PHILIP J. EVERETT
But you can call me Phil
(and to a very select few... Lip)
"The meaning of life is to discover your gift, the purpose of life is to give it away"
— Pablo Picasso
Where I'm From
Growing Up in Florida
I grew up in West Palm Beach, right by the ocean. Pretty typical Florida kid - spent most of my time at the beach, in the water, or wishing I was. The ocean was basically my backyard, and honestly, I couldn't imagine growing up anywhere else.
Started Scuba Diving
Got into scuba diving and it completely changed how I see things. There's something about being underwater - it's quiet, peaceful, and you realize there's this whole other world down there. It's become my way to clear my head. Some people meditate, I dive.
Started Traveling
After leaving Florida, I ended up in Argentina first. Learned Spanish, made some incredible friends, and caught the travel bug hard. Since then I've been to about 25 countries - from the craziness of Shanghai to the middle of nowhere in Iceland. Each place taught me something different, met amazing people everywhere.
Chicago Life
Now I'm in Chicago. I run along Lake Michigan most mornings (when it's not freezing), still travel when I can, and try to bring a bit of that adventurous spirit to everyday life. All those experiences from traveling and diving definitely shaped how I approach things - both in business and personally.
Things I Care About
Staying Active
Running is my thing. I'm out there most mornings - it's where I do my best thinking. There's something about moving that helps everything else fall into place. Plus, it keeps me sane.
Real Relationships
I've been lucky enough to meet people all over the world, and the best part is always the connections. Doesn't matter if we're sharing mate in Buenos Aires or grabbing drinks in Chicago - good people are good people.
Always Learning
I'm naturally curious about pretty much everything. Whether it's picking up a new language, figuring out how something works, or just hearing someone's story - I think the day you stop learning is the day you start getting old.
Finding Balance
Work hard, play hard, but also know when to chill. Life's not just about crushing goals - it's about enjoying the ride, spending time with people you care about, and not taking yourself too seriously.
What's Next
I'm pretty excited about what's coming next. Been thinking a lot about the different roles I want to play in life:
Started in Florida, been around the world, and now I'm here in Chicago. Pretty grateful for all of it, and looking forward to whatever comes next. Life's been good to me, and I try to pay that forward when I can.
Places I've Been
First Big Trip
Argentina - Went there not knowing anyone or speaking Spanish. Left with both. That's when I realized traveling wasn't just about seeing places.
Biggest Culture Shock
Shanghai - The energy there is insane. Millions of people, neon everywhere, life at 100mph. Taught me how to find my own pace in the chaos.
Most Memorable
Iceland - Drove around the whole country. Just you, the road, and landscapes that look like another planet. Really puts things in perspective.