Brad Martin, Chairman of RBM Ventures, Vice Chairman of FedEx Corporation, and Retired Chairman and CEO of Saks Incorporated, Episode 239
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Brad Martin has significant experience in leadership, corporate strategy, public company governance, and entrepreneurial ventures. He served nearly 20 years as Chairman and CEO of Saks Incorporated. During his tenure, the enterprise grew from a $70 million annual revenue 10-store chain into one of the largest department store businesses in the United States. He has previously served on the Boards of Caesars Entertainment, Dillard’s, Chesapeake Energy, First Horizon, Gaylord Entertainment, Lululemon Athletica, and Ruby Tuesday. Brad served five terms as a member of the Tennessee House of Representatives and was Interim President of the University of Memphis from 2013 – 2014 and he also chairs the Board of the Martin Family Foundation.
Brad is with me on the show this week to share his personal journeys in leadership, service, and business growth. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, humility, and continuous learning, as well as how taking calculated risks and visualizing success has helped him move forward professionally and personally. We also dig into the value of service and the need for perseverance, resilience, and mindfulness in the face of challenges.
“The question is, are you willing to risk embarrassment?” - Brad Martin
“The best leaders I have ever met are continuously trying to learn and to get better.” - Brad Martin
“Business can play a huge role in service, growth, and the betterment of a community” - Brad Martin
This Week on The Wow Factor:
Why Brad ran for Tennessee House of Representatives at 20 years old, despite being up against a seasoned politician
How tenacity and belief in your vision can lead to success
How Brad uses visualization techniques to help him stay focused and motivated
Why sometimes you need to take risks and face potential embarrassment for personal growth
How to develop a clear vision and action plan for achieving your goals
Brad discusses storytelling in leadership and decision-making and why it moves you forward
How Brad unexpectedly found purpose in business when he realized business could make a positive impact
The impact of seeking mentors on your success and the importance of being humble and teachable
Reflections on Brad’s 20-year career at companies like Saks, Lululemon, and FedEx
Understanding and being aware of the potential consequences of our actions, whether positive or negative, and why it’s important to be more forgiving of people who make mistakes
Brad Martin’s Words of Wisdom:
As a leader, it is absolutely critical to be a continuous learner and model that for your team. It doesn't matter how old you are, what job you have, or what you've accomplished—there's always more you can learn.
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