S4E7: The Way You Define the Problem Will Define the Solution feat. Brian Pham

This season we are talking all about impact – the people and
experiences that have impacted us, the ways we are impacting
others, and what we can all do to build confidence in our ability
to make a difference. 


Our guest today is Eccles alum Brian Pham, who is here to talk
about his experience at the Goff Strategic Leadership Center and
how his time as a Goff Scholar prepared him to be an impactful
leader after graduation.


Brian graduated from the Eccles School in 2022 with a degree in
marketing and became a minor celebrity as the student speaker at
his commencement ceremony. During his time at the Eccles School,
Brian served as the Executive Director of Out For Business, an
LGBTQ+ student organization that aims to increase inclusivity and
representation within the broader business community. He also
served as SEO lead at Sorenson Impact Center, where he led a
website design project for the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
and was part of the Goff Scholars program. 


Brian and host Frances Johnson cover a lot in this episode,
starting with why it seems like Brian’s generation is really
interested in impact-oriented work and making a difference. They
also discuss getting encouragement from Eccles professors to
think outside the box, advocating for better LGBTQ+ workplace
rights & protections, and struggling to overcome imposter
syndrome and a lack of confidence.


Eccles Business Buzz is a production of the David Eccles School
of Business and is produced by University FM.
Episode Quotes:

The impact of micro-relationships


[01:32] When I think of impact, I think of it mostly in the
context of impact in relation to others rather than impact on the
world. Personally, I prioritize impact on other people and/or
recognizing how they impact me as well. It's those little
micro-relationships that, I think, really make up your entire
life. 


The goal of Out for Business


[24:56] Our goal isn't to be able to change everything. We
recognize that, but it's that small impact we have. If we can
change the opinion of three people who are classmates, I consider
that success.


On learning to ask the right ask questions


[18:44] If you don't ask the right question, then you'll be
solving completely different problems. the wrong problems, right?
I've carried that principle everywhere, not just in my work but
also in my life. Making sure that you're asking the right
questions every step of the way changes how you view the world,
work, problem-solving, and the broader scheme.
Show Links:

Goff Strategic Leadership Center

Out for Business at Eccles

Sorenson Impact Center

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

Microsoft

Mirador Basin Project

Bonita Austin

Megan Kawaguchi