Hello, Mr. Lenon!

Let’s start with you:

• What is your business?
  

Magic Wings and Things. There are two locations. We have the best chicken wings, burgers, cheese Steaks, and more, in town! Oh, you should try our home-made lemonade and Pineapple-Lemonade! 

• How long have you been in restaurant business?

More than 20 years. 

• What inspired you to start your business?

I knew how to cook for a long time and had worked as a chef in a couple of restaurants. Before, starting these restaurants I was a real estate agent. When the real estate market took a downturn in 2000, I decided to go into the food business. I started with a food trailer at a nightclub. Later I purchased a restaurant that was not doing well. Now I have two locations!

• So, you are entrepreneurial minded person?

I think so! I always look for ways of doing anything better and the opportunities out there. There are a lot of opportunities out there. You have to find the once that fit you the best.  

• What motivates you every day? Life.

Spending time with my wife. Travels. Since I spend so much time in my businesses perhaps retiring one day (he laughs).  

Let’s talk business:

• What has been the most surprising challenge you have faced so far (other than Covid19)?

The mindset of the young workers. When we were growing up, we had to work to get what we want. But the new generation gets what they want from their parents. Their parents take care of them. Their parents provide for them. So, there is a lack of need to work at a young age. So, the young workers, high schoolers, will delay their employment. They no longer have to work at restaurants, warehouses… Unfortunately, they fail to see the value of work experience at that level. Because their parents provide for them. They will wait for something bigger. So, as business owners, we have to recalibrate hiring practices. Also, the rise of food prices has been an unexpected issue. 

• On that thought, what advice do you have for small business owners in order to make a successful new hire an employee?

Right now, it feels like a roll of the dice (he laughs). Honestly, it boils down to the mindset of the workers. I have a relative who pays his employees $22 an hour. Still, he has difficulties hiring dedicated people. We need to rethink who we hire and how we hire.

• As a business owner, what are your top (three) priorities? I have two priorities.

1. I want my businesses to be operating with minimum supervision from us, my wife, and me. I want my staff to know this business thoroughly, so I don’ have to be here all the time.
2. Open a third location.
 

• Are mentors in business important? (If so, whom do you seek advice from for your business)

Yes, it is important to have mentors or people who know the business, industry. I didn’t have anyone like that when we started this business. I had to earn my experience the hard way. I had to learn everything…even simple things as filling business forms. Reliable mentors are a necessity.

• Have you ever failed? If yes, how did the failure set you up for later success?
  

I went from real estate agent to being a restaurateur is not because I wasn’t successful in real estate. I was successful as a real estate agent. I made a ton of cold calls! Most of them said no. But some said yes. Yes became a profitable transaction. Unfortunately, the real estate market went sour in 2000, and I’m not the type of person who walks around moping. No one hands you anything for free. I have always wanted to be a business person. As a business person, I looked for a different venture. I looked at my strengths, skillset. I knew how to cook, and I capitalized on it. So, I started with a food trailer!

• How do you manage two business at the same time?

I have synced the method of management in both restaurants.
 

• Your restaurant is closed on Sundays! I find that remarkable and admirable. 

We put in a lot of hours at our businesses, and we need a rest! We have even talked about closing on Monday. Taking a break is very important. Also, I have realized that when you take time off, customers miss you.

Let’s wind things down:

• Who or What shaped who you are?

At the age of 8 years, I cut grass. I washed neighbors' cars. Worked at Omni at the age of 13. I sold cassettes and CDs downtown Atlanta. I used to sell socks at a corner street, just to watch a restaurant that I want to buy. The owner wanted to sell it at a higher price than what I had offered. I told the owner that he doesn’t have enough customer traffic to support his claim. He refused my offer. But my mind was set that he eventually, has to sell it to me at my price. So, I decided to sell socks at the corner, just to keep an eye on his business. That is the attitude, the mindset I have. I guess it was the mindset I'm born with.
 

• My daughter has completed the first year of her high school. What advice would you give yourself if you had been taken back to the second year in high school to prepare yourself for the future? What advice should you ignore?

I tell him to concentrate on his work. I will tell him to stay away from kids and adults who are not positive and don't have goals. If you don’t have goals you will end up mediocre. The most important thing is to stay away from kids and people who are not positive. Because they are the ones who will bring you down. They don’t want to look stupid by themselves. So, they bring others to look stupid together. 
It is not an easy thing to raise kids. I ask you to stay close to your children. Don’t be a friend. Be the parent. Be close to your daughter. There is too much going on in this world.

• What do you do to take your mind off business? Or to relax? Or to have fun?

I never take my mind off business. Even on Sundays. There is always something business on my mind. There are so many things you can do in business.

• Let’s end this session with a philosophical answer. Truly knowing yourself requires serious effort. How did you find yourself (i.e., what you are capable of) and what questions should we ask ourselves?

Enjoy life, enjoy who you are, and enjoy what you are doing. If you miss any one of these things, then you are not going to have a happy life. You have to strive to find that balance. So, have a goal to find those three things in life and enjoy your life. Be happy. Also, understand that you are very fortunate.

Mr. Lenon,  I appreciate your time. Thank you very much. I wish you all the best.

Magic Wings and Things
https://www.ordermagicwings.com/

Locations:
2235 Hwy 34 E, Newnan, GA 30265
47 E Newnan Rd, Newnan, GA 30263

​Hello Travis. I trust you are doing well! 
 
Let’s talk about you:

• What is your business?

Ridgeline Floors, LLC. We provide Installation Services for all hard surface flooring such as tile, stone, laminate, LVP, and hardwoods. We also refinish floors and do custom tile work like accent walls, showers, and fireplace surrounds.

• How long have you been in business?

5 years

• What inspired you to start this business? What was your "aha moment"?

I used to be on the corporate side of this business, I managed hundreds of businesses just like the one I operate now. I worked with company owners from all over the world, all social classes. After working with these folks for several years I knew I wanted to give it a go on my own. I had the pleasure of working with many business owners because I managed an installation services program.

• What was your “day job” before you started up your business?

I was an Account Manager for an installation services company. We would offer an installation program for service retailers who sold products but did not want to manage installation also. I traveled the country for about five years managing and growing the program. In that time, I met hundreds of business owners and created relationships that I still lean on today.
​

• What motivates you every day?

My family, most importantly. Now that the business has grown it is the folks that rely on my business for income. That grows by the day, and I want to make sure everyone is growing and making a decent living.
 
Let’s talk about business, in general:

• What's the biggest problem business owners don't know they have?

Inefficiencies. It is difficult to step back from your daily operations and focus on systematic changes or personnel changes that could make things easier for everyone involved. For some reason we find it easier to push through those inefficiencies because we cannot find the time to
improve them.

• What advice do you have for small business owners in order to make a successful new hire? (Including mindset, character…)

I always trust my gut; I like to have a conversation with someone before doing any sort of interview. If having a common mindset throughout your team is important you can usually identify if a person will fit in with your team through a simple conversation. Your team is everything, make sure they are happy and comfortable.

• What advice do you have for small business owners to consider taking on a business partner? (Including mindset, character…)

You need to have a business plan in place before partnering with anyone. Partners might have different end games and goals, that is all right if it is clear and understood by both. You can accomplish different goals by working together on the same plan.

• How do you measure the value of a business? (Monetarily and otherwise)

We focus on happy customers, happy workers, and happy installers. Usually, the rest will follow.

• Are mentors in business important? (If so, whom do you seek advice from for your business)

I have leaned on so many mentors in my business, I feel extremely fortunate to have numerous contacts to call if I need guidance. Starting a business is daunting and difficult, mentors can be everything during trying times.

• What advice would you give wanna be entrepreneurs?

If you are interested in something and you think you have an opportunity to be successful just do it. I met so many people who were on their 3rd, 4th, 20th business and they had failed so many times but were just going to keep trying. I have only started and operated one business and we are fortunate enough to be profitable. Yes, I worked hard but I also got lucky, saw an opportunity, and ran with it.
 
Time for leadership questions:

• Are character traits between successful leaders and successful entrepreneurs common?

You need both to be successful, whether that is one individual or multiple. If you are not a great leader and you have the awareness to see that, you can always hire one. That goes for any role or trait.
​

• Have you ever failed? If yes, how did the failure set you up for later success?  A different question would be; What has been a difficult challenge and how did you pivot to overcome it?

When I first started Ridgeline Floors I launched wood and tile. I quickly found out that in the beginning I did not have the capacity to also handle the tile projects. I focused only on the wood flooring categories for my first few years which allowed me to grow and hire someone to help me with tile. Now we are at full capacity in both categories, with logs of happy customers! Sometimes you just must accept that things will take time and you need to grow into the business.

• How do you manage your day and distractions? A different question would be; Is there a specific (written down) checklist for daily use?

I use an old school agenda, every task in my day gets written down and once completed crossed out. If I do not complete a task, I move it to the next day until I have crossed it out. It helps organize and clear my mind.

• How do you boost engagement if a team player is struggling to stay motivated? Or what do you do to keep the team motivated?

I always look inside; I need to understand if I am setting them up for success. If production is low and I genuinely believe I have done everything I can to help them be successful, you then must accept that it is not a good fit.

• Is your business (or are you) guided by a set of Core Values? If so, what are they?

Keep it simple, enjoy each other, ask for help, stay organized, be loud about ways we can improve, take care of each other (installers, workers, customers)


Let’s wind things down:

• Who or What shaped who you are?

There are far too many to name. I have taken small and large bits from numerous leaders, mentors, and peers to help me navigate my own adventure.

• My daughter has completed the first year of her high school. What advice would you give yourself if you had been taken back to the second year in high school to prepare yourself for the future? What advice should you ignore?

I do not think you should only be worried about grades, always try your best and you will get superior results. It is equally important to really experience the people and the environment you are in, or you seek, the true-life lessons are there.

• What do you do to take your mind off business? Or to relax? Or to have fun?

Time with the family, playing with the kids. Working in the yard and gardening is something I really enjoy. I play soccer, that might be the only time I can completely remove the business from my mind.

• Let’s end this session with a philosophical answer. Truly knowing yourself requires serious effort. How did you find yourself (i.e., what you are capable of) and what questions should we ask ourselves?

My family and my business have been everything for me. I really did not have a path until those two entered my life around the same time five years ago. I look back on my youth and think about what kept me busy and where I spent my energy. I would have never thought that I would use that same energy and focus on starting a business, it seems that I was always geared for this and just did not know it. Professionally and personally, who are you working for? Why are you doing what you are doing every day? Does it make you happy or keep you motivated?
 
Travis, I appreciate your time. Thank you very much. I wish you all the best.

Ridgeline Floors is known for its quality craftsmanship, flooring installations, and refinishing services. You may connect with Travis via (770) 862-2119 or https://www.ridgelinefloors.com/
The quality of his work can be seen on the gallery page of the website or Instagram; @ridgelinefloors.

Let’s talk about you!

• How long have you been with Publix Super Markets?

I’ve been with Publix for 23 years.

• Is this your first retail industry job? If not, what other industries were you in?

I started my career in the grocery business when I was 14 and I’ve been in it ever since.

• Can you please share your path to the Store Manager position at Publix?

I started when I was in high school. I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with my future, so I made the best of what I had at Publix. I worked my way to being the Assistant Common Area Manager, now call the Customer Service Manager, at the age of 19. I worked at several stores and was lucky to be promoted in a great store that I served for 8 years. After a few great stores and leaders helped me even further, I was promoted to Assistant Store Manager and after 3 years in that role I was promoted to Store Manager where I was able to finally have my own store.

• On the first day (or the week) at Publix, did you have aspirations to lead Publix in some capacity?

No. I started off as a kid just trying to help pay for my own things and help my mother; however, I have always taken every job seriously.

• What motivates you every day?

I'm motivated by helping people, getting to know people, and knowing that I can have an impact on someone’s life like many of my mentors before me.
 
Let’s talk business:

• In your current role, essentially you are running a business. What's the biggest problem business owners don't know they have? (What do we need to pay attention to.)

Associate ownership and morale. It is important for your team to know they make a difference, feel important and reap benefits besides a paycheck.

• What advice do you have for small business owners in order to make a successful new hire?

Go with your gut feeling when you get to know applicants during an interview process. Continue to build relationships once an employee is hired. If they feel you have invested in them, they will invest in your company.

• In 2019, Publix was ranked No. 12 on Fortune magazine's list of 100 Best Companies to Work For. It was a huge leap from # 47 in 2018. Any lessons you can share on that transformation? (What small steps you and everyone took to make that happen.)

I unfortunately do not have an answer for this. However, Publix has been ranked in Fortune magazine’s top 100 since its inception. Because the Publix family believes in taking care of one another and allowing all associates to have the chance to purchase, and are given, shares of stock and ownership. It gives the sense of being cared for.

• You lead one of the most successful F&D stores in the company. Did that happen under your watch or did you inherit it?

I believe all success is what you make it. The store I currently run has had many great leaders before me, and it will be my job to keep that legacy of this store true to continue its success. 

•  Are mentors in business important? (Whom do you seek advice from for your business?)

Mentors are extremely important! I have had a great career so far and have worked with many whom have mentored me throughout the years. I continue to call them when I need guidance and I have others that often call me for guidance. It’s important to continue to grow leaders if I want to have Publix be as successful as it is now, once I retire.

 
Time for leadership questions:

•  Did someone teach you leadership? Or were you a born leader? Or did you inquisitively learn the best from others and assimilate it into your style of leadership?

I believe leadership comes in many ways. For me, it was taught. I often watched my mentors and leaders work with individuals and I would mimic the things I liked. This has helped me develop my own style of leadership.

•  Is your company guided by a set of Core Values? If so, what are they?

Publix has its mission and lessons from our founder, Mr. George, to keep in line with our company's vision. Our most recent focus is P.R.I.D.E; Personal Responsibility In Delivering Excellence.

•  When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused or lose interest, what do you do? What do you tell yourself?

When I lose interest, I typically start something new, refresh and then come back.

•  Can you tell me about a tough day you had at work and how you (and your employees) pushed through (non-pandemic)?

During last year's tropical storm Zeta, our store power went out. Most associates came in even though we were unable to open for business. They all chipped in to get the coolers secure in order to hold temps and ensure we followed all emergency procedures during this uncommon incident. After a long, stressful day of uncertainty, the power came back up 12 hours later. Our team did a great job of prepping the store for reopening and helping our community, who was also out of power.

•  How do you manage your day and distractions?

I try not to categorize anything as distractions. Most of the time I have opportunities that keep me from completing one task at a time. Being in retail, opportunities arise frequently and must be handled, but I always come back to the task at hand.
 
Let’s wind things down:

•  Who or What shaped who you are?

My mother helped me become the person I am. I never wanted to let her down, or anyone else down for that matter. The worst thing for me is to see or feel like I let someone down.

•  What beliefs and behaviors of yours most contributed to your success?

To be the best person I can be, and fully honest in life, has contributed to my success. To always give everyone fair opportunities when deserved and to hold everyone accountable to the same standard.

•  My son has completed his first year at college. What advice would you give to a smart, driven college student about to enter the real world in a few years? 

Live everything to the fullest. Soak every moment in. Don't be afraid to start new things and venture out. Believe in yourself and know that you are going to do great things in life.
​

•  What advice should he ignore?

Don't let anyone tell you, “You can't,” or “You’re not good enough.” You are good enough!
 

•  Let’s end this with a serious answer. What was the small step for you, that became the giant leap for yourself?

Coming from a single parent home where we didn't have a lot of money, I often watched my mother struggle. I never wanted to have that for myself. I knew that whatever I did in life I wanted to be able to afford things without worry. Publix has given me that opportunity by rewarding me on my successes.

District 44 Director, Roxane! 2021 – 2022 is going to be an exciting year!!

• You have been a lifelong Toastmaster. How long is that? 

21 ½ years

• What was your “aha” moment to join Toastmasters? Was it an instant join Toastmasters or it took a while before joining a Toastmasters? 

I was selected to do a presentation in front of the Board of Commissioners which would also be shown on the local tv station.  The thought of standing up in front of at least 50 people made me extremely nervous.  I heard about Toastmasters and decided it could possibly help me overcome this fear.  It did not take long for me to join/help charter the club once I heard about it.

• Please share your success story of rising to the role of District Director.

During a District 44 TM conference, one of the keynote speakers touched my heart when she spoke about giving back. TMs has given me so much through the years, and I felt it was my time to give back to others.  I was eager to sign up to serve as an Area Governor (Director) so that I could share my success and encourage others.  As I continued, I realized that I had the opportunity to grow as a leader in a different structure than the one at my job.  Because Toastmasters is a volunteer organization, you learn to lead with your heart.  Most of us have the same mindset of servant leadership in which members are the most important.  If our members accomplish their goals, then we as leaders are successful with the development of programs and opportunities we provide to aid in their growth.
 

• In your other career, you are a successful Financial Division Manager. It is one of the most demanding and impactful roles in an organization. Can you please give me a brief story of how you rose to that role? 

I have always considered myself a driven person.  I want to learn as much as possible to better myself and to challenge myself.  I was not afraid to ask questions and make some changes to better the organization.  I also volunteered and accepted every opportunity to serve on various committees to truly understand how the County as a whole function.  I also felt I could make a difference in the way I lead my teams.

• In these two leadership roles – one is managing numbers and the other is leading members, what type of mindset do you need to have to balance these leadership roles?

One is managing numbers and people while the other is about leading.  As a manager and leader, you must be able to adapt to any circumstance.  Leaders must be able to pivot and stay ahead of the changes and challenges you experience each day.  But over the years, I also learned that a leader should be empathetic.  My leadership style leans toward the Driver personality style, but I also learned that it was important to connect to my team.  I needed to understand their personality style and what they needed to be more productive.  People want and need compassion and want to know they are being supported.

• I’m told that establishing a specific culture at any institution is extremely important. How can we create a sustainable culture at an institution? Or can we just move along by “just being nice”? 

A strong culture is vital to the success of an organization.  Employees and leaders must have shared beliefs and values.  However, as a leader, you must understand that people have different personality styles, and it is good to be able to adapt to their style when needed and celebrate their differences.  You have to establish foundational guidelines that allows for a positive work experience but be flexible enough to adjust whenever obstacles or unforeseen circumstances occur.
                                                                                                                       

• Are character traits between successful Toastmasters and successful leaders common? 

Absolutely.  Toastmasters core values are integrity, respect, service and excellence.  The core values at my company are very similar with integrity as one of our guiding principles. Toastmasters is all about developing leadership skills and empowering others.  A successful leader will do the same for those around them.  Both require clear and effective strategies to achieve their goals.  Most of all, successful Toastmasters clubs and successful leaders prioritize their people while focusing on performance.

• What qualities do you have that have helped you to reach your goals?

Determination, decisiveness, ability to communicate with others, empathy, and being able to adapt when needed.

• You founded the Toastmaster At The Square club (TMATS). It has been a President’s Distinguished Club since year two. What is the secret sauce?

I definitely believe it is all about investing in our members.  Why did the member join, what can we provide to them, how do we keep them engaged and how do we have fun in the process!

•  What constitutes a successful Toastmaster member? 

For me, a successful member is one who is achieving the goals they set for themselves when they joined Toastmasters.  I also believe it is someone who is giving back to the organization by stepping into a leadership role, a coaching role or a mentor role.

• I found Toastmasters to be a fantastic incubator for testing my skill. During TMATS your advice and mentoring accelerated my progress. Thank you! What are your thoughts on that? 

In order for members to grow and learn, we have to be able to provide constructive feedback.  What many people forget is that it should be positive feedback, and it needs to remain focused on the goals and objectives of the member.  As the member advances, we need to elevate our feedback so the member stays challenged and continues to improve their performance or meets their new goals.

•  What's the biggest problem Toastmasters (or Toastmasters Clubs) don't know they have? How should they overcome those obstacles? 

Many clubs do not emphasize the Club Success Plan.  Toastmasters provides a lot of resources to enhance the member experience.  By taking some time to plan and formulate how the club will operate for the year (and years to come), the officers and members will be able to set goals and establish strategies to achieve the goals.  Many clubs also do not realize this is a fluid plan and can be evaluated and updated as needed.

•  Organizations are strongly encouraged to plan. How often should organizations revisit their plan? How long should long-term planning be?

I believe organizations should have a 5- and 10-year long-term plan.  These plans should be strategic and should be analyzed as often as is needed for the particular organization.  Plans should also be adaptable and updated when necessary.

•  How do you manage your day and distractions? Especially in your position, where you hold two high-ranking positions. Also, how should a leader choose the priorities that will guide an organization? 

First, managing distractions can be challenging.  I have emails, phone calls, texts and employees with many questions coming at me throughout the day.  Plus, everyone wants an answer or response ASAP.  Obviously, helping my employees is very important and sometimes you have to tell yourself the emails can wait.  I do try to let people know I received the email and will respond in a certain amount of time.  As a leader, priorities can change throughout the day.  For my job, there are many financial reporting deadlines which take high priority.  You also have to respond to departments, vendors and the public in a timely manner in order for them to complete their tasks.  During the pandemic, we received monies that needed to be distributed to various organizations quickly while also tracking it based on the Federal Government guidelines which changed almost daily.  Being able to continue your normal workload while adding additional responsibilities and pivoting each time the guidelines changed required a lot of planning and adapting.  As a leader, you learn to delegate what you can and determine what is needed most at that time.

•  What is your true passion? 

My true passion is helping others.  I enjoy seeing people become more confident speakers.  I love helping those who are less fortunate because I have been blessed in so many ways.  I get excited helping people try new things or accomplish things they never thought possible. 

•  Who or What shaped who you are? 

My parents shaped who I am.  They always believed in me and encouraged and supported all my endeavors.  My father lost his job when I was younger, and it took some time for him to find another job.  He worked multiple jobs to help make ends meet and my mother had to take on additional responsibilities.  We had to adjust to many changes especially from a financial perspective, but they would split their time so that at least one of them would attend me and my brother’s activities.  My parents were always my biggest cheerleaders especially for all my Toastmasters speeches and accomplishments.

•  My son has completed his very first year at college. What advice would you give to a smart, driven college student about to enter the real world in a few years?

First, enjoy every moment you have in college.  Time goes by so quickly.  Make valuable friendships – these will last long after college.  Take some leaps – visit another country, volunteer for a non-profit.  See the world through a different set of eyes.  Understand that you might pick a major in college and change your mind once you enter the work world.  It’s okay to change your mind.  Find your passion and do what makes you happy and excited each day.

•  What advice should he ignore?

I had a professor tell me that she never gave A’s.  My immediate thought was that I was going to prove her wrong.  I worked extremely hard in that class, and in the end, I earned and received my A.  Often people will tell you that you can’t do something or perhaps that you are wasting your time.  If it is important to you, then go for it!
 

•  Let’s end this with a serious answer. What was the small step for you that became the giant leap for yourself? 

I believe going off to college where I would not know anyone, living on my own after college, and honestly, stepping out of my comfort zone and joining this amazing organization called Toastmasters.  It has broadened my horizons in so many ways and helped mold me into the person I am today.
​
Roxane, I wish you all the success in this year!

Dr. Stein has been our family dentist for at least a decade. We went to him because he was recommended to us. We stayed with him because of his friendly, humorous demeanor and his conservative approach to treatment. His amicable staff reflects his personality! I’m confident you will be impressed, and will learn from Dr. Stein’s advice.
His office is at 2745 Sandy Plains Rd, Marietta, GA 30066. 770 - 977-1611.

Let’s talk about you!

• What or who inspired you to be a dentist? Was there an aha moment?

No one really inspired me. But I always knew I was very handy and mechanical and like science better than wordy subjects. I was a model car builder and I knew I had the hands.

• I see that you have a DMD degree. Is that a more specialized degree than DDS?

The DMD degree is not more specialized but does have a strong emphasis on the whole body as a system and not just concentrating on the mouth. The DMD integrates the oral cavity with the overall rest of the organ system.

• Did you ever think about going into other fields – medical or non-medical?

Yes, during high school I thought of becoming an anesthesiologist and medical career. But as time got close, I decided dentistry was a better fit for my lifestyle; fewer emergency calls and a more predictable day-by-day schedule.

• Currently you have a private practice. How long have you been in business?

I have had this office since 1978. Prior to that, I worked as an associate for one year with another dentist.

• What kinds of “day jobs” did you have before you started working in the dental field?

I worked in a gas filling station during high school and love working with cars. Later I work for an envelope company in the shipping warehouse department. I also work for a beverage company making deliveries to retail stores.

• How would you describe what you do?

As a dentist, it is my job to diagnose and treat all conditions of the oral cavity, including both teeth and surrounding soft tissues.

• You have an easy-going, yet spirited personality. Your staff is quite lively as well. Who did you get that personality from? Parents or you were just born with that nature?

My dad was very light-hearted and funny with a little bit of sarcastic wit. But I think I was born with this personality which has grown over time.

• My dad used to say, Dentists are the only doctors who operate on patients without the patients under anthesis. Is that true? Isn’t that scary for you doctor?

Yes, it is scary knowing that the patient may feel something. When I numb a patient for a procedure, I probably use more than necessary and I am very quick to ask the patient if they feel anything. Sometimes a patient does not want anesthesia and it takes the pressure off me because they know they may feel something but they are okay with it.

Some business questions:

• Did you work at a Dentist's office before you started your practice? How soon did you start your practice? 

Yes, I worked for another dentist for one year before starting my own office.

• What difficulties did you encounter in the first two years of private practice? 

The usual worries of wondering if you were going to have enough patience, but to be honest I had enough patience and did pretty well from the get-go! Hiring your first staff is hard because you do not have experience and you don't know what kind of help you are actually getting.

• What’s a typical work week like for you?

I have a great work week. I work Monday through Wednesday 8:30 to 5:00, off on Thursdays, and work Friday 7:30 to 1:30. I do not plan for particular procedures on any one day, I just take what I can get whenever it comes.

• What is/are the biggest issue(s) running a dental business?

I would say trying to keep all the staff and different personalities happy. Try to avoid “clicks” and favoritism.

• What advice do you have for small business owners to make a successful new hire?

I have been guilty of hiring the first candidate that I interview just to make it fast and easy. That is not the best method. You should talk to several candidates and take your time in deciding. References are not always quite true. So sometimes it comes down to experience and intuition and first impression of the particular candidate. If something does not seem right, you usually can not fix it. So, I would pass on that person.

• What is one way that operating a business today is the same as 15 years ago, and one way it's different?

The one way that is the same is always to treat the patient honestly and fairly. Patience knows when you are sincere. You don't have to jump into a huge treatment plan all at once. The patient will get the treatment when he or she is ready. What is different is having to deal with insurance companies and patients’ expectations of their insurance companies. We tried to make the patient aware of not trying to expect too much from their insurance carriers.

• How do you measure the value of a business – monetarily and ethically?

 I try to do the ethical values and the business and will take care of itself.

• How do you handle or what do you do if a patient disagreed with your assessment of his or her dental health? (handling difficult customers).

I don't have much of a problem with that because I am not over-selling and patients can see the treatment that I am recommending.

• How crucial are dental hygienists to your career?

The hygienist is a key member of the dental team. They clean, educate and inform the patient of many dental issues and keep teeth and gums healthy. The work they do is very time-consuming, so it freezes up the dentist’s time to work on other things and treatments.
 

• Are the dental hygienists, part of your team or independent of your team?

They are a part of the dental office team. On occasions, a fill-in hygienist may be required if the full-time/permanent hygienist has to be out for a reason. I prefer to have one hygienist so that the patients know and get comfortable with them.

• Who do you seek advice from in the dental industry? And Who did you advise? (mentoring in business).

Certainly, other dentists, lab technicians, or dental sales personnel. I teach at the Ben Marshall Dental Clinic which has associations will with the University of Georgia Dental College.

• What are the ways you employ to improve knowledge and keep up with current trends?

As part of dental licensure, 40 hours of continuing education is required every two years. Therefore, I am constantly taking courses on various dental matters to maintain my license. Before Covid, I would go to in-person classes, but now many classes are given online. Also, they are numerous dental magazine publications which can be very informative and educational. 

Time for leadership questions:

• Are leaders born or made? Some managers and owners think they are leaders. Is this true?

I think to be a leader you have to have a little extra edge, and I believe you are born with that edge. You can manage to a point but unless you take some leadership your work could collapse.
 

• Did you realize the value of leadership when you started your practice? What did you wish you knew (or had done) during college, after college, or even before college to gain leadership experience, relationship building…? This is could be advice you give children or (dental) students. Also, a reference to question #5 – have those jobs helped you?

Yes, you can gain something from all work environments. The main take away are being prideful and take ownership of what you're doing. Even lesser jobs require full commitment and attention to details to be successful. Boss can tell when an employee is committed to the job.

• What is your leadership style or leadership way? 

I tried to give some slack and freedom to the work environment but sometimes I am not strong enough and get taken advantage of, which can create bigger problems. I would not advise the “ostrich head in the sand approach” which I have been guilty of. It is hard to regain respect than to maintain and have respect at all times.

• Are character traits between successful leaders and successful entrepreneurs common?

I don't think so. You can be a good leader but not necessarily a successful entrepreneur. Entrepreneurship takes a certain amount of risk and chance that leadership does not always have to have.

• What advice would you give wannabe entrepreneurs?

Have all your ducks lined up. Think of all contingencies and what ifs. You may want to play devil's advocate with yourself. Things don't always go as anticipated.

• Have you ever failed? If yes, how did the failure set you up for later success?

Yes, of course. I will play back what went wrong and trying to stay one step ahead of the next time to prevent failure. Goes back to the question number 25, try to have a plan B, if necessary.
 

• Can you tell me about a tough day you had at work and how you (and your employees) pushed through (non-pandemic)?

There are many tough days, so they are in a way normal. We just tried to move on to the next patient and try not to let it affect your disposition on treatments for the next patient. Somehow the next day always seems not so bad.

Time Management:

• How do you manage your day and distractions? Are emails a part of this distraction? 😊

My day is usually a slower, calmed paced. So, there is room for some distractions. Yes, emails and YouTube can get you away from the minute-by-minute dentistry. Sometimes I like to be distracted. It is not always a negative.

• How do you avoid working on days off?

Very simple, I just don't! I rarely get emergencies and my normal work I can get done during the normal hours. 

• How much time off do you take a month and year?

Well, I am not a workaholic. But I also do not take many vacations. I never took too many extended vacations because of the economies of closing the office. I may take four to five days off yearly. With only working 4 days a week I do not feel over worked.

Let’s get personal and wind things down:

• Who are you most influenced by?

That is a tough one. I can't say anyone in particular.

• What motivates you?

My ego. I like the patients knowing I try to deliver the best dentistry I can. It is rewarding when you feel you have done a good and honest service to the patient. I take pictures of some of my cases and look at them from time to time and I am impressed that I did the work.

• Any good book recommendations?

 Nah, not much of a reader.

• What is an unusual habit you have?

Every morning I check the paper for editorial cartoons. I find them funny and humorous. I also must admit that I checked the obituary especially trying to keep up with patients.

• My son has completed the first half of his very first year at College. What advice would you give to a smart, driven college student about to enter the real world in a few years?

Keep the drive going. It may seem slow or the end may seem for the way. But it goes very fast. He may not realize it but those years are the best and most memorable and you will talk about that time forever.

• What advice should he ignore?

Get more sleep. Ha, ha

• Do you like sports? You are a big fan of…?

Yes, I like sports. My favorite is baseball. I'm a fan of the Braves and I love watching my grandkids play Little League. My grandsons are 9 years old and I am teaching them to play pool and they are getting very good.

• What is your favorite menu item(s)?

Tough question. I'm not picky and I like most all types of food. I tend to like Italian food with tomato sauce. One of my favorites is mesquite BBQ salmon on the grill, my specialty.

• Where are the best places you’ve ever visited?

I guess looking back I have been to more places than I realized. I have traveled to Italy, Greece, Canada, and all throughout the US. I think what sticks out in my mind is the Grand Canyon. It literally looks like a painting in the sky as a blue background.

• Let’s end this with a serious answer. What was the small step for you, that became the giant leap for yourself?

I would say when I decide to work for myself and not be under anyone else. There are too many opportunities and different ways to provide that I believe each practitioner must deliver their own style without worrying about a boss or someone looking over their shoulder. Actually, dentistry is a series of small steps that is when you put them together that is where you achieve success.

I recently conducted an interview with the Principal of Marietta Center for Advanced Academics in Marietta, Georgia. The school is located in the Marietta City School District and is ranked among the highest performing schools in the state. It takes a strong and compassionate leader to run any school, let alone a 3rd-5th grade magnet program. I wanted to learn more about the leader of the first certified STEM elementary school in Georgia. 

With great curiosity, I reached out to Dr. Tricia Patterson to get to know her and her style of leadership. She happily obliged!

Dr. Tricia Patterson...

• What prompted you to be a principal? Did you always want to be a principal, or was there a point of inflection (the light bulb went off)?

I decided to go into administration when one of my Principals told me I was a “natural” leader. After about two months in leadership courses, I fell in love with the work and never looked back!

• How long have you been a principal?

7 years (4 years as an assistant principal)

Please help us understand leadership: 

• I don’t think there is a difference between a CEO and a Principal. Similar responsibilities, different title names. Your opinion?

I agree to some extent – however – CEO’s are mostly concerned about the success of their business in a monetary fashion while Principals are more concerned about the emotional and social growth of their staff and students.
 

• Were you a born leader? Or someone taught you leadership? Or did you inquisitively learn the best from others and assimilate them into your style of leadership?

To some extent I believe I was a born leader (always held those types of roles and positions in school as a child/young adult); but my course work and experience added tools to my tool box.

• When do you think the idea of being a leader starts to formulate in a person’s mind?

When given the chance to lead others.

• I think leaders lead themselves. What did you learn about yourself as you were coming up through your career that helped you become better?

To always put people first – their feelings, their concerns, their point of views.

• What is your leadership style, or leadership way?

Transformational Leadership – making change alongside my staff

• Have you ever failed? If yes, how did the failure set you up for later success? 

Every. Single. Day.  Without failure, you don’t learn.

• What beliefs and behaviors of yours most contributed to your success?

Hard work and constant growth/educating myself. 

• Have you added any new beliefs and behaviors to your character in the last 5 years? 

Yes – I have grown tremendously over the past 5 years. I have become more accepting and understanding of different types of people – in all aspects of diversity.

• Looking back, I see how my parents’ influences shaped me. Can you share a couple of characters you inherited from your parents that contribute to your success now? 

My parents taught me my work ethic and to never give up on chasing my dreams. They also taught me to never accept success, but rather continue to work on “what is next”.
 
Time for some principal questions:

• How do you measure the value of a school?  

The happiness of the teachers and students – positive culture.

• What is the primary challenge in managing a great school? What is the primary challenge transforming underperforming school to a great school?

Keeping the school great :) I’ve never had that experience.

• At my previous work, they had established a company culture. The culture guided us, from work ethics to innovations. How important is a school culture? What ground work did you lay in your current school culture?

School culture is the key to success. Making sure I am always part of the learning and growing – and that students and staff know that I care.

• How many degrees separate a principal from a teacher? …from a student?

We are ALL part of the same team. 

• In education, the trend seems to be emphasis on STEM – (for my readers -Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Is that because we are trying to be or compete with countries such as India, Japan, Korea? Or because STEM helps teach to be problem-solvers?  

Both. It started to keep up with countries as mentioned, but has grown to be popular because educators recognize and see their students become problem solvers.
​

• I just started reading the book, “The Growth Mindset Playbook Promotes Growth Mindset Concept. I don’t think that is a concept, but a reality and a fact. “Coaching a student to think to understand that they have the power to achieve anything as long as they are willing to work for it”. How do you get a student to that point of realization, to change his or her mind to Growth Mindset? false cheering doesn’t work, right? And also 6 hours at school and each hour is spent on a text book subject.  

Teachers are trained in children psychology, so it is a learned skill :))

• How do you convince a young child that the small choices they are making today will have long-term implications on their future success? As a child I was more interested in Cricket, Chicken Curry and playing with friends.  

Give examples, find role models, explain, and teach them :))


OK, time to wind down.

• What is the best investment you have ever made? (Time, effort, books, people, money…) 

Graduate School.

• Any good book recommendations? 

“Let that Sh%$ Go”  

• What is an unusual habit you have? N/A

• My son has completed the first half of his very first year at College. What advice would you give to a smart, driven college student about to enter the real world in a few years? 

Talk 1:1 and don’t text.

• What advice should he ignore? 

You have to get straight A’s. 

• Did you have any mentors? 

Three – principals I worked under.

• Do you mentor anyone now? Teachers, Students, non-teachers…

Yes, teachers in leadership programs and other Principals. 

• A reliable source of mine has advised me that you exercise quite a bit. What type and routine? 

Walk the dogs and weight training.

• Where are the best places you’ve ever visited? 

Disney :))

• Let’s end this with a serious answer. What has been a defining moment in your life? 

Moving to Marietta and changing the course of my family’s path to something that is more diverse.

If you have visited the Floor and Decor in Roswell, Georgia, you may have interacted with an unassuming, soft voiced young gentleman. The one with the perfect haircut, dressed in black shoes, black pants, and black vest with the company logo. Perhaps that interaction was at the cash register, or while choosing the best flooring for your home. His name is Edgar Damian, and he is the Chief Executive Merchant (CEM) of the store.

Often when we discuss leaders, we imagine tall men with grey hair, glasses and dressed in a suit. One who sits in a suite with multiple computer screens on a large desk. But Edgar has shattered this stereotype.

With great curiosity, I reached out to Mr. Edgar Damian to get to know him and his style of leadership. He happily obliged!

• How long have you been with Floor & Decor (F&D)?

14 Years. I started as a Part Time associate and moved up to different roles; Full Time, Assistant Department Manager, Department Manager, Operations Manager, and now CEM.

• Is F&D your first job?

 It is my 2nd job. My first job was at a restaurant. The Cheesecake Factory!

• You look very young for a CEM. How old are you? Just an approximate; late 20s or early 30s? 

Thanks, I am 33.

• On the first day (or the week) of F&D job, did you have aspirations to lead F&D in some capacity? 

Yes. Since the beginning I realized that the company had a bright future and that I wanted to be part of the growth. 
 

• If you an immigrant or a first-generation immigrant, please give me some background – your usual spiel!  

I’ve been in the US since the year 2000. I’m originally from Puebla, Mexico. I lived with my parents in Washington State and as soon as I could I moved to Georgia mainly because of the weather. I have been in Atlanta since 2004 and don’t plan on moving any time soon.
 

• Did someone teach you leadership? Or were you a born leader? Or did you inquisitively learn the best from others and assimilated into your style of leadership? 

I would say a little bit of both, I have always been in to sports and have had a leadership mentality along with a competitive nature. Floor and Decor has taught so much. The company culture and nature of the business pushes the best in you. I have had great mentors along the way and now I read books to keep leaning and growing.

• What is your leadership style, or leadership way? 

Servant leadership as well as leading by example.

• Have you ever failed? If yes, what happened? 

Yes, failed to meet a deadline or goal.

• If you failed, how did the failure set you up for later success?

I try to learn from my mistakes, make a plan so it doesn’t happen again and keep moving forward.

• What is the best investment you have ever made? (Time, effort, books, people, money…) 

I believe anything you can invest in yourself is the best investment you can make, for me personally it would be books (leadership, self-improvement, sales, finances and investments). I also really enjoy having a gym membership, keeps me active and helps to release stress.

• What is an unusual habit you have? 

When I eat a burger and fries, I usually eat the fries first.
 

• What beliefs and behaviors of yours most contributed to your success?

Success is my duty, obligation and responsibility. Work from the inside out, what can I do get the results I want. Be proactive and begin with end in mind, have a goal, come up with a plan, and put in the work. Surround myself with great people and understand not everyone sees things the same way I do. Seek to understand than to be understood and treat people the way they would like to be treated.

• Any new beliefs and behaviors have you added to your character in the last 5 years?

Never be satisfied and stay out of your comfort zone.

• Looking back, I see how my parents’ influences shaped me. Can you share a couple of characters you inherited from your parents that contributing to your success now? 

My dad taught me to always have a positive attitude no matter what, he would always tell me “you can complain all you want but you are still going to do it, so why not do it with a smile on our face and get over with”. My mom always taught me to be kind and respectful, she would say things like “if you have nothing nice to say then just don’t say it”.

• My son has completed the first half of his very first year at College. What advice would you give to a smart, driven college student about to enter the real world in a few years? 

Build great long-lasting relationships and don’t give up.

• What advice should he ignore?

Ignore negative people, specially people that complaint about their lives and view themselves as victims.
 

• As a leader at different levels (before becoming a GM) were you good at saying no to things – Are those Nos because of certain experiences in life or realizations? 

It was difficult at first and can still be at times, when you say yes to something you are saying no to other things, once you know your priorities it becomes a bit easier.

• When you feel overwhelmed or unfocused or lost interest, what do you do? What do you tell yourself?

I like to re-read a book that inspired me before and helps me get my mind on the right track.
 

• You lead one of the most successful F&D stores in the company. Did that happen under your watch or you inherited it?

Both. I have been at this location for 7 years. When I first arrived, the store was not performing as well as it could, I was soon promoted to Operations manager and helped the previous CEM get the store to be a top performing location. When he got promoted, I took over the store and have been a CEM for the last 3 years.

• How do you guide your team to achieve goals and develop their individual skills?

I value their opinions and empower them to make decisions.

• What do I need to get better at so I can run my own business someday?

I have not had the pleasure to work with you long enough to provide feedback.

• Who are other leaders you look up to?

Several within Floor and Decor as well as Andrew Carnegie, John D Rockefeller and Steve Jobs.

• Did you have any mentors?

I have had a couple great mentors along my Floor and Decor journey. 
 

• Do you mentor others?

Not officially but I would consider part of job responsibilities to help develop and mentor my team of associates and managers.

• Any good book recommendation?

I noticed in your blog that you read “Good to great”. So, I would strongly recommend “Built to last”. Also, “How to win friends & Influence people”, “The servant”, “Leaders eat last” and “Extreme Ownership”. Just name a few of my favorites.

• Do you travel? If so, what are your favorite locations?

Not as much as I would like. Every once in a while, I enjoy going on a Cruise, Las Vegas, a nice beach, or somewhere up in the mountains.