Every tech leader’s path is different, and some stories stand out for the values they reflect. Before becoming president of Net Friends, a Durham-based IT firm, Neelesh Patel got his start helping run his family’s motel and delivering pizzas. Those early experiences—grounded in hard work, family, and adaptability—shaped the values that continue to guide him today. In this episode of Freedom and Glory, Neelesh shares his journey from the son of immigrant entrepreneurs to launching tech ventures in San Francisco and Costa Rica, and ultimately finding purpose back home in North Carolina. 

Neelesh's story is about more than just entrepreneurship; it's about embracing change, staying grounded, and turning every setback into a setup for meaningful service. Let's take a closer look at Neelesh's journey and the defining moments that brought him to where he is today. To learn more, watch the Freedom and Glory podcast on YouTube. 

Neelesh Patel: Journey Beginnings 

Neelesh's life started out like many others, growing up in a happy, hardworking family. His father had immigrated to America with only $6 to his name and built his own motel business, working around the clock to keep his guests happy. 

Neelesh recalls, "My parents would take their breaks in the day or later on in the evening, like past 10 o'clock, and my sister and I would be running the motel. Right? Looking back on it, those experiences have really shaped a lot of how I behave today." It was during this time that Neelesh had his first experience with technology, watching the security monitors; these encounters would lay a foundation for his future. 

As he approached adulthood, Neelesh found himself at a crossroads—not just academically, but personally. After initially pursuing a biology degree with hopes of becoming a doctor, he began to feel disconnected from that path. He bounced between majors, unsure of what came next, and eventually found himself delivering pizzas, uncertain about his future.  

He explains, "I did know that I wanted to do something similar to what my parents did, owning my own business in some form, but not just own a business for the sake of owning it, but to be able to help as many people as I could.” It was this humanitarian mindset that would allow him to help others as he found success. 

Sensing his need for direction, Neelesh’s parents pulled him out of college and sent him on a backpacking trip through Spain—a reset that worked. After returning, a heart-to-heart with family and a visit to a college advisor, Neelesh decided to seek a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) certificate. Within six weeks, he completed the certification—kickstarting his tech career and helping him land his first job in the industry. 

Navigating the Dot Com Bubble and the Great Recession 

At one time, the tech industry was viewed as invincible. Neelesh, like many others, chose to capitalize on the opportunities. However, when the dot com bubble popped, many of those jobs were lost. As his employer was starting to lose business, they offered to let him keep one client, an interior design firm called Richard Pollen Associates, which he spun into his own business named Minoxi Networks after his mother. 

He recalls, "Because I had an end to this industry that wasn't necessarily dying, my company was able to thrive when other technology companies weren't. And it was a good thing because I had a lot of friends who were seriously struggling when the dot com bubble popped."  

Neelesh used this time to help his friends, which gave him a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It would also drive him to take another risk that would challenge his mindset and resolve. 

The Turning Point: Mental Health, Friendship, and Tough Calls 

At the height of his success with Minoxi Networks, Neelesh decided to take a risk and co-founded a new venture in Costa Rica, focusing on online gambling platforms. While trying to build this company, Neelesh would witness his co-founder and friends’ deteriorating mental health. It was his first encounter with the real-world impact mental health can have on a business. Unfortunately, it wouldn't be his last.  

In 2016, Net Friends was thriving. The team was close-knit and worked well together. However, tragedy struck when one member took his own life.  

"There was nothing in sight for any of us, and there was no way we could tell anything negative was happening in his life,” Neelesh said. “After his passing, of course, we learned a lot more about what was going on. He just didn't have all the support systems.” 

The impact of this tragedy changed how Neelesh ran Net Friends. He developed a culture of support and openness that has saved numerous lives within the company. The emphasis on mental health is truly transforming the way tech companies operate.  

How to Support Mental Health in the Workplace 

Mental health in the workplace is a crucial topic that is only starting to get the recognition it deserves. Supporting your employers and employees can truly save lives. A few ways companies can support mental health in the workplace: 

• Create a culture of communication and openness 
• Offer mental health resources 
• Train employees to recognize mental health concerns 
• Promote a healthy work/ life balance 

Mental health advocacy is especially important if you employ veterans, as they are five times more likely to experience depression than civilians. Listening to those going through mental health issues is so powerful. You should avoid trying to solve their problems or offering religious solutions if you don't share the same beliefs. Showing support through understanding and acceptance can sometimes mean the difference between life and death. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or ideas, please call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. The line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Showcase the American Dream with Carrot-Top 

Neelesh's journey reflects the American spirit of unity, opportunity, and resilience. Carrot-Top is proud to support the Freedom and Glory podcast and believes every flag tells a story, just like Neelesh. Create a stunning patriotic display with a quality American flag and honor the purpose and perseverance of the American dream.