Up2
53 episodes - English - Latest episode: 7 months ago - ★★★★★ - 66 ratingsRefreshingly 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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Episodes
W. Scott Stornetta: Technologist; Capital Allocator; And CEO
October 10, 2023 16:39 - 43 minutes - 80.4 MBWikipedia 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.
Dr. David Agus: The World’s Physician Is Never Satisfied
August 24, 2023 16:59 - 53 minutes - 98.5 MBDr 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 ro...
John Bendheim: Beverly Hills’ Most Popular Dealmaker And Friend
February 01, 2023 14:29 - 53 minutes - 97.3 MBHaving 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, publishin...
Shelby Scarbrough: White House Veteran.... Civility Champion
December 28, 2022 14:55 - 51 minutes - 94.1 MBAfter 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.
Jim McKelvey: Artist; Technologist; Public Servant
December 08, 2022 14:17 - 53 minutes - 98.8 MBAfter 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...
Tim Shriver: A Man Who Could Do Anything
October 25, 2022 21:03 - 57 minutes - 105 MBBorn 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.
Ted Souder: Google and Beyond
September 13, 2022 21:30 - 1 hour - 145 MBHaving 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.
Jim Jameson: Capitalist-at-Large
August 01, 2022 21:18 - 55 minutes - 76.4 MBTalking 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 2...
Dirk Junge : Harleys, Helis, and Heritage
July 11, 2022 18:41 - 51 minutes - 71.3 MBHe 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 ...
Peter Goldstone: A ”Level 5 Leader” Living Life in Full
May 05, 2022 16:13 - 51 minutes - 118 MBPeter 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 mana...
Andre Pienaar: International Man of Intelligence
January 05, 2022 18:33 - 49 minutes - 114 MBAndre 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, a...
Dale Jones: A Global Leader Filled With Gratitude
December 21, 2021 15:01 - 47 minutes - 108 MBMany 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 ov...
Shelby Coffey: Intellect & Acclaimed Journalist
October 19, 2021 20:08 - 1 hour - 139 MBShelby 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.
Dan Richards: A Curious Entrepreneur Sells Young
September 01, 2021 15:39 - 52 minutes - 119 MBDan 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.
Dr Mark Tager: Resilience, Optimism & Enhancing Your Presence
July 06, 2021 15:30 - 54 minutes - 126 MBSan-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.
Carol Melton: Adeft on Wall Street, in Washington, and Beyond
June 15, 2021 18:07 - 55 minutes - 128 MBWhat 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.
Rick Goings: From Selling Door-to-Door to CEO
May 24, 2021 21:20 - 43 minutes - 98.8 MBRick 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.
Jodie McLean: Keeping it "Hyperlocal" with a $6 Billion Dollar Business
May 04, 2021 15:17 - 51 minutes - 118 MBWashington, 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.
Pankaj Shah: Silicon Valley Super Angel and Start-Up Entrepreneur
April 13, 2021 13:57 - 46 minutes - 105 MBPalo 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 su...
Dave Ciccone: The American Dream
April 13, 2021 13:57 - 57 minutes - 132 MBWashington, 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 ...
Philippe Bourguignon: The Choice of Optimism
December 15, 2020 10:00 - 51 minutes - 70 MBPhilippe 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 leader...
Kalika Yap: Meditating, Marathons, and Mantras
September 29, 2020 09:00 - 56 minutes - 76.2 MBKalika 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.
Jean-Claude Kihn: Former Goodyear President and Renaissance Man
September 01, 2020 09:00 - 49 minutes - 66.5 MBJean-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 A...
Waverly Willis: From “Well-Groomed Dope Fiend” to Bitcoin Barber
August 04, 2020 09:00 - 48 minutes - 65 MBA 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 s...
Dr David Agus: Driven by Hope and Inspiration
July 21, 2020 09:00 - 52 minutes - 71.3 MBDr. 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 ...
John DiJulius: Finding the Gift in Every Situation
July 07, 2020 09:00 - 53 minutes - 73 MBJohn 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...
General Laura Lenderman: Part of Something Bigger Than Yourself
June 23, 2020 09:00 - 48 minutes - 65.2 MBBrigadier 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.
Ted Souder: 20 Years at Google and Looking Ahead
June 09, 2020 09:00 - 50 minutes - 68.5 MBTed 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.
Reflecting on Season 2: a Micro Episode
April 29, 2020 09:00 - 22 minutes - 29.6 MBSeason 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.
Doug Holladay: Ambassador; Professor; and Author.
March 27, 2020 09:00 - 54 minutes - 73.5 MBDoug 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 wi...
Fred Koury: Sales, Smarts, and Service
February 04, 2020 10:00 - 49 minutes - 67.2 MBFred 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 runni...
Dr. Marc Gillinov: Heart Health, Chocolate, and Wine
January 22, 2020 10:00 - 47 minutes - 63.7 MBDr 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.
Bernie Moreno: The Delusional Optimist
January 07, 2020 10:00 - 1 hour - 81.7 MBBernie 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 b...
Baker Mayfield: Humble Over Hype
December 17, 2019 10:00 - 24 minutes - 33.1 MBIn 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.
Adam Kaufman: Our Host’s Story
December 03, 2019 10:00 - 56 minutes - 77.3 MBUsually 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?
Scott Wolstein: Creating Consensus and Leading with Compassion
November 12, 2019 09:00 - 47 minutes - 63.8 MBScott 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.
Joe Pulizzi: "The Godfather's" Goal-Setting Practice that could Change Your Life
October 29, 2019 09:00 - 51 minutes - 69.7 MBJoe 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.
Philippe Bourguignon: A Life of Creativity and Passion
October 15, 2019 09:00 - 39 minutes - 53.8 MBPhilippe 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.
Ambassador Doug Holladay: Embrace Your Fears and Live a Life of Meaning
October 01, 2019 09:00 - 45 minutes - 61 MBAmbassador 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.
Special Series with Umberto Fedeli: Session Three
September 17, 2019 09:00 - 43 minutes - 58.9 MBBusiness 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.
Special Series with Umberto Fedeli: Session Two
September 03, 2019 09:01 - 37 minutes - 50.2 MBBusiness 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.
Special Series with Umberto Fedeli: Session One
August 20, 2019 09:00 - 35 minutes - 47.3 MBComing 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...
Shoes Off with Sheryl Palmer
April 30, 2019 04:01 - 43 minutes - 58.7 MBIn 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@up2found...
Achieving Balance with Congressman Anthony Gonzalez
April 16, 2019 04:01 - 35 minutes - 48.2 MBIn 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!
Talking Billions and Biking with Stewart Kohl
April 02, 2019 04:01 - 34 minutes - 46.2 MBAdam 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!
Breaking Bread with Umberto Fedeli
March 19, 2019 04:01 - 35 minutes - 47.1 MBIn 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!
Breaking Bread with Umberto Fedeli
March 19, 2019 04:01 - 35 minutesIn 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!
Eric Chen: Leading with a Grain of Humility
March 05, 2019 05:01 - 31 minutes - 42.5 MBIn 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!
Creating Connectivity with Charu Ramanathan
February 19, 2019 05:01 - 34 minutes - 46.4 MBIn 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.
Navigating Curves in the Road with Bobby George
February 05, 2019 05:01 - 31 minutes - 42.2 MBIn 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!