Dreaming Out Loud, Embracing Discomfort, and Growing Through Curiosity

Carl Winston, PhD describes a career shaped by early ambition, persistence, and a willingness to pursue big goals. He shares how he set his sights at age 15 on becoming a vice president, applied repeatedly to Cornell, and ultimately launched a leadership path that took him into real estate consulting, hotel operations, and executive roles. He explains that openly sharing his goals often led people to help him and that dreaming out loud enables opportunities to emerge.

Carl also reflects on continuous growth, emphasizing curiosity, questioning assumptions, and surrounding himself with people who think differently. He discusses discomfort as an essential driver of progress, describing how he seeks challenges - from mastering AI to launching new academic programs - and reframes obstacles as a “video game” to navigate creatively. He also highlights industry shifts, the importance of remaining relevant, and the need for innovation in hospitality education.

Quotes/Highlights

• "If I'm willing to dream out loud, people are willing to help me."
• "Curiosity is the ultimate tool to advancing oneself professionally."
• "Discomfort is a key success marker for people."
• "I'm just going to keep running, and I'm going to find a way through the maze."
• "If I worked harder than everybody else, I'm going to make it."

Closing Reflection

Carl’s insights reinforce the power of ambition, curiosity, and stepping into discomfort. He encourages embracing challenges, seeking diverse perspectives, and working hard with intention. His example shows that personal success grows from dreaming boldly, learning continuously, and acting with purpose.

‍