Jeff Harmer is a true walking legend — someone who’s lived life to the fullest. Adventure and entrepreneurship have been the two driving forces throughout his journey. Early on, Jeff took on the ambitious 7 Summit Challenge, aiming to climb the tallest mountain on each of the seven continents.
Inspired by The Art of the Deal in his youth, Jeff dreamed of building skyscrapers. From delivering newspapers to launching multiple startups in his early twenties — including a furniture store and an excavation company — he quickly learned that working in dirt wasn’t getting him close enough to his dream.
Determined to level up, Jeff earned a spot at UPenn’s Wharton School of Business. That opened the door to a commercial real estate firm, where he played a key role in developing million- and billion-dollar skyscrapers in Seattle — living out his childhood vision.
More recently, Jeff extended a sabbatical during COVID that turned into an early retirement. He chose to forgo his highest-earning years to focus on his health, wealth, and able-bodiedness—sailing & now switching to the Seven Seas challenge alongside his equally remarkable wife. Jeff knows no amount of money can ever buy back that time while he’s healthy and able.
I could’ve talked to Jeff forever. Welcome to Episode 14!
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Intro / Outro Music Credit:
@julien_buss on Instagram
Reflections:
"…If you have faith as a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible for you.” - Matthew 17:20
Post Note:
I’m inspired by the stories people carry, honest feedback, and the magic when creative minds connect. If you’re a brand interested in partnering, reach out: www.linkedin.com/in/ethanlewin.
Thanks for being part of the journey! PEACE!