Catching Up With Author Michael Kurland

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

Our social impact program, One-For-One, has resonated with our team, clients, and nonprofit partners and it is directly tied to our business operations. That is, for every service call we receive, we donate a meal to Feeding America. We also host a number of other events, like virtual 5Ks, and backpack and holiday drives to help local families. Collectively, these various components of our culture drive engagement and retention, and people enjoy “coming” to work.  

Beaulieu: Now let’s get to your book, which I loved by the way. This book is basically about improving yourself, becoming a better and more inspiring leader. What are some of the most important things you learned on the journey?

Kurland: I think one of the most important things I learned is that you must adopt a mindset of continuous improvement—never become complacent in anything in life. Even if you’re in a season of major wins, don’t sit back and enjoy the ride for too long. Always be looking for what’s coming next. Likewise, when you’re going through a challenge, that’s the time to dig deep and ask for help to solve the problem in front of you. 

Beaulieu: I am impressed that you were self-aware enough to realize that you had to “fix” yourself as a leader. What was the “a-ha” moment when you realized this?

Kurland: I think the “a-ha” moment was when my roommate Jon Thomas called me out as I mentioned. It was a wake-up call to stop whining, being selfish, and fix what was broken. As hard as it was to hear, it was exactly what I needed.

Beaulieu: What drove you to get better? Can you share an example of when you knew you could, in fact, become a better leader?

Kurland: I think I was driven to Be Better the moment Jon said those words to me. I didn’t waste time getting my personal life in order because without your health, you really can’t accomplish anything. Second, the continual self-reflection along with therapy helped me to work through some of the challenges so I could begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Also, as my team grew, I realized that I had to think about their needs. I was providing their salary. I had to be better because they depended on me. As a leader, you may think it’s all about you, but it’s not. It’s about your team. The better you treat them, the more you give to them, the more valued and appreciated they will feel. Invest in your most valuable players—your team. You’ll never regret it.

Beaulieu: What is the most important thing our readers need to be a great leader?

Kurland: Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable. Be yourself. People can see through you in a heartbeat, and they can spot a fake a mile away. You have to do what you say you will do. Integrity and your character are of the utmost importance. 

Beaulieu: Michael, thank you for taking the time to write this book. What motivated you to write it?

Kurland: I wanted to write the book primarily to share the lessons I’ve learned as a CEO and an entrepreneur. Like I said in my book, launching a business is not for the faint of heart, yet it can be very rewarding on so many levels. Additionally, maybe because of my story and some of the mistakes I’ve made, others could learn from them and do better. Of course, every business is different and not everything I did will work for other entrepreneurs, yet I feel that many of the Be Better principles will resonate with people both personally and professionally.

Beaulieu: What were your goals? What did you hope to accomplish?

Kurland: I hoped that by sharing my story that others would be inspired and know that anything is possible if you are willing to work hard and not give up. I believed that I would succeed even as I was driving across the country to launch Branded Group. I also did my research, so I knew what was needed in the market. I knew that I would do whatever it took to make my business the best it could be. I had the skills, the passion, and the connections. 

Beaulieu: Who is the book for? Who should read and benefit from this book?

Kurland: The book is for anyone who is striving to be better, whether you are an entrepreneur, a CEO, or even a college student. The 13 Be Better principles are clear guidelines on how to be successful whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned leader. As we look to the future of work, we need to raise up a next generation of leaders who are resilient, empathetic, and innovative. 

Beaulieu: I am always interested in writers and their process. How did you write this book? Did you write a little very day? What method did you use to write it?

Kurland: I had the support of a seasoned writer. She interviewed me at length, week after week, until I downloaded my full story. Working with a trusted writer was essential for me because, as a professional with ADHD, I know my limits and how I work best. This partnership enabled me to achieve a milestone that I could have not achieved on my own. 

Beaulieu: Michael, as we conclude the interview, what is the single most important thing you would like to convey to our readers?

Kurland: Be yourself. Don’t imitate anyone else—even me. What worked for me and my business may not work for you. That’s fine. Spend time getting to know who you really are because, as a leader, people pay more attention to what you do than what you say. Integrity is critical. Authenticity is critical. Don’t be afraid to be vulnerable, and don’t be afraid to fail at life or in leadership. Just be better.

Beaulieu: Michael, thanks for the taking the time to do this today. I truly appreciate it and I'm sure our readers will as well.

Kurland: No problem. My pleasure.

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