What does real success look like when your journey starts with nothing and every win must be carved from grit, risk, and self-belief?

On today’s episode, Nicole McMackin has an unfiltered conversation with tech leader Dan Van Tran, whose immigrant story, relentless drive, and radical authenticity reveal surprising lessons behind true career elevation. From teaching himself to read at age three, to becoming the parent-advocate for his family, to building a thriving tech career against the odds, his experiences illuminate why optimism and resourcefulness matter more than pedigree.

You’ll learn exclusive, actionable strategies for conquering imposter syndrome, transforming adversity into innovation, and amplifying your impact, plus the urgent truths about why asking the right questions unlocks opportunity. Listen right now to avoid the pain of stagnation and unlock the rare playbook for lasting career growth. This episode delivers exclusive mindset breakthroughs you won’t find anywhere else.

[00:00] – A three-year-old “prodigy,” a cassette player, and the secret power of early self-advocacy

[00:04:26] – Stolen wealth, refugee escapes, and meeting the founder of Sriracha—how a family survival story shapes resilience

[00:08:43] – Why three strangers in Long Island became “family” and the real value behind radical generosity

[00:12:02] – Becoming a parent in childhood, first-gen pressure, and the unspoken rules for immigrant success

[00:14:30] – Growth mindsets, invention-from-necessity, and the unique freedom to fail forward

[00:23:10] – From aspiring garbage man to tech innovator: How childhood dreams evolve and ignite professional ambition

[00:31:27] – Grit, late-night buses, and work ethic: What really separates successful risk-takers from those who only “want to”

[00:40:38] – Conquering imposter syndrome at the top—proven reframes and the toolkit for thriving under pressure

Dan Van Tran is a senior technology leader and executive known for his resilience-driven mindset and impactful career in software, fintech, and health tech. From immigrant roots and firsthand leadership as a first-generation American, he’s built his reputation on empowering teams, fostering innovation, and giving back. Dan Van Tran is deeply committed to social mission work and is recognized for championing mentorship and authentic professional growth in the tech industry.

🔗 LinkedIn

1. “Sriracha” (Huy Fong Foods founder)
2. Golden Books series
3. RPI (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute)
4. Five Elements of Effective Thinking (book)
5. Women in Leadership program
6. Sallie Mae
7. MIT
8. Binghamton University
9. University at Albany
10. AP Comp Sci
11. ChatGPT

1. Irvine Technology Corporation
2. Nicole McMackin on LinkedIn

Elevate Your Career is an original podcast hosted by Nicole McMackin. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.