In this episode of The Doctor's Den, we sit down with Haggai Klorman-Eraqi, CEO of Aggaeus Group, as he shares his entrepreneurial journey—starting from selling Coke at summer camp to leading ventures in finance, oil and gas, and AI. Haggai reveals key lessons in leadership, strategic thinking, and resilience, while offering fascinating personal anecdotes, including his triumph as Israel’s D&D champion. Listen in as he discusses navigating complex projects, managing teams, and overcoming unforeseen challenges. Plus, gain insight into his thoughts on Israel’s PR battle on the global stage and his latest business ventures.
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Key Questions Explored in the Episode:
● How did Haggai’s early experiences shape his approach to leadership and business?
● What role did Dungeons & Dragons play in his personal and professional growth?
● How did he overcome learning disabilities to achieve success?
● What are the most critical lessons in risk management and team leadership?
● What are Haggai’s views on Israel’s global positioning and its PR challenges?
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Discussion Points:
● Setting the North Star – Defining leadership values and vision.
● Entrepreneurial Journey – From childhood ventures to leading global businesses.
● D&D Champion – How gaming cultivated strategic thinking and resilience.
● Overcoming Learning Disabilities – Breaking barriers to success.
● Lessons in Risk Management – Insights from investment banking and high-stakes projects.
● The Role of Leadership in Adaptation – Leading through uncertainty.
● Hiring and Firing – The importance of placing the right people in the right roles.
● Israel’s PR Battle – Perspectives on global narratives and public perception.
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Summary of the Conversation:
Haggai Klorman-Eraqi’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and strategic vision. From an early age, he exhibited entrepreneurial instincts, which later fueled his success in finance, oil and gas, and AI ventures. He reflects on how D&D shaped his ability to think critically and lead effectively, and how he overcame learning disabilities to excel academically and professionally.
Throughout the episode, Haggai shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, risk management, and business development, including insights from his time in investment banking and the military. He also delves into his views on Israel’s position in global PR battles, emphasizing the importance of narrative control and strategic communication. Finally, he offers a glimpse into his current projects and future aspirations.
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About The Guest:
Haggai Klorman-Eraqi is the CEO of Aggaeus Group, a business leader with experience across multiple industries, including finance, energy, and AI. His background spans investment banking, strategic management, and entrepreneurship, making him a sought-after voice on leadership, adaptability, and risk management.
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Key Takeaways:
1. Adaptability is crucial – Success in business requires flexibility and resilience.
2. Early influences shape leadership – Even hobbies like D&D can build critical strategic skills.
3. Risk management is an art – Understanding risk is key to long-term business success.
4. Hiring right is essential – Placing the right people in the right roles can make or break an organization.
5. Narratives matter – A strong public relations strategy is critical for businesses and countries alike.
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Time Stamps:
00:00 – Setting the North Star: Leadership Essentials
00:43 – Meet Haggai Klorman-Eraqi: Entrepreneurial Journey
02:01 – D&D Champion: Early Influences and Achievements
04:38 – D&D's Impact on Life and Work
06:48 – Overcoming Learning Disabilities: A Path to Success
12:14 – Academic and Professional Milestones
16:48 – Military Experience and Management Skills
19:41 – Entrepreneurial Ventures and Strategic Insights
23:22 – Building a Business: Successes and Failures
40:08 – A Story About Risk in Investment Banking
42:08 – The Dark Turn: A Tragic Event
42:59 – Lessons in Risk Management
44:29 – Surprises in Business and Leadership
48:21 – The Role of Leadership in Adaptation
53:16 – Hiring and Firing: Right Person, Right Seat
01:03:49 – Supporting Israel: A Personal Perspective
01:17:24 – Current Ventures and Future Plans
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Link for the Guest:
Connect with Haggai Klorman-Eraqi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klormaneraqi/
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Call to Action:
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