Ever wondered what it's like to build a family business that spans generations? Steve Kelling, CEO of Sherman Buildings, pulls back the curtain on fifty years of leadership in a refreshingly candid conversation that defies typical business advice.

With disarming honesty, Steve describes himself as "lazy" and "always looking for an opportunity to delegate rather than do" – yet this counterintuitive approach reveals the heart of effective leadership. His philosophy centers on building for tomorrow rather than obsessing over today's perfection. "I don't care if we make money or things go perfect today," he explains. "It's about learning and preparing for the next step, for tomorrow."

The conversation delves into how Sherman Buildings has evolved from a male-dominated workplace with cigarette-burned keyboards to a diverse company where women have transformed both operations and culture. Steve's perspective on customer relationships is equally enlightening – rather than promising perfection, he advises clients to "judge us by how we respond to mistakes, how we fix them, how we take care of them." This approach has created a business where family members, friends, and employees genuinely want to participate.

Perhaps most fascinating is Steve's unique relationship with stress. "The only reason I know stress exists is because I've witnessed other people endure it," he shares, offering a perspective that questions our fundamental assumptions about business pressure. His reflection on how becoming a grandparent softened his temperament reveals how personal growth shapes leadership style over time.

Whether you're running a family business, leading a team, or simply curious about sustainable success, this conversation offers valuable insights on building something that truly lasts. Visit thatswhatsheshedlive.com to continue the leadership conversation and explore opportunities to share your own experiences on the show.