Meet Sami Toussi | Business & Life Strategist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sami Toussi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sami, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
One piece of conventional advice that I often find myself disagreeing with is the notion that success is solely dependent on working hard.

While diligence is undoubtedly important, I believe that true success requires more than just effort. In my practice, I encapsulate success through a framework I’ve coined as RPP™ (Results, Purpose, Planning). This entails not only setting clear goals and a vision (Results) but also delving into the deeper understanding of one’s purpose (Purpose), followed by the meticulous crafting of strategic plans to navigate the most efficient path towards those objectives (Planning). Prioritization is also crucial—knowing which tasks will have the greatest impact and focusing on them first. Merely working hard without this strategic approach and prioritization can lead to burnout and inefficiency.

Therefore, I advocate for a more holistic approach that integrates hard work, SMART strategic planning, and prioritization as essential components to achieving success.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My journey with Sami Toussi International stems from the struggles I faced growing up and the pivotal moments that led me to where I am today. I grew up feeling like I needed to follow the safe path of earning good grades, being a “go-getter” and following all the rules. After graduating from my dream school, UCLA, I landed a career in a prestigious, male-dominated field in the corporate sector.

Before I knew it, I was a 25 year old expat living in Dubai, managing a large team, leading board meetings and jet-setting around the world. But internally, I was crumbling. I felt like I was living a life that wasn’t truly mine, driven by the need for external validation and societal approval.

The turning point came when the strain of this facade began to manifest in my physical and mental health. I decided it was enough. I couldn’t continue down this path of unhappiness and conformity. It was time to rewrite my story, to redefine what success meant to me, not to others.

So, I did exactly that. I made the decision to press pause on my story so I could start a new one rooted in purpose and authenticity. Drawing from over a decade of experience in launching businesses, project management, and understanding human behavior, complemented by two coaching certifications and over 16,000 hours of coaching, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to pursue my passion today.

At Sami Toussi International, we empower small business owners and new entrepreneurs to create thriving ventures from their ideas. We nurture their strengths and passions, freeing them from societal expectations. Whether pursuing entrepreneurship or career fulfillment, we guide them to craft their own stories and build impactful businesses.

How did you get to where you are today business-wise. Was it easy?
Starting my business and career coaching practice was a real rollercoaster. I was constantly asking myself, “What the hell am I doing?” Being someone who thrives on efficiency, I felt completely lost at times, not knowing where to start or what to prioritize. With my background in business, I could draft a business plan and establish operational protocols, but getting clients? That took persistence, and a whole ton of failure too.

I still remember my first workshop vividly. It was at a co-working space when I was living in Dubai. Only one person showed up. Just one. Yet, I gave that one person the best experience I could. I had to get creative, think on my feet, and make the most out of every situation. It wasn’t easy, but I hustled hard, gathered content, made it look like there were more people in the room and even managed to snag a video testimonial. I did whatever it took with the resources I had at hand. Additionally, investing in a business coach was a game-changer. The guidance and support helped me navigate through the rough patches and set the stage for my success.

Now, fast forward to today, and I’m grateful beyond words for the incredible clients I get to business coach. I’ve been on this journey with them for years, watching them grow, evolve, and achieve amazing things. From doubling their revenue to expanding their teams and launching innovative products, it’s been a wild ride. And what lights me up the most? Being able to be a part of their journey, guiding them with strategy, passion, and a whole lot of action.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Our mornings would kick off with the sun peeking over the Palisades as we’d cruise up for a dose of nature at Temescal Canyon or Will Rogers. Sweaty and satisfied, we’d pedal our way through a Brentwood Soulcycle class, then grab a cup of coffee at Santa Monica’s local gems, Primo Passo or Bardonna, followed by a leisurely stroll through the Sunday’s Brentwood farmers market.

In between, we’d soak up art at LACMA, take a stroll through my alma matter, UCLA, unwind with Mon Ami’s cozy happy hour vibes by the ocean, and toast the day’s adventures with sunset drinks at Shutters.

Nights would find us dancing through the vibrant beats of WeHo, exploring the quirky charm of Abbott Kinney, and cracking up at the timeless humor of the Comedy Store before catching a show in the eclectic vibe of Silverlake.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
You know, I owe a lot to my dad—he’s been my rock, always nudging me towards starting my own business. He’s the kind of person who truly values career and has never stopped believing in my potential for success. He’s given me the space to find my own path, and let me tell you, the man’s got wisdom for days! And then there’s my best friend, Lauren Vahdani. She’s not just a friend; she’s like the sister I never had (and trust me, being an only child, I’ve always craved that sibling connection). We bounce ideas off each other, strategize together, and her support means the world to me. Honestly, my friends and family—they’re everything. They’re the ones who keep me grounded and motivated, and I couldn’t imagine this journey without them by my side.

Website: www.samitoussi.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samitoussi/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samitoussi/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samitoussicoaching

Yelp: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vj22R6ENEYQ5rfo96

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@samitoussi

Image Credits
Daphne Yuanadis