The Channel Crosser - Sandy Wollman - Chief Endurance Officer - Episode # 058

Welcome to another captivating episode! Today’s guest is a leader and investor! Introducing Sandy Wollman, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Westchester Angels. Sandy partners with host Gregory McDonough to share his inspiring journey of swimming across the English Channel, the importance of determination, and advice for both entrepreneurs seeking funding and individuals interested in making angel investments. He also delves into the mental and physical challenges of swimming the channel, emphasizing the power of human spirit and the endless possibilities when one pushes their limits.

Takeaways:
  • Sandy was deeply passionate about endurance sports, particularly triathlons, for about 20 years. After completing three Ironman competitions, he decided to retire from the sport and shifted focus to personal life, including getting married.
  • Sandy reflects on having a mindset that operates at extreme levels—either fully committed or not at all. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, even when the chances of success are slim, and highlights that attempting and overcoming significant challenges, like swimming the English Channel, fosters an open mind and confidence.
  • Success in his endeavors was not solely due to personal effort; Sandy acknowledges the crucial support from his partner, Lisa, indicating that having a strong support system is vital for achieving challenging goals.
  • At Westchester Angels, Sandy’s investment group, the focus is on supporting local startups, emphasizing the importance of transparency and personal connection in pitching and investing. They prioritize clear communication and honesty, valuing potential and the spirit of learning and growth in startups.
  • There are no limits to the human spirit. Sandy underscores this by sharing experiences of extreme endurance feats, emphasizing that persistence, desire, and the ability to push through difficult moments are crucial for success, both in sports and in life.
Quote of the Show:
  • "Success or failure could be determined by a matter of minutes." - Sandy Wollman 
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Chief Endurance Officer is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

Creators and Guests

Gregory McDonough
Host
Gregory McDonough
Greg McDonough is a seasoned executive who has owned and operated businesses in the professional services sector, navigating them through both good and tough times. He brings his personal experience of knowing what it’s like to be ‘in the owner’s seat’ when working with clients, taking time to ask the questions others may not.
The Channel Crosser - Sandy Wollman - Chief Endurance Officer - Episode # 058
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