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Bernard Porter on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Bernard Porter. Check out our conversation below.

Good morning Bernard, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
Each morning, I start with gratitude, taking a moment to acknowledge the blessings in my life and greet the day with a calm, hopeful heart. I say a quiet prayer for guidance, strength, and clarity to navigate whatever comes my way, setting a positive intention for the hours ahead. I savor a cup of good black coffee, letting its aroma and warmth anchor me in the present moment, before turning inward for meditation that centers my breath, quiets my mind, and cultivates focus. I hydrate with at least 12 ounces of water to wake the body and support vitality, and I enjoy a light but healthy breakfast to nourish rather than weigh me down. I then map out the day, outlining the key tasks and priorities, so my actions align with my purpose. On alternating days, I commit to at least 30 minutes of exercise—whether in the gym or at home—to energize the body, elevate mood, and reinforce discipline as the foundation for the day’s work.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a husband a father of five and grandfather to two, and family is everything to me. I’m the CEO of PCG Universal, which encompasses seven different business verticals spanning entertainment, restaurants, technology, luxury brands, and more, driving growth, innovation, and lasting value.
My strength is in building teams and seeing talent in people. Then nurturing those talents to help build and support the companies. All this centered around strong core values in business and in people.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I’ve been shaped by many mentors who saw something in me early on and helped me become who I am today. I’ve always listened intensely, learning from every guidance and challenge. This is my education in the world. I grew up without a father, and those formative experiences taught me resilience, humility, and the importance of lifting others as I rise.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?

There were moments when I felt utterly alone—no family to fall back on, no safety net, out in the world at a very early age with only my own resolve to rely on. In those times the question wasn’t whether I could keep going, but whether I would survive if I didn’t. That sense of isolation forged a Do or Die mentality: failure wasn’t an option, and every setback only sharpened my focus. My ambition and drive carried me forward, but so did my faith. God Almighty has been with me through the darkest days, offering strength, guidance, and a sense that I was never truly alone on this journey. That combination of relentless effort and unwavering faith transformed hardship into a catalyst for growth, resilience, and a deeper purpose.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
The truths that matter most begin with God as my foundation. A personal relationship with Him shapes who I am and how I show up in the world. I can’t take full credit for my success; I strive to acknowledge His guidance and to give credit where it’s due. I want to encourage others to strengthen their relationship with the Almighty, as faith provides purpose, resilience, and perspective. In my dealings with others, I’m committed to honesty, integrity, and building trusted, ethical relationships—treating people with respect, keeping promises, and pursuing win-win outcomes. These truths—faith, humility, integrity, and service—guide my choices every day.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I’m happily married to a wonderful woman and partner. We live in a southern mansion built in 1833 that we are renovating, that’s now a museum. We love sharing the history and being the caretakers. I wouldn’t change much about who I am or what I’m doing. I’m deeply content with my purpose: to mentor, lift others, and leave a positive impact. That purpose already feels like a legacy in motion. When I come face-to-face with the Almighty one day, I want Him to say, “Well done, son,” for that will be my ultimate measure of a life well lived.

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Image Credits
Images taken and owned by Bernard Porter

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