Dave Peery

Dave Peery is cool.

Dave Peery runs a philanthropic organization called the Peery Foundation that partners with the Ballard Center for Innovation at BYU.

I initiated conversation with Dave after having met with Caleb Weiler of Dark Horse Ventures. Dave has a very cool demeanor that reflects both his intellect as well as his kind and gentle heart. You’d expect that from someone who runs one of the most successful philanthropic venture groups in the world. Granted, most of Dave’s giving is actually wholly philanthropic and gives with no expectation of return.

My conversation with Dave was focused primarily on getting some validation on the idea we have with Dark Horse Ventures. However, I’d like to point out some of the really great advice I got from Dave.

Dave told me some of his story, and of how he felt he’d been put on the path he was on for a reason. Dave told me about how he wanted to learn the trade of his father, Dick Peery, after his mission. So, Dave spent 3 years at BYU cranking out a degree in Latin American Studies. With a college degree and a huge desire to make a positive impact on the world, Dave set out to learn about real-estate. After that, he did everything he could to get the Peery Foundation involved with the most important social innovation in the world.

After having explained where I was in my education and my desire to become an entrepreneur, Dave told me, “Make sure to go all-in with whatever you choose to do. You’ll learn more that way”. He also mentioned that whatever I chose to study should be something I enjoy, and something that I can hopefully use in the future. Dave, for example, has used lots of his Spanish since working with the Peery Foundation. He travels to South America quite often, in fact.

Thanks Dave for your insights and help in ironing out what I want to do with my career! I know better now how to move forward with my life plans - it’s going to be a blast!