#PeopleYouShouldKnow: Stephen Levin

ICYMI

?? I recently started the #PeopleYouShouldKnow series to highlight a few incredible people I've had the chance to meet or catch up with recently. They're all brilliant and shine in unique ways, and I think everyone should know about them—hence the name of this series!

You can learn more about why I started this interview series and read my first several interviews here:

• Ashley Rudolph - executive coach and therapy dog volunteer
• Alexis Puchek - design leader and birder
• Andre Plaut - learning designer and magic aficionado
• Susie Hall - design community leader and builder
• Jully Kim - technology excellence leader and succulent cultivator

Ready for the next one?

Meet Stephen

Stephen Levin and I go back to our college days (Wahoowa!) And boy, has he been busy since then.

He started his career developing high-level aviation metric dashboards for use by the FAA and airlines while co-founding another startup. He then led data analytics at a few other companies before making his mark as an early employee at Zapier. Now, he's leading operations for Flashbots in the blockchain space.

Stephen's a do-er, a data guy, and a people person. This article he published in 2017 on "Growth Hacking Your Job Search" is a beautiful example of his hustle, analytical brain, and zeal for helping others.

I'm so glad to know him and am excited for you to meet him!

In Stephen's words...

?? What are you a product of? ??

High expectations. My parents set the bar high, I set it even higher for myself, and I expect the best from everyone around me. I buy into the Pygmalion effect—higher expectations drive better performance. It’s a fine line to walk, balancing high standards with the right support when things get tough, but it’s how I roll.

?? What’s something about you that’s not on your resume? ??

I can’t do things casually. Whether it’s a video game, a sport, or a job, I’m all in. I’m the guy who does data analysis and research to maximize video games, pushes to win in sports, and aims to make a massive impact at work. My wife laughs at how I can go from being obsessed with something to dropping it cold turkey. That’s just how I’m wired—full throttle or nothing.

?? What accomplishment are you most proud of? ??

Sure, I’ve done well in academics, sports, and work. But recently, the highlight was during a job interview process when the recruiter said I had some of the best references he’d ever heard. That hit home because it means I’m not just succeeding solo but doing it in a way that people respect and support. Winning is great, but winning with a team that’s got your back? That’s next level.

?? What are you working on now that you’re most excited about? ??

Flashbots's long-term vision. We’re a big player in the Crypto and Ethereum world, and after a slow year, we’re setting up for a major comeback. I see us not just making waves in our usual space but also potentially shaking up broader infrastructure tech. It’s a bold vision, and I’m stoked to be part of it. Keep an eye out if you’re in technology. You might see us!

?? Stay in touch with Stephen!

Want to get in touch with Stephen and/or follow his work? He's most active on Twitter @smlevin11 and Linkedin.