Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast Summary

Episode Title: Act Like You’ve Been There Before
Host: Scott Becker
Release Date: August 15, 2025

Introduction: Embracing Confidence in Challenging Situations

In this insightful episode of the Becker Private Equity & Business Podcast, host Scott Becker delves into the pivotal concept of acting like you've been there before. Through personal anecdotes from his experiences in golf and tennis, Scott unpacks the significance of confidence, poise, and mental composure in overcoming challenges both on and off the field.

The Golf Match: A Lesson in Poise Under Pressure

[00:00 - 04:30]
Scott begins by recounting a particularly nerve-wracking golf match he played shortly before recording the podcast. Despite being an inexperienced golfer compared to his opponent, Scott emphasizes the importance of maintaining composure.

• Initial Struggles: Scott admits, "I was playing awful for most of the match. I was so nervous, so tight at 30 cups of coffee in the morning" ([01:15]). His anxiety was palpable, stemming from both personal performance and the impending competition.

• Climbing Back: Despite early setbacks, Scott managed to claw back and take the lead, being up by two holes with three to go. However, his opponent, a far more seasoned and poised competitor, began to close the gap.

• Critical Moments: On the 16th hole, Scott describes the pressure: "I'm up by two holes with three holes to go... I screw up the hole, we tie the hole" ([03:00]). His struggles culminated in a double bogey on the 18th hole, turning a likely victory into a tied match that extended into a deciding hole.

• Final Outcome: In a dramatic finish, Scott managed a critical putt on the 20th hole, securing a win despite his earlier performance. Reflecting on the outcome, he notes, "I am so surprised to win" ([04:25]), highlighting the unexpected nature of his victory against a superior opponent.

Key Takeaway: Scott underscores the value of acting with confidence even when circumstances seem daunting. By maintaining a poised demeanor, he was able to overcome significant odds and secure a win.

The Tennis Match: Trusting in Experienced Leadership

[04:31 - 10:00]
Transitioning from golf, Scott shares a parallel experience from a competitive tennis match that further illustrates his central theme.

• Early Deficit: Scott describes being in a state championship doubles match where he and his partner were down by four sets: "We're down four on the first set... I am done" ([06:00]). Faced with imminent defeat, his initial reaction was to concede and leave the match.

• Partner’s Assurance: Contrary to his expectations, his partner, an accomplished player, exuded unwavering confidence. "Justin, the partner, says to me, you know, I've sized this up. We're going to win" ([07:15]). This declaration served as a catalyst for Scott to adopt a more positive and resilient mindset.

• Strategic Shift: Inspired by his partner’s confidence, Scott aligned his attitude accordingly, even though he personally doubted their chances: "The only way we're going to win is if I stay out of the way" ([08:30]). This shift in approach allowed them to collaborate more effectively, ultimately leading to a remarkable comeback victory.

Key Takeaway: Leadership and confidence can significantly influence outcomes. By supporting his partner's assured stance, Scott learned the importance of trusting in experienced guidance and maintaining composure under pressure.

Insights on Confidence and Poise

[10:01 - 14:45]
Drawing from his sports experiences, Scott synthesizes the lessons learned into broader insights applicable to business and personal growth.

• Athletic vs. General Confidence: Scott differentiates between athletic confidence and general confidence, acknowledging that while he possesses elements of the latter, it doesn't always manifest consistently: "Athletic confidence, in athletic greatness... the poise that some people have that I don't often have" ([12:10]).

• Acting as Experienced: The recurring theme is the power of acting as though one has the requisite experience and composure, even when facing unfamiliar or challenging situations. "You have to act in everything you're doing like you've been there before" ([11:30]).

• Impact on Performance: By embodying confidence, individuals can alter their performance and outcomes positively, as demonstrated in both the golf and tennis narratives.

Conclusion: Embracing the 'Been There Before' Mindset

In wrapping up the episode, Scott reiterates the central philosophy that acting like you've been there before can transform how one navigates challenges. Whether in sports, business, or personal endeavors, maintaining confidence and composure can lead to unexpected successes, even against the odds.

He reflects, "I wish more often I could act like I've been there before and now like such a rookie and such a novice but it is what it is. This is life" ([14:00]), acknowledging the ongoing journey toward embodying this mindset consistently.

Final Thoughts

Scott Becker's episode offers a compelling exploration of confidence and mental fortitude through relatable sports stories. By emphasizing the importance of acting as if one is already experienced, Scott provides listeners with actionable insights that can be applied to various aspects of life and business, reinforcing the notion that mindset plays a crucial role in achieving success.

Notable Quotes:

• "Act like you've been there before." ([00:45])
• "I was so nervous, so tight at 30 cups of coffee in the morning." ([01:20])
• "I'm up by two holes with three holes to go... I screw up the hole, we tie the hole." ([03:10])
• "We’re going to win." – Justin, Scott's tennis partner ([07:20])
• "You have to act in everything you're doing like you've been there before." ([11:35])
• "I wish more often I could act like I've been there before and now like such a rookie and such a novice but it is what it is. This is life." ([14:10])

Listen to the full episode here to gain deeper insights into mastering confidence and achieving success through the power of mindset.