For many people, the new year bring new ideas. New beginnings. A new chance to think of what you want for your future.

In this episode from October 2018, we sat down with serial entrepreneur Barry Beck. Barry, the co-founder Bluemercury Inc., started his first business at as a child, shovelling snow in his Philadelphia neighbourhood. His entrepreneurial spirit was encouraged by his father, who told him that he could be "anything, as long as he owns it”.

Before starting Bluemercury with his wife Marla, Barry already had three successful business ventures under his belt. 20 years on, Bluemercury is credited with putting a dent in the cosmetic universe and disrupting mainstream retail! Macy’s has since acquired the company, and lends its resources to the innovative retailer.

Barry credits his personal board of directors for challenging him to strive for 'more'. He explains that he always had a drive to succeed and thinks his leadership and entrepreneurial qualities are a mix of both nature and nurture. During this episode of the Roots of Leadership, Barry discusses the most important characteristics of a leader, when the best business decisions are made, and also shares some advice he received from Bill Gates before starting Bluemercury.