Between the Builds: How Experiences Shape the Path to Leadership

Episode Summary:

In this Between the Builds reflection, host Chris Fay looks back on his conversation with Maor Farid, founder and CEO of Leo AI, and unpacks a powerful theme: the way our lived experiences, both triumphs and setbacks, shape who we are as leaders and builders. From Maor’s time in the Israeli military and at MIT to Chris’s own story of rejection from the University of Georgia leading to unexpected opportunities, this episode explores how the moments we often overlook or even resist can become the very foundation of our purpose, leadership style, and future success.

Whether it’s starting a company, leading a team, or making an impact in your community, Chris challenges us to recognize the gravity of our experiences and to take ownership of the ones we create moving forward.

Key Takeaways:

• Experiences, both positive and negative, are often the unseen drivers of leadership and innovation.
• The average age of entrepreneurs is in their early 40s; experience provides the clarity to identify real problems and build meaningful solutions.
• Negative experiences can become catalysts for long-term growth and perspective.
• We can proactively shape our future by curating the experiences we pursue today.
• Don’t discount your own story. It’s the blueprint for where you’re headed.

Built With Purpose shares thoughtful conversations with the people who design, build, and improve the world around us.

Hosted by Chris Fay, the show blends experience from commercial construction and tech leadership to explore how values, systems, and steady execution create enduring companies.

Each week, you’ll hear:

• Builder Conversations: Warm, in-depth interviews with founders, operators, and craft leaders across construction, architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and built-world tech.

• Field Notes: Short, practical takeaways on leadership, culture, brand, sales, and operational excellence—ideas you can put to work on Monday.

If you care about building teams and businesses that last—without losing sight of purpose—this podcast is for you.
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