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The Devil’s Vortex: How To Kill Scaling & Your Soul

In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and leadership, there lurks a hidden peril known as the “Devil’s Vortex.” This daunting phenomenon represents the overwhelming challenges and burnout that leaders and entrepreneurs often face, yet many step into it willingly, unaware of its subtle entrapment.

The Devil’s Vortex is more than just a metaphorical hazard; it’s a stark reality where one’s efforts seem to spiral into chaos, yielding minimal impact. In contrast, the “Genius Zone” offers a sanctuary of productivity and satisfaction, where one’s unique strengths and deepest passions intersect, creating a harmonious blend of success and fulfillment.

More Than Just the Right Person in the Right Seat (aka Why You Are Only Getting a 40% On This Test)

In the realm of corporate recruitment, the commonly espoused idea of finding the “right person for the right seat on the bus” is a well-known concept. However, Matthew Porter, a seasoned entrepreneur and former CEO, argues that this mantra, while valuable, only addresses two out of five critical components for successful hiring. He emphasizes that these two factors, though important, may not capture the depth needed for a successful employment relationship.

Porter introduces a more comprehensive approach to recruitment that involves considering the right company, person, seat, time, and cost. He believes that companies should take responsibility for ensuring a genuine match between the organization and the candidate, emphasizing that it’s not just about suitability but a deeper alignment of values, culture, and vision.

Quit Bankrupting Your Business: The Value of Time in Growing a Business

In the hustle and bustle of the world, time is often the most overlooked resource. Yet, it is the one thing that, once spent, can never be regained. Seneca, the Roman philosopher, aptly said, “We’re tight-fisted with property and money, yet think too little of wasting time, the one thing about which we should allContinue reading “Quit Bankrupting Your Business: The Value of Time in Growing a Business”

The Art of Writing Effective Board of Director Reports: A Future, Present, Past Narrative

A few years back, a peer saw a copy of a Board of Directors report I submitted as CEO of a company. A Powerpoint presentation accompanied the report, but the report itself had piqued her interest. She specifically wanted to know the reasoning behind the order of topics. Clarity and precision are paramount when communicatingContinue reading “The Art of Writing Effective Board of Director Reports: A Future, Present, Past Narrative”

Unmasking Dissent: Loyalty in Disguise

Breaking the Ice: Bridging Dissent and Loyalty If you’ve ever found yourself holding back a contrary opinion at work, or biting your tongue during a heated family dinner, you’re not alone. The idea of dissent is often shrouded in fear and misunderstanding. However, when I read Ozan Varol‘s telling of Netflix’s 2011 Qwikster saga regardingContinue reading “Unmasking Dissent: Loyalty in Disguise”

Rethinking the December Rush: Why December Strategic Planning Is Probably Ineffective & Lacks Compassion

Every year, the holiday season rolls around, and with it often comes the daunting task of annual strategic planning. Traditionally conducted in December, this practice, upon closer examination, may be less than ideal. Let’s dive into why a rethink may be in order (aka. Why I hate this practice and your team probably does, too.)Continue reading “Rethinking the December Rush: Why December Strategic Planning Is Probably Ineffective & Lacks Compassion”

A Lesson on Leadership from a Chick-Fil-A Manager

One thing I love about suburbia is Chick-Fil-A. Thankfully, one recently opened up near our house which has led to a trip 1-2 times per week. We are not the only ones hitting the new addition to the neighborhood. It is slaughtering my predominantly vegetarian diet. This place is always busy… except Sunday (of course).Continue reading “A Lesson on Leadership from a Chick-Fil-A Manager”