A Conversation with Tyger Cho: From Goldman Sachs to Building Bridges for the Korean Diaspora

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In this episode, I had the pleasure of taking a walk and talk with Tyger Cho, a fascinating individual who has made some bold career moves and is now embarking on an exciting new venture in Korea. Tyger's journey from Goldman Sachs to his current entrepreneurial pursuits offers valuable insights into career pivots, the importance of following your passions, and the power of building communities. Our conversation meandered through topics like homeschooling, the value of podcasting, and Tyger's vision for connecting the Korean diaspora. Our chat was filled with thought-provoking ideas and personal reflections that shed light on the evolving landscape of work, identity, and cultural connection in our globalized world.

Some key takeaways from our conversation:

1. The power of non-traditional education: Tyger's experience with homeschooling during his formative years gave him a unique perspective on learning and personal development. This unconventional approach to education instilled in him an appreciation for hands-on experiences and self-directed learning, which has influenced his career choices and entrepreneurial spirit. It highlights the potential benefits of diverse educational approaches in fostering creativity and independent thinking.

2. The importance of challenging career norms: Tyger's decision to leave a prestigious position at Goldman Sachs demonstrates the value of questioning established career paths. His journey illustrates that success isn't always about climbing the corporate ladder, but rather about finding fulfillment and purpose in one's work. This shift in perspective can lead to more meaningful and satisfying career choices, even if they involve taking risks.

3. Podcasting as a tool for personal growth and community building: Tyger's passion for podcasting has not only been a source of learning and inspiration but has also become a powerful networking tool. By engaging in deep conversations with guests, he has built meaningful relationships and even facilitated business connections. This underscores the potential of podcasting as a medium for personal development and community creation.

4. The untapped potential of diaspora communities: Tyger's current project focusing on connecting the Korean diaspora highlights an important opportunity in our globalized world. By creating platforms for dispersed communities to connect, share experiences, and support each other, we can foster cultural understanding and create new opportunities for collaboration and growth.

5. The value of first-principles thinking in career and life decisions: Throughout our conversation, Tyger emphasized the importance of questioning assumptions and thinking from first principles. This approach has allowed him to make unconventional choices and pursue paths that align more closely with his values and interests. It serves as a reminder to continually reassess our goals and methods rather than simply following established norms.

6. The impact of exposure to diverse perspectives: Tyger's experiences, from his homeschooling background to his time at Stanford and Goldman Sachs, have given him a unique vantage point. This diversity of experiences has shaped his worldview and fueled his desire to create bridges between different communities. It underscores the importance of seeking out varied experiences and perspectives in shaping our understanding of the world and our place in it.

7. The role of personal agency in shaping one's path: Tyger's story is a testament to the power of taking control of one's own journey. By actively seeking out opportunities, questioning the status quo, and being willing to take calculated risks, he has carved out a unique path that aligns with his values and interests. This serves as an inspiration for others to take a more active role in shaping their own careers and lives.