What happens when two digital marketing professionals decide to build the company they've always wanted to work for? Emma Welland and Kat Sale, founders of House of Performance, reveal their refreshing approach to leadership that prioritizes values over EBITDA and puts purpose and fulfillment at the center of business decisions.

The conversation delves into the critical distinction between leadership and management. As Emma explains, "You can be a good manager and a terrible leader, and a good leader and a terrible manager." While management handles the day-to-day processes, true leadership is about inspiring people and taking them on a journey toward a shared vision. This distinction guides how they approach their roles as founders and leaders.

Their leadership philosophy centers around three core values: pride, agility, and transparency. These aren't just words on a wall—they're principles that guide every decision. When faced with a choice, Emma and Kat simply ask, "Does this align with our values?" This approach provides clarity in decision-making and builds a consistent culture. A powerful example emerges when they share how they handled an $800 mistake made by a team member, transforming it into a teaching moment that reinforced their values rather than creating a culture of fear.

What truly sets their leadership style apart is authenticity. Both founders emphasize the importance of leaders whose words and actions align—where "the mouth and eyes are connected." They've experienced firsthand how inauthentic leadership destroys trust and engagement, and they're determined to build something different.

Perhaps most compelling is their commitment to creating a business they themselves would want to work for. From offering therapy services to allowing employees to work from anywhere for a month, they design policies based on what would have benefited them throughout their careers. Combined with their emphasis on fun and social connection, they're building not just a successful company but a fulfilling community.

Whether you're leading a team of two or two hundred, Emma and Kat's insights will challenge you to examine your own leadership approach and consider how aligning with your values might create not just better business outcomes but a more meaningful journey for everyone involved. Listen now to discover why sometimes the best leadership strategy isn't focusing on EBITDA at all.