Listen "EP18: Amazon Leader Reveals What Separates High Performers from Leaders"
Episode Synopsis
Send us a textAsk us a question or suggest an Episode: https://forms.gle/8tEg2CKTNNWteSgt9In this episode of Beyond the Build, we sit down with Felix Ekwueme, Technical Advisor to the VP of International Sellers at Amazon, to talk about the real drivers of career growth that go way beyond just “doing good work.”We unpack why comfort and growth don’t coexist, the dangers of being the silent high performer, and what it really takes to rise through the ranks—especially as an immigrant or underrepresented voice in tech.Felix also shares hard-earned lessons from his military background, how he made the leap from IC to Executive roles, and why writing is one of the most underrated career tools. You’ll learn how to make your work more legible, influence without authority, and make decisions with speed—not perfection.Whether you’re early in your career or stepping into leadership, this episode is packed with gems on navigating hierarchies, capturing your value, and growing with intention.Follow us on Social Media Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/beyondthebuildpodcast) TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@beyondthebuildpodcast)Connect with Ope - https://www.linkedin.com/in/osunkoyaope/Connect with Uma: Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/umacodes) Tiktok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@umacodes) Twitter: (https://twitter.com/umacodes) LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/umaabu/)00:00 – Intro & Setup02:42 – Felix’s Role at Amazon03:20 – Military Background & Lessons07:23 – From IC to Executive12:29 – Speed of Decision-Making19:16 – Writing as a Growth Tool29:59 – Disagree & Commit39:30 – Serendipity & Networking43:07 – Career Transitions1:07:49 – Technology & Utility (Crypto vs. Real Value)1:08:30 – Generative AI & Adoption Cycles1:09:15 – Fast Learning Cycles1:11:18 – Roadmap Accountability Challenges1:11:35 – Closing Thoughts & Takeaways