Podcast
The Futur with Chris Do
Hosted by The Futur · EN
The Futur Podcast is a show that explores the interesting overlap between design, marketing, and business. Our host (and CEO of The Futur), Chris Do, hold candid conversations with inspirational people from the worlds of design, technology, marketing, business, philosophy and personal development. These conversations go deep. With the aim of understanding who these incredible people are, what drives them to do what they do, and what can we--the listener--learn from it all. Visit thefutur.com/podcast for show notes and additional information from each episode.
157episodes
Episodes
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342 - Winning Requires More Than Just Mindset - With Tom Bilyeu (Part 2)
Apr 23, 202501:02:12Summary readyWelcome to part two of my conversation with Tom Bilyeu! If you haven’t heard part one yet, go check it out—we covered the realities of making millions, the impact on relationships, and why money doesn’t change who you are at your core. In this episode, we dive deeper into why so many talented people never succeed. Tom breaks down the mindset traps that keep people stuck and the hard truth about what it actually takes to win in business. We debate the role of impact, money, and personal growth, and Tom shares why he believes mindset alone isn’t enough—execution, skill acquisition, and timing matter just as much. He also opens up about his emotional journey trying to change lives at scale and why he’s now focused on shaping the next generation through storytelling and entertainment. If you're looking for real, unfiltered insights on success, this is a must-listen.Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(00:17) - Why talented people stay stuck(01:12) - Money as a scorecard for impact(03:00) - The myth of "good people" winning in business(04:50) - The hard truth about entrepreneurship(07:17) - Mindset vs. skill acquisition(10:45) - Business success is about timing(14:20) - The brutal emotional journey of trying to help people(20:10) - Why Tom gave up on helping adults(25:46) - Teaching personal growth through entertainment(32:10) - The pursuit of truth vs. utility(40:37) - How Tom rewired his mindset for success(49:16) - The moment that changed Tom’s self-esteem forever(52:30) - Fun rapid-fire questions with TomCheck out today's guest, Tom Bilyeu:Tom's Website: https://impacttheory.com/Tom's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeuTom's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomBilyeuCheck out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
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341 - How I Raised My Kids for Success - With Chris Do
Apr 19, 202501:02:00Summary readyIn this episode, I share my personal philosophy on parenting and how I raised my two sons to be independent, creative, and entrepreneurial. I reflect on my upbringing as a first-generation immigrant, the parenting styles I observed, and how I deliberately avoided helicopter parenting to foster self-sufficiency in my children.I discuss the importance of setting firm boundaries while allowing freedom, why letting kids fail is crucial to their development, and how I instilled values of respect, decision-making, and responsibility. I also explore the long-term impact of parenting styles, how wealth and privilege affect children's behavior, and the consequences of overprotective parenting. If you're a parent, thinking about becoming one, or reflecting on your own upbringing, this episode offers valuable insights into raising resilient and capable kids.Timestamps:(00:00) – Why I’m sharing my parenting philosophy & my sons’ success stories(02:51) – The difference between helicopter parenting and my laissez-faire approach(06:24) – How my own upbringing shaped my parenting style(10:42) – The two firm rules I set for my kids: Respect and Zero Tolerance for Violence(16:02) – How affluent parents unintentionally weaken their children(21:30) – The impact of decision-making skills on independence(27:50) – The psychological effects of over-parenting and why kids struggle with confidence(33:48) – Teaching kids financial responsibility and why my youngest filed taxes at 18(40:46) – The illusion of choice: A strategy I learned from a family therapist(47:16) – How enforcing boundaries and respect prepares kids for the real world(53:12) – Breaking generational trauma and the dangers of repeating parenting mistakes(58:40) – Final thoughts: How to raise kids who are capable, not coddledCheck out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
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340 - The Truth About Billion-Dollar Success - With Tom Bilyeu (Part 1)
Apr 16, 202500:39:40Summary readyIn this episode, I sit down with entrepreneur and impact-driven business leader Tom Bilyeu to discuss the journey from startup to billion-dollar exit and the deeper personal costs of ambition. Tom opens up about the moment he saw life-changing wealth hit his bank account, only to realize that money doesn’t solve internal struggles. We dive into his relationship with his wife, Lisa, and how they navigate the balance between high-performance entrepreneurship and maintaining a strong marriage. Tom shares how he defines success, why skill acquisition is the key to freedom, and how he maintains his relentless drive while keeping his personal life intact. This conversation goes beyond business strategies—it’s about mindset, relationships, and personal growth. If you've ever wondered what happens after financial success or how to maintain a healthy marriage while chasing big dreams, this episode is for you.Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(00:22) - Chris Visits Tom’s Studio(01:04) - Billion-Dollar Exit: The Real Story(02:33) - The Moment Money Hits Your Account(03:47) - Money as a Tool vs. Self-Worth(07:12) - The Thrill of the Chase(08:32) - The Personal Cost of Success(13:15) - Marriage, Relationships & Entrepreneurship(17:03) - Prioritizing Marriage While Pursuing Success(22:42) - The Balance Between Work & Love(27:04) - The Importance of Understanding Your Partner(31:55) - Making Relationships Work Long-Term(38:08) - Chris & Tom Reflect on Ambition & Drive(38:38) - Part Two Teaser: Creative EntrepreneurshipCheck out today's guest, Tom Bilyeu:Tom's Website: https://impacttheory.com/Tom's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeuTom's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomBilyeuCheck out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
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339 - The Truth About Niching Down - With Chris Do
Apr 9, 202500:07:47Summary readyIn this episode, I challenge the common belief that you need to niche down to succeed. Many creatives look at artists like Post Malone, who seamlessly transitions across genres, and assume they can do the same. But the reality is, these people mastered one thing before expanding. I discuss why copying someone’s success without understanding their journey is a mistake and why intentional practice and depth of knowledge are key. We explore the concept of the T-shaped skill set, the risks of diversifying too soon, and how social media growth favors consistency. If you’ve ever struggled with whether to specialize or go broad, this episode is for you.Timestamps:(00:00) - The problem with copying success(00:39) - Post Malone’s career evolution(02:12) - Why success leaves clues(03:35) - Finding your starting point(04:17) - The power of deep expertise(05:00) - Social media and consistency(06:15) - The restaurant analogy for niching(07:01) - Outro and call to actionCheck out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
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338 - Build, Test, Scale, Repeat - With Hamlet Azarian
Apr 5, 202500:55:50Summary readyIn this episode, I’m joined by Hamlet Azarian, a seasoned marketing executive with over 20 years of experience in scaling early-stage startups from ideation to success. Hamlet breaks down his data-driven approach to marketing, emphasizing the importance of multivariate testing, customer personas, and psychographics to deeply understand user needs. We discuss actionable strategies, such as rapid testing of ideas through prototypes and landing pages, and leveraging tools like Hotjar and CallRail to optimize customer engagement. Hamlet also highlights the power of focusing on progress over perfection and shares insights from his journey of building an agency with a mission to educate and empower future marketers. Whether you’re a creative professional, an entrepreneur, or simply curious about growth marketing, this episode is packed with insights to help you take your ideas to the next level.Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction to Hamlet Azarian(01:30) - Early-stage startup dynamics(03:00) - Example: Scaling Camino Financial(08:00) - Multivariate testing and audience targeting(15:00) - Understanding customer personas and psychographics(25:00) - Building marketing strategies through interviews(32:50) - Optimizing landing pages and pre-launch campaigns(38:20) - Growth mindset and startup culture(50:30) - Tools and tech stack for data-driven marketing(54:00) - Closing thoughts and action stepsCheck out today's guest, Hamlet Azarian:Hamlet's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hamletazarianAzarian Growth Agency's Website: https://azariangrowthagency.com/Hamlet's Website: https://hamletazarian.com/Check out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
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337 - Empathy in Business: Nice or Necessary? - With Maria Ross
Apr 2, 202501:07:57Summary readyIn this episode, I sit down with Maria Ross, an author, speaker, and empathy advocate, to explore the power of empathy in leadership, branding, and creative work. We unpack the two types of empathy—cognitive and affective—and how understanding them can transform relationships, client interactions, and even pricing strategies. Maria shares insights from her books, The Empathy Edge and The Empathy Dilemma, addressing misconceptions around empathy in business. We discuss how ego and insecurity can block empathy, the dangers of "empathy hijacking," and the balance between compassion and high performance. Whether you're a leader, entrepreneur, or creative professional, this episode is packed with practical strategies to integrate empathy into your work without burning out.Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction to Maria Ross(00:33) - Maria’s background in branding and empathy advocacy(01:49) - Why empathy matters for small teams and solopreneurs(02:14) - The business case for empathy in leadership(07:13) - Why creatives struggle with empathy(09:03) - The two types of empathy: cognitive vs. affective(13:33) - Ego and insecurity as empathy blockers(20:04) - The problem with "radical honesty" and weaponized empathy(29:07) - How to respond empathetically without "hijacking" the conversation(36:41) - The power of curiosity in empathy(40:15) - Empathy in pricing: charging based on client impact(50:13) - Leadership challenges: balancing empathy and performance(57:22) - How to build an empathetic workplace culture(59:10) - Where to find Maria and her booksCheck out today's guest, Maria Ross:Maria's book website: https://theempathydilemma.com/Maria's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariajrossMaria's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redslicemariaCheck out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
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336 - Risk, Failure & Growth: The Truth About Entrepreneurship - With Michael & Kass Lazerow
Mar 26, 202501:22:24Summary readyIn this episode, I sit down with Michael and Kass Lazerow—serial entrepreneurs, business partners, and husband-and-wife duo—to discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, leadership, and working together as a couple. We dive into their journey from launching Golf.com to selling Buddy Media to Salesforce for $745M. Michael shares his instinctive, visionary approach to business, while Kass offers sharp operational expertise, revealing the balance that has fueled their success. We talk about the myths of entrepreneurship, the importance of embracing failure, and how firing people with kindness can change lives. The conversation takes a candid turn as we explore what it means to navigate business, marriage, and parenting while staying aligned. If you've ever struggled with leadership, scaling a business, or balancing work and relationships, this episode is full of valuable insights and honest reflections.Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction (05:10) - Michael & Kass’s journey from Golf.com to Buddy Media (11:45) - The biggest myths about entrepreneurship (18:30) - Learning to embrace fear and uncertainty in business (25:55) - How Kass approaches firing people with kindness (32:40) - Navigating marriage and business: The challenges and rewards (39:15) - The importance of trusting your gut vs. making data-driven decisions (45:50) - How social media has changed entrepreneurship (52:30) - The right way to pivot when a business idea isn’t working (59:05) - Leadership lessons: Why transparency matters (1:05:40) - The mental load of running a business and parenting (1:12:15) - Shoveling Sh*t: A sneak peek at Michael & Kass’s new book Check out today's guests, Michael and Kass Lazerow:Mike and Kass' Website: https://www.kassandmike.com/Mike and Kass' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kassandmike/Mike and Kass' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kassandmike/Shoveling Sh*t Website: https://shovelingshit.com/Check out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
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335 - Vulnerability Meets Growth Strategies - With Eric Siu
Mar 22, 202501:03:49Summary readyIn this engaging crossover episode, I join forces with Eric Siu’s Leveling Up podcast for a thought-provoking conversation. Together, we explore the art and strategy behind building personal brands and creating authentic connections in the digital age. We dive into the intricacies of running masterminds, including their pros, cons, and the lessons learned. Eric and I discuss the value of storytelling, self-awareness, and vulnerability in establishing a meaningful online presence. Whether you're considering launching a mastermind, enhancing your personal brand, or looking to deepen your connections with your audience, this episode delivers a mix of actionable advice and honest reflections.Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction and episode setup(02:00) - Building authentic personal brands(06:30) - Vulnerability and Storytelling online(11:15) - The power of masterminds(16:50) - Structuring masterminds effectively(21:30) - Balancing personal growth with branding(27:00) - Social media strategies and engagement tips(35:20) - Long-term brand-building insights(42:00) - Overcoming criticism and self-doubt(48:15) - Closing thoughts on authenticityCheck out today's guest, Eric Siu:Eric's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericosiuEric's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericosiuSingle Grain's Website: https://www.singlegrain.com/Check out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
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334 - Unlocking Your Storytelling Superpower - With Andrea Sampson
Mar 19, 202501:06:46Summary readyIn this episode, I sit down with Andrea Sampson, a seasoned strategist turned storytelling coach, to explore the power of storytelling in branding, leadership, and public speaking. Andrea shares her journey from the high-pressure world of advertising to coaching TED speakers and thought leaders. We discuss the essence of compelling storytelling, how personal experiences shape narratives, and how anyone can harness their unique voice to captivate an audience. Andrea also breaks down the psychology behind storytelling, the role of emotional connection, and why differentiation is key in personal branding. Whether you're a creative professional, a speaker, or an entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with insights to help you refine your messaging and make a lasting impact.Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction (00:39) - Chris Do on storytelling & self-consciousness (01:11) - Andrea’s career shift from advertising to TED coaching (05:17) - What does a strategist do in advertising? (13:11) - Inside an advertising pitch: E-Trade campaign (19:50) - What clients look for in an ad agency (25:11) - Andrea’s soul-searching moment at 50 (31:44) - Discovering TEDx and becoming a speaker coach (36:12) - Coaching scientists & translating complex ideas (44:06) - The science of storytelling & emotional engagement (50:01) - Personal branding: Awareness, authority, and differentiation (57:36) - How storytelling makes ideas memorable (1:00:23) - What stories people should tell moreCheck out today's guest, Andrea Sampson:Andrea's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/acsampsonAndrea's Website: https://talkboutique.com/Andrea's Instagram: https://instagram.com/thisisandreasampsonCheck out The Futur:Website: https://www.thefutur.com/Courses: https://www.thefutur.com/shopLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/Podcasts: https://thefutur.com/podcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuturishere/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theFuturisHere/Twitter: https://x.com/thefuturishereTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefuturishereYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/thefuturishereCheck out Chris Do:Website: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechrisdo/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BizOfDesignInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thechrisdo/Twitter:https://x.com/thechrisdoTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@thechrisdoThreads:https://www.threads.net/@thechrisdoZaap: https://zaap.bio/thechrisdoClubhouse:https://www.clubhouse.com/@thechrisdoBehance: https://www.behance.net/chrisdo
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333 - Leader or Follower? - With Chris Do
Mar 12, 202500:08:38Summary readyIn this solo episode, Chris Do examines the dynamics of leadership and followership, exploring how clearly defined roles can create healthier relationships in teams, families, and businesses. Chris shares his perspective on when to lead, when to follow, and why trying to merge the two often results in frustration. Using relatable stories, he explains how leaders can empower others by giving them full autonomy while maintaining respect for the roles people play. This thought-provoking episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to navigate complex relationships with more clarity and empathy.Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction to solo episodes(00:38) Misconceptions about leadership and listening(01:17) The balance between leading and following(02:23) The dangers of blurred roles(03:00) The black sheep’s role in families and teams(04:50) Institutional knowledge and preserving history(05:34) Trusting the leader and letting go(06:50) The frustration of mixed instructions(07:22) Summary: Defining and sharing rolesCheck out The Futur:➤ Website | Courses | LinkedIn | Podcasts➤ Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | TikTok | YouTubeCheck out Chris Do:➤ Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter➤ TikTok | Threads | Zaap | Clubhouse | Behance
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