EP 021: Dream Plan Execute - With LaSean Smith
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Description
In this episode of "Dream Plan Execute," we dive into the extraordinary journey of LaSean, a seasoned media and technology executive with a trailblazing career. LaSean's tech odyssey began at the age of ten when he started coding on a TRS-80 MC-10 computer, igniting a lifelong passion for software. From his humble beginnings, he evolved into a multifaceted professional with pivotal roles in engineering, product management, and strategy across the realms of web, mobile, and mixed reality (AR/VR). LaSean's diverse career path took him from being an avionics technician in the US Navy to founding and selling businesses and even serving as a management consultant at Deloitte, working with renowned clients like Cablevision, Electronic Arts, Sony, T-Mobile, Target, TOMS Shoes, and Warner Brothers Studios. His journey led him to Microsoft, where he managed strategy and operations for a portfolio of apps and games in Azure, Dynamics, and Xbox. Later, as Director of Inspirational Shopping at Amazon, he spearheaded a team of innovators focused on the creator economy and social commerce. Beyond his corporate endeavors, LaSean is a pioneer, holding several patents in artificial intelligence, computer vision, machine learning, and media streaming. His profound grasp of behavioral economics and systems engineering fueled high-growth businesses within Microsoft and the seamless integration of multiple M&A deals. He's also made his mark in the world of indie filmmaking as an executive producer for six feature films. LaSean's unique blend of content production and software development skills across various platforms equips him with a versatile toolkit for tackling diverse business opportunities. His book, "Values-Based Business Design," explores strategies for developing high-growth products in the modern global marketplace, with real-world implementation in multiple venture-backed startups. But LaSean's journey doesn't stop at technology and business. His unwavering commitment to personal growth and creative expression is encapsulated in his six-word mantra: "Know thyself. Make things. Stay free." In this episode, LaSean shares his mission to empower others to achieve financial independence and break free from conventional career constraints. Drawing from his experiences as a solopreneur, corporate executive, film producer, private equity investor, and software developer, he outlines three key principles: Create Leverage: LaSean emphasizes the importance of audience building and automated processes to create leverage in your endeavors. Ignore Status, Chase Freedom: He encourages listeners to prioritize personal freedom over societal status, focusing on what truly matters. Optimize for Predictable Free Cash Flow: Rather than pursuing relentless growth, LaSean advocates optimizing your path towards predictable free cash flow. Currently, LaSean dedicates his time to hiring skilled operators to run his businesses, exploring new ideas, and teaching others how to methodically pursue their life goals. Currently, LaSean is the founder of CAGR Investments, a private equity firm, and he's on a mission to help people unlock financial independence and success by sharing his knowledge and principles. He focuses on creating leverage through audience building and automated processes, prioritizing freedom over status, and optimizing for predictable free cash flow. Join us for an inspiring conversation with LaSean as he shares his invaluable insights, strategies, and quest to fill the world with fresh ideas, new sounds, bold images, and captivating experiences that empower people to reach their full potential.
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