Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jamie Seward. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jamie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.

The pandemic forced many businesses to close, including Repeat Roses. As someone who cares deeply about the environment and doing good in this world, I saw the opportunity in reviving the company. So, I acquired the business, recognizing its potential and the value is brings.

Restarting a business that had been forced to close due to the pandemic was a significant challenge. The initial hurdle was to breathe new life into a concept that had been dormant. We had to analyze the original business model, identifying areas for improvement and innovation.

One of the most critical tasks was reconnecting with former clients. We crafted a message that was both empathetic and optimistic, acknowledging the impact of the pandemic and outlining our plans for the future. We emphasized our commitment to delivering the same high-quality services clients had come to expect, while also highlighting the enhancements we were implementing.

The response from former clients was overwhelmingly positive. Many were excited to see the business return, and their support was instrumental in our relaunch. We quickly regained momentum, and we continue to reestablish our client base but also expanded our reach to new markets.

While the decision to acquire and restart a pandemic-impacted business was undoubtedly risky, it is proving to be a rewarding venture. By carefully analyzing the market, understanding the needs of our clients, and implementing innovative strategies, we are able to turn a challenging situation into a success story.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

As Senior Associate Director of Alumni Relations at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, I’ve had the privilege of organizing numerous events. While these events brought joy and connection, I often felt a pang of sadness as the beautiful floral arrangements were discarded after their brief moment in the spotlight.

Inspired by a desire to reduce waste and spread joy, I remembered Repeat Roses and that it had been forced to close during the pandemic. I was captivated by the mission to repurpose event flowers and deliver them to those in need. Acquiring and relaunching this business felt like a natural extension of my commitment to environmental sustainability and community service.

Now, I’m thrilled to be giving stunning floral arrangements a second life. We collect flowers from various events, carefully arrange them into new arrangements, and we deliver them to local nonprofits, hospitals, and senior living facilities. The joy and gratitude expressed by the recipients is truly heartwarming. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that we’re not only reducing waste but also brightening someone’s day.

Beyond the environmental and social impact, this initiative has fostered meaningful connections with our partner organizations. The staff and residents at these facilities have become an integral part of our mission. Their stories of resilience and hope continue to inspire me.

By giving these flowers a second chance, we’re not just extending their beauty but also spreading positivity and hope. It’s a small act with a big impact, and I’m proud to be a part of this meaningful endeavor.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Captain Class by Sam Walker has been an invaluable resource in my journey to becoming a leader and business owner. Walker’s insightful analysis of legendary captains, from sports to business, offers a compelling framework for effective leadership.

One of the core principles that resonated with me is the importance of character. Walker emphasizes that true leaders possess qualities like integrity, empathy, and resilience. These traits are not just desirable; they are essential for building strong teams, fostering trust, and navigating challenges.

Another key takeaway is the power of communication. Effective communication is the cornerstone of leadership. It involves the ability to articulate a vision, inspire others, and provide clear direction. By studying the communication styles of great leaders, I’ve learned to tailor my approach to different audiences and situations.

Moreover, Captain Class underscores the significance of taking ownership. Leaders must be accountable for their actions and the outcomes of their decisions. By embracing ownership, we can empower our teams, foster a culture of excellence, and drive positive change.

The book has not only shaped my leadership style but also influenced my approach to business. By applying the principles outlined in Captain Class, I’ve been able to build stronger relationships with clients, motivate my team, and navigate the complexities of the business world.

I am grateful for the insights and inspiration provided by Sam Walker’s work. Captain Class has been a catalyst for my personal and professional growth, and I continue to draw on its wisdom as I strive to be the best leader and business owner I can be.

Any advice for managing a team?

Effective team management is essential for organizational success. To foster a positive work environment and maintain high morale, it’s crucial to prioritize clear communication, empower team members, and cultivate a positive work culture. Open-door policies, regular check-ins, and transparent communication can strengthen team relationships. Empowering team members through delegation, recognition, and development opportunities can boost motivation and engagement. Building strong relationships, promoting work-life balance, and organizing team-building activities can create a fun and supportive atmosphere. Leaders should lead by example, demonstrating the desired behaviors and values. Providing constructive feedback, recognizing good work, and addressing performance issues professionally can enhance team performance. Setting clear expectations, defining roles and responsibilities, and providing regular updates can ensure alignment and accountability. By implementing these strategies, organizations can create high-performing teams that are motivated, engaged, and committed to achieving their goals.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://repeatroses.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/repeatroses/#
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/repeatroses/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/10413482/admin/dashboard/
• Twitter: https://www.threads.net/@repeatroses