Michele Simonato

Cofounder, Empatica

Search every verified Michele Simonato interview, podcast appearance, and on-the-record quote — each transcript cross-checked by AI and human review to confirm speaker identity. In a 2016 TEDx talk, Michele Simonato, cofounder of Empatica, discussed his decision to step away from a demanding career as a CEO and professor to create "space" in his life. He described realizing that his work schedule would have left him with only 4.5 years for personal pursuits over a 50-year period, and questioned whether spending more time on social media than on passions was worthwhile. Simonato recounted becoming a monk in Japan and walking the Shikoku pilgrimage, stating that by working "smarter instead of harder," his results improved both financially and in productivity. Simonato argued that "the system that is imposing a standard time-cake for everybody doesn't make any sense" and that individuals should find their own balance. He emphasized that "we are our time" and that time is the only resource that cannot be bought back. He attributed his perspective to advice from his grandmother and mother, who told him to "stay true to yourself, and never, ever allow your fears to become stronger than your dreams."