Gabriel interviews Jorge Valdes, a financial planner and CrossFit enthusiast, on building a seven-figure business, raising successful kids, and staying fit at 56. Learn his secrets to discipline and goal-setting! (188 characters)
In this dynamic episode of the Pro Activators Podcast, host Gabriel welcomes Jorge Valdes, a 56-year-old certified financial planner, founder of Financial Designs, Inc., and dedicated CrossFit athlete. Jorge shares his inspiring journey from a tough start in the insurance industry during a recession to building a thriving business, raising three successful children, and maintaining fitness, while seeking to deepen his spiritual life.
Key Highlights:
- Financial Success: Starting at 21 with Mutual of Omaha in 1989, Jorge faced rejection but hit President’s Club in three months. He founded Financial Designs, Inc. in 1993, now generating $7–8 million annually with a net profit of ~$3 million. His strategy? Setting a $2,000 weekly sales goal, with Saturday work as a consequence for missing it.
- Family Legacy: Jorge’s proudest achievement is his children—Jessica (31, pregnant), Jennifer (CFP, wealth division founder), and Jorge Jr. (25, CFP fiduciary)—who work with him. Post-divorce at 33, he prioritized presence, never missing a day with them, fostering open communication and respect.
- Fitness Discipline: From a chubby teen to a CrossFit regular (4–5 times weekly) since 14, Jorge recently added yoga for flexibility. He credits fitness for mental focus, starting with jogging, push-ups, and ab wheels before joining LA Fitness and CrossFit 10 years ago.
- Spiritual Growth: After his mother’s passing, Jorge embraced spirituality, planning to read the New International Version (NIV) Bible and pray to build a relationship with God, applying his disciplined approach to this new area.
- Mindset and Habits: Inspired by Zig Ziglar’s “help others get what they want” and The Art of the Deal, Jorge uses goal-setting, de-escalates conflicts, and tackles tough tasks first (“eating frogs”). He reads books like Steve Jobs’ biography to stay inspired.
- Advice for Listeners:
- Young Professionals: Set specific goals with consequences and push past comfort zones, like Jorge did with public speaking.
- Fitness: Commit to consistent workouts, start small, and try yoga for flexibility and mental clarity.
- Spirituality: Build a relationship with God through prayer, NIV Bible reading, and serving in a church community.
- Family: Be present, communicate openly, and treat employees like family to foster loyalty.
Connect with Jorge via Financial Designs, Inc. for financial planning services website: fdnational.com
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