What if getting fired—or dropping out—wasn’t a setback, but the start of something bigger?

In this episode, we dive into the story of Jeff Burgess, who went from a college dropout with no direction to the founder of a multimillion-dollar tech company. His journey isn’t about luck—it’s about grit, self-belief, and learning how to sell yourself long before selling any product.

From his father’s tough-love wake-up call to building a billion-dollar business without a degree, Jeff shares the lessons that schools don’t teach: how to bet on yourself, lead with confidence, and turn every “no” into a new opportunity. Whether you’re chasing your first internship or redefining your path, this episode will remind you that your biggest asset isn’t your résumé—it’s your mindset.

For more of Jeff Burgess, check out his latest book, It Worked For Me: My Life Seizing Opportunity and Building Success, and view his work at https://jeffburgessauthor.com/.

College applications don’t have to control your life.

If you’re anything like me, this season feels overwhelming — essays, deadlines, decisions, and the constant chatter of where everyone else is applying. It’s easy to feel like your future depends on every choice you make right now. But what if it doesn’t?

In this solo episode, I share my honest reflections as a high school senior in the middle of it all. From the late-night worries to the unexpected advice I’ve picked up along the way, I’ll take you behind the scenes of what it really feels like to navigate this process. My hope is that you leave not only with more clarity, but also with a little less weight on your shoulders and a reminder that this journey is about you.

00:35 The Stress of College Applications

01:18 Five Key Tips for College Applications

02:11 Tip 1

06:44 Tip 2

09:10 Tip 3

12:22 Tip 4

14:17 Tip 5

16:03 Recap and Final Thoughts

What really drives a career forward—raw talent, perfect timing, or sheer determination?

In this episode of The LIV Lab, Dr. Daniela Seabra Oliveira reveals how all three shaped her journey from a math-loving student in Brazil to receiving the Presidential Early Career Award at the White House.

Daniela opens up about the challenges of moving to a new country, navigating language barriers, and finding her footing in a male-dominated field. Along the way, she shares why passion often follows talent, how luck and serendipity quietly influence success, and why the early years of your career are the best time to take bold risks.

Her story is both inspiring and practical—showing that true drive comes from within, and that embracing uncertainty can unlock opportunities you never imagined. Whether you’re exploring careers in STEM, considering graduate school, or simply searching for direction, this conversation will push you to rethink what it means to build a meaningful path.

00:00 Introduction: Challenging the Passion Narrative

00:58 Meet Dr. Daniella Seabra: A Journey of Passion and Drive

02:18 High School Days in Brazil: Discovering a Love for Math and Logic

06:24 University Life: From Undergraduate to Master's

09:08 First Industry Role: Leading a Team in Brazil

13:38 Transition to the US: Pursuing a PhD at UC Davis

25:07 The Role of Luck in Success

26:02 Finding Mentors and Role Models

27:38 PhD Journey and Research Focus

29:09 Teaching at Bowden College

33:03 Receiving the Presidential Early Career Award

37:37 Transition to University of Florida

42:32 Advice for Aspiring PhD Students

47:37 Current Role at the National Science Foundation

50:19 Reflections and Career Advice