On today's episode of The Edge of Excellence, Matt is joined by Sean Phelps, as they explore the concept of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of gaining practical experiences outside traditional educational pathways. Sean reflects on his journey, highlighting his involvement with College Works, where he developed essential business skills by managing teams and projects while still in college. He shares insights about the value of real-world applications of business concepts, advising aspiring entrepreneurs to focus on technical skills in college and seek out entrepreneurial experiences in the broader world, using resources like the Kauffman Foundation and Y Combinator. During the discussion, Sean elaborates on his career trajectory, including the tough decisions he faced when offered a full-time position that conflicted with his existing commitments. He shares a critical turning point where he chose to prioritize his role at College Works, attributing his professional skills and opportunities to the experiences he gained there. This choice led to him eventually being fired from the FinTech company he was involved with, underscoring the challenges and sacrifices inherent in balancing multiple career paths and the unpredictable nature of startup environments. Matt and Sean also explore the personal aspects of entrepreneurship, discussing the integration of work, family, and personal life. Sean credits his entrepreneurial flexibility with allowing him to commit time to family and personal interests, advocating for a balanced life where work does not overshadow other responsibilities. They conclude by stressing the importance of building a solid reputation through hard work and reliability, which in turn fosters professional relationships and opens up opportunities for future ventures and collaborations. Join Matt and Sean for this fascinating episode.  Enjoy!  What You Will Learn In This Show: How hands-on experience in the field can surpass traditional education paths for aspiring entrepreneurs.Why challenging economic times, such as the 2008 financial crisis, can serve as the best periods to hone entrepreneurial skills and lead businesses.How adapting to circumstances by working smarter and harder can set a foundation for success.Strategies for managing a successful career while maintaining strong family ties and personal wellbeing.How entrepreneurship offers the flexibility to prioritize life events without sacrificing professional growth.How past failures and humility in leadership can enhance team performance and drive better results.The importance of empowering team members by recognizing their potential to surpass your achievements.How strategic time investment in work, relationships, and hobbies can lead to a more fulfilled and balanced life.The concept of 'investing time' vs. 'spending time,' and how this perspective can lead to more effective personal and professional life management.And so much more...