Tim Hadley of Evive Brands: Five Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Became A CEO

An Interview With Doug Noll

To create a fantastic work culture, business leaders need to prioritize the well-being and development of their employees. This can be achieved by fostering open communication, creating a safe and inclusive environment, investing in employee development, recognizing, and rewarding excellence, and fostering teamwork and collaboration. By prioritizing the well-being of their staff, leaders can create a positive and productive work culture that inspires employees to achieve their best and contribute to the success of the company.

As a part of our series called ‘Five Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Became A CEO’ we had the pleasure of interviewing Tim Hadley.

Tim Hadley is Chief Executive Officer of Evive Brands, a Riverside-backed holding company, representing Executive Home Care, Assisted Living Locators, and Grasons Co. franchise systems and is actively seeking additional brands that align with its mission to provide clients easy solutions in their time of need.

Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dig in, our readers would like to get to know you a bit more. Can you tell us a bit about your “backstory”? What led you to this particular career path?

I am a seasoned entrepreneur and leader with a strong track record of building successful businesses in the healthcare industry. I have a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the home healthcare industry and am committed to providing exceptional support and services to families and communities across the United States. Since joining Evive Brands in 2021, my mission is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people every day. I’m passionate about the impact that quality care can have on clients and their families, and I’m focused on building a company culture that reflects this. I’m dedicated to fostering a work environment that promotes happiness and fulfillment, and to building a community of brands that help people live and thrive.

Can you share the most interesting story that happened to you since you began leading your company?

An interesting story that stands out to me is the founding of our company Evive Brands. It all started with a passion for connection, community, and care. We recognized that life can be challenging, and that people need support, so we set out to provide easy solutions for people in their time of need.

Today, Evive Brands is a community of brands dedicated to delivering exceptional support and services to families and communities across the United States. Our premier franchise systems include Executive Home Care, Assisted Living Locators, and Grasons, all aligned with our vision to provide peace of mind and increase the well-being of our clients and those closest to them.

Our logo, a connection grid, symbolizes our commitment to seamlessly fitting into the lives of our clients. We’re dedicated to providing care, support, and community in a way that allows our clients to continue living and thriving without interruption.

At Evive Brands, we understand that quality service is more than just a business philosophy — it’s a way of life. The people behind the service are key to making a real difference in the lives of our clients and their families, especially when working with individuals who require assistance and support. By fostering a work environment that promotes happiness and fulfillment, we’re able to deliver quality service that is second to none.

Evive Brands will continue to grow with future acquisitions and partnerships to enhance our portfolio and make quality care readily available throughout the United States.

Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?

When we first started franchising, there was definitely a bit of a learning curve. One of the funniest mistakes I made was not fully understanding the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). I was surprised to learn that not only would potential franchisees be able to see our information, but we would also be able to see information about our competitors.

This taught me an important lesson about the importance of thoroughly understanding all aspects of franchising. It’s been a great learning experience, and I’m grateful to have grown as a leader in the franchising industry.

None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?

There’s one person who immediately comes to mind that has been instrumental in my success, Bob Gouy, the former owner of United Seating and Mobility. When I was just starting out in my career, Bob took me under his wing and provided me with invaluable mentorship and guidance. He trusted me with important responsibilities and allowed me to learn from my mistakes without fear of reprimand. This gave me the space to grow and develop my skills while still being held accountable for my work.

He taught me the importance of having mentors who believe in you and support you even when you make mistakes. Thanks to Bob’s guidance and mentorship, I was able to grow and develop my skills and eventually go on to launch Evive Brands. I’m incredibly grateful to him for all that he did for me and will always remember the lessons he taught me.

Leadership often entails making difficult decisions or hard choices between two apparently good paths. Can you share a story with us about a hard decision or choice you had to make as a leader?

As a leader, I’ve certainly had to make difficult decisions and choices over the years. One that comes to mind is when I had to terminate a close friend for a violation of company rules. I knew that as a leader, it was important to set a strong example for the rest of the team and make it clear that everyone is held accountable to the same standards. Ultimately, it helped to reinforce our company’s culture of accountability and showed everyone that we take our rules and standards seriously.

Ok, thank you for that. Let’s now jump to the primary focus of our interview. Most of our readers — in fact, most people — think they have a pretty good idea of what a CEO or executive does. But in just a few words can you explain what an executive does that is different from the responsibilities of the other leaders?

In general, executives are responsible for setting the strategic direction and vision of an organization and ensuring that it is successfully executed. While other leaders may focus on specific areas such as operations, finance, marketing, or human resources, executives have a broad view of the entire organization and are responsible for making decisions that will impact the company’s overall success. They are often the public face of the organization, interacting with stakeholders, investors, and the media, and setting the tone and culture of the organization. The specific responsibilities of executives can vary depending on the size and type of the organization, but their role is to provide leadership and direction to ensure the success of the company.

What are the “myths” that you would like to dispel about being a CEO or executive? Can you explain what you mean?

There are several common myths and misconceptions about being a CEO or executive. One of the most significant myths is that CEOs are always in control, but in reality, they face numerous internal and external challenges, and they often have to make difficult decisions that are outside of their control. Another myth is that CEOs are always successful, but in reality, many CEOs face failures, setbacks, and crises. The most successful CEOs are those who can learn from their failures and adapt to changes in the industry. In addition, some people believe that CEOs are born with innate qualities that make them successful, but the truth is that successful CEOs come from a variety of backgrounds and have different skills and traits. While some people may have a natural inclination toward leadership, many CEOs have developed their skills through education, experience, and hard work.

What is the most striking difference between your actual job and how you thought the job would be?

As a leader in the franchising industry, I’ve found that my job is largely what I expected it to be. However, there is one key difference that I’ve noticed: sometimes franchisees don’t always want the input or support that I’m offering.

As someone who is passionate about helping others succeed, I’ve learned that in order to be effective, it’s important to understand where each franchisee is coming from and to meet them where they’re at.

Sometimes this means taking a step back and giving franchisees the space to make their own decisions, even if they don’t align with my own perspective. Other times, it means finding new ways to communicate and build relationships with franchisees so that they feel more comfortable coming to me for help and support.

Despite these challenges, I’m continually inspired by the passion and dedication of our franchisees, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to help them succeed in their own businesses. While my job may not always be exactly what I expected, it’s certainly a rewarding one that allows me to make a positive impact in the lives of others.

Do you think everyone is cut out to be an executive? In your opinion, which specific traits increase the likelihood that a person will be a successful executive and what type of person should avoid aspiring to be an executive? Can you explain what you mean?

Not everyone is cut out to be an executive. While many people aspire to be in leadership positions, being an executive requires a unique set of skills, traits, and experiences. Successful executives are typically strong communicators who are able to articulate their vision and motivate their team towards a shared goal. They possess a strategic mindset and the ability to make tough decisions in uncertain and complex situations. They are also able to manage risk and adapt quickly to changing circumstances.

To be a successful executive, one should possess qualities like good communication, strategic thinking, decision-making ability, adaptability, and risk management skills. It’s also important to be able to inspire and motivate others towards a shared vision. Additionally, having a diverse range of experiences can be an advantage, as it can help executives navigate the challenges and opportunities of running an organization.

On the other hand, people who are not comfortable with making decisions in uncertain and complex situations, or who do not enjoy working in high-pressure environments, may struggle in executive roles. Those who do not have strong communication skills, strategic thinking abilities, and risk management skills may also find it challenging to succeed as an executive. It’s important for individuals to assess their strengths and weaknesses, and their comfort level with the demands of executive leadership, before aspiring to a top leadership position.

What advice would you give to other business leaders to help create a fantastic work culture? Can you share a story or an example?

To create a fantastic work culture, business leaders need to prioritize the well-being and development of their employees. This can be achieved by fostering open communication, creating a safe and inclusive environment, investing in employee development, recognizing, and rewarding excellence, and fostering teamwork and collaboration. By prioritizing the well-being of their staff, leaders can create a positive and productive work culture that inspires employees to achieve their best and contribute to the success of the company.

At Evive Brands, the value of quality service is more than just a business philosophy — it’s a way of life. We understand that the people behind the service are the key to making a real difference in the lives of clients and their families. This is especially important when working with individuals who require assistance and support. By fostering a work environment at Evive Brands that promotes happiness and fulfillment, we are able to deliver quality service that is second to none.

How have you used your success to make the world a better place?

As the CEO of Evive Brands, I am proud to lead a multi-branded service organization that unites premier franchise systems, including Executive Home Care, Assisted Living Locators, and Grasons Co., to provide exceptional support and services to families and communities across the United States. Our vision for Evive Brands is to help people live and thrive, no matter what life throws their way, and we are committed to delivering resources that create a first-class experience for our clients and increase their well-being. I am honored to work with a community of brands that is dedicated to providing easy solutions for people in their time of need. At Evive Brands, we understand that life can be challenging, and that people need support. That’s why we’ve brought together the best in the industry to provide quality care services to families and communities across the nation. We look forward to continuing to expand our partnerships to enhance our portfolio and make quality care readily available throughout the United States.

Fantastic. Here is the primary question of our interview. What are your “Five Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before I Became A CEO” and why? (Please share a story or example for each.)

1 . Start on offense not on defense: It’s easy to get caught up in being reactive as a CEO, but being proactive can lead to better outcomes. Taking risks, making decisions, and driving innovation can put a company ahead of its competitors. Being on offense means having a clear vision and a plan of action to achieve it.

2. Have a network of mentors: It’s essential to have a network of mentors to offer guidance, advice, and support. Mentors can provide insights from their own experiences, help you navigate challenges, and offer feedback to help you grow as a leader.

3. Communication is key: Clear and consistent communication is vital to building trust and fostering collaboration within a team. It’s important to communicate transparently, actively listen to feedback, and make sure everyone is on the same page.

4. Explain the why, don’t dictate the what: Leaders who explain the “why” behind their decisions can inspire their team to be more engaged and motivated. By providing context and involving others in the decision-making process, leaders can create a sense of ownership and purpose within their team.

5. Change is tough for everyone in their own way: Change can be difficult, and as a leader, it’s important to recognize and address the challenges that come with it. Being open to feedback, actively listening to concerns, and being transparent about the changes and their rationale can help to ease the transition for everyone involved.

You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good for the greatest number of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger.

As the CEO of Evive Brands, I am always looking for ways to make a positive impact on the world. If I could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good for the greatest number of people, it would be to promote the values of compassion, care, and community in everything we do. I believe that we can create a world where everyone has access to the care and support, they need to live and thrive, no matter what life throws their way. This can be achieved by encouraging and supporting initiatives that promote equity, inclusivity, and well-being, and by fostering a sense of connection and community among individuals and organizations across the globe. I believe that together, we can make a difference and create a world that is more compassionate, caring, and connected.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

One of my favorite life lesson quotes is, “It’s not about how many times you get knocked down, it’s how many times you get back up.” I think this quote is particularly relevant for anyone in a leadership role, as it speaks to the importance of perseverance, resilience, and a willingness to keep trying even in the face of adversity.

Throughout my career, I’ve faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but I’ve always tried to keep this quote in mind and stay focused on moving forward. I believe that being a leader is all about continuous learning and growing, and that sometimes the biggest lessons come from the hardest moments.

When things don’t go according to plan, it can be tempting to give up or throw in the towel. But I’ve learned that the most successful leaders are the ones who are able to pick themselves up, dust themselves off, and keep moving forward even when things are tough.

This quote has been relevant to me throughout my life, both personally and professionally. It’s a reminder to stay resilient in the face of adversity, to keep pushing forward even when things get difficult, and to never lose sight of the importance of continuous learning and growth.

We are very blessed that some very prominent names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column.is there a person in the world, or in the US with whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this if we tag them

If I could have a private breakfast or lunch with anyone in the world, I would choose Mark Cuban. I have a tremendous amount of respect for his business acumen, his willingness to think outside the box, and his commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

As a sports junkie myself, I’ve always been impressed by Cuban’s success as an entrepreneur and owner of the Dallas Mavericks. I appreciate his no-nonsense approach to business, and his willingness to hold people accountable and solve problems in innovative ways.

What’s more, Cuban is also a philanthropist who has used his wealth and influence to make a positive impact in the world. From supporting education and healthcare initiatives to investing in startups and small businesses, Cuban has demonstrated a deep commitment to helping others succeed.

I think meeting Mark Cuban would be an incredible opportunity to learn from one of the most successful and innovative business leaders of our time. I have no doubt that I would come away from the conversation with a wealth of new ideas and insights that would help me become a better leader and entrepreneur.

Thank you for these fantastic insights. We greatly appreciate the time you spent on this.

About the Interviewer: Douglas E. Noll, JD, MA was born nearly blind, crippled with club feet, partially deaf, and left-handed. He overcame all of these obstacles to become a successful civil trial lawyer. In 2000, he abandoned his law practice to become a peacemaker. His calling is to serve humanity, and he executes his calling at many levels. He is an award-winning author, teacher, and trainer. He is a highly experienced mediator. Doug’s work carries him from international work to helping people resolve deep interpersonal and ideological conflicts. Doug teaches his innovative de-escalation skill that calms any angry person in 90 seconds or less. With Laurel Kaufer, Doug founded Prison of Peace in 2009. The Prison of Peace project trains life and long terms incarcerated people to be powerful peacemakers and mediators. He has been deeply moved by inmates who have learned and applied deep, empathic listening skills, leadership skills, and problem-solving skills to reduce violence in their prison communities. Their dedication to learning, improving, and serving their communities motivates him to expand the principles of Prison of Peace so that every human wanting to learn the skills of peace may do so. Doug’s awards include California Lawyer Magazine Lawyer of the Year, Best Lawyers in America Lawyer of the Year, Purpose Prize Fellow, International Academy of Mediators Syd Leezak Award of Excellence, National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals Neutral of the Year. His four books have won a number of awards and commendations. Doug’s podcast, Listen With Leaders, is now accepting guests. Click on this link to learn more and apply.