Starting is Tough and Sentimental

That Time I Met Chaim Topol for Lunch

언제 그 애들이 이렇게 컸지?

That’s Korean for “When did those kids get so big?”.

And just like that, my daughter is a teenager with an attitude and creating emotions I never knew I had, and a new dynamic in the house that hasn’t been exactly as expected.

She’s upset with me, and I am seeing my daughter grow into a charming teenager with friends, a life outside the family, and an attitude.

It’s something that my wife and I are having difficulty adjusting to and communicating with, as we are both pig-headed and have different views on things.

As I am slowly adding a new venture to the mix, I believe in it, but I start with uncertainty. There is only so much time and resources I can commit to it.

But when you are in business as long as I have been, you tend to want to CYA in case of unforeseen situations. The only way to do that is to keep hustling and try new ventures.

One of my earliest forays into business on my own, and one etched into me by the soundtrack of Fiddler on the Roof, is arranging a meeting with Chaim Topol.

The start of Fiddler on the Roof.

The singer of “If I Were a Rich Man”

(What many crypto bros sing)

And also the international villain in Roger Moore’s fifth outing as James Bond

“For Your Eyes Only”

I wanted to make a movie, had an idea for it, and thought Chaim Topol would be perfect for the role of the grandfather. So I got his phone number (a story for another day), and we met for Sushi on the Mediterranean.

When we met, I didn't expect to see some version of Fiddler on the Roof, but I saw an older, more accomplished actor.

“Chaim Potok?”

“I am sorry to disappoint, I am Chaim Topol”

in his famous deep voice

RULE #1

It doesn’t matter how nervous or excited, get the name of the person you are meeting correct.

But if you do not make sure the name is more famous and accomplished.

He regaled me with stories of how he enjoys his morning routine and how his heart is in his charity work.

So how did he get the theatre bug, he asked? Of course, I was interested.

“I was the loudest youth on the Kibbutz.”

RULE #2

If you got nothing, highlight the positive and be LOUD about it.

This conversation segued into getting a phone call, which he mentioned that for him to help, it does require

$$$ or a donation to his charity

Well, being a bit broke, I was hoping he would fall in love with the script, and my luck would change.

RULE #3 - Never hope for things.

You control your destiny and do not take no for an answer.

Prepare for that meeting like it's a hostage negotiation.

I didn’t know when I got his phone number.

Yesterday, I had the first demonstration of my Headlines software with a complete stranger.

It was as if my daughter was crawling around and had debt up to my neck again.

It brought a tear to my eye. I am sentimental.

But it was funny when speaking to him I picked up on things and listened more than I normally do and had a focused conversation which didn’t think i had in me anymore.

For me, it was a great workout and shvitz.

It’s never too late.

After seeing a few young men pop off recently, smile.

And be passionate every minute of the day.

Have a great Friday afternoon

Eric