S2 E9 - The Significance Beyond Success

The Whole Enchilada Podcast

Jefferson Lee, the Director of Philanthropy for World Vision, joins Mitch to talk about the differences (and similarities) of the entrepreneurial spirit in both the non-profit and for-profit workspaces.

After a brief introduction, including Jefferson’s impressive fundraising record, Mitch leads the discussion by asking Jefferson for his thoughts about non-profit leaders. Jefferson responds with observations on the internal conversation one must have with himself about values, mission, and vision. The two talk about creating a culture that values more than just a paycheck.

The discussion moves to the topic of what seems to be a natural transition for some – moving from for-profit to non-profit. Jefferson makes a point about the longevity of success, citing a friend he met in Hong Kong.

The two speak specifically about entrepreneurialism in the non-profit space and Jefferson gives his three Ps, telling the story of a benefactor whose donations more than quadrupled because of those three principles and the partnership they helped forge.

Jefferson also gives the origin story of World Vision and the atrocities that a journalist witnessed while covering the Korean War. A Korean American himself, Jefferson gives a sincere thank you to the United States for giving his family the opportunity to build a better life.

The conversation wouldn’t be complete without touching on Jefferson’s success in fundraising for non-profits and he cites five points and a compelling story about changing the world one life at a time.

Finally, Mitch and Jefferson get down to the most important part of the interview: where is lunch? Jefferson says that he can’t pass up the opportunity to go to Javier’s, an upscale Mexican restaurant with locations in Southern California and Las Vegas. Mexican food purists, the pair agrees that if the chips and salsa aren’t good and fresh, then the rest of the meal isn’t worth it. Jefferson assures Mitch that Javier’s offerings are the best in the land.

Table Talk:

The team is together again, wowed by Jefferson’s philosophies and conviction.

Erin begins the conversation by highlighting Jefferson’s statement on seeking significance. How are you doing to change the world for the better? She reminisces on her beloved grandfather – a self-made man and small business owner who reached far beyond himself to help those around him.

After a minor mix up with Ivan Pavlov (and his famous dogs), Gil settles on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, where the pinnacle is self-actualization: doing what you are meant to do.

Before being interrupted by Mitch, Gil goes into Jefferson’s five fundraising tactics, starting with Number One – belief.

But wait…that’s what Mitch wanted to talk about. And Isaac says it’s what he wanted to talk about. Erin points out that she’s the only one with an original idea.

Isaac jumps right in, reminiscing that belief is a fundamental part of public relations. Belief brings greater commitment and, let’s face it, more fun.

Mitch shares his own story about taking a job he didn’t believe in…one that involved a broken-down truck, wholesale meat, and shady business practices.

Gil also cites Jefferson’s idea of making your ask into a case statement, expressing the urgency of it and why it’s different. He also expounds on the importance of getting outside your organization to gain credibility, which Mitch calls a minimum viable product.

Mitch brings it home by reiterating the importance of moving your success to significance.

Links:

World Vision

https://www.worldvision.org/

Drive by Daniel Pink

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0033TI4BW/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1

Javier’s

https://www.javiers-cantina.com/about

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