HawkeTalk

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Chad Willardson, founder and CEO of Pacific Capital, to hear how he went from a young Merrill Lynch trainee during the tech bubble to building a premier boutique wealth management firm for entrepreneurs.Chad shares how growing up in Orange County shaped his values, why basketball and Michael Jordan fueled his competitive spirit, and what it really took to survive in a “shark tank” Wall Street training program where only three of 140 made it through. After nine years at Merrill Lynch and a front-row seat to the chaos of the 2008 financial crisis, Chad walked away from a seven-figure salary, lucrative offers from Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, and even a multimillion-dollar signing bonus. Instead, he chose freedom, authenticity, and the chance to start over from zero.We dive into the struggles and triumphs of launching Pacific Capital in 2011, from fighting off frivolous lawsuits to learning the nuts and bolts of leases, payroll, and leadership. Chad opens up about finding his niche serving growth-minded entrepreneurs, scaling his firm to $25M+ minimums, and why taking care of clients above all else has been the key to long-term success.Through it all, Chad’s story is a reminder that persistence, integrity, and the courage to leave comfort for calling can transform both a career and a life.In this episode: (00:00) The best advice Chad ever got: take care of clients first(04:34) Surviving Merrill Lynch’s “boiler room” training days(10:24) Walking away from Merrill Lynch despite seven-figure earnings(15:54) Building a boutique family office model(22:15) Expanding services like tax strategy and travel concierge(23:20) Why entrepreneurs are underserved in wealth management(24:58) Advice on persistence and always putting clients firstHawke Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en https://hawkemedia.com/https://twitter.com/hawkemediahttps://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/ About Our Guest Chad Willardson is the founder and CEO of Pacific Capital, a boutique fiduciary wealth advisory firm in Southern California serving entrepreneurs and families with $25M+ in investable assets. Chad began his career at Merrill Lynch, where he rose to become one of the top advisors in his region before leaving in 2011 to launch his own firm.At Pacific Capital, he and his team provide a true family office experience, from tax strategy and investment management to travel concierge and executive hiring support. He is also the author of Wealth Wired Differently, bridging the gap between entrepreneurs and financial professionals. Chad’s mission is simple: help entrepreneurs protect, grow, and enjoy their wealth while living life on their terms.Chad WillardsonPacific Capital WebsiteChad Willardson on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Chad Willardson, founder and CEO of Pacific Capital, to hear how he went from a young Merrill Lynch trainee during the tech bubble to building a premier boutique wealth management firm for entrepreneurs.Chad shares how growing up in Orange County shaped his values, why basketball and Michael Jordan fueled his competitive spirit, and what it really took to survive in a “shark tank” Wall Street training program where only three of 140 made it through. After nine years at Merrill Lynch  and a front-row seat to the chaos of the 2008 financial crisis, Chad walked away from a seven-figure salary, lucrative offers from Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley, and even a multimillion-dollar signing bonus. Instead, he chose freedom, authenticity, and the chance to start over from zero. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, we dive deep with Dr. Jason Halbert, a former FBI profiler, military operative, and the former Chief People Officer at Snap Inc. Dr. Halbert shares his incredible journey from the front lines of death row to elite special operations in Afghanistan, and his pivotal role in shaping the culture and growth of one of the world's most innovative companies.We discuss his upbringing in New Orleans and Alabama, the influence of his decorated father, and the drive that led him to a career in behavioral science, psychology, and leadership. Dr. Halbert also offers a candid look at his time working with serial killers, his experience in high-stakes military operations, and the vital lessons he learned about human behavior, leadership, and empathy.From interrogating terrorists to recruiting elite talent for Snap, Dr. Halbert reveals the power of curiosity and clear expectations in leadership. He emphasizes the importance of being transparent, setting high standards, and understanding the psychological complexities of those we work with. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a business leader, or someone interested in human behavior, Dr. Halbert’s insights will leave you thinking about leadership and life in a whole new way.In this episode:(00:00) Introduction to Hawke Talk podcast(00:31) Meet Dr. Jason Halbert(02:45) Growing up in New Orleans and Alabama(05:15) Early influences from his father’s legacy(09:47) The path to death row and understanding criminal behavior(15:23) Lessons from his time on death row and interrogating murderers(22:34) The transition to military service after 9/11(30:16) Navigating leadership roles in the military and corporate world(35:02) Joining Snap Inc. and shaping its culture(42:04) The power of curiosity in leadership and managing people(47:50) Key takeaways on hiring and setting clear expectations(51:28) Advice for leaders and aspiring professionalsHawke Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en https://hawkemedia.com/https://twitter.com/hawkemediahttps://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/About Our Guest Dr. Jason Halbert is a behavioral science expert and former military officer who has spent his career studying the complexities of human behavior in high-stress environments. After serving in the U.S. Army and working as a classified operative, Dr. Halbert transitioned to executive leadership roles, including his tenure as the Chief People Officer at Snap Inc. He has been a key figure in shaping corporate culture and talent strategies at some of the world’s most innovative companies. With a background in psychology and forensics, Dr. Halbert has a unique perspective on leadership, human interaction, and organizational behavior. Today, he continues to consult and advise on high-stakes human dynamics across various industries.Dr. Jason HalbertLinkedIn Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, we dive deep with Dr. Jason Halbert, a former FBI profiler, military operative, and the former Chief People Officer at Snap Inc. Dr. Halbert shares his incredible journey from the front lines of death row to elite special operations in Afghanistan, and his pivotal role in shaping the culture and growth of one of the world's most innovative companies.We discuss his upbringing in New Orleans and Alabama, the influence of his decorated father, and the drive that led him to a career in behavioral science, psychology, and leadership. Dr. Halbert also offers a candid look at his time working with serial killers, his experience in high-stakes military operations, and the vital lessons he learned about human behavior, leadership, and empathy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Orlando Jones, actor, comedian, writer, and creative powerhouse, to explore the winding journey that took him from Mobile, Alabama to some of Hollywood’s biggest stages. Before he became a breakout star on Mad TV, Orlando launched a successful ad agency at 18, dropped out of college, and got his first TV writing gig on A Different World thanks to mentors who saw his potential and a willingness to listen more than speak.Orlando opens up about learning the art of the writers’ room, co-creating the hit show Martin, and being mentored by legends like Gene Hackman and Lawrence Fishburne. We dive into his dramatic turn in films like Magnolia, his love of stage work, and his newest venture as CMO of Space Milk, a vegan performance nutrition brand. Through it all, Orlando shares why humility, curiosity, and connection, not clout, are what fuel lasting careers and meaningful storytelling.In this episode: (00:00) Introduction to Hawke Talk podcast(06:59) Starting a career in advertising(15:17) From writing to acting(25:24) Rise to fame with Mad TV(33:50) Transitioning to drama and high-profile projects(42:43) Mentorship and career evolution(46:16) Current ventures and future plans(51:07) Advice for aspiring professionalsHawke Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en https://hawkemedia.com/https://twitter.com/hawkemediahttps://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/ About Our Guest Orlando Jones is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer known for his dynamic presence on screen and behind the scenes. He launched his career as a teen entrepreneur, founding his own ad agency at 18 before breaking into television as a writer on A Different World and co-creator of Martin. Orlando became a household name as an original cast member on Mad TV, later starring in cult favorites like The Replacements, Double Take, and acclaimed series such as American Gods and Sleepy Hollow.In addition to his work in comedy and drama, Orlando is now the Chief Marketing Officer of Space Milk, a vegan performance nutrition brand, and continues to blend storytelling with innovation. Whether writing, acting, or producing, Orlando brings a rare mix of humor, intellect, and hustle to everything he does.Orlando JonesOrlando Jones WebsiteOrlando Jones on InstagramOrlando Jones on XOrlando Jones IMDbSpace Milk Website Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Orlando Jones, actor, comedian, writer, and creative powerhouse, to explore the winding journey that took him from Mobile, Alabama to some of Hollywood’s biggest stages. Before he became a breakout star on Mad TV, Orlando launched a successful ad agency at 18, dropped out of college, and got his first TV writing gig on A Different World thanks to mentors who saw his potential and a willingness to listen more than speak.Orlando opens up about learning the art of the writers’ room, co-creating the hit show Martin, and being mentored by legends like Gene Hackman and Lawrence Fishburne. We dive into his dramatic turn in films like Magnolia, his love of stage work, and his newest venture as CMO of Space Milk, a vegan performance nutrition brand. Through it all, Orlando shares why humility, curiosity, and connection, not clout, are what fuel lasting careers and meaningful storytelling. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Dean Karnazes—ultramarathoner, bestselling author, and a man who redefined what’s possible when you follow your passion. Before becoming a household name in endurance sports, Dean lived a typical corporate life, complete with a six-figure salary and a marketing job at GlaxoSmithKline. But on his 30th birthday, something shifted. After a night out, he impulsively ran 30 miles—despite not having run in 15 years. That unplanned run reignited his love for movement and sparked a journey that would take him to the world’s toughest races.Dean shares how he balanced his corporate job with grueling training, often sneaking out on lunch breaks for runs and prepping for ultramarathons through sleep deprivation and sauna sessions. He walks us through running 100-mile races, surviving 129°F in Death Valley, and eventually running 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days. His leap into full-time running came after the surprise success of his book Ultramarathon Man.Like what you hear? Subscribe to HawkeTalk for more stories from risk-takers, builders, and boundary-pushers who refuse to settle for average.In this episode: (00:00) Childhood memories of nonstop motion(02:00) Hiking Mount Whitney at age 11(12:45) The brutal 50-mile race and qualifying by accident(14:45) Western States 100 and early race training(27:00) The North Face, 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days(32:14) Dean’s advice: Stay curiousHawke Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en https://hawkemedia.com/https://twitter.com/hawkemediahttps://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/ About Our Guest Dean Karnazes is a Greek-American ultramarathon runner, bestselling author, and endurance athlete known for pushing the boundaries of human potential. Once a marketing executive, Dean left the boardroom to become one of the world’s most recognized ultrarunners. He’s completed some of the most extreme races on Earth, including 135 miles through Death Valley and 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 days. Today, he speaks globally, writes, and advocates for staying curious and uncomfortable.Dean KarnazesDean Karnazes WebsiteDean Karnazes on InstagramDean Karnazes on FacebookDean Karnazes on XBook: Ultramarathon Man: Confessions of an All-Night Runner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of HawkeTalk, I sit down with Dean Karnazes—ultramarathoner, bestselling author, and a man who redefined what’s possible when you follow your passion. Before becoming a household name in endurance sports, Dean lived a typical corporate life, complete with a six-figure salary and a marketing job at GlaxoSmithKline. But on his 30th birthday, something shifted. After a night out, he impulsively ran 30 miles—despite not having run in 15 years. That unplanned run reignited his love for movement and sparked a journey that would take him to the world’s toughest races. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He fainted in a hospital hallway. Quit law school after just two weeks. Got robbed—twice—on his way to high school. And for a while, he sold jewelry just to pay rent. So how did that guy end up helping Apple launch the Macintosh, becoming one of the most influential voices in tech, and helping Canva grow into a global design powerhouse?In this episode, I sit down with Guy Kawasaki, a man whose life defies the clean-cut success stories we often hear. Born and raised in Hawaii in a lower middle-class family, Guy’s journey took off not because of privilege—but because of grit, curiosity, and the occasional wild twist of fate. We dig into the pivotal moments that changed everything: the joyride in a Porsche 911 that sparked his ambition, the winding road through college majors and a short-lived attempt at law school, and the serendipitous friendship that opened the doors to Apple—no résumé polish required.We also talk about his career after Apple: from venture capital to writing bestselling books, and most recently, his work with Canva—a company that reignited his passion for democratizing access to powerful tools.Whether you’re just starting out or feel like you’ve taken a detour, this conversation is a powerful reminder that success isn’t linear—and the messiness might just be the point.In this episode: (00:00) Growth mindset & grit(12:41) Dropping out & MBA journey(15:09) Sales experience & Cutco lessons(20:58) Networking, relationships & “nepotism”(25:04) Working at Apple & Steve Jobs(39:29) Signal platform & secure communicationHawke Mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/company/hawkemedia/https://www.instagram.com/hawkemedia/?hl=en https://hawkemedia.com/https://twitter.com/hawkemediahttps://www.facebook.com/hawkemedia/ About Our Guest Guy Kawasaki is a marketing executive, author, speaker, and entrepreneur best known as Apple’s original Macintosh evangelist and Chief Evangelist at Canva. A psychology major turned tech visionary, Guy helped define how products get adopted and movements are built. He’s written 17 books including The Art of the Start, Enchantment, and Think Remarkable. Today, he hosts the podcast Remarkable People and continues to inspire creatives, marketers, and entrepreneurs around the globe.Guy KawasakiGuy Kawasaki's WebsiteGuy Kawasaki LinkedInGuy Kawasaki YouTubeRemarkable People Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

He fainted in a hospital hallway. Quit law school after just two weeks. Got robbed—twice—on his way to high school. And for a while, he sold jewelry just to pay rent. So how did that guy end up helping Apple launch the Macintosh, becoming one of the most influential voices in tech, and helping Canva grow into a global design powerhouse? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.