S1 E18 Sean Vassilaros Interview The Journey of an Entrepreneur: Lessons Learned

Summary

 

In this episode of the Make Work Work Better podcast, host Marc Reynolds engages with Sean Vassilaros, an entrepreneur and leader passionate about improving workplace dynamics. Sean shares his journey from starting a tech company in the 90s to navigating personal and professional challenges, emphasizing the importance of optimism, character, and purpose in leadership. He discusses his involvement with Operation Underground Railroad, a nonprofit fighting human trafficking, and highlights the significance of character traits in effective leadership. The conversation culminates in Sean's advocacy for 'character intelligence' as a vital component in today's business landscape, aiming to restore integrity and purpose in the workplace.

 

Takeaways

• Optimism can significantly impact leadership effectiveness.
• The character traits of integrity, accountability, humility, respect, confidence, and grit are essential for good leadership.
• Character intelligence is crucial in today's business environment.
• The importance of acknowledging challenges in the workplace.
• Creating a culture that values character can transform organizations.
• Check out Sean's Daughter's Foundation
• Check out Sean's new startup Kanny.com
• Check out Operation Underground Railroad 

Sound Bites

• "I want to embrace optimism in everything we do."
• "We need leaders with integrity and humility."
• "Character intelligence is crucial in today's world."
• "A handshake should mean something again."
• "We need to reward character in the workplace."
• "Let's change the world with character intelligence."

Chapters

 

00:00 Introduction to Making Work Work Better

01:40 Sean's Entrepreneurial Journey

06:50 The Importance of Optimism in Leadership

15:18 Involvement with Operation Underground Railroad

21:05 Character Traits in Leadership

33:58 Creating a Foundation in Honor of a Daughter

39:15 Championing Character Intelligence

 

Keywords

 

leadership, optimism, entrepreneurship, character traits, human trafficking, purpose, healthcare, technology, personal growth, nonprofit