After more than 15 years together, a friend, mentor, colleague – and truly a member of my chosen family – is beginning a new chapter in his career. While I may have held the title of leader at times, the truth is that he taught me far more than I could ever teach him.
We were brought into the same environment to grow, learn, and challenge one another – and I firmly believe nothing in life happens by chance. Every experience shapes us, and every person enters our lives for a reason.
One of my favorite lessons from him didn’t come from a meeting or a project, but from a moment of honesty. As we sat side by side on spinning bikes, I shared my frustration about a family situation – fully convinced, at least in my head, that I was ready to act on it. He calmly said,
“Don’t allow him to make you into the person he wants you to be.”
That advice has stayed with me ever since. It’s one of those simple truths that becomes lifelong guidance.
Saying goodbye is never easy, especially to those you genuinely care about and look forward to seeing, regardless of circumstance. At Sparks Research, our staff is our family. My partners and I lead this business with our hearts, making decisions with the collective good in mind. Every member of this team holds a piece of that commitment – and a piece of my heart.
So, to my friend: thank you for the lessons, the loyalty, the laughter, and the years of shared purpose. Go be great in what comes next.
And to everyone reading this, a reminder: business is not just about new deals or numbers on a page. At its core, business is about relationships – and those relationships are what truly last.
