Michael Perry, CEO of Maple, shares his unfiltered perspective on the intersection of ambitious leadership and intentional parenting. In this raw conversation, Michael explores how becoming a father fundamentally shifted what he's "greedy" for - moving from chasing professional accolades to savoring fleeting moments with his 6 and 3-year-old sons.
We dive deep into Michael's philosophy of "doors that never reopen" - the reality that each phase of childhood closes permanently, creating an urgent need for presence. He reveals how this awareness shapes not only his personal choices but also how he's building Maple as a company that actively supports parents in prioritizing family without sacrificing professional growth.
Michael candidly discusses the "marathon investment approach" to life - understanding your capacity for carrying weight over time rather than pursuing unsustainable anti-fragility. He shares practical insights about creating high-trust remote work environments, reframing consequences as intentional investments, and the crucial difference between being in a relationship versus being in a true partnership when raising children.
This conversation challenges conventional wisdom about work-life balance, offering instead a framework for making intentional choices about where to invest our finite time and energy. Whether you're a parent, leader, or both, Michael's perspective on living with radical presence will shift how you think about success, legacy, and what deserves your deepest attention.
