Bob Wisse - Navigating the Turbulence of Life & Business

When history major turned business titan Rob Basso wrapped his resume in a sandwich to score job interviews, little did he know it was just the appetizer for an extraordinary entrepreneurial feast. Journey with us as Rob recounts his flavorful tales of launching ventures, the emotional weight of selling them, and the fulfilling yet challenging dance of work-life balance. His candid anecdotes serve up a hearty meal for thought on how unconventional strategies and a dash of creativity can be the secret sauce to a successful life and career.

Embark on a rollercoaster ride through the high stakes of business deals with an entrepreneur who has navigated both the adrenaline rush of signing deals and the bittersweet moments that follow. Rob opens the vault to his experiences with selling companies and the introspective aftermath, sharing the personal impacts and the insights on strategic negotiations. Meanwhile, we take the scenic route around topics like private jet ownership, the perception of wealth, and grounding oneself in the face of luxury's lure.

Lastly, Rob's narrative isn't confined to boardrooms—it strides into the nuances of raising a family amidst affluence and the evolving dynamics of entrepreneurship across generations. We travel through the emotional landscapes of an entrepreneur's life post-exit, the pertinence of work-life harmony, and the empowering leap from corporate chains to the freedom of entrepreneurship. It's a dialogue that stretches beyond the horizon of business, offering panoramic views of the human experiences that shape our individual and collective journeys.

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Ever wondered how the wilderness of business and the intricacies of life weave together to form a tapestry of experience worth sharing? Join me, Darren Mass, as I walk the path less traveled with Michael Crotty, the former COO and CFO of Paramount Global Premium Group, and unravel the stories that shaped his illustrious career in the media industry. Our conversation is a treasure map of insights, leading through his involvement with iconic brands like Showtime and BET, and uncovering the profound impact of mentorship, personal growth, and the often-overlooked humanity that breathes life into professional endeavors.

Our journey doesn't shy away from the rugged terrain of business strategy and leadership. We tackle the delicate balance of financial acumen with maintaining an organization's soul, diving into the essence of customer experience and the pivotal role of purpose-driven business. Our dialogue is a candid look at the dynamics of marketing mindfulness and the often tumultuous affair of marrying passion with profession. Michael and I share personal anecdotes and lessons from our respective MBA journeys at NYU, dissecting the strategies that have defined our paths in finance and beyond.

But it's not all business; our expedition ventures into the personal realms of fear, learning, parenting, and the quest for self-discovery. We discuss the confrontations with unexpected moments, the value of embracing risk, and the lifelines of support that guide us through the challenging landscapes of life and business. As we close on our hike, our conversation becomes a campfire story of transformation, a poignant reflection on finding one's way after corporate life, and the rediscovery of what it means to be truly human. So lace up your boots and let's step into the wild together for an enriching excursion that might just inspire your next great adventure.

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Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn scraps into a successful empire while navigating personal and industry challenges? Join me, Darren Mass, as I embark on a revealing hike through Wachung Reservation with Jeremy Royzen, a mastermind in precious metals recycling. This episode peels back the curtain on the raw, sometimes treacherous journey of entrepreneurship, inviting you to witness firsthand how discipline, diversification, and a commitment to environmental sustainability can forge not just a company, but a legacy.

Strap on your hiking boots and prepare to traverse the peaks and valleys of business growth with fascinating stories of our past experiences and the unforeseen paths of personal growth. We discuss the pivotal role of trust in business partnerships, the environmental considerations of electric vehicles, and the strategies that protect against the undercurrent of theft in high-stakes industries. Jeremy's candid revelations offer a perspective that's as precious as the metals he recycles – invaluable insights that could change the way you think about success and sustainability.

As the journey winds down, reflections turn to the media's influence on mental health and the elusive chase for purpose in our lives. Michael Crotty, former heavyweight at Paramount Global Premium Group, joins the conversation to share his transformative experiences stepping off the beaten path. This episode isn't just about climbing to new heights in business; it's about recalibrating your focus, realigning with your goals, and maybe even redefining what a midlife opportunity looks like for you.

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Embark on a journey through the professional networking wilderness with your trail guide Darren Mass and the LinkedIn sage Joe Apfelbaum, as we traverse the pivotal landscape of digital influence. We unfurl the map to achieving a standout presence on LinkedIn, revealing the artistry behind setting SMART goals, generating captivating content, and fostering robust connections. Joe's mastery sheds light on the nuances of navigating post-Microsoft acquisition LinkedIn, offering you a trove of strategies to elevate your profile and, ultimately, your business.

Let's elevate the discourse beyond the platform, shall we? Our discussion peels back the layers on the role of technology in problem-solving for entrepreneurs, with a mix of philosophical musings on life's love affair with challenges and the pitfalls of excessive positivity. Hear how a hiccup in my own LinkedIn coaching was reimagined into a cutting-edge AI venture, showcasing the transformative potential of where you cast your gaze in both life and business.

Wrapping up our expedition, we share heartfelt anecdotes of personal evolution, the intrinsic value of customer service from a CEO's perspective, and the ongoing battle against societal prejudice. As we navigate through the terrains of goal-setting and relationship building, I invite you to consider the importance of extending your reach to touch lives today, tomorrow, and beyond your lifetime. So, tune in, and let's hit the trail together for an episode that promises to arm you with the insights to forge ahead in your professional pursuits with unwavering confidence and renewed inspiration.

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When the colors of a painter's palette blend with the hues of life's rich tapestry, remarkable stories emerge. Join us as we step into the studio of Ricardo Royg, a maestro of the art world known for his hand-cut paper stencil screen-printing prowess. In a candid heart-to-heart, Ricardo unveils the emotional landscape that accompanies the creation and parting of his artwork, revealing the pieces that he holds too dear to ever let go. He narrates the symbiotic relationship between artists and collectors, likening it to a shared odyssey where every brushstroke marks a mile on an infinite road.

Navigating the intertwined paths of art and enterprise, we discover that organization is the unsung hero behind many a masterpiece. Whether it's a late-night lightning bolt of inspiration or a meticulously planned project, Ricardo and I discuss the importance of capturing those fleeting moments and cultivating them into tangible expressions. This conversation meanders through the gardens of personal passions and professional pursuits, affirming the joy and fulfillment that come from engaging every facet of one's being in their work. The harmony of business acumen and creative instinct plays a symphony that echoes throughout our discussion.

Our journey culminates with a reflection on the compass that guides us – our values. As we hike alongside Ricardo, we uncover the profound impact of authenticity, both in the art we create and the life we lead. We delve into the career-defining choices that have shaped Ricardo's path, from pivotal partnerships to the bold leap into full-time artistry. Through stories laced with personal growth and the pursuit of integrity, we affirm the transformative power of art. Tune in for an exploration that transcends the canvas and inspires the heart of every creator and admirer.

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As the leaves in Central Park whispered their secrets, I found myself walking beside the remarkable Nadia Carta, a beacon of hope and transformation whose life's tapestry is woven with threads of liberation, ambition, and the sheer power of technology. Nadia, with her roots in Sardinia and branches reaching high in the New York skyline through her roles at Google and as the entrepreneurial mind behind Sparkier Zeal and 99 Humans, shares her poignant escape from the confines of her Jehovah's Witness upbringing. Her journey underscores the essence of pursuing one's true calling and how technology, particularly AI, magnifies our abilities to touch lives far and wide.

Imagine the sheer potency of AI not as a distant concept, but as a present force, catalyzing change across data analytics and numerous industries, preparing us for a cookie-less future and empowering global communities. Nadia's intimate account of leading a team at Google peels back the layers on the humanity within the machine—how curiosity and the human touch shape the algorithms that are reshaping our world. This episode is also a treasure trove for those stepping into the workforce, igniting a spark of inquisitiveness and the importance of crafting intelligent queries for our ever-learning machines.

Our conversation then takes a turn into the world of podcasting with a spotlight on 99 Humans, a series capturing the unfiltered narratives of industry trailblazers. Nadia and I dissect the challenges and triumphs of podcast creation, from the steadfast goal of recording 99 meaningful conversations to navigating the waters of partnership dynamics. The episode's crescendo is a deep dive into the nurturing of one's 'garden of zeal', pruning life's 'dead ends', and embracing the serene touch of nature, all of which paint a vivid picture of a life lived with purpose and peace. Join us for a heartening story of growth, transformation, and the relentless pursuit of a life that's not just successful, but also truly fulfilling.

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When was the last time you hit a trail, both metaphorically and literally, to discover the heart of entrepreneurship and the spirit of persistence? This episode, we trek alongside Nat Berman, CEO of Uncoached Corp, whose journey from a disenchanted recruiter to a dedicated entrepreneur is a testament to the grit required to forge a path of your own. Climb with us through his early days of blogging, where platforms like Blogspot were the testing grounds for his drive to create and succeed. Nat's candid reflections on the value of aligning business with personal values, and how overcoming technical setbacks can lead to unanticipated success, make for a narrative as engaging as any adventure.

Venture further into our conversation, and you'll uncover the significance of maintaining authenticity and integrity in a world where 'fake it till you make it' is too often the norm. Learn from Nat how genuine originality in messaging can carve out a distinctive space in a crowded market, and why walking the talk is crucial when your business involves advising others. We'll dissect the delicate art of distinguishing oneself amid the saturation of online content and ponder the true meaning of starting a business with integrity at its core. This segment is an expedition through the landscape of modern business practices, seeking the summit of authentic success.

Wrapping up our time with Nat, we share tales that interweave the personal with the professional, including the charm of unexpected encounters and the thrill of competition that pushes us to excel. Whether it's meeting a significant other in an offbeat setting or navigating the peaks and valleys of business rivalries, this episode is a celebration of the human experience. As our hiking week concludes, we emerge from the trails of Central Park stronger and more connected, having embraced the 'good pain' that comes from striving toward a common goal. So grab your earbuds, and prepare to be inspired by a journey that's about much more than just business — it's about the adventure of life itself.

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Embark on a captivating journey with me, Darren Mass, accompanied by the brilliant Adam Posner, founder of NHP Talent Group and podcasting maven. Together, we unravel the complex tapestry of entrepreneurship and the podcast universe, providing an intimate look into the resilience born from career setbacks. Adam's candid retellings from his exit from VaynerMedia fuels our discussion on the transformative nature of adversity, revealing the unexpected doors that swing wide open when one chapter closes.

As we traverse the peaks and valleys of our professional lives, we reflect on the crucial crossroads where career shifts and toxic work environments intersect. I share the story of my "V-day," the unexpected turn in my career trajectory that reshaped my future, underscoring the power of knowing your value and the opportunities that arise when you harness your innate abilities. Adam and I delve into the intricate dynamics of workplace culture, the significance of strong onboarding experiences, and how nurturing one's skills can illuminate the path to success in unexpected industries like recruiting.

The episode culminates with sage advice for navigating the tumultuous seas of business endeavors and personal growth. Through tales of entrepreneurial passion and the strategic savvy that comes with it, we stress the importance of adapting, the art of the handwritten note, and the value of a personal board of advisors. Listeners will walk away with a renewed sense of purpose and an arsenal of strategies for sailing the shifting waters of their careers, fueled by the perseverance and authenticity that define a successful podcast and its host.

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Ever wonder what it's like to stroll through the palisades while chatting with a university president? Well, prepare to experience just that as we journey with Dr. David Munson, the president of Rochester Institute of Technology. Our engaging conversation meanders through the twists and turns of his remarkable career, from his time at the University of Illinois and the University of Michigan to his current role at RIT, reflecting the path we tread - both geographically and intellectually.

We delve into the diverse world of RIT and its unique blend of STEM and performing arts, and we explore the historical significance of Rochester and the Hudson River. Listen in as we navigate the complexities of university boards of trustees, and the business acumen required for the success of an institution. Our discussion also touches on climate change, an issue that is as pressing now as ever before. We share insights into the creation of the Climate Exchange organization, and ponder on our individual and collective roles in addressing this global concern.

Throughout our hike, our conversation veers off into intriguing paths, touching on career choices, altruism, and the often misunderstood correlation between happiness and wealth. As we reflect on our experiences, we also discuss the importance of passion in achieving personal and professional goals. This vibrant episode concludes on a contemplative note, emphasizing the importance of humility. Join us in this enlightening journey, a walk in the great outdoors that offers more than just a breath of fresh air. You're sure to come away with new perspectives and perhaps, a renewed sense of purpose.

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