Introducing Sumi: Finding Alignment Amidst Competing Expectations

48 minutes Posted Dec 11, 2019 at 7:42 pm.

Learn how being a first generation American shaped Sumi’s politics, and how those beliefs have evolved over her life. 

“The reason I’m so passionate about this is because I have spent a lot of time opening my heart up -in terms of understanding what it means to really feel my feelings. And because I’ve done that i’ve taken off these layers that we’re sort of conditioned to put on top that hardens us. So when you take off those layers and then you see a little kid who doesn’t have access to quality food and education ask you why she’s undeserved, it hits you in a whole new way.” 

Sumi explains how her father’s story embodies the American dream. 

The intersection between privilege and hard work.

Sumi tells the story of the time she tried to ditch engineering school for dance camp, and how it leads to her starting one of the fastest growing govcon businesses in the industry.

“For all of you who feel like you’ve been in trouble, entrepreneurship is your path.”

The lifelong question between Sumi and her sisters.

“I think he [dad] always wanted a son and he never got one, and I think in his mind I was his stand in son. For any idea back in his mind that he would give to his son, instead he would give to me.”

“Once I brought my dad the wedding planning businesses plan he poked a thousand holes in it and then suggested I start an IT services company and market my friends skill sets to the government.” 

Sumi explains exactly what types of programs K4 Solutions worked on. 

Sumi shares her unique perspective from being a DC insider for 15+ years. 

Overcoming doubt with hard work.

Hear why Sumi ultimately left her life in Washington DC 

The validation that came with attending Harvard, and the realization she came to after.

The people who changed Sumi’s life at Harvard. 

Sumi dives deep into how she found one of her other greatest passions - CROSSFIT!

“It was the best feeling helping people get their first pull up or helping people squat over three digits. I realized I have the coach gene like that’s part of who I am.” 

Sumi gives the inside scoop about her most recent transition from CEO to Nashville singer/songwriter! 

“Life is so much more fun when you’re growing.”

“I think it’s important to make sure your ladder is on the right wall and that you’re doing the things that are ultimately gonna not just make you money but make you feel fulfilled, make you feel healthy, whole, and like you’re making a positive impact on the world.” 

“It’s been knocking at my heart for decades and I’m listening now. And I’m so excited for where it’s gonna lead me!”

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Show notes

Sumi gets Interviewed!

Show Notes:

“I think it was a slow decline of my excitement for life.”

1. What is your definition of leadership?

2. What does success mean to you? 

3. What is the key to being a single successful thirty something? 

4. Would you rather be twice as smart or twice as happy? 

5. When was the last time you cried? 

6. What is one thing you will be really disappointed if you never get to experience in life? 

7. When was the last time you changed your opinion on something major? 

8. What book do you wish everyone would read?

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