How to Lead Yourself First: The Hidden Key to Growing a Successful Business with Gary Montalvo

What business challenges are you seeing in your environment right now? Reach out at  https://iteecmd.net/contact-us
Let’s connect and talk through your unique situation together.

 

Connect with Justin:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-itee-walker/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justiniteewalker

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/multiversetechnologypodcast

 

In this episode of the Multiverse Leadership Podcast, Justin ITee Walker interviews Roman Golshteyn, founder of The Computer Guy LLC, a cybersecurity-focused IT company. Roman shares his journey from a young tech enthusiast to a cybersecurity expert, emphasizing the importance of proactive cybersecurity measures for businesses. 

 

The conversation delves into the challenges of educating clients about cybersecurity, the necessity of leadership buy-in, and the evolving landscape of threats, particularly with the rise of AI. Roman highlights the shared responsibility of cybersecurity between IT professionals and organizational leadership, advocating for a culture of security within businesses.

 

What if the next big business breakthrough you need… is actually you? In this powerful episode, leadership and mindset coach Gary Montalvo shares what really happens behind the scenes of entrepreneurship. From starting his career as an art director at Sony to finding his calling through coaching, Gary opens up about burnout, fear, self-doubt, and the messy, unseen parts of growth. He explains how leadership isn't just about tools and strategy, it's about self-awareness, accountability, and owning your personal journey. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling past six figures, this conversation will help you reconnect with your purpose, build resilience, and stop being so damn hard on yourself. A must-listen for anyone who's ever felt like giving up.

 

Connect with Gary: 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garymontalvo/

Website: https://www.garymontalvo.com/

 

Chapters:
(1:00) Gary’s creative beginnings and corporate burnout
(4:15) Why changing your job won’t fix your life
(5:46) Discovering coaching and finding purpose
(8:24) Entrepreneurship is not just business—it’s personal growth
(10:07) Leadership traits that actually move the needle
(13:10) Social media vs reality: the highlight reel illusion
(16:07) How to find purpose in any challenge
(21:05) Growth doesn’t require being an entrepreneur
(25:03) Why most of us repeat the same mistakes
(26:52) Building better habits with grace and consistency
(29:31) Learning new skills without beating yourself up
(33:39) The limits of AI and the importance of real coaching
(35:00) Knowing your triggers and personal needs
(37:44) Warning signs of a bad coach
(41:04) Authenticity over manipulation in leadership
(45:25) One guest’s near-death moment that changed everything
(47:01) Coaches don’t have the answers—they help you find yours
(54:03) The moment Gary stopped hiding on stage
(59:01) Final message: Stop judging yourself. Give yourself grace.
(1:00:00) What it really means to be a human being