Podcast

A Founder's Life:

Balancing Entrepreneurship, Family, Health, & Fun​

Podcast

A Founder's Life:

Balancing Entrepreneurship, Family, Health, & Fun​

The Leadership Habits That Changed My Career Forever - Jorge Velasco - S7 - E2

Business leadership isn’t just about making decisions, it’s about inspiring people, staying curious, and learning to remain calm when the pressure is at its highest.

In this episode of A Founder’s Life, Leo Gestetner sits down with Jorge Velasco, President and CEO of BR Printers, to explore a remarkable career spanning more than four decades in publishing, printing, and executive leadership.

From growing up in a family of publishers in Mexico to leading one of America’s largest book printers, Jorge shares how his passion for books evolved into a lifelong commitment to helping ideas reach millions of readers. His perspective on business leadership, mentorship, culture, and personal growth offers timeless lessons for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

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Guest Info

Jorge Velasco is the President and CEO of BR Printers, one of the largest privately held book manufacturers and distributors in the United States. With more than 40 years of experience in the printing, publishing, and educational materials industry, Jorge has dedicated his career to helping publishers, educators, and organizations bring ideas to life through the printed word.

Originally from Mexico City, Jorge grew up in a family of publishers, where his lifelong passion for books began at an early age. Although he earned a degree in Economics, he always knew his future would be in publishing. Over the past four decades, he has held leadership roles across sales, operations, customer service, distribution, and executive management, building a deep understanding of every stage of the publishing supply chain.

Today, Jorge leads BR Printers, which operates six manufacturing facilities across the United States and employs more than 400 people. Under his leadership, the company specializes in printing and distributing books, educational materials, direct mail, and promotional products while serving publishers, school districts, and organizations nationwide.

Beyond the business itself, Jorge is a passionate advocate for literacy, education, and the free exchange of ideas. He believes printers play an essential role in preserving freedom of speech by ensuring that every voice and every story has the opportunity to reach readers, regardless of viewpoint.

Outside of work, Jorge is an avid traveler, cyclist, and lifelong learner. He and his wife, Monica, have been married for more than three decades and share a passion for exploring new cultures around the world. A dedicated Peloton rider and enthusiastic LEGO builder, Jorge believes the best leaders never stop learning, mentoring others, or finding new ways to stay curious—both professionally and personally.

About this Episode

Business leadership isn’t just about making decisions; it’s about inspiring people, staying curious, and learning to remain calm when the pressure is at its highest.

In this episode of A Founder’s Life, Leo Gestetner sits down with Jorge Velasco, President and CEO of BR Printers, to explore a remarkable career spanning more than four decades in publishing, printing, and executive leadership.

From growing up in a family of publishers in Mexico to leading one of America’s largest book printers, Jorge shares how his passion for books evolved into a lifelong commitment to helping ideas reach millions of readers. His perspective on business leadership, mentorship, culture, and personal growth offers timeless lessons for entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

Highlights

Early Career: Grew up in a publishing family in Mexico before building a 40-year career in the printing and publishing industry.

Big Challenge: Navigating the digital transformation of publishing while leading organizations through periods of major industry change.

Turning Point: Discovering that leadership is built through mentorship, trust, and empowering great teams.

Personal Growth: Developed healthier habits during COVID through cycling, fitness, travel, and intentional routines.

Business Success: Leads BR Printers, operating six facilities and serving publishers, educators, and businesses across the United States.

Core Philosophy: Great business leadership comes from staying curious, building exceptional teams, mentoring others, and remembering to breathe before making important decisions.

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