Authorities Unplugged Radio with Dr. Emilio Justo
- S1E18
- 31:57
- August 4th 2025
Dr. Emilio Justo — The Power of Pause and the Gift of Grit
Episode Summary
In this inspiring episode of the "Celebrity Edition" with Dr. Allen Lycka, we meet Dr. Emilio Justo—an acclaimed ophthalmologist, author, and TEDx speaker whose story is a powerful tribute to resilience, grit, and personal growth. From escaping Cuba as a child to mastering the American dream, Dr. Justo’s life is full of valuable lessons on success, failure, and the strength to rise again.
From Cuban Roots to Medical Heights
Dr. Justo shares the incredible story of immigrating to the U.S. at age three with nothing but determination and love. Despite language and financial challenges, his family instilled strong values of education and perseverance. Emilio excelled in school, becoming valedictorian and one of just ten students accepted into the University of Michigan’s six-year medical program. He completed his medical degree by 23 and launched a thriving career in Arizona.
Overcoming Physical and Emotional Trials
Behind his professional achievements lies a childhood filled with hardship. A severe case of acne led to prolonged illness and multiple facial surgeries during his formative years. Yet, Dr. Justo refused to be defined by scars—both physical and emotional. He candidly reflects on how resilience, acceptance, and self-worth helped him overcome societal judgments and personal insecurities.
The Power of Pause and Delayed Gratification
Dr. Justo’s viral TEDx talk, Delayed Gratification: Your Superpower to Success, and his book The Power of Pause explore the life-changing potential of patience and long-term thinking. He discusses how the pause—an intentional step back—can help us navigate life’s toughest decisions and avoid rash, regrettable choices. He emphasizes that delayed gratification is a muscle that can be trained, especially crucial in today’s instant-gratification world.
Obsession as a Positive Force
In his second TEDx talk, Unleashing the Drive Within, Dr. Justo reframes obsession not as a flaw but as an asset. He argues that when directed toward purpose-driven goals, obsession fuels innovation, excellence, and personal growth. Success isn’t a zero-sum game, and he encourages a mindset of abundance—where one person’s win can uplift others too.
Legacy, Leadership, and Lessons Learned
Dr. Justo reflects on parenting, his marriage of over 20 years, and the value of learning from failures—including near financial ruin in his 40s. He credits his wife’s support and his immigrant upbringing for shaping his character. He remains grounded by his parents’ sacrifices and takes pride in paying it forward through teaching, patient care, and mentorship.
Connect with Dr. Emilio Justo
To learn more or get in touch, visit www.drEmilioJusto.com or email him at [email protected]. You’ll find links to his TEDx talks, book, and resources for both patients and fellow physicians.
Tune In and Be Inspired
Whether you're chasing a dream, rebuilding after failure, or simply seeking guidance on living fully, this episode will speak to your heart and mind. Don’t miss Dr. Justo’s incredible insights on the power of pause, purpose, and perseverance.
BIO:
Dr Emilio Justo. Now, Emilio has a very interesting past. He emigrated from Cuba as a boy, and he worked his way up through the medical establishment to become one of the most esteemed physicians in the world. But Emilio is not just one dimensional. He is multi-dimensional because he's done a TEDx talk that has had 1000s, if not, millions of visitors now, so it's amazing to see my friend Emilio and how he's climbed the ladder to where he is now
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