All Episodes

Our host, Ramon Estrada, delves into the complexities and repetitions that often come with launching and leading a company in this instructive episode of our podcast, tailored for founder CEOs. Drawing on his extensive experience as an executive coach, he explores the metaphorical journey of finding one's "home" in the business world, likening the process to using GPS to navigate life's aims and ambitions. Through the inspiring story "On the Tavern" by Rumi, he highlights the familiar feeling of wandering aimlessly and the necessity of knowing one's destination. The discussion extends to practical advice on aligning daily operations with core values, the importance of intentional actions, and embracing the warrior's path for personal and professional fulfillment. He shares personal anecdotes and wisdom from the Bhagavad Gita, urging listeners to consider their actions as foundational steps towards their ultimate goals. He concludes with thought-provoking insights from mentor Jerry Colonna on self-awareness in leadership. Tune in to redefine your journey and embrace your role as a CEO and a visionary leader shaping the future.Don't forget to subscribe to "business is art" for more episodes that blend the art of business with personal growth, innovation, and the pursuit of impact.

In this thought-provoking episode, we dive deep into the concept of nurturing and preserving creative energy within the hectic life of a founder CEO. Drawing parallels between the diligent responsibilities of historical monarchs and modern business leaders, we explore how maintaining your "kingdom" — your company — in top condition is essential for fostering creativity. With engaging references to poetry and mystical traditions, we unpack the metaphor of content and container. Our host challenges founder CEOs to identify business leaks that drain creative energies, drawing lessons from strategy and soul. Join us as we discuss practical steps to secure your entrepreneurial realm, ensuring it's a fertile ground for innovation and artistic pursuits. By the end of this episode, you will have the insights to turn everyday business challenges into opportunities for creative growth.Don't forget to subscribe to "business is art" for more episodes that blend the art of business with personal growth, innovation, and the pursuit of impact.

In this episode, we explore the essence of creativity and its profound impact on personal and professional growth. Our journey begins with a simple analogy comparing the need for fresh water to the thirst for fresh creative ideas, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the nature of creativity. We challenge the common misconception that creativity is a sporadic, uncontrollable force, proposing instead that it's a vibrant energy awaiting cultivation.This episode features insights from renowned executive coach Jerry Colona and creativity guru Julia Cameron. It uncovers the critical components of creativity: the container and the content. We delve into Cameron's transformative practices from "The Artist's Way," including morning journaling, artist dates, and the therapeutic act of walking, to unveil how these activities can rejuvenate our creative spirit. Additionally, we share personal anecdotes and success stories from coaching clients, illustrating the tangible benefits of engaging with our creative selves.Whether you're a founder CEO seeking to spark innovation in your venture or an individual striving for personal development, this episode offers a treasure trove of strategies to unlock your creative potential. Join us as we explore how to harness creativity not as a random occurrence but as a dynamic force that propels us toward achieving remarkable things.Don't forget to subscribe to "business is art" for more episodes that blend the art of business with personal growth, innovation, and the pursuit of impact.

In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of drama within the startup ecosystem. Drama and comedy aren't just elements of a good story; they're parts of our everyday work lives, especially in the fast-paced, high-stakes world of startups. Our host discusses the natural human tendencies that lead to drama in the workplace and offers a fresh perspective on managing these dynamics to foster a more productive and positive environment.We start by exploring the concept of work as drama, drawing on insights from David Whyte's "The Heart Aroused" and the idea that all the world's a stage. This sets the stage for a deeper understanding of how we, as founder CEOs and team members, often find ourselves amid workplace drama, playing roles in a real-life drama triangle of victims, persecutors, and rescuers.Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, our host guides us on recognizing these roles within ourselves and others and, more importantly, how to step out of the drama triangle. By becoming more self-aware and engaging in a more constructive and empowering manner, we can transform our work environment from conflict and drama to creativity, productivity, and fulfillment.Tune in to learn how to navigate the complexities of human emotion and interaction in your startup, breaking free from the drama triangle and leading your company to success with grace, humor, and resilience. Whether you're a founder, CEO, or part of a startup team, this episode is packed with valuable insights on turning workplace drama into a force for positive change and innovation.Don't forget to subscribe to "business is art" for more episodes that blend the art of business with personal growth, innovation, and the pursuit of impact.

This episode delves into the profound connection between our emotional state and its influence on business leadership and decision-making. Drawing parallels between the intensity of horror movies and the subtleties of our daily lives, our host explores how background elements, much like a film's score, shape our emotional responses and, subsequently, our actions. We're taken on a journey from a casual jog in the neighborhood, accompanied by the transformative power of music, to the deeper realms of our inner "soundtrack" that guides our decisions as entrepreneurs, CEOs, and founders.Discover how the synergy between our emotional well-being and professional performance can lead to greater awareness, intelligence, and openness to new ideas. Our discussion touches on the importance of being in sync with ourselves, highlighting how a harmonious connection between the heart and brain can amplify our energy, clarity, and engagement with the world.Inspired by David Whyte's poetry, we contemplate the dynamic tension between innocence and experience and how recognizing and adjusting our internal music can empower us with choice in our personal and professional lives. This episode promises to equip founder CEOs with insights on fostering an environment of positive emotional alignment, enhancing leadership capabilities, and making more impactful decisions. Join us as we explore the drama triangle in our next episode, further unraveling our roles and the "music" we choose in response to life's unfolding situations.Don't forget to subscribe to "business is art" for more episodes that blend the art of business with personal growth, innovation, and the pursuit of impact.

Join us in this insightful podcast episode, where we delve into founder CEOs' frustrations and anxieties when their visions for change in their companies fail to materialize. Our host, Ramon Estrada, explores the journey from ideation to implementation, emphasizing the importance of engaging the head, heart, and hands in the process. Drawing inspiration from Saint Francis of Assisi, our host introduces the concept of the four levels of creative change: thought, speech, feeling, and action. Through thoughtful reflection and practical advice, listeners will learn how to align their ideas with their values, communicate effectively with their teams, and take meaningful action to turn dreams into reality. Tune in to unlock the artist within and create a positive impact in your company and beyond.Don't forget to subscribe to "business is art" for more episodes that blend the art of business with personal growth, innovation, and the pursuit of impact.

In this compelling episode of "business is art," hosted by Ramon Estrada, listeners are invited into the world of the business artist. Ramon eloquently discusses the journey from ideation to execution, emphasizing the importance of having ideas and making them a reality through action and commitment. He shares insights from his personal experiences, including organizing an international event in Barcelona, collaborating with IESE Business School, and the challenges of making impactful work visible.Ramon delves into "shallow work" and contrasts it with the depth and impact that true entrepreneurial endeavors should aim for. He challenges the conventional notion of busyness, advocating for meaningful, transformative work beyond mere activity. Through his narrative, Ramon explores the distinction between being an entrepreneur and a founder, underscoring the courage it takes to bring one's ideas to fruition and the reality of the entrepreneurial journey.Highlighting the influence of Steven Pressfield's book "Put Your Ass Where Your Heart Wants to Be," Ramon reflects on the physical and emotional commitment required to create something of value. He stresses the importance of presence, intentionality, and the willingness to face the unknown in the creative process.The episode is a call to action for listeners to engage deeply with their work and to strive for innovation and legacy in their entrepreneurial ventures. Ramon's anecdotes and reflections offer a roadmap for becoming a business artist who dreams and acts to make those dreams a tangible reality, ultimately changing the world for the better.Don't forget to subscribe to "business is art" for more episodes that blend the art of business with personal growth, innovation, and the pursuit of impact.

In this insightful episode, we delve into the marathon-like journey of entrepreneurship, highlighting the critical role of energy management in fostering business growth and personal well-being. Our exploration begins with the understanding that success in entrepreneurship demands more than just hard work and preparation—it requires a holistic approach to managing one's energy across physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual domains.Drawing on a compelling comparison between running a marathon and navigating business challenges, we unravel the importance of resilience, the art of change, and the power of coherence in sustaining entrepreneurial efforts. Through the narrative of Harry, a thrice entrepreneur, we examine the often-overlooked aspects of personal vision and the impact of energy depletion on both professional and personal life.As we navigate various dimensions of resilience, inspired by the insights from the HeartMath Institute, we offer practical strategies for enhancing energy and resilience. From the significance of pausing and embracing silence to the rejuvenating power of positive memories, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for founders seeking to maintain their drive and avoid burnout.Join us as we explore the intricate dance of managing energy, not just for business success but for the holistic well-being that underpins lasting achievement. Whether at the start of your entrepreneurial journey or looking to rekindle your passion, this episode reminds you of the inner resources we must cultivate to thrive in the long run.Don't forget to subscribe to "business is art" for more episodes that blend the art of business with personal growth, innovation, and the pursuit of impact.

Money seems to be the king in business. Money is the number one parameter to measure how the company is performing. However, money is a result.Is it correct to consider it as an essential part of a business? What about the founder's vision?I'm Ramon Estrada. I'm a Founder CEO Coach who helps founders and their businesses grow. I welcome you to "business is art."This is a show about successful entrepreneurship. Unlike other shows about successful entrepreneurship, we only explore the founders' and leaders' journey from purpose, mindset, strategies, and tactics to making an impact and achieving exponential growth. Join us on a weekly podcast to explore and learn from those great creators and business innovators who managed to stay on course with their vision to make a positive impact in the world while being exemplary leaders in their companies, communities, and families. If you want to support us on this quest, don't forget to subscribe.Godspeed!

VUCA world is an acronym for Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous. This kind of world is the one that we're living in today. And unfortunately, most of us do not like it!But could it be that change that uncertainty goes hand in hand with growth? Let's talk about it. I'm Ramon Estrada. I'm a Founder CEO Coach who helps founders and their businesses grow. I welcome you to "business is art."This is a show about successful entrepreneurship. Unlike other shows about successful entrepreneurship, we only explore the founders' and leaders' journey from purpose, mindset, strategies, and tactics to making an impact and achieving exponential growth. Join us on a weekly podcast to explore and learn from those great creators and business innovators who managed to stay on course with their vision to make a positive impact in the world while being exemplary leaders in their companies, communities, and families. If you want to support us on this quest, don't forget to subscribe.Godspeed!

While creativity and innovation are in the hype, successful entrepreneurs are the new celebrities in the media.If you pause for a moment and look a little bit closer, some questions may arise:How many years did it take these founders to become successful overnight?What kind of journey did they have to build and grow their companies?Was it luck, talent, persistence, or what was their secret? Did they enjoy the ride partially, totally, or not at all? It seems that entrepreneurship is way more than following techniques or frameworks. Business is personal...could it be that business is an art?I'm Ramon Estrada. I'm a Founder CEO Coach who helps founders and their businesses grow. I welcome you to "business is art."This is a show about successful entrepreneurship. Unlike other shows about successful entrepreneurship, we only explore the founders' and leaders' journey from purpose, mindset, strategies, and tactics to making an impact and achieving exponential growth. Join us on a weekly podcast to explore and learn from those great creators and business innovators who managed to stay on course with their vision to make a positive impact in the world while being exemplary leaders in their companies, communities, and families. If you want to support us on this quest, don't forget to subscribe.Godspeed!

Capitalism is in crisis, and we can see the symptoms all over the place. Maybe the core cause of these is that society has seen capitalism as only a money-making machine for a few. But as a founder, a business owner, or an entrepreneur, do you believe that it is possible to do good as well as to do well?I'm Ramon Estrada. I'm a Founder CEO Coach who helps founders and their businesses grow. I welcome you to "business is art."This is a show about successful entrepreneurship. Unlike other shows about successful entrepreneurship, we only explore the founders' and leaders' journey from purpose, mindset, strategies, and tactics to making an impact and achieving exponential growth. Join us on a weekly podcast to explore and learn from those great creators and business innovators who managed to stay on course with their vision to make a positive impact in the world while being exemplary leaders in their companies, communities, and families. If you want to support us on this quest, don't forget to subscribe.Godspeed!

Let's talk business! This is the typical line from a movie where the business tycoon directs the conversation of the whole team toward a strategy or a severe plan. But what happens to you when you hear let's talk business? Do you feel all engaged? Or do you think parts of you are left out of the conversation?I'm Ramon Estrada. I'm a Founder CEO Coach who helps founders and their businesses grow. I welcome you to "business is art."This is a show about successful entrepreneurship. Unlike other shows about successful entrepreneurship, we only explore the founders' and leaders' journey from purpose, mindset, strategies, and tactics to making an impact and achieving exponential growth. Join us on a weekly podcast to explore and learn from those great creators and business innovators who managed to stay on course with their vision to make a positive impact in the world while being exemplary leaders in their companies, communities, and families. If you want to support us on this quest, don't forget to subscribe.Godspeed!