In this episode, we reconnect with Mark Monchek, founder and Chief Opportunity Officer of the Opportunity Lab, whose clients include global leaders like Google, Apple, GE, and the United Nations. Mark’s journey sits at the crossroads of business, art, and psychology, and his latest book, Opportunity Intelligence: How to Thrive in an Age of Radical Disruption, is both timely and personal—shaped by a legacy of resilience from a family that endured some of the 20th century’s most profound upheavals.

Mark’s central message is that opportunity isn’t inherently good or bad; it’s simply reality. Our response, mindset, and the stories we tell ourselves are what shape outcomes. He breaks down a powerful framework: start with an “opportunity mindset,” see challenges with fresh eyes, and focus on cultivating networks rooted in abundance, generosity, and collaboration. Through personal anecdotes—like rebuilding his vandalized home through community support—Mark illustrates that resilience comes from recognizing underused resources, embracing uncertainty, and fostering genuine connections. His work is a call to move beyond competition and scarcity thinking, inviting us to create more by supporting each other, both in business and in life.

The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important Takeaway

Ask for help when you need it—and recognize that asking is a gift to others. When we ask and offer support, we heal, connect, and bring the world closer together.

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Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.

Resources:

• Read Opportunity Intelligence: How to Thrive in an Age of Radical Disruption by Mark Monchek
• Read Culture of Opportunity: How to Grow Your Business in an Age of Disruption by Mark Monchek
• Listen: Episode 196: Creating a Culture of Opportunity | with Mark Monchek
• Visit Opportunity Lab to learn more about Mark’s consulting and events
• Follow Mark Monchek on LinkedIn
• UnConference NYC
• Support Asheville Rising

Produced by NOVA