In this episode of the Empire State Entrepreneurs: New York Business Law Podcast, host David Pfalzgraf welcomes longtime friend and community leader John Osberg - entrepreneur, endurance athlete, growth strategist, and current Director of Development & Partnerships for the PGA of America – Western New York Section.
John’s story is anything but linear. From unexpected opportunities in Buffalo’s early startup scene to founding his own consulting firm and now advancing golf’s role in community engagement, John shares the lessons of grit, resilience, and open-mindedness that shaped his path.
The conversation touches on:
- Lessons learned from working in Buffalo startups before the rise of 43North.
- How LinkedIn became a cornerstone for John’s professional and community connections, well before it was mainstream.
- His work with the PGA of America to expand access, support veterans, and diversify the game of golf.
- The role of physical and mental health in entrepreneurship, including his journey from unhealthy habits to ultra-endurance athlete.
- Why “training for life” and setting intentional goals are essential for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone striving for impact.
Episode Highlights
- From Jaguar to Startup Office: John recalls the day he showed up to his first tech interview in 2012—only to find the “headquarters” was in an apartment. That moment launched a five-year crash course in grit and resilience.
- Ahead of the Curve on LinkedIn: Encouraged by his father in 2008, John built a professional brand early on LinkedIn that continues to shape his career opportunities and impact.
- Golf as a Platform for Good: In his current PGA role, John is leading initiatives that support youth development, diversify the sport, and, through PGA HOPE, literally save veterans’ lives.
- Training for Life: After hitting rock bottom in 2019, John cut out alcohol, rebuilt his health, and discovered ultra-endurance sports as a path to physical strength, mental clarity, and community leadership.
- Mind Over Miles: John joined Buffalo’s 24-hour run/walk for mental health awareness—logging 70 miles and showing the next generation of leaders what it means to go all in.
- Entrepreneurial Mindsets: Resilience, open-mindedness, and “GSD” (get stuff done) remain the core principles that have carried John across industries and into his dream role.
