Adam Weitsman grew up in Owego, New York, surrounded by scrap metal yards and a family business that dated back to 1938. It was part of daily life, not a career decision. After high school, he left for New York City to do something different.

He studied at Long Island University and NYU, and later took courses at Harvard. The classroom wasn’t the main focus. The art world was. In the early 1990s, at twenty-three, he opened his own American Folk Art gallery in Greenwich Village. He was buying nineteenth-century weather vanes, trade signs, and stoneware from estate sales upstate and selling them to collectors in the city for ten times what he paid. He spent the next several years learning how people assign value to things, often before the rest of the market catches up.

That idea stayed with him.

In the mid-1990s, he came home. He launched Upstate Shredding in 1996. The early years were hard. He took a $10 million loan for a shredder that initially sat idle. He got into financial trouble in 2003. He paid a $1 million fine. He served eight months at Otisville. He came out and rebuilt. In 2005, he acquired his family’s original company and merged the two operations into one. Today Upstate Shredding spans more than fifteen locations across New York and Pennsylvania and is one of the largest privately held scrap metal processors on the East Coast.

His work is built on systems. Efficiency, consistency, and scale.

Outside the business, he is a serious collector of American stoneware and contemporary art. He spent two decades building one of the most significant private stoneware collections in the country and donated the entire 500-piece collection, valued at $10 million, to the New York State Museum so it could stay in public hands. He owns four restaurants in Skaneateles. The Krebs, Elephant and the Dove, Hidden Fish, and Clover’s Cafe. All of them donate their net profits to charities supporting women and children in Central New York.
His path shows that sometimes the biggest opportunities are the ones nobody else is looking at.

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

Early. I start with the numbers from the yards. Volume, pricing, how fast material is moving. That tells me what’s real before I talk to anybody. Then I check in with managers across locations. If something is off, we fix it that day. Staying close to operations is what keeps the day productive.

How do you bring ideas to life?

Small first. When we expanded, we didn’t just build wherever. We looked at where trucks were losing time and put yards closer to the supply. If a change improves flow on a small level, we scale it. If it doesn’t, we don’t.

What’s one trend that excites you?

Digital assets and Web3. I got into Bored Ape Yacht Club and CryptoPunks early. It reminded me of buying folk art in the 90s. People don’t understand it at first, but value is already forming. That’s usually when I pay closest attention.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Consistency. I check the same core things every day. Numbers, operations, flow. It keeps the decisions grounded in what’s actually happening instead of what people are telling me is happening.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Slow down. I used to move too fast. The better decisions come from understanding the basics first.

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

Scale is overrated if the system underneath it doesn’t work. A smaller operation that runs cleanly is stronger than a bigger one with problems. Most people chase the size. The size is the easy part.

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

Look for where time is being wasted. In our business, it was trucks driving too far or material sitting too long. Fix that before you do anything else. The improvements compound.

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

Go back to the yard. Walk through the operation. Review the numbers. Most problems are operational, not theoretical, and standing in front of them makes that clear fast.

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

Placing operations closer to the supply. We had trucks making one trip a day when they could have been making three. We opened facilities in better locations and increased volume without adding more trucks. The system got more efficient without getting more expensive. That decision, repeated across fifteen locations, is most of how the company grew.

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

Early on, I expanded without consistent systems. Each location ran differently. It created inefficiencies that compounded. I fixed it by standardizing processes across every yard. The lesson was that structure has to come before growth, not after. Anything you build on a weak foundation eventually shows it.

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

Local scrap aggregation hubs. Small collection points that feed into larger processors. It cuts travel time and improves efficiency across regions. Most of the inefficiency in the industry comes from material moving too far before it gets processed.

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

ERP and reporting tools like Scrap Dragon, plus internal dashboards. I use them to track daily volume, pricing, and performance across every location in real time. If you can’t see the numbers, you can’t run the business.

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

Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr. and The First Tycoon: The Epic Life of Cornelius Vanderbilt. Both show how real systems and industries get built over time. Slow, ugly, and consistent. I also listen to How I Built This for different perspectives on how operators actually grow companies.

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

American Factory on Netflix. It shows how manufacturing actually works at the floor level. Operations, people, systems. That’s always been the interesting part of any business to me.

Key learnings

• Growth comes from fixing inefficiencies, not chasing scale.
• Strong systems create consistency across locations.
• Value is usually found early, in places nobody else is looking.
• Staying close to operations leads to better decisions.
• Small improvements in process drive most of the long-term result.

With a background in game testing, academic research, teaching, and podcast production, Justin Zarian brings a blend of technical precision and storytelling insight to every project he undertakes. Justin Zarian’s work reflects a commitment to quality, critical thinking, and collaborative creativity across digital and traditional media.

Justin Zarian works in video game quality assurance, where he has developed deep expertise in functional testing across major gaming platforms. His work emphasizes gameplay stability, usability, and systematic bug reporting, with a reputation for attention to detail and adaptability. Throughout his career, he has contributed to several high-profile, award-winning titles, supporting development teams through disciplined testing processes and clear communication.

Mr. Zarian has also been involved in podcasting and online media for many years, particularly through a Texas-based podcasting network where he served as a host, editor, producer, and site administrator. He created and led multiple long-running shows, overseeing every aspect from concept development and recording to post-production and distribution.

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

My typical day involves work, taking care of my grandmother (when I’m able to visit her), and working on improving myself. Even when I’m working from home, I strive to find ways to make it more productive by finding things that can be done in the background – particularly making sure that I keep my home orderly and clean.

How do you bring ideas to life?

The best way I have brought my ideas to life is through writing. I don’t do it as much as I would like to, given I tend to write in bursts of inspiration, but I enjoy writing (scripts, traditional narrative, etc),as a way to put ideas out there. It’s a way to help nurture my creativity.

What’s one trend that excites you?

A trend that excites me is the growing interest in single player video games. While multiplayer is still a dominant force in the industry, the oversaturation of it and the aggressive monetization has caused a decline in enthusiasm from gamers towards the hobby overall. There has been a growing demand to make the experiences more unique, more memorable, and more finite. Seeing the success of something like “Clair Obscur: Expedition 33” gives me hope that there is still a desire to see games that don’t endlessly monetize with little reward.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

A habit that keeps me productive is prayer. Prayer is a great way for me to motivate myself to be productive. It helps keep me focused on accountability and to look into myself to see what more I can do.

What advice would you give your younger self?

The advice I would give to my younger self is to not waste time and stay diligent in accomplishing my most important goals. I was too focused on not rushing headlong into things that I didn’t focus on accomplishing more sooner.

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

I believe The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is the true restored church on Earth. I am not the best at following everything, but I know where my foundations lie for my testimony.

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

One thing I repeatedly do is find times to decompress when things are stressful. Gaming, movies, writing, music, etc. Finding the right time to vent and relax is healthy.

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

I usually take a step back, pray, take deep breaths to calm my thoughts, and then focus on doing something more active to distract myself.

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

One strategy that has helped me in my career is staying driven and actively engaged in my work. With all my education and experience under my belt, nothing helps ensure job security more than being proactive and diligent in whatever task I am assigned to. It shows strength of character, helps me continue to develop my skills, and reassures leadership that I am committed to being a great employee.

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

The biggest lesson I have learned is how one’s emotional and mental well-being can have a direct impact on their work. Whether from the hardships I’ve faced or bad habits I’ve neglected to address, these issues will certainly cause problems if left unresolved. To overcome this, I have worked on my self-care a lot more, through therapy, finding new work, working on personal accountability, etc. I had to make difficult but necessary changes in my life.

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

One piece of software I use a lot is Telegram. It has been a super useful tool when it comes to keeping in touch with the family. It helps me to make sure I keep track of things that truly matter.

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

The best $100 I’ve spent recently was for my Costco membership renewal (it was a bit more than $100, but close enough). It may seem like a silly thing, but Costco has been a huge help for shopping when it comes to bigger or more unique items for my house.

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

A podcast I have gained a lot of value from is oneofus.net. For many years, I worked on it as a volunteer to record, edit, and promote shows and episodes. I made many connections on the podcast, learned a lot of technical skills, improved my speaking and analytical skills, and found a great outlet for my passions in media.

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

Recently, I have been a huge fan of the show Invincible. While superhero fatigue is a thing, seeing how great an animated superhero show can be in the face of middling content like The Boys really shows what the genre can inspire to even in a creative slump. Not only have they had top notch talent working on it, but the comic’s original author Robert Kirkman has been so directly involved to ensure that the spirit of the original story is preserved even with the changes made. It’s basically a rewrite of the original but done in such a way that it elevates it rather than betrays it.

Key learnings

•  Even if one does not have faith, faith-based techniques can be good for practical purposes as much as spiritual.
• Be passionate and involved in the things you love.
• Be accountable when making mistakes.
• Be diligent in whatever you do.
• Don’t be embarrassed or ashamed over things you are passionate about.

Having served as Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) chief and commissioner, Andrew Miller is now a Carmel, IN, business leader. As Ouabache Investments managing member, he identifies dynamic founder-led companies spanning agriculture, food, and beverage sectors. Andrew Miller serves on the boards of directors of the firms his company invests in. Deploying Weaver family funds, he actively guides companies to the next level of profitability and market reach. He excels in developing viable business plans and installing best management practices.

Mr. Miller completed undergraduate studies at Purdue University and served as School of Agriculture ambassador. He gained early experience as Procter & Gamble brand manager and was marketing director with Nabisco prior to taking on responsibilities as CEO of Nature’s Entree. Starting with the concept of a company, he oversaw team hiring and pitched investors on a new concept. Ultimately partnering with an East Coast private equity fund, he oversaw the successful launch and management of a new food concern.

Andrew Miller earlier served at Weaver Popcorn, the world’s largest popcorn maker, as marketing and R&D leader, and as head of business development and strategic development. In his leadership of Indiana’s BMV, he implemented innovative programs that helped ensure proper functioning of a vital public agency. A sports enthusiast, he is a longtime fan of the Chicago Cubs.’

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

My day always starts with a quick cup of coffee, getting ready, and heading out the door for work. When I get to work, I do my daily Bible reading, review several news and financial sites, and begin working. From there, nothing is typical. Every day is an adventure. At the end of the day, I head home and make dinner. Making dinner is one of the best things about the day. It is a release, and it makes me happy to please my family.

How do you bring ideas to life?

Bringing an idea to life starts with coming up with the idea itself. Good ideas require research, contemplation, and thoroughly thinking through how the idea will be executed. These steps are critical as they are the foundation of how an idea will be sold to the team. From there it takes presenting the idea to the team, selling it, and, most importantly, taking feedback on how to make it better—and sometimes recognizing it wasn’t a good idea after all. If we proceed, it takes diligence and leadership to bring it to life.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I am very encouraged by the growing number of young adults returning to the Catholic Church. It reflects a broader desire for meaning, structure, and community in a fast-paced and often-disconnected world. I believe this trend speaks to a renewed interest in faith-based values and long-term purpose, especially among younger generations seeking deeper fulfillment. It’s a meaningful shift that I hope continues to grow in the years ahead.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Somewhat ironically, a tendency to worry helps keep me productive. While it can be a double-edged sword, it pushes me to think through potential challenges and stay ahead of issues both at work and in life. I’ve learned to balance that mindset with optimism, which allows me to stay proactive without becoming overwhelmed. When managed well, it leads to better preparation and stronger outcomes.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t rush. Take the time to fully appreciate each stage of life rather than always looking ahead to what’s next. Some of the most meaningful growth and experiences happen when you slow down and stay present. In the long run, those moments matter just as much as the milestones.

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

I believe that there is something good in everyone. While that perspective can be challenged at times, I think most people are shaped by their circumstances, and there is usually some underlying positive intent or potential. Taking that approach has helped me stay open-minded and work more effectively with a wide range of people. It’s not always easy, but I’ve found it leads to better understanding and stronger relationships.

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

One thing I consistently do and encourage others to consider is reading the Bible. For me, it provides a sense of perspective, guidance, and grounding that carries into both my personal and professional life. It’s a way to step back, reflect, and stay connected to values that matter over the long term. Even for those with different beliefs, I think there’s value in taking time to reflect on something meaningful and enduring.

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

When I start to feel overwhelmed or unfocused, I find it helpful to step away for a bit. Taking a walk or simply pausing what I’m doing gives me a chance to reset and clear my head. That break usually helps me come back with better focus and a fresh perspective. It’s a simple habit, but it makes a big difference in staying productive.

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

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that being a strong “doer” doesn’t automatically make you a strong manager. Early on, I focused on executing well, but real growth came when I shifted my attention to leading people effectively. By developing my management skills, I’ve been able to build and guide teams that drive results far beyond what any one individual can accomplish. In the long run, strong leadership and team development have been the most important factors in achieving sustained success.

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, my first experience in a management role did not go well and ultimately resulted in a demotion. It was a difficult but important turning point that forced me to recognize the gap between being a strong individual contributor and an effective leader. I invested time in training and learning how to manage people, communicate clearly, and lead with intention. That work paid off, as my next management role was much more successful, and it reinforced the importance of continually developing leadership skills.

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

While still relatively new, I’ve found that AI tools are extremely helpful in improving productivity. They allow me to quickly gather information, organize ideas, and streamline routine tasks that would otherwise take significantly more time. I use AI to support research, refine communication, and think through different approaches to problems. When used thoughtfully, it’s a powerful tool that enhances efficiency without replacing critical thinking.

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

The best $100 I recently spent was on dinner with my family. It wasn’t about the meal itself, but the opportunity to spend quality time together without distractions. In a busy schedule, those moments are easy to overlook, but they’re ultimately what matter most. Investing in time with family is something I always find meaningful and worthwhile.

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

The Bible is the book I’ve gotten the most value from over time. It offers perspective, guidance, and principles that apply across both personal and professional life. I find that returning to it regularly helps me stay grounded and focused on what truly matters. Its consistency and depth make it something I continue to learn from over time.

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

I’ve recently been watching “House of Cards,” and I’ve really enjoyed it. The show does a great job of exploring leadership, strategy, and decision-making in a high-stakes environment. I find the character dynamics and long-term thinking especially interesting, as they reflect many of the challenges you see in business and leadership. It’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Key learnings

• Never give up.
• Never be afraid to try something that seems counterintuitive.
• Never be ashamed of your faith.
• Spend time with your family.

Working in college, club, and high school swimming, Andrew Parro has developed a career that combines coaching, instruction, and program oversight. Based on a background in exercise science, Andrew Parro applies sports performance training principles to athlete development while also handling the operational side of competitive swimming programs. He earned a bachelor of arts in liberal studies from Arizona State University and a master of science in exercise science from Concordia University Chicago, with a focus on sports performance training. His experience reflects steady involvement in recruiting, staff management, curriculum delivery, and long-term training planning.

Mr. Parro serves as associate head swimming coach at Colorado Mesa University. In this capacity, he is responsible for recruiting, coordinating training groups, and supporting team administration. He has also taught kinesiology courses there as an adjunct faculty member. Before that, Mr. Parro worked as aquatic director and head swim coach at Saddle and Cycle Club, head swimming coach at Illinois Institute of Technology, head swimming and diving coach at Whitney Young High School, and founder and head coach of Six Point Aquatics. Across those roles, his work has centered on building programs over time, using research-supported training methods, and helping athletes develop both performance habits and team awareness.

Outside his professional work, Mr. Parro’s interests include mountain biking, ultramarathon trail running, skiing, swimming, and hiking. He has three children.

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

I wake up early since I typically begin work at 6 am for the first of two training sessions per day. I pack a few snacks and try to get to work 15 minutes before the training session begins to review my notes. Training runs until 8 am.

At 8 o’clock, I find some space to take notes and reflect on the training session while it’s fresh in mind and plan for the next session. During the day, I have several meetings with athletes and the other coaches, communicate with prospective student athletes in the recruiting process, and attend to the various administrative duties of running a college swim program.

Our second session of the day is 2:00-4:30 and is a more focused swim session. The training is important and requires a lot of focus and collaboration with the other coaches.

I typically take a recruiting call on the way home and spend time with family.

Exercise is important, and I try to find 30 to 60 minutes every day for my own training.

I make my day productive by staying organized and planning with a calendar that keeps me on task. I keep a notebook handy at all times that tracks tasks and notes throughout the day.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I begin by brainstorming and getting the bones of an idea in writing. From there, I will research expert opinions and rely on the input on my peers. With that knowledge, I will develop the details of an idea and make a plan to implement it.

What’s one trend that excites you?

My career as a swim coach is a large part of my identity. The sport (and most sports) are improving at a dramatic rate. More focused and specific training techniques that are data-driven and research-supported are driving the results in athletics. It’s fun to watch and be a part of.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

The only way I can be productive is if I maintain my health. Exercise is the primary contributor to my productivity.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Ask more questions, rely on advice more often.

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

Exercise. Find a way to be healthy by moving your body.

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

I rely on my faith and pray regularly. My family is important; time with them can be fulfilling and rejuvenating.

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

Consistency is key. I know what I need to do well and do it consistently. I’m always learning and exploring new things, but they can’t get in the way of the foundational habits that must be done consistently to be successful.

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

Our 2025 men’s team performance was awful. We overcame this by re-establishing our standards and holding athletes to them on a daily basis.

I learned that past performance is not an indicator of future potential. Hard work is required and there is no substitute for the discipline that’s required to be paired with hard work.

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

I use my calendar more than anything. If something doesn’t exist there, I’ll probably forget about it.

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

The last $100 I spent on travel. Travel is hard to commit to, difficult to plan, and inconvenient to find time for. It’s so worth it. Travel with family is something I must make sacrifices for.

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

I just finished “The Way of Excellence” and thought it was a wonderful summary and explanation for what striving for excellence looks like on a daily basis. I gained some insightful ways to explain ideas that I previously struggled to articulate. Sharing them with the athletes I coach has been helpful.

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

I enjoyed “Pluribus.” Enough sci-fi that viewers can suspend their disbelief and buy into the story as something that could actually happen. Not so much that it’s totally imaginary. It makes the viewer think about how the storyline could actually be real.

Key learnings

• Passion about your work is important; it drives success in every aspect of life.
• Health is key for the body to pursue excellence.
• Family over everything—they are the only ones who will be with you no matter what.

Dr. Nikesh Seth built his career at the intersection of precision and care. Born in Texas and raised in Arizona, he grew up watching his parents work hard to create opportunity. That early example shaped how he approaches both medicine and life.
He attended Horizon High School in Scottsdale before earning a biomedical engineering degree from Johns Hopkins University. There, he developed a mindset rooted in problem-solving and innovation. He also spent time conducting research at the National Institutes of Health, where he learned to rely on data, not assumptions.

Dr. Seth went on to complete his anesthesiology residency at the University of Texas Medical Center and a fellowship in pain management at Northwestern University. These experiences exposed him to complex cases and advanced techniques that would later define his work.

He later founded Integrated Pain Consultants, growing it into a multi-state practice with more than 15 providers and over 10 locations. After its successful sale, he chose to return to a more focused model.

Today, he is the founder and CEO of Global Pain Solutions, a Scottsdale-based practice centered on minimally invasive and regenerative treatments. The practice emphasizes individualized care and structured treatment plans designed to restore function and reduce long-term dependence on medication.

Outside of medicine, he values time with his wife and two children. Whether running, playing tennis, or teaching his son programming, he brings the same discipline to family life as he does to his work.

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

My day starts early. I usually review patient charts before clinic. That gives me a clear plan before I walk into the room. Most of my day is spent seeing patients or performing procedures. I block time between cases to reset and review notes. That keeps things consistent. In the evening, I spend time with my family. Productivity for me is about structure and staying present in each part of the day.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I start by breaking ideas into systems. That comes from my engineering background. For example, when I built my first practice, I mapped out patient flow, staffing, and scheduling before expanding. Then I test small, adjust, and scale slowly. I don’t rush ideas into full execution.

What’s one trend that excites you?

The shift toward minimally invasive and regenerative treatments. Patients are looking for options that reduce downtime and avoid long-term medication. That aligns with where medicine is going.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Reviewing the next day before it starts. Even 15 minutes of preparation changes how the day flows.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Focus less on speed and more on structure. Growth without systems creates problems later.

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

Not every patient needs more treatment. Sometimes doing less is the right decision. That can be hard in a system that rewards volume.

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

Ask better questions. Whether it’s in medicine or business, clarity comes from asking the right questions early.

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

I simplify. I step away and focus on one task at a time. I also lean on routines like exercise. Running helps clear my head.

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

Standardization. When I scaled my previous practice, we created consistent processes for patient intake, procedures, and follow-up. That allowed us to grow without losing quality.

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

Early on, I expanded too quickly. We added locations before fully building the systems to support them. It created inefficiencies. I corrected that by tightening processes and slowing growth. The lesson was clear: structure first, scale second.

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

A structured follow-up system for chronic care patients. Many practices miss this. Consistent follow-up improves outcomes and retention.

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

Our electronic medical record system. I use it not just for documentation, but to track patterns in patient outcomes and refine treatment plans.

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

Atomic Habits by James Clear. It breaks down how small systems create long-term results. That applies to both medicine and business.

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

I enjoyed The Last Dance. It shows discipline, structure, and consistency over time. That mindset applies to any field.

Key learnings

• Strong systems and structure create sustainable growth and better outcomes.
• Asking better questions leads to clearer decisions and improved results.
• Growth without operational discipline often creates long-term inefficiencies.
• Consistency in small daily habits drives long-term success across fields.
• Innovation works best when combined with careful evaluation and restraint.

Kevin Hayes grew up in Metairie, Louisiana, where discipline and structure shaped his early years. He attended Jesuit High School before continuing to Louisiana State University. While at LSU, he ran for student government president and finished as runner-up. That experience gave him an early look at leadership and responsibility.

He went on to earn his law degree from Southern University Law Center in 1991. During law school, he faced personal loss, including the passing of his father. That moment changed how he viewed his future. It pushed him to focus on purpose and staying grounded.

Hayes began his career as General Counsel for the Louisiana Senate Commerce Committee. There, he saw how ideas move through the legislative process. He learned that plans only matter when they are followed through.

He later became a partner at Roedel Parsons and Adams and Reese. These roles helped him build a strong foundation in legal and business strategy.

Today, Hayes is the owner of Hayes Strategic Solutions LLC. His work focuses on lobbying and advising clients on policy and regulatory matters. He is known for his focus on planning, consistency, and trust.

He believes in doing what he says he will do. He values discipline, reflection, and staying grounded. His career shows that steady effort and clear thinking can shape long-term results.

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

I start early. I like to have quiet time before everything gets moving. I usually write in a journal first. That helps me organise my thoughts. Then I map out the day. I keep it simple. A few key priorities, not a long list. If I complete those, the day is productive.

How do you bring ideas to life?

It starts with writing things down. A lot of ideas sound good in your head but fall apart when you put them on paper. I build a plan, then I break it into steps. After that, it is about discipline. You follow through, even when it gets repetitive.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I think there is a growing focus on accountability again. People are starting to value follow-through more. That matters in law, policy, and business.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Journalling. I track what I do and what I need to do. It keeps me honest.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Stick to your plan and trust the process. Do not get distracted by short-term results.

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

I think most people overcomplicate success. It is usually simple. Do what you say you will do, over and over again.

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

Follow through. It sounds basic, but it is rare.

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

I step back. I go back to my plan. Sometimes I take a walk or just sit quietly. Then I reset and focus on one task at a time.

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

Consistency. Over time, people notice if you deliver. That builds trust. Trust leads to more opportunities.

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 took on too much at once. I thought more work meant better results. It did not. I learned to focus on fewer things and do them well. That changed everything.

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

A simple accountability group. A small group that meets weekly to review goals and progress. It costs nothing but can make a big difference.

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

I use basic note-taking apps. Nothing complicated. I track goals, notes, and plans in one place.

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

I tend to go back to books about discipline and habits. They reinforce the basics. That is what matters most.

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

I enjoy stories about leadership and decision-making. They show how people handle pressure and responsibility.

Key learnings

• Consistency and follow-through build long-term trust and credibility.
• Simple systems like journalling and planning can improve focus and execution.
• Breaking ideas into clear steps makes them easier to act on.
• Doing fewer things well often leads to better results than doing too much.
• Accountability, even in small ways, can drive steady personal and professional growth.

Ron Yeffet’s journey began in Jerusalem, where he was born in 1966. At a young age, he developed a strong sense of discipline and responsibility. That mindset deepened during his 37 months of service in the Israeli Defense Forces, where he served as a Major Sergeant in the Artillery and Bomb Squad Unit.

After completing his service, Ron made a bold move. He traveled to the United States to begin building his future. He did not follow a fixed path. Instead, he focused on learning, adapting, and taking action.

He started in New York City real estate. Over time, his work expanded far beyond local development. Across more than 25 years, Ron has managed over 100 projects and owned north of 50. His work spans the United States, Israel, Europe, and Africa.

His projects are wide-ranging. They include concrete superstructures, energy supply systems, power plants, and major infrastructure. Each project reflects his focus on planning, teamwork, and execution.

Ron also values community. He played a role in building Jewish communal life in parts of the Balkans, helping create lasting institutions where few existed before.

Today, Ron continues to focus on long-term impact. His work is shaped by simple principles: stay disciplined, plan carefully, and follow through. His career reflects what can happen when ideas are matched with consistent action.

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

My day usually starts early. I review ongoing projects before anything else. I like to look at what needs attention, not just what is urgent. I spend a lot of time talking with teams across different regions. Communication keeps things moving. I stay productive by focusing on a few key priorities instead of trying to do everything.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I break them down. Big ideas are not useful unless you can execute them. I start with planning, then build the right team. After that, it is about consistent follow-through. I always ask, “What does this look like in reality?”

What’s one trend that excites you?

Infrastructure development in emerging regions. There is a real need, and the impact is long-term. When done right, it changes how people live and work.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Reviewing plans daily. Even small adjustments early can prevent big problems later.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Be patient. Growth takes time. Focus on learning, not just results.

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

I believe most projects fail before they start. Not during execution, but during poor planning.

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

Think long term. Short-term thinking creates weak outcomes.

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

I go back to basics. I simplify the situation and focus on one task at a time.

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

Building strong relationships. Many opportunities came from trust. When people see consistent results, they want to work with you again.

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 a project timeline in New York. It caused delays and stress. I learned that planning must be realistic, not optimistic. Since then, I focus more on preparation.

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

A platform that tracks long-term performance of infrastructure projects. Not just cost, but real impact over time.

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

Simple project management tools. I use them to track progress and keep communication clear across teams.

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

Books on leadership and history. They show how decisions shape long-term outcomes.

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

I enjoy documentaries about large-scale projects. They show the process behind complex work.

Key learnings

• Strong planning and discipline are often more important than the idea itself.
• Long-term thinking leads to more sustainable and meaningful results.
• Consistent execution builds trust and creates new opportunities.
• Community impact should be considered alongside business outcomes.
• Breaking down complex ideas into simple steps makes them achievable.

Javier Burillo Azcárraga built his career by doing the work most people avoid. He started at the Ritz in Acapulco washing dishes. It was not glamorous, but it gave him a clear view of how a business actually runs. Over time, he moved through operations and became General Manager. That early experience shaped how he approaches leadership.
He went on to open restaurants in Mexico, including Casa de Campo in Cuernavaca and Mexico City. These became known for their quality and consistency. He focused on execution, not just ideas.

In 1997, he founded Las Ventanas al Paraíso. He built it from the ground up and focused on every detail. The resort was named the #1 boutique hotel in the world by Condé Nast Traveler for three consecutive years. He later sold the property in 2004.

After that, he became a partner in Camper & Nicholsons, a global yacht company. He held that role for several years before stepping away from business operations.

Today, he is the Founder and Chairman of Grant’s Crusade. The nonprofit supports neurodiverse children and their families. It was created in honor of his son.

His work has stayed consistent across industries. Keep things simple. Focus on execution. Stay close to the details. Build something that works, not just something that looks good.

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

My day starts early. I like to walk or do some form of exercise first. It clears my head. Then I review what actually needs to get done. Not everything, just the important things. I try to stay close to the work. I speak with people directly. I avoid long meetings. Productivity comes from doing fewer things well

How do you bring ideas to life?

I test them quickly. I don’t spend too much time planning. At Las Ventanas, we would try things in small ways before rolling them out. If something worked, we repeated it. If it didn’t, we stopped. Ideas don’t matter if they don’t hold up in real situations.

What’s one trend that excites you?

More focus on practical support for families, especially in the neurodiverse space. People are starting to look at what actually helps instead of just talking about awareness.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Finishing what I start. It sounds simple, but most people move on too quickly. I stay with something until it works.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Be more patient. Results take time. Early in my career, I wanted things to move faster. But consistency matters more than speed.

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

Most systems are too complicated. People think complexity makes things better. It usually makes them worse.

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

Pay attention to small details. That’s where problems start.

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

I simplify. I remove everything that is not essential. Then I focus on one thing at a time.

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

Starting at the bottom helped me understand the full operation. When you know how things work, you make better decisions. It also helps you earn respect from your team.

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

I opened a restaurant early on that didn’t perform as expected. We focused too much on the concept and not enough on daily operations. I learned that ideas are not enough. Execution is everything.

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

A simple service business that focuses only on solving one problem very well. Most people try to do too much. Focus wins.

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

I keep things simple. I use basic calendar and notes tools. The value is not in the software. It’s in how you use it.

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

I tend to revisit classic business books. They focus on fundamentals. Those don’t change.

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

I like documentaries about people building things from nothing. They show the real process, not just the result.

Key learnings

• Strong execution at the operational level is more important than having a great idea.
• Simplicity in systems and processes leads to better long-term results.
• Starting at the bottom builds a deeper understanding of how businesses actually work.
• Consistency over time creates trust and sustainable success.
• Real impact comes from focusing on what works, not what looks impressive.

Timothy Bradbury Monzello built his career step by step, starting with hands-on work and growing into leadership and teaching. He grew up in Southern California in the 1960s and 70s. After losing his mother at a young age, he was raised by his father alongside his siblings. That early experience shaped his work ethic and sense of responsibility.

He began his career working as an auto mechanic and machinist. He spent years learning how machines work and how parts are made. He worked with mills, lathes, and CNC systems. Over time, he moved into leadership roles, including foreman, supervisor, and plant manager. Each role gave him a deeper understanding of production and operations.

Later, he returned to school and earned degrees in electronics, language arts, business administration, and an MBA. He combined education with real-world experience.

He spent 19 years at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. There, he worked as a Master Production Scheduler and later as a Group Lead in Manufacturing Engineering. His work focused on making sure complex systems could be built the right way.

Alongside his career, he began teaching manufacturing and machine tool technology. He has now taught for over a decade. Today, he continues to share what he has learned, helping others connect ideas with real-world results.

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

My day starts early. I like to review what I need to get done before anything else. When I was at JPL, I learned that planning saves time later. Now, I still follow that habit. I break my day into small tasks. I also leave room for unexpected issues, because they always show up.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I start by asking how something will actually be built. That question guides everything. I’ve seen ideas fail because no one thought about the process. I sketch things out, then I think about tools, materials, and steps. If it doesn’t make sense in production, I adjust early.

What’s one trend that excites you?

I like seeing more focus on practical manufacturing again. There’s more attention on how things are made, not just designed. That shift helps close the gap between engineers and production teams.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

Writing things down. I keep notes on what works and what doesn’t. Over time, that builds a personal reference. It helps me avoid repeating mistakes.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would say be patient and keep learning. I didn’t rush my education, and that helped me understand it better. I would also say listen more to people who have been doing the work longer.

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

Not everything needs tight tolerances. I’ve seen designs where everything was over-specified. That slows production and adds cost. Precision matters, but only where it’s needed.

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

Talk to the people who actually build the product. They will tell you things you won’t find in a design manual.

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

I step away and reset. Sometimes I go outside or work on something simple. When I come back, I focus on one task at a time instead of trying to solve everything at once.

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

Understanding the full process. I didn’t stay in one area. I learned machining, planning, and management. That gave me a bigger picture. It helped me make better decisions and lead teams more effectively.

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 worked on a part that looked good in design but failed in production. We had to redo it. It delayed everything. I learned to always think about how something will be made before finalizing it.

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

A simple consulting service that reviews designs for manufacturability before production. Many companies skip that step and pay for it later.

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

I use basic spreadsheet tools. I track schedules, notes, and tasks. It’s simple, but it works. I don’t need anything complex to stay organized.

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

I’ve always liked books that focus on systems and operations. “The Goal” by Eliyahu Goldratt stands out. It shows how small changes in process can make a big difference.

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

I enjoy historical series. They show how people solved problems with the tools they had. That mindset still applies today.

Key learnings

• Strong design decisions must account for real-world production, not just theory.
• Early collaboration between design and manufacturing reduces delays and cost.
• Small process improvements can create large operational gains over time.
• Learning across multiple roles builds better long-term decision making.
• Consistent habits and simple systems often outperform complex solutions.

Marty Brickey is a U.S.-based entrepreneur, investor, and technology leader who has built his career by turning unconventional ideas into real businesses. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Management from Missouri State University, where he began shaping a mindset focused on problem-solving and adaptability.

Growing up, Marty moved often due to his father’s job. That experience taught him how to adjust quickly and see opportunity in new environments. As a teenager, time spent in Colorado sparked his love for exploration, something that would later influence both his work and personal life.

In 2002, he founded Layne Morgan Media, where he helped pioneer educational graphic novels. The company produced content for The McGraw-Hill Companies, showing how storytelling could improve how people learn. He later entered the gaming industry by founding Flyover Entertainment, a group of studios that expanded internationally and were eventually acquired by Vivendi Universal. That work contributed to the foundation of Sierra Online and the growth of Activision Blizzard’s presence in China.

Over time, Marty took on roles as a CEO, advisor, and investor. He has worked with companies like Gasworks Games, which was later acquired by Zynga. Today, he focuses on technology and software, while also supporting efforts that help veterans manage PTSD, anxiety, and trauma through innovative solutions.

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

My day usually starts early. I try to get some kind of movement in, either cycling or something simple to clear my head. After that, I focus on priority work before anything else can distract me. I break my day into blocks. Mornings are for thinking and decision-making. Afternoons are for calls and collaboration. I stay productive by limiting noise and focusing on what actually moves things forward.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I start small. I don’t try to build the whole thing at once. I look for the simplest version that proves the idea works. When we started educational graphic novels, it was just testing if people would engage differently. Once you see traction, you build from there.

What’s one trend that excites you?

Technology being used for mental health. There’s real potential to reach people who would never step into a traditional system. That matters, especially for veterans dealing with PTSD and anxiety.

What is one habit that helps you be productive?

I write things down. Not just tasks, but thoughts. It helps me stay clear and focused. If it’s not written down, it’s easy to lose track.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Move faster. I spent time overthinking decisions early on. You learn more by doing than by waiting.

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

I think most people make things too complicated. Simple ideas, executed well, beat complex ideas that never get finished.

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

Step back and ask what actually matters. It’s easy to get caught in busy work.

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

I step away completely. Sometimes I’ll go for a ride or just disconnect. That reset helps more than pushing through.

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

Focusing on overlooked opportunities. Educational graphic novels weren’t common when we started. Neither was building global game studios the way we did. Looking where others aren’t gives you space to build.

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

I’ve had projects where we tried to scale too fast. We assumed demand would follow automatically. It didn’t. I learned to validate before expanding.

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

A simple platform that connects veterans to peer support in real time, with privacy built in. It doesn’t need to be complicated to be useful.

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

I use simple note and task tools. Nothing complex. I organize ideas, track priorities, and keep everything visible.

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

I tend to revisit classic business and mindset books. The ones that focus on thinking clearly and acting decisively always stand out.

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

I enjoy anything that shows how people solve problems under pressure. It’s interesting to see how different personalities approach challenges.

Key learnings

• Focus on simple ideas and execute them well rather than overcomplicating plans.
• Test ideas early before scaling to reduce risk and improve outcomes.
• Look for opportunities in spaces that others overlook.
• Build habits that create clarity, such as writing down priorities and thoughts.
• Take breaks when overwhelmed to reset and return with better focus.