In this insightful interview, we sit down with Jorge, an educator and consultant whose lifelong commitment to teaching has impacted countless individuals. From his early days of giving lessons to children to his transformative work in financial education and risk management, Jorge’s passion for empowering others shines through. He shares his journey, philosophy, and advice on how education and emotional resilience can drive success in both personal and professional spheres.
A Lifelong Passion for Teaching.
Jorge: I discovered my passion for teaching early in life. At 12, I gave lessons to younger children during the summer, and by 16, I was teaching English to my mother and aunt. At 20, I became a teaching assistant at the University of Buenos Aires. Teaching became the thread that connected every chapter of my life, whether I was helping family members learn to drive or swim, mentoring in film and television production, or educating professionals in risk management. It’s a calling that shaped not just my career but who I am.
A Lifelong Commitment to Empowering Through Education
Jorge: My passion for education stems from a natural inclination to help others grow, starting in my childhood and evolving into a defining element of my career. My roles at Glencore and Aluar, my work as an educator at the London Metal Exchange, and even as a Kundalini Yoga instructor have all reaffirmed my dedication to empowering others through teaching. Consultancy, too, is a form of education for me, where I aim to guide and eventually let go, enabling clients to thrive independently
Clarifying the Misconception Between Hedging and Speculation in Risk Management
Jorge: The most common misconception is confusing hedging with speculation. Many people mistakenly believe that hedging is a form of speculation, when in fact, it is the complete opposite. Hedging is like using an umbrella to protect yourself from the rain, where the risk is “getting wet.” The risk of getting wet could lead to catching a cold, getting sick, being unable to work, and so on—this is the chain of risks. Speculating, in this metaphor, would be assuming it won’t rain, choosing not to carry an umbrella, and avoiding the hassle of carrying it all day.
Empowering Better Financial Decisions Through TEACH4LIFE
Jorge: Through TEACH4LIFE, I combine technical expertise with coaching techniques, such as role-playing real market scenarios and incorporating mindfulness. This approach not only develops participants’ technical skills but also enhances their emotional intelligence and critical thinking abilities, ensuring they are well equipped to make informed and strategic financial decisions.
The Inspiring Lesson of Adapting to Each Student’s Unique Journey
Jorge: It is incredibly inspiring to witness everything my students achieve. However, it’s always a challenge to set the goal of ensuring each student understands 100% of the content. This challenge lies in balancing each student’s self-discipline with my ability to adapt to their unique needs. My philosophy is simple: “Perfect is when it is possible.” If something is not possible, it cannot be considered perfect—it exceeds the boundaries of what can realistically be achieved.
Leaving a Legacy of Empowerment in Education, Risk Management, and Financial Consulting
Jorge: I aim to leave a legacy of empowerment—teaching others to succeed independently and think critically. Through my upcoming book, “To Hedge or Not to Hedge,” and my work at TEACH4LIFE, I hope to inspire individuals to blend technical expertise with emotional intelligence, creating a new generation of confident and adaptable professionals.
Shaping the Future of TEACH4LIFE and Expanding Financial Education for the Next Generation
Jorge: The primary goal is to expand knowledge and impact younger generations, allowing even adolescents to discover the world of commodity trading and risk management. In this vein, we hope to publish my upcoming book this year, the first book I’ve written on financial topics. It is comprehensive, containing 54 cases, and serves as a detailed manual. Its title is “To Hedge or Not to Hedge, That Is the Question: Mastering Futures and Options in Base Metals to Become a Trader.”
Making Complex Financial Concepts Accessible Through Engaging Teaching Methods
Jorge: My teaching philosophy centers on making learning engaging and accessible. By integrating storytelling, practical examples, and strategies from my background in film production, I create dynamic learning experiences. I also use role-playing and real-world scenarios to simplify complex financial topics, ensuring students not only understand the concepts but also feel confident applying them.
TEACH4LIFE’s Mission is to Empower Through Financial Knowledge and Resilience
Jorge: TEACH4LIFE’s mission is to empower individuals and organizations with the knowledge and tools to make sound financial decisions. It combines my decades of experience in risk management, trading, and education to create customized programs that address the unique needs of each client, fostering both professional growth and resilience.
Strengthening Risk Management Through Adaptability, Technology, and Emotional Resilience
Jorge: Adaptability and mental flexibility are crucial. Businesses must embrace technological advancements like AI while maintaining a clear strategic vision. A calm and flexible mindset enables precise decision-making, a principle I integrate into my coaching by using techniques from Kundalini Yoga to foster physical and mental balance. Success in risk management lies in the balance between technical knowledge and emotional resilience.
The End:
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Jorge for sharing his invaluable experiences and perspectives with us. His passion for education and empowering others continues to inspire those he works with, and his innovative approach to both teaching and risk management is truly exceptional. We look forward to seeing how his work, especially with TEACH4LIFE, will shape the future of financial education and professional growth.
