Episode 177: Dreams Aren’t a Want — They’re a Need (with Philip Jayhawk Chan)

In this episode, Philip Jayhawk Chan, founder and CEO of his firm and a rising voice in the world of leadership and success, breaks down what it truly takes to build an empire. Philip shares his personal journey from athlete to entrepreneur and explains how he’s built a life around intention, discipline, and strategic self-awareness. He challenges the common “dream big” mindset and reframes it into something far more powerful: your goals aren’t a want — they’re a need. Philip discusses how he approaches his NBA ownership goals with relentless urgency and how he continues to grow as a leader by focusing on skills, systems, and the people he surrounds himself with. He also shares success principles around earning your rewards, mastering self-awareness, and building a life at the intersection of passion and skillset.

Philip Jayhawk Chan

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  1. Convert your wants into needs
    Philip explains that the difference between people who succeed and those who don’t is relentless urgency. Your goals should feel as essential as breathing.
  2. Success requires relentless effort
    Entrepreneurship isn’t a trend — it’s a grind. Philip emphasizes that big dreams require big work, consistency, and resilience through setbacks.
  3. Earn your rewards
    Philip shares how he only rewards himself once he reaches a certain level — not before. This mindset prevents entitlement and keeps you grounded in reality.
  4. Self-awareness is the foundation of success
    If you don’t know yourself, you won’t know your purpose. Self-awareness shapes your goals, your decisions, and your life direction.
  5. Find the overlap between passion and skillset
    Philip suggests starting with interests and letting them evolve into purpose. The most fulfilling life is built where what you’re good at meets what you love.
  6. Surround yourself with the right people
    Philip highlights the importance of your team. If you love who you work with, the work feels effortless — and that’s a key ingredient to long-term success.

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