From Jolly Ranchers to Building Teams That Scale | Donald Thompson - Walk West, CEO, Author, Exec. cover art

From Jolly Ranchers to Building Teams That Scale | Donald Thompson - Walk West, CEO, Author, Exec.

From Jolly Ranchers to Building Teams That Scale | Donald Thompson - Walk West, CEO, Author, Exec.

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Donald Thompson isn't just the Board Chair of Walk West-he's a masterclass in how to scale yourself across multiple ventures without burning out. In this episode, we dive into his journey from selling Jolly Ranchers in fifth grade (and getting suspended for it) to leading a global consulting practice, coaching executives, investing in entertainment talent, and still finding time to catch Duke basketball games once in awhile.

Donald breaks down the real secret to entrepreneurship: it's not about having the best idea—it's about building the best team. We talk about the hard lessons of delegation, why keeping your promises is the ultimate career hack, and how to vet people you're thinking about hiring (hint: make them demonstrate their skills first).

He also shares why "find great people and let them shine" is his entire business philosophy, how your personal brand becomes your most valuable asset, and the one book he rereads every other year that shapes how he thinks and leads. If you've ever wondered how successful people manage to do it all, this conversation is your blueprint.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

  • Book: Underestimated: A CEO’s Unlikely Path to Success
  • Connect with Donald: linkedin.com/in/donaldthompson
  • Donald's website: donaldthompson.com
  • Walk West: walkwest.com

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