Robin Samora
President, Let’s Make You Shine | Boston, MA
“I started beekeeping on a suggestion from my dad. He thought it was a great idea, because my mind was always busy. It was a way to have downtime and not think about work. I now have five hives and we work the bees every two weeks. If we’re lucky, we harvest honey twice a year, in June and September.
“It’s more than an escape. There’s the goodness of honey as an organic substance and the fact that bees are so important for flowers and agriculture. It’s totally back to nature.
“There’s always a queen bee, but, if the queen isn’t doing her job, she’s replaced; we can all be replaced. It takes a team to build a business. One person can lead the way, but you need a team and everyone working together to support you.
“Bees are sensitive, just like people. You have to think about when to bother them when they’re working. You can get so many clues if you just stop, watch, and listen. Just like your business, the more attention you give your beehive, the more it will thrive.”
Chuck Byrge
CEO, Harpeth Capital, LLC | Nashville, TN
“Ultra-endurance cycling has been a tremendous asset to my job—both in terms of keeping me mentally and physically sharp to handle the stress of investment banking. At 50 years old, these rides pose a great challenge and are extremely rewarding when completed.”
Punit Dhillon
CEO, OncoSec Medical | San Diego, CA
“Competing in triathlons has made me a strategist. Whether I’m biking an intense hill or presenting in the boardroom, I’ve trained myself always to be aware of how to perform to the best of my ability, given the current situation. I’m tuned in to when I need to switch gears and make a change.”
Elizabeth Chabner Thompson
Founder & CEO, Best Friends For Life Co. | Scarsdale, NY
“Ultramarathon running gives me the stamina and energy to give 120 percent on the job. Building a meaningful business is not for sprinters; it’s a long and challenging journey, but with each mile rewards do come. The road is full of ups and downs, but I stick with BFFL Co.’s mission to improve the patient experience.”
Mark Woodward
President & CEO, E2open | Foster City, CA
“I’ve been wakeboarding for over 35 years now. Not only is it something I enjoy, but it also continues to fuel my focus and competitive spirit. Staying physically active has always been a priority for me, and wakeboarding has been one of the most enjoyable ways to keep me moving towards this goal.”
Courtney Hurst
Partner, Metis Communications |Boston, MA
“Commercial fishing helps remind me to show up and work hard each day. With fishing, you never know what kind of a day you’ll have. The nets might come up empty, or they might come up so heavy it’s hard to get them on deck. There’s no way of knowing until you’re in the throes of it, so you have be there, ready to work hard.”
