Forged in Adversity: From War-Torn Lebanon to Luxury Steel Industrialist - Elyas Balta - #0042

Americanooooooo Podcast with Eric Vonheim

Elyas Balta (CEO of Euroline Steel Windows & Doors) shares his journey from growing up in war-torn Lebanon to immigrating to the United States and starting his own business. Elyas discusses his passion for learning and exploration, which he sees as interconnected with travel. He also talks about his upbringing and the challenges he faced during the war, as well as his early interest in art and engineering. After working in the tech industry during the dot-com boom, Elyas decided to start his own business installing cameras in businesses. However, he found it difficult to sell and shifted his focus to buying a blacksmith shop that produced ornamental iron. He learned to overcome his fear of sales by teaching and educating clients about his products. Elyas emphasizes the importance of building relationships and finding gratitude in every moment. He also reflects on the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship and the need to define success on one's own terms. Elyas encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to not let fear hold them back and to embrace learning and perseverance. He also advises them to not be afraid of failure, but rather see it as an opportunity to learn and grow.