For years, the office was seen as the beating heart of business. If you wanted to prove your company was real, you needed a physical space. Desks. A kitchen. A place where people clocked in, gathered, and did the work.

But as Alpesh Doshi, founder of Kendra Labs, reminded us in a recent episode of The Bliss Business Podcast, the real transformation isn’t just about where we work. It’s about rethinking the purpose, structure, and strategy of work itself.

Alpesh has been advising startups and enterprise leaders on how to build the future of business with AI at the center. But his view goes far beyond automation. He challenges organizations to redesign their operations with a people-first, systems-intelligent mindset. What’s outdated isn’t just the office. It’s the assumption that presence equals productivity.

Remote Work Wasn’t a Revolution, It Was a Reckoning

The pandemic didn’t usher in a remote work revolution. It exposed how unprepared we were to begin with.

Most companies didn’t transition to remote intentionally. They were pushed into it overnight. As a result, they replicated in-person dysfunction online. Endless Zoom meetings. Lack of documentation. Vague expectations. Misaligned communication.

According to Alpesh, one of the most overlooked opportunities was to intentionally codify the way people work. At Kendra Labs, they’ve done exactly that — creating rituals, rules of engagement, and systems that make work visible, shared, and scalable across time zones. It’s not about control. It’s about clarity.

He shared examples of asynchronous-first communication, default-to-sharing norms, and onboarding practices that give people a real understanding of how to succeed in a distributed environment. In his words, “If people don’t understand the operating model, how can you expect them to thrive in it?”

Accountability Without Micromanagement

One of the most striking points Alpesh made was about accountability in remote settings. Contrary to old-school assumptions, distributed teams can be more accountable, not less. But it requires rethinking the mechanics.

Traditional models rely on top-down supervision. In self-managed teams, accountability emerges from a shared sense of purpose and mutual responsibility. People don’t want to let down their peers. And when the goal is clear and the mission matters, performance often takes care of itself.

Still, this model isn’t automatic. Many professionals, especially early in their careers, have never been taught how to succeed without structure. It’s not that they’re incapable. It’s that the system never invested in their autonomy.

This is where leadership comes in. Organizations that want to build resilient, empowered teams must also teach skills like goal-setting, self-awareness, and ownership. These are not soft skills. They’re strategic.

Isolation Is Real and Preventable

Remote work has many benefits, but let’s be honest — it can be lonely.

Alpesh didn’t shy away from this. He spoke openly about the need to design for connection, not just productivity. Culture doesn’t disappear in a distributed model, but it does require more intention.

Spontaneous hallway chats. Morning coffee with a colleague. Team lunches. These weren’t just perks. They were part of the emotional fabric that kept teams cohesive.

Now, leaders must create new rituals that foster belonging. Virtual roundtables. Cross-functional collaboration spaces. Off-site gatherings with purpose. Even well-designed Slack channels can restore some of the human magic we lost.

As Alpesh said, “Remote-first doesn’t mean people-last.”

The Rise of the AI-First Organization

Perhaps the most forward-looking part of the conversation was Alpesh’s vision for “AI-first” companies. Not businesses that just use AI, but those built with AI at the center of their workflows, decisions, and operations.

He shared jaw-dropping examples of lean teams using AI to scale up with incredible efficiency. One company he referenced hit $100 million in revenue with just 15 people. Another founder eliminated nearly all hourly reporting, replacing it with outcome-based metrics driven by smart automation.

But he also pointed to friction. Engineers refusing to adopt AI tools out of fear. Leaders worried they’ll lose visibility. Founders wrestling with trust.

The lesson? It’s not just the tools that need upgrading. It’s the mindset.

True AI-first companies are not just digitized. They’re rehumanized. They use AI to remove friction, elevate insight, and refocus people on high-value work that drives meaning, not burnout.

Purpose Is Still the Anchor

Despite all the talk of tools, systems, and strategy, Alpesh kept returning to one core idea: purpose.

Without purpose, autonomy feels like abandonment. Without purpose, AI feels like surveillance. Without purpose, growth becomes noise.

When people understand the why behind their work, accountability rises. Innovation flows. Collaboration improves. The organization becomes more than a place. It becomes a shared mission.

That’s the future of work. Not office versus remote. Not AI versus human. But aligned purpose, thoughtful systems, and empathetic leadership.

Final Thought

As we navigate the next chapter of work, we have to ask harder questions than “when are people in the office?”

We need to ask:

• Do people understand how to succeed here?
• Are we designing systems that support autonomy and accountability?
• Are we leading with purpose, not just productivity?

Alpesh Doshi’s insights remind us that the companies that thrive won’t just embrace change. They’ll architect it. With empathy. With clarity. And with purpose at the core.

Check out our full conversation with Alpesh Doshi on The Bliss Business Podcast.

Originally Featured on The Bliss Business Podcast Blog

Business isn’t just about transactions. It’s about relationships. David DeLorenzo, CEO of Bar and Restaurant Insurance and author of Just Getting Started, has built his career around this principle. He didn’t just create a business. He built a community.

David’s journey is anything but traditional. He began in the music industry, working with legendary artists and navigating a world where connections were everything. When that chapter closed, he didn’t lose his passion for people. He brought it with him into the world of insurance, a field that’s often seen as cold and transactional.

For David, community isn’t just a marketing concept. It’s the core of everything he does. His company doesn’t just sell policies. It protects dreams, supports businesses, and fosters genuine relationships with clients who trust him not just as an insurance provider, but as a partner.

Why Authenticity is the Ultimate Business Strategy

David’s approach is built on a simple truth: Authenticity is magnetic. Customers don’t just want products or services. They want to know who they’re doing business with. That’s why David insists on being himself, always.

“People don’t want perfect. They want real,” he explained. This belief is reflected in everything he does, from his branding to his conversations with clients. He avoids the stuffy, suit-and-tie image often associated with insurance and instead shows up as himself: genuine, approachable, and passionate.

This authenticity isn’t just a personal preference. It’s a strategic advantage. According to a study by Sprout Social, 86 percent of consumers say authenticity is a key factor in choosing which brands to support. David’s business isn’t just about policies. It’s about relationships built on trust and connection.

The Power of Connection in Business

For David, connection isn’t just about closing deals. It’s about being a resource, a mentor, and a community builder. He actively connects his clients with other trusted professionals, helping them succeed beyond their immediate needs. This approach has made him more than just an insurance provider. It has made him a trusted advisor.

He refers to himself as a “connector and protector,” a phrase that perfectly captures his mission. He doesn’t just sell insurance. He helps clients protect what matters most. But his value goes beyond coverage. He offers guidance, builds relationships, and creates a network of support for the people he serves.

Reinventing Success: The Story of Just Getting Started

David’s impact goes beyond his business. He’s also the author of Just Getting Started, a book that explores the power of reinvention at any stage of life. It’s a story of resilience, authenticity, and the courage to keep growing.

For David, reinvention isn’t just about changing careers. It’s about evolving, staying curious, and continuing to pursue what matters. His story is proof that it’s never too late to pivot, try something new, or discover a new passion.

What Other Leaders Can Learn from David’s Approach

David’s journey offers powerful lessons for leaders and entrepreneurs in any industry:

Authenticity Builds Trust: Customers want to know who you are. Be yourself, and the right people will connect with you.

Connection is More Valuable Than Transactions: Focus on building relationships, not just making sales. Be a resource, a mentor, and a connector.

Community Creates Resilience: When you build a network of loyal clients who trust you, your business can weather any storm.

Reinvention is Always an Option: No matter where you are in your career, you can always learn, grow, and start something new.

Purpose Drives Performance: David doesn’t just sell insurance. He protects the dreams of his clients. His purpose is clear, and it guides everything he does.

Final Thought

Business is about more than just numbers. It’s about people. David DeLorenzo’s success is a reminder that true connection is the most valuable asset any business can have. Authenticity isn’t just a feel-good idea. It’s a powerful strategy for lasting success.

The question is, in your own business, are you building real connections or just making transactions?

Check out our full conversation with David DeLorenzo on The Bliss Business Podcast.

Originally Featured on The Bliss Business Podcast Blog

Community is more than just a buzzword, it’s the backbone of lasting business success. In a recent episode of The Bliss Business Podcast, Jason Parker, CEO of K-Nine Resorts, shared how a simple idea built on trust transformed a local pet-sitting service into a nationally recognized brand.

What began as a neighborhood pet-sitting service evolved into a thriving business built on one powerful principle: trust builds community, and community drives success. But for Jason, community isn’t just about customer relationships, it’s about creating a network where every location becomes a hub of connection and care.

Franchise owners at K-Nine Resorts aren’t just operators; they’re “mayors of their markets,” actively engaging with their communities. They attend local events, build partnerships, and become recognizable, trusted faces. This approach doesn’t just drive foot traffic, it builds loyalty.

Why Community Drives Business Success

In today’s world, consumers don’t just buy products or services, they buy relationships. A study by Sprout Social revealed that nearly 80 percent of customers feel more loyal to brands that foster community. And K-Nine Resorts is living proof.

At every new location, franchise owners are encouraged to engage with their communities before the doors even open. Whether it’s attending street fairs, partnering with local shops, or simply being present, they become familiar faces.

Jason’s philosophy is clear: If you can be a trusted presence in the community, you become the go-to choice when customers need your services.

The Business of Trust

Trust isn’t just a feel-good concept, it’s a strategic advantage. K-Nine Resorts builds trust in three powerful ways:

Local Ownership, Local Connection: Franchisees aren’t just operators; they’re community members. They build relationships with customers, who know them by name.

Transparency and Consistency: Every location follows the same standards, from facility cleanliness to customer service. Customers know they can expect the same quality experience no matter which location they visit.

Education and Empowerment: Franchisees receive ongoing training on best practices, from customer care to community engagement. Regular webinars, an annual conference, and access to industry experts ensure they stay at the cutting edge.

Passion Fuels Purpose

Jason’s advice to aspiring franchise owners is simple: “Don’t just choose a business because it looks profitable, choose something you love.” His own story is proof. What began as a passion for dogs turned into a thriving business, but more importantly, it turned into a community.

This passion isn’t just good for morale, it’s good for business. Purpose-driven companies consistently outperform their competitors. According to a study by Deloitte, purpose-driven businesses grow three times faster than their peers.

Lessons for Business Leaders

What can other businesses learn from K-Nine Resorts? At its core, Jason’s approach is about building trust through authenticity, consistency, and community engagement. Whether you’re running a local service or a global enterprise, the principles are the same:

• Show Up: Be present where your customers are, both physically and digitally.
• Be Transparent: Consistency in your brand experience builds trust.
• Invest in Education: Support your team and partners with continuous learning.
• Lead with Passion: Do what you love, and your customers will feel that energy.

Final Thought

Community isn’t something you build once, it’s something you nurture every day. For K-Nine Resorts, that means recognizing that dogs aren’t just pets, they’re family. And families deserve more than just a service, they deserve a relationship.

The question is, in your own business, how are you building that sense of community?

Check out our full conversation with Jason Parker on The Bliss Business Podcast

Originally Featured on The Bliss Business Podcast Blog

When it comes to leadership, some traits are easy to recognize. Decisiveness, strategic thinking, and resilience often top the list. But there’s one skill that’s just as crucial, yet often overlooked: emotional intelligence (EQ).

In a recent episode of The Bliss Business Podcast, Jason Olsen, Founder and CEO of Image Studios, shared how EQ has shaped his leadership journey. From building a thriving franchise network to navigating tough team dynamics, Jason made it clear that emotional intelligence isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s a strategic advantage.

The Real Power of Emotional Intelligence in Business

Research from TalentSmart shows that 90 percent of top performers have high emotional intelligence, compared to just 20 percent of low performers. Despite this, many organizations still undervalue EQ when hiring or developing leaders.

Jason’s experience challenges that trend. He has spent the last 15 years growing Image Studios from a single location to over 100 across the country. His key insight? Building a successful business is straightforward until you add people into the equation.

“Business is easy until you add the human component,” Jason explained. “That’s where things get messy. If you can’t tune into the human side, you’re missing half of the formula.”

Leading Through Conflict: A Real-Life EQ Case Study

Jason shared a powerful story from his own experience. His marketing team was clashing over the direction of a major national campaign. Emotions were high, and the project was at risk of stalling.

Instead of dictating a top-down solution, Jason tapped into his EQ. He recognized the tension and took a step back. Instead of taking sides, he invited each person to share their perspective. By actively listening and facilitating an open dialogue, he not only diffused the conflict but also guided the team to a solution that everyone could support.

“It could have gone into a serious fight,” Jason recalled. “But instead, everyone came out with a better strategy than we had originally planned.”

Why EQ Matters More Than Ever

In today’s fast-paced business world, the ability to navigate human dynamics is a critical leadership skill. A study from Forbes found that leaders with high emotional intelligence are 70 percent more likely to successfully scale their businesses. Why? Because EQ-driven leaders create environments where people feel valued, heard, and empowered.

Jason pointed out that emotional intelligence is not about being nice. It’s about being understood. Effective communication builds trust and reduces conflict, allowing teams to perform at their best.

“If a leader can demonstrate good EQ skills, it sets a tone,” Jason said. “People start mirroring that behavior, and it becomes part of the company culture.”

The Ripple Effect of EQ

One of the most intriguing aspects of Jason’s leadership philosophy is the ripple effect. At Image Studios, he fosters emotional intelligence not only within his corporate team but throughout his network of franchise owners and independent beauty professionals.

With over 2,500 beauty entrepreneurs across the country, maintaining consistent leadership values could be a challenge. Yet, Jason believes that EQ is the key to connecting with both franchisees and their clients.

“We help people start businesses,” he explained. “It’s exciting, but it’s also scary. Being able to connect with that emotion makes our brand relatable. It shows we get it. We know the journey, and we support them through it.”

Breaking the Misconceptions Around EQ

Despite the clear benefits, many leaders still view EQ as a “soft” skill, less important than technical expertise or hard metrics. Jason challenges this perception head-on.

“People think EQ is just about being nice,” he said. “But it’s really about being able to understand what’s going on with your team and your customers. It’s not just about feeling, it’s about knowing how to respond effectively.”

Jason pointed out that low EQ often leads to a toxic work environment, high turnover, and customer dissatisfaction. In contrast, high EQ leaders build resilient cultures that can navigate challenges without falling apart.

Practical Steps to Strengthen EQ

During the podcast, Jason shared practical advice for leaders looking to build their own emotional intelligence:

• Practice Self-Awareness: Regularly reflect on how your actions impact others. Ask for feedback and be open to adjusting your approach.
• Focus on Active Listening: Instead of formulating a response, focus on truly understanding what the other person is saying.
• Lead by Example: Your team mirrors your behavior. Model the EQ skills you want to see in others.
• Prioritize Empathy: Show that you understand your team’s challenges. This builds trust and encourages open communication.
• Resolve Conflict Thoughtfully: Create a space where different perspectives can be shared without judgment. Use conflicts as opportunities for growth.

EQ: The Leadership Skill That Transforms Culture

When Jason discussed why emotional intelligence isn’t prioritized in leadership training, he noted that many leaders simply aren’t taught how to practice it. In most MBA programs, the focus is on analytics, finance, and strategy, leaving emotional dynamics as an afterthought.

But as Jason demonstrated throughout the episode, EQ is essential to leading people, building community, and fostering business growth. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being human.

And when leaders take the time to understand their teams, they create not just better workplaces but stronger, more resilient businesses.

A Final Thought

As Jason put it, “It’s not about being the smartest person in the room. It’s about being the one who listens, understands, and brings people together.”

Emotional intelligence isn’t just a leadership trend. It’s a strategic advantage that every leader should prioritize. The next time your team faces a challenge, ask yourself: Am I reacting or responding? Am I being directive or listening?

By embracing EQ, leaders can build not just profitable companies but lasting communities of people who feel valued and heard.

Check out our full conversation with Jason Olsen on The Bliss Business Podcast.

Originally Featured on The Bliss Business Podcast Blog

For decades, businesses have operated under a familiar equation: maximize profit at all costs. Quarterly earnings, revenue targets, and bottom lines have dictated decisions. But that equation is being redefined. Purpose and profit are no longer opposing forces. In fact, they are becoming powerful allies.

Mark Cunningham, Founder and CEO of The Achieve Institute, has spent decades helping companies build high-performance cultures. His experience is clear: businesses that balance profit with social responsibility consistently outperform those that focus solely on financial gains.

And the data backs this up. According to a study by Harvard Business Review, companies with a clear social purpose experience 10 percent higher revenue growth compared to their peers. Deloitte’s Global Human Capital Trends report revealed that purpose-driven organizations enjoy 40 percent higher workforce retention, making them not only profitable but resilient.

But for Mark, this isn’t just about statistics. It’s about character.

“Companies are just like big people,” Mark explained. “They have the same traits, the same qualities. When you have a stronger purpose, you’re more effective. You make better decisions. And you become more resilient.”

The Misconception That Holds Leaders Back

One of the biggest myths in business is the idea that companies must choose between financial success and doing good. This false choice is what keeps many leaders stuck in outdated, profit-at-all-costs models. But as Mark emphasized, a strong purpose is not just a moral choice. It is a competitive advantage.

“Purpose is more than a mission statement on the wall,” Mark said. “It’s the filter through which you make decisions. It shapes your culture. It drives behavior. And it aligns your team toward a common goal.”

Purpose-driven organizations excel because they activate three powerful advantages:

• Talent Magnet: Employees who feel connected to a company’s purpose are more engaged and loyal. They’re not just collecting a paycheck. They’re part of something bigger.
• Customer Loyalty: Brands with strong social responsibility resonate with values-driven consumers. In an era where 63 percent of customers prefer to buy from companies that reflect their values (Cone Communications), purpose can be a differentiator.
• Crisis Resilience: When the unexpected happens, purpose provides clarity. Leaders can make decisions that align with their core values, rather than being swayed by short-term pressure.

Purpose Is a Performance Multiplier

Mark used a powerful analogy to explain how purpose impacts performance. It’s like upgrading the engine of a car. Two companies may have the same resources, but the one with a clear, authentic purpose will always go further. It taps into an emotional and motivational advantage that can’t be bought.

This isn’t just a feel-good theory. It’s a repeatable strategy.

Mark has seen it firsthand. Companies he has worked with, after connecting to a meaningful purpose, consistently experience:

• Greater employee engagement: teams become self-motivated rather than micromanaged.
• Stronger customer relationships: people choose brands they believe in.
• Sustainable growth: decisions become more strategic, aligned with long-term goals.

But There’s a Catch: Weak Purpose Is Worse Than No Purpose

Not all purpose is created equal. In fact, a weak or performative purpose — one that looks good in marketing but isn’t lived out in culture — can actually be worse than having no purpose at all.

“Having a weak purpose can create cynicism,” Mark warned. “It’s better to have no purpose at all than to have one that your team doesn’t believe in.”

Purpose that exists only in a mission statement or an annual report creates distrust. Employees see the gap between what the company claims to stand for and how it actually operates. Customers feel the disconnect. Over time, this leads to disengagement, turnover, and reputational damage.

The Four-Part Framework for Purpose-Driven Leadership

Mark didn’t just talk about purpose. He provided a clear, actionable framework for making it real:

1. Model: Leaders must embody the values they want to see in their teams. Purpose starts at the top.
2. Build: Establish systems and practices that support purpose-driven behavior. This means designing workflows, incentives, and communication channels that align with your values.
3. Recognize: Acknowledge and celebrate employees who live the company’s values. Recognition reinforces behavior and builds a culture of appreciation.
4. Inspect: Regularly review how well the organization is living its purpose. Are decisions aligning with stated values? Are employees proud of the brand they represent?

This is not just a leadership philosophy. It is a management system. It ensures that purpose is not just a slogan but a way of operating.

Purpose-Driven Brands Thrive, Even When Others Struggle

As the world becomes more unpredictable, businesses that operate with a clear sense of purpose are proving to be more resilient. Research by Porter Novelli found that 66 percent of consumers are willing to switch from a product they typically buy to a new product from a purpose-driven company.

In the face of crises, from pandemics to economic disruptions, purpose-driven brands are the ones that adapt, pivot, and thrive. Why? Because they’re anchored. Purpose provides a North Star for decision-making, a rallying cry for teams, and a reason for customers to keep coming back.

A Final Thought

“Surviving is hard. Thriving is easier,” Mark said.

It may sound counterintuitive, but it’s true. Companies that rely solely on profit are constantly fighting to stay ahead, driven by fear and short-term pressure. Companies with a strong purpose operate from a place of clarity, confidence, and commitment.

The question is not whether your company has a purpose. It’s whether that purpose is strong enough to guide you through the challenges ahead.

Because in the end, businesses with a clear sense of purpose don’t just make money. They make a difference.

Check out our full conversation with Mark Cunningham on The Bliss Business Podcast.

Originally Featured on The Bliss Business Podcast Blog