March 17, 2025 • 28 mins
The birth of his daughter led Matt to rethink his purpose - ultimately inspiring him to launch Ideas Collide. In our conversation, he shares invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and the most important lesson he’s learned in life. We dive into his sources of inspiration for continuous innovation, his daily habits, and how he strives for work-life harmony. Plus, don’t miss his insights on mentorship - how mentees can truly maximize the relationship and embrace self-empowerment.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:02):
Greetings, I'm David Kong, thefounder and principal of It's
Personal Stories, a hospitalitypodcast.
We are a nonprofit organizationdedicated to empowering personal
success.
Today, I'm delighted to welcomeMatt Clyde.
He is the president and chiefstrategist.
of Ideas Collide.
Ideas Collide is a globalmarketing agency, full service
(00:25):
agency, and they boast manyFortune 500 accounts as their
clients.
I'm delighted to welcome you,Matt.
Thanks for having me.
It's great to see you andexcited to have a conversation
today.
Welcome again.
Let's start with the founding ofIdeas Collide.
I read on LinkedIn that you wereworking a steady corporate job,
(00:45):
but then you lost purpose.
You started Ideas Collide.
Tell us what went on in yourmind at that time and how did
you find the courage andinspiration to take on the
challenge?
Uh, the rest of finding, findingyour own company.
Yeah.
My daughter had just been born.
I had this very close attachmentto a new child and you know what
(01:06):
that's like.
You have grandchildren, childrenof your own.
And then I was in the grind ofone career and left that
industry to start a brand newjob.
And there was just so muchtransition happening in my
personal life that it was hardto balance the demand of the
corporate needs and yourcorporate stakeholders, and then
(01:27):
the most important people inyour life, your family.
And so I was trying to find.
a balance to that.
And I'm one that doesn't want tounderserve anything, my family,
nor my corporate job.
And so I felt like I had to findbalance in one and took a leap
by going and saying, I think Ican continue to have success in
(01:50):
my career.
By maybe trying to apply somethings I've learned along the
way and doing them just a littlebit differently and see what
that would attract in terms ofhow I approach marketing and how
I approached building a team ina business.
I read a statement that said, ifyou don't love your work every
day, then you can't love yourlife.
And I was feeling this anxietyof leaving.
(02:13):
My family behind so much was onthe road a lot and I just felt
like I needed to re center andrefigure my career in line with
where I really wanted to be on adaily basis.
And so that's where I reallydecided to launch my own
initiative.
That's quite a big risk that youtook on, especially with your
family.
No real clients.
(02:34):
I didn't have a lot backing me.
I was just like some ambitionand a really strong network of
people.
So yeah, it was a big leap andnot a lot of safety net there.
Yeah.
We're going to talk aboutnetworking in just a minute, but
I would like to find out fromyou whether you've ever.
Doubted your decision and haveyou ever had any regrets?
(02:55):
And if so, how did you overcomethem?
Yeah, I wouldn't say doubt.
I don't like to operate withdoubt, but it definitely moments
of analysis of is this the rightcalculated risk?
Definitely been through that andhave to balance the data with
(03:16):
maybe some gut instincts toguide you along the way to, to
make the right decision.
I've been through, I've beenthrough.
A lot of my career is you haveas well.
And many others, I worked incorporate America, worked in the
travel and airline industry onnine 11 work through that, and
then thought that was verydisruptive and then went through
(03:37):
the great recession.
And that's when I probably had alot of doubt in running my own
business.
Cause I was about two years,three years in when.
The Great Recession hit, andthat was a lot of risk and a lot
of challenges that feltoverwhelming at the time.
And how do you see through allthat disruption and change?
And then we went through COVIDand the disruption and changes
(03:59):
of that and how thatreconfigured the way we work and
engage with our team and ourbusiness and our clients.
So I think it was overcoming.
When those big obstacles hityou, I think you learn from each
one and everyone feels, wow, howdo we see through this?
But I think what it reminds meof over and over again is that
(04:21):
human nature is we cometogether, we figure it out and
we move forward.
And that's the power too ofbeing an entrepreneur is you can
have those options and choicesto find different paths to make
you find the right solutionthat's going to work for your
business and your.
Your organization.
So true.
And kudos to you.
You've built a strong teamaround you, and no doubt they
(04:44):
will have tremendous support toyou when you will go through the
hardship.
But on that subject, how do youfind the strength and courage to
prevail when things are sochallenging?
And whether it's 9 11 or theGreat Recession or COVID, but
they are also setbacks anddisappointments, that poses
(05:04):
challenges.
How do you find the strength andcourage to prevail?
I think surrounding yourselfwith great people is one part of
that because they are greatsounding boards, have great
mentors, have great coaches, andthey have a great executive.
And across the Talent of theteam, people that, uh, I can
talk to and be honest with andthey can be honest back and that
(05:26):
helps you find the courage andwhere you need to show up.
I, I do take very personally theresponsibilities I hold for my
clients and for my team.
And so it pushes me to moveforward even when.
And you might not feel thatmoment you can do it, but you
have to just be resilient andshow up because people depend on
(05:48):
that.
People, whether it's a clientwho's counting on you to come
through with, with work or ateam member who's counting on,
you know, that for theirlivelihood or for their career
and their ambitions.
Uh, I take that very personallyto, to show up and prevail.
So it's probably an innerstrength of.
(06:08):
Experience and then really greatsounding boards to help move
forward.
So true.
A lot of great leaders that I'veinterviewed about the same
topic.
I talk about that innerstrength.
They feel a need to be strong inorder to demonstrate the
strength and courage to otherpeople to inspire them.
What advice would you give toaspiring entrepreneurs who find
(06:32):
it difficult to let go of thefamiliar and venture into the
unknown?
How do they find the confidenceto do?
Aside from finding the rightpeople to be that strength and
system, people that aren'tafraid to Give you really good
feedback.
You need people to help behonest and direct.
And we call it candor with care,caring enough to get challenged
(06:54):
you on something.
So I think that's one piece ofit, as I just spoke to.
I think the other piece of thatis finding that confidence is
probably.
In the belief of what you'redoing and knowing it can make a
difference and knowing that youhave a solution.
If doubt is one thing and seeingthrough that is another, but I
(07:17):
think it goes back to that innerKnowledge of I know what we can
do this.
You're going to have obstaclesand roadblocks every day.
That's never going to go away inany type of business.
It's how you navigate those andhow you respond to those.
And that's where you got to drawinto your vision.
And if your vision is reallyclear.
(07:38):
And your path to get there isclear, you can overcome those.
And that's where I would giveadvice to new entrepreneurs is
be clear on your vision, bereally clear on your purpose,
and be resilient in what you'retrying to define and build with
great people around you, becausethat's going to carry you
through all those obstacles andhelp you see through the
challenges.
(07:59):
And that will help you riseabove those.
Those big days where there is agiant roadblock and you'll
figure it out because you'regonna have the great right team.
You have the right vision andyou'll have the right instincts
to overcome it.
So true.
Love everything that you justnow, what is the most important
lesson that you've learned inyour career?
There's constant disruption andchange, uh, around us.
(08:22):
And I think the most importantlesson is.
In the end, it will work out andI've learned that from really
great mentors, advisors, andamazing leaders who had that
say, you see the calm andresilience and they've had the
experience.
(08:42):
I definitely saw this from youmany times, David, and working
and seeing you overcome bigchallenges and leading forward
with vision.
And so I think the lesson I'velearned is to not panic, ground
yourself in those moments ofchange and disruption and
continue to move forward.
Cause it will work out.
Like if you have a plan, if youhave a purpose.
(09:04):
And you're going in the rightdirection, it will work out and
not to overreact to keep thatcalm.
And I think it's reallyimportant as a leader not to
overreact or to destabilize, butto stay really clear and
focused.
That's probably the biggestlesson I've learned.
I've learned it from other greatleaders, other great visionaries
(09:25):
and entrepreneurs that haveshown me that.
And when I've ever.
taking the opposite approach andmaybe gotten a little too
reactive or over tried tocompensate something usually a
lot more headwinds come at youwhen you start taking that path
when you keep that steady andcalm, solid belief that it will
(09:46):
work out the path may not beexactly what you're envisioning
and may not deliver everythingyou hope, but it seems to run a
lot more Consistent amid allthose changes and disruptions.
So I feel like it's one of themost important lessons I've
learned.
Yeah, no, it's very true.
You have to stay calm andcollected and stay on target
(10:07):
with your purpose.
That's very good advice.
Talk about advice.
What's the best advice you haveever received?
A lot of great people have givenme advice over the years.
My father was a great businessleader and continues to be a
great support to me.
And I think about things myfather.
Has told me is to always stayhumble, to always remember you
(10:33):
have to listen first before youcan act, take that time to
listen.
So I think that's a piece ofadvice that's been really
important in guiding my life andcareer.
I would also say.
Not being afraid to take ondifficult things.
So I had a coach and mentor oncethat said, what is easy is
seldom excellent.
There's not an easy path.
There's not a shortcut.
(10:53):
There's rarely shortcuts,especially in an entrepreneurial
or in a business growth dynamic,there's not a lot of shortcuts
you can take.
So you have to take on thedifficult things and that
actually.
Gives you bigger things that youcan go after.
And so that's what I would sayhas been some of the best advice
(11:14):
I've had, is not to be afraid ofdifficult things and stay
humble.
Wonderful advice.
Thanks for sharing them.
I especially like that.
Nothing great is ever easy.
Everything takes work.
And sometimes the hardest workis the most gratifying work.
Completely agree, yeah.
(11:35):
Let's talk about inspirationbecause I've always been
impressed that ideas collide andyou always come up with fresh
ideas.
We're always changing upcampaigns.
How do you find inspiration tocontinuously innovate?
Creative outlets and innovation.
That's my fuel that gets me upin the morning.
So I'm always looking for thatchallenge.
(11:57):
I'm looking for how can weinfluence something differently
or in a creative way?
So that one is what fuels me.
I tell my team this all thetime.
If you just stand up and lookaround you, there's a hundred
things that could inspire you.
You just have to open your heartand your mind and see it.
And that could ignite.
A great thought, a great idea.
And so don't don't close youreyes too much about what's
(12:18):
immediately around you, becausewhat you surround yourself with
is what will inspire you.
And so I surround myself with,uh, you know, my kids and my,
my, my friends, my colleagues,and great travel experiences.
And I look out my window righthere.
I see this amazing, beautifulmountain blue skies.
(12:39):
The there's opportunity to findinspiration all around us.
And that drives innovation forme because I often will stare at
something like, how did that getcreated?
How did that happen?
And try to maybe analyze it abit.
And from there, I might bestaring at a problem at the same
time and might find the creativesolution to it.
So it's the fuel for me, andit's also looking around and
(13:02):
being open with your heart andmind and eyes to see what's
there to inspire you.
Yeah, that's so true.
There's so much to appreciateall around us.
And you having the curiosity totry to figure things out is also
a source of inspiration.
Very good advice indeed.
Now let's talk about habits.
I think good leaders have goodhabits.
I was just curious as to whatare your habits and how does
(13:26):
self discipline fit into that?
Thank you.
Yeah, yeah.
So important.
And anytime I feel in my careerwhere I've gotten off course,
usually because I'm not beingdisciplined about the basics of
taking care of your sleep andyour mind, your body.
I think some habits I have thatI try to be very consistent with
is To find ways to walk, be awayfrom the work.
(13:52):
So whether it's through goingand on a long walk, I try and do
a long walk with my dog almostevery morning because it's, it's
quiet and peaceful and nointerruptions.
I don't look at my email and Itry and be really disconnected
in that time.
And that helps you get energyand just good exercise out
(14:14):
there.
Also trying to find ways to justbe.
Be mindful of where you'refeeling that stress and stopping
and pausing and giving an outletwhen that is becoming
overwhelming.
I found just simple breathing,meditation, doing another long
walk, getting away from Thestressor even for a five minutes
(14:37):
really refocuses you and yourbody and your energy.
And so those are been somehabits when I'm trying to listen
to my body more.
And what is this telling me?
Okay.
I need to sleep instead of as anentrepreneur.
And sometimes you're alwayslike, okay, I'm going to, I'm
going to give this another twohours.
I'm going to dive in and I'mgoing to just grind to get this
(15:00):
done.
Sometimes that's necessary, but.
Over the years, it's betterhabit and better discipline to
give yourself the sleep stepaway from it.
And I find myself coming back atit with new energy and can work
through it faster.
And so those are somedisciplines and habits I've put
forward in my work and in mypersonal life.
Yeah.
Thanks for sharing that.
I think we all need to giveourselves some quiet time.
(15:23):
And I love what you said aboutearly morning when it's so
peaceful and quiet and it's justyou and the dog walking.
You can do a lot of goodthinking during that time.
Thanks for sharing that.
Now let's talk about networking.
You alluded to this earlier, andnetworking is so important in
your line of work.
What are your tips on fosteringa strong network and how do you
(15:46):
instill trust and confidence?
Trying to instill trust is tojust be genuinely interested in
the other person and to reallylook at it from their needs.
Caring and goes back to thatlistening and still being
humble.
We have a saying here in theagency.
We, we use this a lot in ourbusiness development is we're an
(16:08):
agency that's been in yourshoes, meaning we try and
understand what it's like to beon your side, to walk in your
shoes that creates empathy andunderstanding and mutual
respect.
And so I, in a networkingsituation.
And especially if I'm justtrying to get to know people,
it's out of a genuine interest,not let me tell you about, or
let me sell you on, but tell meabout your family or what drives
(16:31):
you, what motivates you, or whydid you get involved in that?
And I think people can sensethat and That comes back often
tenfold because you're showingtrue care and true authenticity
in the approach to networkingand it leads you to the right
people to it as you're generallygetting to know someone,
(16:52):
understanding their challenges,you start to sense how you can
maybe the right people to it asyou're generally getting to know
someone, understanding theirchallenges, you start to sense
how you can maybe Help or be apart of that or refer them to
someone that could.
And that genuine interest hasbuilt great friendships, great
connection points.
And I think ultimately it buildstrust and confidence with
others.
(17:13):
That's really good advice.
I like what you said abouttaking an interest in other
people and.
Showing empathy and care, that'sa great way to connect with
people.
Now you have a pretty demandingjob, you travel a lot, and you
have a young family too.
How do you achieve work lifeharmony?
(17:34):
Yeah, that's probably the questthat we're all after.
It's a big part of why I startedthe business, in wanting that,
and more time with my family.
I try to, I share this a lotwith my team, is it, I think
it's also being honest and realwith yourself and in what work
life harmony looks like for youand defining that.
(17:55):
I think it's a blend of a lot ofthings.
There are times where There'sgoing to be a season, there
might be an intense or heavyseason where it's going to be
very focused on work and thatmeans some things may be out of
balance on the other side andrecognizing that and knowing
what that means or when you haveto then turn the balance on the
other way and making sure you'retaking care of those needs as
well as being really honest withyourself about priorities and
(18:19):
knowing where those prioritiesneed to be and giving yourself
permission or giving yourselfthe same time.
Respect that you would want fromwhen someone you want their
attention or you want theirinvolvement in something, being
respectful to when others areasking that from you, especially
those that you care about themost and finding that in your
(18:40):
life to be able to make that apriority and not just let work
overtake at all.
So in the blend of all of that.
I try and practice really goodboundaries more and more, and
I'm finding myself saying likeit, this can wait until after
the weekend, I don't need toimmediately respond to that and
(19:00):
giving that sense and knowingwhen I can do that makes for
everybody to feel a little bitmore connected to in my personal
life.
And, but then that also meanstimes where I'm really.
Into work day, maybe I have todo the same respect to be like,
Hey, this is my work time, but Iwill be available or present at
(19:22):
this time so that I can be fullyengaged.
And that's the other part ofthat thing is really important
is we try to fit so much in.
I know I try and fit so much inbecause I want to say and find
every opportunity, be part ofevery opportunity and not lose
something that can be really.
Compelling or fantastic that mayappear and being again measured
(19:44):
and okay, maybe I'm going to sayno to this one because these
other two are more important.
So being clear in those needsand not having to say yes to
everything is something that Ithink over time I've learned
gives that more work lifeachievement of balance and
blending the two so that theycan be healthy.
And purposeful on both sides ofwhere you're trying to manage
(20:08):
them.
That's very good advice.
All of us high achievers want todo more and achieve more.
And sometimes learning how tosay no is important for what
like harmony.
And I like what you said aboutsetting boundaries and making
sure you're clear on yourpriorities.
And knowing that it's not always50 50.
(20:29):
Sometimes it's give and take.
Those are all important lessonsthat we can learn.
Now, you work with a lot of verywell known and accomplished
leaders.
What are some of the qualitiesfrom your vantage point that are
most admired?
Qualities?
I would say I like decisiveness.
I think being decisive is reallyimportant in leadership.
(20:52):
You might need some time to getall the data and facts and
correlate that.
So I admire two people that willtake pause and say, I'm going to
process this and get back.
But then at that moment, I lovea decisive decision that carries
a project or an organizationforward.
I think that's really important.
I mentioned this earlier, but Ithink authenticity is really
(21:13):
important in our leaders.
And I think that buildsconfidence and trust, as we
talked about earlier, seeingthat someone's genuine, that can
be humble, but can also beDynamic and bold at the same
time and and true to theirpurpose and their drive with
still an authentic root to whothey are.
(21:35):
I think that's really admirable.
And probably lastly, it's areally important quality in a
leader.
Is someone that can, going backto vision can paint the picture,
make it really clear and get ateam on board to get a project
(21:56):
on board to get the next hurdle,uh, to be overcome that the
ability to be visionary withclarity and with real, sometimes
great storytelling or compellingreasons to be bought in.
Those are qualities I reallyadmire in other leaders.
I totally agree, especially thequality about visioning.
(22:20):
I think the key differencebetween being a leader and being
a good manager, a good leaderhas the ability to envision the
future and has the ability toarticulate that future in such a
binding, compelling way thatpeople feel excited about
jumping onto the bandwagon.
That's a true quality of a greatleader.
(22:40):
Totally agree.
Now we talked about theimportance of your team around
you, and I've seen your peopleare extremely loyal to you.
They've been with you for a longtime.
You do a great job mentoringthem.
And my question is actuallyturning the table around and
asking.
How do you think mentees canbest benefit from you as the
(23:02):
mentor?
It's a hard question, but Ithink an important one as I
reflect on it.
The, I think the, the benefit injust any type of mentor mentee
relationship is really listeningfor.
that everybody has a uniqueexperience and really unique,
(23:26):
every leader can be different.
We might have the samecharacteristics and admirable
traits, but in the experience,there's different ways that we
experience things and go throughthings that are really valuable.
And I think that's what I tryand.
Offer back to people that I'mworking with is these are very
(23:48):
unique experiences and the way Iresponded or the way that this
didn't go as planned.
This was a big setback andbecame frustrating, but this is
how we responded later to it.
Those are valuable lessons andthere are opportunities and
everyone to hear that story andhear how they overcome an
(24:08):
obstacle or hear how.
They took something that lookedimpossible and made it possible.
And I do believe I've, I havethose, you do all of us as
leaders have these uniquestories that were some of our
biggest challenges, our biggestdisappointments, our business,
biggest success stories thatthose stories.
And this is the, it's personalstory podcast, right?
(24:31):
Are so empowering when you hearthat, when you hear, oh, wow,
that's what it took to make thathappen.
And that's that personal drivefrom within.
And.
How each individual takes thoseon, I think are valuable for a
mentorship relationship andthat's what I would hope anybody
who's working with me would taketime to go, not just be like at
(24:52):
a generic dialogue, but get alittle bit deeper into the story
of the why and why did thathappen?
And why did you take that path?
Um, I think that's where you canreally have benefit.
Yeah, so true.
Those personal stories are verypowerful.
Now you've accomplished a lot,and given all that you've
learned and experienced, what isthe advice that you would give
(25:13):
to your younger self?
My advice would be to reallyembrace and celebrate the wins.
And those moments where you'rereally feeling it's all working,
everything's connected, likejust embrace that because it
doesn't last forever.
(25:34):
Something comes along that, thatchanges something.
But I just think about myyounger self, I think about
vacations I went on with my kidsthat they're growing up now.
I don't have those opportunitiesand whatever the adventure was.
In that moment of time is likeso great or a big client win
that just where everything justreally hit every mark, a great
(25:57):
campaign that inspired peopleand really motivated in those
moments are like really, theybuild up inside you and they,
they carry you forward into thenext opportunity and what takes
it takes to get to that level.
So my advice to my younger selfwould be, you really know when
those moments are and savorthem.
because they, they don't alwayslast forever.
(26:18):
And you have to go, you have togo climb another mountain to
find them again.
And the climb is hard when youget to the top, it's so
rewarding.
So just to my younger self, justembrace those moments and savor
them as long as possible.
I'm totally with you on that.
Thank you for sharing that.
We're coming to the end of theinterview, but I want to ask you
(26:40):
for one Final piece of adviceI'll show is about self
empowerment.
What's your advice on selfempowerment?
My advice is even when you mayfeel like you're doubting
yourself, know in that innerstrength that you are the unique
visionary, the unique talent.
(27:04):
We all have a story.
We all have an experience thatwill make what you believe in
possible.
It's all in, in really.
Taking that from within andpushing it forward and that,
that power is in there and thoseopportunities are going to
happen the more you, you pushyourself forward towards what
(27:24):
you envision.
And I've seen it happen and Iknow it can happen.
I've seen it happen in others,seen it in myself.
And that, I think that's wheretrue self empowerment comes is
when you give yourself thatpermission, really listen and
then put it out there, put itforward.
It is so true.
I've seen that in you, and Iknow that to be the case for me.
(27:45):
So, thanks for sharing that.
Matt, I appreciate you takingthe time to be on our show to
share your wisdom.
And for our audience, if youenjoyed this interview, I hope
you would join us on ourwebsite, ItsPersonalStories.
com, or join us on our YouTubeand Facebook, as well as
LinkedIn channels,ItsPersonalStories.
Thank you very much.
(28:07):
Thanks, David.
Great talking.
Yeah, same here.
Greetings, I'm David Kong, thefounder and principal of It's
Personal Stories, a hospitalitypodcast.
We are a nonprofit organizationdedicated to empowering personal
success.
Today, I'm delighted to welcomeMatt Clyde.
He is the president and chiefstrategist.
of Ideas Collide.
Ideas Collide is a globalmarketing agency, full service
(00:25):
agency, and they boast manyFortune 500 accounts as their
clients.
I'm delighted to welcome you,Matt.
Thanks for having me.
It's great to see you andexcited to have a conversation
today.
Welcome again.
Let's start with the founding ofIdeas Collide.
I read on LinkedIn that you wereworking a steady corporate job,
(00:45):
but then you lost purpose.
You started Ideas Collide.
Tell us what went on in yourmind at that time and how did
you find the courage andinspiration to take on the
challenge?
Uh, the rest of finding, findingyour own company.
Yeah.
My daughter had just been born.
I had this very close attachmentto a new child and you know what
(01:06):
that's like.
You have grandchildren, childrenof your own.
And then I was in the grind ofone career and left that
industry to start a brand newjob.
And there was just so muchtransition happening in my
personal life that it was hardto balance the demand of the
corporate needs and yourcorporate stakeholders, and then
(01:27):
the most important people inyour life, your family.
And so I was trying to find.
a balance to that.
And I'm one that doesn't want tounderserve anything, my family,
nor my corporate job.
And so I felt like I had to findbalance in one and took a leap
by going and saying, I think Ican continue to have success in
(01:50):
my career.
By maybe trying to apply somethings I've learned along the
way and doing them just a littlebit differently and see what
that would attract in terms ofhow I approach marketing and how
I approached building a team ina business.
I read a statement that said, ifyou don't love your work every
day, then you can't love yourlife.
And I was feeling this anxietyof leaving.
(02:13):
My family behind so much was onthe road a lot and I just felt
like I needed to re center andrefigure my career in line with
where I really wanted to be on adaily basis.
And so that's where I reallydecided to launch my own
initiative.
That's quite a big risk that youtook on, especially with your
family.
No real clients.
(02:34):
I didn't have a lot backing me.
I was just like some ambitionand a really strong network of
people.
So yeah, it was a big leap andnot a lot of safety net there.
Yeah.
We're going to talk aboutnetworking in just a minute, but
I would like to find out fromyou whether you've ever.
Doubted your decision and haveyou ever had any regrets?
(02:55):
And if so, how did you overcomethem?
Yeah, I wouldn't say doubt.
I don't like to operate withdoubt, but it definitely moments
of analysis of is this the rightcalculated risk?
Definitely been through that andhave to balance the data with
(03:16):
maybe some gut instincts toguide you along the way to, to
make the right decision.
I've been through, I've beenthrough.
A lot of my career is you haveas well.
And many others, I worked incorporate America, worked in the
travel and airline industry onnine 11 work through that, and
then thought that was verydisruptive and then went through
(03:37):
the great recession.
And that's when I probably had alot of doubt in running my own
business.
Cause I was about two years,three years in when.
The Great Recession hit, andthat was a lot of risk and a lot
of challenges that feltoverwhelming at the time.
And how do you see through allthat disruption and change?
And then we went through COVIDand the disruption and changes
(03:59):
of that and how thatreconfigured the way we work and
engage with our team and ourbusiness and our clients.
So I think it was overcoming.
When those big obstacles hityou, I think you learn from each
one and everyone feels, wow, howdo we see through this?
But I think what it reminds meof over and over again is that
(04:21):
human nature is we cometogether, we figure it out and
we move forward.
And that's the power too ofbeing an entrepreneur is you can
have those options and choicesto find different paths to make
you find the right solutionthat's going to work for your
business and your.
Your organization.
So true.
And kudos to you.
You've built a strong teamaround you, and no doubt they
(04:44):
will have tremendous support toyou when you will go through the
hardship.
But on that subject, how do youfind the strength and courage to
prevail when things are sochallenging?
And whether it's 9 11 or theGreat Recession or COVID, but
they are also setbacks anddisappointments, that poses
(05:04):
challenges.
How do you find the strength andcourage to prevail?
I think surrounding yourselfwith great people is one part of
that because they are greatsounding boards, have great
mentors, have great coaches, andthey have a great executive.
And across the Talent of theteam, people that, uh, I can
talk to and be honest with andthey can be honest back and that
(05:26):
helps you find the courage andwhere you need to show up.
I, I do take very personally theresponsibilities I hold for my
clients and for my team.
And so it pushes me to moveforward even when.
And you might not feel thatmoment you can do it, but you
have to just be resilient andshow up because people depend on
(05:48):
that.
People, whether it's a clientwho's counting on you to come
through with, with work or ateam member who's counting on,
you know, that for theirlivelihood or for their career
and their ambitions.
Uh, I take that very personallyto, to show up and prevail.
So it's probably an innerstrength of.
(06:08):
Experience and then really greatsounding boards to help move
forward.
So true.
A lot of great leaders that I'veinterviewed about the same
topic.
I talk about that innerstrength.
They feel a need to be strong inorder to demonstrate the
strength and courage to otherpeople to inspire them.
What advice would you give toaspiring entrepreneurs who find
(06:32):
it difficult to let go of thefamiliar and venture into the
unknown?
How do they find the confidenceto do?
Aside from finding the rightpeople to be that strength and
system, people that aren'tafraid to Give you really good
feedback.
You need people to help behonest and direct.
And we call it candor with care,caring enough to get challenged
(06:54):
you on something.
So I think that's one piece ofit, as I just spoke to.
I think the other piece of thatis finding that confidence is
probably.
In the belief of what you'redoing and knowing it can make a
difference and knowing that youhave a solution.
If doubt is one thing and seeingthrough that is another, but I
(07:17):
think it goes back to that innerKnowledge of I know what we can
do this.
You're going to have obstaclesand roadblocks every day.
That's never going to go away inany type of business.
It's how you navigate those andhow you respond to those.
And that's where you got to drawinto your vision.
And if your vision is reallyclear.
(07:38):
And your path to get there isclear, you can overcome those.
And that's where I would giveadvice to new entrepreneurs is
be clear on your vision, bereally clear on your purpose,
and be resilient in what you'retrying to define and build with
great people around you, becausethat's going to carry you
through all those obstacles andhelp you see through the
challenges.
(07:59):
And that will help you riseabove those.
Those big days where there is agiant roadblock and you'll
figure it out because you'regonna have the great right team.
You have the right vision andyou'll have the right instincts
to overcome it.
So true.
Love everything that you justnow, what is the most important
lesson that you've learned inyour career?
There's constant disruption andchange, uh, around us.
(08:22):
And I think the most importantlesson is.
In the end, it will work out andI've learned that from really
great mentors, advisors, andamazing leaders who had that
say, you see the calm andresilience and they've had the
experience.
(08:42):
I definitely saw this from youmany times, David, and working
and seeing you overcome bigchallenges and leading forward
with vision.
And so I think the lesson I'velearned is to not panic, ground
yourself in those moments ofchange and disruption and
continue to move forward.
Cause it will work out.
Like if you have a plan, if youhave a purpose.
(09:04):
And you're going in the rightdirection, it will work out and
not to overreact to keep thatcalm.
And I think it's reallyimportant as a leader not to
overreact or to destabilize, butto stay really clear and
focused.
That's probably the biggestlesson I've learned.
I've learned it from other greatleaders, other great visionaries
(09:25):
and entrepreneurs that haveshown me that.
And when I've ever.
taking the opposite approach andmaybe gotten a little too
reactive or over tried tocompensate something usually a
lot more headwinds come at youwhen you start taking that path
when you keep that steady andcalm, solid belief that it will
(09:46):
work out the path may not beexactly what you're envisioning
and may not deliver everythingyou hope, but it seems to run a
lot more Consistent amid allthose changes and disruptions.
So I feel like it's one of themost important lessons I've
learned.
Yeah, no, it's very true.
You have to stay calm andcollected and stay on target
(10:07):
with your purpose.
That's very good advice.
Talk about advice.
What's the best advice you haveever received?
A lot of great people have givenme advice over the years.
My father was a great businessleader and continues to be a
great support to me.
And I think about things myfather.
Has told me is to always stayhumble, to always remember you
(10:33):
have to listen first before youcan act, take that time to
listen.
So I think that's a piece ofadvice that's been really
important in guiding my life andcareer.
I would also say.
Not being afraid to take ondifficult things.
So I had a coach and mentor oncethat said, what is easy is
seldom excellent.
There's not an easy path.
There's not a shortcut.
(10:53):
There's rarely shortcuts,especially in an entrepreneurial
or in a business growth dynamic,there's not a lot of shortcuts
you can take.
So you have to take on thedifficult things and that
actually.
Gives you bigger things that youcan go after.
And so that's what I would sayhas been some of the best advice
(11:14):
I've had, is not to be afraid ofdifficult things and stay
humble.
Wonderful advice.
Thanks for sharing them.
I especially like that.
Nothing great is ever easy.
Everything takes work.
And sometimes the hardest workis the most gratifying work.
Completely agree, yeah.
(11:35):
Let's talk about inspirationbecause I've always been
impressed that ideas collide andyou always come up with fresh
ideas.
We're always changing upcampaigns.
How do you find inspiration tocontinuously innovate?
Creative outlets and innovation.
That's my fuel that gets me upin the morning.
So I'm always looking for thatchallenge.
(11:57):
I'm looking for how can weinfluence something differently
or in a creative way?
So that one is what fuels me.
I tell my team this all thetime.
If you just stand up and lookaround you, there's a hundred
things that could inspire you.
You just have to open your heartand your mind and see it.
And that could ignite.
A great thought, a great idea.
And so don't don't close youreyes too much about what's
(12:18):
immediately around you, becausewhat you surround yourself with
is what will inspire you.
And so I surround myself with,uh, you know, my kids and my,
my, my friends, my colleagues,and great travel experiences.
And I look out my window righthere.
I see this amazing, beautifulmountain blue skies.
(12:39):
The there's opportunity to findinspiration all around us.
And that drives innovation forme because I often will stare at
something like, how did that getcreated?
How did that happen?
And try to maybe analyze it abit.
And from there, I might bestaring at a problem at the same
time and might find the creativesolution to it.
So it's the fuel for me, andit's also looking around and
(13:02):
being open with your heart andmind and eyes to see what's
there to inspire you.
Yeah, that's so true.
There's so much to appreciateall around us.
And you having the curiosity totry to figure things out is also
a source of inspiration.
Very good advice indeed.
Now let's talk about habits.
I think good leaders have goodhabits.
I was just curious as to whatare your habits and how does
(13:26):
self discipline fit into that?
Thank you.
Yeah, yeah.
So important.
And anytime I feel in my careerwhere I've gotten off course,
usually because I'm not beingdisciplined about the basics of
taking care of your sleep andyour mind, your body.
I think some habits I have thatI try to be very consistent with
is To find ways to walk, be awayfrom the work.
(13:52):
So whether it's through goingand on a long walk, I try and do
a long walk with my dog almostevery morning because it's, it's
quiet and peaceful and nointerruptions.
I don't look at my email and Itry and be really disconnected
in that time.
And that helps you get energyand just good exercise out
(14:14):
there.
Also trying to find ways to justbe.
Be mindful of where you'refeeling that stress and stopping
and pausing and giving an outletwhen that is becoming
overwhelming.
I found just simple breathing,meditation, doing another long
walk, getting away from Thestressor even for a five minutes
(14:37):
really refocuses you and yourbody and your energy.
And so those are been somehabits when I'm trying to listen
to my body more.
And what is this telling me?
Okay.
I need to sleep instead of as anentrepreneur.
And sometimes you're alwayslike, okay, I'm going to, I'm
going to give this another twohours.
I'm going to dive in and I'mgoing to just grind to get this
(15:00):
done.
Sometimes that's necessary, but.
Over the years, it's betterhabit and better discipline to
give yourself the sleep stepaway from it.
And I find myself coming back atit with new energy and can work
through it faster.
And so those are somedisciplines and habits I've put
forward in my work and in mypersonal life.
Yeah.
Thanks for sharing that.
I think we all need to giveourselves some quiet time.
(15:23):
And I love what you said aboutearly morning when it's so
peaceful and quiet and it's justyou and the dog walking.
You can do a lot of goodthinking during that time.
Thanks for sharing that.
Now let's talk about networking.
You alluded to this earlier, andnetworking is so important in
your line of work.
What are your tips on fosteringa strong network and how do you
(15:46):
instill trust and confidence?
Trying to instill trust is tojust be genuinely interested in
the other person and to reallylook at it from their needs.
Caring and goes back to thatlistening and still being
humble.
We have a saying here in theagency.
We, we use this a lot in ourbusiness development is we're an
(16:08):
agency that's been in yourshoes, meaning we try and
understand what it's like to beon your side, to walk in your
shoes that creates empathy andunderstanding and mutual
respect.
And so I, in a networkingsituation.
And especially if I'm justtrying to get to know people,
it's out of a genuine interest,not let me tell you about, or
let me sell you on, but tell meabout your family or what drives
(16:31):
you, what motivates you, or whydid you get involved in that?
And I think people can sensethat and That comes back often
tenfold because you're showingtrue care and true authenticity
in the approach to networkingand it leads you to the right
people to it as you're generallygetting to know someone,
(16:52):
understanding their challenges,you start to sense how you can
maybe the right people to it asyou're generally getting to know
someone, understanding theirchallenges, you start to sense
how you can maybe Help or be apart of that or refer them to
someone that could.
And that genuine interest hasbuilt great friendships, great
connection points.
And I think ultimately it buildstrust and confidence with
others.
(17:13):
That's really good advice.
I like what you said abouttaking an interest in other
people and.
Showing empathy and care, that'sa great way to connect with
people.
Now you have a pretty demandingjob, you travel a lot, and you
have a young family too.
How do you achieve work lifeharmony?
(17:34):
Yeah, that's probably the questthat we're all after.
It's a big part of why I startedthe business, in wanting that,
and more time with my family.
I try to, I share this a lotwith my team, is it, I think
it's also being honest and realwith yourself and in what work
life harmony looks like for youand defining that.
(17:55):
I think it's a blend of a lot ofthings.
There are times where There'sgoing to be a season, there
might be an intense or heavyseason where it's going to be
very focused on work and thatmeans some things may be out of
balance on the other side andrecognizing that and knowing
what that means or when you haveto then turn the balance on the
other way and making sure you'retaking care of those needs as
well as being really honest withyourself about priorities and
(18:19):
knowing where those prioritiesneed to be and giving yourself
permission or giving yourselfthe same time.
Respect that you would want fromwhen someone you want their
attention or you want theirinvolvement in something, being
respectful to when others areasking that from you, especially
those that you care about themost and finding that in your
(18:40):
life to be able to make that apriority and not just let work
overtake at all.
So in the blend of all of that.
I try and practice really goodboundaries more and more, and
I'm finding myself saying likeit, this can wait until after
the weekend, I don't need toimmediately respond to that and
(19:00):
giving that sense and knowingwhen I can do that makes for
everybody to feel a little bitmore connected to in my personal
life.
And, but then that also meanstimes where I'm really.
Into work day, maybe I have todo the same respect to be like,
Hey, this is my work time, but Iwill be available or present at
(19:22):
this time so that I can be fullyengaged.
And that's the other part ofthat thing is really important
is we try to fit so much in.
I know I try and fit so much inbecause I want to say and find
every opportunity, be part ofevery opportunity and not lose
something that can be really.
Compelling or fantastic that mayappear and being again measured
(19:44):
and okay, maybe I'm going to sayno to this one because these
other two are more important.
So being clear in those needsand not having to say yes to
everything is something that Ithink over time I've learned
gives that more work lifeachievement of balance and
blending the two so that theycan be healthy.
And purposeful on both sides ofwhere you're trying to manage
(20:08):
them.
That's very good advice.
All of us high achievers want todo more and achieve more.
And sometimes learning how tosay no is important for what
like harmony.
And I like what you said aboutsetting boundaries and making
sure you're clear on yourpriorities.
And knowing that it's not always50 50.
(20:29):
Sometimes it's give and take.
Those are all important lessonsthat we can learn.
Now, you work with a lot of verywell known and accomplished
leaders.
What are some of the qualitiesfrom your vantage point that are
most admired?
Qualities?
I would say I like decisiveness.
I think being decisive is reallyimportant in leadership.
(20:52):
You might need some time to getall the data and facts and
correlate that.
So I admire two people that willtake pause and say, I'm going to
process this and get back.
But then at that moment, I lovea decisive decision that carries
a project or an organizationforward.
I think that's really important.
I mentioned this earlier, but Ithink authenticity is really
(21:13):
important in our leaders.
And I think that buildsconfidence and trust, as we
talked about earlier, seeingthat someone's genuine, that can
be humble, but can also beDynamic and bold at the same
time and and true to theirpurpose and their drive with
still an authentic root to whothey are.
(21:35):
I think that's really admirable.
And probably lastly, it's areally important quality in a
leader.
Is someone that can, going backto vision can paint the picture,
make it really clear and get ateam on board to get a project
(21:56):
on board to get the next hurdle,uh, to be overcome that the
ability to be visionary withclarity and with real, sometimes
great storytelling or compellingreasons to be bought in.
Those are qualities I reallyadmire in other leaders.
I totally agree, especially thequality about visioning.
(22:20):
I think the key differencebetween being a leader and being
a good manager, a good leaderhas the ability to envision the
future and has the ability toarticulate that future in such a
binding, compelling way thatpeople feel excited about
jumping onto the bandwagon.
That's a true quality of a greatleader.
(22:40):
Totally agree.
Now we talked about theimportance of your team around
you, and I've seen your peopleare extremely loyal to you.
They've been with you for a longtime.
You do a great job mentoringthem.
And my question is actuallyturning the table around and
asking.
How do you think mentees canbest benefit from you as the
(23:02):
mentor?
It's a hard question, but Ithink an important one as I
reflect on it.
The, I think the, the benefit injust any type of mentor mentee
relationship is really listeningfor.
that everybody has a uniqueexperience and really unique,
(23:26):
every leader can be different.
We might have the samecharacteristics and admirable
traits, but in the experience,there's different ways that we
experience things and go throughthings that are really valuable.
And I think that's what I tryand.
Offer back to people that I'mworking with is these are very
(23:48):
unique experiences and the way Iresponded or the way that this
didn't go as planned.
This was a big setback andbecame frustrating, but this is
how we responded later to it.
Those are valuable lessons andthere are opportunities and
everyone to hear that story andhear how they overcome an
(24:08):
obstacle or hear how.
They took something that lookedimpossible and made it possible.
And I do believe I've, I havethose, you do all of us as
leaders have these uniquestories that were some of our
biggest challenges, our biggestdisappointments, our business,
biggest success stories thatthose stories.
And this is the, it's personalstory podcast, right?
(24:31):
Are so empowering when you hearthat, when you hear, oh, wow,
that's what it took to make thathappen.
And that's that personal drivefrom within.
And.
How each individual takes thoseon, I think are valuable for a
mentorship relationship andthat's what I would hope anybody
who's working with me would taketime to go, not just be like at
(24:52):
a generic dialogue, but get alittle bit deeper into the story
of the why and why did thathappen?
And why did you take that path?
Um, I think that's where you canreally have benefit.
Yeah, so true.
Those personal stories are verypowerful.
Now you've accomplished a lot,and given all that you've
learned and experienced, what isthe advice that you would give
(25:13):
to your younger self?
My advice would be to reallyembrace and celebrate the wins.
And those moments where you'rereally feeling it's all working,
everything's connected, likejust embrace that because it
doesn't last forever.
(25:34):
Something comes along that, thatchanges something.
But I just think about myyounger self, I think about
vacations I went on with my kidsthat they're growing up now.
I don't have those opportunitiesand whatever the adventure was.
In that moment of time is likeso great or a big client win
that just where everything justreally hit every mark, a great
(25:57):
campaign that inspired peopleand really motivated in those
moments are like really, theybuild up inside you and they,
they carry you forward into thenext opportunity and what takes
it takes to get to that level.
So my advice to my younger selfwould be, you really know when
those moments are and savorthem.
because they, they don't alwayslast forever.
(26:18):
And you have to go, you have togo climb another mountain to
find them again.
And the climb is hard when youget to the top, it's so
rewarding.
So just to my younger self, justembrace those moments and savor
them as long as possible.
I'm totally with you on that.
Thank you for sharing that.
We're coming to the end of theinterview, but I want to ask you
(26:40):
for one Final piece of adviceI'll show is about self
empowerment.
What's your advice on selfempowerment?
My advice is even when you mayfeel like you're doubting
yourself, know in that innerstrength that you are the unique
visionary, the unique talent.
(27:04):
We all have a story.
We all have an experience thatwill make what you believe in
possible.
It's all in, in really.
Taking that from within andpushing it forward and that,
that power is in there and thoseopportunities are going to
happen the more you, you pushyourself forward towards what
(27:24):
you envision.
And I've seen it happen and Iknow it can happen.
I've seen it happen in others,seen it in myself.
And that, I think that's wheretrue self empowerment comes is
when you give yourself thatpermission, really listen and
then put it out there, put itforward.
It is so true.
I've seen that in you, and Iknow that to be the case for me.
(27:45):
So, thanks for sharing that.
Matt, I appreciate you takingthe time to be on our show to
share your wisdom.
And for our audience, if youenjoyed this interview, I hope
you would join us on ourwebsite, ItsPersonalStories.
com, or join us on our YouTubeand Facebook, as well as
LinkedIn channels,ItsPersonalStories.
Thank you very much.
(28:07):
Thanks, David.
Great talking.
Yeah, same here.
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!