In this episode, Dr. Wayne Pernell sits down with Dr. Subhan Ali, Silicon Valley–based co-founder of Gekit, a next-generation data + AI infrastructure company. Subhan shares his unconventional journey from structural engineering into data science, product management, and ultimately entrepreneurship.

The conversation explores:
• How data infrastructure underpins all modern AI
• Why context is the secret weapon of LLM performance
• How to make bold, non-linear career transitions
• The mindset required to leave “safe paths” to create something new
• The importance of conviction, constant learning, and self-belief in leadership

In this episode, Dr. P sits down with Amber Shepherd — a leader whose journey from rural Florida to international consulting to regional economic development shows what’s possible when you listen to the “whispers” and commit to excellence.

Amber shares how she transformed workforce programs, worked with the Korean government on global expansion projects, and now leads major economic initiatives in Northeast Florida — including a $400M aerospace R&D hub and a $125M renewable energy facility.

Together, they explore faith-driven leadership, navigating doubt, converting naysayers, and why relationship-building is the true engine of economic growth.

A powerful conversation about purpose, persistence, and creating significance through service.

💡 Key Themes & Takeaways
1. Listen to the Whisper — Leadership Begins Internally Amber shares a pivotal life moment (including a literal fall from a horse) that taught her the importance of recognizing intuitive guidance. Leadership requires tuning in, not tuning out.

2. Excellence Is a Daily Commitment Success isn’t about perfection — it’s about refusing to let “good enough” become the standard. Small compromises lead to big unravelings.

3. Naysayers Are a Gift, Not an Obstacle Amber reframes criticism as fuel, not friction. When skeptics convert into supporters, they often become your strongest advocates.

4. Your Path Is Never Linear — and That’s the Point From accounting to career services to global consulting to regional economic development, Amber’s journey is a masterclass in leveraging your unique strengths while staying open to reinvention.

5. Economic Development Is Relationship Development Big deals and big dreams aren’t built overnight — they’re built through consistent follow-up, trust, and long-term vision.

6. Personal History Can Become Professional Power Amber’s upbringing and early life experiences give her deep empathy and unique insight into the people she serves today.

In this episode of One Sharp Sword, Dr. Wayne Pernell sits down with global finance and operations leader Alexander J. Freeman, whose journey spans continents, cultures, and some of the world’s most influential companies.

Born in a country that no longer exists, Alex moved from Odessa → Italy → Texas → Moscow → New York → Austin — building a remarkable career with Citigroup, Visa, Dell, American Express, HID Global, and more. His story is rich with insight about leadership, resilience, risk-taking, and the power of leaning into discomfort.

If you’re a leader, an aspiring leader, or someone who knows they’re meant for more, this conversation will inspire you to stretch, grow, and rethink what’s possible.

🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why stepping into discomfort is the key to accelerating your growth
• How mentorship shapes leadership — and how to become a better mentor
• The real reason people follow great leaders (and why they leave bad ones)
• How Alex staffs his teams at 80% capacity to prevent burnout
• The rituals he uses to create presence and calm before big moments
• The leadership mindset shift that turns “failure” into feedback
• What Alex learned from international roles that shaped his success
• Why teaching is a powerful form of legacy