logo
Lead With Purpose, Win With People: What Top Leaders Know

Lead With Purpose, Win With People: What Top Leaders Know

Forbes17-06-2025
In a world where every company seems to claim purpose, B Corps are one of the few proving it—in action, not just intention. That was on full display at the recent BLD Mountain West gathering in Denver, where B Corps and 'B Curious' leaders from across Colorado and the Rockies came together to share, challenge, and celebrate what it means to use business as a force for good.
The conversations were diverse—from carbon accounting to workforce development—but one theme echoed across the most impactful stories: when leaders allow people to follow their passions in alignment with company values, everyone wins. It may sound risky—like a formula for chaos or drift—but the evidence shows it's the opposite: it's how you unlock sustainable performance, from the inside out. In other words, it's Leading in 3D.
The Lead in 3D framework is a method for aligning a leader's investments of time, energy, and attention across three dimensions: Me (personal wellbeing), We (team performance and culture), and World (the broader impact of our work). This multidimensional leadership isn't a luxury; it's a necessity in today's purpose-driven, resource-constrained world.
And as two standout leaders from the BLD event showed, giving people permission to pursue passion projects that align with shared values can light up all three dimensions at once.
Jennifer Riley-Chetwynd, interim CEO of the Denver Botanic Gardens, shared a powerful story of values-based leadership in practice. When she was earlier in her career at the Gardens, she was encouraged by the former CEO to dedicate time and energy to her personal passion: water conservation.
Following her passion for water conservation helped Riley-Chetwynd build an impactful and successful ... More career.
At first glance, it might not have been the most obvious fit for a public garden. But the alignment was there—botany, sustainability, and environmental stewardship are deeply interconnected with water. And rather than stifle that drive, leadership made space for it.
That decision not only unlocked Riley-Chetwynd's full engagement and commitment, but helped deepen the organization's role in regional water education and conservation work. Her passion became a platform for broader impact—and eventually part of her pathway to leadership.
It's a textbook example of the Me-We-World connection in action: honoring individual purpose, enriching team culture, and expanding community impact.
The Horizon Organic story is one many in the B Corp world were watching closely. After being acquired by Platinum Equity from Danone, there was widespread uncertainty: Would the new ownership continue the company's commitment to values? Would B Corp certification fall by the wayside?
Catherine Musulin, Head of Mission and Sustainability at Horizon Organic, didn't let those questions go unanswered. Instead, she led a fast, rigorous, and transparent process to garner internal support for the effort and successfully certify both Horizon and Wallaby as B Corps under their new ownership—a move that proved the brands' commitment to impact in the face of change.
To get the necessary buy-in, she acknowledged the potential risks to the business: failing the audit could have meant costly packaging overhauls and loss of trust with values-aligned employees and consumers. But more importantly, it would've compromised a deeply held belief that business and impact don't have to be in conflict. 'B Corp is so much more than a certification,' Musulin wrote. 'It's a journey of continuous improvement and transformation.'
As she explained, 'Purpose isn't something you define and set aside—it's something you live and evolve with. There will be moments of doubt or challenge, but staying connected to why you do what you do keeps the momentum going.'
Horizon Organic Farmer Partners practice regenerative agriculture because they want their children ... More and grandchildren to breathe clean air and eat healthy food.
Fortunately, the results speak for themselves: the effort put forth; the high score well above the certification's required threshold; and the brand's demonstrated commitment to B Corp's high standards. Horizon stands as a proof point that private equity-backed companies can and do lead with purpose.
According to Musulin, the journey forward won't be powered by checklists. It will be powered by people.
In her talk, Musulin described meeting a Horizon farmer practicing regenerative agriculture—not because it was required, but because he wanted his grandchildren to breathe clean air and eat healthy food. His personal 'why' was the most powerful form of compliance. By leaning into those deeply felt passions and moments of connection—rather than merely conducting a technical audit—Musulin believes Horizon can harness intrinsic motivations at every level of the business.
These stories illustrate what B Corp leaders have known for years, and what more traditional organizations are waking up to: the most effective and resilient form of impact comes from within.
It's tempting to think that purpose has to be assigned, architected, or branded. But more often, it already exists—in your people, your suppliers, your customers. The leadership opportunity is not to dictate it, but to recognize, support, and amplify it.
Whether you're leading a nonprofit, a PE-backed business, or a values-driven startup, here are three ways to apply this principle:
As Musulin reflected, 'Purpose doesn't just drive results; it sustains them—even when things get tough.'
In the ongoing work of rehumanizing leadership, BLD Mountain West was a much-needed reminder: your people are your strategy.
And when you lead in 3D - nourishing their wellbeing, tapping into their unique strengths, and supporting their sense of purpose - you don't have to choose between performance and passion.
Letting passion lead isn't risky. It's a strategy for sustainable success.
Letting passion lead isn't risky. It's a strategy for sustainable success.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Apartment deal flow falls 14% in Q2
Apartment deal flow falls 14% in Q2

Yahoo

time9 hours ago

  • Yahoo

Apartment deal flow falls 14% in Q2

This story was originally published on Multifamily Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Multifamily Dive newsletter. Dive Brief: Apartment sales volume fell 14% year over year to $35.1 billion in the second quarter, according to a report that data firm MSCI Real Assets shared with Multifamily Dive. However, they rose 5% to $66.6 billion in the first half of the year. Unlike the Q2 2024, no major entity-level deals closed in 2025. Last year, New York City-based investment manager Blackstone took Denver-based Apartment Income REIT Corp. private for approximately $10 billion, which drove transaction volume. The Real Capital Analytics commercial property price indexes ticked up 0.1%, according to MSCI. Cap rates have remained flat at 5.7% over the past year. Dive Insight: In its monthly report, MSCI acknowledged that the headline sales numbers for 2025 appear unfavorable. But if you dig a little deeper, things are more promising. 'The reality, though, is that the market is still the largest, most liquid component of the commercial real estate market in the U.S., with deal volume just below pre-pandemic levels,' MSCI said in the report. 'The decline for the quarter was an artifact of one big deal in the same quarter last year.' Individual asset sales, often considered the bedrock of multifamily transactions, rose 15% YOY in Q2 to $28 billion. In the five years before the pandemic, apartment trades averaged $29 billion in Q2. In the six major metropolitan areas of Boston; New York City; Washington, D.C.; Los Angeles; San Francisco; and Chicago, individual sales increased 6% to $6.7 billion in Q2. In the non-major metros, activity for these deals increased 18% YOY in the quarter on sales of $21.3 billion. Portfolio sales fell 57% to $7.1 billion in Q2. No portfolio was traded for more than $1 billion, with the six largest priced at more than $400 million. Apartment investors say the transaction market slowed noticeably after President Donald Trump's tariff announcements in April. 'We're dealing with tariffs,' Jim Brooks, president of Los Angeles-based real estate investor BH Properties, told Multifamily Dive. 'We're dealing with elevated interest rates, and not a lot of cuts are projected. So there is a high cost of capital. Things have gotten slower on the capital market side.' However, Brooks remains hopeful that things will pick up for his firm, partially because institutional investors are still not fully back in the market. 'We're optimistic, just given the way we're capitalized and the way we can operate,' Brooks said. 'Privately capitalized investment groups should have their moment in the sun before institutional capital comes flooding back in.' Click here to sign up to receive multifamily and apartment news like this article in your inbox every weekday. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data

McDonald's plans September beverage test at more than 500 locations
McDonald's plans September beverage test at more than 500 locations

Yahoo

time17 hours ago

  • Yahoo

McDonald's plans September beverage test at more than 500 locations

You can find original article here Nrn. Subscribe to our free daily Nrn newsletter. McDonald's on Thursday teased a test of new drinks that it plans to initiate at more than 500 locations starting Sept. 2. The test, based on learnings from CosMc's, a spinoff beverage-focused concept that McDonald's launched in late 2023 and then closed in June, will include iced coffee, fruit-flavored 'refreshers,' craft sodas, and energy drinks. McDonald's has been light on details so far, but it said the test would be mostly in Colorado and Wisconsin 'and the surrounding areas.' It released the name of five drinks, without providing further details: Creamy Vanilla Cold Brew, Toasted Vanilla Frappé, Strawberry Watermelon Refresher, Sprite Lunar Splash, and Popping Tropic Refresher. It said the September test would include additional items as well. The quick-service chain said feedback from franchisees and their employees would help it fine-tune aspects of any national rollout, from equipment to execution. McDonald's United States chief marketing and customer experience officer Alyssa Buetikofer said the test is based on learnings from CosMc's. 'This beverage test is rooted in what our U.S. customers have told us they want — bold, craveable flavors and exciting new drink experiences,' she said in a statement. 'These new drinks were developed specifically for the U.S. market, drawing on learnings from CosMc's and tailored to meet the evolving tastes of our fans, especially younger consumers. It's a strategic opportunity to explore menu innovation within the beverage space, while testing how we deliver these experiences operationally. As always, feedback from our customers, field teams, and owner/operators will be essential as we shape the future of beverages at McDonald's U.S.' She added that the timing of the test was not coincidental. 'We're seeing real momentum in beverages, with more people — especially our Gen Z fans — turning to cold, flavorful drinks as a go-to treat,' she said. 'It's a great opportunity for us to meet our U.S. customers' evolving tastes and show up in new moments, like afternoon refreshment or snack breaks.' McDonald's said in its quarterly earnings call in May that it would test more beverages. At the time, CEO Chris Kempczinski said the chain has about 10% of coffee share and even more opportunity in other beverage categories, such as energy drinks. 'We think we can be doing better,' he said. To that end, in March McDonald's announced the creation of global category management teams, including one to focus specifically on beverages and desserts. McDonald's beverage category lead Charlie Newberger said in a statement that the September test was part of the company's broader global beverage strategy. 'We're not just adding drinks to the menu — we're advancing our global beverage platform that fits naturally with how people already enjoy McDonald's,' he said. 'We've got the structure, the tools, and the team to move fast and scale what works. This first test in the U.S. market is a big step in our global direction.' The effort comes as drinks specialists such as Dutch Bros and Swig vastly outperform the foodservice industry as a whole. Additionally, traffic declines at many chains have spurred innovation in snacks and drinks to boost the sales of those customers who are visiting restaurants. Contact Bret Thorn at Related Articles McDonald's will shutter its CosMc's concept Despite a tough Q1, McDonald's has plenty of reason to be confident

Pvolve Inks Four New Franchise Deals to Boost Expansion
Pvolve Inks Four New Franchise Deals to Boost Expansion

Yahoo

time20 hours ago

  • Yahoo

Pvolve Inks Four New Franchise Deals to Boost Expansion

Functional Fitness Brand to Open Six Studios Across U.S. Markets Amid Rising Demand for Smarter Workouts NEW YORK, July 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pvolve, the clinically-backed functional fitness franchise that strengthens, stabilizes, and mobilizes your body, continues to build on its national growth trajectory with the signing of four new franchise agreements. The latest expansion will introduce six studios across Highlands Ranch, Colorado; Atlanta North Perimeter, Georgia; Granger, Indiana; and Richmond, Virginia, further strengthening the brand's presence in key U.S. markets. Each new studio will be independently owned and operated by passionate entrepreneurs who are aligned with Pvolve's mission to deliver a smarter, more sustainable approach to fitness. The newly signed franchisees bring diverse professional backgrounds and a shared belief in the power of movement to transform lives: Highlands Ranch, Colo.: Adrianne Rodriguez, a former medical social worker with nearly 20 years of acute care experience, witnessed firsthand the profound impact of chronic illness and preventable conditions on individuals and families. She is bringing Pvolve to Highlands Ranch, eager to provide her community with a sustainable way to move, feel better and live longer, healthier lives. Atlanta North Perimeter, Ga.: Amber Jackson, with a background in marketing, publicity and corporate operations, expands her successful Pvolve presence with a second studio. As a driven entrepreneur and single mother, she's focused on building a business that supports her own balance while inspiring others to thrive, both physically and personally. Granger, Ind.: Lynn Haberland, vice president and COO of Michiana Neurologic Medicine, brings clinical operations expertise and a passion for wellness. Drawn to Pvolve's alignment with functional medicine, she aims to introduce a fitness method that supports sustainable health and movement. Richmond, Va.: Vikas Kapila, a seasoned franchise veteran and management consultant with experience owning consulting and StretchLab franchises, signed a three-unit agreement. Motivated by helping community members invest in themselves, Kapila was attracted to Pvolve's integrated approach to fitness and wellness. "As we grow, we're inspired by the caliber of franchise partners joining our system – leaders who bring strong business experience and are deeply connected to our brand's mission and values," said Julie Cartwright, President of Pvolve. "This next wave of growth reflects our commitment to meeting consumers where they are with a method that truly supports the body in motion through strength, stability and mobility." This expansion builds on Pvolve's most recent partnership with longevity-focused Tally Health, enhancing brand visibility, franchise development and member engagement, which are essential pillars for long-term success. Supported by a robust omnichannel model that integrates in-studio classes, digital streaming and proprietary equipment, Pvolve's franchise partners are uniquely positioned to serve today's wellness-focused consumers amid rising national demand. Franchise opportunities remain available in priority markets across the U.S., including Texas, Florida and North Carolina. Pvolve is actively seeking both single-unit and multi-unit operators who are mission-driven, community-focused and passionate about health and movement. To learn more about franchising with Pvolve, visit About PvolvePvolve is a workout method that redefines fitness with a method built on the principles of strength, mobility, and stability. As the first and only clinically-proven brand in the space, Pvolve continuously sets new standards for women's health in fitness, ensuring results you can see and feel for today and for the long haul. After being introduced to functional fitness in 2017, founder Rachel Katzman was determined to help others experience an approach that respects the body's holistic needs while making you look and feel great. The Pvolve Method is supported by a Clinical Advisory Board of doctors, as well as highly credentialed trainers, to offer effective workouts that help you break a sweat, not your body. In June 2023, world-renowned actress, producer, and director, Jennifer Aniston, officially partnered with Pvolve after falling in love with the method as a member, and referring to it as "transformational." Through its hybrid fitness model, Pvolve can be experienced through a streaming membership that offers over 1,500 on-demand classes, a two-way, live virtual studio, and targeted series, all available via the web and mobile apps. Additionally, Pvolve has 25 physical studio locations across the US and Canada, with more than 50 studios in development. For more information, please visit MEDIA CONTACT: Ashlyn Pinkowski, Fishman Public Relations, apinkowski@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Pvolve

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store