This week, our Building It series hits a different beat; less startup or scaling tactics, more real talk, about building a career and how to become a CEO, especially if you didn’t come from money, networks, or the “right” background.

Shaun Shirazian is now CEO of Lodgify, a global tech company used by thousands of accommodation providers. But rewind the tape, and you’ll find a kid in Dallas, raised by immigrant parents, working his way through every level of the SaaS and tech world from brand management to product leadership at Pipedrive. No silver spoon. Just grit, reflection, and a decision to step up.

What I love most is Shaun’s honesty. We talk about mindset, impostor syndrome, leading people when you used to be one of them, and why self-awareness, not hustle, is the way to unlock your potential. Whether you’re managing a few rooms or scaling something big, this one’s about the mindset shift it takes to lead well, especially when no one hands you the title.

What you will learn from this episode:

📈 Why you don’t need the perfect CV to lead
💬 How to ask for what you want (including the CEO role)
🧠 Building clarity through reflection and journaling
👥 Leading teams you used to work alongside
🔍 The #1 mindset shift you need to grow

Shaun is the current CEO of Lodgify and a 15+ year SaaS veteran. With experience at Intuit, Pipedrive, and Procter & Gamble, he brings a unique mix of strategic thinking, product design, and lived experience to the role. He’s known for being hands-on, human-first, and obsessed with user feedback; a perfect fit for hospitality.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re not “ready” to lead, this episode will change your mind. Shaun’s journey proves that mindset, not pedigree, shapes your trajectory.

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