TJ Bonaventura /// Drink Your Own Kool-Aid /// Season5:E127

What does being genuine look like?   Genuine people are simply who they are, all the time.   A genuine person forges their own unique path not fearing the opinions of others. Simply, they are comfortable and confident with who they are.   Our guest, TJ Bonaventura, discusses his journey to becoming the version of himself that feels genuine. In the past, his struggles of having a harsh inner critic constantly led him to feel low-self-esteem and self-doubt. Often, he found himself feeling disingenuous and like he had sold his soul.   But this is far from the truth today. He is currently a successful entrepreneur and creator of StudioPod Media. Being genuine has taught him how to be a better leader, how to surround himself with loving people and the importance of being happy, not content.   “I never want to be content I want to be happy” - TJ Bonaventura   TJ Bonaventura is the co-founder of StudioPod Media. A full-service podcast media and production company helping organizations and individuals create their podcasts.   A product of Washington State University, he spent his childhood split between a suburb of Detroit and San Francisco.   Initially, he dreamed of being in the NBA before being sucked into the silicon valley tech life. While always dreaming of being an entrepreneur, he hesitated in making that jump until finally coming to the conclusion that was the life he needed.   Topics we discuss: Navigating difficult conversations “Ask why” Is it from a genuine standpoint? If you agree or not, it becomes a healthy conversation. Radar Bullsh*t radar Sensing people's authenticity. Reflective in people Hes surrounded with Entrepreneurship Rid yourself of doubt. Make your own path. Trust your gut. How he’s built Strong inner critic “I never want to be content I want to be happy.” Taking a chance on yourself When to jump by mike Lewis Leadership Duty to motivate company. You must be wholehearted. References: SaaS Technology Definition (Software as a Service) 'When to Jump' - Mike Lewis Studio Pod Julian's Bio Page Episode about knowing your audience on their website   Credits:   Lead editor + Producer: Ruf Holmes   Music: Main Theme: "Eaze Does It" by Shye Eaze and DJ Rufbeats, a More In Common Podcast Exclusive. All music created by DJ Rufbeats