Business &amp; Branding

Business &amp; Branding Archives

Stay ahead in business: strategies and insights for success

The classroom falls silent as Selena Gomez leans in, creating an intimate moment with a high school student. It’s not a typical celebrity appearance but a carefully designed event that transforms a simple space into a powerful platform for mental health awareness. This is the magic of Hallie Seltzer’s event production—where every detail is intentional, every moment purposeful.



When Google.org committed $10 million to expanding <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/5-ways-to-turn-mental-challenges-into-unstoppable-strengths/">mental health</a> resources for young people, they didn’t just want an announcement. They wanted an experience that would truly connect. Working with Seltzer’s <a href="https://pinpoint-productions.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pinpoint Productions</a>, they created an event beyond the typical press conference. Students created vision boards, engaged in meaningful conversations and watched as their experiences were validated by a global pop star and California’s leadership.



“It just was one of those events where you could see the lights turning on in the eyes of the kids, the teachers and the room,” Seltzer recalls.



Where most event producers see a room, Seltzer sees potential for transformation. This fundamental difference has been the driving force behind Pinpoint, the groundbreaking event design company rewriting the rules of corporate and nonprofit gatherings.







<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-closing-the-industry-gap">Closing the industry gap</h2>



A decade into her career, Seltzer was fed up with the event industry’s cookie-cutter approach. While other agencies focused on creative execution and technical precision, she craved something deeper—events that were truly meaningful.



“Events are more than just logistics and aesthetics,” Seltzer says. “They’re about making meaning.” Her frustration fueled her motivation. At 29, with nearly 10 years of experience producing massive activations for brands like Bank of America and Samsung, she saw a critical gap. Most agencies were simply executing tasks. She wanted to create experiences that could shift perspectives and inspire action.



Pinpoint Productions launched not from a meticulously crafted business plan but from an unexpected opportunity. A client who wanted to work with Seltzer asked if she had a company—and in that moment, she decided she did.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-generic-events">Beyond generic events</h2>



Her approach was revolutionary in an industry often focused on spectacle. Seltzer wanted every event to have a <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/what-is-my-purpose-in-life/">purpose</a>, to be designed specifically for the community it served. Whether launching a product or hosting a conference, her team would ask: “Who’s in the room? What context matters? What deeper connection can we create?”



This wasn’t just event planning—it was storytelling through shared experiences. Her approach reached new heights with another Google.org project supporting economic opportunity. Instead of a generic volunteer experience, Pinpoint Productions designed nine region-specific events with <a href="https://www.feedingamerica.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Feeding America</a>. In Mesa, Arizona, the community needs looked completely different from those in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. By diving deep into local contexts, Pinpoint created volunteer experiences that matter—updating refrigeration, supporting food infrastructure and connecting “Googlers” directly with community needs.



Beyond generic events, these are orchestrated moments of meaningful connection. Whether working with tech giants or nonprofit organizations, Seltzer’s team proves that strategic event design can transform how brands interact with communities.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-leadership-journey-of-vulnerability">A leadership journey of vulnerability</h2>



Launching Pinpoint with a “fake-it-’til-you-make-it” attitude, 30-year-old Seltzer recalls her early years as a crash course in leadership—and survival. “I was trying to constantly manage up and figure things out as I went,” she says candidly. With early days characterized by relentless work and a reluctance to delegate or automate, Seltzer admits to micromanaging everything, believing that “working her tail off ” was the definition of strength. She felt impostor syndrome kick in, which led to <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/how-to-recover-from-burnout-and-rediscover-balance/">burnout</a> and a few teary moments.



Then the pandemic tested her leadership in ways she never anticipated. When live events disappeared overnight, Seltzer made an extraordinary decision. “I stopped taking a salary for about a year and a half just to keep my team on,” she recalls. Her team shrank from 20 to just three people, but her commitment never wavered.



The most profound lesson came through vulnerability. “The team is kind of everything,” she realized. “Companies are only as strong as their team.” Learning to trust her employees, give them space to contribute and lead with empowerment became her greatest transformation.



“You can give clear direction while allowing space for creativity and collaboration,” Seltzer says. Her revolutionary approach extended beyond event design to fundamental business philosophy. As a woman-owned business, Seltzer saw diversity not as a checkbox but as a core strategic advantage.



“I truly believe that diversity in every sense of the word is just smart business,” she emphasizes. “We’re building events for everyone. That means having people with different backgrounds, identities and life experiences contributing to planning and executing events to make them truly authentic.” This commitment means intentionally building a team (now back to about 20 employees) that reflects the communities her events serve. Whether working with tech giants like Google or community organizations like Feeding America, Seltzer understands that meaningful experiences emerge from diverse perspectives.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-future-of-connection">The future of connection</h2>



In a world drowning in digital noise, Seltzer sees live events as a lifeline of human connection. “People don’t just want information,” she argues. “They want to feel something. And when they do, they remember it.”



The future of events, according to Seltzer, isn’t about grand spectacles but intentional experiences. “We’ve been seeing that bigger companies are leaning more into smaller-impact events,” she explains. Her vision goes beyond intimate gatherings—it embraces technological innovation.



<a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/how-to-train-ai-for-your-workflow/">Artificial intelligence</a>, she believes, will be transformative. “AI is going to help us with efficiency, budget management and generating ideas,” Seltzer notes. But technology won’t replace human creativity—it will enhance it. “Incorporating new technology in a smart way and not being scared of it is what’s going to keep us ahead.”



Her prediction is clear: Events will become more strategic, more meaningful and more technologically integrated. But the core remains unchanged—creating moments that genuinely connect people. Seltzer points out, “Live events break the noise because human connections really are more important than anything.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-leadership-wisdom">Leadership wisdom</h2>



For Seltzer, leadership boils down to one essential truth: “Authenticity is everything.” Her most powerful advice cuts to the heart of genuine leadership: “The best leaders set high expectations without making people feel small.”



In a world of constant noise and pressure, she believes true leadership involves navigating challenges “with a sense of calm and care and perspective.” Her final wisdom resonates with simplicity: “You can be thoughtful and constructive without losing kindness.”



This can serve as the blueprint for creating not just successful events but meaningful human experiences.



This article originally appeared in the <a href="https://mysuccessplus.com/product/success-magazine-september-october-2025-maria-menounos">September/October 2025 issue</a> of SUCCESS© magazine. Photo courtesy of Pinpoint Productions.

Learn how Pinpoint Productions founder Hallie Seltzer is creating a blueprint for meaningful experiences in today’s world.

Hallie Seltzer Talks Leadership in Business and More | SUCCESS

The Event Alchemist: Hallie Seltzer, Founder of Pinpoint Productions, Crafts a Blueprint for Meaningful Experiences

Comment

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Hallie-Seltzer-Headshot.jpg

Home

SUCCESS

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/success_opengraph_image.png

Lisa Beach is an Orlando freelance writer with 35+ years of experience and bylines in The New York Times, Conde Nast Traveler, Hotel Management, and USA Today. She also publishes a free newsletter called Expert•ish Freelancer. Check out her writer’s website at www.LisaBeachWrites.com and her newsletter at www.ExpertishFreelancer.com.

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Lisa-Beach.jpg

Lisa A. Beach

Personal Development

Personal Development Archives

Personal Development | SUCCESS | What Achievers Read

The irony wasn’t lost on either of us as we sat aboard the Sun Princess on a Caribbean cruise. Here was Jill Whelan—forever Vicki Stubing from The Love Boat—now serving as Princess Cruises’ celebrations ambassador, having come full circle from her days as a child star navigating the decks of the Pacific Princess.



As we chatted, it became clear that the real lessons she’d learned from Hollywood’s golden age weren’t about fame or fortune but something far more valuable: the quiet power of <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/the-importance-of-humility-in-leadership-and-how-to-spot-unhealthy-ego-habits/">humility</a> and professionalism.







<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lessons-from-the-legends">Lessons from the legends</h2>



Whelan’s journey began at 9 years old when she joined television’s adult world, long before she understood its complexities. By the time she became a series regular on The Love Boat at age 11, Whelan had worked alongside some of Hollywood’s most iconic names—Gene Kelly, Ann Miller, Ethel Merman and countless others who had shaped American entertainment for decades.



“As a child working in the industry, it can be sketchy,” Whelan reflects. “But I was very lucky to have an amazing mom who never forgot what her role was: mother first—not stage mom, not business partner.”&nbsp;



But the legendary guest stars themselves provided her with the most lasting education in professionalism and <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/rohn-6-essential-traits-of-good-character/">character</a>.



“I found that the bigger the legend, the humbler they were,” she explains. “Ann Miller was incredibly down-to-earth, always on time and always knew her lines. Ethel Merman was the same. These legends grew up in the studio system and understood the importance of showing up on time, being prepared, hitting your mark and speaking your lines correctly. That’s what they taught me. This is a job and an art form—it’s not a red carpet.”



The lesson was profound: True greatness often walks hand in hand with humility.&nbsp;



Whelan adds that the bigger the name, the less they had to prove. “You could tell they were humble, sweet and lovely,” she recalls. “The ones who hadn’t really worked a lot or who worked at a certain level had more of an arrogance to them because I think they had more insecurity, like they had much more to prove.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-professionalism-and-humility">The power of professionalism and humility</h2>



The Love Boat cast made it their mission to welcome every guest star aboard so no one felt like the “new kid at school.” 



“We made it a point to say, ‘Hi, I’m Jill. Welcome to our show. Let me show you where the makeup room is,’ or ‘What are you doing for lunch?’ or whatever to make sure everybody was comfortable,” Whelan says.



This philosophy extended beyond the soundstage into Whelan’s personal code. “The ladder going up is the same ladder going down,” she says. This mantra kept her ego in check, even as a young star.



“Professionalism is No. 1. Humility is also No. 1,” Whelan emphasizes, “[as is] realizing that we are not the stars of this show. The ship is the star of the show, and the guest stars are the stars.”



Through it all, her commitment to preparation remains unwavering. “I was groomed from a very young age to be professional. It’s part of my DNA,” she notes. “Whenever I do a play, I walk into the first day of rehearsal with all of my lines in my head. It’s just the way I was raised.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-transitions">Navigating transitions</h2>



When The Love Boat ended, Whelan made a bold choice that many child stars find impossible: She walked away from Hollywood. At age 19, she pursued college and eventually moved to New York, where a friend at Madison Square Garden offered her an unexpected education.



“Two years before, Stephanie Mills and I were reciting lines on my TV show. Now she’s starring at Madison Square Garden, and I am bringing things to her dressing room,” Whelan recalls. “But it was exciting, and I was learning this other side.”



This willingness to start over, to embrace humility in service of growth, became one of Whelan’s defining characteristics. While working behind the scenes, she created a liaison role between TV crews and the venue, drawing on her childhood knowledge of industry protocols. “I came out with some other tools in my arsenal that I didn’t know I’d get,” she says, “which have helped me as a producer now.”



Today, Whelan credits her support system for keeping her balanced and authentic. “My friends make it clear to me every day that they would never suffer any silliness on my behalf,” she says. “That’s why I’m so blessed to have them.”&nbsp;



But it’s her children who provide the most effective reality check. “In terms of humility, I think what humbles me more than anything else are my children,” she says. “Life isn’t so glamorous when you’re cleaning up throw up or changing a diaper. As cool as you think you are, the teenager in your life will always set you straight.”



Whelan also maintains a daily meditation practice, recognizing that staying present and grateful requires intentional effort, especially while juggling acting, producing and co-hosting her podcast, <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-empty-nesters/id1766796213" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Empty Nesters</a>, with her best friend, Leah Mangum. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kindness-and-humility-as-career-strategies">Kindness and humility as career strategies</h2>



Perhaps the most striking aspect of our conversation was Whelan’s unwavering belief that kindness isn’t just nice—it’s strategic. “Whether you’re an actor, a teacher, a health care professional or a trade worker, human beings should always lead with <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/how-30-days-of-kindness-made-me-a-better-person/">kindness</a>,” she insists. “Always remember that we have no idea what the person next to us is going through.”



This philosophy extends beyond mere politeness to a deeper understanding of human nature and professional success. “If we remember to go through our day with grace for ourselves and for others,” she adds, “that’s the best advice I could give. I’m a big believer in karma.”



Whelan’s current role as Princess Cruises’ celebrations ambassador represents more than professional serendipity—it’s also a homecoming. “I don’t know if I ever thought that I would be lucky enough to have the kind of relationship with Princess as an adult as I did when I was a kid,” she says. “For me, it’s like my childhood playground.”



In this role, she helps guests mark life’s significant moments—birthdays, anniversaries, first trips abroad and cancer remissions. “I get to talk about what cruising means to me and what we have in life to celebrate,“ she says. “I’m a very silver linings person, always looking for what’s positive.”



But at the same time, Whelan understands that not everything has a positive outcome—which is what makes her job so important.



“We all go through pain. We all have challenges,” she points out. “As my mom used to say, ‘Everybody has a hole in their sock.’ When you boil it all down, we are all just human beings living the experience, trying to get through life as best we can. It’s a lot more fulfilling to try to be there for people and help them than it is to alienate ourselves without consideration for others.”



She adds that “humility is a wonderful personality trait. It doesn’t make you weak—it actually makes you strong. When people feel at ease around you, they feel more comfortable being their true selves.”&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-true-measure-of-success">The true measure of success</h2>



As our conversation aboard the Sun Princess wrapped up, Whelan’s words lingered, a gentle reminder that the wisdom she gleaned from Hollywood’s golden age wasn’t about spotlights or standing ovations. It was about something far more enduring: how you treat others, the standards you hold yourself to and the legacy you leave behind.



The true <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/what-does-success-really-mean-to-you/">measure of success</a>, she believes, isn’t just what you accomplish but how you accomplish it—with kindness, humility and unwavering professionalism.



Photo by Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock.com

Jill Whelan shares her journey from child stardom to cruise ambassador—and the lasting lessons she learned from Hollywood legends.

Jill Whelan shares her journey from child stardom to cruise ambassador—and the lasting lessons she learned from Hollywood legends. | SUCCESS

Jill Whelan’s Life Lessons From Hollywood’s Greatest

Jill Whelan on Hollywood, Humility and Life Lessons | SUCCESS

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/jill-whelan-life-lessons-hollywood.jpg

Professional Growth

Professional Growth Archives

Professional Growth | SUCCESS | What Achievers Read

If the catchphrase, “Show me the money!” rings a bell, then you already know David Meltzer.



In the high-stakes world of sports entertainment, Meltzer guided athletes to championship success as CEO of the Leigh Steinberg Sports &amp; Entertainment agency—the inspiration for Jerry Maguire.



Now, as the newly appointed chairman of the <a href="https://www.napoleonhillinstitute.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Napoleon Hill Institute</a>’s Corporate Division, he’s calling the plays for a different kind of victory: transforming Hill’s success principles into a winning strategy for today’s business leaders.







<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-comeback-story">The comeback story</h2>



Like many great sports narratives, Meltzer’s journey includes a stunning setback. After losing $100 million, he turned to a trusted coaching manual: Napoleon Hill’s <a href="https://mysuccessplus.com/product/think-and-grow-rich-by-napoleon-hill" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Think and Grow Rich</a>. (Hill, who died in 1970, was a self-help author known for his philosophies on leadership, self-motivation and individual achievement.)



“I used to tell people, ‘Every time I read Think and Grow Rich, I make another million dollars,’” Meltzer recalls.



What started as a joke became his blueprint for rebuilding, which led to his current role as a globally recognized entrepreneur, business coach and media powerhouse.



When Meltzer wrote his first book, <a href="https://amzn.to/4dVT8hC" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Connected to Goodness</a>, he approached the Napoleon Hill Foundation for guidance, wanting to capture the same pragmatic spiritual reconciliation he found in Hill’s work. As he delved deeper into Hill’s other works, particularly <a href="https://amzn.to/3ZsJ89R" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Outwitting the Devil</a>, Meltzer discovered a treasure trove of wisdom that would shape his leadership philosophy.



“I started to see a trend,” Meltzer explains. “Some of the most seminal <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/what-is-personal-development/">personal development</a> and entrepreneurial information that has inspired all the greatest people around the world was dying because they did not have the understanding of the new media, the new platforms.”



His mission: Ensure that these foundational principles reach today’s corporate leaders through modern channels.



“My heroes, like Bob Proctor and Wayne Dyer and the <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/zig-ziglar-defining-success/">Zig Ziglars</a> of the world? Nobody knew them anymore,” he says. This realization drove him to action—first through licensing Think and Grow Rich for film and book projects, and ultimately in his role as chairman of the institute’s new corporate division.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-4-quarter-strategy">The 4-quarter strategy</h2>



“The truth vibrates the fastest,” he says. This is why he believes Hill’s teachings don’t need reinvention—just reimagination.



Just as championship teams need a comprehensive game plan, Meltzer has developed a four-quarter strategy to modernize Hill’s legacy:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-first-quarter-capture">First quarter: CAPTURE</h3>



Like preserving game films from legendary matches, Meltzer’s team is digitizing Hill’s vast archive of handwritten notes, deteriorating films and original manuscripts. 



During his visit to the archives, Meltzer discovered “mind-blowing” typewritten content that was “so before its time that it doesn’t need to be changed—it just needs to be presented correctly.”



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-second-quarter-modify">Second quarter: MODIFY</h3>



Much like how modern coaches adapt classic plays for today’s game, this phase focuses on transforming Hill’s content for contemporary platforms. “It’s not about rewriting anything,” Meltzer emphasizes. “It’s about understanding how to present the same information.” 



Here, his team is converting lengthy chapters into digestible social media content and transforming key principles into short-form videos.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-third-quarter-amplify">Third quarter: AMPLIFY</h3>



This phase leverages what Meltzer calls “stage theory”—using bigger stages with bigger people to reach a greater audience. Like a championship game broadcast globally, this strategy aims to extend Hill’s reach across the digital landscape through partnerships with influential leaders and corporations to potentially touch all 8 billion people on the planet.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-fourth-quarter-perpetuate">Fourth quarter: PERPETUATE</h3>



The final quarter focuses on maintaining Hill’s original “frequency” while growing exponentially—like preserving a team’s winning culture while expanding its fan base. This involves creating a social ecosystem where Hill’s teachings can thrive authentically, without dilution or distortion.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-strategic-market-expansion">Strategic market expansion</h2>



When the Napoleon Hill Institute launched its corporate division on Jan. 11, 2025, the date held a personal significance for Meltzer. “I’m a 1-11 guy,” he explains, referencing his birthday on Jan. 11 at 1:11. Meltzer believes that the launch date aligns with his personal connection.



Market analysis drove Meltzer’s first two major initiatives, revealing that organizations like the Carnegie Institute found their greatest success in the Middle East and North Africa region. “Why recreate the wheel?” he notes. “We’re going to start with the biggest and best opportunities.”



Simultaneously, as chairman of the <a href="https://unstoppablefoundation.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unstoppable Foundation</a> and the father of three daughters, “girl dad” Meltzer prioritized the Women’s Division, which emerged as a cornerstone of the institute’s mission to empower individuals worldwide. Under the leadership of Institute CEO Cliona O’Hara, the Women’s Division was strategically developed with a dedicated partner to refine, rebrand and amplify existing programs tailored to women’s personal and professional growth.



Recognizing the demand for specialized empowerment initiatives, the institute integrated this division alongside other key areas, such as <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/how-to-become-a-certified-coach/">personal coaching</a> and corporate development. By leveraging proven models and expanding into high-impact regions like the Middle East and North Africa, the Women’s Division ensures that its programs reach and uplift female executives and entrepreneurs globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-victory-strategy">The victory strategy</h2>



As executive producer of the 2 Minute Drill and the digital business show Elevator Pitch from Entrepreneur, Meltzer knows how to reach modern audiences. Two fundamental plays from Hill’s playbook guide his leadership strategy: definite purpose and control of impulse. These principles shaped his recovery from financial devastation and continue to guide his leadership approach.



“The combination of wisdom and faith that Napoleon Hill writes about,” Meltzer reflects, “shortens the distance of resistance that we create in our lives.” This philosophy manifests in what he calls “nonnegotiable behavior”—daily practices that integrate personal and professional growth, including prioritizing sleep, health and family alongside finance and <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/productivity-hacks/">productivity</a>.



Looking ahead, Meltzer faces what he deems “the challenge of the ‘big O, little C’”—huge opportunity with currently limited capability. He’s focused on building a sustainable legacy.



“The fastest way to be successful,” he says, “is to find people who sit in a situation that you want to be in and ask them for directions—and then help others do the same.” 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-12-timeless-principles-of-napoleon-hill-s-think-and-grow-rich">12 timeless principles of Napoleon Hill’s Think and Grow Rich</h2>



If you take anything from Meltzer’s wealth of experience, let it be these 12 principles, which he’s drawn from Think and Grow Rich:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Desire: Cultivate a burning desire—the starting point for all achievement.</li>



<li>Faith: Believe in your ability to realize your goals.</li>



<li>Autosuggestion: Program your mind with positive affirmations.</li>



<li>Specialized knowledge: Acquire expertise in your chosen field.</li>



<li>Imagination: Use your creativity to envision success.</li>



<li>Organized planning: Develop concrete action plans.</li>



<li>Decision: Make prompt, firm decisions.</li>



<li>Persistence: Maintain unwavering determination.</li>



<li>Mastermind group: Collaborate with a supportive network.</li>



<li>The subconscious mind: Focus your subconscious on your objectives.</li>



<li>The brain: Harness your brain’s potential for innovation.</li>



<li>The sixth sense: Develop and trust your intuition.</li>
</ol>



In a nutshell, Think and Grow Rich underscores the power of mindset, relentless effort and strategic planning as the keys to unlocking both wealth and lasting success.



This article originally appeared in the July/August 2025 issue of <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/magazine/">SUCCESS® magazine</a>. 



Photo courtesy of David Meltzer Enterprises

Learn how legendary sports executive David Meltzer is transforming Napoleon Hill’s timeless principles into a winning corporate playbook.

Learn how legendary sports executive David Meltzer is transforming Napoleon Hill’s timeless principles into a winning corporate playbook. | SUCCESS

The Championship Strategy: Reimagining Napoleon Hill‘s “Think and Grow Rich“

Discovering the Championship Strategy with David Meltzer

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/championship-strategy-david-meltzer.jpg

When Jamil Bouchareb, founder and CEO of Miami-based Restaurantware, set out to reimagine his company’s approach to business, he didn’t just tweak a few processes. Instead, he fundamentally transformed how a modern organization could operate by putting his food service supply company at the forefront of <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/sustainable-business-practices/">sustainability</a> and innovation.



Bouchareb’s strategy demonstrates a powerful truth: Sustainability is not a niche concept or trendy buzzword but a comprehensive approach that can revolutionize any industry.



“The good news is that sustainability is moving from a separate strategy and function to really becoming part of how to do ‘better business,’” explains Susan Kenniston, a top sustainability consultant, both on a global scale and specifically within the Asia-Pacific region. “So just extending your strategic goals and initiatives is a good way to go. It is important for organization leadership to be aware of how the dots connect and help the company, the employees, suppliers and communities.”



By deliberately choosing materials and processes that balance environmental responsibility, social equity and economic viability, businesses can create value that extends far beyond traditional bottom-line thinking.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainability-defined">Sustainability defined</h2>



The UCLA Sustainability Committee captures this holistic vision perfectly— it defines sustainability as “the integration of environmental health, social equity and economic vitality in order to create thriving, healthy, diverse and resilient communities for this generation and generations to come.”



This framework, known as the “three E’s” of sustainability, breaks down into three critical components:



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Environment: Enforcing responsible resource management that goes beyond energy reduction to reimagine how businesses interact with natural resources</li>



<li>Equity: Addressing the <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/steps-applying-human-sustainability-work/">human element</a> through fair labor practices, diversity, inclusion and understanding broader community impacts</li>



<li>Economy: Challenging the notion that profitability and social responsibility are mutually exclusive by creating economic value that generates positive societal outcomes</li>
</ol>



“The argument was, you didn’t just look at the bottom line, which is the profitability in the economics—you had to look at the triple bottom line,” explains Gregory Unruh, a leading sustainability expert. “You also had to look at the cost to the community and the environment.” As the Arison professor of values leadership at George Mason University and author of <a href="https://amzn.to/43h1xct" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Strategy on the Sustainability Frontier</a>, Unruh literally wrote the book on how businesses can develop effective sustainability strategies that create value.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-practical-strategies-for-implementation">Practical strategies for implementation</h2>



For businesses that are looking to <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/corporate-giving-sustainable-impact/">integrate sustainability</a>, several practical approaches can make a significant difference:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-resource-efficiency">Resource efficiency</h3>



Unruh advises looking for low-cost sustainability practices that produce positive returns and ensuring that your production processes are as energy efficient as possible to save costs and reduce environmental impact. Simple changes like LED lighting, smart power management and comprehensive recycling programs can dramatically reduce operational costs and environmental footprint.



“Focus on how to reduce your use of natural resources. Following water, for example, is a great place to lean into,” advises Kenniston. “If you are a manufacturing business, you [or] your suppliers, by reducing water, can reduce energy, emissions [and] bad chemistry and help improve the lives of people and communities. Follow the water!”



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sustainable-sourcing">Sustainable sourcing</h3>



Developing community partnerships and prioritizing local suppliers not only reduces your carbon footprint but also supports local economies. The key is designing products with their entire life cycle in mind and emphasizing durability, recyclability and waste reduction. 



For instance, Bouchareb prioritizes renewable resources, like bioplastics, sugarcane and wood, which offer sustainable alternatives to traditional plastics while maintaining high performance.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-diversity-and-inclusion">Diversity and inclusion</h3>



Creating an <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/4-ways-to-make-your-business-more-inclusive/">inclusive workplace culture</a> goes beyond moral imperatives. Diverse teams drive innovation, improve problem-solving and reflect the complex global marketplace that businesses now navigate. 



According to Bouchareb, “By empowering employees with the knowledge and tools to act as sustainability stewards, businesses can ensure their teams provide customers with personalized guidance and practical suggestions.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-business-case-for-sustainability">The business case for sustainability</h2>



Sustainability offers multifaceted benefits that extend far beyond traditional business metrics. And as Unruh points out, these metrics are both tangible and intangible:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Brand reputation: Consumers increasingly gravitate toward companies that demonstrate genuine environmental and social responsibility.</li>



<li>Employee engagement: Unruh notes that employees prefer to work for companies with a positive social and environmental impact. Plus, employees who believe in their company are more loyal, take less sick time and are more productive. This increases retention and lowers HR costs over time.</li>



<li>Competitive differentiation: From a financial perspective, sustainable practices drive long-term efficiency, unlock innovative potential and provide critical differentiation in increasingly crowded markets.</li>
</ul>



Kenniston emphasizes that “companies that [really think] about how their employees, suppliers and communities are impacted will win.”



By strategically integrating sustainability, companies aren’t just reducing their environmental footprint. They’re also creating a comprehensive value proposition that resonates with employees, customers and investors alike to transform what was once seen as a peripheral concern into a core strategic advantage.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-overcoming-implementation-challenges">Overcoming implementation challenges</h2>



The path to sustainability isn’t without obstacles. The key is recognizing it as an opportunity rather than a burden.



For instance, Unruh emphasizes the interconnected nature of sustainability in business, recognizing that no company on its own can be sustainable. “Every company is part of a larger economic system.... For your company to be sustainable, you need sustainable suppliers, you need sustainable energy production, etc.,” he points out. “There [are] lots of opportunities, then, for small [businesses] and startup companies to help established companies become more sustainable by becoming their sustainable supplier.”



Kenniston says that general awareness and capabilities in the organization both pose challenges as well. “The good news is that many folks are beginners,” she says. ”[It’s] just good to get after it together and not feel bad about being a beginner.”



But don’t get hung up on the data, she advises. “Systems are just catching up in capturing good data about the footprint of your businesses…. Just keep driving improvements while the data quality improves.”



Many of these benefits are not immediately measurable. As Unruh points out, “[Unlike getting] a receipt for your electric bill, you don’t get a receipt for things like customer loyalty or employee loyalty—and that’s always been a barrier.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-strategic-imperative">A strategic imperative</h2>



Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s a business imperative. By embracing a holistic approach that balances environmental stewardship, <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/promote-social-responsibility-in-the-workplace/">social responsibility</a> and economic innovation, businesses can create value that transcends quarterly reports.



“The founding entrepreneur… has sort of an outsized role in creating what will be the organizational purpose,” Unruh says. “Building a socially, environmentally responsible organizational culture and a purpose that goes beyond just making money… creates an organization that will be far more sustainable in social, community and environmental dimensions.”



Kenniston emphasizes that sustainability is not a separate, nice-to-have element that you simply tack onto your business. “Don’t let all of the jargon and frameworks give you pause—sustainability is becoming part of how we do business. [It’s] operationalized, which makes it easier to think about and incorporate,” she says. “Thinking about your natural and social capital is really better business in the end.”



The decisions that businesses make today will shape the world of tomorrow. Sustainability offers more than a compliance checklist—it presents an inspiring vision of a business’s potential to create meaningful, lasting change.



Photo courtesy of Restaurantware



This article originally appeared in the March 2025 issue of <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/subscriptions/">SUCCESS+ digital magazine</a>.

Sustainability is a business strategy. Learn how companies integrate environmental, social and economic responsibility for lasting success.

Sustainability is a business strategy. Learn how companies integrate environmental, social and economic responsibility for lasting success. | SUCCESS

Sustainability: Beyond a Buzzword

Sustainability in Business: Balancing Profit & Responsibility | SUCCESS

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/sustainability-business-strategy.jpg

Future of Work

Future of Work Archives

Future of Work | SUCCESS | What Achievers Read

An interview with Robert Waldinger, M.D., director of the long-running Harvard Study of Adult Development



Achieving a good balance between work and home life sometimes seems impossible. But one decades-long study explores on how people try to make it work and some of the decisions they regret in this area.



To find out more, we spoke to <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/authors/robert-john-waldinger-md#:~:text=Robert%20Waldinger%20is%20a%20psychiatrist,of%20adult%20life%20ever%20done." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robert Waldinger, M.D.,</a> a clinical professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, director of the <a href="https://www.adultdevelopmentstudy.org/">Harvard Study of Adult Development</a> and a Zen priest. He leads a psychotherapy teaching program at Massachusetts General Hospital and writes about healthy human development. His <a href="https://www.ted.com/talks/robert_waldinger_what_makes_a_good_life_lessons_from_the_longest_study_on_happiness?subtitle=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TED Talk on happiness</a> has more than 47 million views.



This interview has been edited for length and clarity.



SUCCESS+: Can you share any research about work-life balance and its impact on our lives?



Robert Waldinger, M.D.: The Harvard Study of Adult Development is the longest study of the same people that’s ever been done. We started with some disadvantaged kids from Austin’s inner city and some undergrads, followed them all the way through their lives, brought in their spouses and brought in their children. What was unusual was [being] able to study people again and again their whole lives. We’re in our 86th year. It started in 1938. 



When people hit their 80s, we asked them to look back on their lives. [We asked], “What do you regret the most?” and “What are you proud of?” Many people regretted spending too much time at work and not enough time with people they cared about. 



The other interesting thing is many women said they wish they hadn’t worried so much about what other people thought. In terms of <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/9-habits-that-support-a-work-life-balance/">work-life balance</a>, when people look back, they say, “I probably didn’t need to work that hard.” There’s this saying that I really like: “20 years from now, the only people who will remember whether or not you worked late are your children.” True. We get all caught up in this work stuff.



That said, one of the things we found was that a lot of people were very proud of their work and particularly proud of their relationships with people at work. Some would say, “I was a good boss, a good mentor or a reliable part of the team.” When people talked about work, they wouldn’t say, “I made all this money,” or, “I led this big company,” although some of them did. It was often about their relationships.



S+: You’re focused on what makes a good life, highlighting the importance of relationships. How does work-life balance factor into the equation of having a good life?



RW:&nbsp; The truth is you can’t have it all. We always get this message: “You can have it all!” Right? But there are only 24 hours in a day. So, it really means deciding. What are the things you care about? How are you going to make compromises because you can’t have it all? For example, my career isn’t nearly as developed as some of my colleagues. When my kids were growing up, I didn’t go out in the evening. I didn’t work much in the evening. I spent a lot of time with my kids because I really wanted to do that. Now, my kids are grown and gone. I can work as much as I want. But back then, it was a conscious choice.



I’m not saying I was virtuous. It was just what I wanted to do. Also, it’s always a work in progress. It’s not like you get it figured out and then you’re done. Because stuff is always happening. You’re getting a promotion or getting asked to move across the country, and you have to decide if it’s worth it for everybody. Work-life balance is a continual practice rather than a goal you reach.







S+: Does work-life balance change as you go through different stages of life?



RW: If you’re lucky. We hope people have the flexibility to do that—in their work lives and in their minds. Because if you’re a workaholic, you’re a workaholic no matter what else is going on in your life. But what we hope for is the kind of flexibility to say, “OK, now, I’m going to cut back on work because I’m going to devote more time to this other thing I really care about." 



Work-life balance implies we have a choice. And, sometimes, people’s jobs just won’t let them make choices like that. They have to really struggle to make ends meet, working two or three jobs. So, for them, they can say, “Yeah, work-life balance sounds great, except I have to pay the bills. I have to feed my family.”



S+: How can we reframe the idea of work-life balance, so it looks different in how we talk about it or think about it?



RW: Work-life balance is highly individual. And there’s also workplace culture. Some workplace cultures can support people being able to have a private life and take care of their families, and some workplace cultures don’t do that. Think about some of these consulting firms that basically say, “You’re an indentured servant, and we’re going to pay you a ton of money, and you’re going to have no life.” That’s a choice. Just give up your life, right? 



One of the things they’ve done in medicine is start making the hours less crazy… One of the reasons is they find that if we train young doctors to be bad at taking care of themselves, to have no private life, then they’re bad at taking care of patients. You cannot take care of other people if you don’t take care of yourself.



S+: Since work-life balance is very individualized, what are the key factors that contribute to working toward a healthy balance?



RW: <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/sustainable-self-care/">Self-care</a>, first of all. Getting enough sleep, eating well, not being obese, getting regular exercise. I know, I sound like your grandmother. But what we found in our study is that the people who did those things lived, on average, 10 years longer than the people who didn’t. So, it really matters. 



Self-care is huge. Not being lonely. Having something to look forward to each day. Is the day just a slog and you’re just getting through [it], or are there things built in that you look forward to? It doesn’t mean that everybody has to love their job. It means that maybe you can cultivate some relationships in your job, find friends in your job, find things you enjoy about it, even if you don’t love making widgets.



S+: What advice would you give to those who work in jobs that lack meaning or fulfillment?



RW: At work, see if connecting with people might give you some sense of meaning. If you can find even just one friend at work, you want to show up.



S+: For those who might be feeling overwhelmed (such as new parents) is there a better goal to strive for than work-life balance during this particularly challenging time?



RW: Look for mutual support. That’s why moms’ groups can help with both tangible support and emotional support. Even online communities can help. It doesn’t always have to be in person. Otherwise, it’s so isolating. People who are marginalized for any reason, they’re lonelier. So, if you can do online stuff with people who are more like you or in the same situation, it makes a difference.



S+: What habits should people cultivate for better balance?



RW: Connect more with people because that usually makes people happier, and it’s more energizing. You don’t necessarily have to add time. If you commute, instead of just [scrolling] on your phone, call or text somebody you want to stay in touch with. If you’re at work, have lunch with people instead of eating alone. If you go to the gym, go with somebody. It’s also a much bigger incentive to do it. Combine <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/why-friends-are-important/">social connection</a> with something you would do anyway.



Many of us feel a little shy about that. It feels safer just to stay in our little cocoon. They’ve done studies on this [and found that] people are way happier when they overcome that little bit of resistance and connect with others. One of the things they find is that peripheral relationships are really good, even for your career. So, broaden your social network, even if you’re just friendly and talk to different people. The people you know less well are the ones more likely to find you your next job or your next opportunity because they have networks that are farther outside of your [own].



S+: What’s one key takeaway you want SUCCESS+ readers to remember about work-life balance?



RW: I guess that it’s very individual. It’s particular to you and to your time of life…. Be sure to customize it. Nobody else’s work-life balance is going to be right for you exactly. So really check in with yourself about it. There isn’t a formula—and that’s really OK.



Learn more about Dr. Waldinger and his work at <a href="https://www.robertwaldinger.com/">www.robertwaldinger.com</a> and <a href="https://www.adultdevelopmentstudy.org/">www.adultdevelopmentstudy.org.</a>



This interview appears in the <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/magazine/">November 2024 issue of SUCCESS+ Magazine</a>. Photo courtesy of Robert Waldinger

Discover the secret to living a rewarding life according to Harvard Medical School professor Robert Waldinger.

Discover the secret to living a rewarding life according to Robert Waldinger.

Robert Waldinger Reveals How to Live a Fulfilling Life | SUCCESS

Is It Really Possible to Achieve Work-life Balance?

Robert Waldinger Reveals How to Balance Work and Life | SUCCESS

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Robert-Waldinger.jpg

Young couple on the road exemplifying a digital nomad lifestyle

Lifestyle

Lifestyle Archives

Elevate your lifestyle for success and happiness

Embracing a lifestyle defined by flexibility and adventure, digital nomads have redefined the traditional notions of work and travel. This modern breed of professionals leverages technology to break free from geographical constraints to blend work, family life and wanderlust. For today’s digital nomads, remote work is not just a job—it’s an intentional lifestyle choice that offers both rewards and challenges. From exotic locales to bustling coworking spaces to online family learning, the digital nomad lifestyle offers a unique blend of independence, innovation and a passport-stamped career path. Meet these digital nomads who are making it work.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brandon-and-gabi-fox">Brandon and Gabi Fox</h2>



Photographers/owners of <a href="https://thefoxesphotography.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Foxes Photography</a>



My wife Gabi and I stumbled into the world of digital nomading. We didn’t plan it; it just happened out of necessity. Before hitting the road, Gabi worked in finance, and I was a copywriter in Boston. In 2014, we decided to ditch our jobs and bought a trailer to spend a year traveling and rock climbing—camping at the crag and moving to new spots as the seasons change, following the good weather.



After year one, we knew we didn’t want to go back to our city life or jobs. We’d been doing a lot of photo and video work documenting our travels and rock climbing, so we leaned into that and started our photography business. It was a stressful year two, not going to lie. It was make-or-break, and we had to focus less on climbing and traveling and more on <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/the-riches-are-in-the-micro-niches-how-to-grow-your-business-by-narrowing-your-focus/">growing our business</a>. But we were determined to figure out a way to make it work.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/IMG_6027_Photos-by-The_Foxes_Photography-1024x768.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77553" style="width:450px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Gabi Fox and her dog. (Photo by The Foxes Photography)</figcaption></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-becoming-financially-stable-with-the-foxes-photography">Becoming financially stable with The Foxes Photography</h3>



The biggest challenge was figuring out how to make our nomadic life financially stable. Fortunately, living in a trailer helped keep our expenses low. Surprisingly, the typical challenges people associate with road life—sharing a small space, no bathroom/shower, figuring out how to get mail—weren’t a big deal. Of course, trailer hiccups—like things breaking and needing repair—can be tough to deal with but are minor in the grand scheme of things. It’s all a part of the journey.







Being able to park our trailer in some of the country’s most beautiful places and call them home for a few weeks or a few months is something we’ll never get tired of. We love the eastern side of the Sierras in California and the southern Utah desert especially. Plus, we’ve met so many like-minded friends on the road. We now have a home base in Washington but still travel half the year. Being tied down to one place year-round feels like something we’ll never go back to.



Tech must-haves include an unlimited data hotspot for our internet, Slack (to communicate with our team), the Gas Guru app (for the cheapest gas around) and Google Earth (for forest roads we can follow to camp for free).



I think we’ll always spend a good chunk of the year traveling. There are times where we crave a house and some routine, but after a while, we start itching to get back on the road. We really love the digital nomad lifestyle and all the experiences we’ve collected and people we’ve met along the way.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-elliot-rozenberg">Elliot Rozenberg</h2>



Founding partner, <a href="https://www.lawyerly.law/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lawyerly LLP</a>, and founder, <a href="https://www.eatmycritique.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eat My Critique</a>



My journey into the digital nomad lifestyle began before the pandemic. I convinced my manager to let me work remotely from Buenos Aires, my favorite city, for two three-month stints.



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Photography-by-Romeo-Silva-777x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77552" style="width:350px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Elliot Rozenberg. (Photography by Romeo Silva)</figcaption></figure>



As an attorney specializing in contracts, negotiations, influencer marketing and entertainment law, I knew that if my full-time job didn’t let me live as a digital nomad, I could one day <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/why-you-should-start-your-own-business-today/">start my own firm</a>. Thus, Lawyerly LLP was born, allowing me to serve incredible clients who are supportive of my lifestyle while helping my team pursue their dreams. There’s nothing more rewarding than helping make someone’s dreams come true.



I realized that if I gave up my apartment, car and other costs of a “fixed” life, I’d have enough money to live in hotels and travel the world. Leaving LA became a no-brainer. And when Eat My Critique—a food blog that my partner Romeo and I launched together—began to take off, we knew we could make the nomadic lifestyle work.



Our journey had its challenges, from being taken into a police station in Thailand to falling off a camel in Egypt to our bout with dengue fever in Brazil. Over time, I’ve learned to embrace the unknown and focus on the joys of everyday life, realizing that people are generally wonderful.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-digital-nomad-lifestyle-working-u-s-hours">Digital nomad lifestyle: Working U.S. hours</h3>



The best part of this lifestyle is that every single day I have the ability to cross something off my bucket list. Workdays have included visits to the Great Pyramids, penguin encounters in Cape Town, attending Rio’s Carnaval parade and touring La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.



By generally working U.S. hours, I carve out time for sightseeing, activities and, of course, lots of eating. When you’re a digital nomad, you know that you can always return to a place if there’s a sight you want to see or a restaurant you want to try. That’s such a powerful, calming realization.



Besides favorite destinations (like Bangkok, Buenos Aires, Berlin, Madrid and Johannesburg) that have incredible food scenes, culture and history, I’ve loved more off-the-beaten-path places like Latvia and the Kingdom of Eswatini.



Our days typically include breakfast, gym, sightseeing, work and dinner, adjusting for different time zones. Reliable internet access is crucial for remote work, and video calls keep us connected with clients globally.



Everyone always asks, “When do you think you’ll settle down?” and my answer is always, “Not anytime soon… maybe never.” I believe we embody the future of work, showcasing the freedom to work from anywhere. It’s enabled me to live the life I’ve dreamed of and that shines through in the work I’m doing. It has made me a better business owner, partner and adviser to clients, and I’m excited to continue to grow from here.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tiphini-and-kris-axtell">Tiphini and Kris Axtell</h2>



Tiphini is director of communications and Kris is CEO/managing member, <a href="https://luna.capital/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luna Capital Advisors</a>



My husband and I own a commercial loan brokerage in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Our journey into the digital nomad lifestyle started over a decade ago, with dreams of relocating to Costa Rica with our three kids—Kade (13), Kyler (15) and Kayson (16). When the pandemic hit, the lightbulb went off: Now is the time to take this adventure, as <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/challenging-the-office-role-in-a-remote-working-world/">remote work</a> became the new norm. We went to Costa Rica for two weeks, then decided to take a gap year traveling the globe. We began in July 2023, and so far, we’ve been to three continents: Africa, Asia and Europe. We wanted to make the most of our time together as a family and break free from the constraints of conventional living.



Challenges are an integral part of this lifestyle, from shopping for groceries to securing reliable Wi-Fi to navigating cultural differences. Patience, flexibility and regular family meetings help us handle obstacles. We also double-check Wi-Fi speeds at all lodging, have local SIM cards loaded with data, do tons of pre-travel research, are willing to step outside our comfort zone and adjust our schedules to work around U.S. work hours.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-remote-work-with-luna-capital-advisors">Remote work with Luna Capital Advisors</h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img src="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Axtell-IMG_5334_jpg_Courtesy-of-Tiphini-and-Kris-Axtell-768x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-77550" style="width:350px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Axtell family. (Photo courtesy of Tiphini and Kris Axtell)</figcaption></figure>



The joys far outweigh the challenges. Our family has grown, both individually and collectively. Being immersed in other cultures has made us more empathetic, open-minded humans. And we ensure everyone’s needs are being met, making changes as needed. When we realized Kyler was struggling with math and needed help with executive functioning tasks, we turned to <a href="https://cicerolearning.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cicero Learning</a> for support. Our children are now learning in ways that are really tailored to their exact abilities and interests. Watching our children fully immerse themselves in a place, interact with people of all ages and backgrounds, grow into respectful global citizens and learn through doing and seeing instead of reading and reciting has been amazing.



Balancing work and a digital nomad lifestyle involves leveraging the time zone advantage for late mornings and flexible schedules. With a condensed workday, we find more time for personal pursuits, aligning with our intention of adopting a slower, more intentional pace. A typical day involves family time, work/school cycles and midday sightseeing, such as exploring the Sunnmøre Alps in Norway and Siwa Oasis in Egypt.



Technology plays a crucial role, using apps like Google Translate, Airbnb, WhatsApp and Zoom. Local SIM cards and pocket hotspots have been indispensable for staying connected for work and school.



Community building happens organically through routine interactions (like working out at local gyms and frequenting the same parks and coffee spots) and connecting with expat families.



Looking ahead, we see this lifestyle extending beyond a year. Being flexible, communicating with one another and constantly reevaluating things are key.



This article originally appeared in the <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/subscriptions/">May issue of SUCCESS+</a> digital magazine. Photo courtesy of The Foxes Photography.

Five adventurous souls share how they’re redefining work, family and travel. Learn more about digital nomad lifestyles in our latest.

Five adventurous souls share how they’re redefining work, family and travel. Learn more about digital nomad lifestyles in our latest. | SUCCESS

Beyond Borders: 5 Digital Nomads Share How They’re Redefining Work, Family and Travel

3 Digital Nomad Lifestyle Stories | SUCCESS

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/digital-nomad-lifestyle-header.jpg

As I approach my 60th birthday, this milestone invites time for reflection, both personally and professionally. Do I have any regrets? Would I do anything differently? I launched into adulthood in the 1980s and ’90s. I graduated high school, went to college and graduate school, got a job, started a family and bought a house.&nbsp;



But, with hindsight as the best teacher, I’d both applaud and tweak some of my choices. After a little self-reflection, I discovered 10 lessons I’d share with fresh-out-of-college me—who, at the time, was brimming with ambition and naiveté. Here’s my advice for my younger self.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-stand-up-for-yourself-more">1. Stand up for yourself more</h2>



Assertiveness was never my strong suit, especially when I was younger. I remember one instance when I applied for a communications job and the male interviewer asked if I was pregnant or planning to have children soon. My face turned bright red, and I was caught off guard and embarrassed at this deeply personal question.&nbsp;



I didn’t know that&nbsp;<a href="https://nwlc.org/resource/pregnant-at-work-know-your-rights/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">discrimination against pregnant workers&nbsp;became&nbsp;illegal&nbsp;when the&nbsp;Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA)&nbsp;was&nbsp;introduced in 1978</a>. Back then, I meekly answered this highly inappropriate question. Today, I would have admonished the guy and abruptly ended the interview. I've discovered that assertiveness—without compromising kindness, respect or professionalism—is empowering.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-skip-the-master-s-degree">2. Skip the master’s degree</h2>



What? Eschew higher education? While I enjoyed graduate school, met some wonderful people and found my studies enriching, the advanced degree failed to yield tangible career benefits. If I’d continued climbing the corporate ladder, I’m sure my master’s degree would have eventually paid off. But as a <a href="https://www.lisabeachwrites.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">freelancer</a>, it honestly didn’t make a difference. In hindsight, opting out of grad school could have spared me significant time and saved me thousands of dollars. But at the time, I did not envision a 35+ year career path as a freelance writer in charge of my own success. Live and learn, right?







<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-play-to-your-strengths">3. Play to your strengths</h2>



Initially, I leaned into my master’s degree in public relations. But what I really loved was the writing aspect of the job. I didn’t like being on camera or giving live radio interviews. I didn’t enjoy the media blitzes to hand out (printed!) press kits and schmooze the editors with desk-side appointments.&nbsp;



I enjoyed—and still thrive on—the behind-the-scenes work of researching a topic, interviewing experts, writing and storytelling. While I appreciated learning about the PR side of the business, my heart was on the writer’s side. So, after two full-time public relations roles, I decided to become a full-time freelance writer. While I paid my dues early in my career writing about topics I didn’t love or working with clients who weren’t a good fit, I’m now privileged to pick and choose what I want to write about and whom I work with. <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/why-you-need-to-identify-your-strengths/">Leaning in hard to your strengths</a> is great advice to your younger self.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-4-don-t-put-off-parenthood-so-long">4. Don’t put off parenthood so long</h2>



Most of my 20-something friends started having kids soon after getting married, but my husband and I weren’t ready to take the parenting plunge yet. Though we married in 1988, we waited 10 years to start a family, which I’m sure felt agonizingly long to our parents.&nbsp;



We consciously prioritized our professional aspirations and relished the freedom of our child-free lifestyle. We traveled, bought a Jet Ski, joined a volleyball league, threw parties and regularly met friends for dinner and drinks.&nbsp;



Little did I know, my dad would pass away from cancer at age 54—years before my first son was born. And my mother-in-law passed away when my second son was just a few months old. Neither of my boys got to meet my dad, and they were too young to remember my mother-in-law. Looking back, I wouldn’t have delayed motherhood for so long.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-5-balance-work-and-family-better">5. Balance work and family better</h2>



Once my husband and I finally did start a family, I decided to prioritize family over career for a while. I put my freelance writing on hold, allowing me to savor my boys’ childhood as a stay-at-home mom. I also decided to homeschool them off and on for 10 years.&nbsp;



I did some occasional freelance gigs, tackled sporadic projects and took on some marketing-related volunteer work. But those parenting and homeschooling years consumed me—I was all in being a mom and teacher. While I don’t regret my decision to put family first for a bit, I do wish I’d continued my freelance writing consistently. Instead, I lost touch with my professional network, fell behind on technology and had to basically start over as a “seasoned newbie” at age 50, despite having decades of experience.&nbsp;



To all the someday-moms reading, take this message to heart: <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/how-to-balance-work-and-family-without-feeling-like-a-failure/">Find ways to keep your toe in the professional world while raising your young brood</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-6-ditch-the-idea-of-job-security">6. Ditch the idea of job security</h2>



In my generation, “job security” was still a real thing. The concept of getting hired at a company you loved—then working your butt off to exceed your boss’s expectations—equated to spending decades at the same company. Now, the idea seems quaint. But in my 20s, I remember telling my entrepreneurial-minded husband that I’d&nbsp;never&nbsp;want to work for myself: It’s too risky, too scary. I wanted the “security” of a job.&nbsp;



Ironically, I ended up spending the next 35 years as a freelancer. Now, as I watch the media industry implode, see companies downsize or fold completely, feel empathy for so many people getting laid off and read stories about pay inequity between men and women in similar roles, I’m so glad my business, my income and my future rests solely in my hands. That is real job security.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-7-strengthen-those-left-brained-skills">7. Strengthen those left-brained skills</h2>



As a writer, I’m all about storytelling, creativity and out-of-the-box thinking. Engaging in these activities makes my heart sing. You know what doesn’t make my heart sing? Analyzing data. Doing taxes. Setting budgets. Understanding legal contracts. Really, anything involving numbers.&nbsp;



So, instead of improving my skills in these areas, I’d avoid them whenever I could. I’d either rely on my husband (who is a unicorn with incredible left-brain and right-brain superpowers) or I’d outsource these hated tasks to others, like accountants. While it’s smart to outsource certain parts of your business, it doesn’t mean you should avoid trying to understand them better. Play to your strengths—but shore up your weaknesses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-8-be-the-mentor-you-wish-you-had">8. Be the mentor you wish you had</h2>



By no means do I claim to be the voice for freelancers everywhere. I’m 60 and still learning new things decades into my career. But some foundational skills never change, and some common struggles remain.&nbsp;



I love helping “newbies”—and that doesn’t just mean the younger generation; many people are switching jobs and even industries—multiple times in their careers. Others are taking on side hustles. Still others hope to stave off the boredom of retirement, launching blogs, podcasts and YouTube channels to feed their souls. Why not share what I’ve learned since I started freelancing in the (gulp) 1980s?&nbsp;



That’s why I just launched a free newsletter to do exactly that—share what’s worked (and not worked) for me as a freelance writer for decades. Called <a href="https://expertishfreelancer.com/newsletter-signup/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Expert•ish&nbsp;Freelancer</a>, the newsletter aims to help others launch or elevate a freelance writing business. Of course, it will provide practical things (like tools, tips, insights, resources, etc.). But it will also help instill confidence so freelancers don’t get waylaid by imposter syndrome. That feeling of self-doubt can really limit potential and stifle dreams.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-9-continue-embracing-the-learning-mindset-nbsp">9. Continue embracing the ‘learning mindset’&nbsp;</h2>



I was always that oddball student who looked forward to the new school year. Besides the opportunity to buy some new school clothes and get a pair of new shoes, I absolutely loved learning. Unlike some people who stop reading once they graduate, I’ve continued to learn my entire life. I’d sign up for courses, visit the library, participate in workshops, get certifications, join professional associations, attend conferences and, of course, continue to read.



This approach has served me well—and still does. These days, I’m learning how to create a digital newsletter, improve my LinkedIn presence, leverage AI and master the ever-changing iOS platform on my iPhone. Learning opens the door to new opportunities, connections, perspectives and skill sets. Why would I ever want to stop that?



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-10-you-do-you">10. You do you</h2>



One of the best compliments I ever received came from a friend who praised me for being so <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/the-secrets-of-being-authentic-and-why-its-important/">authentic</a>. She gushed about me being genuine, down-to-earth and unpretentious. I wear these traits like a badge of honor, but honestly, that’s just me being me. I don’t try to be authentic—I just am. I’m not into playing games.&nbsp;



I don’t worry too much about what other people think. I don’t fall prey to being a people pleaser at my own expense. I don’t let others’ goals, paths or expectations color my decisions. I take some risks that push me a bit outside my comfort zone. I often zig when others zag. And I never want to change.



Photo courtesy of Lisa Beach.

Successful freelance writer Lisa Beach shares 10 life lessons she wishes she knew as a young professional. Learn more.

Successful freelance writer Lisa Beach shares 10 life lessons she wishes she knew as a young professional. Learn more. | SUCCESS

As I Enter My 60s, Here’s the Advice I Would Give to My Younger Self

Advice for My Younger Self as I Begin My 60s | SUCCESS

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/lisa-beach-Header.jpg

Celebrity franchises owner Venus Williams smiling in a black and silver jacket

Money

Money Archives

Achieve financial success and freedom

While <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/celebrity-brand-partnerships/">celebrities</a> might rake in millions from their “day jobs,” they’re also boosting their net worth through smart investments, endorsement deals and entrepreneurship. And, when it comes to creating wealth, diversifying financial portfolios and expanding their business, franchises emerge as a powerful asset, drawing high-profile figures like athletes, actors, singers and other celebrities into this profitable business model.



Which celebrities refining their business acumen outside of the limelight? Take a look at these 10 business-savvy celebrity franchises owners.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-patrick-mahomes">Patrick Mahomes</h2>



The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback tastes victory both on and off the field. Mahomes not only holds the NFL’s largest-ever contract (a $450 million extension in 2020), but he also owns a stake in the Texas-based Whataburger franchise. The franchise, which averages an estimated $3.2 million in revenue at each location, plans to open 30 locations throughout the next few years in Missouri and Kansas. In 2020, Mahomes also bought a minority stake in the Kansas City Royals sports franchise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-rick-ross">Rick Ross</h2>



As the founder of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/untouchablemmg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maybach Music Group</a>, Ross doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to franchise investments. The rapper owns nearly 30 Wingstop restaurants. According to Ross, the franchises generate roughly $7 million for him annually. The franchise’s profitability might explain why he gave one of his Wingstop locations to his son as a gift for his 16th birthday.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-magic-johnson">Magic Johnson</h2>



Since earning over $100 million (when adjusted for inflation) as an NBA superstar, <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/magic-johnsons-fast-break-into-business/">Magic Johnson</a> has developed into an astute investor, building a net worth of roughly $1.2 billion. As of 2022, the former Los Angeles Lakers star owned several TGI Fridays franchise locations and several Starbucks coffee shops. Going back to his athletic roots, Johnson also holds ownership interests in multiple sports franchises, including the Washington Commanders (NFL), the Los Angeles Dodgers (MLB), the Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA) and the Los Angeles Football Club (MLS).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drew-brees">Drew Brees</h2>



The former NFL quarterback scored a touchdown in retirement with his investment in multiple franchises. With a reported net worth of about $160 million, the retired New Orleans Saints star invested in the fitness-focused Stretch Zone, the healthy-foods-focused Everbowl, Dunkin’, Happy’s Irish Pub and Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mark-wahlberg">Mark Wahlberg</h2>



Proving himself a success both on- and off-screen, Wahlberg owns or invests in a variety of businesses ranging from apparel and food to car dealerships and fitness. Perhaps Wahlberg’s most famous venture is the <a href="https://wahlburgers.com/franchise" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wahlburgers franchise</a> he and his brothers founded in 2011. It continues to expand around the world, with more than 100 locations (as of press time) and a 2022 launch into Australia. It’s no surprise that Wahlberg, a workout fanatic, also invested in F45 Training, a Texas-based fitness franchise focusing on HIIT-style workouts. In 2019, he acquired a pre-IPO stake in the business (valued at roughly $450 million), which boasts more than 2,000 locations globally.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-venus-williams">Venus Williams</h2>



Hitting a grand slam with her ownership of four Jamba franchises, tennis legend <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/venus-williams-on-what-tennis-taught-her-about-life-power-and-business/">Venus Williams</a> fell in love with the health-focused brand. Famous for its customizable smoothies, juices and healthy bowls, Jamba boasts more than 750 locations in the U.S., with each location generating roughly $731,000 in revenue every year (as of 2022). Along with sister Serena, she also owns a stake in the Miami Dolphins franchise.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drake">Drake</h2>



Launched as a pop-up Hollywood eatery in 2017, <a href="https://www.daveshotchicken.com/press/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dave’s Hot Chicken</a> franchise caught the eye of rapper Drake who signed on as a stakeholder in 2021. With over 700 U.S. and international locations, the company saw 156% total sales growth in 2022 versus 2021.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shaq">Shaq</h2>



Since retiring, this larger-than-life basketball player has made a second career out of wise investing. With a net worth of over $400 million (thanks, in part, to his ownership of multiple fast-food franchises), <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/shaq-insists-hes-not-a-celebrity/">Shaquille O’Neal</a> owns 155 Five Guys burger joints, 17 Auntie Anne’s locations, as well as Papa Johns pizzerias, Krispy Kreme donut shops and Big Chicken sandwich eateries.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-megan-thee-stallion">Megan Thee Stallion</h2>



This Grammy-winning rapper inked a sizzling deal with the Miami, Florida-based Popeyes fried chicken franchise. Not only does Stallion own multiple locations, but her unique partnership also involves branded merch (Megan Thee Stallion Hottie Sauce, apparel and other products), a sizable philanthropic donation and a development deal that designates her as a franchise operator. Founded in 1972, Popeyes boasts more than 2,700 restaurants in the U.S. and globally, with each location bringing in up to nearly $2 million in revenue.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-lebron-james">LeBron James</h2>



The NBA icon hit a slam dunk in 2012 when he invested less than $1 million in the build-your-own-pie startup Blaze Pizza, headquartered in Pasadena, California. Since then, the franchise has mushroomed into more than 340 locations across 38 states and six countries. As of 2020, this part ownership/investment in the fast-casual pizza franchise has delivered an equity stake of about $35 million.



This article originally appeared in the <a href="https://store.success.com/by-media/success-magazine-may-june-2024-tony-robbins.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May/June 2024</a> issue of SUCCESS magazine. Photo by Lev Radin/Shutterstock.com

Which celebrities showcase their business acumen as owners and investors? Take a look at these 10 business-savvy celebrity franchise owners.

Which celebrities showcase their business acumen as owners and investors? Take a look at these 10 business-savvy celebrity franchise owners. | SUCCESS

These Top 10 Celebrity Franchise Owners Are Winning Outside the Limelight, Too

Top 10 Celebrity Franchise Owners

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/10-celebrity-franchises.jpg

Erika Andresen expert on Business continuity planning and author of How to Not Kill Your Business

You might think the term “business continuity” only applies to recovering from natural disasters. However, business disruptions can emerge in several ways—from a single employee’s departure, a supply chain glitch or communication breakdowns.&nbsp;



Navigating today’s tumultuous economy involves challenges and unforeseen disruptions. Business continuity planning—crucial for businesses of all sizes—ensures seamless operations, whether disruptions are a tiny tremor or a seismic shift.



Erika Andresen, founder of EaaS Consulting, LLC, underscores this in her book <a href="https://amzn.to/3TvlQfE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">How to Not Kill Your Business: Grow Your Business in Any Environment, Navigate Volatility, and Successfully Recover When Things Go Wrong</a>. She defines business continuity as the key to securing and ensuring uninterrupted business operations, offering resilience in the face of both disasters and disruptions, whether natural or human-made.



“This is not supposed to be a one-off, check-the-box event. It’s a living document that will keep a business thriving, clients satisfied and employees employed.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-inspiration-behind-how-to-not-kill-your-business">Inspiration behind How to Not Kill Your Business</h2>



When Andresen first launched her consulting firm, she targeted mom-and-pop shops, feeling they most needed business continuity planning.







“I was coming… from a place of helping those who needed it most—and small businesses, by and large, are completely unaware of the practice of business continuity,” says Andresen, noting that global corporations and large companies have been practicing it for decades. Andresen felt there was no reason for small companies to not engage in business continuity, too, so she set out to change that.



But in her initial market research, she discovered smaller shops had no interest in spending money on business continuity planning. Instead of allowing this to kill her business, Andresen pivoted, writing her book with small business owners top of mind. “I want to move the needle for $5 on Kindle or $20 for paperback to protect their investment and keep their dream alive.”



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-tips-for-business-continuity-planning">3 tips for business continuity planning</h2>



Many small businesses delay action, either waiting to grow or until a crisis looms. Andresen highlights the peril of optimism bias—the belief you’ll only have positive experiences and the odds of negative experiences won’t impact you. “Waiting only causes things to happen at a slower pace,” she says, noting that proactive measures better prepare you for future disruptions.



Andresen shares a valuable lesson from one of her <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/how-to-be-a-successful-solopreneur/">solopreneur</a> clients. Initially, the client was hesitant to apply business continuity principles until she grew her business. But her vulnerabilities became apparent through a series of questioning from Andresen. After implementing Andresen’s suggestions, the client realized she couldn’t grow without the security business continuity offers. “Business continuity buys you confidence, security, opportunity and time,” Andresen says.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-proactive-preparation-for-volatility">1. Proactive preparation for volatility</h3>



Proactively preparing for and navigating volatility only starts with creating a business continuity plan. Andresen says you also need to train and exercise the plan—starting at the top.



“Without leadership buy-in, the preparedness for an effective business continuity plan plummets,” she explains. Staff training and exercising the plan allows everyone to learn what to do and what could go wrong. “It’s better to figure this out in advance than during the disaster,” Andresen says, noting that working ahead provides an opportunity to fix the plan. “This is not supposed to be a one-off, check-the-box event. It’s a living document that will keep a business thriving, clients satisfied and employees employed.”



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-cultivate-resilience">2. Cultivate resilience</h3>



Andresen weaves the theme of resilience throughout her book, guiding readers through self-reflection and prompting them to identify blind spots or unrecognized pain points. For instance, she notes that the pandemic shifted the value paradigm toward employees as the most important asset. “You cultivate organizational resilience by investing in the people who work for you, who execute the procedures the way you want and who are the face of your company when they interact with clients,” Andresen says.



Also, Andresen advises that looking ahead and anticipating risks creates an agile company. “Agility promotes creativity and growth. Don’t see it as a cost or chore—it’s an opportunity,” she explains.



Owners can build their personal resilience by creating businesses that do not need them present 24/7. “Getting ahead of risks, installing control measures for any single points of failure and building redundancies—all part of the business continuity process—will give business owners the freedom to step away, recharge and trust that the business will continue thriving.”



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-balancing-growth-with-stability-and-sustainability">3. Balancing growth with stability and sustainability</h3>



Andresen provides a stark reality check in a growth-focused world. <a href="https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/what-is-a-growth-mindset/">Growth</a>, she contends, is impossible without stability, and stability is unattainable without business continuity. Building a business continuity plan allows owners to learn the ins and outs of their business and identify their critical operations crucial for survival, she explains.&nbsp;



Most owners make a lot of assumptions about what those critical operations are. But without having done a risk assessment with a business impact analysis, she argues, they may be investing time and money in the wrong strategy. “The cost of not doing business continuity is too high: loss of market share, loss of customers, loss of employees, loss of reputation and, ultimately, the loss of your business,” she explains. “How can you grow from that? You can’t.”&nbsp;



This article originally appeared in the <a href="https://store.success.com/by-media/success-magazine-may-june-2024-tony-robbins.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May/June 2024</a> issue of SUCCESS magazine. Photo courtesy of Erika Andresen

Erika Andresen helps leaders navigate disruptions beyond disasters with her book on business continuity planning.

Erika Andresen helps leaders navigate disruptions beyond disasters with her book on business continuity planning, How to Not Kill Your Business. | SUCCESS

Unlocking Resilience: 3 Tips for Business Continuity Planning

Erika Andresen’s Top 3 Tips for Business Continuity Planning | SUCCESS

https://successcom.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Erika-Andresen-Business-continuity-planning-header.jpg