1147: Using your PURPOSE to fuel your persistence, innovation, and LEGACY w/ Sergio Sotelo

Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur | Start and Grow Your Own Business

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16d ago 32:41

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In this episode, Brian sits down with Sergio Sotelo, an experienced IT executive, entrepreneur, and AI strategist. Sergio shares his remarkable 24+ year journey from software engineering to becoming the CEO of Euler Innovations, a technology firm focused on revolutionizing the travel industry with AI. A former IBM executive, Sergio led the IBM Watson AI business in Latin America and has spoken in front of the president of Peru. Now, he’s building a groundbreaking travel solution while navigating a major life change—moving his family and business to the United States. Sergio’s insights on purpose, risk, and legacy are packed with valuable lessons for entrepreneurs at every stage.

💡 What You'll Take Away For YOUR Business

🚀 Why understanding your purpose will drive long-term success in business
🤖 How to build AI-driven solutions that enhance customer experience and trust
💡 The power of product-market validation—and how Sergio tested his idea in Peru before scaling
💪 How to balance calculated risk-taking with wise decision-making
🌍 Why thinking globally from the start gives you a competitive edge
💼 How Sergio navigated business growth while adapting to personal and family changes
⚡ Why building legacy is about more than business—it’s about impact and preparing future generations

📝 About Sergio Sotelo

Sergio Sotelo is an experienced IT executive, entrepreneur, and AI strategist with over 24 years of expertise in sales, management, business development, and IT innovation. He specializes in AI-driven business models, digital transformation, and startup growth strategies.

A former IBM executive, Sergio successfully led, scaled, and 'nailed' the IBM Watson AI business in Latin America. His work has earned him multiple prestigious recognitions, including the IBM 100 Percent Club Award, he was recently awarded the US EB2 NIW Visa, and recognized and featured in Marquis Who's Who in America for his contributions to AI and IT innovation.

Currently, he is the CEO of Euler Innovations, a technology firm based in Virginia. He also serves as a board director, mentor, and advisor to startups across the U.S. and internationally. He holds an MBA from the University of Lima, a Master in Management from Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, and has completed executive programs at MIT and Harvard.

🎯 Sergio’s BEST Piece of Advice for Wantrepreneurs and Entrepreneurs

"Don't be afraid to pursue big dreams. If you’re aligned with your purpose, you have the potential to make it happen."

📢 Memorable Quotes

"If you know your purpose, you have the potential to achieve it." – Sergio Sotelo
"Don't let anyone kill your dream. If you're built with a purpose, you have the power to make it happen." – Sergio Sotelo
"Success without a successor is failure." – Sergio Sotelo

💡 Actionable Takeaways

✅ Identify your core purpose—it will guide your decisions and keep you motivated.
✅ Test your business idea in a smaller market before scaling globally.
✅ Approach risk strategically—consult trusted advisors and adjust based on feedback.
✅ Integrate AI and digital transformation to create more efficient, customer-focused solutions.
✅ Balance work and life—build a business that supports your lifestyle and long-term goals.

🔗 Links

Chapters

1. 1147: Using your PURPOSE to fuel your persistence, innovation, and LEGACY w/ Sergio Sotelo (00:00:00)

2. Introduction to Sergio Sotelo (00:00:14)

3. Starting as a Programmer to IBM Executive (00:07:08)

4. Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship and Resilience (00:14:50)

5. Rebecca: Building a Travel Tech Solution (00:19:07)

6. Travel's Influence on Entrepreneurial Thinking (00:25:00)

7. Building Legacy Beyond Personal Success (00:28:45)

8. Calculated Risk-Taking in Entrepreneurship (00:33:26)

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