We were lucky to catch up with Jerome Myers recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jerome, thanks for joining us today. What’s been the best thing you’ve ever seen (or done yourself) to show a customer that you appreciate them?

In our quest to truly honor and connect with our customers, we ventured into a realm where creativity meets personalization. We embarked on an imaginative journey by creating personalized artwork for our customers, but not just any artwork. We transformed them into heroes and heroines of one of the most beloved sagas of our time—Game of Thrones. This wasn’t merely a photoshop endeavor; it was a meticulous craft of integrating their personas into the heart of Westeros, where each customer wasn’t just a face in the crowd but a celebrated character in their favorite epic narrative.

The process was both intricate and profound. We paid close attention to the details—their personalities, their favorite characters, and how they could see themselves in the fantastical world of Game of Thrones. This wasn’t just about placing their faces onto characters; it was about weaving their essence into the narrative, making them feel as if they truly belonged in that world. The reactions were nothing short of magical. Laughter, tears of joy, and expressions of disbelief filled the air as customers saw themselves not just as spectators of a story they loved, but as integral parts of its legacy.

This initiative went beyond a display of appreciation; it became a bridge of connection, a testament to our dedication to not only understanding our customers but celebrating them in the most unique and personalized way possible. It was a reminder that in the vast expanse of our imagination, there are countless ways to show appreciation, and sometimes, all it takes is a leap into the extraordinary to make someone feel truly valued.

Imagine stepping into a world where the lines between fantasy and reality blur, a place where you’re not just a fan watching from afar but a key player in a saga that has captivated millions. This is precisely the transformative experience we aimed to deliver to our customers with our personalized Game of Thrones artwork.

As each customer laid eyes on their customized portrayal, they were momentarily transported to the rugged landscapes of Westeros, standing shoulder to shoulder with the likes of Jon Snow, Daenerys Targaryen, or perhaps even plotting in the shadows with Tyrion Lannister. It was an exhilarating shock, a delightful surprise that sparked a range of emotions—from the initial disbelief and wide-eyed wonder to the blooming joy and a profound sense of belonging to a world they had only ever dreamed of being part of.

For a fleeting moment, they weren’t just observing their favorite characters; they were among them, woven into the fabric of a story that has defined a generation. This experience likely evoked a deep sense of appreciation and loyalty, not just for the creative gesture itself but for the thought and effort behind it, reinforcing their connection to our brand in the most personal and memorable way possible.

This wasn’t just a gift; it was an invitation to a world where they were heroes, survivors, strategists, and rebels. It was a recognition of their individuality and a celebration of their journey with us, making them feel valued, seen, and, above all, part of a larger narrative that transcends the ordinary. It’s the kind of experience that lingers, transforming a simple act of appreciation into a cherished memory that deepens their engagement and affection for the brand.

Jerome, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Jerome Myers is a veteran business leader turned exit strategist with a profound understanding of the “Founder’s Exit Paradox.” This phenomenon speaks to the intricate emotional and psychological landscape founders traverse on their entrepreneurial journey. Jerome’s expertise is rooted in his ability to navigate and support others through this deeply complex journey of detachment, which encompasses a myriad of behavioral, affective, and cognitive processes.

Having constructed a $20 million, 175-person division of a Fortune 550 company from the ground up, Jerome is well-acquainted with the emotional investment one pours into their venture. His unique perspective integrates insights from the influential work of Martin Seligman in positive psychology with his own groundbreaking “Red Pill Model.” This combination provides a multifaceted framework for entrepreneurs to address the challenges associated with the “Founder’s Exit Paradox,” particularly across six pivotal areas: Self-Image, Relationships, Work, Health, Prosperity, and Significance.

Through his coaching programs and podcast, Jerome empowers leaders to embrace this transition gracefully, facilitating personal growth and transformation amidst change, and inviting them to confidently ask themselves, ‘Are you ready for your NEXT?’

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

My story is one of remarkable resilience, a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. As a vibrant individual known for my love of life and adventure, faced a life-altering event that would test his strength and determination in ways I never imagined.

One fateful day, my world was turned upside down. While driving on a quiet country road, I found himself in a head-on collision with a dump truck. The impact was devastating. In an instant, the life I knew, filled with independence and ease, was shattered. I was left with severe injuries, and the prognosis was grim. After being cut out of the car with the jaws of life, transported by helicopter to a hospital and spending days in ICU I left the hospital in a wheelchair.

I am not one to succumb to despair. From the moment I awoke from surgery, I was determined to defy the odds. My journey through recovery was nothing short of grueling. Every day presented new challenges, from the physical pain of my injuries to the emotional turmoil of facing a future filled with uncertainty. Yet, my spirit remained unbroken.

With an unwavering resolve, I began the arduous process of rehabilitation. The path was fraught with setbacks and frustrations. There were days when progress seemed nonexistent, and the goal of walking again felt like a distant dream. But my determination was fueled by my desire to reclaim my life and independence.

Supported by a team of dedicated therapists, family, and friends who believed in me, I slowly made strides. Each step, no matter how small, was a victory. I embraced every therapy session, every exercise, and every challenge with a positive attitude that inspired everyone around me.

My resilience was a beacon of hope, not only for myself but for others facing their own battles. My story became one of inspiration, a reminder that with determination, support, and a relentless spirit, the impossible can become possible.

After months of relentless effort, I achieved what many thought would take much longer. With sheer grit and determination, I took my first steps. It was a moment of triumph, a physical and symbolic step forward that marked a new chapter in my life.

Today, my journey continues. I walk, not just on my own two feet but as a symbol of resilience, strength, and the power of the human will to overcome adversity. My story is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is light, hope, and the potential for rebirth and renewal. Through my resilience and determination, I have shown that even the most challenging obstacles can be overcome with perseverance and a positive outlook.

Can you talk to us about your experience with selling businesses?

In the heart of the city, where the skyline was a mosaic of architectural wonders, stood a testament to my entrepreneurial journey — a thriving apartment business that I had nurtured from dilapidated and unkept. It wasn’t just a collection of buildings; it was a community, a place many called home, and a reflection of my dedication to providing quality living spaces.

As the years rolled by, the business flourished, becoming more than just a means to an end. It was a source of pride, a beacon in the local economy, and a pivotal player in the city’s housing market. Yet, with growth came the realization that to elevate the business further, to truly innovate and expand its impact, a significant change was needed. The decision to sell this portion of my apartment business wasn’t taken lightly. It was a strategic move, fraught with emotion and calculated risks, aiming to inject fresh perspectives and capital into the venture.

The journey to selling parts of my business was as much about finding the right partners as it was about ensuring the legacy and ethos of the community would be preserved and enhanced. I embarked on this path with a clear vision — to partner with entities that shared my commitment to excellence, sustainability, and community.

The process was meticulous. Every potential partner was vetted, not just on their financial offer, but on their values, their vision for the future, and their understanding of what made our community special. Meetings turned into discussions, discussions into negotiations, with every step taken with the utmost respect for the responsibility I held towards my employees, residents, and the broader community.

The day the deals were finalized marked a new chapter. It wasn’t about relinquishing control, but about collaborative growth. The partners brought with them new ideas, investments in the property, and plans for expansion that respected the original mission of the business while propelling it into the future.

This transition was met with a mixture of anticipation and optimism. To the management company’s employees, it signaled a vote of confidence in their hard work and the value of what we had built together. To the residents, it promised enhancements and innovations in their living spaces. And to me, it represented a bold step towards realizing a grander vision for what our community could become.

As I watched the business evolve, now buoyed by fresh investments and collaborative ventures, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment. Selling portions of the apartment business wasn’t just a financial decision; it was a strategic move that ensured its growth, sustainability, and continued contribution to the community.

This story wasn’t just about letting go; it was about growth, partnership, and the endless possibilities that come from embracing change. It underscored the importance of vision, the value of collaboration, and the profound impact a well-considered decision can have on a business and the lives it touches. Through this journey, I learned that sometimes, to build something even greater, you need to be willing to share your vision with others who can help make it a reality.

Contact Info:

• Website: exittoexcellence.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachjeromemyers/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeromemyers/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DreamCatchersPodcastHostedbyJeromeMyers