Leadership starts with leading yourself. In this conversation, Brendan P. Keegan sits down with Margaret C. Andrews, leadership expert, Harvard instructor, and author of Manage Yourself to Lead Others. Margaret shares her journey from UC Berkeley to Deloitte, to teaching at Harvard and MIT, and building the MYLO Center. She reflects on the moment a blunt performance review forced her to confront her lack of self-awareness, and how that turning point led her to decades of research and teaching on self-understanding. Margaret explains her six guiding questions for developing stronger self-awareness, why behaviors matter more than intentions, and how leaders balance empathy with accountability. The discussion covers the evolution of leadership skills, generational differences in the workplace, the lessons parenting teaches about patience and individuality, and the risks leaders face when they stop learning. Margaret also offers practical steps any listener can take this week to strengthen self-awareness and become a more effective leader. If you want to lead others with clarity, compassion, and credibility, start here.

Join Brendan P. Keegan on The Fearless Experience for an inspiring conversation with Maarten Paes, starting goalkeeper for FC Dallas and the Indonesian National Team. Maarten opens up about his journey from backup to clutch performer—recalling his nerve-wracking professional debut at 19, where a last-minute substitution led to a shutout victory. He reveals how resilience shapes his leadership: embracing meditation and mental coaching to silence distractions, seizing unexpected opportunities (like his viral penalty-save debut for Indonesia), and honoring his heritage by representing his grandmother’s homeland in a heartfelt tribute just months before her passing. Discover the unique pressures of leading from the goal—where mistakes are magnified and composure is everything. Maarten shares how he energizes teams from the back, celebrates "suffering" in defense, and balances individual accolades with collective success. Through stories of mentors who grounded him after failures and his viral integration into Indonesian culture (complete with mustache-inspired song tributes!), he unpacks humility’s power—citing Ryan Holiday’s "Ego is the Enemy"—and his legacy goals: trophies, inspiring future generations, and being remembered as "a cool dude who did everything for his craft." A masterclass in mental toughness and purposeful leadership.

From Hockey to Private Equity: Andrew Braithwaite’s Playbook for Fearless Leadership & Long-Term Success Brendan P. Keegan sits down with Andrew Braithwaite, Managing Director at Cynosure Group, to unpack his remarkable journey from NHL prospect to influential private equity leader. Andrew shares candid insights on navigating a non-traditional path, beginning at a non-target school and leveraging relentless networking to break into investment banking at Barclays Capital. Discover how Andrew transitioned into private equity, emphasizing long-term partnerships over transactional deals, and learn the core values—alignment, transparency, and integrity—that drive Cynosure’s mission to “help good people do great things.” He opens up about overcoming setbacks, the power of mentorship, and why sleep and perseverance are critical when facing career challenges.Aspiring finance professionals will gain actionable advice on breaking into competitive industries, while founders and entrepreneurs will appreciate Andrew’s philosophy on building lasting, trust-driven partnerships. Whether discussing his hockey days or the art of business-building, Andrew’s story is a masterclass in resilience, strategic networking, and leading with purpose. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends grit, wisdom, and a playbook for fearless leadership. Listen now on brendanpkeegan.com and join the fearless journey.

In this inspiring episode of The Fearless Experience, Brendan P. Keegan speaks with Dr. David Rosenberg, one of the world’s leading facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons—and an acclaimed abstract artist.

Dr. Rosenberg shares the personal story that sparked his passion for medicine, the long and winding road of surgical training, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that propelled him to the top of his field. But Dr. Rosenberg’s talents don’t stop at the operating table.

He opens up about his creative process as a large-format painter, his love of fishing, and his artistic and entrepreneurial partnership with his wife, singer-songwriter JELA.

From building a reputation from scratch to mentoring the next generation of surgeons, Dr. Rosenberg reveals what it means to blend science, art, and leadership with passion and authenticity. This episode is packed with wisdom for aspiring doctors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone striving to live—and lead—fearlessly.

Join Brendan P. Keegan on The Fearless Experience as he sits down with Adam Norris—serial entrepreneur, founder of Pure Electric (one of the world’s fastest-growing e-scooter brands), and visionary investor behind Horatio Investments. In this candid conversation, Adam shares his journey from growing up on a rural farm with undiagnosed dyslexia to becoming a titan of industry, driven by relentless curiosity and a zero-distraction mindset.
He also opens up about raising his son, Formula 1 superstar Lando Norris, revealing how instilling values, kindness, and resilience paved the way for Lando’s rise to the top of the racing world. From cold-calling sales jobs to IPOing a billion-dollar company, Adam’s story is a masterclass in turning adversity into advantage. Learn why he believes true success lies in solving global problems, building "mass premium" brands, and staying laser-focused on excellence—even if it takes 30 years. Perfect for entrepreneurs, parents, and anyone chasing greatness, this episode is packed with actionable insights on leadership, legacy, and the power of relentless pursuit.

Visit brendanpkeegan.com for more fearless conversations.

Brendan P. Keegan chats with Eric Price, Managing Director and Head of US Capital Markets at CIBC, for a candid and inspiring conversation about resilience, networking, and leadership in the financial services industry.

Eric shares his unconventional journey into finance, from receiving his first stock certificate as a Bar Mitzvah gift to cold-calling his way into Wall Street with relentless determination. He opens up about the early rejections, the hustle of sending hundreds of resumes, and the pivotal moment that landed him his first job—thanks to an unexpected connection at a New York City novelty store.

The discussion dives into Eric’s leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of leading by example, fostering genuine relationships, and the power of networking—both in business and beyond. With an eclectic circle of friends ranging from pro athletes to Hollywood stars, Eric reveals how authenticity and a passion for connecting people have shaped his career and personal life.

You will also hear about Eric’s charitable work, including CIBC’s Miracle Day, where he brings together celebrities and financial leaders to raise millions for children’s charities. Wrapping up with actionable advice for aspiring finance professionals, Eric stresses the value of having a market view, embracing failure, and staying curious.
 
Key Takeaways: 
• How resilience and persistence can break down even the toughest barriers.
• Why networking isn’t just about contacts—it’s about building meaningful relationships.
• The surprising link between a Wall Street career and an early job in "retail."
• How giving back can open doors and create unexpected opportunities.
• Essential advice for young professionals: Have a view, defend it, and learn from being wrong.
  
Watch or listen now and subscribe to The Fearless Experience for more candid conversations with leaders who redefine success.
 
Follow Brendan P. Keegan: brendanpkeegan.com

In this episode of The Fearless Experience, Brendan P. Keegan sits down with George Mattson, CEO of Wheels Up, a leading global private aviation provider.

With over 25 years of leadership experience—from IBM and Goldman Sachs to his current role—George shares invaluable insights on career pivots, fearless leadership, and the power of continuous learning.

George reflects on his unconventional journey, starting as an electrical engineering major at Duke University, transitioning from sales at IBM to investment banking at Goldman Sachs, and ultimately stepping into the CEO role at Wheels Up. He discusses how his early experiences—moving across six schools worldwide and embracing change—shaped his adaptability and problem-solving mindset.

George’s fearless approach—running toward challenges, embracing uncertainty, and broadening his skills—offers a masterclass for emerging and seasoned leaders alike. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about owning your career, writing new chapters, and leading with authenticity.Listen now to learn how to live and lead fearlessly!

In this episode of The Fearless Experience, Brendan P. Keegan welcomes Richard Dean, CEO and Team Principal of United Autosports, to explore the intersection of motorsport, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Richard shares his journey from growing up at racetracks as the son of a racing enthusiast to becoming a 24 Hours of Le Mans-winning driver and co-founding a globally successful motorsport team with childhood friend Zak Brown (CEO of McLaren Racing).
Richard opens up about the unglamorous realities of building a business—like starting with a red wine-fueled brainstorm instead of a polished business plan—and the relentless drive required to stay competitive in endurance racing. He delves into the challenges of balancing on-track performance with off-track business decisions, the art of motivating a team through setbacks, and the importance of surrounding yourself with mentors and grounded voices (like his 81-year-old colleague who reminds him, "We’re not digging coal for a living!”).


Key Takeaways Include:

• Embracing the entrepreneurial journey—why flexibility matters more than a perfect plan.
• Leading under pressure—how to navigate 24-hour races (and 24/7 business demands).
• Work-life balance—the sacrifices and rewards of a career in motorsport.
• Advice for aspiring professionals—why persistence and problem-solving trump pedigree.

Whether you’re a racing fan, an entrepreneur, or someone seeking inspiration to turn passion into a career, Richard’s story is a masterclass in fearless leadership.


Watch or listen now and subscribe to The Fearless Experience for more candid conversations with leaders who redefine success.


Follow Brendan P. Keegan: brendanpkeegan.com

In this episode of Fearless Leadership, Brendan is joined by British racing phenom Phil Hanson, who, at just 24 years old, has already etched his name into the history books by becoming the youngest British driver to ever win the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Despite his youth, Philip is a veteran of over 50 professional races and quickly established himself as one of endurance racing's brightest talents when he took the LMP2 class victory at Le Mans 2020 with United Autosports. He shares his inspirational journey from go-karting to sports cars, the challenges of transitioning to endurance events like Le Mans, and provides a behind-the-scenes look at his life-changing debut at this grueling race. Through captivating storytelling, Philip offers insights into developing the focus, resilience, and fearlessness required to compete at motorsport's highest level and push past self-doubt to achieve legendary status at the peak of his daring profession.

This week's Fearless Leader is Marc Polymeropoulos, one of the most decorated CIA officers of the modern era. With a 26-year career in public service, Marc shares leadership lessons gleaned from managing high-stakes crises around the world. Marc takes us behind the curtain of the secretive CIA, from tracking Osama bin Laden in the 1990s to thwarting terrorist attacks today. He recounts the shocking day in 2009 when seven CIA officers were killed in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan and his face-to-face interview with the bomber. Marc translates crisis management skills from the CIA to the civilian world, advising listeners on leading under pressure. Whether averting global catastrophes or everyday emergencies, Marc demonstrates how clarity, decisiveness, and relying on your core team are key to navigating any storm and becoming the Fearless Leader you're destined to be.

About Marc Polymeropoulos: Marc served 26 years in the CIA before retiring from the Senior Intelligence Service in June 2019. His positions included field and headquarters operational assignments covering the Middle East, Europe, Eurasia and CounterTerrorism. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Intelligence Medal, the Intelligence Commendation Medal, and the Intelligence Medal of Merit.