Episode 12: Rick Ekstein

Rick Ekstein started out in a family business. He’s known for having been the president and CEO of Weston Forest Products and founding Phaze 3 in 2016. Rick is interested in philanthropy and advocacy, politics and policy, and disrupting the status quo.

In today’s episode, you’ll hear Rick talk about his background, what it means to be a planner, and why self-awareness is so important. He also talks about the value of recognizing when you can’t solve a problem on your own and need to seek outside help, including therapy, when necessary. Listen in to hear what Rick has to say about teaching kids about the tools they need to succeed, the value of having a network, and whether it’s helpful to be motivated by a fear of failure.

Topics Discussed in This Episode

•  Rick’s history with Weston
• The importance of not knowing that you have a ceiling
• The categories of good leadership
• What it means to be a planner
• Why leaders are not always good teachers
• How much self-awareness is nature and how much is nurture
• Whether Rick’s work ethic was inherent or instilled
• Accepting success
• How parents can teach their kids to become successful
• Being motivated by a fear of failure
• The importance of your network
• Philanthropy and advocacy
• Maintaining relationships in your network
• Lessons for driving success and avoiding pitfalls

Related Links

Rick Ekstein

 Quotes From the Show

 “I was brought up with this work ethic of hard work.”

“It takes a lot of courage to say we’re going to do something brand new.”

“I do believe to a very large degree that if you want to do something bad enough, you’ll figure out a way to do it.”