Leap Academy with Ilana Golan

Brian Keane’s journey is a powerful example of embracing change and conquering fear. Originally a primary school teacher in London, Brian realized teaching wasn’t his true calling and made a bold leap into fitness, despite doubts from family and peers. With his mom’s support, he overcame numerous challenges to become a three-time bestselling author, certified strength and conditioning coach, and ultra-marathon runner. In this episode, Brian joins Ilana to share how he tackled fear, turned his career around, and undertook the most daring endurance challenges, including running through the Sahara Desert and the Arctic. Brian Keane is a bestselling author, online fitness coach, and nutritionist. He is the founder of Brian Keane Fitness, where he helps clients transform their bodies and mindset for the long term, and the host of The Brian Keane Podcast, one of Ireland and the UK’s top health podcasts. In this episode, Ilana and Brian will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (02:02) From Teaching to Full-Time Fitness (09:17) Crushing the Fear of Failure in Career Transitions (12:31) Navigating Burnout While Building a Fitness Career (18:22) Balancing Passion with Business Skills (23:40) The Power of Mindset in Achieving Success (30:57) The Framework for Building Sustainable Habits (35:39) How to Overcome Comparison and Stay Focused (43:12) Tackling Ultra Marathons and Extreme Challenges (52:00) Learning from Setbacks and Building Resilience (1:00:00) Embracing Change and Taking Action Brian Keane is a bestselling author, online fitness coach, and nutritionist. He is the founder of Brian Keane Fitness, where he helps clients transform their bodies and mindset for the long term, and the host of The Brian Keane Podcast, one of Ireland and the UK’s top health podcasts. As an ultra-endurance athlete, Brian has completed several challenging races, including six back-to-back marathons through the Sahara Desert, a 230 km race through the Arctic Circle, and has also led an expedition to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. Connect with Brian: Brian’s Website: briankeanefitness.com  Brian’s Instagram: instagram.com/brian_keane_fitness  Resources Mentioned: Brian’s Book, The Fitness Mindset: Eat for Energy, Train for Tension, Manage Your Mindset, Reap the Results: https://www.amazon.com/Fitness-Mindset-tension-mindset-results/dp/1781332525  Brian’s Book, Rewriting Your Story: Seven Habits to Help You Reclaim Your Power, Let Go of Fear, and Change the Narratives That Hold You Back: https://www.amazon.co.uk/REWRITING-YOUR-STORY-RECLAIM-NARRATIVES/dp/B0DWB1ZSL3  Brian’s Book, Rewire Your Mindset: Own Your Thinking, Control Your Actions, Change Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Rewire-Your-Mindset-Thinking-Control/dp/1781334234  The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business Paperback by Charles Duhigg: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/081298160X Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299  Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

Tony Khan was captivated by sports and wrestling from a young age. After immersing himself in sports analytics, he joined his father’s ventures, using his expertise to build a data-driven team at the Jacksonville Jaguars. Witnessing Fulham’s struggles, Tony saw an opportunity to apply his skills to improve the team and took it. His passion for wrestling ultimately led him to launch All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Despite initial skepticism, Tony’s vision and perseverance allowed AEW to thrive, becoming a major disruptor in the wrestling world. In this episode, Tony joins Ilana to share the power of taking bold actions and seizing opportunities. Tony Khan is the founder, president, and CEO of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a leading professional wrestling promotion. He also holds executive roles with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL and Fulham F.C. in the English Premier League. In this episode, Ilana and Tony will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:56) His Early Passion for Sports and Wrestling (04:52) Shifting from Engineering to Finance (08:35) Building a Data-Driven Sports Team at the Jaguars (14:24) Overcoming Setbacks at Fulham FC (18:41) The Birth of All Elite Wrestling (AEW) (22:22) Earning Trust and Disrupting the Wrestling World (28:55) Navigating AEW Through the Pandemic (35:53) Acquiring Ring of Honor to Preserve Its Legacy (38:21) Honoring Wrestling Legends and Their Impact (41:10) Thriving in a Highly Competitive Industry (43:03) The Key to Breaking into Media and Entertainment (46:36) Making the Most of Opportunities in Life Tony Khan is the founder, president, and CEO of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), a leading professional wrestling promotion. He also holds executive roles with the Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL and Fulham F.C. in the English Premier League. With a background in finance and sports analytics, Tony has revolutionized the business of sports entertainment, positioning AEW as a major competitor to WWE. He was awarded "Promoter of the Year" and "Best Booker" by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter for three consecutive years. Connect with Tony: Tony’s Instagram: instagram.com/tonyrkhan  Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

Tim Storey grew up facing financial struggles, family instability, and a devastating loss at a young age. When his father tragically passed away in a car accident, it could have broken him. Instead, Tim leaned on his family for support and drew strength from his faith and community. This resilience led him to become a life coach, eventually earning the title of "comeback coach" for stars like Robert Downey Jr., Charlie Sheen, and Grant Cardone. In this episode, Tim joins Ilana to share the pivotal moments that shaped his life, the power of maintaining a "miracle mentality," and the role of resilience, discipline, and consistency in achieving success. Tim Storey is a life coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, known as the "Original Comeback Coach." With over three decades of experience, he has helped individuals, including high-profile clients, turn setbacks into comebacks.  In this episode, Ilana and Tim will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (02:00) Growing Up in a Challenging Childhood (03:56) Coping with Tragedy and Finding Strength (07:54) How Mentors and Teachers Shaped His Life (13:34) Building His Own Path to Success (18:46) The Mindset to Overcome Life’s Challenges (20:39) Understanding the Miracle Mentality (22:29) Thriving in the Age of Digital Overload (25:48) Pushing Through Pain to Achieve Success (31:29) How to Create Opportunities and Get Results (34:07) The Power of Living in the Moment Tim Storey is a life coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author, known as the "Original Comeback Coach." With over three decades of experience, he has helped individuals, including high-profile clients, turn setbacks into comebacks. Tim is the author of several bestselling books, including The Miracle Mentality, and has spoken in 78 countries, reaching millions through his books, keynotes, and media appearances. Connect with Tim: Tim’s Website: timstorey.com  Tim’s Instagram: instagram.com/timstoreyofficial  Resources Mentioned: Tim’s Book, The Miracle Mentality: Tap into the Source of Magical Transformation in Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Miracle-Mentality-Source-Magical-Transformation/dp/0785236724  The Agony and the Ecstasy: A Biographical Novel of Michelangelo by Irvin Stone: https://www.amazon.com/Agony-Ecstasy-Biographical-Novel-Michelangelo/dp/0451171357 Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

Bernard Hampton’s journey from modest beginnings to Managing Director and The Head of The Academy at Bank of America is a testament to hard work, learning, and leadership. Raised in a middle-class family with a strong work ethic, Bernard’s early experiences shaped his leadership approach. From his start as a sales associate at RadioShack to leading over a thousand employees globally at Bank of America, he has always believed in the power of people and emotional intelligence. In this episode, Bernard shares strategies for transitioning into leadership, navigating crises, and the power of continuous learning in career growth. Bernard Hampton is a Managing Director and The Head of The Academy at Bank of America, where he leads global employee training and development initiatives for over 200,000 employees. In this episode, Ilana and Bernard will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (01:39) Early Experiences That Shaped His Leadership (07:17) Joining Bank of America (09:02) Leading Through Crisis and Uncertainty (12:42) Four Keys to Stronger Team Dynamics (19:31) The Power of Origin Stories in Leadership (24:15) Leading Talent Development at Bank of America (30:07) The Value of Career Mentors and Sponsors (33:40) Building a Culture of Learning and Growth (38:10) Empowering Your Community as a Leader (39:45) Four Steps to Unlock Your Leadership Potential (45:30) Balancing Leadership with Personal Life Bernard Hampton is a Managing Director and The Head of The Academy at Bank of America, where he leads global employee training and development initiatives for over 200,000 employees. He is also a member of Leadership Florida's Executive Class 12 and serves on the Board of Directors for the Urban League of Palm Beach County, contributing to efforts that promote economic growth and community development. Connect with Bernard: Bernard’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bernardfhampton  Resources Mentioned: Bank of America: bankofamerica.com  The Academy: https://careers.bankofamerica.com/en-us/career-development/the-academy  Do Hard Things: Why We Get Resilience Wrong and the Surprising Science of Real Toughness by Steve Magness: https://www.amazon.com/Hard-Things-Resilience-Surprising-Toughness/dp/006309861X  Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

Mo Gawdat was thriving in his career as Chief Business Officer at Google X, enjoying wealth, success, and a loving family. However, his life took a dramatic turn after the tragic loss of his son, Ali. This loss made Mo realize that happiness isn’t defined by external factors but by how we perceive and navigate life’s challenges. Letting go of everything that once defined success, including his career, Mo reinvented himself as an advocate for happiness, dedicating his life to helping others live with less stress and more joy. In this episode, Mo joins Ilana to share how he transformed his life after tragedy and reveals his formula for finding happiness, managing stress, and creating lasting fulfillment. Mo Gawdat is an Egyptian entrepreneur, four-time bestselling author, and former Chief Business Officer at Google X. He founded the mission #OneBillionHappy, dedicated to helping others lead happier lives. In this episode, Ilana and Mo will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (02:07) Growing up in Egypt with a Passion for Tech (05:38) Coding and Landing a Job at IBM (11:02) Building Trust and Success in Sales (16:14) Struggling with Happiness Despite Success (21:35) Discovering the Algorithm of Happiness (27:02) The Devastating Loss of His Son (33:01) Turning Grief Into a Global Mission of Happiness (40:00) Leaving Google in Pursuit of True Fulfillment (46:47) Understanding and Managing Stress (01:00:24) Why Life is Like a Video Game Mo Gawdat is an Egyptian entrepreneur, four-time bestselling author, and former Chief Business Officer at Google X. With a background in engineering and over 30 years in the tech industry, he has held leadership roles at IBM, NCR, Microsoft, and Google, where he helped launch operations in over 50 countries. Mo developed a formula for happiness, which he shares in his book Solve for Happy, and founded the mission #OneBillionHappy, dedicated to helping others lead happier lives. Connect with Mo: Mo’s Website: mogawdat.com  Mo’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mogawdat  Mo’s Substack: substack.com/@mogawdat  Resources Mentioned: Mo’s Book, Solve for Happy: Engineer Your Path to Joy: https://www.amazon.com/Solve-Happy-Engineer-Your-Path/dp/1501157558  Mo’s Book, Unstressable: A Practical Guide to Stress-Free Living: https://www.amazon.com/Unstressable-Practical-Guide-Stress-Free-Living/dp/1035022729 Mo’s Book, That Little Voice In Your Head: Adjust the Code That Runs Your Brain: https://www.amazon.com/That-Little-Voice-Your-Head/dp/152906614X  Mo’s Book, Scary Smart: The Future of Artificial Intelligence and How You Can Save Our World: https://www.amazon.com/Scary-Smart-Future-Artificial-Intelligence/dp/1529077621 Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

James Currier was born an entrepreneur. Before turning 18, he had launched 18 businesses. After years in corporate jobs, he fully embraced his entrepreneurial calling. He co-founded Tickle, one of the internet’s first successful user-generated platforms, which grew to 150 million users before being acquired by Monster.com for $110 million. Now, as a founding partner at NFX, he invests in high-growth startups leveraging network effects. In this episode, James joins Ilana to discuss the power of network effects in scaling businesses, the key traits of great founders, and how to spot technology windows for timely investments. James Currier is a five-time founder, angel investor in DoorDash, Lyft, and Patreon, and a founding partner at NFX, an early-stage venture capital firm. He is an expert in building high-growth companies that leverage network effects.  In this episode, Ilana and James will discuss: (00:00) Introduction  (00:27) Embracing Entrepreneurship from a Young Age (04:35) From Corporate Jobs to Building His First Startup (08:45) Navigating Rejections and the Dot-Com Crash (12:24) Understanding Viral vs. Network Effects (19:12) The Reality of Running Multiple Startups  (21:26) Why Attempting to Fix Healthcare Was a Mistake (27:10) Building NFX into a Leading Venture Firm (31:58) Balancing Optimism and Risk in Investing (35:16) The Key Traits that Make a Great Founder (37:45) What It Takes to Be a Successful Entrepreneur (40:33) The Role of Technology Windows in Startup Success James Currier is a five-time founder, angel investor in DoorDash, Lyft, and Patreon, and a founding partner at NFX, an early-stage venture capital firm. He co-founded Tickle, one of the internet’s first successful user-generated companies, which was acquired by Monster.com. James also co-founded Wonderhill (merged with Kabam), IronPearl (acquired by PayPal), and Jiff (merged with Castlight). He is an expert in building high-growth companies that leverage network effects.  Connect with James: James’s Website: nfx.com James’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jamescurrier  Resources Mentioned: NFX Article, Viral Effects Are Not Network Effects: https://www.nfx.com/post/viral-effects-vs-network-effects  NFX Article, Technology Windows: The Unseen Force Driving Your Startup: https://www.nfx.com/post/technology-windows NFX Article, How “Venture Capital 3.0” Impacts Founders in the AI Age: https://www.nfx.com/post/venture-capital-3  Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

After studying law, Daniel Pink transitioned into politics, serving as the chief speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore. However, he soon felt unfulfilled and realized his true calling wasn’t in a structured career with defined rules, but in writing. Despite the uncertainty, he made the leap, leaving politics behind to pursue writing full-time. This decision led to multiple bestselling books, including his latest, The Power of Regret. In this episode, Daniel joins Ilana to discuss how embracing regret, rather than avoiding it, leads to profound growth and how we can turn our past decisions into catalysts for a better future.Daniel Pink is a bestselling author and speaker known for his work on business, work, and human behavior. His books have been translated into 46 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide.In this episode, Ilana and Daniel will discuss:(00:00) Introduction (01:51) Growing Up with a Love for Books(06:13) Transitioning from Law School to Politics(09:49) Becoming a Speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore(12:24) Why He Chose a Career in Writing Over Politics(16:07) From Struggling Writer to Bestselling Author(18:06) Uncovering the Key to Human Motivation(21:55) The Science of Timing and the Midpoint Slump(26:43) Embracing Regret as a Catalyst for Growth(30:21) The Four Types of Regret and Their Impact(34:59) Turning Regret Into Action and Growth(40:08) Daniel’s Motivation for Writing Books(42:04) The Power of Ignoring What Others ThinkDaniel Pink is a bestselling author and speaker known for his work on business, work, and human behavior. Before becoming a full-time author, he held several positions in politics and government, including serving as the chief speechwriter for Vice President Al Gore. Daniel has since written seven New York Times bestsellers, including Drive, When, and his latest, The Power of Regret. His books have been translated into 46 languages and have sold millions of copies worldwide.Connect with Daniel:Daniel’s Website: danpink.com Daniel’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danielpink Resources Mentioned:Daniel’s Book, The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Regret-Looking-Backward-Forward/dp/B098VRLZ2H Daniel’s Book, A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future: https://www.amazon.com/Whole-New-Mind-Right-Brainers-Future/dp/1594481717Daniel’s Book, When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing:https://www.amazon.com/When-Scientific-Secrets-Perfect-Timing/dp/B076MBR89WDaniel’s Book, Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us: https://www.amazon.com/Drive-Surprising-Truth-About-Motivates/dp/B0032COUMCLeap Academy:Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

Dr. John Demartini’s childhood was marked by major obstacles, from a severe speech impediment and dyslexia to a rough start in school. Told that he would never read, write, or communicate, he defied the odds. At age 13, he left home and embarked on a journey that would take him from street life to a global career as a human behavior specialist and entrepreneur. In this episode, John joins Ilana to share how he turned adversity into fuel for success, the mindset that led him to create the Demartini Institute, and how he overcame his learning disabilities to become one of the world’s most influential speakers.Dr. John Demartini is a human behavior expert, researcher, author, and founder of the Demartini Institute. He has studied over 30,000 books, written more than 40, and shared his knowledge in 161 countries.In this episode, Ilana and John will discuss:(00:00) Introduction (01:48) Early Life Struggles and Dyslexia(04:47) Surviving on the Streets as a Teenager(08:26) Finding Purpose After a Near-Death Experience(12:10) Overcoming Learning Challenges(18:28) Discovering His Passion for Teaching(31:34) Leveraging Personal Values for Success(34:01) Turning Fear into a Business Ally(38:00) Adapting to Market Shifts(41:30) The Key to Charging What You’re Worth(49:56) Living Life by Design, Not DutyDr. John Demartini is a human behavior expert, researcher, author, and founder of the Demartini Institute. With over 40 years of research, he has developed methodologies to help individuals unlock their potential by understanding their values. Despite being diagnosed with dyslexia at an early age, John overcame this challenge, turning it into a driving force. He has studied over 30,000 books, written more than 40, and shared his knowledge in 161 countries.Connect with John:John’s Website: https://drdemartini.com John’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjohndemartini  Resources Mentioned:The Time Trap: The Classic Book on Time Management by Alec Mackenzie: https://www.amazon.com/Time-Trap-Classic-Book-Management/dp/0814413382 Leap Academy:Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

As a shy kid, Alex Carter struggled to speak up for herself. Her parents’ divorce sparked her interest in advocacy and mediation, which led her to pursue a law degree. Despite facing self-doubt early in her career, Alex bet on herself and built a career as a Columbia Law professor and renowned negotiation expert. Now, she helps others find their voice, advocate for themselves, and unlock career success. In this episode, Alex joins Ilana to share actionable strategies for negotiating with confidence, landing promotions, charging your worth, and scaling a business.Alex Carter is a negotiation expert, Columbia Law professor, and bestselling author. She specializes in helping professionals and entrepreneurs build the confidence to negotiate effectively in high-stakes situations.In this episode, Ilana and Alex will discuss:(00:00) Introduction (01:49) Finding Her Voice and Building Confidence(06:56) Pursuing a Career in Law and Mediation(10:52) Betting on Yourself Despite Self-Doubt(14:25) The Power of Negotiating for Yourself(19:48) How to Secure Your First Big Client(24:39) Negotiating Your Way to Career Success(30:41) Key Steps in Preparing for a Negotiation(39:36) Face-to-Face vs. Email Negotiations(41:44) Negotiating Across Cultures(43:06) Practical Solutions to Business Challenges(45:52) How to Scale by Leveraging Your TimeAlex Carter is a negotiation expert, Columbia Law professor, and bestselling author. She specializes in helping professionals and entrepreneurs build the confidence to negotiate effectively in high-stakes situations. With a background in law and mediation, Alex teaches practical strategies for securing promotions, landing clients, and navigating complex negotiations. Her work empowers individuals to advocate for themselves and achieve career success.Connect with Alex:Alex’s Website: alexcarterasks.com Alex’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alexandrabcarter Resources Mentioned:Alex’s Book, Ask for More: 10 Questions to Negotiate Anything: https://www.amazon.com/Ask-More-Questions-Negotiate-Anything/dp/1982130482 Leap Academy:Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training

Chemi Peres’s journey to success was shaped by both professional challenges and personal loss. After losing his job, he felt humiliated and vowed never to face such a setback again. He pivoted to venture capitalism, co-founding Pitango Venture Capital, Israel’s largest venture fund. Despite his success, Chemi experienced the profound losses of both his father and son. These tragedies fueled his drive to honor their legacies through innovation. In this episode, Chemi joins Ilana to share how he navigated grief and adversity, transforming these experiences into a force for lasting impact.Chemi Peres is the co-founder and managing partner of Pitango Venture Capital, Israel’s largest venture fund, which has invested in over 250 startups. He is also the Chairman of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, a non-profit dedicated to advancing peace and technology in the Middle East.In this episode, Ilana and Chemi will discuss:(00:00) Introduction (02:00) Growing Up in a Political Legacy(05:21) The Challenges in Becoming a Combat Pilot(07:59) Lessons from the Israeli Defense Forces(11:59) Transitioning to Aerospace and Career Setback(20:13) Entering the Venture Capital World(27:01) Building Israel's Venture Ecosystem(31:14) Navigating Challenges in Venture Capital(34:52) Turning Personal Loss into a Legacy of Innovation(41:27) Healing by Honoring a Loved One’s Dreams(49:34) How the Peres Center is Shaping Israel’s FutureChemi Peres is the co-founder and managing partner of Pitango Venture Capital, Israel’s largest venture fund, which has invested in over 250 startups. As the son of former Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres, Chemi continues his father's legacy by promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. He is also the Chairman of the Peres Center for Peace and Innovation, a non-profit dedicated to advancing peace and technology in the Middle East.Connect with Chemi:Chemi’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chemiperes Resources Mentioned:Pitango’s Website: pitango.com Yuka Monsters’ Website: yukamonsters.com Leap Academy:Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time.Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training