It's in the tea leaves....

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending a special fundraising event for Gilda's Club of Simcoe Muskoka. Gilda's Club is a remarkable non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals impacted and living with cancer. Their work is truly inspiring, providing support and a sense of community to those who need it most.

During the event, amidst vibrant conversations and shared laughter, we found ourselves in a delightful group making small talk with none other than Michael Higgins, a key figure from the 111-year-old family business, Mother Parkers Tea & Coffee.

As the evening progressed and our discussions meandered through various topics, I couldn't help but seize the opportunity to learn from someone with such a rich legacy. So, I finally asked, "Michael, what is the secret to the success of your business?"

He paused thoughtfully, then shared with us a piece of wisdom that resonated deeply. "Honesty and hard work," he said, "are the two foundational, non-negotiable traits for any successful business."

Michael's words struck a chord. These timeless values, passed down through generations, have been the bedrock of Mother Parker's Tea Company's century-long success. His insight reminded us all that while strategies and technologies may change, the core principles of integrity and dedication remain steadfast.

Reflecting on Michael's advice, I realized how these very principles are echoed in the values of Oklahoma Media. Oklahoma Media was founded on the same tenets of honesty and hard work. Before even meeting Mr. Higgins, 'honesty' was a word we made sure was on every social bio we have.

This revelation was further affirmed by our recent collaboration with an incredible new organization, GenWell. The founder of The Genwell Project, Pete Bombaci emphasizes a modern take on Michael's advice, encapsulating it in a straightforward yet powerful mantra: you have to give a shit and get shit done. This no-nonsense approach underscores the importance of passion and execution in achieving meaningful impact.

At Oklahoma Media, we are thrilled to know that our values align so closely with those of both Michael Higgins and The Genwell Project. It is a profound affirmation that we are on the right track, driven by a commitment to honesty, hard work, and a relentless drive to make a difference.

As we continue our journey at Oklahoma Media, Nat and I will carry forward these lessons, inspired by the wisdom of the past and invigorated by the passion of the present. Here's to building a future that honours these foundational principles, ensuring that we not only succeed but also make a lasting impact on the world around us.