Sometimes, you just want a quick take on a big topic  – kind of like CliffsNotes, but for business – so I’ll keep it short. 

So many of you have reached out and are curious about some of the biggest business lessons I have gained from working alongside two of my mentors, Red McCombs and Dr. George Kozmetsky.  Both of them were “self-made” and, in that process, became billionaires. They shared so much great advice, both became investors as well as mentors and both opened their knowledge and networks to help me grow. I learned so much from them and I hope these snippets inspire you ,too, as you continue in the game in business to reach your fullest potential.

On behalf of the EBW team and me, here is to helping you grow the business you love! 

1. Think in Decades, Not Just Years

o Billionaires don’t chase short-term wins; they build for the long haul. Plan your

business like a chessboard—always thinking five, ten, or twenty years ahead. This

long-term thinking creates exponential impact.

2. Time is Your Most Valuable Currency

o The most successful people don’t spend time on low-value tasks. Ruthlessly

prioritize, delegate what doesn’t require you, and focus only on high-impact

activities that drive growth.

3. Success is a Team Sport

o No billionaire does it alone. Surround yourself with the best minds—mentors,

investors, advisors, and a strong team. The fastest way to scale is through

the right people.

4. Solve Big Problems, Make Big Money

o The wealthiest people focus on solving problems that affect millions (or billions)

of people. Ask yourself: Am I solving a pain point at scale? The bigger the

problem, the bigger the opportunity.

5. Always Be in the Room Where Decisions are Made

o Whether it’s with investors, policymakers, or corporate partners, put yourself in

rooms where influence happens. The right conversations create opportunities that

money alone can’t buy.

Photo: Red McCombs with Ingrid Vanderveldt