In this episode, I discuss the journey of Ray Reyes, founder of Coastal Growth Services, who launched his business during the COVID-19 pandemic. He shares his experiences overcoming financial fears, evolving from a home office to a team of 65 employees in just four years. Ray highlights the crucial mindset shifts from technician to strategic leader, the importance of delegation after a personal health scare, and how mentorship fuels growth. He reflects on the joy of helping his team succeed and his commitment to servant leadership, eager to guide others on their entrepreneurial journeys.
- Starting the Journey
- Scaling Up
- Building a Team
- Identity Shifts
- Transitioning from Craftsman to Leader
- Leadership Principles
- What’s Next?
Navigating Uncertainty: Ray Reyes’ Entrepreneurial Journey Amidst a Pandemic
In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of Ray Reyes, the founder of Coastal Growth Services. Ray’s story is one of resilience, courage, and the transformative power of leadership. Launching his business in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Ray faced the daunting challenges of entrepreneurship without the safety nets offered by larger competitors. He candidly shares his initial fears of financial insecurity, revealing how his wife’s faith in his capabilities empowered him to push forward despite the uncertainty.
From Den to Enterprise: Ray Reyes’ Journey of Purpose-Driven Leadership
Through our conversation, Ray recounts his beginnings operating from a den in his home, quickly evolving from casual meetings with small teams to renting spaces for larger gatherings. Each step in his journey was marked by an unwavering commitment to serve others while honing his leadership skills. As he grew from three employees to an impressive 65 in just four years, we explore the intricate dynamics of scaling a startup, especially in a turbulent economic climate. Ray emphasizes that belief in oneself and a genuine desire to help others have been pivotal to his success.
Evolving Leadership: Ray Reyes’ Journey from Technician to Visionary Leader
We delve into the vital mindset shifts that accompany rapid growth. Ray discusses his transition from being a skilled technician to a strategic leader, illustrating how he had to let go of his identity as a craftsman to focus on nurturing his team. This shift, as he reflects, was neither simple nor easy. It demanded a significant evolution in his leadership style and personal life, compelling him to prioritize the development of his people above his own operational role. Further, Ray elaborates on the critical moments that defined his leadership journey, including a personal health scare that prompted him to reevaluate his work-life balance and the necessity of delegation. He candidly discusses the lessons learned from stress management and the importance of building a reliable leadership team that could uphold the company’s vision without his direct involvement.
Leading with Purpose: Ray Reyes on Mentorship, Growth, and Uplifting Others
Ray also touches on the importance of mentorship, suggesting that surrounding oneself with experienced individuals accelerates personal and professional growth. He shares how the insights gained through challenges have not only fortified his leadership capabilities but also elevated the success of his employees, ensuring they too could achieve their personal aspirations. Towards the end of our enlightening discussion, Ray expresses gratitude for the relationships he has cultivated throughout his journey. He reflects on the joy of seeing his team members flourish professionally and personally, emphasizing that true leadership lies in uplifting others and meeting them where they are. As he looks toward the future, Ray is excited about the opportunity to help others navigate their own entrepreneurial journeys, guided by the principles of servant leadership and teamwork. Join us as Ray Reyes shares his inspiring journey and invaluable insights, encouraging us to embrace the uncomfortable transitions required to lead effectively and the profound impact of investing in others along the way.
