Sure, I was tired and a bit proud. But…
The finish line is not the destination. The destination is the journey itself. It’s in putting in the work that needs to be done for a good cause. The finish line is the victory lap for all the work that’s been done.
That is how I’m feeling right now. Yes—this is an extraordinary moment. As I write this, we are about to cross the first “finish line” (with the worldwide premiere of the first episode in our docuseries https://bit.ly/3dZtc71). But in reality, it is the next starting line. There is much more to be done.
The journey of traveling the Eastern part of the country was the reward. Connecting with the amazing people I have met: hearing their stories, learning from them, and being the fortunate one to tell their stories … well, that is the reward.
I used to love the finishers’ medals from the Ironman. They still hang in my bedroom at home. These episodes are like the finishers medal … they are the lasting reminder of what we have learned and how we have grown.
The work continues … we have 8 more weeks of distributor visits and 30+ more mini-episodes.
This is the beginning, not the end.
Humbled by the Reception
When you pour your heart and soul into a project, you hope it will be received well. That’s true of the We Supply America campaign, but not for the reasons you may think. I want this to succeed so badly because it’s a chance to tell your stories, your American dream stories. Because that’s what so many of you have told me. After being so forthcoming and honest in your storytelling, I am obligated to release your stories into the universe in the most effective way possible.
Many of you have been extremely kind in your responses and enthusiastic in sharing information about this campaign on your social media accounts.
Thank you.
By sharing the story, you become a part of the story. You are all an integral part of this Noble Calling of Distribution, and I couldn’t be prouder – of my team, the people that work hard for distribution associations, and most of all, the distributors themselves.
Here is a bit more about everyone’s reaction to the first episode in our docuseries:
“Amazing look into our industry and the incredible family at Porter Pipe & Supply! Great job, everyone!” Todd Wilson, Director of National Sales and Distribution at Wayland Industries.
“Dirk, I just got a chance to watch this, and it’s an incredible production, excellent job capturing an inside look at our industry. Looking forward to seeing the other episodes!” Jimmy Porter, Jr., Porter Pipe & Supply.
“WOW. It was GREAT and touching in a lot of ways. Teamwork, family, and passion!” Thomas P. Crawford, National Accounts Manager at Legend Valve.
“Wow, great work and glad to see distributors building a great culture and appreciating their team,” Mark Chirgwin, Chief Operating Officer, Bender Plumbing Supplies.
Don’t Want the Learning to Stop? Download Our Episode Kit Today
Have you downloaded your We Supply America “Done For You” Meeting in a Kit from the Porter Pipe & Supply Company episode?
Each episode of We Supply America provides insights and inspiration to help you and your team further your mission. Each is a masterclass in the Why, What, and How of distribution – from which you can glean valuable and practical lessons.
Our Meeting in a Kit is designed for leaders to facilitate deep and meaningful conversations with team members about each episode. When you download the kit, you’ll immediately receive a:
- Meeting Outline and Agenda
- PDF Presentation to Lead the Discussion
- Meeting Handout for Individual Self Reflection
- Guide to Lead the Conversation from Self Reflection to Team Commitment
- Poster for Continued Reinforcement of the We Supply America Message
I put a lot of thought and heart into this to make it as impactful as possible. Be sure to download your free kit here: https://bit.ly/3dZtc71
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