Available June 9th
EGO STRENGTH
BETTING ON MYSELF
A True Story of Risk, Resilience, and Results
Ego Strength offers something for everyone—whether you're an entrepreneur, coach, mentor, or just getting started in your career. It’s a raw, honest look at what it takes to bet on yourself, face failure head-on, and keep pushing forward. If you're driven to grow, lead, and leave a lasting impact, this story will resonate.
CHUCK CUDA
Chuck Cuda is a successful entrepreneur, commercial real estate expert, and philanthropist based in Kansas City, Missouri. As the founder of OPES Commercial Real Estate, Chuck has played a key role in the company's rapid success, personally completing over $440 million in transactions since inception. OPES is regularly recognized as one of Kansas City's top brokerage firms, exceeding $80 million in annual transaction volume. Chuck's focus on client relationships and market knowledge has been integral to the company's growth.
Beyond real estate, Chuck has built a diverse portfolio of businesses, including investments in real estate, property management, construction, healthcare, professional employers’ organization (PEO) and cannabis. As CEO of Elevation Cannabis, he has overseen the company's expansion from five licenses to 26 across three states, driving growth in both medical and adult-use markets. Chuck's ability to scale businesses and lead through complex transitions has made him a respected figure in the cannabis industry.
Chuck is also deeply committed to philanthropy. He founded the OPES Charitable Foundation in 2018, which has raised over $4 million for causes such as cancer research, MS foundation, paralysis research and therapy, autism, and several other local community organizations and families in need. The foundation's Green Tie Gala has raised over $600,000 in a single event, supporting medical research and community initiatives. Chuck is also involved in local boards, including the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society – now Blood Cancer United, and the Tommy Simone Memorial Foundation, and he gives back through other non-profits including Naturals Baseball Club, youth baseball coaching and mentoring.
A devoted Catholic, Chuck credits his faith, family, and commitment to continuous improvement for his success. He lives in Kansas City with his wife Annamarie and their four children, balancing his professional ambitions with a deep commitment to his family and community. Chuck's journey is driven by a desire to make a positive impact and build a lasting legacy of service and achievement.