Neils Cotter is a seasoned investment and development expert with a vast background in domestically and abroad strategic ventures. Educated at Duke University and further refined with an MBA from INSEAD, Neils offers a unique blend of local understanding and global perspective. His commitment to service is reflected in his tenure as a Captain in the United States Air Force, where he reflected the core values of leadership and dedication. Beyond his corporate roles, Neils is deeply committed to philanthropy.
He has served on the Board of Ronald McDonald, and continues to guide the expansion of the U.S.’s largest camps for children fighting cancer. This sense of community also led him to a significant collaboration with Dorsey High School in the South LA neighborhood of Los Angeles. Together, they pioneered the ‘Dorsey Green Sauce’ project. This venture empowered the local economy and served as an educational platform for students.
What is one habit that helps you be productive?
Perseverance.
What is the one thing you repeatedly do and recommend everyone else do?
Continue getting guidance from amazing mentors.
What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business or advance in your career?
Working with amazing partners who complement skills
Do you have a favorite book or podcast you’ve gotten a ton of value from and why?
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius as the wisdom is eye-opening.
“It is not death that a man should fear, but he should fear never beginning to live.”
― Marcus Aurelius, Meditations
Steve (Stefan) Junge hails from Germany and helps with the day-to-day publishing of interviews on IdeaMensch. While he and Mario don’t share a favorite soccer club, their enthusiasm to help entrepreneurs is a shared passion.