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Episode Description

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ is joined by Creative Works Owner and President, Armando Launti to discuss the hard reality of being a business owner. Together, they peel back the curtain on what it really takes to juggle the roles of business owner, team leader, and family person without losing your mind. Armando shares candid advice on ditching the myth of “work–life balance” in favor of a more realistic flow.

He dives into practical tips for keeping meetings lean and meaningful (like blocking focused time and setting 20- or 50-minute defaults). He also explains how an open-door policy that is backed by weekly pulse surveys, one-on-ones with department heads, and genuine shop-floor conversations helps him stay connected to every level of his team. Along the way, he emphasizes his mindset to ‘do it all’.

Key Takeaways

1. The Power of Authentic Connection – Build genuine relationships with your team to create a culture of trust and motivation that drives success.
2. Embrace Empathy to Lead Effectively – Understand your team’s needs and perspectives to help solve problems faster and boost morale.
3. Clear Communication Drives Alignment – Share your vision and expectations openly to ensure everyone works toward the same goals.
4. Mastering the Juggle – Set clear boundaries, prioritize self-care, and stay flexible to handle the demands of business ownership, team leadership, and family life while maintaining your peace of mind.

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