Eric Olson, the Founder and CEO of Global Financial Impact (GFI), knows that success isn’t just about perseverance—it’s about knowing when to pivot.
Long before building one of the fastest-growing organizations in the financial services industry, Olson faced a defining moment that tested his resilience: giving up his football career. As captain of the San Jose State football team, he had big dreams on the field, but injuries forced him to make a tough call.
“It’s always great to have a dream and go 100% on it, like I did in football,” Olson shared on the Corporate Competitor Podcast. “But, God forbid, it doesn’t work out. I got hurt. I blew out my shoulder a couple of times against Ohio State and the Florida Gators. I was like, ‘You know what? Let me pivot.’”
Instead of dwelling on disappointment, Olson chose to view his past experiences as preparation for his next chapter. He leaned into the discipline, teamwork, and mental toughness he had built on the field and applied them to his career in business.
“What if your entire life, everything you’ve done, prepared you for this next moment?” Olson asked. “That’s what I convinced myself. All my sports background, those double days and those 5 a.m. lifting sessions. All of that prepared me for the next moment and the next venture in GFI.”
In this episode, you will learn:
"Don is one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. I’ve known him for a long time and every time we talk I walk away wiser and more inspired. He is the best in the business at teaching you a skill – storytelling – that will last you a lifetime.”
“The ability for athletes to get hired is carried on through you because you are putting out the message that lessons learned from sports are important in life. It is embedded in this podcast, what you’re doing is significant.”
We speak the same language. I am inspired by the stories you tell, the people you have met, and the things you’ve done. Those of us that are competitors like to follow others that have been down that journey, so it is always fun talking to you!”
“Many of the leaders I have worked with were excellent athletes, and I think there is a direct correlation. You’re one of the few people that really has pursued this study, Don. Keep up the great work. What you are doing really makes a difference.”
“Don, you have mastered the skill of interviewing and asking great questions. That is a great skill all leaders need in order to understand their team members’ thought processes.”
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