In this episode of The Results Loading… podcast, Tony Wilkes joins Michael Atkin to delve into his entrepreneurial journey in the fire protection industry. Tony discusses the importance of hands-on experience and design, and the unexpected challenges he faced. He emphasizes building team culture through positive reinforcement and setting clear expectations for accountability. The conversation covers fostering high-performing teams, leveraging technology, and addressing talent retention amid generational differences. Tony shares insights on personal relationships and evolving leadership styles, offering advice for emerging leaders and highlighting the value of long-term commitment.

(0:00) Introduction to Tony Wilkes and his entrepreneurial journey

(1:08) Tony Wilkes shares his career journey and challenges in starting a business

(5:29) Advantages of hands-on experience and design in fire protection

(12:37) Overcoming unexpected challenges and planning in the industry

(18:20) Building team culture through positive reinforcement

(22:52) Leadership and setting clear expectations for accountability

(27:09) Fostering a high-performing team and the importance of continuous learning

(34:22) Real-world implications of fire safety and operational efficiency

(37:43) Leveraging technology for business optimization

(42:06) Talent retention, generational differences, and mentoring

(50:12) The role of personal relationships and evolving leadership styles in business

(52:51) Final advice for emerging leaders in the fire protection industry

(55:53) The value of long-term commitment and closing thoughts