In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, Matt is joined by Yashaar Amin, Partner and Head of Asset Management at Waterford Property Company.

In this insightful conversation, Matt and Yashaar discuss the journey of mastering a complex craft that blends both technical knowledge and relationship-building. They explore the significance of gaining hands-on experience across different roles and how filling gaps in expertise can unlock new opportunities. You'll get a glimpse into the balance between hard skills and soft skills, and how strategic partnerships amplify individual strengths in achieving bigger goals.

You'll discover the nuances of collaborative ventures, highlighting the importance of trust, transparency, and shared vision in successful teamwork. Yashaar offers insights into the challenges of starting out, the value of learning from mistakes, and why patience and persistence are key ingredients in carving out a sustainable path. The discussion offers practical insights for anyone looking to leverage their talents alongside others to create a meaningful impact.

This episode encourages embracing vulnerability and ethical leadership, offering a reminder that true success is often a collective journey fueled by mutual respect and genuine collaboration.

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What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Yashaar's journey to UC Irvine and his decision to pursue a master's degree at Columbia, driven by his desire to create momentum and opportunities for himself.
• His realization that understanding both the "bricks and sticks" and finance aspects of real estate are crucial for long-term success.
• The importance of continuous learning and the value of diverse experiences in shaping a successful career in real estate.
• The concept of syndication, where resources are pooled to invest in real estate opportunities. 
• The challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship in real estate, particularly the need for a solid foundation in both finance and real estate operations.
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Yashaar Amin is a Partner and Head of Asset Management at Waterford Property Company, bringing over 15 years of diverse real estate experience spanning investment management, acquisitions, and operations. He has held executive roles across private equity, family offices, and national brokerages, overseeing long-term strategies and day-to-day execution for major real estate portfolios. Prior to Waterford, Yashaar led a Los Angeles-based institutional fund at RP Realty Partners and managed leasing and development for The L\&R Group of Companies. He also directed acquisitions and asset management for The Wonderful Company and began his career in brokerage, property management, and construction. A Columbia MSRED graduate and UC Irvine alum, he is a founding member of Building Hope within City of Hope’s LA Real Estate Council. Yashaar lives in Laguna Beach with his wife and two children.

Resources:

Yashaar's LinkedIn

Waterford Property Company

Disclaimer: 

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Edge of Excellence podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, co-host Sean Phelps is joined by Keaton Petite, a higher education consultant.

In this engaging conversation, Keaton reflects on the evolving landscape of work and learning, revealing how emerging tools have transformed the way professionals approach problem-solving and creativity. From leveraging technology to streamline complex tasks to rethinking traditional methods, you'll hear about the challenges and opportunities that come with adapting to rapid innovation.

Discover insights on personal growth and the journey of self-discovery, emphasizing the value of pausing to reflect on what truly matters. Rather than following prescribed paths blindly, Keaton encourages you to explore your genuine passions and set meaningful goals that align with your values. This introspective approach is framed as essential for navigating today’s complex world, where external expectations often cloud individual purpose and direction.

This episode offers a message of persistence, clarity, and intentionality, as well as the idea that with the right mindset and tools, you can chart a course toward fulfillment and impact.

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What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Keaton's personal journey of self-discovery, moving away from traditional success metrics to focus on personal fulfillment and passion.
• The importance of taking immediate actions that align with one's interests and passions. 
• The typical structure of a consulting project, including processes such as data collection, design, and implementation. 
• The challenges and opportunities presented by the shift toward online and continuing education as alternatives to traditional degree programs, and the role of consulting in helping navigate these changes. 
• The value of self-exploration and finding joy in one's work to achieve true success.
• And much more...

Resources:

Keaton Petite’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer: 

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Edge of Excellence podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, Matt is joined by Craig Atkins, Chairman and Co-founder of City Ventures, a real estate development firm focused on urban housing throughout California.

In this engaging conversation, Matt and Craig dive deep into the unpredictable journey of building a career from the ground up. From relentless persistence that spans hundreds of days to unexpected opportunities that arise during challenging economic times, you'll learn how dedication and adaptability can turn setbacks into successes. It’s a testament to the power of grit and the willingness to say "yes" even when the path seems uncertain.

Discover the balance between work and life, highlighting how unconventional choices and bold moves can lead to a uniquely fulfilling lifestyle. Whether it’s redefining what retirement looks like or finding ways to integrate passion and play into a busy schedule, the conversation challenges traditional ideas about success and personal fulfillment.

This episode is not just about climbing the ladder but about crafting a life that blends ambition with joy, reminding us all that sometimes the most unconventional paths lead to the most rewarding destinations.

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What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Craig's rebellious behavior in middle school and the impact of his grandmother's decision to send him to boarding school.
• How bartending and architectural internships in college helped him realize his passion for real estate development over architecture
• The process of entitlement, design, and construction management in real estate development.
• The initial challenges of starting a brokerage company at 23, including starting the company with a $4,000 loan and borrowing office supplies from a dumpster.
• The establishment of City Ventures and the focus on ground-up development and land development.
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Craig Atkins is the Chairman and Co-founder of City Ventures, a real estate development firm focused on urban housing throughout California. With over 25 years of experience in real estate, Craig has been involved in more than $3 billion in transactions, giving him deep insight into California’s diverse markets. Prior to City Ventures, he founded and led O'Donnell/Atkins, the state’s largest land brokerage firm, which averaged over $1 billion in annual transactions and operated six offices statewide. He also co-founded O/A Homes, a builder of luxury homes in La Quinta. Earlier in his career, Craig was a project manager at the Warmington Company, overseeing large-scale developments. A member of the Young Presidents Organization, he holds degrees in Architecture and Business Administration from the University of Colorado, Boulder.

Resources:

City Ventures

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, co-host Sean Phelps is joined by Dave Foster, the Founder and CEO of Gateway Wealth Management.

In this insightful conversation, Sean and Dave explore a nuanced journey of personal growth, career evolution, and the often-overlooked importance of perseverance. Through stories of early challenges and surprising pivots, you'll learn how formative experiences—especially those that test one's limits—can shape not just career paths but also character.

Dave reflects on a transformative period of his life, recounting both the obstacles and the small wins that contributed to his long-term success. These reflections highlight a broader theme: that the path to professional fulfillment isn't always linear, and sometimes the most valuable lessons are learned not through easy victories, but through enduring tough seasons with intention.

This episode is a compelling reminder that personal and professional mastery often emerges from taking the long view—and having the courage to try, stumble, and keep going anyway.

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What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Dave's initial interest in business, influenced by his father, who was a CEO of an animal feed manufacturing company.
• The value of thick skin and persistence, essential skills for a career in sales and business management.
• The challenges of selling financial advice with Edward Jones, where rejection feels personal compared to selling paint jobs at College Works.
• The psychological aspects of financial advice, particularly in helping clients through life changes like the death of a spouse. 
• The importance of balancing long-term goals with enjoying the present as outlined in the book 'Die with Zero' by Bill Perkins.
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Dave Foster is the Founder and CEO of Gateway Wealth Management, a fee-only advisory firm based in St. Louis. A CFP®, RICP®, and CAP® professional, he specializes in retirement income and tax planning. Dave is also the host of the Gateway Giving Podcast, where he explores philanthropy and purposeful wealth. When he’s not helping clients or behind the mic, you’ll find him hiking, playing baseball, or hanging out with his wife and three kids.

Resources:

Dave's LinkedIn

Gateway Wealth Management

Die with Zero book

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, Matt is joined by Matt Sivewright, a four-time serial entrepreneur.

During the conversation, the discussion explores the challenges of building businesses, from the initial spark of an idea to overcoming the hurdles of growth. The two Matts touch on the pressures and sacrifices involved in the entrepreneurial world, highlighting how pivotal decisions shape the trajectory of one's career and personal life.

Matt Sivewright provides an in-depth look into the nuances of scaling a business, from the intricacies of hiring contractors to handling the stress of financial uncertainty. The conversation also explores the hard-earned wisdom that comes from experience, emphasizing the vital role of persistence and adaptability when the odds seem stacked against you.

This episode is a deep dive into the grit, resilience, and strategic thinking that define the entrepreneurial spirit.

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What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Matt's journey as a serial entrepreneur and maintaining a balanced life with family.
• The challenges and successes of growing a fence business, including expanding nationally and dealing with cash flow issues.
• Matt's experience of selling to customers in different countries and adapting to different market requirements. 
• The value of adapting to changes in consumer behavior, such as the shift towards online transactions.
• The importance of putting family first while maintaining a work-life balance.
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Matt Sivewright, the Founder and CEO of EverFence, brings over two decades of fencing industry experience to his innovative marketplace. EverFence provides instant quotes for fencing projects and connects customers with qualified contractors. By consistently integrating relevant new technologies, Matt has positioned EverFence as an industry leader, delivering optimal experiences for both customers and fencing professionals.

Resources:

Matt Sivewright’s LinkedIn

Fence Wright

Lion Fencing and Steel Supplies

EverFence

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, Matt is joined by Frank Guimont, a young finance student and record-breaking business professional.

This conversation dives deep into Frank's journey - redefining success through personal growth and leadership. Emphasizing the importance of embracing the process rather than fixating on outcomes, the discussion explores how true success often comes from helping others reach their potential.

You'll discover the impact of mentorship and the foundational values passed down from family. Frank reflects on the influence of his parents, with a focus on work ethic, personal integrity, and the importance of relationships over career status. These values shape his approach to both business and life, offering a perspective that success is not just defined by financial achievements but by the person you become and the relationships you build.

This episode highlights the sacrifices necessary for long-term success, with Frank sharing personal experiences that shaped his career.

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What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The influence of Frank's siblings and parents in shaping his work ethic and balance.
• The importance of making the most out of college years and the benefits of early preparation.
• Frank's early struggles as a freshman intern at College Works, and the turning point that led him to focus on self-improvement and hard work.
• His approach to leadership, focusing on the growth and success of his team members.
• Examples of personal sacrifices Frank has made to achieve success, such as missing social events to focus on work.
• And much more...

Resources:

Frank Guimont’s LinkedIn

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, Matt is joined by Sharon Taylor, widely regarded as the greatest headmaster in the history of Southern California schools.

During this insightful conversation, Matt and Sharon explore the intricate journey of leadership within a unique and impactful field. They explore how passion for education can evolve into higher leadership roles and the complexities that come with that transition. Through candid reflections, the conversation touches on the balance between nurturing personal connections and managing broader organizational responsibilities, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to lead effectively in a setting dedicated to growth and development.

You'll learn about the importance of vision, mission, and values as the cornerstones of any successful endeavor. Sharon shares her experiences of shaping and refining a guiding philosophy that not only supports the internal culture but also helps navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities for long-term sustainability.

This episode offers valuable insights for anyone passionate about education, leadership, or making a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Why the values of kindness and curiosity are essential components of excellence. 
• Sharon's desire to become a teacher from a young age and her work ethic, such as working through high school and college.
• Her involvement in sorority leadership during college, which helped her develop her leadership skills. 
• The importance of clarifying a school's mission, vision, and values to guide decision-making and hiring practices.
• The value of long-term sustainability and the role of the board of trustees in supporting the school's goals.
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Sharon brings over 30 years of experience in education. She began her career as a grade one teacher in the  Los Angeles Unified School District and then a grade two teacher in Washington State.  

She joined St. Mary’s School in 1995. Sharon has served many roles at St. Mary’s including classroom  teacher, International Baccalaureate Coordinator (Middle Years and Primary Years Programmes), Dean of  Academics (All School), Head of Lower School (K-5) and Head of School (All School) 

Sharon is currently serving as the Chief Advancement Officer , where she is leading the school through a  major capital campaign to complete the master facilities plan for the campus. Sharon also serves on the  Board of Trustees for St. Mary’s. 

Sharon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from California State University, Northridge and a Master of  Arts in Educational Administration from Concordia University in Irvine. She also holds a Multiple Subject  Lifetime Credential from California State University, Northridge.  

Sharon is trained through The International Baccalaureate Organization and has attended and led workshops  with IBO. She is an active member of the California Association of Independent Schools and has led  multiple accreditations for the organization.  

Sharon serves on the following additional boards: Providence Hospital, Mission Viejo and RiseHyre.  

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, co-host Sean Phelps is joined by Ian Beacraft, a futurist, AI expert, and CEO of Signal and Cipher.

You'll hear about the journey of an entrepreneur who has carved out a unique path through persistence, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. From an intense early business experience that tested the limits of endurance to later navigating the fast-evolving landscape of innovation, the discussion highlights the mindset and skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Sean and Ian explore how unconventional career paths often lead to groundbreaking opportunities, emphasizing the value of embracing uncertainty and taking risks. A powerful analogy suggests that if a path is clearly visible, it may not be the right one—true growth comes from forging ahead into the unknown. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, the episode paints a picture of success as a series of calculated leaps, rather than a predetermined route.

This episode will leave you with a sense of anticipation, as well as an eagerness to explore what’s on the horizon.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Ian's journey from music major to pre-med to entrepreneurship, influenced by his College Works experience.
• The challenges of working in a large marketing agency, including the overwhelming nature of meetings with large teams.
• The importance of embracing emotions like fear and anger as tools for self-improvement.
• Ian's experience of speaking at South by Southwest and the challenges of creating unique and impactful presentations.
• The transformative nature of entrepreneurial experiences and their long-term impact on one's career.
• And much more...

Resources:

Ian's LinkedIn

Signal and Cipher

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, Matt is joined by Nate Douglas, who is a medical device sales professional, a real estate investor, and a former College Works alumni and one of the few individuals to summit Mount Everest, and all 7 summits.

You'll discover the personal journey that led Nate to push boundaries and tackle challenges that few would even consider. The story weaves through moments of triumph, vulnerability, and the mindset required to conquer daunting feats. 

Go behind the scenes of an intense training process and the sacrifices made to achieve extraordinary goals. With humor and candidness, Nate reflects on their college experiences and the unexpected lessons learned from balancing personal ambitions with an intense work ethic. This theme of choosing the hard road becomes a central part of their narrative, illustrating the broader implications of perseverance and adaptability.

With a mix of adventure, business insight, and practical wisdom, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for anyone interested in pushing their limits, whether in business or life.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How the College Works internship shifted Nate's career path from pre-med to business and sales. 
• His career progression in medical device sales, including roles at Johnson & Johnson and Belmont Medical. 
• The value of calculated risks and the impact of climbing achievements on Nate's personal and professional life.
• The balance between Nate's professional responsibilities and his passion for mountain climbing.
• The importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and influential people.
• And much more...

Resources:

Nate's LinkedIn

In today's episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast, co-host Sean Phelps is joined by R.T. Custer, founder and CEO of Vortic Watch Company, an American watch manufacturer.

During the conversation, R.T. shares insights on a journey that combines passion, creativity, and a relentless drive for success. From the beginnings of a dream to the challenges faced along the way, the discussion dives deep into the realities of entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of surrounding oneself with great people and focusing on one’s strengths.

You'll discover a core lesson in leadership and building a business that goes beyond just selling a product. R.T. explains how cultivating a brand that resonates deeply with people can be as important as the product itself. The advice offered is aimed at aspiring entrepreneurs and those who are navigating the often-turbulent waters of business ownership, with a focus on the creative problem-solving involved in turning an idea into a reality.

Whether you're in engineering, business, or another sector, this episode provides timeless insights into how to thrive in your career and personal life.

Don't miss another episode of The Edge of Excellence podcast. Leave a review and subscribe today!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of pivoting and facing hard things to achieve success.
• R.T.'s transition from corporate jobs at Procter and Gamble and Walmart to founding Vortic Watch Company.
• The necessity of systems and processes for organization and the role of the visionary in a company.
• The value of having a strong network of friends, advisors, and mentors to provide support and guidance.
• The secondary American dream of creating opportunities for others and the satisfaction of seeing employees succeed.
• And much more...

Resources:

R.T.'s LinkedIn

Vortic Watch Company