The Fearless Experience

In this episode of The Fearless Experience, Brendan P. Keegan sits down with serial founder and investor Shelton Mercer III to explore what success looks like after the headlines fade. Mercer has built, scaled, and exited multiple venture-backed companies, including the 2024 acquisition of Autogen by Experian. He shares what it took to grind through years of uncertainty, make payroll, raise capital, and build strategic partnerships long before the exit made news. But this conversation goes beyond liquidity events. Mercer opens up about taking time to pause after success, reconnect with family, and refocus on purpose. He explains why he shifted from being a “man of action” to a leader obsessed with outcomes, and how he now convenes leaders across major cities to drive long-term economic and community impact. As an ordained minister and venture-backed founder, Mercer also discusses how faith, capital, integrity, and innovation intersect in his leadership philosophy. If you care about legacy, leadership, and building something that outlives you, this episode delivers practical wisdom on resilience, decision-making, and creating measurable impact that lasts for generations.

Brendan P. Keegan talks with Ryan Stana, Founder and CEO of RWS Global, about what it takes to build a world leader in live entertainment. Ryan shares how growing up in a small Pennsylvania town shaped his work ethic, why his grandmother’s advice grounded his leadership, and how scrappiness helped him win a six figure pitch competition at twenty one. Ryan explains how he scaled RWS through creativity, operational discipline, and a relentless focus on culture. He breaks down how his team delivers consistent execution across cruise lines, theme parks, global destinations, and large scale attractions like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. You hear how he evaluates acquisitions, why timeliness reveals more than a balance sheet, and how passion becomes a liability without structure. Ryan also discusses burnout, personal balance, and the “one lazy day” rule that keeps him sharp. His advice for entrepreneurs is direct. Set real goals, build a time and action plan, and stay proud of where you come from. A strong episode for founders, operators, and anyone building something ambitious.

Henrik Werdelin joins Brendan Keegan to break down the mindset behind entrepreneurship, creativity, and leading in a time shaped by AI. Henrik is the cofounder of Bark, the founder of multiple ventures, an investor, and the author of Me, My Customer, and AI. He shares how his early career at MTV shaped his approach, why you start with a customer rather than an idea, and how founders should think about problems worth solving. You hear Henrik explain • How to choose the customer you want to serve • Why the best ideas begin with the phrase “it s*cks that…” • How relationship capital shapes your edge in the AI era • What Bark focused on instead of launching more subscription boxes • Why AI lowers the barrier for millions of new entrepreneurs • How leaders should think about exploration, failure, and creativity • Why this moment is a turning point for anyone who wants to build something new If you work in leadership, innovation, or entrepreneurship, this conversation gives you clear takeaways you can use right away.

Luxury real estate entrepreneur and author John Gafford joins Brendan P. Keegan to share how he stopped drifting through life and took radical responsibility for his success. From his wild story of getting cast on The Apprentice to building Simply Vegas into one of Nevada’s top brokerages, Gafford explains why most people coast on autopilot—and how to break free. You’ll hear: • The lesson he learned from The Apprentice about value and risk. • Why “radical honesty” and clarity of goals are the foundation of growth. • How to build a one-page plan that keeps you focused and accountable. • The difference between drifting through life and living on purpose. • Why self-awareness and resilience matter more than credentials. If you’ve ever felt stuck or off-course, this episode shows how to regain control, lead with purpose, and create your own momentum.

Leadership starts with leading yourself. In this conversation, Brendan P. Keegan sits down with Margaret C. Andrews, leadership expert, Harvard instructor, and author of Manage Yourself to Lead Others. Margaret shares her journey from UC Berkeley to Deloitte, to teaching at Harvard and MIT, and building the MYLO Center. She reflects on the moment a blunt performance review forced her to confront her lack of self-awareness, and how that turning point led her to decades of research and teaching on self-understanding. Margaret explains her six guiding questions for developing stronger self-awareness, why behaviors matter more than intentions, and how leaders balance empathy with accountability. The discussion covers the evolution of leadership skills, generational differences in the workplace, the lessons parenting teaches about patience and individuality, and the risks leaders face when they stop learning. Margaret also offers practical steps any listener can take this week to strengthen self-awareness and become a more effective leader. If you want to lead others with clarity, compassion, and credibility, start here.

Join Brendan P. Keegan on The Fearless Experience for an inspiring conversation with Maarten Paes, starting goalkeeper for FC Dallas and the Indonesian National Team. Maarten opens up about his journey from backup to clutch performer—recalling his nerve-wracking professional debut at 19, where a last-minute substitution led to a shutout victory. He reveals how resilience shapes his leadership: embracing meditation and mental coaching to silence distractions, seizing unexpected opportunities (like his viral penalty-save debut for Indonesia), and honoring his heritage by representing his grandmother’s homeland in a heartfelt tribute just months before her passing. Discover the unique pressures of leading from the goal—where mistakes are magnified and composure is everything. Maarten shares how he energizes teams from the back, celebrates "suffering" in defense, and balances individual accolades with collective success. Through stories of mentors who grounded him after failures and his viral integration into Indonesian culture (complete with mustache-inspired song tributes!), he unpacks humility’s power—citing Ryan Holiday’s "Ego is the Enemy"—and his legacy goals: trophies, inspiring future generations, and being remembered as "a cool dude who did everything for his craft." A masterclass in mental toughness and purposeful leadership.

From Hockey to Private Equity: Andrew Braithwaite’s Playbook for Fearless Leadership & Long-Term Success Brendan P. Keegan sits down with Andrew Braithwaite, Managing Director at Cynosure Group, to unpack his remarkable journey from NHL prospect to influential private equity leader. Andrew shares candid insights on navigating a non-traditional path, beginning at a non-target school and leveraging relentless networking to break into investment banking at Barclays Capital. Discover how Andrew transitioned into private equity, emphasizing long-term partnerships over transactional deals, and learn the core values—alignment, transparency, and integrity—that drive Cynosure’s mission to “help good people do great things.” He opens up about overcoming setbacks, the power of mentorship, and why sleep and perseverance are critical when facing career challenges.Aspiring finance professionals will gain actionable advice on breaking into competitive industries, while founders and entrepreneurs will appreciate Andrew’s philosophy on building lasting, trust-driven partnerships. Whether discussing his hockey days or the art of business-building, Andrew’s story is a masterclass in resilience, strategic networking, and leading with purpose. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends grit, wisdom, and a playbook for fearless leadership. Listen now on brendanpkeegan.com and join the fearless journey.

In this inspiring episode of The Fearless Experience, Brendan P. Keegan speaks with Dr. David Rosenberg, one of the world’s leading facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons—and an acclaimed abstract artist. Dr. Rosenberg shares the personal story that sparked his passion for medicine, the long and winding road of surgical training, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that propelled him to the top of his field. But Dr. Rosenberg’s talents don’t stop at the operating table. He opens up about his creative process as a large-format painter, his love of fishing, and his artistic and entrepreneurial partnership with his wife, singer-songwriter JELA. From building a reputation from scratch to mentoring the next generation of surgeons, Dr. Rosenberg reveals what it means to blend science, art, and leadership with passion and authenticity. This episode is packed with wisdom for aspiring doctors, entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone striving to live—and lead—fearlessly.

Join Brendan P. Keegan on The Fearless Experience as he sits down with Adam Norris—serial entrepreneur, founder of Pure Electric (one of the world’s fastest-growing e-scooter brands), and visionary investor behind Horatio Investments. In this candid conversation, Adam shares his journey from growing up on a rural farm with undiagnosed dyslexia to becoming a titan of industry, driven by relentless curiosity and a zero-distraction mindset. He also opens up about raising his son, Formula 1 superstar Lando Norris, revealing how instilling values, kindness, and resilience paved the way for Lando’s rise to the top of the racing world. From cold-calling sales jobs to IPOing a billion-dollar company, Adam’s story is a masterclass in turning adversity into advantage. Learn why he believes true success lies in solving global problems, building "mass premium" brands, and staying laser-focused on excellence—even if it takes 30 years. Perfect for entrepreneurs, parents, and anyone chasing greatness, this episode is packed with actionable insights on leadership, legacy, and the power of relentless pursuit. Visit brendanpkeegan.com for more fearless conversations.

Brendan P. Keegan chats with Eric Price, Managing Director and Head of US Capital Markets at CIBC, for a candid and inspiring conversation about resilience, networking, and leadership in the financial services industry. Eric shares his unconventional journey into finance, from receiving his first stock certificate as a Bar Mitzvah gift to cold-calling his way into Wall Street with relentless determination. He opens up about the early rejections, the hustle of sending hundreds of resumes, and the pivotal moment that landed him his first job—thanks to an unexpected connection at a New York City novelty store. The discussion dives into Eric’s leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of leading by example, fostering genuine relationships, and the power of networking—both in business and beyond. With an eclectic circle of friends ranging from pro athletes to Hollywood stars, Eric reveals how authenticity and a passion for connecting people have shaped his career and personal life. You will also hear about Eric’s charitable work, including CIBC’s Miracle Day, where he brings together celebrities and financial leaders to raise millions for children’s charities. Wrapping up with actionable advice for aspiring finance professionals, Eric stresses the value of having a market view, embracing failure, and staying curious. Key Takeaways: • How resilience and persistence can break down even the toughest barriers. • Why networking isn’t just about contacts—it’s about building meaningful relationships. • The surprising link between a Wall Street career and an early job in "retail." • How giving back can open doors and create unexpected opportunities. • Essential advice for young professionals: Have a view, defend it, and learn from being wrong. Watch or listen now and subscribe to The Fearless Experience for more candid conversations with leaders who redefine success. Follow Brendan P. Keegan: brendanpkeegan.com

In this episode of The Fearless Experience, Brendan P. Keegan sits down with George Mattson, CEO of Wheels Up, a leading global private aviation provider. With over 25 years of leadership experience—from IBM and Goldman Sachs to his current role—George shares invaluable insights on career pivots, fearless leadership, and the power of continuous learning. George reflects on his unconventional journey, starting as an electrical engineering major at Duke University, transitioning from sales at IBM to investment banking at Goldman Sachs, and ultimately stepping into the CEO role at Wheels Up. He discusses how his early experiences—moving across six schools worldwide and embracing change—shaped his adaptability and problem-solving mindset. George’s fearless approach—running toward challenges, embracing uncertainty, and broadening his skills—offers a masterclass for emerging and seasoned leaders alike. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about owning your career, writing new chapters, and leading with authenticity.Listen now to learn how to live and lead fearlessly!

In this episode of The Fearless Experience, Brendan P. Keegan welcomes Richard Dean, CEO and Team Principal of United Autosports, to explore the intersection of motorsport, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Richard shares his journey from growing up at racetracks as the son of a racing enthusiast to becoming a 24 Hours of Le Mans-winning driver and co-founding a globally successful motorsport team with childhood friend Zak Brown (CEO of McLaren Racing). Richard opens up about the unglamorous realities of building a business—like starting with a red wine-fueled brainstorm instead of a polished business plan—and the relentless drive required to stay competitive in endurance racing. He delves into the challenges of balancing on-track performance with off-track business decisions, the art of motivating a team through setbacks, and the importance of surrounding yourself with mentors and grounded voices (like his 81-year-old colleague who reminds him, "We’re not digging coal for a living!”). Key Takeaways Include: • Embracing the entrepreneurial journey—why flexibility matters more than a perfect plan. • Leading under pressure—how to navigate 24-hour races (and 24/7 business demands). • Work-life balance—the sacrifices and rewards of a career in motorsport. • Advice for aspiring professionals—why persistence and problem-solving trump pedigree. Whether you’re a racing fan, an entrepreneur, or someone seeking inspiration to turn passion into a career, Richard’s story is a masterclass in fearless leadership. Watch or listen now and subscribe to The Fearless Experience for more candid conversations with leaders who redefine success. Follow Brendan P. Keegan: brendanpkeegan.com

In this episode of Fearless Leadership, Brendan is joined by British racing phenom Phil Hanson, who, at just 24 years old, has already etched his name into the history books by becoming the youngest British driver to ever win the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans race. Despite his youth, Philip is a veteran of over 50 professional races and quickly established himself as one of endurance racing's brightest talents when he took the LMP2 class victory at Le Mans 2020 with United Autosports. He shares his inspirational journey from go-karting to sports cars, the challenges of transitioning to endurance events like Le Mans, and provides a behind-the-scenes look at his life-changing debut at this grueling race. Through captivating storytelling, Philip offers insights into developing the focus, resilience, and fearlessness required to compete at motorsport's highest level and push past self-doubt to achieve legendary status at the peak of his daring profession.

This week's Fearless Leader is Marc Polymeropoulos, one of the most decorated CIA officers of the modern era. With a 26-year career in public service, Marc shares leadership lessons gleaned from managing high-stakes crises around the world. Marc takes us behind the curtain of the secretive CIA, from tracking Osama bin Laden in the 1990s to thwarting terrorist attacks today. He recounts the shocking day in 2009 when seven CIA officers were killed in a suicide bombing in Afghanistan and his face-to-face interview with the bomber. Marc translates crisis management skills from the CIA to the civilian world, advising listeners on leading under pressure. Whether averting global catastrophes or everyday emergencies, Marc demonstrates how clarity, decisiveness, and relying on your core team are key to navigating any storm and becoming the Fearless Leader you're destined to be. About Marc Polymeropoulos: Marc served 26 years in the CIA before retiring from the Senior Intelligence Service in June 2019. His positions included field and headquarters operational assignments covering the Middle East, Europe, Eurasia and CounterTerrorism. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Intelligence Medal, the Intelligence Commendation Medal, and the Intelligence Medal of Merit.

This week on Fearless Leadership, Brendan is joined by elite performance experts Dr. Eric Potterat and Alan Eagle, co-authors of the new book Learned Excellence: Mental Disciplines for Leading and Winning from the World’s Top Performers. Drawing on their decades of experience training top business executives, athletes, and Special Forces operators, Eric and Alan reveal the cognitive skills and mental frameworks that allow people to optimize performance despite chaos and uncertainty. They share research-backed techniques to control attention, emotion, and mental chatter while discussing how to create winning mindsets, build motivational metaskills, and unlock flow states through the deliberate practice of microskills. Listen in as Eric and Alan pull back the curtain on training Navy SEALs in mental toughness and designing peak performance regimes for MLB stars. You’ll discover how shifting one’s consciousness and controlling physiology can transform outcomes when it matters most. Tune in for actionable takeaways you can apply immediately to become a more poised, resilient, and fulfilled leader capable of navigating life’s turbulence with excellence. About Eric Potterat: Eric is a clinical and performance psychologist and a leading expert in individual and organizational performance optimization. Eric retired as a commander from the US Navy after twenty years of service, during which he helped create the mental toughness curriculum used during Navy SEALs BUD/S training. Eric spent several years as the director of specialized performance for the Los Angeles Dodgers and has also worked with Red Bull athletes, the US Women’s national soccer team, the Miami Heat, and numerous Olympic athletes, first responders, business leaders, and NASA astronauts. About Alan Eagle: Alan is an author and executive communications consultant, helping leaders and companies shape and tell their stories. He spent 16 years at Google, partnering with executives to communicate the company’s story to clients, partners, employees, and the public. He is the co-author of the books How Google Works and Trillion Dollar Coach, and the author, all by himself, of seven letters-to-the-editor published in Sports Illustrated. He has never won the New Yorker Caption Contest.

Join us this week on Fearless Leadership as we welcome the incredible Sasha DiGiulian. At just 30 years old, Sasha has cemented herself as the most accomplished female rock climber in the world. She's traveled to over 50 countries and completed over 30 first ascents, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the sport. Beyond her jaw-dropping climbs, Sasha is also a phenomenal role model. She's brought rock climbing into the mainstream and inspired countless young women to embrace the outdoors. As a staunch advocate for equality, she's working to increase access, pay and visibility for female athletes across all sports. On this week's show, we'll dive into Sasha's record-breaking career, her perspective on being a woman in a male-dominated sport, and her advice for young people looking to follow their dreams. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation with a true fearless leader!

Leaping into leadership is no easy feat. It requires ambition, skill, and the courage to take risks. This week on Fearless Leadership, Brendan P. Keegan sits down with Adam Bryant, author of The Leap to Leader and senior managing director at The ExCo Group. With decades of experience interviewing top executives, Bryant has unique insights into what it takes to make the transition from manager to leader. He shares key lessons learned from CEOs who successfully took the leap, as well as common pitfalls to avoid. You’ll hear Bryant’s advice on developing emotional intelligence, earning credibility, and gaining influence. He also discusses how to create a personal board of directors, solicit honest feedback, and find strong mentors. Any manager with their sights set on leadership will benefit from Bryant’s wisdom and real-world guidance. Tune in for a lively and enlightening conversation about the mindsets, skills, and strategies required to become an impactful leader.

Are you ready to rev up your leadership skills? This week Brendan has the honor of speaking with Emma Gilmour, a true trailblazer, and an inspirational figure in the world of motorsport. Emma is one of the world’s top female rally drivers, the first-ever female driver to be signed by McLaren Racing, and the first Kiwi to get a full season drive in the offroad race series, Extreme E. She’s also an entrepreneur and owner of a Suzuki dealership in New Zealand. They dive into Emma’s amazing journey from equestrian to rally driver, how she overcame challenges and fears along the way, and what it means to be part of the NEOM McLaren Extreme E Team. We also learn about her passion for mentorship, her advice for young drivers, and her vision for the future of motorsport. Through her remarkable achievements, Emma inspires us all to chase our dreams relentlessly, defy expectations, and lead fearlessly.

Brendan welcomes Fearless Leader, Alan Stein, Jr. to the podcast. Alan is a former basketball coach who has learned from and trained some of the most elite athletes on the planet. He is now a renowned speaker and author who teaches leaders and teams how to elevate their game in business and life. He is the founder of Raise Your Game, a company that offers keynote speeches, workshops, and online courses on high-performance secrets from the best of the best. He is also the author of two books, Raise Your Game and Sustain Your Game, which are packed with practical insights and strategies to help you achieve your goals. Alan shares how he made the jump from the hardwood to the stage, his inspiring encounter with the legendary Kobe Bryant, and the five fundamentals for raising leadership performance.

On the latest episode of Fearless Leadership, Brendan is joined by a truly inspiring guest who has revolutionized the way we think about leadership and negotiation. Ellen Leikind, the founder of PokerDivas, has a unique approach to teaching these critical skills that draw upon the fundamental principles and strategies of poker. Ellen's work has had a tremendous impact on organizations across a wide range of industries, from finance to healthcare. Her clients include some of the biggest names in business, such as PricewaterhouseCoopers, Pfizer, and Chevron. Through her innovative approach, Ellen has helped countless individuals become better leaders and negotiators. In addition to her work with PokerDivas, Ellen is also the author of PokerWoman: How to Win at Love, Life, and Business using the Principles of Poker. Her book has received rave reviews and has become a must-read for anyone looking to improve their leadership and negotiation skills. Join us as we dive deep into Ellen's unique approach to leadership and negotiation, and learn how you too can become a fearless leader. Don't miss this incredible episode of Fearless Leadership with Brendan P. Keegan!