No, I didn’t flunk spelling in school. Life, however, became my greatest teacher, imparting lessons no classroom could ever offer.At 74, when Eric Zuley challenged me to write this chapter in a single night, beginning at 8:30 PM, I was both honored and overwhelmed. It was a tall order to encapsulate a lifetime of lessons in just a few pages. But if there’s one thing life has taught me, it’s this: when faced with a challenge, lean in, embrace the discomfort, and deliver your best. As an owner, equity partner, and Angel Investor in five world-class companies, my life is a balancing act of decisions, leadership, and collaboration. While I once thrived as an individual contributor, my journey into entrepreneurship brought an important revelation: success is not about giving orders; it’s about listening, adapting, and earning the privilege to lead.

Dr. John N. Kalaras, a distinguished UNESCO honoree and one of my closest confidants, gave me advice that still echoes in my mind: “Jim, God gave you two eyes, two ears, and one mouth for a reason—use them proportionately.” This wisdom has guided me for decades, teaching me the power of observation and the importance of hearing others before speaking. Listening was a skill I honed throughout my corporate career. In roles at industry giants like McDonald’s, GE, and Square D, I learned the value of aligning with a team and contributing to a shared vision. I was promoted to National Sales Manager at GE at the ripe age of 31. These experiences laid the foundation for the entrepreneurial journey that would define the second act of my life. I didn’t start my career dreaming of owning businesses or building boards of directors filled with world-class thinkers. Like many, I wanted stability, a regular paycheck, and the satisfaction of making a meaningful contribution. But as the world evolved, I realized that staying stagnant wasn’t an option. Life demanded growth, and I had to rise to meet it.

The events of 9/11 marked a turning point, not just for the world but for my personal and professional life. In its aftermath, a ruling by the International Trade Commission tied to a $4 billion merger abruptly ended my corporate career on November 13, 2001. For the next nine years, I searched for what I called "meaningful employment." Despite my best efforts, I could never reclaim the six-figure salary and bonuses I had once enjoyed. Those years were filled with self-doubt, frustration, and moments of despair. But looking back, I see them as the crucible that forged my resilience and creativity. During this time, I found solace and purpose in volunteering—a theme that would come to define my philosophy on success. Giving back not only kept me grounded but also opened doors to opportunities I could never have imagined.

In 2010, during one of the darkest periods of my life, I founded BudgetVideo4BIZ. To many, it seemed like a desperate hobby—a way to keep myself busy. But to me, it was the beginning of a new chapter. Starting as a sole proprietorship, BudgetVideo4BIZ was born out of necessity, but it grew out of passion. By April 2024, it had evolved into a collaborative enterprise powered by some of the brightest minds I’ve ever worked with. What began as a leap of faith became a testament to the power of perseverance and vision.

Eric Zuley asked me to share the "golden nuggets" that shaped my journey. These are the lessons I’ve learned through triumphs and trials:

A pivotal moment in my journey came when a “celebrity coach” asked me a simple but profound question: “Lonely, isn’t it?” That question forced me to reflect on my life and recognize my own worth. It also reinforced the importance of surrounding myself with people who see and amplify my potential. Today, I’m proud to work with a Board of Directors filled with some of the most brilliant minds I’ve ever encountered. Together, we’ve built a collaborative cooperative that thrives on trust, creativity, and mutual respect.

Losing my dear #41Angel to breast cancer—just one day after her first wedding anniversary—was one of the most heartbreaking experiences of my life. Her passing taught me the fragility of life and the importance of living with purpose. Her memory inspires me to live each day with intention and to pour my heart into the people and causes I care about. It’s why I’m so passionate about creating opportunities for others and why I approach every challenge with gratitude.

The unconventional spelling of success—starting with "V"—is a reminder of the profound impact volunteering has had on my life. Volunteering has been a constant source of growth, even during my most challenging times.

You alone are not the center of the universe. But as part of a team, cause, or movement, you can make a meaningful difference. By giving your time and talents to others, you not only enrich their lives but also discover your own unique value proposition.

I have CONSCIOUSLY chosen to surround myself with the BEST OF THE BEST! And it is a TOTAL BLAST! Having fun should not be an OPTION you can live with.... It should be an INTEGRAL part of everything you do. To achieve it, you must have PEOPLE surrounding you - who you trust, admire, and LOVE being around!

At the heart of my journey is gratitude. It’s what has carried me through setbacks and propelled me toward success. Gratitude is why my definition of success ends with a "G." It’s the foundation of every meaningful accomplishment and the legacy I hope to leave behind.
If you’re reading this, know that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself, expand your vision, and embrace the genius within you. Success begins with a "V" and ends with a "G." Let it be defined by the lives you touch, the challenges you overcome, and the gratitude you carry in your heart.

This is my story, and my wish for you is to find your own path to “Vuccess.” Give back, grow, and live with gratitude. That’s how you create a life that truly matters.

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