297. The Power of Persistence with Ryan Kugler (Part 1)

The Greg McKeown Podcast

About the Guest:

Ryan Kugler is an embodiment of passion turned into a successful career. Starting his journey with a stark fascination for filmmaking and Hollywood magic, Ryan was networking and producing his own film assignments by the age of 13. His early interest in film set the stage for his entrepreneurial journey. A seasoned entrepreneur, Ryan has forged a path that spans film, entrepreneurship, strategic business development, and more. Known for his tenacity to make things happen, he approaches challenges with a mindset where anything is achievable. Today, he stands as a testimony to effective communication, kindness, and an unyielding drive, with a portfolio that includes running a wholesale business and organizing large-scale events through his event company.

Episode Summary:

In this episode I dive into the captivating life story of Ryan Kugler, whose early days on the set of iconic productions shaped his future in entrepreneurship and event organization. As an enigmatic figure who believes in the essence of persistence, Ryan's journey from mingling with film stars as a teenager to masterminding large-scale events is nothing short of inspirational.

The conversation uncovers Ryan's innate ability to execute with precision, his transition from the creative aspirations of a director to the orchestration skills of a producer, and the relentless pursuit of bringing visions to life. Discussing the mechanics of networking and action, Greg McKeown and Ryan Kugler explore how a mix of curiosity and chutzpah can overcome challenges and create exceptional outcomes. With a tone that's both aspirational and grounded, the episode is a treasure trove for aspiring entrepreneurs and creators alike.

Key Takeaways:

• Ryan Kugler's early exposure to film and sets led to a pivotal encounter with Ted Danson, resulting in an opportunity to direct a short film at the age of 13.
• Ryan's talents lean more toward production and getting things done, showcasing an ability to handle logistics and persevere through challenges.
• The value of face-to-face networking and bold initiative is vital in Ryan's success, breaking through conventional barriers and accessing opportunities.
• The episode highlights the concept of holding '5000 things in your head' and the notion of instant productions, where Ryan excels in his event planning business, creating temporary, intricate setups for diverse events.
• Execution as an art form is underscored by the interview, demonstrating that bringing a great idea to life involves seamless collaboration, perseverance, and constant learning.

Notable Quotes:

• "If you just keep persisting in your goal and your passion... you're going to get what you want." - Ryan Kugler
• "Everyone has a passion for something... you just have to persist and just keep going after it." - Ryan Kugler
• "Execution... it's about bringing all this talent together... and they knock off all the edges... and eventually you've got something that's polished and it's beautiful." - Greg McKeown

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