Shows
The Founders Truth#08 From Real-Time Data to Real-Time Humanity: AI meets Aliveness with Satish ShenoyIn this concluding part of their conversation, Carlo Mahfouz and Satish Shenoy move from the philosophy of the Founders Truth trilogy into its most practical and provocative territory. They challenge the fear that AI will strip away human creativity — arguing instead that AI will force us to confront what we already lost. They explore the underrated power of communication as a founder’s most critical skill, unpack the connective tissue that ties all three books together into a single, dissolving barrier, and close with a deceptively simple daily practice: always leave an exit.1. AI as Mirror, Not Thre...
2026-02-2629 min
The Founders Truth#07 What If You're the Problem You Need to Solve First? with Satish ShenoyIn this episode, Satish Shenoy and Carlo Mahfouz explore the philosophy behind The Founders Truth Trilogy. Moving from inner clarity to team culture to AI integration, the conversation challenges the myths founders are taught to believe — from startup performance theater to the illusion of solo success. We unpack why starting with yourself is the only honest way to recognize the right problem to solve, why most meetings are just disguised webinars, and why the tension between humans and AI is rooted in misunderstanding rather than inevitability.1. Inner Clarity Before Outer Strategy — Founders cannot identify the right problem to s...
2026-02-1827 min
The Founders Truth#06 AI Won't Kill Creativity — Here's Why Human Nature Always Finds a Way with Monica CoronelIn this thought-provoking continuation of their conversation, Monica Coronel and Carlo Mahfouz dive deep into the tension between structure and flexibility in how we organize society, companies, and creative work. They explore why operating on principles rather than rigid rules creates more adaptive systems, discuss the inevitable shift toward decentralized, founder-driven ecosystems, and offer a surprisingly hopeful perspective on AI's impact on human creativity. Key InsightsThe Principle vs. Rules Framework: Operating on principles allows for interpretation and adaptation, while rigid rules require constant updating and restrict movement. The challenge is that people need to be...
2026-02-1134 min
The Founders Truth#05 Bridging Technology, Humanity, and Art: A Conversation on Innovation and Identity with Monica CoronelIn this episode, Carlo Mahfouz and Monica Coronel delve into the complex, intertwined relationship between technology, human experience, and creativity. They explore how societal boundaries are dissolving, the importance of embracing uncertainty, and ways to foster inclusive innovation in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.Key Topics:The intersection of technology, art, and human experience, and how embracing ambiguity enhances understandingThe risks and opportunities of AI and digital innovation in bridging societal divides and increasing accessibilityThe importance of adaptable governance, policies, and moral frameworks to keep pace with technological evolutionHow collective dialogue and consumer influence can drive...
2026-02-0434 min
The Founders Truth#04 AI, Communication, and the Hard Realities of Change with Dave Van BennekumIn this continuation of our conversation with David Van Bennekum, author of the first self-help book on national security, we explore how AI and technology can bridge communication gaps, the power of playfulness in creating common ground, and the difficult but rewarding journey of extending beyond our comfort zones. We discuss why comedians are masters of vulnerability, how adults create self-imposed limitations, and why transformation is never a solo journey.IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN:• How to use AI to translate between technical jargon and storytelling• Why absurdity and playfulness create space for genuine connection•...
2026-01-2836 min
The Founders Truth#03 From Technical Skills to Conversational Mastery with Dave Van BennekumIn this episode, Carlo Mahfouz and Dave Van Bennekum explore the journey from technical skills to conversational mastery, discussing the challenges and rewards of this transition. They delve into the role of technology and AI in facilitating communication and the importance of bridging different disciplines.TakeawaysTransitioning from technical skills to conversational knowledge is challenging but rewarding.AI can help bridge the gap between analytical and creative thinking.Effective communication requires understanding and adapting to different disciplines.Technology can both confine and liberate our thinking.The journey to conversational mastery involves embracing discomfort.Interdisciplinary approaches enhance...
2026-01-2128 min
The Founders Truth#02 Exploring the Self: Technology's Role in Our Reality with Vjera OrbanicIn this episode, Carlo Mahfouz and Vjera Orbanik delve into the intricate relationship between ambiguity, presence, technology, and language. They explore how these elements shape our understanding of reality and the role of founders in navigating these complexities. The conversation emphasizes the importance of being present, the impact of technology on society, and the power of language to create and interpret our realities.TakeawaysAmbiguity often serves as the foundation for clarity.True presence can lead to a sense of disappearing the self.Technology has the potential to close the gap between individuals and society.Language...
2026-01-1436 min
The Founders Truth#01 Beyond Self-Made: The Power of Team and Ecosystem with Vjera OrbanicIn this inaugural episode of "The Founders Truth," join Carlo Mahfouz and guest Vjera Orbanic as they delve into the paradox of the self-made founder. Explore the essential pillars of ambiguity, absurdity, and aliveness that define a founder's journey. Discover how embracing these elements can lead to personal growth and success, while challenging the myth of individual achievement. This episode offers a fresh perspective on the collective power of teams and the role of technology in shaping our reality. Tune in to uncover the truths that lie beneath the surface of entrepreneurship.
2026-01-1427 min
How I Got HereRajesh Setty — The Right Way to Connect With Influential PeopleI interviewed Rajesh Setty, serial entrepreneur, startup mentor, keynote speaker, and 20-time author. Rajesh published his first novel at age 13 and five more before he turned 17. He’s written over 20 books, 2K blog posts, mentored over 2K founders at Founders Institute, and been part of the founding team of over 10 startups collectively valued at more than $150 million. In 2014, Rajesh was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Soundarya Balasubrami, who works closely with him, describes: “When I met him in 2021, he was in one of the toughest physical phases—he couldn’t walk outside his home, eat on his own, or even li...
2026-01-051h 19
Biz Book Pub Hub PodcastHUB 485: AUTHOR PANEL - Carlo Mahfouz and Michelle Tillis LedermanYet again, I helped one of my clients have the lightbulb moment that publishing a book isn’t about selling copies. The benefit of a book is how it opens doors. The moment your book hits the world, it becomes a beacon, drawing opportunities you might never have considered.
Many authors find that beyond book sales, their work leads to speaking engagements, networking breakthroughs, consulting roles, and other unexpected ways to grow their influence. Your book can position you as an expert, a thought leader, and a sought-after voice in your industry—all while buil...
2025-12-1647 min
Biz Book Pub Hub PodcastHUB 387: AUTHOR PANEL - Bill Soroka, Carlo Mahfouz, and Michelle Tillis LedermanNo matter where you are on your author journey, it can feel like there’s always more to learn—because there is! Especially when you’re new to this process. So many questions to ask and even more questions that you wouldn’t even know to ask.Just getting a book out of your head and into a format that can be purchased takes a tremendous amount of effort. Let’s make sure you don’t just hit publish, but that you properly launch your book so it helps you achieve all of the goals you ha...
2024-10-1057 min
Scandinavian Product Podcast#7 Beyond Engineering Leadership: Listening, Exposing, Empowering | Carlo Mahfouz, author of Reality Check & VP at Laerdal MedicalMy guest today is my friend Carlo Mahfouz. He's the Vice President of Strategic Technology Partnerships at Laerdal Medical and the author of the book Reality Check. Carlo is such a well-articulated thinker. I love how he breaks things down and I really miss working with him. We talked about:* How to become a better listener* How to let go of your ego, and why this is key in great leadership* How to foster collaboration between Engineering, Product and Design* Why Engineers should be highly involved in Di...
2024-05-0251 min
The Podcast by KevinMDAI's role in simplifying communicationWe sit down with Carlo Mahfouz, a technology executive and author, to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in health care communication. Carlo delves into AI's historical roots, its recent acceleration in adoption, and the unique challenges facing its integration into health care. We discuss how AI, particularly large language models like ChatGPT, can humanize the interface between humans and machines, revolutionizing health care practices. Carlo Mahfouz is a technology executive and author of Reality Check: In Pursuit of the Right Questions. He discusses the KevinMD article, "How AI can save lives by si...
2024-04-1718 min
Reality Check by Carlo MahfouzAre you leaving a space for a connection to happen?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/are-you-leaving-a-space-for-a-connection-to-happen
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-11-1203 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzAre you holding your voice back?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/are-you-holding-your-voice-back
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-11-0503 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzIs your unity conditional?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/is-your-unity-conditional
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-10-2903 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzAre you running away into the safety of a prison?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/are-you-running-away-into-the-safety-of-a-prison
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-10-2202 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzCan you recognize and face momentum when it’s not what you expected?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/can-you-recognize-and-face-momentum-when-its-not-what-you-expected
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-10-2002 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzAre you scalable or a centralized machine of decision-making?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/are-you-scalable-or-a-centralized-machine-of-decision-making
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-10-2002 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzAre you ready to fall into the moment?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/are-you-ready-to-fall-into-the-moment
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-10-2002 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzWho will you listen to today?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/who-will-you-listen-to-today
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-10-1002 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzIs your potential overwhelming you?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/is-your-potential-overwhelming-you
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-09-1703 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzCan we accept a world of "and" rather than "either-or"?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/can-we-accept-a-world-of-and-rather-than-either-or
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-09-1003 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzAre you perfect or open to connecting?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/are-you-perfect-or-open-to-connecting
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-09-0301 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzIn your toolkit, do you have precision and finesse or blunt tactics?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/in-your-toolkit-do-you-have-precision-and-finesse-or-blunt-tactics
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-09-0303 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzWho, Where, What is consuming your attention?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/who-where-what-is-consuming-your-attention
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Sunday.
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2023-08-2001 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzAre you reducing your communication to a 1 or 0?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/are-you-reducing-your-communication-to-a-1-or-0
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Thursday.
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2023-08-1302 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzWhat are you priming for?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/what-are-you-priming-for
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Thursday.
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2023-08-0402 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzIs your divergence acceptable?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/is-your-divergence-acceptable
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Thursday.
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2023-07-2702 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzWho do you trust?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/who-do-you-trust
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Thursday.
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2023-07-2002 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzAre you lurking in the shadows?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/are-you-lurking-in-the-shadow
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Thursday.
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2023-07-1302 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzDo you and your counterpart use the same context for the same word?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/do-you-and-your-counterpart-use-the-same-context-for-the-same-word
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Thursday.
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2023-07-0602 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzAre we influenced by content or interpretations?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/are-we-influenced-by-content-or-interpretations
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Thursday.
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2023-06-2902 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzDo you see complexity or simplicity?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/do-you-see-complexity-or-simplicity
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Thursday.
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2023-06-2302 minReality Check by Carlo MahfouzDo you have the space to exist?Read this issue here: https://www.realitycheck.institute/do-you-have-the-space-to-exist
Join change-makers in exploring mind-shifting insights on awareness, innovation, and leadership in less than 5 minutes every Thursday.
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2023-06-1502 min
The Authority Podcast — Expert Insights and Fresh Ideas for Education LeadersReality Check with Carlo MahfouzCarlo Mahfouz is a Renaissance man. An intrapreneur and product development executive in the healthcare ed-tech space with a deep understanding of technology, he works developing products to help improve patients’ outcomes and driving change in organizations, teams, and individuals. In this episode, we discuss Carlo’s book, Reality Check: In Pursuit of the Right Questions. The conversation includes:The right questions direct our attention to the problems that matter most. The wrong questions are aimed at distractions.How to perform a reality check on competing priorities“Priority is a function...
2023-06-0543 min
The Creator CommunityFinding the Right Questions to Drive Results | Carlo Mahfouz | S4 E1How do you make decisions? Ever felt like you’re not present enough to make the best decisions for yourself? Is there a better way to find answers? Debut author Carlo Mahfouz found himself racing through life until an extreme scare appeared right before him. In the midst of a typical chaotic day, he received news that a bomb had gone off in his home country where much of his family still lives. He faced a glaring moment, a reality check, that he could not overlook. He built a new plan for his life and set off to write a book...
2022-05-1238 min
I palchi invisibiliTrascendanceMatteo Valentini ci guida nel mondo metal di 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲.━━━━━━━━Al mio ingresso nel mondo di Trascendance, trovo una luce accecante circondare due figure umane sul palcoscenico. Sono un uomo e una donna seduti su un letto sfatto, bianco come i loro corpi seminudi. Il colore, contrastante con l’oscurità della platea, non ha nulla del candore e della purezza a lui di solito associati, ma richiama piuttosto la sterilizzazione di una sala operatoria e la cupezza di un obitorio.In occasione dei frequenti cambi scena che punteggiano tutta la sessione di prove, regalando brevi attimi di buio totale, i due attori si esercitano a cambiare abito o...
2021-10-2802 min