In this episode of My Simplified Life, Michelle Glogovac sits down with James Rhee, an entrepreneur, educator, and author of Red Helicopter. They discuss James' unique journey, his philosophy on kindness and leadership, and the transformative story behind his work at Ashley Stewart. James shares personal anecdotes and insights highlighting the importance of compassion, resilience, and community in personal and professional life.

 

What we’re talking about

• The power of kindness and generosity

• The significance of leadership rooted in confidence and calm

• The impact of creating inclusive and supportive environments

The power of kindness and generosity 

James shares how simple acts of kindness, like sharing his lunch as a child, can have profound impacts. He emphasizes that kindness, far from being a sign of weakness, stems from a place of confidence and abundance. This perspective challenges the traditional view of leadership and success, promoting a more compassionate and human-centered approach that can inspire and bring hope to all.

The significance of leadership rooted in confidence and calm 

James elaborates on his belief that true leadership comes from a state of confidence and calmness. He argues that leaders who are secure and not driven by fear create environments where creativity and collaboration can flourish. This approach not only benefits the individuals within the organization but also leads to more sustainable and impactful outcomes, reassuring the audience about the power of confidence and calm in leadership.

The impact of creating inclusive and supportive environments 

James shares his experiences at Ashley Stewart, a company that serves and employs plus-size Black women. He reflects on how empowering and supporting these women led to the company's success. By fostering an environment of inclusion and respect, James turned around a struggling business and proved that compassionate leadership can drive social and economic gains, empowering and motivating the audience to create their own inclusive and supportive environments.

 

LINKS MENTIONED

Red Helicopter by James Rhee

Red Helicopter Website

James Rhee’s Instagram

James Rhee’s LinkedIn