By | Published On: May 1, 2025 |

In episode 209 of The Executive Edge, I welcome Jeff Bogensberger, a former corporate executive turned purpose-driven entrepreneur, who shares his candid story of transformation after hitting a life crossroads at age 50.

Jeff opens up about the personal losses, disillusionment with corporate life, and global events that pushed him to radically change direction. Fueled by a desire to make people happier and life more fun, Jeff founded The Laughing Otter, a multimedia and events company designed to spread positivity, support social causes, and make a genuine impact—especially for children and underserved communities.

🔍 In This Episode:

  • The pivotal life events that led Jeff to walk away from a successful executive career.
  • How burnout, misaligned values, and witnessing personal tragedies pushed him to reassess everything.
  • Why purpose-driven business can be both profitable and socially impactful.
  • The Laughing Otter’s mission: spreading joy through events, positive news, children’s books, and global initiatives.
  • How Jeff’s agile, partnership-focused business model enables fast, joyful, and meaningful growth.
  • The role of optimism, humor, and community in healing from a divisive, negative media landscape.
  • Jeff’s views on the societal effects of the dot-com boom and how capitalism has shifted away from value creation.

🌍 Plus:

  • Learn how small acts—like funding a party for an orphanage in Uganda—can create huge emotional returns.
  • Discover how to get involved, whether you’re an event partner, donor, or just someone with a crazy, fun idea.

📣 Connect with Jeff:

Website
LinkedIn

💡 This episode is a heartfelt reminder that it’s never too late to redefine your path and that business success doesn’t have to come at the cost of your values—or your happiness.

Listen now and get inspired to create your own ripple of positive change.