Podcast Summary: Living The Red Life – Episode: "Why ADD Might Be Your Greatest Superpower in Business"

Host: Rudy Mawer
Guest: Gene (Author and Entrepreneur)
Release Date: June 19, 2025

Introduction: Embracing ADD as a Business Superpower

In this compelling episode of Living The Red Life, host Rudy Mawer engages in an enlightening conversation with Gene, a multifaceted entrepreneur and best-selling author. The discussion centers around the transformative potential of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) in the entrepreneurial journey, challenging conventional perceptions and highlighting how ADD can serve as a formidable advantage in building and scaling businesses.

Gene’s Early Career and Initial Challenges

Gene begins by recounting his post-college experiences, which were markedly different from his aspirations. Despite holding a degree in psychology, he found himself working in a donut shop and later accepting a low-paying counseling position at a halfway house.

Gene [03:01]: "I'm very thankful to say it was almost immediately after I got my degree. I was working midnights, like I said, at a donut place, and I was making about 16 bucks an hour."

This period was marked by disillusionment, as Gene realized that his true calling lay elsewhere. His candid reflection reveals the struggles many face when their career paths deviate from their educational backgrounds.

Transition to Entrepreneurship and Building Multiple Businesses

Undeterred by early setbacks, Gene transitioned into the automotive industry in Michigan, leveraging his keen eye for detail—a trait possibly enhanced by his ADD. His proactive approach in identifying and solving problems earned him the trust of engineering teams, leading to the expansion of his network across multiple states.

Gene [06:24]: "From there you get a network of people and you fortunately run into people that are like you, that are like-minded and they want the best product out there for the customer."

Gene’s entrepreneurial spirit didn't stop at automotive; he ventured into the unique and innovative sector of flight training. His ability to integrate modern marketing strategies into traditionally old-fashioned businesses showcases his versatility and forward-thinking mindset.

ADD as a Catalyst for Success

A significant portion of the discussion delves into how ADD has been instrumental in Gene's success. Contrary to the common narrative that views ADD as a hindrance, Gene positions it as a superpower that enables constant problem-solving and multitasking.

Gene [09:28]: "Your mind tends to skip to what's important right now or, and what it'll do. It's an amazing feat that it'll actually keep things functioning."

Host Rudy and Gene explore the neuroscience behind ADD, emphasizing how it fosters a unique form of emotional intelligence and creativity that is invaluable in the business realm.

Rudy [12:20]: "We're essentially four-year-olds still walking around making decisions. Our emotional intelligence pretty much developed then... and that never goes away."

This perspective not only redefines ADD but also serves to inspire listeners who may perceive their own ADD not as a limitation but as a unique strength.

Harnessing the Power of the Internet for Business Growth

Gene shares critical insights into the importance of embracing the internet and digital marketing early on. Despite initial reservations, he recognized the unparalleled reach and efficiency that online platforms offer for business expansion.

Gene [18:10]: "The power of the Internet. Like, I just, I often feared away from it. I shied away because I didn't understand it."

He regrets not leveraging the internet sooner, noting how it could have accelerated the growth of his flight school and other ventures exponentially.

Gene [20:09]: "If you harness that power, I can't even imagine where that business would be now."

Gene underscores that the internet is not just a tool for modern businesses but a catalyst for scaling operations beyond traditional local boundaries.

Advice to Young Entrepreneurs

Towards the end of the episode, Gene offers heartfelt advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those who might struggle with ADD or other challenges.

Gene [16:23]: "Chase every and anything you can and chase it to the full extent. Throw your heart over the fence and your body will follow."

He emphasizes perseverance, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of one's passions, bolstered by the law of averages.

Gene [17:54]: "The law of averages works both ways. It's not a one-way street. Yeah, yeah, yeah, right. And that's the advice I would give anybody that's out there, that the law of averages works. If you work it, you have to make that decision to not give up and keep moving."

Key Takeaways and Conclusion

In this episode, Gene dismantles the stigmas surrounding ADD, illustrating how it can be a powerful asset in entrepreneurship. His journey from humble beginnings to building a diverse portfolio of successful businesses exemplifies resilience, innovative thinking, and the strategic use of personal strengths.

Notable Quotes:

• Gene [10:01]: "It's solving some problem."

• Rudy [12:20]: "Our emotional intelligence pretty much developed then... and that never goes away."

• Gene [16:23]: "Chase every and anything you can and chase it to the full extent."

Listeners are left with a profound understanding of how embracing one's unique neurological makeup can unlock unprecedented business potential and personal fulfillment.

Connect with Gene:

• Website: therealgene.com
• Email: therealgene01@gmail.com
• Books: Available on Amazon

Living The Red Life continues to inspire entrepreneurs and business owners to rethink their approaches, embrace their unique traits, and strive for lasting success. Tune in weekly for more insights from Rudy Mawer and his distinguished guests.