My Interviews

18
Oct
2019

Dennis Powers

Finances are an important part of our lives. We are constantly seeking comfort when it comes to financial security. Many people have to take out loans in order to get ahead. However, there are lenders who are not as friendly and understanding of the people that request these loans. Fortunately, one man has made a difference in the lives of those who seek financial aid. Dennis Powers is the founder of PersonalLoanGuarantee and has worked his entire life to bring people quality lending services. Dennis Powers grew up in an environment in which his father taught him the importance of a strong work ethic. His father worked for a bank and taught Dennis many important lessons in finance.

Dennis Powers has been working in the financial industry for over twenty years and has an MBA from NYU Stern School of business. Dennis continues to make a positive impact every day in the lives of people that he works with. He is a family man that has been married for eight years and has two loving children. We were fortunate enough to talk to Dennis Powers about his success and pick his brain to find ways that we can all become more successful.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in this field?

I knew from a very young age that I wanted to help people improve their lives. The one skill that I had developed since I was a child was financial management. I was very good at numbers and was able to apply this skill to the financial industry. My father was a banker and had taught me many valuable lessons when it comes to financing. Fortunately, I was in good hands whenever it came to developing myself as a financial lender.

I saw many people get mistreated by banks when they needed financial assistance. It absolutely disgusted me at how they were belittled whenever they needed help or were late on their payments. I wanted to make a difference in the lives of people that needed help. I would focus on developing myself as a more presentable person that could walk with people as they overcome their financial obstacles. I feel as if I have accomplished this so far.

How does your role positively impact others?

As mentioned previously, I am able to make a positive impact in people’s lives by providing them with financial services. I always make sure to reach out to my clients from an altruistic approach to ensure that they get the highest quality of financial services. I want to make people feel comfortable to approach us whenever they need to get a loan. Fortunately, we have built such an incredible community here in our business. We have plenty of repeat customers who know us by name and always come back for help. I am always happy to talk through financial problems with people and even give them advice that can change their lives. This is how we are making a difference in people’s lives every single day.

What are your hobbies?

I absolutely love model trains. I grew up playing with trains ever since I was very young. My father had a train set that we would play with regularly. It was a very engaging activity to be able to maintain and build upon that train playset. I have been able to expand upon the playset that I had as a child and get some new models of my own. I have gotten my kids into model trains and they absolutely love it.

Could you briefly expound on what your business does?

We provide people with various financial services here at PersonalLoanGuarantee. Our customers can always find alternative funding solutions for their financial needs. Most people are financially approved when they choose to work with us. We focus on providing loans to people that need them and have different options depending on your needs. We have to ensure that our clients are eighteen years or older before they choose to apply for a loan. Fixed income is acceptable and credit rating approvals are negotiable.

Are there any other business-related ventures that you’re working on that we can look forward to?

We are looking forward to opening new branches around our city. We have dozens of fantastic ideas that we want to provide for our community. However, we are slowly working towards getting these branches open in a timely manner. It has taken us many years to get to this point. However, it has been absolutely worth the effort.

What would you advise readers and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start a business?

I have plenty of things to say to new entrepreneurs who want to take their livelihood into their own hands. The most important thing that an entrepreneur can do is to remain persistent. There will be times that you feel like what you are doing doesn’t matter. There may be times when you want to quit what you are doing and work a normal job just like everyone else. However, you have to remember that you started this journey for a reason. Quitting would be a major disservice to your abilities.

You have to remember that it takes many years in order to get your business where you want it to be. There will be many sleepless nights where you will end up sacrificing your personal needs for your business. However, everything will come together if you continue working towards your goal. Rome was not built in a day and neither was my business. It took years of hard work and sacrifice in order to make it work. All entrepreneurs must remain persistent if they wish to accomplish anything in this life.

17
Oct
2019

Bill Scuorzo

categories: Interview

Bill Scuorzo is the man at the helm of BCG Advisors. He has been the company President and CEO since its formation in 1999. The business provides employee benefits, human resource and commercial insurance services to a wide range of corporate clients. The clients range from small and mid-size businesses to non-profit organizations. Two decades since its establishment, BCG Advisors ranks as one of the fastest growing commercial insurance and employee benefits brokerage firms in the vast East coast region. Bill’s leadership style is exemplified by utmost dedication, strong carrier relationships and unsullied industry knowledge.

In his push to provide cost-effective insurance solutions, BCG Advisors has established three core divisions, the Commercial Risk Management, Personal Line and Employee Benefits/Human Resources divisions. The Commercial Risk Management Division offers property and casualty insurance to commercial clients. The Personal Lines Division came into stream in 2011 and offers a string of personal insurance solutions, including life, home, disability and automotive coverage. Bill Scuorzo has a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Scranton. He is a proud father of two children and lives in the small town of Little Silver, NJ.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in this field?

When I graduated from the University of Scranton with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, I knew my path to success was already charted. I decided to go into the field of sales for a national insurance carrier. I instantly loved sales and helping others with quality products and services. While working for this major insurance carrier I saw that brokers and consultants I was working with were not providing the level and service that should be provided. I wanted to bring the same type of services global consulting houses were providing their Fortune 500 clients to the small business marketplace. I established BCG Advisors in 1999 with the vision of providing affordable, germane healthcare solutions.

How does your role positively impact others?

Working as the President and CEO of a fast-growing insurance agency can be grueling. BCG Advisors offers extensive insurance solutions targeting corporate clients, from small to midsize companies and not-for-profit organizations. Besides maintaining a positive outlook, I have instituted a robust engagement strategy to create a positive work environment. The engagement encompasses executive roundtable meetings and open-door policy.

Being an experienced manager working in the service industry, the open-door policy is a crucial communication strategy that encourages employees to share ideas and get a sense of belonging. My roundtable meetings provide a perfect opportunity to engage workers and strengthen the cultural fabric of the company. The discussions often revolve around new client updates; reviews of company transitions and financials and open, Q&A sit-ups.

What are your hobbies?

I am big fan of sports and I especially enjoy golfing, fishing, skiing and surfing. It is interesting to know that golfing and fishing go hand in hand as both are relaxing and can be organized as solo or group events. Surfing is quite popular in the area I live in and I have been surfing for about 35 years. Skiing is my thrill sport!

Could you briefly expand upon what your business does?

BCG Advisors stands out today as a trusted insurance advisor for small to mid sized businesses and non-profit organizations. We provide industry leading insurance brokerage services by a team of experienced professionals. The business has three service divisions; Employee Benefits/Human Resources, Personal Lines and Commercial Insurance and Risk Management. These divisions were established between 2009 and 2012 to serve our clients efficiently.

Are there any other business-related ventures that you’re working on that we can look forward to?

Speaking in general terms, I currently in the start-up phase of launching a payroll company for small businesses. I see lots of opportunities in this area, especially in the servicing of payroll clients. One thing I like about the idea of a payroll company is that there are a lot of synergies with the insurance and employee benefits business which we will be able to take advantage of.

Myself and another partner already have the business plan completed and are in the process of assembling the management team to take our vision forward.

Can you give our readers any advice on starting their own business?

The business support service industry is quite crowded. To stand out from the field, you need to define your business model, solutions to problems, team, customer and competition. A lot of effort must also be put on marketing and growing the sales channels. Once you have the solutions to meaningful problems, you need to ensure perfect execution. I will emphasize this point by saying that having a good business idea but with bad execution will always lead to failure.

15
Oct
2019

Dr. Thomas Taylor

categories: Interview

Many people oftentimes struggle with obesity. They live a sedentary lifestyle and do not take care of themselves. It is very easy to fall into this trap and find yourself living an uncomfortable life. While there are many weight loss solutions available to us, most of them fail due to the fact that they lack an effective approach. However, individuals like Dr. Thomas Taylor have spent their entire lives perfecting various weight loss procedures. Based in Houston, Texas, Dr. Thomas Taylor focuses on bariatric surgery. It is an alternative weight loss solution that will help remove unwanted fat from your body by shrinking the stomach. Dr. Taylor works closely with his patients to ensure that they receive the care that they need in order to get the body they want.

Dr. Taylor has written dozens of books over the years. One of his most popular books is “Overcoming Obesity”. This book has positively impacted countless people over the years and has enabled them to take their health into their own hands. Bariatric surgery is not a quick fix solution. It simply gives people a head-start when it comes to losing weight. Dr. Taylor coaches his patients on the importance of practicing healthy habits after surgery. Dr. Taylor is a board member of IASIS and the American Diabetic Association and continues to make positive strides in the health industry.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in this field?

Ever since I was a child, I wanted to help people improve their lives. No other career field truly captured my interest like the medical field did. The medical field was a natural fit for me, and I wanted to continue my medical education. However, I did not have a specific path in the medical industry that jumped out at me in the beginning. I was unsure about how I could positively impact people who needed help. One of the most obvious areas of expertise that I could have pursued was trauma. However, ultimately, that was not my calling.

I wanted to help people in the long term by providing them with services that could improve their current state. Bariatric surgery was the answer that I had been looking for. I knew that I could put my focus on this area and help people get rid of unwanted weight. Being a bariatric surgeon allows me to help people get a jumpstart on their weight loss journey.

How does your role positively impact others?

As mentioned before, I give people a head start on their weight loss journey. Keeping weight off is difficult for many people. Genetics is a major factor when it comes to weight. Some people simply do not have the optimal genes that can help them keep their weight under control. Bariatric surgery allows me to provide people with a procedure that can remove fat from unwanted areas and allow them to have a better image of themselves. People do not realize how important confidence is. It can help you live your best life and become a better person. These factors help me provide people with a service that propels them forward on their health journey.

I also provide people with health tips that keep their weight at bay. Dieting, exercising, and good mental habits are key to ensure that you do not relapse and gain the weight back.

What are your hobbies?

I like to play as much as I work. I am constantly working around the clock to make a positive impact on my clients’ lives. This means that I am working doubly hard to take care of myself in my time off. One of my favorite hobbies is to play video games. It was one of my favorite past-times when I was in college. Video games have helped me become a better person by improving my problem-solving skills and emotion control.

You have to keep a sharp wit if you wish to work in the medical industry. Fortunately, video games are more than just a hobby. They provide me with skills that I can use effectively in my work.

Could you briefly expound on what your business does?

I provide people with weight loss solutions that can help improve their health. Bariatric surgery focuses on shrinking the stomach so that you will not have such a large appetite. This will help keep your appetite under control and prevent you from overeating. This is a great way to naturally lose weight and begin improving your figure. Many of our clients begin to see immediate results after they receive their procedure.

Are there any other business-related ventures that you’re working on that we can look forward to?

I have been writing books for a very long time. It is one of my favorite passions outside of the medical field. I am currently working on writing another book that talks about my experiences in the medical field. One of the most important things that I wish to get across to people is that doctors truly do care about their patients. Trusting your physician is crucial for a patient. It helps create a strong relationship that will help you overcome any medical obstacle with the help of a medical professional.

What would you advise readers and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start a business?

I would recommend that you work on your mental state of mind before you start a business. While this sounds a bit extreme, running a business can end up burning you out before you can even realize it. Making sure that you are in a good state of mind before you start a business will help you run it for much longer. Always read business-related material if you wish to improve your skillset. Always be open to learning and opportunities will continue to present themselves to you.

14
Aug
2019

Dr. Jan McBarron

categories: Interview

A career physician, celebrated author and upstanding mentor are the impressions you get when reading about Dr. Jan McBarron. She grew up in a modest household in a suburb of Philadelphia, the third of four children in a family where education ended with high school. At the age of 16 she volunteered in a hospital and medicine became her passion. She became a registered nurse then worked night shift to earn a Bachelor of Science in Biology which paved the road to medical school. She graduated with a Doctor of Medicine from Drexel University in 1984 and completed a Medical-Surgical Internship. She and her husband Duke Liberatore, moved to Georgia where he opened the first of what ultimately grew into a successful chain of health food stores and she spent 30 years in private practice specializing in Medical Bariatrics, non-surgical weight loss. She is a recognized author, has appeared on countless radio and television shows, and taught as a Professor in Nutrition at Columbus State University.

Jan McBarron has received countless awards including the Girls Scouts Woman of Achievement, Most Distinguished Alumni for Entrepreneurship from Drexel University, and Clinician of the Year from the Natural Products Association. She has empowered people to take responsibility for their own health and transformed the lives of her patients as well as thousands nationwide. For twenty years, she and her husband Duke Liberatore, broadcast their nationally syndicated, health talk radio program, Duke and The Doctor. The show was repeatedly ranked in the Top 100 Best Talk Shows in the nation by Talkers Magazine.

In 2014, Duke sold the stores and Duke and The Doctor decided to retire from the show. Recently upon the death of her mother, Doc closed her private medical practice in order to realize another life goal of living in Nevada. Together, they enjoy the outdoors, hiking, biking, weightlifting and traveling.

Dr. Jan McBarron is also a widely sought after public speaker and is regularly invited in different public forums to share her expertise in areas including bariatric medicine, health, nutrition and fitness. In addition, she continues her work as an author and philanthropic work thru the Dr. Jan McBarron Scholarship initiative.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in this field?

Caring for others has always been my passion. Having started my medical career in nursing, I was driven for more education in order to help patients even more. This thirst for knowledge motivated me to obtain two doctorate degrees. First, I received an MD, Medical Doctor from Drexel and then studied holistic, natural medicine to receive an ND, Naturopathic Degree from Clayton College.

How does your role positively impact others?

Most people approach health and medical issues with an “either/or” approach; either they go to a Medical Doctor for drugs, surgery and radiation, or they go to a Naturopathic Doctor for vitamins, herbs and lifestyle. I espouse to a complimentary approach and take the best of both. Patients appreciate a comprehensive, individualized treatment plan. The work doctor means to teach, it should not mean “to dictate”. I see many of my colleagues treat patients with the attitude “it’s my way or the highway”. Patients should ask questions because they respond better with information.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy traveling, being outdoors, hiking, biking and exercise in general. Besides reducing stress, these activities play an important role in preparing the mind and body for new challenges. Traveling provides me the opportunity to go new places, meet interesting people and learn new things. Currently I am learning two new languages. For fitness, I normally exercise by lifting weights in the gym, jogging and just going outside for a walk.

Could you briefly expound on what your business does?

For over 30 years, I saw patients one on one in private practice. When I started, less than 25 %of Americans were overweight or obese. Now, over 70% are. Obesity is no longer just a U.S. problem, its worldwide. With the advances in the social media and the internet I am now able to address many more people at once than I ever could in private practice. The need is greater and the avenue for helping more people is wider as well. Most people do not understand obesity. It’s a medical disease, it’s not just cosmetic. It is not a function of lack of discipline or willpower. It’s not about being the biggest person in the room, it’s being 30 pounds or more overweight for your height. It’s about Insulin Resistance, Metabolic Syndrome, Diabetes, Heart Disease, Cancer and more.

Are there any other business-related ventures that you’re working on that we can look forward to?

Although trained in the sciences, in order to continue helping people, I must embrace the ever-changing world of the internet. I plan to release a Mobile App developed with the support of the iBuildApp. The App will be valuable in our marketing and sensitization efforts. The App provides crucial information to users like bariatric procedures; what patients can expect; and answers to frequently asked questions. Users can also use the App to interact with our staff through a live chat service and social media accounts. I am also working on a medical podcast that I will be unveiling sometime this year. I have been doing some test runs using an iTunes account. The target audience will be the medical fraternity and the general public.

What would you advise readers and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start a business?

There is no one fits all formula for guaranteeing business success. However, cost is a fundamental factor that can make or break the dream of owning a successful business. My advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to analyze business expenses in its entirety to ensure success goes beyond the launching phase. The cost analysis should factor elements like licensing, location, supplies, rent and marketing. To implement these issues exhaustively you need a good financial plan and execution strategy.

06
Aug
2019

Lindsay Guion

categories: Interview

Music is something that can invoke incredible emotions in us. We can experience a mood swing unlike any other depending on the track that is played. The world could always use more musicians in it. However, today’s musicians have to adapt to new forms of technology in order to get their music out to the world. Fortunately, Lindsay Guion has adapted to this new business model and has found a way to get his music out into the world. GMUSIC GROUP is a company that he helped form that provides music for individuals in media production. He has worked for some of the most popular companies in the entertainment industry and is showing no signs of stopping anytime soon.

Lindsay Guion incorporates integrity into everything that he does. He believes that he is truly helping people with their musical needs whenever he provides them with the assets they require. Although GMUSIC GROUP hasn’t been around for long, their impact on the industry can be felt everywhere. Let’s learn more about the man behind the company and how his mind works.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in this field?

I always knew that I was going to be a working musician one day. It was an intuition that I couldn’t ignore when I was younger. I have been practicing music since I was very little. My parents enrolled me in a music program, and I knew that this was it for me. However, I had many people tell me that I would never make it professionally. This discouraged me at first. Fortunately, I pushed through and eventually made it into the industry that I am in now. Music is my absolute passion in life. I hope that my work can inspire others to follow their dreams.

How does your role positively impact others?

People in production companies are always looking for individuals that have incredible musical talents. While I don’t think I’m the best there is out there, I firmly believe that the music that I am providing them is helping them achieve their goals. Music has the ability to inspire people and invoke emotions in them. Whether it is a small jingle for a company or a big score for a movie, music is necessary for advertising purposes.

What are your hobbies?

I am a big fan of sports. I feel that sports can be considered the great unifier. It brings people together of all different backgrounds and lets them rally together for a singular cause. I think it’s absolutely incredible. I am a big Rockets fan. I am constantly watching their games and rooting for my favorite players.

Can you tell us a little more about your business?

As mentioned previously, we create music for large media companies and other high-profile individuals. We want to make sure that everyone gets the music that they need when they are creating projects. However, we take a more technological approach to solving problems. Technology is constantly evolving, and we have to find ways to utilize these innovations into our business. This mindset is what has led GUION PARTNERS to success. I suggest that other companies look to adopt technology into their business if they wish to succeed.

Any other business-related projects that you’re working on now that we should look forward to?

I am always working on different kinds of music. I am currently working on a personal project that I hope will be ready to share with the world in a year’s time. It is a mixture of some of my favorite genres. It’ll most certainly be something out of this world.

Can you give our readers any advice on starting their own business?

The most important thing that anyone can do before starting their own business is to decide if they truly want to do it. Many people start their own business because they want money. While money is important, you will face hardships at times that money cannot alleviate. Your passion has to be what drives you further. Take some time to reflect on what you want to do. Ask yourself dozens of questions until you come to the conclusion that your idea is truly worth your time. However, I firmly believe that you already know the answer. The key to success is to be honest with yourself in the beginning. Not being honest with yourself will only waste your time.

29
Jul
2019

Issac Qureshi

categories: Interview

Issac Qureshi is an international wealth management and taxation professional. With contacts in the United States, the Middle East, the United Kingdom, and Europe, he has a broad skill set and a unique ability to help his clients navigate the rough waters of taxation.

Issac Qureshi was educated at Liverpool University where he gained a BA with honors in Social & Economic History. He pursued graduate work at the Manchester University Institute of Marketing and the London School of Economics and Political Science. He also received a Master of Laws degree in International and Commercial Trust Law from UCL. The depth of his educational background means that he is able to handle clients’ concerns with expertise.

Qureshi is the Founder of Ogilvy & Haart. His company helps corporate and individual clients handle their tax obligations across a number of countries. His company also deals with the concerns of wealth management and applies both new and time-honored techniques.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in the field in which you currently work?

Economics may not seem exciting to many people, but I have always been fascinated with it. Ever since I was a young boy, I have wondered about the movement of money and goods and how they can be tracked and predicted using economic theory. As I spent a great deal of time at university, I was able to hone my interests.

My interest in taxation began when I was at university. International tax laws are highly complex, and it presented a great opportunity for me to learn. I find that I am able to break down tax laws and explain them to my clients, which makes me a valuable resource.

In what way does your professional role make it possible for you to have a positive impact on others?

My staff and I help to make life easier for businesses around the world. Dealing with taxation can be a great headache, and it is important for these businesses to receive help from an expert. My wealth management talents also help people preserve their estates and make it possible for them to hand a significant amount of money down to their families. Making sure that these clients have advantages in the market means that they will have more prosperous lives.

Can you give our readers any advice about starting their own business?

I started Ogilvy & Haart with a few close colleagues. It was more of an undertaking than I originally thought it would be. The most important thing about starting a new business is hiring the right people. If your employees are not dedicated to your mission, they will hold your company back. Make sure that all of your employees understand and are committed to the aims of your business. If they are not, or if they treat your office as a place to sit for eight hours a day and do nothing, you need to let them go.

I would also advise beginning business owners to be extremely careful with their tax obligations. Making mistakes on your taxes can lead to difficult situations including fines. There is no excuse for tax mistakes. You can’t plead ignorance and get away with it. Be sure that you are working with a qualified tax professional. Check this person’s references to make sure that they are able to handle your specific situation. If you are doing business in more than one country, tax provisions can be even more complex.

What do you do for recreation?

For recreation, I enjoy going to museums and fine dining. I enjoy the refined atmosphere of large cities. I also spend time taking care of my physical health. I like to bicycle, and I spend time exploring the city streets and back roads. When I am away from home, as I often am, I use the hotel’s gym and their stationary bicycles. I also enjoy swimming. I believe that regular exercise is a key to good physical and mental health.

Is there an Australian you admire or who has had a profound influence on you personally or professionally? Explain. While he has since become a naturalized American citizen, I greatly admire Rupert Murdoch. He began his career in Australia and became a media titan. He built his company from nothing and introduced many exciting innovations in the media landscape. He purchased many other successful enterprises such as 21st Century Fox and the Wall Street Journal. He has made a lasting impact on the world.

04
Jul
2019

Caitlin Craig Lawrence

categories: Interview

In a world where words take the backseat during introductions, first impressions do all the talking, the bond between customer and clothing is strictly physical, and Caitlin Craig Lawrence is redefining fashion and clothing as something much more than physical garments for the human body. She is redefining fashion as an expression of the soul and a means of connection.

Born in Japan to a family that was always on the move, her father’s job meant they were never in one place for too long, till finally her father retired and they settled in Kansas. Her sense of sojourn is reflected in her pieces through bold colors and striking fabric choices. Lawrence attended the Bauder College in Georgia after which she moved back to Kansas where she set up her business. A woman of few words, the designer is famous for her quiet demeanor and gentle manners in an industry synonymous with flagrant tempers. Caitlin Craig Lawrence is methodically changing our understanding of fashion and style.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in this field?

I was born in Japan as the youngest of four children, the age gap between my siblings and I was at least ten years making communication difficult; there were hardly any topics that brought us together.

My family moved around a lot so putting down roots anywhere was also tricky, my brothers wanted to be like my dad, my sister wanted to be like mom, everyone seemed to have their own thing. The only thing I had was time and a lot of it. So, I started exploring. I would rummage the entire house looking for something to do, that’s when I started reading my mom’s wedding magazines, studying every page religiously, analyzing the colors and the intricate cuts of all the pieces. That was the only thing that seemed to make me happy, and that’s where this journey began, from then till now, nothing makes me as happy and fulfilled as fashion.

How does your role positively impact others?

My dad retired, and my family settled in Kansas close to my godparents. Luckily for me, my godmother was a prolific seamstress. I invested a lot of my time in fashion magazines and designing, my head was always bursting with new ideas, and I would run to my godmother with them. I started spending a lot of time with her, and she taught me the mechanics of design. After graduation, I attended Bauder College before moving back to Kansas to start up my business. Her influence on me as a young child with a growing passion helped me forge my path, before college, she was my first instructor. My brand is focused on creating opportunities for people; the ones I work with directly and for customers. We are focused on creating pieces that provide a sense of fulfillment, you wear one of the pieces and you feel confident and in charge.

What are your hobbies?

I have been working on a new collection which has been taking a lot of my time, but whenever I am chanced, I like to spend some of my time with animals. I volunteer at animal shelters. Dogs are such incredible and thoughtful animals.

Can you tell us a little more about this collection?

If we asked three people to tell us a word that comes to mind when they see a plant, at least one person would say “green” or “life.” Plants are probably the most unassuming form of life, yet we acknowledge their existence. That’s what my collection is all about, two significant colors that represent crucial aspects of our existence. Yellow (Positivity) and green (Life). The collection is an ode to human existence and how seemingly insignificant items impact our lives.

Any other collections we should look forward to?

I am also working on a special project, a canine collection reflecting my love for dogs. I can’t wait to share that with the world. My brand is all about positivity, so I want that to be emphasized in all the collections we release.

Can you give our readers any advice on starting their own business?

Honestly, I don’t think I’m in a position to dish out advice just yet. I’m still very new in this industry, but a few things I’ve come to understand are that it’s essential to build a brand and a community. You can’t do everything, and you shouldn’t do everything. find your niche and build a community.

27
Jun
2019

Johnson Nguyen

categories: Interview

Johnson Nguyen, a native of Vancouver, Canada, is a Marketing genius dissecting the anatomy of attention, and the extent to which digital culture can be manipulated to create content that resonates with people.

Nguyen obtained a bachelor’s degree in Digital Culture from the prestigious Kings College in England, after which he moved back to Vancouver, setting up an agency that operates globally with a team of 15. Johnson Nguyen developed a digital agency specializing in online culture, his company has been able to utilize digital platforms in achieving all client goals.

He is famous for his analogy on the brain and how it processes data and information; every second, the brain is receiving data at the speed of sound, the eyes alone capture almost a billion images per second, the ears do the same sending it all to the brain, processing what we retain and otherwise. The pool is huge, so the retention capacity is open only to information that is necessary or otherwise DIFFERENT.

What inspired your decision to leave Canada and opt instead for England?

From a very young age, my family instilled specific values in me, the cost of hard work, pursuing one’s dreams, and seeing beyond what lies directly in front of you. My father would often say he was only interested in the things he couldn’t see. There was an entire world filled with possibilities and wonders outside the walls of Vancouver, so my family and I would travel a lot, trying to see the things different from what we were accustomed to, it was during one of these trips I fell in love with England and chose to study there. I think these values are embedded in the core of my personality and what I do, my agency strives always to do the things people do not talk about, the things you would ordinarily not notice. Often, these are the strategies that outlive the trends and end up viral.

Why Digital Culture?

We are currently existing in a world where some people cannot fathom what it means to not have internet, without a doubt, the growth and increasing accessibility of the Internet have opened up a new world of possibilities. The digital phenomenon has evolved from a convenience into a culture, a way of life, and I do not just mean the internet, I mean everything. The world is being digitalized, and it’s not stopping anytime soon, the possibilities are endless, I didn’t want to be just another witness of the culture that was brewing, I wanted to be a part of it, I needed to be. Digital Culture is a marriage of two things I’m passionate about, culture and the digitalization of the world.

How do you come up with good ideas?

That’s a tough one because I haven’t exactly found the answer to that, it’s easy to come up with ideas, but good ideas, those are an entirely different ball game. My thoughts are greatly influenced by my desire for the things I can’t see, and those aren’t easy to come by. I do a lot of thinking and a lot of reading, I’m inspired by what people have done in the past, so there’s also a lot of research that goes into everything we do as an agency. Honestly, I would say good ideas are a result of hard work and a relentless search.

What else are you doing when you’re not whipping up new marketing strategies?

I love traveling, that’s something I’ve always loved, so whenever I have the opportunity to see something new, I always try to take advantage of it. My wife and I have been to some incredible places so far, and we look forward to conquering new sights. Other than that, I do a lot of hiking, it helps me keep fit, and the scenery is also amazing.

What advice can you give to upcoming business owners?

When people think of entrepreneurship, I think they imagine waking up at any time of the day, staggering from bed to the bathroom and showing up to a room filled with hardworking people waiting on you to dish out your brilliance. That never even happens in movies; neither does it in real life.

Sometimes I do not know what I’m doing, but I go ahead regardless because that’s the only way for me. It’s a lot of sacrifices, guts, hard work, tough decision making, and navigating stormy waters. So, if you’re reading this and you’re trying to start your own business, there’s never been a better time than right now, everything you want, every single thing, is possible, you need to start.

19
Jun
2019

Dr. David Hepburn

categories: Interview

Dr. David Hepburn is a sports physician with ties to the Canadian Junior National Rugby team. He is also connected to a few different hockey teams that employed him to be the main trainer who takes care of the athletes’ health. Prior to this, he got his doctorate’s degree in 1986 from the University of Ottawa. This marked the beginning of a very unique career path that subsequently led to the military where Dr. David Hepburn helped during the Persian Gulf War. Nowadays, besides working with professional athletes and countless long-term patients, he also does a lot of relevant research on the potential uses of medical cannabis. In the end, he is known for going as far as the Olympics to be one of the main physicians during the 1996 games.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in the field in which you currently work?

I wanted to become a doctor since I was very young. It was a profession that intrigued me as I thought that having the ability to help others was something incomprehensibly wonderful. Once I reached high school, I started taking some classes on natural sciences and noticed that my performance there was outstanding even when I was not applying myself completely. This made me realize that I am understanding the material extremely well because it interests me a lot. So, it made sense to do something that would be related to the field of medicine as this area obviously piqued my curiosity. I am proud to say that making this decision was one of the best things that I have ever done.

In what way does your professional role make it possible for you to have a positive impact on others?

Well, I am a doctor who spends most of his days working with patients. This is probably the best way to have a positive impact on others since my treatments are quite literally the reason why many people feel better. Regardless, I do want to give credit to a lot of my patients who are dedicated enough to go through complex procedures with me. Absent their persistence, my diagnoses would have absolutely no impact and the treatment suggestions would be futile.

Can you give our readers any advice about starting their own business?

You should start a business in a niche market that you are very passionate about. For example, although I am somehow extremely talented at certain types of service-based entrepreneurial ventures, I would never consider doing that full-time. The reason why is that I am much more interested in helping people. So, the fact that I could earn more as a sole proprietor who offers a unique service does not matter. What is important is the fact that my current job is something that I am extremely passionate about. Due to this, I seldom even feel like I am going to work and have no issues with spending north of 10-12 hours trying to find ways to treat patients.

What do you do for recreation?

I try to stay physically active by taking long walks or doing some very light jogging. I have given up hard workouts with resistance exercises because they do not make me feel as good as they used to. This is mostly because I spend a lot of my time in the office which makes for a stark contrast. So, trying to suddenly shock muscles back into shape with difficult training was causing me a lot of problems with injuries. Therefore, I simply chose to do something that will allow me to remain active enough to where my physical health is kept in check without exposing my body to the unwarranted risk of potential injury.

Is there an Australian you admire or who has had a profound influence on you personally or professionally? Explain.

There is. In fact, there are three of them that are definitely worthy of mention. The first one is Basil Hetzel. Unfortunately, the world lost Mr. Hetzel’s brilliant mind in 2017. He was one of the main Australian researchers who made incredible breakthroughs in the field of treating iodine deficiency. The next one is a career businessman with decades of success, Chris Corrigan. He used to be the managing director of the renowned Patrick Corporation until 2006. His approach to business definitely taught me a lot about professionalism and long-term persistence when it comes to tough projects. Finally, I have to mention Bob Hawke who used to be Australia’s Prime Minister. He is famous for having the highest approval rating in the country ever! Obviously, he achieved this by being an outstanding politician and conveying many important lessons on leadership.

07
Jun
2019

Howard Wilner

categories: Interview

Howard Wilner is a College graduate who has a long-lasting career as a successful leader within the automotive industry. He currently serves as the president of a large company called Automax Pre-Owned. And has been president of New England Automax Inc since 1989, he was able to accomplish incredible boosts in sales volume, productivity, and overall efficiency. Howard Wilner is further very knowledgeable about the business of late-model foreign and domestic vehicles. In fact, it was his understanding of the market that helped him navigate it so fruitfully.

In what city/state was your first company located and approximately what year did you buy it?

The very first job that I ever held was in Boston, Massachusetts in the food and beverage industry. Since I was attending school in the area, it seemed very convenient and I decided to take it to help with my expenditures. Working as a cook and then a bartender, I stayed in the restaurant field throughout his college years, before entering into sales.

What was your working situation prior to starting with that company?

Since it was my first job, I did not really have much professional background prior to it. I did spend some time at the college where I was taking my courses. This, however, was the extent of my knowledge about the real world as I was still learning how to navigate the new stage of my life. Fortunately, starting my new job enabled me to see how people deal with stress and pressure. Getting to experience that was extremely beneficial as it allowed me to grow and develop as a reliable worker.

More importantly, my lack of experience was quickly compensated by my willingness to learn and take advantage of the resources around me. So, I was able to quickly catch up to productivity levels of those who have been working much longer than me.

What motivated you to accept your first job?

Although financial well-being was my primary reason, I had a lot of other incentives to start working. One of them revolved around getting some professional experience that I can put on my resume. That way, I would be in a better position to find a job once I completed my degree. Also, working was an outstanding way to build my network and get to know people who might be instrumental to my further employment.

In other words, I saw this as an opportunity to establish invaluable connections with professionals who know how to navigate the job market. Lastly, I wanted to challenge myself beyond my course load as I was doing very well in my classes. So, it seemed that finding something else to keep me busy was a rather natural step towards maturity and growth.

How did you go about handling your new role?

I got a lot better at planning and making my schedules. Whenever you start a new job, you have to adapt to those around you as you are the new person in the group. In other words, it is unrealistic to expect that anyone will pay much attention to what is going on in your private life. So, you have to accept that your first few months will be spent making small sacrifices so that everything would work out well. I also used this time as an opportunity to get better at multitasking.

For instance, I was constantly juggling work with my own school and personal life. At first, it was quite hectic, and I thought that I will never be able to master it. As I got settled in, however, things got much easier and coming up with on-the-go plans became second nature.

Were you thinking of it as a temporary or as a long-term position?

It was definitely temporary. I actually do not believe that any college student wants to stick with the first job that they find. Nevertheless, I still treated this as my career employment. In translation, I always met and exceed the expectations as I believed that being average was mediocre.

What are the three things that you liked most about the job?

It was very flexible, my boss was incredibly understanding, and the pay was decent. In fact, I think that those three requirements can be used to gauge how good some job opening is. After all, good hours, fair management, and a decent salary are three of the most crucial factors of every job. Naturally, as one gets higher in their career, they will start figuring out what other things they deem important. Regardless, one must always be reasonable with their expectations.