companies, Siemens and Alcoa, was anything but easy. He experienced  the true cost of leadership: the loneliness of making impossible decisions and the grit to push forward when every alternative seems bleak. In this episode, Klaus joins Ilana to share how resilience and freedom shaped his leadership philosophy. They dive into his shift from time management to energy management, exploring lessons from sports, breathing techniques, and mindset practices that helped him lead various multi-billion dollar businesses without burnout.  Dr. Klaus Kleinfeld is a German entrepreneur, investor, and former CEO of Siemens AG, Alcoa Inc., and ARconic. He is also the founder and CEO of the investment firm K2Elevation and was named director of Saudi Arabia's Neom initiative, later becoming an advisor to the Crown Prince. In this episode, Ilana and Klaus will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (02:01) Early Life and Family Tragedy (07:31) East vs. West Germany and Freedom (12:01) His Love for Problem-Solving (18:01) Creating a Strong Feedback Culture (23:31) Becoming the CEO of Siemens (30:01) The Loneliness of Leadership (35:31) Letting People Go with Respect (40:01) Facing Fear and Regret (45:31) Energy Over Time Management (50:01) Building a Passionate and High-Performance Team Dr. Klaus Kleinfeld is a German entrepreneur, investor, and former CEO of Siemens AG, Alcoa Inc., and ARconic. He is also the founder and CEO of the investment firm K2Elevation and was named director of Saudi Arabia's Neom initiative, later becoming an advisor to the Crown Prince. As the author of Leading to Thrive, Klaus offers a framework for blending personal well-being with strategic leadership.  Connect with Klaus: Klaus’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/klauskleinfeld Resources Mentioned: Klaus’s Book, Leading to Thrive: Mastering Strategies for Sustainable Success in Business and Life: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Thrive-Mastering-Strategies-Sustainable/dp/1544546718 The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward by Daniel Pink: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Regret-Looking-Backward-Forward/dp/0735210659 Open: An Autobiography by Andre Agassi: https://www.amazon.com/Open-Autobiography-Andre-Agassi/dp/0307388409 Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities. Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training

Nathan Blecharczyk, co-founder of Airbnb, built his first software business as a teenager, earning nearly a million dollars before shutting it down to attend Harvard. Years later, Nathan and his roommates turned an air mattress idea into Airbnb, facing investor rejection, financial hardship, and moments when quitting seemed inevitable. From creating satirical cereal boxes to joining Y Combinator after a near-failed interview, Nathan’s story is one of perseverance and resilience. He shares how Airbnb overcame early struggles, scaled globally, and survived COVID-19 to go public successfully. Nathan Blecharczyk is the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Airbnb, where he helped grow the platform from a spare air mattress idea to a $75 billion global travel company. According to Forbes, he is one of the richest people in the world, with a net worth of $9 billion. In this episode, Ilana and Nathan will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:36) Building a Software Business as a Teen (05:28) Harvard, First Job, and the Decision to Move West (11:58) The Birth of AirBed & Breakfast (15:07) Landing Their  First Guests and Gaining Early Validation (18:03) Investor Rejection and the Obama O’s Cereal Stunt (30:45) Applying to Y Combinator and Getting In (36:29) Finding Evangelists and Meeting Hosts in New York (42:34) From $200 a Week to $4,200: Airbnb’s First Growth Curve (44:59) Global Expansion, Competitors, and Building Teams Abroad (52:22) The 2020 Crisis: COVID, Collapse, and Reinvention (59:21) The Future of Travel  Nathan Blecharczyk is the co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Airbnb, where he helped grow the platform from a spare air mattress idea to a $75 billion global travel company. A Harvard graduate and self-taught programmer, Nathan has been instrumental in Airbnb’s international expansion and strategy, navigating challenges from investor rejection to the COVID-19 crisis. According to Forbes, he is one of the richest people in the world, with a net worth of $9 billion. Connect with Nathan: Nathan’s LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/blecharczyk⁠ Airbnb’s Website: ⁠https://www.airbnb.com⁠ Resources Mentioned: Y Combinator: ⁠https://www.ycombinator.com⁠Only the Paranoid Survive by Andy Grove: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Only-Paranoid-Survive-Exploit-Challenge/dp/0385483821⁠ Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities. Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training

After 12 years of working in corporate advertising, Case Kenny launched a podcast, New Mindset, Who Dis? as a personal experiment. In its first month, the show drew 57,000 downloads, yet Case kept it hidden, afraid it didn’t fit his professional image. Over time, he embraced his vulnerability, created bestselling guided journals, and built a brand helping millions live more optimistic and mindful lives. In this episode, Case joins Ilana to share how a side project turned into a multi-million-dollar portfolio career, why regret is his decision-making compass, and how choosing the right words can change the way you live. Case Kenny is an author, entrepreneur, and host of the globally recognized podcast, New Mindset, Who Dis?. Known for his work in mindfulness and personal growth, he has built a multi-million-dollar brand through writing, guided journals, and speaking engagements. In this episode, Ilana and Case will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:42) From Language Studies to Corporate Advertising (05:07) Starting the Podcast Without Clarity (07:43) Overcoming the Fear of Vulnerability (09:04) Stepping Fully into a New Identity (14:14) When Passion Becomes a Business (16:53) COVID, Journals, and a Turning Point in Sales (18:10) Why Journaling Works and How to Start (25:01) Building a Connected Portfolio Career (27:40) Business Challenges and Six-Figure Losses (33:09) Battling Expectations, Regret, and Trust as a Default (42:10) Defining Mindfulness and Advice to Case’s Younger Self Case Kenny is an author, entrepreneur, and host of the globally recognized podcast, New Mindset, Who Dis?, a podcast with tens of millions of downloads. Known for his work in mindfulness and personal growth, he has built a multi-million-dollar brand through writing, guided journals, and speaking engagements. His work has been featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, Forbes, and NBC. Connect with Case: Case’s Website: casekenny.com Case’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/casekenny/ Case’s Instagram: instagram.com/case.kenny Case’s YouTube: youtube.com/c/CaseKenny Resources Mentioned: Case’s Podcast, New Mindset, Who Dis?:  pod.link/1383599078 The Opposite of Settling by Case Kenny: https://www.amazon.com/Opposite-Settling-Everything-Without-Losing/dp/1401995918 The Soul’s Code by James Hillman: https://www.amazon.com/Souls-Code-James-Hillman/dp/0517271036 That’s Bold of You by Case Kenny: https://www.amazon.com/Thats-Bold-You-Thrive-Vibrant/dp/B0BRDFLJNZ Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities. Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training

What do you do when the dream you've chased no longer fits? For Julia Hartz, it meant walking away from a promising career in Hollywood to dive into the unknown world of startups. As an intern on the set of Friends, she learned the value of kindness, clarity, and high standards. But the real test came in tech, where she bootstrapped through a downturn, faced 27 VC rejections, and ultimately co-founded Eventbrite, one of the world’s leading event ticketing platforms. In this episode, Julia joins Ilana to discuss her leap from TV to tech, how she led Eventbrite through a crisis, and how she continues to reinvent herself and her business.  Julia Hartz is the co-founder and CEO of Eventbrite, a global ticketing and event technology platform that empowers creators to bring people together through live experiences. In 2018, she took the company public on the New York Stock Exchange, making her one of the few female founders to lead a tech IPO. In this episode, Ilana and Julia will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:02) Julia’s Leap from Performance to Broadcasting (04:28) Her Internship on the Set of Friends (07:15) Discovering Her Path in TV Development at MTV (10:59) The Original Jackass Pilot and Startup-Like Creativity (14:55) Transitioning from MTV to FX and Facing Uncertainty (18:47) Leaving Hollywood to Build a Startup (26:43) The Product Strategy That Transformed Their Business (32:29) Getting 27 Rejections from VCs and Refusing to Quit (35:50) How the Financial Crisis Created Their Breakthrough (40:03) Reinventing Herself to Become CEO (46:05) How COVID Nearly Took Down Eventbrite (51:09) The One Rule She Always Comes Back To Julia Hartz is the co-founder and CEO of Eventbrite, a global ticketing and event technology platform that empowers creators to bring people together through live experiences. In 2018, she took the company public on the New York Stock Exchange, making her one of the few female founders to lead a tech IPO. Today, Eventbrite has powered millions of events and facilitated billions in ticket sales in 180 countries. Connect with Julia: Julia’s Website: eventbrite.com Julia’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/juliahartz Julia’s Instagram: instagram.com/juliahartz 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 getting laid off from his corporate job, Dan Shapiro launched his first startup, Photobucket Inc. (formerly Ontela), but faced nine months of rejection from investors and no funding. Despite these setbacks, his persistence led to a successful partnership, which later turned sour due to a managerial dispute. He took these lessons and went on to build multiple successful startups, including Glowforge, a $100M company revolutionizing 3D laser printing. In this episode, Dan joins Ilana to share the secrets to startup success, how to navigate entrepreneurial challenges, and what it takes to build a company that not only thrives but also transforms industries. Dan Shapiro is a serial entrepreneur, innovator, and CEO of Glowforge, a company that pioneered desktop laser technology, enabling creators to produce millions of custom products. He previously created Robot Turtles, the most successful board game in Kickstarter history, and founded Photobucket Inc. In this episode, Ilana and Dan will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:56) Early Upbringing and Entrepreneurial Drive (04:47) Corporate Experience at Microsoft (08:14) The "Poop Umbrella" Leadership Principle (11:42) The Darkest Nine Months of Dan's Career (16:39) Securing Funding Against All Odds (20:35) The Brutal Truth About Entrepreneurship (24:32) The PhotoBucket Merger: What Went Wrong? (27:56) From 67 Rejections to a Google Acquisition (31:38) CEO Strategy: Delegate vs. Lead (36:24) The Bold Strategy Behind Robot Turtles' Success (45:16) Building Glowforge: From Idea to $100M Business (51:47) Leadership Challenges and Ethical Dilemmas Dan Shapiro is a serial entrepreneur, innovator, and CEO of Glowforge, a company that pioneered desktop laser technology, enabling creators to produce millions of custom products. He previously created Robot Turtles, the most successful board game in Kickstarter history, and founded Photobucket Inc. Dan also served as CEO of Google Comparison Inc. after Google acquired his startup, Sparkbuy. He is the author of Hot Seat and a prolific innovator with over 60 patents to his name.  Connect with Dan: Dan’s Website: danshapiro.com  Dan’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danshapiro  Resources Mentioned: Dan’s Book, Hot Seat: The Startup CEO Guidebook: https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Seat-Startup-CEO-Guidebook/dp/1449360734  Glowforge: https://glowforge.com  From $500 Startup to Open Source Pioneer: How Tim O’Reilly Built a Media and Tech Legacy | E109: bit.ly/tim-oreilly-leap-academy  Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou: https://www.amazon.com/Bad-Blood-Secrets-Silicon-Startup/dp/152473165X  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

Dr. Josh Axe’s passion for health and wellness began when his mother’s breast cancer diagnosis led to chronic health issues after chemotherapy. Inspired by this, Josh pursued natural medicine, which helped her make a remarkable recovery when cancer returned. Years later, Josh faced a spinal infection that left him unable to walk. Doctors predicted permanent disability, but using the same healing mindset and natural methods that saved his mom, he defied the odds. In this episode, Josh joins Ilana to discuss the transformative power of belief, the keys to true health and success, and the secrets behind building a powerful personal brand. Dr. Josh Axe is a physician, entrepreneur, and leadership expert passionate about helping individuals use food and natural remedies to achieve optimal health and wellness. He is the founder of DrAxe.com and The Health Institute and the co-founder of Ancient Nutrition. In this episode, Ilana and Josh will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (02:06) The Cancer Battle That Sparked His Health Mission (05:29) The Role of Belief in Healing, Growth, and Success (14:34) Building DrAxe.com into a Digital Health Powerhouse (20:55) The Scary Moment He Almost Lost Everything (24:05) Overcoming the Fear of Charging What You’re Worth (26:06) Josh’s Strategies for Building a Scalable Brand (31:12) Simple Habits for Total Health Transformation (34:37) From Bedridden to Healed: The Power of Belief (42:38) Why Character Beats Accomplishments Dr. Josh Axe is a physician, entrepreneur, and leadership expert passionate about helping individuals use food and natural remedies to achieve optimal health and wellness. He is the founder of DrAxe.com and The Health Institute and the co-founder of Ancient Nutrition. His businesses have ranked among the Inc. 500’s fastest-growing companies. Josh is the host of The Dr. Josh Axe Show and the bestselling author of Eat Dirt, The Keto Diet, and Think This, Not That. Connect with Josh: Josh’s Website: draxe.com  Josh’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joshaxe  Resources Mentioned: Josh’s Book, Think This, Not That: 12 Mindshifts to Breakthrough Limiting Beliefs and Become Who You Were Born to Be: https://www.amazon.com/Think-This-Not-That-Breakthrough/dp/1400337844  Josh’s Podcast, The Dr. Josh Axe Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-josh-axe-show/id1700689487  The Health Institute: thehealthinstitute.com  Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap...And Others Don't by Jim Collins: https://www.amazon.com/Good-Great-Some-Companies-Others/dp/0066620996  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

Sahil Bloom was living the "dream" life, climbing the corporate ladder, earning well, and hitting all the career milestones. Yet, he felt unfulfilled. During a conversation with an old friend, he mentioned how he only saw his parents once a year. His friend's blunt remark, "You're going to see your parents 15 more times before they die," hit him hard, forcing him to reevaluate his priorities and reassess his idea of success. In this episode, Sahil joins Ilana to share how to overcome the fear of career transitions, build a life that aligns with your values, and find fulfillment beyond a paycheck. Sahil Bloom is an entrepreneur, investor, and writer focused on redefining wealth beyond money. Through his newsletter, The Curiosity Chronicle, Sahil offers actionable ideas for building a high-performing, healthy, and wealthy life. In this episode, Ilana and Sahil will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:46) The Cost of Chasing Traditional Success (04:33) Family Background and the Pressure to Succeed (08:41) What Baseball Taught Him About Life and Business (13:17) Unfulfillment Despite Corporate Success (18:50) Overcoming the Fear of Career Transition (23:35) Why Personal Growth and Change Can Feel Lonely (26:51) Turning Criticism into Fuel for Growth (29:34) Embracing Life’s Different Seasons (31:55) Writing The Five Types of Wealth (36:55) The Real Challenges in Entrepreneurship (41:24) How to Break Free When You’re Feeling Stuck Sahil Bloom is an entrepreneur, investor, and writer focused on redefining wealth beyond money. He is the author of the New York Times bestselling book The 5 Types of Wealth and the founder of SRB Ventures, an early-stage investment firm. Through his newsletter, The Curiosity Chronicle, Sahil offers actionable ideas for building a high-performing, healthy, and wealthy life. Connect with Sahil: Website: https://www.sahilbloom.com/#Hero  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sahilbloom  Resources Mentioned: Sahil’s Book, The 5 Types of Wealth: A Transformative Guide to Design Your Dream Life: https://www.amazon.com/Types-Wealth-Transformative-Guide-Design/dp/059372318X  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

When Christiana Figueres was a young mother, she longed to share her love of nature with her daughters, a love sparked by watching golden toads shimmer like coins under the moonlight in a Costa Rican forest. Hoping to show them this rare beauty, she returned to the same park, only to learn that the species had gone extinct due to rising temperatures. That moment ignited her mission to leave a better planet for her children. In this episode, Christiana joins Ilana to share her journey to becoming a United Nations Climate Change Executive Secretary and leading global climate efforts, including the historic 2015 Paris Agreement. Christiana Figueres is a Costa Rican diplomat and former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). She is best known for her role in securing the Paris Agreement, a landmark international climate treaty.  In this episode, Ilana and Christiana will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:53) Growing Up as Costa Rica’s President’s Daughter (06:24) The Life-Changing Experience in Rural Costa Rica (15:28) The Journey to Climate Change Advocacy (24:40) Key Lessons from the COP15 Climate Failure (30:45) Becoming UNFCCC Executive Secretary (35:50) Leading the Paris Agreement Negotiations (41:06) Building Trust in Global Climate Negotiations (47:39) Taking the Climate Mission Beyond the UN (51:03) Advice for Aspiring Change-Makers (54:05) Upcoming Projects and Digital Initiatives Christiana Figueres is a Costa Rican diplomat and former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). She is best known for her role in securing the Paris Agreement, a landmark international climate treaty. With decades of experience in climate diplomacy, Christiana is a passionate global advocate for climate action and sustainable development. She is also the co-founder of Global Optimism, co-host of the Outrage + Optimism podcast, and co-author of The Future We Choose. Connect with Christiana: Christiana’s Website: christianafigueres.com  Christiana’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christianafigueres  Resources Mentioned: Christiana’s Book, The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis: https://www.amazon.com/Future-We-Choose-Surviving-Climate/dp/0525658351  Christiana’s Podcast, Outrage + Optimism: outrageandoptimism.org Global Optimism: globaloptimism.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

Being scrappy wasn’t just a choice for Gary ‘Vee’ Vaynerchuk; it was his only way forward. After years of growing his family’s wine business, he was left with nothing of his own. With no money to rent an office or hire employees, Gary leveraged his grit, relationships, and opportunities to launch VaynerMedia. Overcoming the financial, mental, and emotional hurdles of entrepreneurship, he built his company into a multi-million-dollar media empire. In this episode, Gary joins Ilana to reveal the mindset and strategies you need to overcome obstacles and build your own multi-million-dollar business. Gary Vaynerchuk, famously known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur, chairman of VaynerX, CEO of VaynerMedia and VeeFriends, and a six-time New York Times bestselling author. Recognized as one of the most forward-thinking minds in business, culture, and the internet, Gary helps brands stay ahead by spotting trends early. In this episode, Ilana and Gary will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:40) VaynerMedia's Scrappy Beginnings (06:56) Why Businesses Fail Financially (10:01) Navigating Tough Business Days (17:21) The Risk of Over-Transparency in Leadership (19:44) Dealing with Failure and Public Ridicule (22:10) GaryVee’s Dream of Owning the New York Jets (26:06) The Role of DNA and Accountability in Success (28:35) Finding Joy in Entrepreneurship (31:02) How to Build a Personal Brand as an Employee (32:30) Empowering Employees with Honest Feedback (34:27) Embracing Change and Executing Relentlessly Gary Vaynerchuk, famously known as GaryVee, is a serial entrepreneur, chairman of VaynerX, CEO of VaynerMedia and VeeFriends, and a six-time New York Times bestselling author. He is a prolific angel investor with early investments in companies like Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Venmo, Snapchat, Coinbase, and Uber. Recognized as one of the most forward-thinking minds in business, culture, and the internet, Gary helps brands stay ahead by spotting trends early. Connect with Gary: Gary’s Website: garyvaynerchuk.com  Gary’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/garyvaynerchuk  Resources Mentioned: Gary’s Book, Day Trading Attention: How to Actually Build Brand and Sales in the New Social Media World: https://www.amazon.com/Day-Trading-Attention-Actually-Social/dp/0063317591  GaryVee: From Earning $2 an Hour to Running a $350M Digital Empire: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/garyvee-from-earning-%242-an-hour-to-running-a/id1701718200?i=1000689595539  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

Matt Abrahams's passion for communication was shaped by his parents during his childhood. In the corporate world, he noticed that great ideas often went unheard because people were too anxious to speak up, particularly in high-pressure situations. Realizing that fear, not a lack of ideas, was the barrier to success, Matt made it his mission to help individuals overcome anxiety and communicate with confidence. In this episode, Matt joins Ilana to share his top techniques for managing public speaking anxiety and how you can transition from rambling to speaking with clarity, confidence, and impact. Matt Abrahams is a bestselling author, communication coach, and lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He has helped individuals deliver impactful presentations, from IPO roadshows to Nobel Prize speeches, TED Talks, and World Economic Forum sessions. In this episode, Ilana and Matt will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:50) His Path to Becoming a Communication Expert (05:50) Corporate Lessons and the Transition to Teaching (09:36) Mastering Communication as a Teacher (12:54) Understanding and Managing Anxiety (18:19) Matt’s Top Anxiety Management Techniques (23:15) The Keys to His Career Growth and Success (25:11) Turning Mistakes into Business Opportunities (28:49) Navigating Social Media and Feedback (33:29) How to Stop Rambling and Speak with Confidence (36:30) How to Understand and Connect with Your Audience Matt Abrahams is a bestselling author, communication coach, and lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He is the author of Speaking Up Without Freaking Out and Think Faster, Talk Smarter, and host of the award-winning Think Fast, Talk Smart podcast. Matt has helped individuals deliver impactful presentations, from IPO roadshows to Nobel Prize speeches, TED Talks, and World Economic Forum sessions. Connect with Matt: Website: fastersmarter.io  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/maabrahams  Resources Mentioned: Matt’s Book, Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Faster-Talk-Smarter-Successfully/dp/1668010305  Matt’s Book, Speaking Up without Freaking Out: 50 Techniques for Confident and Compelling Presenting: https://www.amazon.com/Speaking-without-Freaking-Out-Techniques/dp/1465290478  Matt’s Podcast, Think Fast Talk Smart: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/think-fast-talk-smart-communication-techniques/id1494989268  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

As a teenager performing on New York’s streets and parks, Adam Met never imagined selling out arenas nationwide. Alongside his brothers Jack and Ryan, he formed the band AJR, playing for hours each summer while learning to capture the attention of indifferent passersby. A single tweet to Sia changed everything, launching their breakthrough. Balancing music with demanding academic work and nonprofit leadership, Adam mastered the art of building an engaged fan base that is driven to action. In this episode, Adam joins Ilana to share insights from his new book, Amplify, which blends his experiences in music and climate advocacy to inspire community building across various fields. Adam Met is a musician, climate advocate, educator, and member of the multiplatinum band AJR. He is the Executive Director of Planet Reimagined, a nonprofit leveraging media and strategic advocacy to mobilize climate action. In this episode, Ilana and Adam will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:51) Early Musical Influences and Street Performances (04:04) Coping with Rejection as a Child Performer (05:52) Attracting an Audience While Embracing Nerves (09:30) How One Tweet to Sia Changed AJR’s Career (13:01) Why “I’m Ready” Became a Smash Hit (16:58) Overcoming the Fear of Being a One-Hit Wonder (21:29) The Innovative Strategies Behind AJR’s Success (26:56) Two Key Tactics to Build an Engaged Fan Base (28:48) The Birth of Adam’s Debut Book, Amplify (31:28) How Adam Merges Music and Climate Advocacy (34:21) Adapting Quickly: The Drive-In Concert Pivot (39:21) Funding Climate Action Through Bipartisan Support Adam Met is a musician, climate advocate, educator, and member of the multiplatinum band AJR. He is the Executive Director of Planet Reimagined, a nonprofit using media and strategic advocacy to mobilize climate action. Adam works closely with Congress and the White House to promote renewable energy and serves as a sustainability advocate for the United Nations Development Programme. In recognition of his efforts, Adam received the 2024 TIME Earth Award and was named a New York Times Changemaker. Connect with Adam: Adam’s Website: adammet.net  Adam’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adam-met-38274379  Resources Mentioned: Adam’s Book, Amplify: How to Use the Power of Connection to Engage, Take Action, and Build a Better World: https://www.amazon.com/Amplify-Connection-Engage-Action-Better/dp/0593735900  Planet Reimagined: planetreimagined.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

Kass and Mike Lazerow’s entrepreneurial journey began with a leap of faith and a lot of grit. They started Golf.com with funding from friends and family, only to be acquired by a company that later went bankrupt. Forced to raise capital and revive their business against all odds, they quickly learned that entrepreneurship means facing setbacks every day and building the resilience to keep going when it feels impossible. In this episode, Kass and Mike join Ilana to dive into their new book, Shoveling $h!t, sharing the struggles behind their wins, the fears they confronted, and how they built successful businesses while balancing parenthood, marriage, and health challenges. Kass and Mike Lazerow are serial entrepreneurs, investors, and co-founders of Golf.com and Buddy Media. After selling Golf.com to Time Warner, they co-founded Buddy Media, a leading social media marketing platform that was acquired by Salesforce for $745 million. In this episode, Ilana, Kass, and Mike will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (00:35) Meeting and Collaborating with GaryVee (03:20) Childhood Challenges and Family Struggles (09:43) Early Ventures and the Birth of Golf.com (13:40) Kass and Mike’s Relationship Journey (18:20) Facing Near Bankruptcy After Acquisition Offers (23:02) Leading with Transparency in Crisis (26:08) Fundraising Success and Tiger Woods's Influence (28:44) Navigating Parenthood While Building a Business (35:33) Prioritizing Health Amid Career Demands (39:38) Breaking Gender Bias in Entrepreneurship (43:57) Building a Thick Skin as an Entrepreneur (47:31) Overcoming Fear and Taking Action Kass and Mike Lazerow are serial entrepreneurs, investors, and co-founders of Golf.com and Buddy Media. After selling Golf.com to Time Warner, they co-founded Buddy Media, a leading social media marketing platform that was acquired by Salesforce for $745 million. Together, Mike and Kass have supported nearly 100 early-stage startup founders and have received multiple awards recognizing their leadership and impact in entrepreneurship and philanthropy. Connect with Kass and Mike: Kass and Mike’s Website: www.kassandmike.com  Kass and Mike’s Email: info@kassandmike.com    Resources Mentioned: Kass and Mike Book, Shoveling $H!t: A Love Story about the Entrepreneur's Messy Path to Success: https://www.amazon.in/Shoveling-Story-about-Entrepreneurs-Success/dp/B0DY21NS7W  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

Bonnie Hammer’s passion for photography and storytelling led her to an internship on a TV production set, but instead of a glamorous role, her first job involved cleaning up dog poop. Despite these humble beginnings, Bonnie’s curiosity, strong work ethic, and willingness to tackle any task helped her rise through the ranks at NBC Universal, eventually becoming vice chairman and a powerhouse in the cable industry In this episode, Bonnie shares how her ability to learn, embrace opportunities, and adapt to change shaped her success, and how tough mentors and tough love played crucial roles in her career growth. Bonnie Hammer is an author, businesswoman, and media executive. She served as vice chair of NBCUniversal, where she spent decades transforming the television industry. Under her leadership, the company’s cable group and studios achieved record profits, garnered 167 Emmy nominations, and launched hundreds of hit series, including Suits.  In this episode, Ilana and Bonnie will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:58) From Photography Passion to TV Career Launch (10:11) Embracing Career Growth Opportunities (16:46) The Impact of Mentorship on Her Career (22:06) Tough Love as a Driver for Success (29:44) Bonnie’s Key to Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (31:52) How to Thrive During Organizational Changes (34:29) Transforming Career Setbacks into Opportunities (40:16) How to Communicate Your Professional Value (43:16) The Power of Hunger and Resilience (46:34) Turning Small Opportunities into Big Breaks (51:05) Redefining Success on Your Own Terms Bonnie Hammer is an author, businesswoman, and media executive. She served as vice chair of NBCUniversal, where she spent decades transforming the television industry. Under her leadership, the company’s cable group and studios achieved record profits, garnered 167 Emmy nominations, and launched hundreds of hit series, including Suits. Bonnie was named “the Queen of Cable” by The New York Times and hailed as “the most powerful woman in entertainment” by The Hollywood Reporter. Resources Mentioned: Bonnie’s Book, 15 Lies Women Are Told at Work: …And the Truth We Need to Succeed: https://www.amazon.com/Lies-Women-Are-Told-Work/dp/1668027615  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

In 2016, former Fox News host Gretchen Carlson made a bold move that transformed the conversation around workplace harassment. After enduring years of mistreatment, she filed a lawsuit against Fox News Chairman Roger Ailes for sexual harassment. Despite the immense personal and professional risks, this courageous act helped spark the #MeToo movement, giving a voice to countless women who had suffered in silence. Now, through her nonprofit, Gretchen is working to dismantle the silencing mechanisms that allow harassment to thrive in the workplace. In this episode, Gretchen joins Ilana to share how her painful experiences fueled her mission to create safer, more inclusive environments for all. Gretchen Carlson is a journalist, author, and women’s rights advocate. As the co-founder of Lift Our Voices, a nonprofit combating forced arbitration and toxic workplace environments, her advocacy has led to significant legislative changes. In this episode, Ilana and Gretchen will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (02:15) The Decision to File a Sexual Harassment Lawsuit (04:42) Why Most Victims Struggle to Speak Out (11:40) The Role of a Support System in Tough Times (15:19) Learning to Advocate for Herself as a Child (17:57) From Violin Prodigy to Miss America (23:37) Building a Thick Skin as Miss America (26:47) Facing Sexual Assault Early in Her Career (30:00) How to Foster Safe and Inclusive Workplaces (37:11) Balancing Ambition, Family, and Career in TV (42:19) Creating Change Through Reforms and Advocacy (48:24) Overcoming Rejection in Nonprofits Gretchen Carlson is a journalist, author, and women’s rights advocate. As the co-founder of Lift Our Voices, a nonprofit combating forced arbitration and toxic workplace environments, her advocacy has led to significant legislative changes, including the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act. The bestselling author of Getting Real and Be Fierce, Gretchen was named one of Time magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2017. Connect with Gretchen: Gretchen’s Website: gretchencarlson.com  Gretchen’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gretchen-carlson  Resources Mentioned: Gretchen’s Book, Getting Real:  https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Real-Gretchen-Carlson/dp/0143109243  Gretchen’s Book, Be Fierce: Stop Harassment and Take Your Power Back: https://www.amazon.com/Be-Fierce-Stop-Harassment-Power/dp/1478992174  Lift Our Voices: liftourvoices.org  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

Tim O'Reilly’s entrepreneurial journey began with odd jobs like being a janitor, cemetery caretaker, and dishwasher. With just $500, he founded O'Reilly Media, initially focusing on publishing tech manuals. After a major setback during the dot-com bust, which saw revenue drop by $20 million, Tim continued building his business and creating a huge impact in the tech world. His work with Web 2.0 and open-source technologies like Linux and Perl helped position O'Reilly Media as a key player in the internet’s evolution. In this episode, Tim shares how he built O'Reilly Media from the ground up, navigated industry shifts, and why focusing on value is essential for long-term business success. Tim O'Reilly is an entrepreneur, author, and the founder of O'Reilly Media, a leading tech publishing company known for its groundbreaking books, conferences, and online learning platforms. In this episode, Ilana and Tim will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (02:29) Growing Up with Poor Vision and a Love for Books (03:53) Building O'Reilly Media with Just $500 (07:07) Leadership Lessons from the Dot-Com Crash (11:32) How Web 2.0 and Open Source Transformed the Web (19:27) The Problem with Silicon Valley’s Business Model (26:15) Scaling a Business with Limited Resources (31:11) AI and the Future of Programming (35:11) Tim’s Key Lessons in Entrepreneurship (37:47) Why Every Business Should Prioritize Value Tim O'Reilly is an entrepreneur, author, and the founder of O'Reilly Media, a leading tech publishing company known for its groundbreaking books, conferences, and online learning platforms. A key figure in the evolution of the internet, Tim played a major role in popularizing tech concepts such as open-source software and Web 2.0. He has been a strong advocate for ethical technology and continues to explore the future of AI, programming, and innovation. Connect with Tim: Tim’s Website: oreilly.com  Tim’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/timo3  Resources Mentioned: The Whole Internet User's Guide & Catalog by Ed Krol: https://www.amazon.com/Whole-Internet-Users-Guide-Catalog/dp/1565920635  Sailing Alone Around the World by Joshua Slocum: https://www.amazon.com/Sailing-Alone-Around-Joshua-Slocum/dp/0486203263  Dune Mass Market by Frank Herbert: https://www.amazon.com/Dune-Frank-Herbert/dp/0441172717  The Golden Warrior, the Story of Harold and William, a Novel of the Norman Conquest by Hope Muntz: https://www.amazon.com/Golden-Warrior-Harold-William-Conquest/dp/B001DA6IKC  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

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: 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

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: 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