Jared Clarke is a Texas-based entrepreneur and the driving force behind Forza Resources, a company specializing in land management, GIS mapping, and database management within the oil and gas industry. With a footprint spanning multiple states, Jared’s data management and asset evaluation expertise has positioned him as a pivotal figure in the industry. His journey from a young professional to a seasoned leader in energy services is a story of success and a testament to his resilience, foresight, and unwavering commitment to innovation.
Interview with Jared Clarke
How do you define success, and how long did it take you to find it?
Success isn’t just about making your business successful; it’s about positively impacting your industry and finding a good balance between work and personal life. When I started Forza Resources, I was focused entirely on growing the company, often neglecting other important parts of my life. My main goal was to make the business thrive and contribute to the oil and gas industry.
As the company grew, I realized that true success isn’t just about professional achievements; it’s also about enjoying your personal life. Over time, I found a better balance, allowing me to spend more quality time with my family and friends. Family is the most important thing to me, and I value the moments I can share with them.
I think many entrepreneurs struggle with finding this balance, and without it, they might never feel fully successful. You can build a great company, but if you don’t take care of your personal relationships and well-being, you might feel like something is missing. For me, success is about balancing your career accomplishments with personal happiness. It’s about creating something meaningful at work while also having the time and energy to enjoy the people and moments that matter most in your life.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
A good entrepreneur isn’t just someone with a great idea or the motivation to start a business; they are, above all, a leader. Leadership is often overlooked in entrepreneurship, but it’s what truly sets successful businesses apart. Starting a company is one thing, but growing it, guiding it through challenges, and inspiring others to help it succeed requires strong leadership.
One aspect of leadership is building a team that shares your passion. It’s not just about hiring people with the right skills; it’s about finding those who are just as excited about the company’s vision as you are. When you have a team that’s equally committed, they’re not just employees—they’re partners in your journey, helping to drive the company forward.
As a leader, your job is to help your team improve. This means recognizing their strengths, encouraging their growth, and holding them accountable when needed. Accountability keeps standards high and promotes continuous improvement. Creating a culture where everyone strives to do their best and values constructive feedback is crucial.
When I first started, I didn’t fully appreciate the importance of listening to others, especially those with more experience. I was focused on my own vision, which sometimes caused me to miss valuable insights. Over time, I learned that being a good leader means being a good listener. Listening to different perspectives helps you make better decisions and avoid mistakes.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
Starting in the oil and gas industry wasn’t easy, especially when it came to earning clients’ trust. In this field, reputation is everything, and clients want to work with someone they can rely on. As a newcomer, I had to prove that my company could deliver reliable services constantly. It wasn’t just about having the right skills; it was about building relationships and a reputation for quality work. Competing against long-established firms made this even harder.
Money was another challenge. We needed funds to invest in the technology and tools required to meet client expectations. These tools, like advanced mapping and data management software, are expensive but essential. Finding the money to make these investments was a constant struggle in the beginning. We had to plan carefully, seek out investors who believed in us, and make tough choices about where to spend our limited resources.
These difficulties motivated me to help start Young Professionals in Energy (YPE) chapters in Fort Worth and College Station. I knew that having access to networking and mentorship opportunities early on would have made my journey easier. YPE offers young professionals the chance to build the connections and trust they need to succeed, without facing the same challenges I did.
What’s one industry trend that excites you?
Technology is making land management and mapping much easier and more efficient. We can make better decisions and manage resources more accurately with tools like data analytics and real-time mapping. This is a growing area with a lot of potential for new ideas and improvements.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self that it’s okay to fail because that’s how you learn. It’s easy to feel down when things don’t work out, but every mistake is a chance to get better. I’d also stress the importance of making connections and building relationships early. Be around people who inspire, challenge, and support you.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
One habit that really helps me is balancing work and personal life. I make sure to spend quality time with family and friends, which gives me the energy and clear mind I need for work. Whether it’s a motorcycle ride around Fort Worth or a quiet evening at home, these activities help me unwind and return to work more focused and productive. I also keep up with industry trends to stay ahead. By balancing my personal time with learning, I bring fresh ideas and a new perspective to my work.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
Staying active is one of the best ways I manage stress. Whether it’s going for a run, hiking, or doing a quick workout, physical activity helps me clear my mind and feel better. It lifts my mood and gives me a mental break, allowing me to return to work with a fresh perspective. Staying active is key to keeping both my mind and body healthy, especially in a tough industry like ours.
I also rely on my co-founder for support. We’ve built a strong partnership based on trust, so I can delegate tasks when I’m feeling overwhelmed. Knowing I have someone to count on gives me peace of mind and keeps the business running smoothly, even when things get tough. This teamwork is crucial for managing stress and maintaining balance in my work and personal life.
Takeaway
Before starting Forza Resources, Jared gained valuable experience in various oil and gas roles, focusing on land management and planning. His education at Texas A&M University and Sam Houston State University in human resources, criminology, and history adds depth to his professional skills.
Jared is also committed to giving back and shaping the energy industry’s future. He helped start Young Professionals in Energy chapters in Tyler and College Station, offering networking and growth opportunities for future industry work on the Fort Worth ADAM group board until 2023, which highlights his dedication to the industry’s progress and sustainability.
Colorado service advisor Wyatt Leonard offers useful advice for entrepreneurs at any stage. Wyatt’s journey—from being the top student at Justice High School to teaching himself day trading and now working as a Service Advisor at Valley Subaru of Longmont—shows his persistence and growth.
Wyatt’s experience is especially helpful for new entrepreneurs or those looking to improve their businesses. He highlights the importance of having a growth mindset and staying strong when faced with setbacks. His experiences in day trading teach that failures can be valuable learning opportunities. Wyatt shares how he overcame self-doubt and adjusted to new challenges, offering tips on handling uncertainty and staying motivated.
He also stresses the value of daily planning and time management, which can help entrepreneurs be more productive. Wyatt’s examples of balancing work with his personal passions, like sustainable technology and outdoor activities, show that having interests outside of work can lead to greater satisfaction and success. This interview is a great read for anyone looking to boost their entrepreneurial drive and tackle challenges with resilience.
Interview with Wyatt Leonard
How do you define success, and how long did it take you to find it?
Success means growing and finding balance. It’s not a final goal but an ongoing journey of reaching personal and professional milestones while staying true to your values. It took me several years to understand this. After graduating as valedictorian from Justice High School and getting into day trading, I learned that success isn’t just about making money—it’s about always learning, facing challenges, and growing from them.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
Being an entrepreneur means you need to be tough, flexible, and always willing to learn. After graduating high school as valedictorian, I was excited to dive straight into my career. I thought I was ready for the business world, but I soon realized I needed more experience. That’s when I decided to go for a degree, and it made a big difference.
Taking that extra time gave me the knowledge and maturity I needed. As I gained more experience, I became more patient and better at understanding people. Connecting with others, whether they’re customers, team members, or partners, is just as important as being adaptable and resilient. My education and personal growth helped me handle the challenges of entrepreneurship and shaped me into a well-rounded professional.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
When I started day trading, I had a lot to learn. At first, I was excited to own shares of companies I liked. During the COVID-19 pandemic, MEME stocks became popular, driven by social media and online discussions. Many people, with the help of stimulus checks, jumped into the market, seeing opportunities that experienced investors sometimes missed.
It was an exciting time, but it also showed me how unpredictable the stock market can be. I quickly learned that while some trades can bring great highs, others can be disappointing. I had to better manage risks and not let emotions drive my decisions.
What’s one trend that excites you?
The growth of sustainable technology, especially electric cars (EVs), is exciting. EVs do more than save money on gas and cut emissions; they represent a big step toward cleaner and more efficient transportation.
One of the biggest benefits of EVs is the money you can save. Many governments offer tax breaks and rebates, making EVs more affordable. Plus, EVs have fewer moving parts, so they cost less to maintain, meaning fewer trips to the mechanic.
EVs also provide a smoother, quieter ride, which can make driving more enjoyable. Their quick acceleration makes for a fun and responsive drive.
Subaru has made strong progress in the EV market. They’ve developed electric cars that perform well and emphasize responsible practices. Subaru not only offers great vehicles but also cares about the environment and communities. This focus on doing good makes Subaru a company that aligns with my values.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self not to be scared of failing. Mistakes might seem like setbacks, but they actually help you learn and grow. Every time you mess up, you discover something new and get stronger. Challenges teach you things that success alone can’t, and they help you think of new ideas and solve problems better.
Instead of seeing failure as something bad, look at it as part of the journey. Mistakes can push you forward rather than hold you back.
I’d also remind myself to be patient. Growth takes time and is full of ups and downs. But the journey itself can be the most rewarding part. Overcoming challenges brings valuable lessons, often more important than the end result. Patience helps you appreciate your progress and keeps you focused on your goals, even when things get tough.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
I always plan my day the night before, setting easy-to-reach goals to keep me focused. I use time-blocking, which means giving each task its own time slot. This helps me manage my work without feeling too busy. Staying organized makes my job in the service industry much easier and less stressful.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
One of my favorite ways to do this is by traveling. Traveling lets me escape my routine, see new things, and spend time with loved ones.
I also make sure to stay active. Whether it’s weightlifting, paddleboarding, or skiing, staying physically fit helps me clear my mind. This has been important to me ever since playing football in high school, where I learned to balance fitness with schoolwork. Staying active helps me manage stress and stay focused.
Taking breaks through travel and exercise helps me come back to work refreshed and with a clear mind. Sometimes, all it takes is a change of scenery and a little movement to handle challenges better.
Takeaway
After finishing high school as the top student, earned a degree from Front Range Community College while exploring day trading and investing.
Wyatt is now a Service Advisor at Valley Subaru of Longmont, helping customers with their vehicle maintenance needs. He uses his problem-solving skills daily while also making time for his personal interests. His interview highlights the importance of good time and energy management for entrepreneurs.
John Ikhaml has established a noteworthy career in the manufacturing industry, leading teams to enhance operations and safety. He began his career as an Engineering Intern at Sheldahl Inc., where he quickly implemented process improvements that foreshadowed his future success. John holds a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology from Minnesota State University, Mankato, where he worked on a fuel-efficient engine project.
Since 2017, he has served as the Senior Production Manager at Proto Labs Inc., where he has improved efficiency and innovation through effective management practices. Before this role, he played a key role in improving production and safety at The Bergquist Company and Boston Scientific. He earned a “Lean Leader” certification.
Interview with John Ikhaml
How do you define success, and how long did it take to find it?
Success to me means consistently achieving favorable outcomes while making a meaningful impact on the lives of others. It’s about hitting targets and fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement. Finding success is an ongoing journey that started early in my career and continues to evolve as I encounter new challenges and opportunities.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
A good entrepreneur possesses resilience, adaptability, and a keen sense of vision. They must pivot when necessary and remain focused on their goals despite setbacks. Effective communication and leadership skills are also crucial, as they need to inspire and guide their teams toward achieving common objectives.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
One of the biggest challenges was earning the trust and respect of more experienced colleagues. As a young engineer, I had to prove my capabilities and demonstrate that my ideas could bring tangible improvements. Additionally, navigating the complexities of manufacturing processes and implementing changes without disrupting operations required a lot of learning and adaptation.
What is one current trend that excites you?
I am excited about the advancement of automation and intelligent manufacturing technologies. These innovations can potentially revolutionize the industry by increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and improving product quality. Embracing these technologies allows us to stay competitive and meet the ever-evolving market demands.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to be patient and embrace every learning opportunity, no matter how small. It’s essential to stay curious and open-minded, as the knowledge and skills you acquire will be invaluable. Also, never underestimate the power of networking and building strong professional relationships.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Maintaining a structured daily routine is key to my productivity. I prioritize tasks, set clear goals, and allocate specific time blocks for different activities. This helps me stay focused and ensures that I make steady progress on various projects without getting overwhelmed.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When I feel overwhelmed, I take a step back to reassess my priorities and break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Taking short breaks to clear my mind and engaging in physical activities like a quick walk can also help me regain focus and reduce stress.
Takeaway
John Ikhaml’s journey in manufacturing showcases the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, and effective leadership. His contributions to improving production processes and enhancing safety standards have significantly impacted the industry. As he continues to lead and innovate at Proto Labs Inc., John remains committed to driving progress and fostering a culture of excellence in manufacturing.
About John Ikhaml
John is the Senior Production Manager at Proto Labs Inc., where he has improved efficiency and creativity by being a good leader. John has a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Engineering Technology from Minnesota State University, Mankato.
Nikhil Mayakuntla is a highly experienced Java Developer who has worked in the field for over nine years. Originally from West Des Moines, IA, Nikhil holds a Master’s degree in Computer Software Engineering from the University of Houston Clear Lake. He has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Pepsico, Walmart, Home Depot, GAP, and CIOX Health, where he has made significant contributions to various aspects of the tech industry. Nikhil is known for his innovative approach and expertise, and his work has left a lasting impact on the world of technology.
Interview with Nikhil Mayakuntla
How do you define success and how long did it take you to find it?
To me, it’s not just about reaching specific milestones or attaining certain positions. Success is a journey that involves continuous growth, learning, and making a positive impact in the world around me. It’s about achieving personal fulfillment while contributing to something meaningful. Along the way, I’ve set goals, worked hard, faced challenges, and celebrated victories. And with each step, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of what success truly means to me.
Q: What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
I believe a successful business owner needs to have a mix of different qualities, such as being able to see the big picture, handling tough times, being flexible, and taking smart risks. A clear vision helps them to spot opportunities that others might not notice, and being tough helps them to deal with the difficulties that come with running a business. Adapting to changes in the marketplace is also essential, so they can change direction when needed and stay up-to-date. Finally, being unafraid of taking calculated risks, combined with careful thought and planning, can result in new ideas and progress.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
At the beginning of my journey, one of the biggest challenges I faced was gaining experience and establishing credibility in the industry. Coming from a diverse academic background, I had to work extra hard to prove myself and earn the trust of my peers and employers. Additionally, adapting to the rapidly changing technological landscape and staying updated with the latest trends and advancements presented its own set of challenges. However, through perseverance, dedication, and a continuous thirst for knowledge, I was able to overcome these obstacles and carve out a successful career path.
What’s one trend that excites you?
One trend that excites me is the increasing adoption of cloud-native technologies and the shift towards serverless architectures. This trend not only offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness but also empowers developers to focus more on building innovative solutions rather than managing infrastructure. As someone deeply involved in cloud-based application development, I find this evolution fascinating and look forward to exploring its full potential.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell them that it’s important to not be afraid of failure. Each time we fail, we learn something new that can help us grow and become successful in the future. When I was starting my career, I would get discouraged by setbacks and failures, but looking back, I now see that each experience helped me learn and grow. I would also tell my younger self to keep learning and stay curious, and to find people who can offer guidance and support along the way.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
One habit that has been instrumental in boosting my productivity is effective time management. I make it a point to prioritize tasks, set clear goals, and allocate dedicated time blocks for different activities. Additionally, I leverage productivity tools and techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique and task batching, to maintain focus and maximize efficiency throughout the day.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When I find myself feeling overwhelmed or unfocused, I take a step back and practice mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to center myself and regain clarity. I also find it helpful to engage in physical activity, whether it’s going for a walk, hitting the gym, or practicing yoga, as it helps me clear my mind and re-energize. Additionally, I make sure to take regular breaks and disconnect from work to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance.
About Nikhil Mayakuntla
Nikhil Mayakuntla, from West Des Moines, IA, is a seasoned Java Developer with a Master’s in Computer Software Engineering from the University of Houston Clear Lake. With over nine years of expertise, he’s been pivotal at Pepsico in Dallas, TX, spearheading cloud-based applications using Java17 and Spring Boot 3.1. Previously, he led initiatives at Walmart and Home Depot, enhancing logistics and vendor interactions. Nikhil’s prowess extends to full-stack development, with notable contributions at GAP and CIOX Health. Based in Atlanta, GA, Nikhil continues to shape innovative solutions in the tech realm.
Bayan Jaber is known for her expertise, leadership, and advocacy. Located in Summerville, SC, She has an excellent educational background from Wayne State University and Saint Elizabeth University. Her journey in the field has been marked by dedication, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Bayan is the Regional Clinical Director at Discovery ABA Therapy, NC East Region. Her contributions go beyond clinical practice and encompass mentorship, outreach, and promotion of diversity and inclusion within the profession. Join us as we delve into Bayan’s insights on success, entrepreneurship, overcoming challenges, and maintaining productivity amidst the demands of a dynamic field.
Interview with Bayan Jaber
How do you define success, and how long did it take you to find it?
Success is not limited to achieving personal goals but extends to creating a positive impact in the lives of others. It represents an ongoing professional and personal growth journey while contributing positively to the communities we serve. In this regard, success is marked by milestones, setbacks, and constant refinement of one’s vision and purpose. As a practitioner and leader in behavior analysis, I have found that success is a gradual process of discovery, learning from experiences, and evolving as a professional.
What are the qualities of a good entrepreneur?
A good entrepreneur in behavior analysis embodies qualities such as resilience, adaptability, vision, and empathy. They can identify opportunities for innovation and growth while staying true to the core principles of applied behavior analysis. Practical communication skills in interpersonal relationships and strategic planning are crucial for building collaborative partnerships and driving positive change. A commitment to ethical practice and continuous professional development is paramount for long-term success in this dynamic field.
What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?
Like many professionals in behavior analysis, I faced various challenges at the outset of my career. Establishing credibility and building a solid reputation in the field required dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to learn from successes and setbacks. Navigating the complex landscape of regulations, funding sources, and interdisciplinary collaboration posed significant hurdles. Still, each challenge presented an opportunity for growth and refinement of my behavior analyst and leader skills.
What’s one trend that excites you?
One trend that excites me is the growing emphasis on technology-driven solutions and data analytics in behavior analysis. Advances in telehealth, wearable devices, and data visualization tools hold immense potential for enhancing the accessibility, efficiency, and effectiveness of behavioral interventions. By harnessing the power of technology, we can extend the reach of behavior analysis services, tailor interventions to individual needs, and empower clients to achieve meaningful outcomes in diverse settings.
What advice would you give your younger self?
If I could advise my younger self, I would emphasize the importance of resilience, self-compassion, and embracing uncertainty. The journey of professional growth is not linear, and setbacks are inevitable along the way. Instead of dwelling on failures or setbacks, focus on learning from them, adapting to change, and staying true to your values and principles. Remember to prioritize self-care, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and surround yourself with mentors and peers who inspire and support your journey.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
One habit that helps me stay productive is setting clear goals and prioritizing tasks based on their impact and urgency. I can maintain focus and momentum toward achieving my objectives by breaking down larger objectives into smaller, actionable steps. Regular reflection and time management strategies, such as the Pomodoro Technique, help me optimize productivity while preventing burnout and overwhelm.
When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused, what do you do?
When I feel overwhelmed or unfocused, stepping back and engaging in activities promoting mindfulness and relaxation is helpful. Whether taking a short walk outdoors, practicing deep breathing exercises, or engaging in a creative hobby, these moments of self-care allow me to recharge and regain perspective. I also value seeking support from colleagues, mentors, or peers who can provide guidance, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on the challenges.
Key Takeaways
In improving behavior, Bayan Jaber’s story shows us how important it is to keep trying, be creative, and always do our best. She is an excellent example of someone who believes that everyone should be included, and she encourages others to learn and grow in their profession. Bayan is making a significant impact on the future of her field, and her work will help people for many years to come.
Bayan Jaber
Summerville, South Carolina
Bayan Jaber is a dedicated Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a rich educational background from Wayne State University and Saint Elizabeth University. Licensed in Michigan and a member of COBA, Bayan excels in VB-MAPP, ABLLS-R, and AFLS assessments. As the Regional Clinical Director at Discovery ABA Therapy, NC East Region, Bayan leads clinical supervision and case management, enhancing the service area through strategic outreach.
