Social Capital vs. Financial Capital

I recently read, The Red Helicopter, by James Rhee—a powerful parable about how a Korean American private equity investor transformed into the CEO of Ashley Stewart, a clothing store for Black, plus-size women on the brink of collapse. Originally brought in to softly land the company into foreclosure, James instead used a mix of “kindness and math” to turn it into an award-winning retail success story.

This story is about more than just a business turnaround. It’s a call to infuse civility and humanity into the rigidity of a balance sheet. It challenges us to see that “balance and innovation can emerge when two distinct sets of ideas or voices are permitted to co-exist.”

While James is a highly educated and respected businessman, he knew that credentials alone don’t guarantee success. The secret sauce in most thriving industries isn’t just what’s being sold—it’s the creation of a unique experience and feeling that draws people in.

Take Ashley Stewart, for example. With countless clothing stores out there, why do people choose to work or shop there? Because it offers a sense of community and connection that can’t be replicated. It’s the same magic behind Will Guidara’s approach in Unreasonable Hospitality. Sure, there are plenty of great restaurants with excellent food, but what propelled his restaurant to the #1 world ranking was an unwavering commitment to the guest experience. The food was great, but the experience was exceptional.

Leadership: What About Your Team?

Employee retention and loyalty are major challenges for CEOs. But ask yourself:

• Have you put yourself in your staff’s shoes?

• Do you know what truly matters to them?

• Are their inherent strengths being recognized and leveraged?

• Do you trust them enough to let go?

We are all in the “people business.” Every employee is there by choice. When times get tough, it’s natural to tighten your grip, become more rigid, and dictate rather than collaborate.

That’s fear talking.

A Challenge to Lead Differently

I challenge you to take a different approach. If you’ve hired the right people, let them do their jobs. They are the wisdom in the room. They know what will lead to success—if you ask. Then listen and believe them.

When I started a high-volume orthopedic total joint program years ago, I walked into a world of siloed chaos among departments and independent-minded surgeons. Instead of jumping into clinical care, I spent the first two months simply learning from the staff. I saw no patients. I asked questions, listened, and observed.

By honoring their expertise and identifying barriers, we built a streamlined process that played to their strengths. The success was already within them—they just needed a framework to shine. Together, we created a nationally recognized program.

It was never just about the surgery. It was about honoring the clinicians, getting out of their way, and creating a culture of trust and belonging. We built a sense of collective ownership that fueled excellence for our patients. Everyone felt it. It was fun, exhilarating, challenging—and wildly successful.

My Challenge to You:

• Step away from “bottom-line” thinking and discover what unique value your company or team offers. Capitalize on that!

• Trust your people. They’ll tell you what’s needed if you ask—and then listen.

• As a leader, your role is to look up, strategize, and craft a compelling story that inspires action. Open the door and let your team walk through it.

The power of social capital—of community, connection, and trust—can transform not just your business, but the lives of those who contribute to it.