Close the Gap

Jorim Holtey-Weber
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Close the Gap is a long-form interview podcast for founders and entrepreneurs about becoming who you say you are. Hosted by Jorim Holtey-Weber, it explores leadership, entrepreneurship, and startup life through honest conversations with builders across the world. No hacks or performance — just real stories about decision-making, responsibility, uncertainty, and personal growth. For founders, leaders, and independent thinkers building meaningful companies without losing themselves. Formerly published as More Life.

  1. May 25

    The Art of Spontaneity w/ Rodrigo de Alvarenga & Jorim Holtey-Weber

    Rodrigo de Alvarenga's Journey of Impact, Resilience, and Purpose In this inspiring episode, Rodrigo de Alvarenga shares how a lack of traditional planning, coupled with a relentless curiosity and resilience, has fueled his impactful career across startups, corporate innovation, and investments. His stories reveal that success often comes from asking questions, showing up with purpose, and embracing the long journey of impact. Main topics The power of curiosity and asking questions over traditional planning The role of resilience and persistence in personal and professional growth Impact as the long-term delta of transformation and value creation Living spontaneously and learning from failures The significance of meaning, language, and authentic purpose Closing the gap: moving into phase four of life with action and intentionality Managing complexity through mental models and self-awareness In this episode: Rodrigo recounts how he built his career without a formal plan, relying on curiosity and purpose He discusses the importance of resilience, learning from failures, and small wins in achieving impact Insights into how impact is the result of long-term transformation, not quick wins The significance of understanding one's strengths, limitations, and the meaning behind actions How his personal journey with Asperger’s syndrome and emotional disconnect shaped his professional approach The concept of passing through the 'gap' to reach the next level of impact and self-orchestration Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Rodrigo Alvarenga: a journey of impact without a plan 02:23 - The importance of living spontaneously and asking questions 03:44 - Impact as the long-term delta of transformation 05:30 - Resilience and small wins in entrepreneurship and life 07:10 - The role of purpose in impact-driven startups 08:41 - Money as utility, not value in itself for impact 09:39 - How impact is a long journey, not an immediate result 11:38 - Impact can be positive or negative, depending on transformation 12:35 - The importance of meaning and language in human progress 14:34 - Learning through failure and the importance of persistence 15:31 - Comparing success in sports and life: effort over recognition 17:29 - Personal stories of striving, recognition, and understanding parental influence 20:09 - The recurring theme of perseverance and learning from mistakes 23:10 - Building skills through diverse sports and life experiences 25:37 - The absence of a rigid plan and the importance of curiosity and observation 28:40 - How the brain manages complexity by breaking down problems into smaller parts 30:35 - The importance of understanding oneself in context 33:01 - Phases of self-awareness and decision-making without a plan 36:37 - Navigating career shifts through curiosity and purpose 40:14 - Surprising career move in banking driven by genuine interest and persistence 44:33 - Impact of authentic purpose over strategic planning in relationships and career 48:47 - The importance of purposeful relationships and working with intention 54:25 - Developing self-awareness and closing the personal and professional gaps 56:29 - Moving into phase four: action, impact, and orchestration 62:38 - Final thoughts: the gap as an opportunity for growth and self-structureResources & Links: HAG Consulting hag(dot)ventures Xcelerate Impact xcelerateimpact(dot)com Connect with Rodrigo: LinkedIn linkedin(dot)com/in/rodrigodealvarenga/ This episode offers a powerful message: embracing spontaneity, curiosity, and purpose can propel you toward impactful actions—closing the gap between ideas and real change.

    1h 4m
  2. Embracing Spontaneity: How to Stay Present in a Fast-Paced World w/ Sagar Kalra

    10/11/2023

    Embracing Spontaneity: How to Stay Present in a Fast-Paced World w/ Sagar Kalra

    In this episode, I spoke with Sagar Kalra about what brings more life into the world. We discussed being present, grateful, and spontaneous, as well as connecting authentically with others. Sagar shared his personal story of starting his own company and the lessons he learned from that experience. He offers insights on building relationships, overcoming setbacks, and continuing to pursue your ambitions. Listen in to hear Sagar's thoughtful perspectives on bringing your full self to life and work. ### Key Discussion Points - The importance of being grateful and spontaneous - Making time to observe and learn from your surroundings - Creating space for others to share their personalities at work - Observing others' quirks to better understand them - Pushing through difficult times by accepting what happened and moving forward - Finding support and external validation after setbacks - Continuing to pursue your ambitions despite obstacles CONNECT WITH SAGAR KALRA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagar-kalra-/ CONNECT WITH JORIM HOLTEY-WEBER: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jholteyweber/ https://emergetoprosper.com/

    47 min
  3. Unlocking Your Potential: Insights from a Forbes 30U30 Entrepreneur w/ Marina Petrakova

    10/04/2023

    Unlocking Your Potential: Insights from a Forbes 30U30 Entrepreneur w/ Marina Petrakova

    In this episode of More Life, Jorim Holtey-Weber interviews entrepreneur Marina Petrakova about her medical technology startup, Vreach, and the challenges and rewards of managing it. They discuss topics such as toxic work environments, mental health, and the affordability and effectiveness of therapy for neurodivergent individuals. Marina emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and inner acceptance, as well as understanding and meeting one's deepest needs. She also discusses the significance of diversity and neurodiversity in business settings and the importance of leading by example. Finally, Marina highlights the importance of mental health and building a positive work environment, and she emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to prioritize their personal well-being. Key topics include: - Letting go of self-criticism to increase space for creativity and risk-taking - Being a role model by living authentically - Creating psychologically safe and collaborative startup cultures - Combining entrepreneurship education with psychology and mental healthcare Guest Bios: Marina Petrakova is the CEO and founder of Vreach, a medical technology startup using VR to provide therapy for neurodivergent individuals. She is a leader in the tech space in Latvia, having founded the community Riga Tech Girls. Marina is a certified professional in clinical audiology, speech language pathology, rehabilitation, and cognitive sciences. Vreach is a Latvian startup using virtual reality to assist neurodivergent patients in receiving engaging, measurable, and effective therapy. Their tool empowers doctors to provide productive therapy while avoiding burnout. CONNECT WITH MARINA PETRAKOVA: vreach.eu linkedin.com/in/marina-petrakova-18b854110/ CONNECT WITH JORIM HOLTEY-WEBER emergetoprosper.com linkedin.com/in/jholteyweber/

    44 min
  4. Mastering Emotional Intelligence Skills with Krissie McMenamin

    09/22/2023

    Mastering Emotional Intelligence Skills with Krissie McMenamin

    In today’s episode of More Life, I’m happy to speak with Krissie McMenamin delving on emotional intelligence skills. Strong interpersonal and professional connections need the development of emotional intelligence. It entails being aware of, cognizant of, and capable of managing your own emotions as well as those of others. Krissie's program could provide valuable insights and techniques to improve these aspects of emotional intelligence. Remember to actively engage in the program and practice what you learn to see meaningful results in your life. Enjoy the journey of mastering emotional intelligence. Don't miss out, subscribe to More Life today! Connect with Krissie McMenamin: AskHuh.com http://mindlevers.com/ Connect with Jorim Holtey-Weber: Emerge to Prosper Emerging Men More Life podcast

    42 min
  5. Compassion, Relationships, and Fun in Seriousness w/ Ruth Veda & Marcus Druen

    08/30/2023

    Compassion, Relationships, and Fun in Seriousness w/ Ruth Veda & Marcus Druen

    Ever wondered how compassionate inquiry can transform your perspective on life? 🤔 In this episode of More Life, I'm joined by Ruth Veda and Marcus Druen to explore the profound impact of bringing fun into moments of seriousness. We delved into the concept that change always unfolds in the present moment. Join us for a captivating conversation as we uncover the power of compassionate inquiry and the art of infusing joy into the serious aspects of life. Tune in now to gain fresh insights on embracing change and living more fully. Don't miss out, subscribe to More Life today! Connect with Ruth Veda: https://ruthveda.com/ Connect with Marcus Druen: https://audacify.com/ https://www.inner1st.io/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusdruen https://twitter.com/marcusdruen Connect with Jorim Holtey-Weber: https://www.emergetoprosper.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/jholteyweber/

    42 min
  6. Unleashing Innovation a Conversation w/ Business Disruptor Carol Sanford

    08/23/2023

    Unleashing Innovation a Conversation w/ Business Disruptor Carol Sanford

    Listen in as we discuss essence, innovation, caring leadership, and more. CONNECT WITH CAROL SANFORD: https://carolsanford.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolsanfordkeynote/ CONNECT WITH JORIM HOLTEY-WEBER https://emergetoprosper.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jholteyweber/

    35 min
  7. Focussing on What's Essential: Leading with Heart and Head w/ Giles Hutchins

    08/09/2023

    Focussing on What's Essential: Leading with Heart and Head w/ Giles Hutchins

    Do you find yourself torn between achieving your goals and staying grounded in the present moment? In this captivating episode of More Life, I dive deep into a thought-provoking conversation with Giles Hutchins. We explore the delicate art of balancing achievement with groundedness, and the transformative power of focusing on what truly matters. Giles shares his insights on how to navigate the fast-paced modern world while remaining connected to our core values and essence. Join us as we uncover practical strategies for harmonizing ambition and mindfulness, and gain valuable insights into leading a more purposeful and balanced life. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion—subscribe to More Life now. Connect with Giles Hutchins: Giles Hutchins http://gileshutchins.com The Future Fit Leadership Academy  http://www.ffla.co/ Leadership Immersions http://www.leadershipimmersions.com/ Books: The Nature of Business (2012) https://thenatureofbusiness.org/about-the-book/ The Illusion of Separation (2014)https://www.amazon.co.uk/Illusion-Separation-Exploring-Current-Crises/dp/1782501274/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=the+illusion+of+separation&sr=8-1 Future Fit (2016) https://www.amazon.co.uk/Future-Fit-Giles-Hutchins-ebook/dp/B01D0DHAB0/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=future+fit&sr=8-1 Regenerative Leadership (2019) http://www.regenerativeleadership.co/ Leading by Nature (2023) https://gileshutchins.com/leadingbynature/ Connect with Jorim Holtey-Weber: www.emergetoprosper.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/jholteyweber/

    41 min
  8. What I Learnt from 22 episodes and what to expect w/ Jorim Holtey-Weber

    08/02/2023

    What I Learnt from 22 episodes and what to expect w/ Jorim Holtey-Weber

    This is a special episode of More Life. I reflect on the process of hosting this podcast, what I've learnt and what I want to do differently in the future. Tune in for some behind the scenes content.

    14 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Close the Gap is a long-form interview podcast for founders and entrepreneurs about becoming who you say you are. Hosted by Jorim Holtey-Weber, it explores leadership, entrepreneurship, and startup life through honest conversations with builders across the world. No hacks or performance — just real stories about decision-making, responsibility, uncertainty, and personal growth. For founders, leaders, and independent thinkers building meaningful companies without losing themselves. Formerly published as More Life.

Information

  • Creator
    Jorim Holtey-Weber
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Jorim Holtey-Weber
  • Show Website
    Close the Gap