Up2: Recent Episodes

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Refreshingly candid conversations with some of today's most humble leaders. Adam Kaufman dives into topics often left unexplored. His guests’ challenges, fears, and motivations show what it takes to become a humble leader.

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Seven years after her first visit to the Up2 studio, our favorite public company CEO, Sheryl Palmer returns following the announcement that the esteemed Berkshire Hathaway is acquiring Taylor Morrison for nearly $7 billion. In this wide-ranging conversation, she reflects on what drew Berkshire to TM, the power of combining multiple homebuilders under one platform, and her vision for delivering better housing solutions at greater scale. Sheryl also discusses her personal leadership philosophy, the influence of early mentors like Ray Kroc (McDonald's), and how she stays grounded while leading through major transformation. She shares thoughts on innovation in homebuilding, the importance of community, and balancing a high-impact career with family life.

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Ben duPont grew up with one of the most recognizable last names in American business — but he chose to forge his own path beyond the family empire. And while most of us don't know what it's like to have our name as a brand, many of us do know what it's like to consider following our family's expectations or chart our own course. In this wide-ranging conversation, the co-founder of Yet2 and partner at Chartline Capital Partners shares how he left the duPont company to pioneer open innovation, why he’s more optimistic than ever about the future, and what’s really changing in the age of AI. Ben breaks down the key difference between the last tech wave and today.

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In perhaps the most personal and emotionally raw episode of Up2 ever released, host Adam Kaufman shares the full, never-before-publicly-heard 2001 AA convention speech given by his late father, Bill Kaufman.Recorded live in Myrtle Beach, SC in 2001— about one year before Bill passed away —this is more than a recovery story. It is a heartfelt confession, a stand-up comedy routine, a raw apology, and a profound testimony of hope, all wrapped into one unforgettable hour. Another Up2 guest, Special Ambassador Doug Holladay, likes to remind us that "we're all born into someone else's story." Here we learn about the story our host was born into.... This episode is for anyone who has struggled with addiction, loved someone who has, or simply needs to be reminded that no one is beyond redemption. It is funny, heartbreaking, and deeply inspiring all at once.

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In this inspiring episode of the Up2 Podcast, host Adam sits down with Dr. Rene Caissie — a former maxillofacial surgeon, department chief, and repeat entrepreneur — who left a successful medical career in Canada to found Medeloop, an AI-native platform that deploys intelligent agents on massive healthcare datasets to accelerate clinical research, discover new biomarkers, reduce costs, and improve operational efficiency in hospitals and life sciences. Dr. Caissie shares his remarkable journey: building and exiting an EMR company, moving his family to Silicon Valley, studying at Stanford GSB, and now leading a fast-growing AI health tech company valued at over $100 million. He opens up about the emotional side of entrepreneurship, the importance of relationships, managing board pressure, staying grounded through extreme hobbies and family life, and why he believes AI will fundamentally transform how medicine is practiced. A must-listen for physicians, entrepreneurs, healthcare leaders, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of AI and medicine.

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What does it feel like to sell your company after toiling and growing your 'baby'for more than 30 years?Fred Koury made the big decision to sell his successful Smart Business company less than a year ago, and we were fortunate to earn his trust and have him sit with us to discuss not only that exit but also what he's Up2 now.    On special location at the comfy VividFront studio, tune in to get inside the impressive mind and big heart of one highly regarded human being.

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We love talking to resilient winners. Hard drivers who take on whatever challenges come their way who find the strength to not only overcome but to achieve and grow time and again. Our guest today lives by the mantra, "There is always going to be a better tomorrow,' which is particularly impressive given he had to overcome getting hit by a truck as a teenager; being fired and lied to by the organization he built into a national model; and even a serious health diagnosis soon after. Tune in for this riveting and meaningful conversation with our super-impressive friend, former CEO and current entrepreneur, Akram Boutros, MD.

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Tune in to hear our impressive guest's aspirational story about life as an entrepreneur. From mowing lawns in middle school to building Juniper Square, an industry-changing technology business now more than 10 years old and global in its reach.

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All of us face inevitable curves in the road as we navigate the journey of life. So it's valuable to learn how effective leaders deal with these challenges, for as Albert Einstein wisely observed, 'in the middle of difficulty lies opportunity." These are some of our favorite segments where Up2 guests shared reflections on how they overcome challenges.

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Today's guest leaned into his fondness for business and passion for sports, building a career that began with the law and now excels in the growing world of sports private equity. Tune in for an authentic conversation with this energetic counselor driven by both his family and his heritage.

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There's something special about super-accomplished business leader, Joel Peterson. He teaches some of the most popular courses at Stanford; he led JetBlue Airways when they topped the industry's customer satisfaction rankings; and he was at the helm when Tramel Crow was the largest real estate development company in the U.S. His newest book, Juggling Glass and Rubber Balls, chronicles how this father of 7 successful children (31 grandchildren!) navigates parenting and career and the inevitable curves in the road. Exuding authentic humility in spite of all of his achievements, Joel embodies the ethos of Up2. Tune in for Joel's wisdom career, intellectual and spiritual maturity, goal-setting, and parenting.

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There's something special about super-accomplished business leader, Joel Peterson. He teaches some of the most popular courses at Stanford; he led JetBlue Airways when they topped the industry's customer satisfaction rankings; and he was at the helm when Tramel Crow was the largest real estate development company in the U.S. His newest book, Juggling Glass and Rubber Balls, chronicles how this father of 7 successful children (31 grandchildren!) navigates parenting and career and the inevitable curves in the road. Exuding authentic humility in spite of all of his achievements, Joel embodies the ethos of Up2. Tune in for Joel's wisdom career, intellectual and spiritual maturity, goal-setting, and parenting.

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What a thrilling opportunity to welcome Three Star Air Force General Laura Lenderman back to our program, such a humble leader in spite of her accomplishments both in the air and in military leadership. In a rare opportunity to speak with such a high-ranking, active duty military officer, Gen. Lenderman describes her role at Joint-Base Pearl Harbor and how she handles this important command, keeping an eye on the Pacific Ocean, China, and so many other priorities. Adam and the General explore both her motivations and how she's dealt with challenges, and why she continues to want to serve this nation and our world.

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Jimmy Lynn is a pioneer in every sense of the word; shaping the past, present, and future of digital sports and people's lives. As a former VP of AOL sports, he helped develop it into thee global sports destination. As the founder of his consulting practice and co-founder of Kiswe Mobile, he's creating the future of digital spaces for sports and events. As for the future--Jimmy is mentoring it.Through teaching at Georgetown's business school and personally mentoring dozens of young adults under his wing, Jimmy is instilling the next generation with the tools for success and fulfillment; practicing and inspiring the message of "paying it forward." And that's only the tip of the Jimmy Lynn iceberg. From sports documentaries to DJ-ing, tune in to today's episode to discover everything else Jimmy Lynn was, is, and will be Up2!

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Although he will tell you they are, The Steelers aren't the best thing to come from Pittsburgh -- that would be Lou Shapiro. Hailing from UPitt, Lou was the former president and CEO of Hospital for Special Surgery; ranked #1 for orthopedics in the nation for 14 straight years under his leadership. Currently, he advises and is a board member for a number of companies -- further applying his strategic mind in fresh and exciting ventures. Tune in to how Lou cultivates a meaningful corporate atmosphere, tackles big decisions, and all the new things he's Up2!

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While the brands and characters he helped create are among the most recognized in the world, on a personal level this marketing genius practices the 'scarcity model.' We couldn't be more thrilled to have Jeff Charney with us for his first ever podcast appearance, sharing his journey from small town South Carolina to the pinnacle of corporate marketing.

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Wikipedia refers to him as the Co-Founder of the Blockchain. But Dr. Stornetta identifies himself first as a 'Grandfather,' on his LinkedIn profile, illustrating perfectly how humbly this Stanford PhD (physics) and CEO thinks about what matters most. What a privilege it is to get inside the mind of such an accomplished yet meek achiever, as Scott (his preference) previews where he feels blockchain technology will benefit us most and also how faith and science-based worldviews can co-exist.

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Dr David Agus is unofficially but quite likely the most famous and sought after physician in the world. Always on the front end of medical innovation, countless patients around the globe have benefited from his care. He's written multiple New York Times bestsellers, including The End of Illness, and his expertise and vision inspired Oracle founder Larry Elllison to donate $200 million to create perhaps the most advanced center in the world. He led Steve Jobs' medical team for years and he routinely serves on U.S. and international health panels alongside the most important health leaders in the world. All while remaining humble and modest and with a thirst for improving results for the betterment of all society.

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Having grown up and gone to school back east, you would never think that Beverly Hills' most connected dealmaker and active civic leader was not born and raised in L.A. How did he do it? How did this motivated and driven entrepreneur with a passion for helping others use kindness to make it to the top of one of the world's most dynamic towns? In a world that often seems to reward the superficial, tune in to learn more about this humble leader and all he has achieved in real estate, publishing, sports, banking, and a multitude of other pursuits.

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After mastering protocol at the highest levels at both the White House and the U.S. State Dept., Shelby started a business to serve literally the most famous and influential humans on the planet. Pope John Paul II; Nelson Mandela; President Reagan..... and throughout her impressive career has lived a life exuding and promoting civility.

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After losing sales because he couldn't accept credit cards as a young, independent artist, this glass blower invented Square (NYSE: SQ), enabling not only his artist friends but literally millions of small business owners to process credit cards with mobile phones. Now, this remarkably humble billionaire is building his next transformational idea, all while remaining unchanged from his family-centric, Midwestern roots. In spite of his obvious success and many gifts, our latest Up2 guest is so self-deprecating, he reminds himself to, 'Shut up and try not to embarrass yourself.' ... Could just be our most meaningful conversation yet.

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Born into perhaps America's most watched and revered family, Tim Shriver decided to focus on education for his first major pursuit.  Recognized for his passionate efforts as the worldwide leader of the Special Olympics, a few years back Dr Shriver delivered the most powerful presentation I ever witnessed... Which made me thrilled to have him in our Up2 studio for a conversation about spirituality, dignity, and what role we all play in making America the best she can be.

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Having spent 20 years helping to write the Google story, Ted Souder is now applying his creative mind to help cities, companies and consumers around the world think about a more digital future. A leading member of the Chicago business community, this technologist authentically shares on his first in-studio appearance on the Up2 podcast. 

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Talking his way into a Hughes Helicopter business in Indonesia just after graduating from Stanford, Jim Jameson's career as a global business man seemed evident early on. 120 countries later, after meeting dozens of heads of state, and identifying and backing countless entrepreneurs worldwide, our guest owns a myriad of companies in diverse industries: Publishing in Poland; Agriculture in the Middle East; Motion Pictures in Vietnam; Aerospace in Los Angeles; E-commerce in China; he even has 25 employees in the Ukraine... But this sophisticated thinker does not only ponder commerce. On this edition of the Up2 podcast we also discuss how Jim works to see the best in people, even his classmate convicted of murder, and why he continues to visit a French monastary annualy to retreat silently to explore life's biggest questions.

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He transformed his family business into a global leader in the industry. He's passionate abut his family, motorcycles, and living life with boundless optimism and joy. Tune in for this meaningful conversation with Dirk Junge, former chairman and CEO of Pitcairn, a world leader in family offices and generational wealth. Considered a true thought leader in family enterprises, Dirk divulges how his own family's combination of privilege and tragic loss inform who he is and how he aims to inspire others to live life to the fullest.

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Peter Goldstone is the chairman of GovExec, a large digital media platform gobbling up many of the most important communication and data assets serving government. This dynamic leader's rise was not without loss and pain,however, yet today he's living life to the fullest ... always smiling, always humble.  Operating out of D.C. but with his New York-hometown still in his heart, tune in here as this magnetic achiever authentically shares about not only his accomplishments but also how he managed to navigate some considerable curves in the road along the way.

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Andre Pienaar is the founder and CEO of C5, a venture capital firm operating at the intersection of commerce and government. On the boards of companies in 4 different countries, this British national shows a passion for America's strength and excellence greater than many of his U.S.-born colleagues. Tune in to hear how this national security and intelligence expert found himself labeled as a 'conniving intelligence officer,' and an 'evil foreign agent,' by the president of one major nation, all while working in pursuit of what he calls mission capital.

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Many of the largest and most-respected organizations in the U.S. turn to Dale and Diversified Search when they want to find the best CEOs and board members in the marketplace.  And unlike most of his peers in executive search, Dale himself is a board member of several high-profile companies like Chick-fil-a, Special Olympics, Northwestern Mutual, and Morehouse College. At the pinnacle of his profession, Dale does not forget where he came from and is convinced that we grow the most when we overcome major challenges.  

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Shelby Coffey attained the highest positions in his chosen field of journalism, as both the award-winning editor of the Los Angeles Times and also as President of CNNfn. With a rare combination of intellectual wit and substantial brain power, this Up2 guest provides meaningful commentary on the new media and technology, on big life choices, and on what it feels like to work in the public eye and have all of your efforts so broadly scrutinized. 

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Dan Richards is a true entrepreneur, having started numerous businesses and considering many more.  After nearly 30 years of building his chemical testing business, why did he decide to sell his largest company?  Meet yet another super-successful human being who has remained humble throughout his journey... And how extreme stress almost derailed him along the way.   

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San-Diego-based Mark Tager, MD, has practiced medicine, been a successful entrepreneur and is a global leader in creative marketing. He's the author of 10 books and has given more than 1,000 speeches. He even created his own personality profile system and is a recognized expert in anti-aging. This wide-ranging discussion will be valuable to anyone hoping to become the best possible versions of themselves.   

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What does it feel like to negotiate deals with some of the biggest names in Hollywood and in business? And how do you decide, 'what's next?" after achieving major success at a young age?  This Washington D.C. power broker authentically shares on the importance of knowing your own strengths (and weaknesses), and the influential role honest mentors can play in your life, during this meaningful episode of the Up2 podcast.

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Rick Goings: How does a man who left home at 16; quit college; and sold encyclopedias door-to-door end up running a successful $2 billion enterprise with worldwide reach? Our latest Up2 guest is a U.S. Navy veteran; has served as the global chairman of 4,000 Boys and Girls Clubs; and he is such a passionate leader that he became known for sweating through multiple shirts when he pumped up his teams on stage.

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Washington, D.C.-based Jodie McLean leads Edens, a national retail real estate development company with more than 115 properties. Also a member of the Federal Reserve Board; a catalyst for female founders; and so much more, this Up2 guest authentically shares about her mission to enrich communities through bringing people together, and how she 'sorts' through initiatives to lean on her strengths to pursue the most compelling opportunities at home, at work, and in society at-large.

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Palo Alto, California-based Pankaj Shah, lives and works in the heart of Silicon Valley. He has founded several companies and has invested directly in even more. A new social network focusing on emotion rather than accomplishment; an innovative insurance company; even a new gin business! Our guest today builds bridges between the hyper-fast world of NBA players, music superstars, and some of the biggest names in venture capital, managing to always remain humble and helpful in spite of his success.  

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Washington, D.C. based David Ciccone and his family epitomize the American Dream.  Both his parents grew up in modest Western European villages and came to America with huge hearts and big ideas for a bright future. Just one generation later, David is now leading his family and an extremely successful business of his own, serving CEOs and high net worth individuals throughout the U.S.  In spite of his success as the managing director of CTH Group, David's mind and heart never stray far from his nurturing and intuitive heritage. CTH has become one of the largest wealth management firm's on the East Coast, and in this episode of the Up2 podcast David shares with Adam some of the secrets to his success.

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Philippe Bourguignon has travelled constantly since his early twenties. Only recently has he been forced to stay in one place for any length of time and even this is propelling him forward. Always one to learn and seek new adventures and challenges, Philippe has always risen to the occasion and as a result has served as the CEO of Euro Disney, Chairman and CEO of Club Med, and as the co-CEO of the World Economic Forum. He currently spends a majority of his time advising other business leaders through his role in the Washington D.C. based venture capital firm, Revolution.

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Kalika Joy Nacion Yap is a three-peat entrepreneur; a published author and true influencer.  Based in Santa Monica, California this successful founder recently had her "Little Brand Book" published by HarperCollins, and she's been featured in many of the nation's most-respected publications.  Born in the Philippines; university in New York; and businesses in SoCal and Hawaii -- this global citizen energizes with her creativity and positive drive.

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Jean-Claude Kihn, Ph.D, is a renaissance man. A true global citizen, Jean-Claude speaks six languages and has lived all over the world. Jean-Claude’s professional successes are a result of his dedication and willingness to learn as well as his steady evaluation of self in order to improve. His constant learning and practice in leadership eventually led to his having held 17 different positions at Goodyear before ultimately being promoted to President of Goodyear for Europe, Middle East and Africa. He has now turned most of his attention to mentoring young executives and spending time with family and in nature.

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A man who went from being an All-American high school football star, to homeless and on drugs in less than a year. Waverly Willis has overcome so much: drug addiction; chronic homelessness, and at one point, running for his life; severe obesity and cancer too... Yet with seemingly limitless resilience and with faith and persistence, today's Up2 guest is a successful entrepreneur, community leader, and family man. And even though lawmakers seek his advice, and media outlets want to tell his story, Waverly never forgets what he's been through and that he's just a regular guy.

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Dr. David Agus is one of the most sought after physicians in the world. Apple co-founder Steve Jobs had Dr. Agus lead his medical team for years; More recently, Larry Ellison, the billionaire chairman of Oracle, asked Dr. Agus to create the most innovative medical research center in the U.S. And Howard Stern even calls our Up2 guest, his doctor! Most importantly, Dr. Agus deploys his passion for health to treat all of his patients with an informed-intensity and willingness to do all that is possible in pursuit of the "End of Illness."

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John DiJulius travels the globe working with the most-respected companies on their customer experience. Starbucks. Disney. The Ritz Carlton.... Having overcome significant challenges in his own life -- like being asked to retake every year of elementary school -- John ultimately failed out of college, and also dealt with major family challenges.  Successfully navigating these curves in the road, John has built two award-winning businesses, and is now asked to speak around the world about his positive outlook and his commitment to service excellence.   John tells every story with a smile and he motivates and inspires everyone around him.

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Brigadier General Lenderman became the youngest general in the Air Force two years ago, after serving as a war-time pilot and on the Joint Chiefs staff. Today she is responsible for thousands of people and billions in our Defense budget, yet she is convinced that leadership still comes down to relationships and love. Tune in as Gen. Lenderman gives Adam a rare glimpse into the daily life of an active duty general.

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Ted Souder has spent his career on the leading edge of information technology. His ability to understand the importance that tech plays in the lives of individuals and businesses has led him to work at some of the most well known companies in the world, including America Online and Google for the past 20 years. Listen in to discover what Ted sees next on the tech horizon.

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Season 2 saw another full lineup of remarkably accomplished and humble leaders, -- a Heisman Trophy winner; a world-renowned heart surgeon; and several business leaders. Join Adam Kaufman, Dave Douglas (producer), and special guest, Madison Cichocki as they reflect on some of their favorite moments from the season.

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Doug Holladay has spent his career focusing on Meaning, Authenticity and becoming 'a better version of ourselves.' Hoping to fill some of the void now present in everyone's lives as we find ourselves coping with a society nearly shut down during the Coronavirus outbreak, we invited this former Ambassador, White House advisor, current Georgetown professor and founder of PathNorth, to discuss the positive aspects of being alone; the merits of practicing Gratitude; and how to get comfortable with who we are.

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Fred Koury started his business career by subcontracting weekly chores to kids in the neighborhood. Today, his list of accomplishments and business success stories have become extensive. Fred Koury is the President and CEO of Smart Business Network, a multi-faceted company serving the business community nationwide. Listen as he freely shares on how he makes big decisions, on the importance of mentoring, and many valuable life lessons regarding the intersection of faith and ethics while running a company.

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Dr Marc Gillinov is the chairman of Heart Surgery at the Cleveland Clinic, ranked #1 in the U.S. for more than 20 straight years. Considered by many to be the most sought-after heart surgeon in the world, today's guest is the epitome of humble. This revealing conversation delves into Dr Gillinov's remarkable achievements; how he manages stress while saving the lives of his patients; and an authentic dialogue about our guest's uncanny ability to always make it to the very top of his pursuits.

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Bernie Moreno was born in Colombia and moved to the United States at just 5 years old. Mom and Dad, along with 6 siblings crammed into a 2 bedroom condo and began a new life. They took a risk to reinvent themselves. That same determination, belief in self, and tenacity was passed on to Bernie. As an adult, he risked everything to purchase an underperforming car dealership, eventually having over 15 car dealerships under ownership. He's now turned his attention to the emerging technology of blockchain.

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In this episode of Up2, Adam sits down with Heisman Trophy-winner and Cleveland Browns quarterback, Baker Mayfield. The former #1 draft pick reflects authentically on family; on goal-setting; and on handling the pressures of life in the NFL. Special appearances by his wife, Emily Mayfield, and entrepreneur Bobby George, make this a rare conversation you won't want to miss.

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Usually the one asking all the questions, there have been inquiries to learn more about Adam. How does he meet the people he knows? What has his career path been? And what makes him the perfect host for a podcast about success and humility?

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Scott Wolstein has presided over a real estate empire with billions invested in the ground all over the United States. However, his legacy is about investment in people. Scott has always strived to be a compassionate person, but in recent years, his focus has shifted further toward his family and his philanthropic efforts. Listen in to find out how his faith both informs and confirms his drive for excellence in business and compassion for the people in his life.

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Joe Pulizzi is known as the Godfather of content marketing, but he knows the value in setting work aside from time to time. He has helped some of the biggest companies in the world with their marketing efforts and now, his concepts are heard in classrooms all over the world, helping to shape the next generation of marketing professionals. In recent years, a large portion of Joe’s attention has shifted to helping people in need and investing time in those most important to him.

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Philippe Bourguignon meanders and dreams. His creativity and passion has led him on adventures around the world and placed him at the top of many successful companies and renowned organizations. He has served as the CEO of Euro Disney, Chairman and CEO of Club Med, and the co-CEO of the World Economic Forum. Listen in to find out what Philippe Bourguignon has been Up2 and what can be learned from him.

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Ambassador Doug Holladay has a lot of knowledge to share. Having a career so varied as to include being US Special Ambassador to South Africa, advisor to several US Presidents, an Investment Banker at Goldman Sachs, teaching at Georgetown University, and many other positions, there are countless reasons to pay attention to what he has to say. Listen in to his conversation with Adam Kaufman about what really matters in life.

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Business owner and powerbroker, Umberto Fedeli, joins Adam for the final session of this three-part miniseries. Throughout this episode, a special focus is given to the importance of relationships and the treatment of others in both business and personal life. Umberto also shares some life lessons that he has learned during his 40 years in business, philanthropy, and politics.

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Business owner and powerbroker, Umberto Fedeli, joins Adam for the second session of this three-part miniseries. Umberto shares business and investing advice, featuring special tips for those just starting out in the investment world. With 40 years experience in business, philanthropy, and politics, he also focuses on the importance of balance.

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Coming out of the first season of Up2 it became clear that the interview with successful business owner and powerbroker, Umberto Fedeli, resonated with listeners. Adam wanted to give listeners a chance to hear more from this experienced veteran of nearly 40 years in business, in philanthropy, and in politics. Today he’s back in the studio for the first of a three-part miniseries. During this special series we are going to focus on his experience in business and investing, featuring advice for beginners.

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In this final episode of the Up2 season, Adam interviews Sheryl Palmer, the CEO of Taylor Morrison, one of the largest home builders in the U.S. and traded on the New York Stock Exchange. She's won countless awards, overcome a significant health challenge, and through it all humbly leads thousands of employees with a kind leadership style, all-too-rare in today's competitive world. She authentically opens up during the discussion with Adam, so let's find out what Sheryl is Up2! Adam@up2foundation.or

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In this episode Adam talks to Congressman Anthony Gonzalez, one of the youngest members of the US. House of Representatives. He is a former NFL wide receiver; a college All American; and graduate of Stanford Business School. The Congressman speaks candidly with us about his former football career, what it’s like to learn the ins and outs of Congress, and the importance of his family. Let’s find out what Congressman Anthony Gonzalez is up to!

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Adam invites into the studio Stewart Kohl, the co-CEO of global private equity firm, Riverside, who spends nearly as much of his time on charitable pursuits as he does overseeing the more than 400 transactions made by his firm. Let’s find out what Stewart is up to!

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In this episode Adam interviews Umberto Fedeli, the CEO of a national insurance firm and an active private investor. Known for his first class hospitality and powerful political influence, Umberto has built his highly successful career around helping others. Adam's guest teaches us the importance of family heritage, and what it means to do what you love. Let's find out what Umberto Fedeli is Up2! 

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In this episode Adam interviews Eric Chen. Eric is a Stanford graduate and silicon valley venture capitalist. He and his wife co-founded Tiny Prints with two other Stanford classmates (acquired by Shutterfly for $340 million), and he's also the founding partner of OVO Fund. Eric and Adam discuss investing in startups, the importance of finding a good mentor, and the legacy that Eric hopes to leave behind. Let’s find out what Eric Chen is up to!

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In this episode Adam interviews Charu Ramanathan, an influential entrepreneur who earned her PhD in Biomedical Engineering. Listen in as Charu tells us about the lessons she’s learned, how she became a better leader along the way, her view on parenting, and the importance of role modeling.

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In this episode, Adam talks with his good friend Bobby George. Bobby never let his health challenges prevent him from creating the restaurant empire he has today. Instead, he used his knowledge of healthy eating practices to open the first all non-GMO restaurant, Townhall. He continues to grow his portfolio as he expands into private equity, working with companies where he knows he can make a difference. Let’s find out what Bobby is up to!

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For the first official episode of the Up2 season, Adam Kaufman interviews Marc Blinder, founder of one of the hottest blockchain companies in Silicon Valley. Marc explains the use of API and blockchain in our everyday lives and tells us what he’s learned from the failure of his second company Emerge. There’s much more to him than your typical business leader: Marc has pink hair, attends burning man, tried to take on Microsoft, and has big ideas for the future! Let’s find out what Marc is up to!

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The Up2 podcast identifies and showcases the most accomplished and interesting leaders in business, medicine, and the public arena. Our hope is that by giving voice to these impressive leaders (who remain humble in spite of the success and attention they've garnered), we can inspire others to lead with humility in their own lives.