In this unforgettable CG Live Podcast episode, I sit down with bestselling author and keynote speaker Damon West, whose powerful redemption story and Coffee Bean message captivated the entire room at our Q3 event in Dallas. Damon's journey—from a life sentence in prison to becoming a nationally sought-after speaker—is the ultimate story of transformation through mindset, service, and personal responsibility.

We dive into the heart of what it means to be a "coffee bean"—a change agent who transforms their environment instead of being changed by it. Damon also breaks down the secret to life (hint: it's servant leadership), shares lessons from inside the prison system, and connects his message to the culture-building work entrepreneurs must lead in their companies and homes. If you're looking for inspiration backed by raw truth and hard-earned wisdom, this one's for you.

Episode Highlights:

[0:00] - Introduction

[2:20] - Damon explains the Coffee Bean story and why it matters

[3:41] - From Uptown Burglar to prison to parole: a story of redemption

[5:09] - How Damon changed the energy of a prison through community

[8:21] - The secret to life? Servant leadership—and why it changes everything

[10:47] - How to teach servant leadership to your kids at home

[12:27] - Building culture in your business: top-down and bottom-up

[13:53] - What great teams do when the leader isn't in the room

[14:43] - Why the Coffee Bean message sticks—and how to bring Damon in

[16:14] - Kobe, consistency, and never getting bored with the basics

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Be the change agent – Like a coffee bean, transform your environment by choosing your mindset and taking action.

2. Servant leadership is the secret to life – Help others grow, and you'll grow too—in business, relationships, and beyond.

3. Culture starts with you – A great team doesn't wait for the leader to show up. They hold each other to a higher standard.

Links & Resources:

• Learn more about Damon West and book him to speak: damonwest.org

• Read The Coffee Bean by Damon West & Jon Gordon

• Apply to join the CG community: explorecg.com

If this episode inspired you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And don't forget to follow, rate, and review the CG Podcast. To learn more about joining a room full of world-class real estate leaders, visit explorecg.com.