Nathan Weingarten has always been interested in understanding how things work. Growing up in New Jersey, he was drawn to systems, patterns, and problem solving from an early age. Instead of looking for quick answers, he enjoyed breaking complex ideas into smaller pieces and figuring out how they fit together.

Those early interests stayed with him as he spent his formative years in New York City. The fast pace of the city challenged him to think clearly and stay focused. Over time, he developed a disciplined approach to learning that continues to guide both his work and his daily life.

Today, Nathan works in software development, where he focuses on building reliable systems that are simple, maintainable, and designed to last. He believes good engineering is rarely about adding more complexity. Instead, it comes from creating strong foundations that make future growth easier. His work is guided by consistency, careful planning, and a commitment to long-term thinking rather than short-term results.
Outside of software development, Nathan values routines that help him stay balanced. He enjoys staying active through tennis, cycling, swimming, and padel. Physical activity gives him time to reset and often leads to fresh ideas when he returns to technical work. He also enjoys reading and continuous learning, believing that steady improvement comes from remaining curious throughout life.

Nathan also supports charitable initiatives in both the United States and Israel, seeing community involvement as another way to build something meaningful over time.

Whether he is solving technical challenges, learning a new skill, or improving his daily habits, Nathan approaches every opportunity with the same philosophy: focus on the fundamentals, stay consistent, and trust that small improvements made every day lead to meaningful results over time.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

My day usually starts before I open my computer. I like to begin with some form of physical activity, whether that’s tennis, cycling, swimming, or padel. It helps me clear my head and puts me in the right frame of mind for technical work. Once I start working, I focus on one problem at a time instead of jumping between tasks. Software development rewards concentration, so I try to protect that. I also leave time to read technical material because learning is part of the job, not something separate from it.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I start by simplifying the problem. It’s easy to get excited about an idea, but if you don’t understand the fundamentals, it’s difficult to build something that lasts. I usually sketch out the structure first, identify what really needs to happen, and remove anything unnecessary. Once the foundation makes sense, the implementation becomes much easier. I don’t believe in adding complexity just because it’s possible.

What’s one trend that excites you?

Artificial intelligence is changing software development in interesting ways. I think it has the potential to make developers more productive by automating repetitive tasks and enabling them to explore different solutions. At the same time, I don’t think it replaces thoughtful engineering. Strong architecture, good judgment, and understanding why systems work will always matter. AI is a powerful tool, but it’s still a tool.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Consistency. I don’t wait until I feel inspired to do good work. Small, disciplined habits repeated every day produce much better results than occasional bursts of motivation. That applies to writing software, learning new technologies, and even staying physically active.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t confuse speed with progress. Early in my life, I thought solving problems quickly was always the goal. Over time, I realized that taking a little more time to understand the problem often saves much more time later. The strongest solutions usually come from patience, not urgency.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

I think software developers spend too much time chasing new tools. Every year, there’s another framework or library that everyone feels they need to learn immediately. I think mastering the fundamentals is much more valuable. Technologies change, but good engineering principles stay remarkably consistent.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Read consistently. It doesn’t have to be hours every day, but reading technical books, articles, or research helps expand the way you think. I try to learn something new every week, even if it’s a small concept that improves how I approach future problems.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I step away from the computer. Going for a bike ride, playing tennis, or swimming helps me reset mentally. I’ve solved more programming problems after taking a break than by staring at the same screen for another two hours. Distance often creates clarity.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

I’ve always tried to build systems that other people can easily understand. Writing code isn’t just about making something work today. Someone will probably maintain it months or years later. Thinking about maintainability has helped me become a better developer because it forces me to simplify my own thinking before I write a solution.

What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

Early on, I underestimated the importance of planning before implementation. I once spent considerable time building a solution that technically worked but became difficult to expand because I hadn’t thought far enough ahead about how the system might grow. Reworking that project taught me that investing extra time in architecture is almost always worthwhile. Since then, I’ve spent more time understanding requirements before writing code, and it’s improved both the quality of my work and the efficiency of future development.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

I think there’s room for software that automatically reviews existing codebases and explains technical debt in plain language for both developers and business leaders. Many companies know they have aging systems, but they struggle to understand where the biggest risks are. A tool that translates technical issues into practical business decisions would create significant value.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Visual Studio Code is the tool I probably use the most. Beyond writing code, I rely on its extensions, search capabilities, and debugging tools to stay organized and work efficiently. A good development environment removes distractions and lets me focus on solving problems.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

One book I’ve returned to more than once is The Pragmatic Programmer. It isn’t about a single programming language or technology. It’s about developing good habits and making thoughtful decisions throughout your career. Even years after its publication, many of its lessons still apply because they’re based on principles rather than trends.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I recently watched The Martian. What I enjoy about it isn’t just the story. It’s the way every challenge is approached with careful problem-solving rather than panic. The main character keeps making small, logical decisions that eventually solve much larger problems. That mindset feels very familiar in engineering.

Key learnings

• Long-term thinking and strong fundamentals create software that remains valuable long after it is first built.
• Consistent daily habits, including learning and physical activity, support better decision-making and sustained performance.
• Simplicity is often the result of careful planning, not less effort.
• New technologies are most valuable when they strengthen sound engineering practices rather than replace them.
• Taking the time to fully understand a problem often yields faster, more reliable results in the long run.

Sean Powers has built a career by staying open to opportunity and learning from every experience along the way. Raised near Chicago, he did not follow a traditional career path. Instead, he gained experience across pipeline operations, manufacturing, international sourcing, and sales, developing a broad understanding of how businesses operate and how strong relationships help drive long-term success.
Early in his career, Sean focused on solving practical problems and delivering results. As his responsibilities grew, so did his perspective. Working in different industries taught him that every business faces unique challenges, but the foundations of success remain the same. Clear communication, trust, adaptability, and consistent execution matter regardless of the field.
Throughout his career, Sean has developed a reputation for asking thoughtful questions, building lasting partnerships, and looking beyond short-term solutions. His experience has shown him that successful businesses are built through collaboration, strong processes, and a willingness to keep learning. Rather than chasing trends, he believes in understanding the bigger picture and making decisions that create long-term value.
Today, Sean continues to draw on the lessons he has learned across operations, manufacturing, sourcing, and business development. He enjoys sharing practical insights on leadership, supply chains, operational thinking, and professional growth. His writing reflects the perspective of someone who has spent years working through real-world business challenges and understands that experience is gained one decision at a time.
Sean’s journey demonstrates that a successful career is not always defined by following a straight path, but by embracing new opportunities, remaining curious, and continuing to grow with every challenge.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

No two days are exactly alike, which is something I’ve come to appreciate. My work has taken me through operations, manufacturing, international sourcing, and sales, so I’ve learned to stay flexible. I usually start by identifying the priorities that will have the biggest impact rather than simply working through the longest to-do list. I’ve found that if I focus on solving the most important problems early in the day, everything else tends to move more smoothly. I also make a point of staying connected with people because many challenges are solved through conversations rather than emails.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I’ve learned that good ideas don’t become valuable until they’re put into action. Whenever I have an idea, I try to break it down into practical steps rather than focusing on the finished result. I ask what resources are needed, who should be involved, and what obstacles might come up. My experience in operations taught me that execution is what determines whether an idea succeeds, so I always focus on creating a realistic path from concept to implementation.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I’m interested in how technology is improving visibility across supply chains and business operations. Companies have access to more information than ever before, but I think the real opportunity lies in using that information to make smarter decisions rather than simply collecting more data. Better visibility allows businesses to anticipate problems earlier and strengthen relationships across the supply chain.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

I ask a lot of questions before making decisions. It slows me down just enough to make sure I’m solving the right problem. Early in my career, I thought productivity meant making fast decisions. Now I believe it means making thoughtful ones.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell myself not to worry so much about following a perfectly planned career path. Some of the best opportunities I’ve had came from industries I never expected to work in. Every role taught me something useful, even if I didn’t recognize it at the time. Staying curious turned out to be far more valuable than trying to predict exactly where my career would go.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

I think businesses spend too much time searching for the next trend and not enough time improving the processes they already have. New technology and new strategies certainly have their place, but I’ve seen organizations make tremendous progress simply by improving communication, clarifying responsibilities, and fixing small operational problems that everyone had accepted as normal.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Listen before offering a solution. I’ve found that people closest to the work usually have insights that don’t appear in reports or dashboards. Taking the time to understand their perspective almost always leads to better decisions.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I step back and simplify the situation. Instead of trying to solve five problems at once, I identify the one issue that is creating the biggest bottleneck. Once that starts moving, everything else usually becomes easier to manage. I’ve learned that feeling overwhelmed often comes from trying to juggle too many priorities at once.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

Working across multiple industries has probably had the biggest impact on my career. Every role gave me a different perspective on how businesses operate. Manufacturing taught me discipline, sourcing taught me the value of relationships, operations taught me systems thinking, and sales taught me how every decision ultimately affects the customer. That broader perspective has helped me connect ideas that I probably wouldn’t have seen if I had stayed in one industry.

What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

Early in my career, I sometimes focused too heavily on solving immediate problems without considering the long-term effects. I remember situations where a quick solution addressed the issue in front of us but created extra work later for another department. Those experiences taught me to think more broadly before making decisions. Now I spend more time asking who else will be affected and whether a solution will still make sense six months from now.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Spend a week documenting every unnecessary handoff, delay, or communication breakdown in your business. Don’t focus on major strategic initiatives. Just identify the small frustrations that happen every day. Improving those recurring issues will often have a greater impact than introducing an entirely new system.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Microsoft Excel remains one of the most practical tools I use. It’s simple, flexible, and allows me to organize information, compare options, track projects, and evaluate data without overcomplicating the process. Sometimes the most effective tools are the ones people already have.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

One book that has stayed with me is Good to Great by Jim Collins. I appreciate that it focuses on disciplined execution rather than shortcuts. It reinforces many of the lessons I’ve learned throughout my own career about consistency, leadership, and building strong organizations over time.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I recently rewatched Ford v Ferrari. Beyond being an entertaining film, it’s really a story about teamwork, engineering, problem-solving, and balancing innovation with execution. It shows that great results usually come from talented people working together toward a shared objective, and that’s something I’ve seen throughout my own career.

Key learnings

• Strong business decisions begin with asking thoughtful questions rather than rushing to quick answers.
• Experience across multiple industries provides a broader perspective that leads to better problem-solving.
• Long-term business success often comes from improving everyday processes instead of constantly chasing new trends.
• Building trust and maintaining strong relationships create lasting value across operations, sourcing, and business development.
• Sustainable growth comes from disciplined execution, continuous learning, and understanding how every decision affects the bigger picture.

Ben Walderman is a Palm Springs, California entrepreneur, business consultant, and community advocate who has spent more than 15 years helping businesses grow through practical ideas and strong relationships. Originally from Arizona, Ben developed an appreciation for hard work and entrepreneurship at a young age. In his early twenties, he moved to California after being drawn to the energy, architecture, and culture of Palm Springs. What began as a fresh start soon became the foundation of his career.

As he became part of the local business community, Ben found his passion in helping property owners, hospitality groups, and entrepreneurs improve how they operate. His work spans real estate development, boutique hospitality, vacation rentals, and small business strategy. Rather than chasing trends, he focuses on creating lasting value by improving customer experiences, strengthening brands, and helping businesses adapt to changing markets.

Ben has also become a familiar face at local business events, charity fundraisers, and community discussions throughout the Coachella Valley. He believes successful communities are built when people collaborate, share ideas, and invest in one another. His approachable leadership style and ability to connect people have earned him respect across industries.

Outside of work, Ben enjoys hiking desert trails, exploring Palm Springs’ famous mid-century modern architecture, and supporting local restaurants and art galleries. He also embraces wellness and believes the desert lifestyle offers a unique balance between productivity, creativity, and personal well-being.

Today, Ben continues to focus on business consulting, community partnerships, and thoughtful development opportunities that contribute to the long-term future of Palm Springs. His career reflects a simple philosophy: meaningful growth comes from understanding people, respecting place, and always looking ahead.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

My mornings usually start with a walk or hike before it gets too hot. Living in Palm Springs reminds me why I chose to build my life here. After that, I review my priorities for the day and focus on the work that requires the most attention before checking emails. Most of my day involves meeting with property owners, business operators, or entrepreneurs. I also spend time visiting local businesses because you learn a lot by seeing how people actually experience a place. I try to end each day by asking myself one question: “Did I solve problems today or just stay busy?

How do you bring ideas to life?

I like to start with observation. I spend time understanding how people move through a business or a property before suggesting changes. Sometimes the best ideas come from simply watching where customers hesitate or where staff members have to work around inefficient systems. Once I understand the problem, I build a simple plan and improve it one step at a time instead of trying to change everything overnight.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I’m excited by the shift toward experience-driven hospitality. People don’t just want a nice room anymore. They want a memorable stay that reflects the local culture. Palm Springs has a unique identity, and businesses that embrace that instead of copying somewhere else have a real opportunity.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

I write everything down. Whether it’s an idea during a meeting or something I notice walking through a property, I keep notes. Small observations often become the solution to much bigger challenges later.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t rush the process. When I first moved from Arizona to Palm Springs, I felt like I had to prove myself quickly. Looking back, relationships mattered much more than speed. Building trust takes time, and that’s something you can’t shortcut.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

I think businesses spend too much money trying to look different when they should spend more time making customers feel understood. Great experiences create stronger brands than expensive marketing campaigns.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Talk to local people. Whether you’re opening a business or visiting a city, you’ll learn more from conversations than from online research. Some of the best opportunities in my career started with a simple conversation at a local event.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I get outside. Hiking desert trails clears my head better than sitting at a desk trying to force an answer. The change of environment usually helps me come back with a fresh perspective.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

I’ve focused on becoming someone who solves practical problems instead of trying to be the loudest person in the room. Clients remember the person who makes their business run better. That approach has led to long-term relationships and referrals, especially in hospitality and real estate.

What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

Early on, I spent too much time trying to create the perfect plan before taking action on a consulting project. By the time everything looked perfect on paper, the client’s priorities had already changed. I learned that progress is more valuable than perfection. Now I build flexible plans that can adapt as markets change.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

I think every city could benefit from a membership-based local experience program that partners with independent restaurants, galleries, fitness studios, and small hotels. Instead of discounts, members would receive exclusive experiences that encourage them to explore businesses they may never have visited otherwise. It helps both residents and local businesses build stronger connections.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Google Keep is something I use constantly. It’s simple, but that’s why it works. I can quickly capture ideas, organize checklists, and access notes whether I’m walking through a property or sitting in a meeting.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

One book I’ve returned to several times is The Experience Economy by B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore. It changed the way I think about hospitality. It reinforced the idea that people remember how a place makes them feel long after they forget the details.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I recently enjoyed Abstract: The Art of Design. It highlights how thoughtful design shapes the way people experience products, buildings, and environments. Since Palm Springs is known for architecture and design, I found it both interesting and relevant to my work.

Key learnings

• Strong businesses are built by solving real customer problems instead of chasing trends.
• The best ideas often come from observing how people interact with places and services.
• Long-term relationships create more opportunities than short-term wins.

Crystal Lundberg grew up in Rockford, Illinois, where her childhood was shaped by adversity, instability, and years spent in and out of foster care. Despite those challenges, one experience changed the direction of her life. As a young girl, she was welcomed into the home of a family who showed her unconditional love, stability, and the importance of strong values. Their kindness gave her a vision of the future she wanted to build for herself.
Instead of allowing difficult circumstances to define her, Crystal focused on education, personal growth, and creating opportunities through hard work. She earned her Associate’s Degree in Business Management Administration in 2025 and completed esthetics education through Aveda. Today, she is continuing her education toward a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management with a concentration in Marketing and Digital Marketing while also earning credits toward her master’s degree.
Crystal now works as an Office Manager and Marketing Coordinator, helping businesses strengthen their operations, branding, marketing, and organizational systems. She enjoys combining creativity with business strategy to help ideas become practical results.
Outside of work, Crystal enjoys art, interior design, music, golf, and creative projects. A self-taught pianist, she believes creativity and discipline often go hand in hand.
Her journey continues to be guided by resilience, curiosity, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Whether she is improving a business process, learning a new skill, or encouraging someone facing challenges of their own, Crystal believes growth happens one step at a time. Her story reflects the power of perseverance, education, and choosing to build a better future regardless of where life begins.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

Most mornings start with making a list of priorities before I check emails. That helps me stay focused instead of reacting to everything that comes my way. My work involves office management, marketing, organization, and business development, so every day looks a little different. I try to end each day by reviewing what I accomplished and preparing for tomorrow. That small habit saves me time and keeps me organized.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I start by writing everything down. Big ideas can feel overwhelming until you break them into smaller steps. Once I have a clear plan, I focus on completing one task at a time. I believe consistency matters more than perfection.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I’m excited to see businesses becoming more authentic. People want real stories, genuine relationships, and brands that reflect their values instead of trying to be everything to everyone.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Planning tomorrow before today ends. It removes guesswork and lets me begin each morning with purpose.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell myself that my circumstances do not define my future. The difficult seasons will not last forever, and the things that feel impossible today will eventually become part of my strength.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

I think people spend too much time searching for motivation. I believe discipline is much more reliable. Motivation comes and goes, but habits keep moving you forward.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Keep learning. Whether it’s reading, taking a class, asking questions, or trying something new, growth never really stops.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I simplify everything. I’ll write down the next three things that need to happen and ignore everything else until those are finished. I also play piano for a few minutes or go for a walk to clear my mind.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

I’ve learned to become someone people can depend on. Showing up prepared, communicating clearly, and following through on commitments has opened more doors than trying to impress people with big promises.

What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

Early in my career I sometimes took on too many responsibilities because I wanted to prove myself. Eventually I realized that being effective isn’t about saying yes to everything. It’s about prioritizing the work that creates the greatest impact while still maintaining quality.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

Create a simple “business organization audit” for small businesses. Many owners know they need better systems but don’t know where to start. A checklist covering branding, file organization, customer communication, website updates, and workflow could immediately create value while building long-term relationships.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Microsoft OneNote has become one of my favorite tools. I use it to organize meeting notes, project ideas, checklists, and long-term goals so everything stays in one place.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

Atomic Habits by James Clear has had a lasting impact on me. It reinforced something I already believed—that small, consistent actions create meaningful change over time.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I recently enjoyed The Pursuit of Happyness. The story reminds me that perseverance, hope, and determination can carry someone through incredibly difficult seasons, and that message has always resonated with me.

Key learnings

• Small, consistent actions often create bigger long-term results than short bursts of motivation.
• Strong organization and dependable follow-through can become powerful career advantages.
• Difficult beginnings do not determine future success when paired with education and perseverance.
• Breaking large goals into manageable steps makes personal and professional growth more achievable.
• Authentic relationships, continuous learning, and resilience remain valuable in every stage of a career.

Victor Daniel Silva is a commercial fisherman whose life has been shaped by the water, hard work, and a deep respect for tradition. Based along the Louisiana Gulf Coast, Victor has built a career in shrimping and crabbing by staying true to the lessons he learned as a young boy growing up in Beaufort, North Carolina.
From an early age, Victor could be found on the water with his father, Daniel Silva Sr., who introduced him to commercial fishing. Those early mornings taught him more than how to read tides or mend nets. They taught him patience, preparation, and the importance of doing every job right. After graduating from Beaufort High School, Victor chose to continue the family tradition, working alongside his father before eventually carrying on the legacy after his father’s passing.

In his late 20s, Victor relocated to Louisiana to pursue new opportunities on the Gulf Coast. Learning in unfamiliar waters challenged him, but he embraced the experience and gradually earned a reputation as a dependable and knowledgeable fisherman. Today, he is known not only for his work ethic but also for his thoughtful approach to commercial fishing and his commitment to supporting coastal communities.
Away from the boat, Victor enjoys a quieter pace of life with his wife, Marisol, whose passion for cooking transforms each day’s catch into memorable family meals. Together they celebrate the simple pleasures of coastal living, proving that success is often built through consistency, humility, and an appreciation for the work that happens long before anyone sees the final result.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

Most of my days begin before sunrise. I start with a cup of coffee, check the weather, review the tide charts, and inspect my boat before I leave the dock. That routine has become one of the most important parts of my day because it helps me avoid problems before they happen. Once I’m on the water, I stay focused on the conditions around me because no two days are exactly alike. After I return, there is still plenty of work to do. I clean equipment, repair nets, inspect the engine, and prepare everything for the next trip. Staying productive isn’t about working faster. It’s about staying consistent and taking care of the small details every day.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I don’t usually chase big ideas. Most of the improvements I’ve made have started with noticing something that could work a little better. Sometimes it’s a better way to organize equipment. Other times it’s adjusting my routine because the weather or tides have changed. I like testing small changes before making them permanent. If something makes the work safer, more efficient, or more reliable, then I keep doing it. If it doesn’t, I move on and try something else.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I like seeing more people take an interest in where their food comes from. More customers are asking questions about local seafood and the people who harvest it. I think that’s a positive change because it helps people understand the work behind every catch and encourages them to support local fishing communities.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Preparation has probably made the biggest difference in my career. I never skip checking my equipment before a trip because I’ve learned that small problems become much bigger ones once you’re offshore. My father taught me that lesson years ago, and I’ve carried it with me ever since.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell myself not to be in such a hurry to prove what I know. When I moved from North Carolina to Louisiana, I thought my experience would automatically translate to the Gulf Coast. It didn’t. I had to learn new waters, different weather patterns, and a new fishing community. Looking back, I wish I had worried less about proving myself and spent more time asking questions.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

I think people underestimate the value of slowing down. Whether I’m checking equipment or making decisions on the water, taking an extra few minutes usually saves hours of frustration later. I don’t believe faster is always better. I believe careful is usually better.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Pay attention to the small things. Most major problems begin as minor ones. Whether it’s an unusual sound from an engine or a small change in the weather, noticing those details early gives you the chance to solve problems before they grow.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I stop worrying about everything that still needs to be done and focus on the next task in front of me. If I’m repairing equipment, I work on one repair at a time. If I’m preparing the boat, I go through my checklist from beginning to end. Breaking large jobs into smaller steps helps me stay calm and keeps me moving forward.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

Consistency has been the biggest factor. People remember whether you show up, whether you keep your word, and whether they can rely on you. You don’t build that reputation through one good season. You build it over many years by doing the work properly every single day.

What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

One of the biggest lessons came after I moved to Louisiana. I assumed that because I had grown up fishing in North Carolina, I already knew what I was doing. The Gulf Coast quickly reminded me that every body of water is different. I spent too much time relying on what had worked back home instead of learning from local fishermen. Once I started listening more and assuming less, I became a much better fisherman. That experience taught me that experience is valuable, but humility is just as important.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

I think more coastal communities could benefit from hosting seafood education days where local fishermen invite families to the docks to learn how seafood is harvested and prepared. It would help people better understand the work behind local seafood while strengthening connections between fishermen and the communities they serve.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

I rely on marine weather and navigation apps every day because they provide updated forecasts, radar, tide information, and navigation tools. They’re incredibly useful for planning trips, but I never rely on technology alone. I still believe there’s no substitute for paying attention to the water itself.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

One book I’ve really enjoyed is The Comfort Crisis by Michael Easter. It made me think differently about how much we can benefit from doing difficult things instead of always choosing the easiest option. Working on the water has taught me that growth usually comes from challenges, not comfort. The book reinforced many of the lessons I’ve learned throughout my career about resilience, practical skills, and spending time outdoors.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I recently enjoyed Somebody Feed Phil. I like how the show uses food to tell stories about people and their communities. Since I spend my days helping bring seafood from the Gulf to people’s tables, it’s interesting to see what happens after that. The show reminds me that every meal has a story behind it, whether it comes from a family recipe, a local restaurant, or the work of fishermen who were out on the water before sunrise. It makes the connection between food and community feel personal, and I think that’s something worth appreciating.

Key learnings

• Long-term success comes from consistent preparation and paying attention to small details before they become bigger problems.
• Staying curious and learning from others often leads to better decisions than relying on past experience alone.
• Building trust through reliability creates stronger relationships than chasing short-term success.
• Adapting to changing conditions is one of the most valuable skills in any profession.
• Understanding where food comes from helps strengthen the connection between local communities and the people who produce it.

Dr. Emil Kohan is a board-certified plastic surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California, whose career has been shaped by a unique blend of science, artistry, and lifelong curiosity. Raised in Los Angeles, he developed an early interest in art, design, and entrepreneurship while also excelling in science. Rather than choosing one passion over another, he found a profession that allowed him to combine all of them.
He graduated summa cum laude from UCLA with dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Neuroscience and Psychobiology before earning his medical degree from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, where he received a prestigious four-year Dean’s Scholarship. He completed his Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery residency at the University of California, Irvine, building the technical foundation for a career dedicated to aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.
Today, Dr. Kohan specializes in body contouring, mommy makeover procedures, breast surgery, liposuction, Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedures, and complex revision cases. His approach emphasizes natural-looking results that respect each patient’s unique features rather than following temporary trends.
Beyond caring for patients, Dr. Kohan remains committed to advancing his profession. He has authored peer-reviewed publications, contributed to textbook chapters, and lectures on advanced surgical techniques. In 2024, he presented on BBL surgical technique at the California Society of Plastic Surgeons meeting.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Kohan enjoys basketball, tennis, fitness, art, design, and entrepreneurship. These interests continue to influence the discipline, creativity, and attention to detail that define both his work and his outlook on life.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

Every day starts early. Before I check emails or messages, I like to spend a little time exercising or reviewing my schedule. That helps me begin the day with a clear mind.
Once I’m at the office, my focus shifts entirely to my patients. Some days involve surgery from morning into the afternoon. Other days are filled with consultations, follow-up appointments, or treatment planning. I enjoy both because they require different kinds of thinking.
I stay productive by preparing thoroughly. Every patient is different, so I review their history, anatomy, goals, and treatment plan before walking into the room. That preparation allows me to focus on the conversation instead of searching for information.
I also try to leave time every week for reading research papers or reviewing surgical videos. Medicine changes constantly, so learning has to remain part of the daily routine.

How do you bring ideas to life?

For me, ideas only become valuable once they’re tested.
Whether it’s a surgical technique or a workflow improvement, I start by studying it carefully. I read the research, talk with colleagues, and think about how it applies to real patients.
I’ve always believed science and creativity should work together. Surgery requires precision, but it also requires an artistic eye. The best ideas usually come from combining those perspectives rather than choosing one over the other.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I’m excited by the continued shift toward natural-looking results.
Patients today are asking for balance rather than dramatic change. They’re looking for results that fit their own anatomy and lifestyle.
I think that’s a healthy direction because it encourages thoughtful planning instead of chasing trends.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Preparation.
The more prepared I am before surgery or a consultation, the more present I can be with each patient.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t rush your development.
It’s easy to compare yourself to people who seem further ahead, but every stage of training teaches something valuable. Focus on mastering today’s responsibilities instead of worrying about tomorrow’s achievements.

Tell us something you believe almost nobody agrees with you on?

I think limitations can actually improve creativity.
When everything is possible, it’s easy to lose focus. Working within realistic boundaries often leads to better decisions and more refined outcomes.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Stay curious.
Read outside your field. Learn from people with different backgrounds. Some of my best ideas have come from art, athletics, or design rather than medicine.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I step away for a short walk or a workout.
Physical activity helps clear my mind and usually gives me a fresh perspective when I return.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

I’ve focused on continuous improvement instead of quick growth.
Every publication, lecture, research project, and patient interaction became an opportunity to learn. Over time, those small improvements added up and helped build trust with both patients and colleagues.

What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

Early in my training, I sometimes believed working harder always meant working longer.
Eventually I realized that fatigue can reduce performance. Better planning, better communication, and proper recovery make you a better surgeon than simply adding more hours.
That lesson changed how I approach both work and life.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

I would love to see a free online library that explains cosmetic procedures using simple language, illustrations, and evidence-based information instead of marketing language.
Helping people become better informed benefits everyone.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Notion has become one of my favorite organizational tools.
I use it to organize research notes, lecture ideas, reading lists, and projects so information stays easy to find.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

One book I’ve returned to several times is The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande.
It reinforces something that’s important in surgery: preparation matters. Small, consistent systems help reduce mistakes and improve outcomes.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I recently watched The Playbook documentary series.
I enjoyed hearing successful coaches explain how discipline, preparation, and leadership translate into long-term success. Those lessons apply just as much in medicine as they do in sports.

Key learnings

• Combining science with creativity often leads to stronger long-term results than relying on either one alone.
• Continuous learning and careful preparation build trust and improve performance over time.
• Small daily improvements can create meaningful career growth without chasing shortcuts.
• Looking beyond your own industry can spark new ideas and better problem-solving.
• Long-term thinking and individualized decision-making often produce better outcomes than following trends.

Marco Lanuto is an experienced marketing strategy professional in Manhattan’s East Village who has worked with Fortune 500 companies and startups alike. He has founded both physical and digtital businesses, including a successful East Village fry shop, and playful bamboo products company Potty Paper, INC, before expanding on his marketing experience with TheCleani. During his time in this role, Marco Lanuto developed the company’s go to market strategy, including global supply chain operations, product market positioning, and all matters of product development.

While serving in the position of Senior Marketing Manager at Equinox based out of Chelsea New York, Marco Lanuto supported the development of the company’s presence and brand identity in both new and existing markets. The Manhattan marketing professional also established go-to market strategies, with an emphasis on new Equinox club openings. He played a key role in expanding the company’s club portfolio.

In addition to his marketing experience, Marco Lanuto is a knowledgeable automotive enthusiast. He collects and modifies a range of vehicles, with a focus on German-built cars including BMWs, Audis, and classic Mercedes. He is a member of the BMW Car Club of America and a part of the East Village and Chelsea car communities. When he is not collecting or working on cars, he enjoys attending car shows and other automotive events.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

Like most people, my day begins with coffee! I begin by reviewing the movements from the day before and start to compile notes and a targeted to-do list. I like to put my day into buckets with targeted focus—a few hours on emails and focused work; some time on market trends, research, news; and setting some time for team connects and calls. I also ensure I get some form of exercise in, whether that’s the gym, a run, or taking my dog for a walk. I think it’s important to move about throughout the day.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I typically distill things into their simplest forms, look to accomplish the smaller, more digestible items, leading to a snowball effect. Sometimes, especially with big ideas or a new business venture, it can feel like a huge weight to get where you want to go. By accomplishing even one small step, like writing a mission statement or creating an outline, you’ve not only made it real but have also triggered your creative juices.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I don’t think it’s a trend just yet, but direct air capture (DAC)—which removes CO2 from the air through, essentially, giant synthetic trees—is growing in popularity and is seeing increased private and government investment. This is super cool technology which I hope continues to be adopted, invested in, and grow in capability.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

I don’t have just one habit but a set of habits that help productivity. I typically create framework for my day or a project:
1. Define what “good” looks like.
2. Create a checklist of specific actions
3. Execute within that structure:
• What is the objective?
• What are the success criteria?
• What are the major sections or milestones?
• What’s the next concrete action?

What advice would you give your younger self?

Things happen when they’re supposed to—not due to fate but cause and effect. Slow down, take the right small steps towards larger goals, and see them come to life.

Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.

I’m likely on the wrong side of this, but electric cars don’t feel like the future. Instead, electric cars feel like a stopgap in between internal combustion and the actual future of the car. Whether the future is Porsche’s eFuels or another energy source not yet invented.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Consistently exercising has a direct impact on productivity, mood, and outlook. It gives a feeling of accomplishment; makes you eat better, sleep better; and overall puts you into a rhythm.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

I listen to music; it helps center me and, ironically, block the noise out. Sometimes, it’s to my favorite music: jazz or piano covers by Peter Buka.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

I don’t think it’s one single strategy, but don’t be too risk averse. I’m not suggesting taking uneducated risks, but if you believe in something and have the knowledge to back it up, don’t walk away because there’s risk involved, especially when you’re young.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

How could it not be AI? I try not to be over-reliant on AI and instead use it to increase efficiency, rather than replace the actual work. Research, analysis, summarizing, etc. using AI frees up time and mental space for higher value work.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

I recently bought a new 8 iron club, and while I’m still just as mediocre at golf as I was before, at least I have a new club now!

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

I’ve been consistently listening to the “Acquired” podcast; whether it be on long drives or during the workday, their 3- to 4-hour podcasts are essentially full thesis papers. They are truly engaging and unique storytellers, not unlike Michael Lewis (my favorite author), who they recently featured.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I just finished “Your Friends & Neighbors,” which I thought was very well done because it wasn’t just about wealth or scandal—it was really about how people present themselves versus who they actually are. Each character seemed successful on the surface but, really, they were dealing with insecurity, ambition, loneliness, and pressure to maintain an image. It was interesting that there weren’t obvious heroes or villains. Everyone had flaws and different motivations, questionable decision-making (especially under pressure), which I feel is relatable to most people.

Key learnings

• Take thoughtful risks when you’re young.
• Slow down and allow your small steps to lead to larger goals.
• Just get started – even one small step can be the necessary catalyst.

Dean Petrovas has served as an asset manager at Hunt Club Apartments in Chicago since 2024. He began his career as an accountant with Louras CPA & Associates, a role that provided him with insight into the management of commercial real estate accounts and other privately held businesses. He joined Sundance Property Management as an asset manager in 2013, a position that involved operational and financial management for a portfolio consisting of more than 400 residential units and mobile home sites. Following three years as a senior asset manager and acquisitions associate at Sperry Van Ness/Bart, Dean Petrovas spent seven years as the director of investments for Sax Realty Group, Inc., during which time he spearheaded significant annual growth for the $500 million real estate portfolio.

After gaining further experience as an asset manager with Northern Trust, Dean Petrovas began working for Hunt Club Apartments. He oversees all daily operations and financial activities involving the organization’s portfolio of multifamily properties. He functions as the primary liaison between ownership, vendors, contractors, and business partners, with a focus on growth, operational success, and the timely resolution of business and tenant issues.

Dean Petrovas completed a general studies program at Indiana University. He later received his master of arts in real estate from DePaul University.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

I try to approach each day with structure and intention. I usually begin by reviewing my priorities and identifying the most important tasks that need my attention. Rather than trying to do everything at once, I focus on making steady progress on a few key goals. I also dedicate time each day to learning, whether that involves reading, studying new technology, or improving my professional skills. Staying organized and maintaining consistency has helped me become much more productive over time.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I believe ideas become valuable only when they are put into action. When I have an idea, I start by breaking it down into smaller, manageable steps. I focus on testing concepts quickly rather than waiting for perfection. Whether it is a business idea, a personal project, or a professional goal, I have found that taking consistent action and making adjustments along the way is far more effective than spending too much time planning.

What’s one trend that excites you?

Artificial intelligence is the trend that excites me the most. We are entering a period where individuals and small businesses can access tools that were previously available only to large organizations. AI has the potential to improve productivity, increase access to information, and create entirely new opportunities for innovation. I believe we are only beginning to see what these technologies will make possible.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

One habit that has helped me tremendously is planning the next day before going to sleep. Writing down my priorities in advance allows me to begin the day with clarity and direction. It reduces decision fatigue and helps ensure that my time is spent on meaningful work rather than reacting to distractions.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell my younger self to focus less on short-term setbacks and more on long-term growth. Life rarely follows a straight path, and challenges often become valuable learning experiences. Patience, persistence, and the willingness to keep moving forward are far more important than trying to achieve immediate success.

Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.

I believe that many people underestimate how much their lives can change in a relatively short period of time if they commit to consistent daily improvement. Small actions repeated over months and years can completely transform a person’s career, relationships, and opportunities. Most people focus on dramatic changes, but I think steady progress is far more powerful.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

I consistently invest time in learning new skills and expanding my knowledge. The world changes quickly, and continuous learning is one of the best investments anyone can make. Whether through books, online courses, conversations, or practical experience, learning creates opportunities that might not otherwise exist.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

When I feel overwhelmed, I try to simplify things. I step back, identify the most important task in front of me, and focus only on that. Exercise, walking, and spending time away from screens also help me regain perspective. I have found that clarity usually returns once I stop trying to solve everything at once.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

One strategy that has consistently helped me is building genuine relationships. Whether in sales, business, or personal development, relationships matter. People are more likely to trust, collaborate with, and support individuals who demonstrate reliability and authenticity. Focusing on long-term relationships rather than short-term transactions has opened doors throughout my career.

What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

Early in my career, I sometimes spent too much time trying to make decisions perfectly rather than taking action. Looking back, I learned that progress often comes from making informed decisions, learning from mistakes, and adjusting along the way. That lesson helped me become more adaptable and confident when facing uncertainty.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Artificial intelligence tools have become incredibly valuable for productivity. I use them to organize information, brainstorm ideas, learn new concepts, and improve efficiency. Rather than replacing human judgment, these tools help me process information more quickly and focus on higher-value tasks.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

One of the best recent purchases I made was a combination of books, educational resources, and online learning tools. Investing in knowledge has consistently produced returns that far exceed the initial cost because the lessons continue to compound over time.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

One book that has had a lasting impact on me is Atomic Habits by James Clear. The book focuses on how small daily actions compound into significant results over time. Its message reinforced my belief that success is often the product of consistency rather than dramatic breakthroughs.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I recently enjoyed How I Built This and similar entrepreneurial content because I enjoy hearing how founders overcome challenges and build successful businesses. Learning about the process behind innovation is often just as interesting as the final outcome.

Key learnings

• Consistent daily habits often create greater long-term results than short bursts of motivation.
• Continuous learning and adaptability are increasingly important in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
• Building genuine relationships and maintaining integrity can create opportunities throughout both business and personal life.
• Resilience and persistence are often more valuable than avoiding setbacks altogether.
• Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence can be powerful tools when used to enhance productivity and expand knowledge.

Elliot Fink is a Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP associate in New York City whose practice centers on labor and employment law. He works with employers on workplace litigation, traditional labor matters, compliance questions, and labor-management concerns. New York resident Elliot Fink’s background includes law firm experience and earlier human resources roles, giving him practical context for employee relations and workplace operations.

Before Skadden, Mr. Fink spent nearly four years at Seyfarth Shaw LLP. He also previously practiced at Paul Hastings LLP. His work has involved wage and hour claims, discrimination and harassment allegations, retaliation matters, employee mobility disputes, arbitration agreements, and union-related cases. He has also drafted briefs, agency position statements, settlement and severance agreements, advisory articles, and internal investigation materials.

In 2026, Mr. Fink was recognized by FT Innovative Lawyers for his role in helping create SEYscraper, Seyfarth Shaw’s proprietary AI tool. He earned his JD, magna cum laude, from Fordham University School of Law in 2020. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in history, magna cum laude, from the University of Michigan. He is licensed to practice law in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Texas, and numerous federal courts.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

I think the key to being productive is to stick to a routine. Typically, I start my days with a big breakfast, usually consisting of a fresh fruit smoothie, yogurt and/or cereal to help wake up my mind and body. I like to listen to music on my morning commute to the office to help clear my mind before I start a busy day as an attorney where I work tirelessly to help solve any issues that my clients may have that day. After a busy day at the office, I try to squeeze in some exercise before dinner to burn off any excess energy from the day before having dinner with my wife and then heading to bed. I find keeping this routine helps me remain present and productive in any tasks that may arise throughout the typical workday.

How do you bring ideas to life?

As a problem-solver and someone who is always trying to improve and better myself, I am very action-oriented. So when challenges pop up or when I notice processes could be made more efficient, I generally spend some time thinking through potential solutions, and when necessary, I speak to experts, conduct research, or seek advice from peers. After analyzing the likely results of the various different strategies, I jump into execution mode. Of course, it is always helpful to tweak things while in progress, and to continuously assess if the ideas I am implementing are actually serving their desired goals and whether or not they are creating unforeseen new issues.

What’s one trend that excites you?

AI. In just the last few years, it has completely revolutionized not just the legal profession, but literally every single workplace in the entire world. As an attorney who represents employers in this dynamic and ever-changing environment, I am excited by my peers who are embracing these new technologies to increase efficiencies and push the envelope forward in pursuit of their goals. As someone who loves to learn, I have relished this exciting time where we are just learning how to best utilize this powerful new arsenal of technology at our disposal.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

One habit that I’ve adopted over time is list keeping. It seems simple, maybe obvious, but given the busy non-stop world in which I operate as a lawyer, it’s incredibly important to have all my daily and weekly tasks organized by priority in one place. This not only allows me to maximize my efficiency, but it also ensures that nothing ever falls in between the cracks. There are many moving pieces in the world of Big Law so maintaining a simple to do list helps me be as productive as possible.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would tell my younger self that we cannot control everything, the only thing we can do is control the way we react. Life is messy and things might not always go our way but always approach everything you do calmly and with a level head because it all works out the way it’s meant to in the end. In other words, life is a bumpy journey, so buckle up and enjoy the ride.

Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.

I said this last year, and I will say it again, the Baltimore Ravens are going to win the Super Bowl this year!

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

I try to learn something new every day. Whether it be from a book or my peers, I know that everyone has something to share or contribute that can help me become a stronger attorney and better person. It’s easy to think we “know it all” but once we accept that we can learn more from others, that’s when we start to become the best versions of ourselves.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

Whenever I feel overwhelmed or unfocused I know I need to step away from whatever I’m working on and clear my head for a little bit. I like to go outside and get some fresh air, whether it’s just around the block or, if I have more time to the park, and take a deep breath and reset myself. This allows me to clear my mind that way I can go back to my project ready to work as my best self.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

Seeking out and nurturing valuable mentorship relationships has absolutely helped me advance my career. I have been fortunate enough to have tremendous opportunities provided by mentors who have allowed me to expand my skillset and grow as a lawyer. Having a mentor not only provides guidance in everyday or difficult situations, but they also instil the confidence you need to thrive on your own which is imperative to grow your skills, and eventually, generate business.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

As an urbanite living in New York City, I feel like we are missing a big opportunity to promote sustainability and healthy local food by not growing crops on the sprawling rooftops here. Any unsold produce could also help feed hungry members of our community, and the plants would have positive benefits for the environment and local biosphere.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

My Microsoft Outlook calendar is one of the keys to my productivity. Like most business professionals, I rely 100% on that calendar to tell me where I need to be and when. The most helpful feature is probably the 15 minute snooze alert before meetings. It’s easy for the day to get away from you when you’re totally focused on a brief or client meeting, so that feature reminds me that it’s time to start winding down so I can get my head ready for the next meeting or task at hand. In my personal life, my wife also benefits from my use of my Outlook calendar because then I don’t have to ask her about our weekend plans for the third time.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

A ticket to see my alma mater the University of Michigan basketball team play in Chicago in the Sweet 16 against Alabama as part of their recent NCAA tournament winning run. It was an honor to see that historically dominant team in person. Go Blue!!

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

The Great Bridge by David McCullough, which is an epic story describing the decades-long story entailed in the building of the Brooklyn Bridge. It touches on themes which resonate heavily today, such as how the nascent city of New York was dealing with the industrial revolution at the time the bridge was being built. Today we are dealing with the implications of Artificial Intelligence and other revolutionary technology reshaping our world and workplaces in particular.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

‘Nobody Wants This’ is an amazing show on Netflix. The characters face realistic life issues which makes it relatable, but its focus on humor makes it a great way to decompress. Also, at 30 minutes an episode, its an easy-to-watch show that my wife and I can enjoy together after a long workday. I was thrilled to hear it’s being picked up for another season.

Key learnings

• Control what you can control, and control how you react to what you cannot.
• Seek out and nurture valuable mentor relationships
• Stay organized and use tools like lists and calendars to help you.
• Don’t forget to breathe and get some fresh air when things get chaotic.
• Cherish quality time with family and friends, because life is short.

Andrey Yakunin is a British-Russian investor and entrepreneur with more than three decades of experience across finance, hospitality and real estate development. His career has focused on identifying complex or underperforming assets and transforming them into institutional-quality hospitality, residential and mixed-use projects.

Educated in Saint Petersburg, London and New York, Andrey holds a PhD in Finance and Credit from Saint Petersburg State University and an Executive MBA jointly delivered by London Business School and Columbia Business School. Andrey worked on projects involving leading international hotel brands, including Four Seasons, Radisson Blu, IHG and Six Senses. Among his best-known projects are the redevelopment of the historic Lion Palace in Saint Petersburg into the first Four Seasons hotel in Russia, Vienna’s Radisson Blu Park Royal Palace Hotel and Residences, and Antognolla Resort and Residences in Umbria, Italy.

At Antognolla, Andrey served as Chairman of the Board, overseeing the transformation of a historic Italian estate into a luxury resort and branded residential destination operated by Six Senses. The project was sold to the founder of Emaar Properties and Eagle Hills, Mohamed Alabbar, in October 2025.

Outside business, Andrey is closely involved in sailing and polar expeditions. He is often aboard his sailing vessel, Firebird, where he combines his interests in exploration, teamwork, preparation, and the natural world. He divides his time between London, Varese and expedition travel.

What is your typical day, and how do you make it productive?

It depends entirely on where I am.

When I am working on projects, my days tend to follow a certain structure. Mornings are usually quiet and start really early. After running, I always read something interesting prior the day kicks in. Then I catch up with the news and emails, read documents ahead of the calls with the team. The rest of the day is filled with meetings addressing projects’ updates and decisions we need to take to move forward. Evenings often spent editing photos and videos from our expeditions.

When I am on an expedition, the rhythm is completely different. The day is defined by watch systems, weather and operational priorities, including night shifts. Everything else is secondary.
I find the contrast useful. However, the difference is not that striking. Both, in their own way, reinforce the same principle, which is to focus on what actually matters and ignore the rest.

How do you bring ideas to life?

An idea on its own is not particularly valuable. Hard work is what makes a difference.

If the idea can survive contact with reality then we start with something concrete. A place, a building, a situation that can actually be improved.

From there it becomes a process of testing assumptions, adjusting constantly, and working with people who know what they are doing. Most ideas change quite significantly before they become viable. That is part of the process, not a problem.

For instance, when there is a plan to summit, then one needs 6-9 months to prepare, build aerobic endurance and learn the relevant skills. When it comes to business, the key advice is, as famous physicist Sergey Kapitsa once said: “To lead is not to interfere with good people doing their work.”

What’s one trend that excites you?

People are becoming more interested in experiences than in ownership.

In hospitality this is quite visible. Guests are no longer looking just for a place to stay. They are looking for something that feels coherent. Nature, design, culture, wellbeing, all working together.

What I find interesting is where this goes next. There is an opportunity to rethink how travel, exploration and hospitality connect. Those boundaries may become less rigid, and that creates space for more thoughtful and more interesting projects.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Protecting time where I am not interrupted.

It sounds simple, but it is surprisingly difficult to maintain. If the day is constantly broken into small pieces, it becomes very hard to do anything properly.

Even a short period of focused work without distractions tends to produce better results than a full day spent reacting.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Prepare yourself for when your dreams about polar expeditions come true!

Tell us something you believe that almost nobody agrees with you on.

There is a strong expectation that success should lead to “giving back”.

I have always been uncomfortable with that framing. Charity, in my view, should remain a voluntary act. Once it becomes obligation or something performed publicly, it changes its nature.

That is not a particularly popular position.

What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?

Keep learning new stuff. Never stop reading and exploring. Сuriosity, along with discipline, is what matters most.

When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?

Running helps. Hiking, skiing, anything that resets your perspective slightly.

Sailing is different. It requires more advanced planning and commitment, so it does not function as an immediate reset. It belongs to a different pace altogether.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?

Working on things that others prefer to avoid.

If something looks straightforward, there will usually be a lot of competition around it. That often limits the upside.

More complex situations tend to be less crowded. Historic buildings, unfinished developments, assets that have been neglected. They require more effort and more patience, but they also offer more room to create value.

What is one failure in your career, how did you overcome it, and what lessons did you take away from it?

With long-term projects, failure is rarely a single moment. It is usually a phase.

Delays, changing conditions, decisions that do not work as expected. All of that happens.

The main lesson is that persistence matters. If the underlying idea is sound, you keep adjusting and moving forward. If it is not, you recognise it early and stop.

What is one business idea you’re willing to give away to our readers?

A simple one.

Help people do something they already want to do, but cannot organise easily on their own.

In travel, for example, many people want more meaningful experiences but do not know where to start. The same applies in other areas. Learning, fitness, even personal development.

A well-designed service that removes friction from something people already value tends to be more effective than trying to create demand from scratch.

What is one piece of software that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

Navigation software.

At sea it becomes a daily tool. It helps interpret weather, plan routes and keep track of where you are.

It is reliable, but only to a point. You still need to understand what you are looking at.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

A nautical chart.

It is not particularly exciting, but it represents preparation. In remote places, preparation is what makes the difference between a good experience and a bad one.

Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?

I tend to return to history and literature.

They deal with the same themes people talk about in business today, but in a more nuanced way.

What’s a movie or series you recently enjoyed and why?

I do not watch much, to be honest.

If I have the opportunity, I tend to choose documentaries about exploration or history. They remind you how much of the world was understood by people who were willing to go a little further than was comfortable.

Key learnings

• Quiet, uninterrupted mornings are essential when working on complex projects.
• The most attractive opportunities are often the ones others choose to avoid.
• The quality of partners and teams has a decisive impact on outcomes.
• Experiences that combine nature, culture and design are increasingly shaping modern hospitality.
• Clear thinking and focus tend to outperform speed and constant activity.