Phil Fornaro

Episode 156: LBM Flash Moments: Learning To Think Clearly In Emotional Moments

Leadership & Decision Making /

I reflect on the importance of diversifying life and relationships. I also explore the role of psychology in decision-making, referencing Barry Ritholtz’s book on investment psychology. I emphasize managing emotional reactions in situations such as divorce and investing, advocating for logical thinking and self-awareness. I conclude by encouraging listeners to apply psychological principles to improve […]

Episode 156: LBM Flash Moments: Learning To Think Clearly In Emotional Moments Read More »

Episode 155: Building Relationships, Serving Well, and Seeing the Bigger Picture with Robert Mestman

Relationships & Communication /

Robert Mestman is an Orange County (California) Senior Assistant District Attorney and part of the Executive Management Team for DA Todd Spitzer.  He has been a criminal prosecutor for more than 24 years and also served as a special federal prosecutor and on the Board of Directors of the California District Attorneys Association. Prior to

Episode 155: Building Relationships, Serving Well, and Seeing the Bigger Picture with Robert Mestman Read More »

Episode 154: LBM Flash Moments: Reflection, Discipline, And Getting Out Of Your Own Way

Careers & Professional Growth /

I reflect on the close of the year and share a candid, wide-ranging discussion on growth, self-awareness, and getting out of my own way. Drawing from personal experience, I explore how reflection, discipline, and understanding one’s zone of genius can lead to more meaningful progress. I share a powerful light bulb moment sparked by working

Episode 154: LBM Flash Moments: Reflection, Discipline, And Getting Out Of Your Own Way Read More »

Episode 153: LBM Bonus Episode: “The Light Bulb Moment Thinking” Framework

Business Growth & Strategy /

I reflect on the evolution of my Light Bulb Moments podcast, which began in August 2024 and has since grown significantly. I discuss the importance of data, as highlighted by guests like Dan O’Donohue and Rob Hanna, and I introduce the “Light Bulb Moment Thinking” (LBM) framework. This framework involves seeing problems clearly, simplifying them,

Episode 153: LBM Bonus Episode: “The Light Bulb Moment Thinking” Framework Read More »

Episode 152: Where Ownership Meets Investing, Work, And Life with Bill Florida

Investing & Capital /

William Florida brings more than 22 years of investment experience and currently serves as Managing Director, Research Analyst, and Portfolio Manager of the Partners Fund. He joined the firm in 2007 after a 13-year international executive career in Japan and Europe with pharmaceutical manufacturing companies. Earlier in his career, he spent three years as a

Episode 152: Where Ownership Meets Investing, Work, And Life with Bill Florida Read More »

Episode 151: LBM Flash Moments: Understanding Trust, Honesty, And National Impact

Community, Nonprofits & Social Impact /

I discuss my experiences with the consortium, a group of family offices, wealth managers, private equity lobbyists, and politicians. I recount my recent trip to DC, where I walked to various monuments and engaged in discussions with lobbyists and economists. I emphasize the importance of understanding different perspectives, the impact of agendas, and the necessity

Episode 151: LBM Flash Moments: Understanding Trust, Honesty, And National Impact Read More »

Episode 150: LBM Flash Event: 2025 Waiola Tree Charity Event

Community, Nonprofits & Social Impact /

2025 Waiola Tree Charity Event Where: Waiola Park, 500 South Waiola  Fornaro Law’s tree is on the northwest side of the park.  Fornaro Law needs your help to decorate our tree at Waiola Park.  Fornaro Law will donate a $25 LaGrange Business Association gift card for every ornament placed on our tree and shared on

Episode 150: LBM Flash Event: 2025 Waiola Tree Charity Event Read More »

Episode 149: Igniting Growth Through Energy, Innovation, And Leadership with Vera Gavrilovich

Business Growth & Strategy /

Vera Gavrilovich is a senior marketing and growth executive with broad experience in subscription services and renewable energy. She has scaled national brands, built strong teams, and delivered results for both Fortune 500 companies and startups. Vera blends data-driven strategy with creativity and customer focus to spark innovation, boost efficiency, and deliver growth. Why This

Episode 149: Igniting Growth Through Energy, Innovation, And Leadership with Vera Gavrilovich Read More »

Episode 148: LBM Flash Moments: From Distraction to Discipline

Careers & Professional Growth /

I discuss the challenge of focusing on enjoyable tasks despite being distracted by less enjoyable ones. I share my experience from a CEO group meeting where members discuss personal and professional challenges. I aim to shift my focus from 90% on unenjoyable tasks to 50% and am working on prioritizing joyful activities. I highlight the

Episode 148: LBM Flash Moments: From Distraction to Discipline Read More »

Episode 147: Changing Culture By Engaging The People Who Shape It with Paul Vragel

Leadership & Decision Making /

Paul Vragel founded 4aBetterBusiness 25+ years ago to help companies develop immediate, enthusiastic buy-in to change and achieve large-scale improvements in productivity and growth. Paul has led (in Interim COO and consulting roles) collaborative achievement of transformational improvement in company operating and financial performance with privately held companies (including private equity) and mid-market units of

Episode 147: Changing Culture By Engaging The People Who Shape It with Paul Vragel Read More »