Meet Eric Okon

We were lucky to catch up with Eric Okon recently and have shared our conversation below.

Eric, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I was born into my family’s business, a global chauffeured services company, and I always knew I wanted to be part of its growth and success. However, at the beginning of my career, I struggled with imposter syndrome. I felt as though I hadn’t “earned” my place because I was fortunate enough to inherit a thriving company.

Over time, I’ve learned that inheriting a business doesn’t mean the work is done for you. A company of any size doesn’t run itself—it requires constant attention, adaptability, and resilience to navigate the challenges that inevitably arise. Facing obstacles and moments of crisis has shown me that success isn’t guaranteed, and it’s the effort, leadership, and decisions we make every day that determine the future.

Through those experiences, I came to realize that being born into this business doesn’t make me “less than.” Instead, it’s an opportunity to honor the hard work of those before me while paving the way for the next chapter. It’s about stepping into the role fully, proving to myself and others that I have what it takes to not only maintain the success of the past but also to drive it forward into the future.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m Eric Okon, COO of BLS, a global, family-owned chauffeured transportation company that has been proudly serving clients for over 50 years. My parents started this business in their kitchen on Long Island, and today, it’s become a leader in the industry, known for providing safe, reliable, and luxurious transportation for executives, celebrities, and businesses worldwide.

What makes BLS special is not only our ability to adapt and evolve but also the strong family values that guide everything we do. As a family-run company without outside investors, we’re uniquely positioned to prioritize the needs of our clients above all else. Whether it’s navigating major events like Comic-Con or handling high-profile productions in Hollywood, our team’s agility and commitment to excellence set us apart.

One of the most exciting aspects of BLS is our focus on innovation and collaboration. We’re constantly finding ways to improve client experiences and form meaningful partnerships. For instance, we work extensively with veteran-, minority-, and woman-owned affiliate companies across the U.S., ensuring our impact reaches far beyond transportation.

Looking ahead, we’re expanding our presence in key markets, investing in new technology to enhance our booking systems, and doubling down on sustainability initiatives within the transportation industry. We’re also exploring new media projects, such my podcast with my brother Michael, Okon Bros, where we’ll dive into the intersection of business, entertainment, and innovation.

Ultimately, my goal is to continue building a brand that reflects my family’s dedication, integrity, and vision while embracing new opportunities to grow and connect with our clients and communities.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, three key qualities that were most impactful in my journey are adaptability, resilience, and leadership through empathy.

Adaptability: The transportation industry is dynamic, requiring constant adjustments to shifting technologies, market demands, and unexpected challenges. I’ve learned that staying adaptable means not being dogmatic in your approach—what worked yesterday may not work tomorrow. Flexibility in thinking and a willingness to pivot when necessary have been key to maintaining growth and relevance.

Resilience: Success is rarely linear. Setbacks are inevitable, and resilience has been essential in overcoming those challenges while staying focused on long-term objectives. It’s about maintaining composure during difficult times and trusting that perseverance will lead to solutions.

Leadership Through Empathy: At its core, any business thrives on relationships. Leading with empathy—whether by listening to employees, understanding client needs, or collaborating with partners—has built trust and strengthened connections. Empathy is the foundation of a supportive culture and long-term success.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace growth and remain open-minded. Learn from mentors, adapt to change without clinging to old methods, and view obstacles as opportunities to evolve. Success comes from persistence, flexibility, and valuing the people who make your vision possible.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

One book that has profoundly influenced my personal and professional development is The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace Wattles. While it’s over a century old, the principles it lays out are timeless and deeply impactful.

One of the most valuable lessons from the book is the idea that wealth isn’t about competition but creation. Wattles emphasizes that there’s an abundance of opportunities, and success comes from focusing on building value rather than worrying about scarcity or what others are doing. This mindset shift helped me see challenges as opportunities to innovate and grow, rather than roadblocks.

Another impactful concept is the importance of acting in a certain way—approaching each day with purpose, focus, and gratitude. Wattles stresses that consistent, constructive action is what turns ideas into results. This principle has been a guiding force in my life, reminding me to stay disciplined and proactive, even when the road gets tough.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

In the photo of the podcast image, that’s m Eric Okon and my brother Michael Okon. On the photo with the 3 people, that’s Eric Okon, Phyllis Okon and Michael Okon.

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