Welcome to 5 O’Clock Reflections, a daily blog by Hemant Rustogi as he explores lessons learned in life, business, and his quest for wisdom. Each month Hemant invites a person who intrigues him, to join him for a 5 pm interview to share their insights over their favorite cocktail. You can learn more here.

On the Verge of a New School Year

I have noticed that the more I plan, the more effective I am. It is a bad idea to run a business on a wing and a prayer. Running a business randomly ensures random results. Ions ago, I started a business on a 'gut feel.' Not a good idea. Now, we … [Continue reading]

Employable Skills

Meet Mr. Brian Metz, VP for Business Development at Agile Thought, a custom software company in the Tampa Bay area. Brian serves on the Committee of Marketing Experts for the Marketing Department, at The University of Tampa. Over lunch, we … [Continue reading]

The Human Side of Sports

I confess that I am a sports junkie and rarely find a sport I don't enjoy or can't watch. The good news, is that the older I get, the losses stay in perspective. It is a game after all. I was watching the ESPY awards — that celebrates athletic … [Continue reading]

Stimulate Your Mind

Working in a University environment, I am surrounded by students seeking degrees that can help define careers and lives. As an educator, I believe that learning goes way beyond tests, grades, and pieces of paper that might celebrate academic … [Continue reading]