My guest today is the author of “Hidden Genius,” The Secret Ways of Thinking that Power the World’s Most Successful People, Polina Marinova Pompliano. She is the founder of The Profile, a media organization that studies successful people and companies.

Previously, she spent five years at FORTUNE where she covered technology and venture capital.

As the author and editor of Term Sheet, FORTUNE’s industry-leading dealmaking newsletter, Polina interviewed the industry’s most influential dealmakers, including Melinda Gates, Steve Schwarzman, Richard Branson, and more.

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In today's episode, we embark on a captivating journey through the bustling corridors of New York City's subway, where inspiration often strikes unexpectedly. From these underground musings, we delve into the transformative power of personal narratives, discovering profound insights and relatable wisdom from the experiences of others.

My guest, Polina, shares invaluable lessons gleaned from the paths of the most successful individuals. Amidst tales of triumph, we explore the notion that success is not always a linear journey; rather, it often manifests in the midst of messiness and imperfection. Embracing the inevitability of hardship, we learn to navigate the twists and turns of our own narratives with resilience and grace.

Polina offers sage advice, drawing from the wisdom of those who have navigated similar challenges. Among the gems she shares is the concept of cultivating an aspirational alter ego—an empowering tool for personal growth and achievement.

As our conversation unfolds, we delve deeper into the mechanics of success, exploring the role of systems and the indispensable nature of trust in our pursuits. And as we reach the culmination of our discussion, we leave you with a stirring reflection on the essence of success—a reminder that its true measure lies not solely in achievement but in the journey itself.

Join us as we uncover the transformative power of storytelling, resilience, and trust, and embark on a journey toward realizing our fullest potential.

Before we dive into the conversation, I'd like to extend my gratitude to my dear friend Jordan Olmscheid for introducing me to Polina. Jordan is the brilliant mind behind "The Wealth Letters," a compilation of letters from accomplished individuals imparting their most profound life and business insights. If you haven't already, I highly encourage you to check out his previous episode on the show—it's a treasure trove of wisdom. Additionally, Jordan is currently immersed in an exciting new book project; be sure to follow him on Substack for updates and exclusive content.

Alright, let’s get started, please help me welcome, Polina Pompliano.

The New York subway can be a source of inspiration for many people.

Feeling like an outsider can provide a different perspective and advantage.

Learning history through personal stories and experiences can make it more relatable and engaging.

Learning from others' experiences and stories can help in making better decisions and understanding different perspectives.

Success is often messy and non-linear, requiring a willingness to fail and learn from mistakes. Embracing imperfection can lead to innovative and successful outcomes.

Hardship and suffering can be catalysts for personal growth and progress. Developing an alter ego can help individuals overcome self-limiting beliefs and tap into their full potential. Understanding different perspectives is crucial for empathy and avoiding judgment. Translating a book can have a profound impact, allowing people who don't speak the original language to access and understand the author's work. Trust is the foundation of personal and professional relationships, and it is earned through consistency and reliability. Focusing on systems rather than outcomes can lead to more sustainable and fulfilling success. Defining success.

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