FMF #57: Blue Collar Cash w/ Ken Rusk

Real Business Connections

Fifteen Minute Fridays episode #57 Ken Rusk.

Watch the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/3J0Kbh25Lmo

Embracing intrapreneurship within a company’s structure has numerous benefits. It drives professional success and enriches our lives with comfort, peace, and freedom.

In today’s episode, we dive into the insightful wisdom of Ken Rusk, renowned author of “Blue-Collar Cash” and President of Rusk Industries. He shares invaluable wisdom gained from his journey, starting as a humble ditch digger and rising to entrepreneurial success without a college degree.

His mantra, “You can’t get what your company wants or needs until everybody in that company gets what they want first,” sets the stage for our profound exploration into the dynamics of business success.

Ken sheds light on the detrimental impact of ego in hindering the progress of business owners and emphasizes the concept of intrapreneurship, highlighting its pivotal role in fostering innovation and growth within a company.

Additionally, Ken outlines practical strategies for effectively managing intrapreneurs and cultivating an environment where innovation flourishes. Finally, we discuss ways to ensure that your company is always winning and explore the characteristics of a poorly run company.

Quote Of The Day:

“You can’t get what your company wants or needs, nor can you get what you want for yourself until everybody in that company gets what they want first.” ~Ken Rusk

Timestamp:

[01:35] Ken Rusk’s bio

[02:16] What Ken has learned from Paychex founder Tom Golisano

[03:41] Quote of the day: “You can’t get what your company wants or needs, nor can you get what you want for yourself until everybody in that company gets what they want first.” ~Ken Rusk

[04:32] How the ego of business owners impedes their progress

[05:36] What are intrapreneurs, and how do they help you build your company?

[07:41] Why intrapreneurship is good for your company and how to manage intrapreneurs effectively

[09:09] Ways to ensure that your company is winning

[10:32] Characteristics of a poorly run company

[13:00] Integration assignment

[14:24] How to get in touch with Ken Rusk

Website: http://www.kenrusk.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KenRuskOfficial

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenrusk.official

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KenRuskOfficial

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenruskofficial/

Key Takeaways:

• “You can’t get what your company wants or needs, nor can you get what you want for yourself until everybody in that company gets what they want first.” ~Ken Rusk [03:41]

• Businesses are linear entities: there is input, there is work, and then there is output. As an owner or business manager, you are always on the output side. Therefore, for you to succeed in the end, a lot of great things must happen in the beginning. [03:52]

• “When everybody is winning the whole company wins.” ~Ben Albert [09:02]

• “A true entrepreneur is a leader.” ~Ken Rusk [09:31]

• When many people win within your company, there is more fun, more synergy, and less stress. [09:49]

Integration Assignment:

1. Find a quiet space. Get out your crayons and poster board.

2. Draw your favorite house, car, vacation spot, hobby, spiritual moment, health moment, and pet. Be sure to include vivid details, making your drawings as colorful and concise as possible.

3. Envision living that ideal life.

4. Next, display your creation on the wall.

5. Embark on interviews at various places and share your vision, asking, “Can I fulfill these goals through your organization?”

6. Pay close attention to the responses you get. If they show genuine interest in your success, you’ve likely found the right place to be.

People Mentioned and Other Resources:

1. Tom Golisano

2. Blue-Collar Cash: https://bit.ly/3UuYbO4

3. Built, Not Born: https://bit.ly/4d7xIgN

Keep In Touch with Ken Rusk:

Website: http://www.kenrusk.com/