In the beginning
At 8, I unlocked the joy of collecting. Starting with stamps and dreaming of coins, I carried this love through the years, expanding both the variety and investment in my collections. But that’s a story for another time…
At 11, I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey, trading NBA stickers and stamps. Taking initiative, I sold my first-ever car, actively assisting my family in securing an advantageous deal. These early forays into commerce taught me about market dynamics and contributed to my family's financial stability.
At 12, I eagerly sought out odd jobs, such as caring for the gardens of elderly neighbors and cooking pickled products for local stores. Through diligence and perseverance, I not only earned money but also cultivated a sense of responsibility and empathy.
At 17, my passion for business intensified. Immersed in the realm of technology, I became a trusted computer consultant for publicly traded companies . Then fueled by an unwavering drive, I pursued an executive MS in Finance (EMSF) at Baruch College in 2003, propelling me towards a future as an entrepreneur.
My Career
After college, I ventured into day trading and as fate would have it, I eventually found my calling in sales and marketing.
My journey into the marketing world began with a rude awakening, as I faced the harsh realities that awaited me. After entrusting my business to marketers, I experienced a staggering loss of $200,000. However, this setback fueled my determination to delve deeper into the intricacies of the business landscape and uncover the keys to successful promotion. By exposing the deceptive practices of agencies and marketers who preyed on unsuspecting entrepreneurs, I developed my own unique strategies. Today, one of my missions is guiding fellow business owners, equipping them with the necessary knowledge to avoid such losses and achieve prosperity.
With an insatiable hunger for success, I embarked on a bold venture as a partial owner, assuming the roles of CEO and CMO at Atlas Auto. During my tenure, I not only led the organization but also played a significant role in its ownership and strategic decision-making processes. I successfully orchestrated the sale of extraordinary cars like the iconic 1967 Mustang, the timeless 1957 BelAir, and the formidable custom H1, showcasing my keen eye for valuable and sought-after vehicles.
Moreover, I forged partnerships and leveraged my business acumen to increase donations for several non-profit organizations by an impressive 25% through my guerrilla marketing tactics.
In 2006, I furthered my studies by bagging an LL.M. (Master of Law) from Cardozo Law School while also running more profitable businesses.
A Hobby Turned Business
But my ambitions didn't stop there. I sought to transform my cherished hobbies into flourishing enterprises. Starting with a fascination for stamp and coin collecting, I gradually expanded my horizons, delving into the acquisition of vintage cars and exquisite jewelry. With an astute eye for unique items and a keen business acumen, I mastered the art of the buy-and-sell game, basking in the success of my ventures for over five rewarding years.
Undeterred by the ebb and flow of entrepreneurial pursuits, I pressed forward, founding additional businesses, including an international advertising agency. Along this arduous path, I encountered both triumphs and setbacks. I sold highly profitable enterprises to new owners while also facing losses that taught me invaluable lessons. The 2008 global financial crash dealt a harsh blow, forcing me to shutter my beloved Atlas Auto Company and weather the resulting financial setbacks.
Yet, my passion for business endured, unyielding in the face of adversity. Each setback I encountered served as a springboard for growth and enlightenment, surpassing the knowledge gleaned from any book I had ever read.
My Biggest Setback
In 2016, I embarked on a groundbreaking endeavor—the creation of ReCoin, the world's first real estate-backed cryptocurrency. The project flourished initially, but in 2017, a significant setback loomed on the horizon. The consequences of taking shortcuts led to an 18-month sentence in 2019 and the forced closure of my ReCoin company due to changes in the SEC's legal framework.
The Victory
This period marked the second turning point in my life after immigration. Instead of succumbing to despair during my confinement, I embraced this phase as a catalyst for radical transformation. I refused to waste time and seized the opportunity to immerse myself in knowledge. I devoured approximately 90 books on economics, marketing, sales, psychology, neuroscience, history, the brain, stress, success, and the journeys of legendary individuals. These readings enriched my already vast pool of knowledge and skills, allowing me to connect the puzzle pieces with the newfound wealth of information.
But that's not all. During this time, I had the privilege of engaging with remarkable individuals whom I would rarely encounter in ordinary circumstances. I had conversations with esteemed economists, artists, historians, management experts, prominent businesspeople, and owners of global companies. The concentration of invaluable insights in a single place was unlikely in the routines of everyday life. We all make mistakes—some more significant than others. However, what matters most is each person's ability to reflect on both the falls and the triumphs, ultimately extracting a concentrated essence of success within themselves. I achieved this feat. I absorbed every bit of experience, maximizing its value despite the gray fence surrounding me and the oppressive atmosphere outside—never within.
Moreover, I took advantage of this time to write nearly a dozen books. It would be unjust to remain silent after accumulating such a wealth of experience and knowledge. These books will soon be accessible to anyone eager to learn. Now, I see the world from both perspectives: how things should be done and how they shouldn't. It may sound cliché, but people often attempt to encompass vast spheres, grasping at anything and everything without truly comprehending the dichotomy of "should" and "shouldn't." This path leads to costly mistakes. However, you can avoid this pitfall, as you have the power to determine the price you are willing to pay for change in your life. That's why I propose that you continue or embark on your journey under my guidance and mentorship.
Whether you desire to acquire a specific skill, seek support in resolving a complex issue, or have a steadfast mentor guiding you every step of the way—know this: I am here, ready to lead you with a firm hand no matter what it is, I can stand by your side. In those difficult times, I never had such a mentor or even the chance to consult with a pro like this, but you have that opportunity right here, right now. Sharing my experiences and insights truly ignites a fire within me. I will always carve out time for it, ensuring that anyone who seeks it has a sturdy hand of support when needed or never needs it in the future.
Together, let's embark on a journey of growth, empowerment, and lasting transformation.