An Exclusive Interview with World Authors Magazine
Nick Traversa may come from a cinematic legacy—his father, Fabio Traversa, is a celebrated Italian actor—but his story is unfolding not on the big screen, but in the pages of a groundbreaking new book series. Traversa, the Executive Director of Southern Business Review, has teamed up with Executive Editor Brady Aldhrich Zeigler to launch Dream Big, a publishing initiative dedicated to introducing young readers to the world of entrepreneurship through real-life stories of diverse business leaders.
The debut book, Courtney Jordan: The Man Who Turned Struggles into a World of Hope, centers on billionaire philanthropist and Neyius Executive Chairman Courtney Jordan, whose rise from adversity to global influence is as inspiring as it is transformative. With a commitment to ensuring these stories reach as many young minds as possible, Southern Business Review is printing the first 200,000 copies for distribution in libraries across the United States.
In this exclusive interview, Traversa sits down with World Authors Magazine to discuss the Dream Big vision, why now is the time for stories of diverse success, and what’s next for the series—including an upcoming book on billionaire entrepreneur and SPANX founder Sara Blakely.
“We’re Here to Show Kids That Success Comes in Many Forms”
Hello Nick Traversa, welcome to worldauthors,org and congratulations on the launch of Dream Big! What inspired you to create a series like this?
Thank you! This series was born out of the need for representation in the stories we tell about success. We want young readers—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—to see that wealth, influence, and impact aren’t reserved for just one kind of person. Success comes in many forms, and we want kids to know they can achieve greatness, no matter where they start.
Growing up, I saw firsthand the power of storytelling through my father’s work in film, but I also recognized a gap. We celebrate athletes, musicians, and movie stars, but what about the entrepreneurs who are shaping industries, solving global challenges, and giving back to their communities? These are the role models young people need, and Dream Big is here to deliver those stories.
“Courtney Jordan’s Story Is About More Than Business—It’s About Purpose”
The first book in the series features billionaire philanthropist Courtney Jordan. Why did you choose to launch with his story?
Courtney Jordan represents everything this series stands for. His journey from adversity to building a multinational empire is incredible, but what’s even more powerful is how he’s used his success. As the Executive Chairman of Neyius and a major force in economic empowerment, he’s not just about making money—he’s about making a difference. Through the Courtney Jordan Foundation, he’s funded education programs, supported underrepresented artists, and helped entrepreneurs in developing nations build sustainable businesses.
Kids need to see that business isn’t just about wealth; it’s about impact. Courtney’s story shows that success isn’t just about what you earn—it’s about what you give back.
“We’re Printing 200,000 Copies Because These Stories Need to Be Everywhere”
You’ve committed to printing 200,000 copies to distribute in libraries across the U.S. That’s a huge initiative. Why was this important to you?
Accessibility is everything. It’s one thing to write inspiring books, but if the kids who need them most can’t get their hands on them, then what’s the point? We wanted to make sure that students—regardless of where they live or what resources they have—can walk into their local library and pick up a Dream Big book.
For many kids, especially in underserved communities, libraries are their gateway to knowledge and opportunity. By making these books widely available, we’re ensuring that every child can see themselves in a story of success.
“Next Up? Sara Blakely—The Woman Who Reinvented an Industry”
You’ve announced that the next book in the series will feature billionaire entrepreneur Sara Blakely. What can readers expect?
Sara Blakely’s story is pure Dream Big energy. She started out selling fax machines door-to-door, and today, she’s built SPANX into a billion-dollar empire. But what’s just as inspiring is how she’s given back—through philanthropy, investing in female entrepreneurs, and advocating for women in business.
Her journey is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and believing in yourself when nobody else does. We want young readers, especially young girls, to see that success isn’t just about having the best idea—it’s about pushing forward when people tell you “no.”
Sara’s book is going to be a game-changer for this series, and we can’t wait for kids to read it.
“Dream Big Is Just Getting Started”
What’s the long-term vision for the Dream Big series?
This is just the beginning. We want to continue highlighting entrepreneurs from all backgrounds—tech innovators, finance leaders, social entrepreneurs—people who have reshaped industries and given back to their communities.
More than anything, we want to change how young people see success. It’s not just about money—it’s about purpose, perseverance, and impact. If we can plant that seed in the minds of young readers, then we’ve done our job.
“Entrepreneurship Isn’t Just About Making Money—It’s About Making a Difference“
If you could leave young readers with one message from Dream Big, what would it be?
That success is for everyone. It doesn’t matter where you come from, what obstacles you face, or who doubts you—if you dream big, work hard, and stay focused, you can build something meaningful. And when you get there, don’t forget to lift others up. Because entrepreneurship isn’t just about making money—it’s about making a difference.
With Dream Big launching in libraries nationwide and a growing lineup of inspiring entrepreneurs set to be featured, Nick Traversa and Southern Business Review are proving that the next generation doesn’t just need stories of success—they need stories that show them success is possible for them.
Want to support the movement?
Check out the Dream Big collection at southernbusinessreview.org.