Introduction
Welcome to Leaders Living Their Values, where we go beyond the surface to explore how today’s changemakers lead with heart, alignment, and authenticity. In this episode, global credibility expert Mitchell Levy is joined by Jeremy Lessaris, a purpose-driven entrepreneur who has started nearly 50 ventures. Together, they explore how leaders can stop surviving and start designing lives they actually want to live while still building successful businesses that serve communities and leave legacies.
Summary
What happens when a survivalist entrepreneur finally burns out? Jeremy Lessaris shares his evolution from hustle-at-all-costs to living a deeply intentional and purpose-driven life. This episode explores lifestyle design, impact entrepreneurship, and how Jeremy’s failures served as the best mentors he ever had. If you’ve ever felt trapped in your business, this conversation will help you break free and build something that feels as good as it performs.
Quotes
“When it was all about money, every company was a failure. Purpose changed everything.”
“You don’t find your passion by thinking you find it by doing.”
“Design your life first. Then build the business that fits inside it.”
Takeaways
Build from Lifestyle, Not Pressure: Decide how you want to live before deciding what to build.
Failure Is a Teacher: Jeremy’s 40+ failed ventures taught him more than any success ever could.
Start Now, Not Perfect: Don’t wait for clarity—take action, feel it out, and adjust as you go.
Invest in People: Relationships, mentorship, and collaboration are more valuable than ideas alone.
Timeline
Jeremy's Background and Transition from Survivalist to Lifestyle Designer (0:03)
Reflecting on Past Experiences and Regrets (2:36)
Serving Others and Community Focus (5:26)
Impact on Community and Social Entrepreneurship (7:37)
Challenges and Lessons from Entrepreneurial Journey (15:53)
Balancing Passion and Profit (20:35)
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs (22:45)
Connecting with Jeremy and Future Plans (25:15)
Conclusion
Jeremy Lessaris challenges the hustle culture by offering a more human alternative: build from who you are, not just what the market wants. This episode is your permission slip to realign, reset, and rebuild this time with purpose at the center. Whether you’re in the startup trenches or reflecting after an exit, Jeremy’s story will help you reimagine leadership that nourishes you as much as it serves others.
