The Mindset of a Billionaire: Bernard Chong on Investing & Leadership

In this captivating episode of Angels, Exits, and Acquisitions, host Jeff Barnes is joined by Bernard Chong, a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of BrenSEED Foundation, an organization committed to empowering aspiring leaders worldwide through transformative education and professional development. Bernard shares his journey from growing up in a family business in the Philippines to becoming a significant figure in angel investing in the United States, emphasizing the lessons learned, the importance of patience, and the value of investing in people.


Bernard Chong, originally from the Philippines and now based in Los Angeles, discusses his first investment, the evolution of his investment philosophy, and the impactful role of BrenSEED Foundation in shaping the future of education. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersections of leadership, education, investment, and personal growth.


Timestamps:

  • 00:00 Introduction
  • 00:18 Bernard Chong’s Background
  • 01:44 Bernard’s First Investment Experience
  • 03:29 The Transition to Angel Investing
  • 06:00 Learning and Growth as an Investor
  • 09:18 The Role of Patience and Communication in Investments
  • 12:00 Navigating Challenges and Supporting Founders
  • 18:27 Lessons from Angel Investing
  • 22:57 Successful Investments and Projects
  • 25:29 Launching the BrenSEED Foundation
  • 30:06 Connecting with Bernard

Learn more about BrenSEED Foundation and its mission to empower aspiring leaders by visiting https://brenseedfoundation.org/.


Connect with Bernard Chong on social media for insights and updates: https://linktr.ee/brenchong

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#AngelInvesting #Leadership #Education #ProfessionalGrowth #Investment #Entrepreneurship #Podcast #BernardChong #BrenSEEDFoundation #Philanthropy

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John Reighard, Partner & EVP

John Reighard is a Partner at Angel Investors Network, where he leverages his expertise in business development, networking, and investor relations to help entrepreneurs secure funding and scale their businesses. With a passion for connecting people and ideas, John plays a pivotal role in fostering strategic partnerships and guiding business owners toward sustainable success. In addition to his work with Angel Investors Network, he also owns and operates two other small businesses.

 

A Connector and Networking Extraordinaire, Business Coach/Consultant, and Inspirational Speaker, John is deeply committed to helping individuals and businesses achieve meaningful results. His mission is to empower entrepreneurs and leaders to create lasting impact through strategic growth, financial acumen, and powerful relationship-building.

 

John has trained with, been mentored by, and provided consulting services to some of the world’s top thought leaders in personal development and business transformation, including Jack Canfield (America’s #1 Success Coach and Founder of Chicken Soup for the Soul), Stephen Covey, T. Harv Eker, Bob Proctor, Blair Singer, Robert Kiyosaki, Neil Rackham, Marcia Wieder, and Roger (Bud) Seith. These experiences have shaped his ability to guide clients through personal and professional growth, helping them unlock their full potential.

 

Before joining Angel Investors Network, John took a sabbatical in 2002, living with his family in Norway, Portugal, and France—an enriching experience that followed 15 award-winning years in Silicon Valley. During his time in the tech industry, he worked for leading companies such as Lucent Technologies, Exodus Communications, Octel Communications, and Brady Corporation.

Meet Jeff Barnes

Jeff Barnes is a former US Navy Nuclear power plant operator on a Submarine, Navy diver, risk management director, technology enthusiast, business growth expert, advisor and management consultant. Mr. Barnes sits on the boards of startup companies, runs a venture fund, supports non-profits supporting military vets, and spends most of his time helping CEOs and founders of growing companies automate, systemize, and scale to 8 and 9-figure valuations.

 

With over 20 years of technology, systems, operations, and marketing experience, Mr. Barnes has advised over 1,000 companies, invested tens of millions in advertising campaigns, and helped companies generate over $1 billion in investment capital.

 

As the chairman of Angel Investors Network and founder of Digital Evolution Marketing Group, Mr. Barnes has worked with founders, entrepreneurs, and CEOs around the world to accelerate the growth of their businesses and achieve substantial exits. He’s a father, husband, veteran, business owner, advisor, and mentor, and his true passion in life his helping others achieve success, freedom, and autonomy in theirs.