How to Hack Your Way Into Success at Anything | Alex Banayan on Impact Theory

JOIN THE IMPACT THEORY DISCORD - HTTP://WWW.IMPACTTHEORY.COM/DISCORD
There you will get direct access to Tom and the team PLUS exclusive content, offers, and so much more. Jump on in and get started on becoming legendary!
Alex Banayan dropped out of college to hunt down and ask legends like Bill Gates, Steven Spielberg, Maya Angelou and more how they accomplished their dreams so he could share it with the world. These stories as told in the best-selling book, The Third Door, reframe what most consider “secrets” to success into human journeys of failure and persistence. Business author and one of the youngest VC’s ever Alex Banayan shares the wisdom from his and many others journeys on this episode of Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu.
SHOW NOTES:
Alex breaks down The Third Door mentality and how he used it to fund his dream. [2:37]
Alex on how external voices and rejection factored into his journey. [9:23]
Alex tells the power and importance of friendship in his success. [17:54]
Alex talks about fear within uncertainty and how to work with it instead of against it. [24:06]
Alex shares Steven Spielberg’s incredible story of turning rejection into a new path. [28:35]
Alex shares the story of Qi Lu and how he redefined the word “luck”. [34:43]
Alex touches on insecurities and developing self-awareness. [42:40]
Alex reveals the impact he wants to have on the world. [47:05]
QUOTES:
“The difference between fearlessness and courage is that fearlessness is jumping off of the cliff without thinking. Courage is acknowledging your fear, analyzing the consequences, and deciding you still care so much about it, you're gonna take one step forward anyway.” [4:37]
“You will never win against the voices in your head if you try to argue with them. What I've learned is that if you, instead of focusing on the voices and the fears, you focus on the desires.” [12:04]
“And I think no matter what your dream is, if you're able to find a larger purpose, a larger impact that lives beyond you, all of a sudden all of your bullshit that's holding you down becomes a lot less relevant.” [12:17]
“I've learned that insecurities will never leave you, just like with fear. They're a natural part of the human condition. So your goal shouldn't be to rid yourself of insecurities. It should be to become so aware of them that they could be yammering away and you go, "Oh, that's just the insecurity.” [44:25]
“The second you speak something out loud, it doesn't have power over you anymore.” [45:15]
“When you change what someone believes is possible, you change what becomes possible.” [49:24]
FOLLOW ALEX BANAYAN:
TWITTER - bit.ly/2tf2FL1
FACEBOOK - bit.ly/2yubDKj
LINKEDIN - bit.ly/2ljSDo1
INSTAGRAM - bit.ly/2tnyxgD
PEOPLE MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Blake Mycoskie - bit.ly/2lgrwKz [13:50]
Qi Lu - bit.ly/2M1Qyse [34:32]
COMPANIES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Alsop Louie - bit.ly/2tixBdj [0:50]
BOOKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
The Third Door - amzn.to/2MxoDSa [1:00]
When Things Fall Apart - amzn.to/2JTcxkt [26:07]
IMPACT THEORY MERCHANDISE: Check out Impact Theory's Merch Shop: bit.ly/ImpactTheoryShop

[@carlo8500]

🔥 "The quality of a relationship is directly correlated to your ability to have uncomfortable conversations" 🔥

[@iampennylane777]

I love this quote so much that I played it twice..I love it ❤️

[@SiimLand]

Courage requires the presence of fear. You need to be scared before you can be brave. "The cave you fear to enter the most holds the treasure you seek" - Joseph Campbell

[@gabrielag9538]

Siim Land , Indeed, you need to be scared first in order to be brave.

[@IdealMuslimahSite]

I appreciate that you type up the best quotes and parts of the interview

[@3EBstudio]

well said

[@n.d.risley8674]

Love the Campbell quote! Thanks.🙏🏾

[@junkjunk2493]

hhooo rraaahh JC ... joseph campbell

[@bobarros]

I want you to know how much I appreciate this. In a 31 years lifetime, I cried less about ten times. One of them was when my mother died. You made me cry not only once but twice. I'm grateful for both of them. Thank you very much. I'm from Brazil, and I talk to everyone I can about this channel. Please, keep going.

[@RonjaSebastian]

"When you don't know the story that you're telling yourself, is when they're the most dangerous." Deep man. Thank you.

[@karlkatende]

How did 51 minutes go by so fast?! So inspired by Alex, his story and his relentless drive and commitment to success and achieving his goal. I recently emailed him to express my gratitude after reading his book "The Third Door"; I couldn't help it, I was so moved and he was gracious enough to respond. Keep inspiring young people Alex, and thanks to Tom Bilyeu for the very impactful work you are doing.

[@berryfairy68]

He’s so lucky to have friendships like the ones he speaks of... Inspiring in so many ways.

[@lenasmith2549]

"you're illuminating branches for people, you're changing what people believe is possible". It's an older interview but that is still the best and most accurate way I've heard to describe Impact Theory.

[@SebastianMantey]

Amazing interview, just amazing. Alex seems to be such a genuine person and there were so many interesting things discussed: the idea of the “third door” itself 02:42, the story of his friends 18:00, his definition of being a good friend 21:42, the story of Steven Spielberg 28:26, an “inside man” 32:55, the story of former Microsoft President Qi Lu 34:30, luck is like a bus 41:04 or “illuminating branches for people” 47:18 Needless to say, I just ordered the book.

[@haynelnegueruela4769]

For me is about the most genuine person Tom has interviewed so far

[@martinv.-]

"The shame is what traps that insecurity and the thing about shame is that shame can only live in secrecy. The second you speak something out loud it doesn't have power over you anymore." Truly exceptional. Thanks Alex!

[@thetruthbetweenthelines8521]

Alex Banayan has to be one of the top interviews and it's mostly because he is damn genuine. There are people who amaze you with their story ( Alex has some points here as well) or with some new amazing concepts, but the ones who are actually memorable are the ones who make you feel like they talk just to you even if the audience is huge. Kudos for Tom for speaking so little.

[@rohansolanki7229]

Bran: Can a man be brave if he's afraid? Ned: That's the only time a man can be brave. An inspirational quote in A Game Of Thrones. Came to mind when he talked about courage and fearlessness.

[@Nielly]

Love me some GRRM.

[@TheZGALa]

"Illuminating branches" brought tears to my eyes. So great. Thank you both.

[@Man_with_no_name]

If you like this, check our Swami Vivekanandas Raja Yoga, he spoke about this 200 odd years ago.

[@sheriannemanus263]

Thank you for content that continues to push me to stop making excuses and get rid of limiting beliefs.

[@CiecieNewson]

Tom every time I hear you speak your truth, my heart soars with excitement. Your concluding words were just as powerful as Alex's interview. I'm so happy you've allowed me access to your passionate wisdom through these videos. ~Smile!

[@axxent2]

I had to pause this several times.... Wow Tom! You outdo yourself every time! Thank for putting so much valuable insights & content. Absolutely brilliant.🙌💖💗

[@momslikemechicago]

After watching this episode, I immediately ordered The Third Door. I read it in 5 hours. Alex Banayan is a fantastic writer, and I learned so much from reading this book! It's as if he was speaking to my soul. After reflection, I realized that every fantastic, miraculous event I've experienced in my 58 years occurred because I wasn't afraid to enter through the Third Door. It is Alex's insight and understanding, at such a young age, that will carry me through each and every one of my next adventures! Thanks, Tom, for having the insight to interview this extraordinry man! Awesome interview!

[@lavenderskies2094]

Tom is one of the best interviewers. He consistently asks amazingly in depth and intriguing questions and gives the guest plenty of time to express their answer. Every video is so impactful. Love this channel and I so appreciate Tom’s insightful and gracious way about him.

[@alishacrothers5852]

Best 50 minutes I’ve spent in a long time! I’ve yet to watch an Impact Theory that didn’t truly impact me, but Alex’s interview really stood out - thank you Tom and Alex! SO GOOD everyone!

[@stevearmstrong7023]

That was amazing. One of the top. That guy is so humble it’s unreal. Absolute legend.

[@berryfairy68]

Feel just like Tom, where I had to take a breath from how touching and inspiring this young guy is, so genuine and beautiful.

[@MarshaunO]

Very powerful. Love when he gets vulnerable with you when his dad passed and his best friends were carrying his dad's casket. A raw moment for sure. Thanks for sharing him with us. Just added his book to my list!

[@twonrichpo1126]

Unbelievable n awesome interview. Truly loved all of what Alex said!! thank you for allowing us to see these very possible branches

[@sudabehmoein1788]

Tom: Thank you for inviting one of my countrymen to your show!! I saw your tear up for the first time and I was touched ... Thank you for your effort to help us fulfill our dreams!!!

[@leap7173]

One of your best interviews Tom. The part regarding about Alex's father's funeral and your discussion around friendship was really deep and moving. Thanks for that and for your work in general. It's a personal inspiration for me.

[@sylvie1537]

This interview is the best one I’ve seen so far! Watching it for the 3rd time today. So many gold nuggets... Simply amazing! Thank you!

[@jamesobute7929]

‘The Third Door’ changed my life. Thank you so much Alex Banayan. And thank you Tom, for making me discover such an incredible person!

[@amandakappes3884]

This is my FAVORITE impact theory episode, so much passion and VALUE form all the diverse principles discussed.....really highlights the purpose of the show here. Thank you so much

[@Live.Life.Restored]

19:44 I just lost my dad this year and during this difficult time, it has been revealed to me who the people in my life truly are. Loved this about your story you truly are abundant.

[@vishalsorout]

I had goosebumps listening to the Qi Lu story. Just unreal perseverance, determination and will.

[@PexReyes]

Man, best episode of Impact Theory, yet. Made me cry..

[@debrachase3131]

"Illuminating branches..." WOW! What an exquisite, poetic and accurate compliment!

[@kiyingidavid2339]

My takeaway was from how he understood Luck plus how he explained your show affecting us.Stay Blessed.Thnx Alot

[@CulpepperConcepts]

The vocabulary alone in this interview was absolutely astonishing... So many things to learn from you guys. Alex is fantastic at interviews, this is the second time am seeing him being interviewed and he ALWAYS knows how he will answer a question without stuttering, second guessing, doubting, starting to speak and then changing his answer... He always knows what he is going to say and that to me, is quite impressive.

[@johnjoseph9094]

This is by far my favourite Impact Theory episode. I'm blown away!

[@Kmcgurl]

The parts about having an "emotional reset" and classifying the thought "uncertainty is a muscle" will forever stay with me. Thank you guys for this video and making an impact on my day!

[@WhateverItTakesMotivation]

LOVING this interview so far. And Almost done reading the book right now! EXCELLENT book. AMAZING story. And love his insight on going against what your family and society wants you to do

[@kymberlymcfadden156]

I have chills! Thank you for what you do Tom! It's so impactful in every way.

[@gabrieldepallens9914]

Love the interview. Alex is so encouraging about his message and so honest. He moved my branch to a higher ground

[@badarock177]

This is the first time I share one of your interviews. At the beginning I didn't think much of it, but then I startet to realize how great and amazing was the message he had for us. Thank you so much. This is real Impact.

[@FuchsiaRose09]

The story about the child and his drawing touched my heart; eye opening. Also loved the definition of Luck by Qi Lu. Thank you!

[@sydnichattman2738]

Gold for days! Loved how he talked about insecurities and fears being a human condition! We have to ACKNOWLEDGE them and be aware in order for those human conditions to be POWERLESS over our lives! Good stuff!

[@maerroc]

So he has lots of good passages and stories to tell, but it's his overflowing enthusiasm that made me wish this talk would go on for another 3 hours. Thank you both!

[@matejaboltis9254]

I can't believe this is free! This is amazing! Thank you Tom, for presenting us people like Alex, who make this world a better place to live in!

[@Dramnovir]

Thanks for the value you're bringing to me with these talks

[@carissabelik9120]

Oh man! I didn’t want this interview to end. Very captivating!

[@geraguinand]

I was moved to tears more than once with this interview! I love IT because every time it shares an amazing story, an amazing human being, one more person to restore faith in humanity and see that there’s not only hope for the future but people that are actually taking action into making the future brighter! Thank you Tom! And thanks to all your guests for so much inspiration! I will get Alex’s book ASAP!!! 🙏🏻❤️

[@JennyG2805]

I love when people get all excited over Tom's intellect and interview skills. That's why we are all here bruh! He's just the best of the best! :)

[@megaversemusic7822]

Thank You Both & Everyone behind Impact Theory! ~ Have the Best Day Ever :)

[@paziont]

My goodness, I love this very much! Can't wait till I read the book. "... people always reach for the highest branch whether it's up to parents whether it's up to schools or society at large and that's a reason I love impact Theory so much because in many ways where you're doing is you're illuminating branches for people you're changing what they believe is possible..."

[@knathman]

Incredible episode! Definitely getting myself a copy of Alex's book. Thank you, Tom!

[@JanelleMercedes]

This was one of the best interviews and guests you’ve had - and they are all great. Love your work!

[@KarmaGirlDreams]

Tom is an excellent host, his questions are all depthful and thought-provoking.

[@ayoaremu9355]

Wow! A profound storyteller. This is one of my favourites, thank you!

[@TheAliyahRai]

I loved this! Let me write this down: Within 5 years I'll be so deep in my purpose that I'll be on the Impact Theory radar.

[@mohammedanwar8048]

Amazing session I really loved the way Alex how Alex took it and his words are filled with emotion and he is such an inspiration. Thank you Tom for bringing him in your show and inspiring us.

[@R20104]

Tom Bilyeu, I can't thank you enough for these amazing interviews and inspiration you bring to me. Keep being awesome!

[@LunyMilky]

Nowadays we watch so many videos.. but I know this one, this one is gonna stick with me for a long long time. Learned so much with this talk. Thanks!

[@DonyaLane]

What a delightful person! I never heard of Alex Banayan until watching this interview. What a soulful guy! Looking forward to reading his book and hearing more from him in the future...

[@Dommi16895]

This is one of the best interviews !!! Amazing episode :D

[@janinekomal8293]

What an interview! Thank you, Tom, for illuminating so many branches for me. And thank you Alex for so eloquently bringing your message across. Impact Theory has become one of my favourite shows. Thank YOU!!!

[@edunlap6594]

Agreeing with your fears drops your defensiveness. Ah! Love it!

[@heatherd5466]

Loved this episode! So many great stories, and quotes. "Luck is essential to success but no one understands the way it works" (41:18)

[@iamloveandpeace]

"Illuminating branches for young minds" - Brilliant and I agree. Amazing interview.

[@monkeymind6242]

Thanks Tom and Alex. Discovered the show a few months ago and I've been watching several of the interviews. I really enjoyed this one. It's amazing how valuable this show is.

[@eddiecharles9469]

Never cried watching thos show until today. The story about his friends at his dad's funeral hit me so hard.

[@Sarbloh]

Really so so powerful and astonishing to know about people from nothing to "something". Thanks dude for all ur videos, really greatful to u.

[@MerchantsRus]

This is by far my favorite interview. I ordered his book immediately. Thank you.

[@bobbyeshghi75]

Tom, the master of introductions. You always have such brilliant guests. Not just because of their work, but because they share their valuable experiences in such a genuine and down-to-earth way. I got through The Third Door audio in 2 days and even contacted Alex but haven’t heard back yet. Tom, please put the good word in 😂

[@paulbateman858]

The story in the last three minutes is simultaneously incredibly heart-breaking and yet so uplifting and full of possibility.

[@awakeningdezign]

Beautiful! Love this conversation and the vulnerability taking place. This is what the world is longing for. For real!

[@fatoumatad1356]

Tom Bilyeu you are a blessing!!!

[@Mushdrum]

Thank you Tom. I think I'm becoming addicted to goosebumps and I can count on this show giving them to me daily.

[@julzsep90]

Wow that final comment of illuminating branches is literally the best way I can describe this show/community you built and that's ultimately why I love sharing this with the ones I love ... As always thanks Mr. Bilyeu

[@Grifons003]

I'm in a loss for words. Truly, truly, truly inspirational. I'm immensely grateful for this episode. Thank you both!

[@corynory489]

I have homework due in 4 hours and I cannot put down this book. I am 4 hours in. And it is sooo good. so many moments my eyes well up because what Alex is saying resonates with me. Awesome awesome book man.

[@gookymo]

This guy's analogies are on point. Another great video Tom, please never stop doing what you are doing.

[@hcy5484]

Thank you Alex and Tom, will be accepting that fear and uncertainty is always there, be aware of their existence but keep working towards my goals and dream

[@premiumcoach]

How can you unlike this video. It was TOTALLY AMAZING! The most real video you ever made Tom. Thanks for being so real Alex.

[@riveravictor]

I've been watching/listening to the show for about 7 months, and of all the episodes that have been shown this has got to be my favorite one. Insightful in so many ways! Plus, it made me tear up. Props to you and Alex!

[@frankiegunnz8066]

Alex and Tom Just gave me the gift of HOPE. Thank you guys! 😭

[@Insightfulshorts611]

Awesomeeeeee Interview God! Tears coming down my face as Alex is speaking.

[@thedream3506]

beautiful. His energy is so happy and young yet wise all at once. Creating a 3rd door. while prepared for the bus of luck and having/creating a community of a real support system seems like the golden key to true happiness and success.

[@madisonvillegas7198]

This has to be my favorite impact theory episode ever...

[@adriangomez-mora1901]

This episode has changed my outlook on life and made me realize I need to voice out those insecurities holding me back so that I can free myself. Truly inspiring interview. I had to buy the book immediately.

[@estebanhenriquez3491]

The messages and insight all these people bring to the channel is just powerful!

[@AkosM]

One of the most inspiring speeches i've listened to on IMPT.

[@mazedmarky]

loved the purity of this episode! keep it up

[@krinakkrriinnaa1891]

Wow, Alex you're awesome! Great interview, thank you Tom!

[@gsquaredeverything4285]

Loving my Impact Theory binge today! This was such a rich conversation.

[@melanieeele]

Wow just..wow.. I have goosebumps. Has this just become my most favorite episode of Impact Theory ever? This man is incredible.

[@jonathantorres208]

Tom, in my opinion this was the greatest episode you’ve ever done and I’ve seen so many. I know it’s just my opinion and everyone has a favorite but MAN This episode was so good. How he broke down fear and insecurity and the stories of people who have made it was absolutely incredible!!! I am truly inspired and motivated to keep going through with my KZbin channel and continue my journey of learning and self transformation. Thank you so much for this. Truly grateful!

[@EliFernandez_1]

Tom I will take it from your own words “dude this was incredible”, extremely effortless yet so powerful. Thank you so much for all of your videos. These are so inspiring.

[@suzygao6104]

Such a inspirational interview, I love your channel Tom and I watch it every morning. Thank you very much for sharing.

[@authentic_tone]

Love Alex and his message, Great to see a fellow Millennial out there doing big things, showing the rest of us what's possible.

[@jodijohnston6687]

Just epic conversation yet again. I adore this channel! Thank you!

[@quinbee55]

The Universe brought this message to me at the most brilliant time. Beautifully powerful words. Thank you for sharing this with the world.

[@harrybarnett157]

this is the best impact theory i have ever watched. honestly i didn't expect such a young guy to be mroe impactful compared to the other speakers. amazing video. thank you, cause now i have another branch.

[@ursulanonya6590]

Damn Tom. Just when I think you have hit PEAK, you blow me away with magic!

[@billiejolene895]

Wow. That there's a wise old soul. He's remarkable. Also, no other episode of IT has ever made me cry.

[@TEE19622]

Such wisdom from such a young dude ...many ideas rang true ...lighting tells us how ideas(energy) forks ...our efforts and energy propagates forever just like that