Big Questions with Cal Fussman

Sarah Dusek, founder of a $100-million company, shares step-by-step advice on turning ideas into fortunes. They discuss pivoting to a new business model, starting a business in difficult times, scaling and hiring, and the emotional experience of selling a business.

We’re taught from birth to measure wealth in currency, but Joe Huff and Bridget Hilton have created one of the largest surveys on life experiences ever done. And their research shows that the number one regret of the dying isn’t about money, it’s about the experiences people wished they’d had – but never did. Bridget and Joe have written a book called Experiential Billionaire that includes tools to show you how to live a life with a mountain of experiences and few regrets. You will not regret listening to this episode.

Cal replays the conversation with a man who was working on the 81 st floor of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 when the hijacked planes hit. Michael Wright describes how he survived when he reached the ground and one of the towers fell on his head. We should remember, so that we never forget. Please pass this episode on to anyone you know who might like to hear it. It will be relevant 500 years from now.

The world of sports is about being the best you can be. Award-winning sportswriter Sally Jenkins of the Washington Post has compiled wisdom from the courts and fields into a book titled The Right Call. We can bring so many of the tactics that elevate athletes and coaches into our own work and personal lives. This episode is a walking treasure trove . . .

Tom Cruise, an actor who overcame a difficult childhood, discusses his solutions for success. Topics include his childhood, his mother's resilience, his nomadic upbringing, his passion for stunts, and transforming problems into a beautiful life.

Anyone who’s ever had a medical problem knows how good it feels to talk to somebody who’s successfully gone through the same treatment. Patient Partner gives everybody the chance to have someone to lean on. Mentors are all vetted. It’s highly confidential. Great friendships are formed. And it’s free! This is a service that shouldn’t be passed up. Simply listening to this episode will give you good karma.  

Simon Alexander Ong, author of Energize, discusses the connection between energy and purpose, shares his experience working at Lehman Brothers during the financial crisis, and emphasizes the importance of sunlight, exercise, and sleep for increased energy levels. He also explores techniques for overcoming unhealthy habits and reframing rejection, while emphasizing the power of living in the present moment.

Last year, the editor in chief of Entrepreneur Magazine released a book that is an action plan for embracing change and future proofing your career. This book takes on exponential meaning with the emergence of artificial intelligence. Jason, one of the world’s great optimists, allays fears that the public has about A.I. by pointing out panicked reactions to great innovations in the past that we now embrace. Cal wonders if we are taking baby steps toward the end of humanity. Enjoy!

When Cal first met the comedian, he was starting out as Irish Dave. Now, the author of Do You Talk Funny? is packing comedy clubs under his legal name, David Nihill, and identifying with Mexicans. It’s a long story that will make you laugh. The bottom line is: Everybody would love to be funnier. On this episode, Dave will show you how.

Cal catches up with the Stanford lecturer who’s spent a lifetime showing people how to think faster and speak better in public. It all started when Matt embarrassed himself by ripping his pants doing a karate speech in high school. He has since developed decades of tips to help you whether you’re making a business presentation or giving a wedding toast. Listen up. This episode is a burst of confidence.