“Success Leaves Clues” with Host Dustin Plantholt and Guest Austin Ambrozi
In this episode of “Success Leaves Clues,” hosted by Dustin Plantholt, listeners can expect an enthralling conversation with Austin Ambrozi, an accomplished entrepreneur with a fresh perspective on success and business. The episode begins with Austin defining success not by the typical markers of wealth or status but by the congruence between one’s circumstances and personal values. This thought-provoking viewpoint challenges the conventional wisdom that equates success primarily with financial achievement. Austin elaborates on his philosophy, explaining that the true debate about success often revolves around balancing professional and personal life, particularly the tension between money and family. By focusing on values, he argues, individuals can redefine success on their terms, finding fulfillment even without traditional markers of achievement. The conversation then shifts to Austin's educational background in economics from the University of Missouri, Columbia (Mizzou). He discusses how his college experience shaped his thinking, not just through academic knowledge but also by developing his social intelligence. He highlights the unique environment of a large university, where thousands of peers from similar backgrounds come together, providing an invaluable learning experience in human interactions and networking. As a serial entrepreneur, Austin shares his process of transforming ideas into reality. He introduces the concept of the "impact of reality," acknowledging that ideas often change when confronted with practical challenges. This pragmatic approach involves assessing which values a pursuit satisfies and determining its feasibility in the real world. This methodology applies not only to business ventures but also to personal relationships and creative endeavors. Dustin delves deeper into the entrepreneurial mindset, discussing the importance of embracing uncertainty and the power of asking questions. Austin considers his ability to ask insightful questions his "superpower," crucial in sales and essential for identifying the right clients, friendships, and business opportunities. He notes that many people hesitate to ask questions due to fear of being wrong, which can hinder personal and professional growth. The episode also explores how success and ambition can impact relationships. Austin reflects on how his friendships have evolved, noting that his business partner remains his best friend and will be the best man at his wedding. However, he acknowledges that pursuing financial freedom and professional success often requires significant sacrifices, leading to changes in other relationships. He shares the difficult choices he has made, missing personal events to focus on his entrepreneurial goals, and the importance of determining which values and relationships are non-negotiable. Balancing priorities and maintaining a semblance of work-life balance is another key theme. Austin admits there is no perfect formula, especially for high-performing individuals or those in the building stage of their careers. He emphasizes the need to prioritize critical tasks and handle the most pressing issues—what he calls identifying "the grenade"—to ensure the survival and success of his business. Listeners will also get a glimpse into Austin's daily routine, which, despite its chaos, includes consistent elements like his eating habits and exercise regimen. He talks about the importance of minimizing decision fatigue by standardizing meals and reducing unnecessary choices, allowing him to focus more on his business. His routine is flexible, adapting to the demands of different time zones and unexpected challenges. Towards the end of the episode, Austin discusses his approach to setting ambitious goals, comparing them to "moonshot days." These are days where he aims to achieve the best possible outcomes, even if he only occasionally hits the mark. He also shares his philosophy of continuous learning, stressing
