From Cult to Captain of Industry:  Discover the Unseen Impact of Cult Experiences on my Remarkable Career JourneyAs the realization struck me, I couldn't help but wonder how I had become so blind to my own motivations. Climbing the corporate ladder had always been a means of survival for me; a way to escape my haunting past and secure a sense of stability. But now, with my therapist's gentle guidance, it became glaringly obvious that my desire to please the man at the top stemmed from deep-rooted trauma.My childhood in a cult had scarred me in ways I was only beginning to comprehend. The control exerted by this cult leader had ingrained in me an insatiable need for approval and validation from authority figures. As I climbed higher and higher in the corporate world, it was as if I was re-enacting those power dynamics on an unconscious level - doing anything necessary to please those above me.Nevertheless, this newfound awareness opened up a door of opportunity for healing and self-discovery. It allowed me to question every decision I made in my career thus far - were they truly driven by passion or simply motivated by unresolved pain? With this knowledge, I embarked on a journey of self-reflection and began unraveling the intricate layers of my professional life that were woven so tightly with my personal traumas.On this episode, We'll talk about:Growing up in a religious cult led by Mark, who is considered God.Childhood trauma led to pleasing authority and being ahead of othersHe saw a lot of sexual, psychological, and physical abuse but felt powerlessHe moved to Monterey, Tennessee, and worked at a convenience store and Burger KingFaced insecurity and lost parents, but worked hard for financial support and returned to school.Joined Sigma Chi fraternity and co-opted at Milliken, pleasing boss with hard workGraduated cum laude in 1993, worked for TRW VSSI and AutoleaveLearned the importance of courage, honesty, and open communicationTraveled to Germany, learned the importance of teamwork and servant leadershipFaced challenges in marriage, setting boundaries, and balancing career and fatherhoodBecame COO of operations supporting General MotorsJourney of self-discovery and growth, a testament to teamwork and personal growthOffered COO position at General Motors despite initial resistanceTook Ericsson coaching training and integrated new companiesMoved back to the US, took on a global business development role, and became sales of the electronics division.Teamwork, authentic leadership, curiosity, and serving customers are important in a career.Seeking advice, having courageous conversations, and setting healthy boundaries are emphasized.Making hard decisions and ensuring a healthy lifestyle can prevent burnout.Transitioning to a different career is also discussed.The views and opinions expressed on the “Life In Transition” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Life In Transition, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2023.

Ver todos los episodios