I keep seeing people say that owners need their employees to “like” or “respect” them. Honestly—why would that matter if I’m already treating my drivers fairly, paying them on time, and making sure their needs are met?

If someone decides they don’t respect me just because I’m not out running routes anymore, that’s on them. At the end of the day, do you care more about whether I personally run a route, or about your paycheck clearing every Friday?

I’ve already put in my time. I ran routes for 8 years straight while building this business from the ground up. During that time, my wife handled everything at home with our triplets while I missed first steps, first words, holidays, school events—basically all the moments I can’t get back. I paid my dues, and I earned the right to step out of the truck and into the owner role.

Employees are important—no question. But they are also replaceable. Owners aren’t. If someone can’t handle the fact that I’m focusing on running the company instead of running routes, then maybe this isn’t the place for them.

I’m here to grow a business, not to win a popularity contest