In this episode, Carly Pepin sits down with Mike Konrad, founder and CEO of Aqueous Technologies, to explore the unexpected lessons that come with entrepreneurship. Once a self-described “reluctant entrepreneur,” Mike took a massive leap to create a product his former employer didn’t believe in. What began as an ego-fueled mission soon evolved into a profound journey of humility, leadership, and conscious marketing. Through candid stories and powerful reflections, Mike shares how he transformed from a headstrong engineer into a purpose-driven leader who built his company on trust, education, and authenticity. His story is raw, relatable, and a must-listen for anyone who’s discovered that true growth requires more than grit — it requires transformation. Key Themes:

• From Ego to Empathy: How letting go of pride and embracing humility reshaped Mike’s company and leadership.
• Conscious Marketing: Why teaching and transparency build deeper trust than traditional sales tactics.
• Evolving as a Leader: The inner transformation required to build a business that lasts.

Memorable Quotes: “Selling doesn’t build trust. Teaching does.” “The turning point was when I stopped trying to prove I was right and started proving I cared.” Connect with Mike Konrad: Websites: http://www.mikekonrad.com & http://www.aqueoustech.com LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/mtkonrad