Many entrepreneurs chase ideas, but true success lies in what happens after the initial spark.  In this episode, I sit down with Todd Clark, former CEO of Co-Op for 3 decades in the financial services industry, who turned a failed startup into a $1.9 billion financial powerhouse. He shares the one quality that separates successful entrepreneurs from the rest - curiosity. This conversation reminded me that entrepreneurship isn’t just about the destination or the exit - it’s about the genuine curiosity that drives us to understand systems deeply. What’s the quality you believe is most essential for entrepreneurial success? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Connect with Todd Clark:

Website: https://bit.ly/40cMQFi

X.com: https://bit.ly/4kmLn7c

LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/4ioCo3O

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro

01:39 Todd Clark’s Back Story and Entrepreneurship Journey

05:52 Choosing the Right Business Partner

08:32 Transitioning to First Data

11:55 Being in Multiple Board of Directors

15:13 Leadership Styles in Big or Small Companies

17:37 Building a High-Performance Team

20:15 Co-op Operations

21:35 Credit Unions vs. Regional Banks

24:53 Threats to Smaller Banks and Credit Unions

29:45 Potential Trump Administration Impacts on Banks and Credit Unions

31:38 Views on Cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, Blockchain

39:35 Money as a Magnifier

41:52 Biggest Accomplishment in His Career

46:24 Biggest Mistake and Lessons Learned

47:18 Feeling the Imposter Syndrome 

48:52 Health Practices

50:55 Purpose, Contentment, or Happiness?

52:33 Differences in Religious & Spiritual Beliefs

54:54 Mentoring Benefits

55:57 Recommended Books and Podcasts

1:00:23 What He Wants His Kids to Say to Him in the Future

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