What’s the first job that taught you real responsibility?
The first job that taught me real responsibility was my time at CD Peacock Jewelers in Northbrook, Illinois. As a sales professional, I wasn’t just selling jewelry, I was entrusted with high-value pieces and meaningful moments in people’s lives. Helping customers with purchases and managing jewelry repairs taught me accountability, attention to detail, and the importance of building trust.
What’s one skill you’re actively working on to improve?
One skill I am actively working to improve is stewardship. When I first opened Island Glazed, my focus was primarily on building a successful business and expanding it to create larger opportunities. Over time, my perspective has evolved. I’ve come to understand that leadership carries a greater responsibility than simply scaling a company.
It requires investing in the people who make Island Glazed what it is. Today, my priority is not only building the business but intentionally developing my team by creating opportunities for them to grow in confidence, integrity, and character.
What’s something you once feared in business but now embrace?
One thing I used to fear in business was dealing with problems: operational issues, equipment failures, staffing challenges, and technical setbacks. Early on, they felt overwhelming. As I gained experience, I have learned that problems are indicators.
They expose weak systems, highlight gaps in leadership, and reveal areas where I need to grow. Every challenge at Island Glazed has sharpened my decision making, strengthened our processes, and stretched me as a leader. I don’t seek out problems, but when they arise, I see them as opportunities to improve, adapt, and elevate the business.
What’s one leadership quality you admire in others?
One leadership quality I admire most in others is empathy. I’ve always respected leaders who take the time to understand their team and make others feel secure while still challenging them to grow. That balance isn’t easy.
To me, empathy means listening before speaking and seeking to understand before correcting. Especially leading a young team, I’ve seen that people perform at their best when they feel valued, not just evaluated. When someone feels supported and understood, they’re more willing to step up, take ownership, and stretch beyond what’s comfortable.
What’s your favorite way to celebrate a win?
My favorite way to celebrate a win is to first give God the glory. I truly believe that every opportunity and every success comes from Him. Taking a moment to pause and acknowledge that keeps me grounded and reminds me that none of this is just by my own effort.
After that, I celebrate with my team. At Island Glazed, no win belongs to one person. If the business is doing well, it’s because of the people who show up every day, work hard, and care about what we’re building. Success is never individual; it is meant to be shared.
I think it’s important to recognize those moments together. Celebrating as a team reinforces that we’re in this together and that every contribution matters.
What’s a piece of advice you ignored, but later realized was right?
One piece of advice I ignored at first, but later realized was absolutely right, came from my dad when I was in high school. He told me, “Who you marry is the most important decision you will ever make.”
At the time, I didn’t fully understand the weight of that statement. But looking back now, I understand exactly what he meant. I wouldn’t have what I have today or be the person I am without my wife. She has been my foundation, my support, and my partner through every season.
Thank you, Rachel Lee. I love you!
How do you stay grounded as your responsibilities grow?
I stay grounded by reminding myself that I’m not building this alone. At Island Glazed, I’m surrounded by the right people; individuals who genuinely care and consistently give their best. That trust has been built through accountability, shared standards, and a common vision.
Knowing my team cares allows me to lead with confidence rather than control. It keeps me humble and focused on the bigger picture. Because the foundation is solid, I can think long-term; creating new opportunities and sustainable growth that helps all of us.
Remembering that this is a collective effort keeps me steady and grounded as our responsibilities grow.
What excites you most about the future?
What excites me most about the future is knowing that God has a greater plan for me and for Island Glazed than I could ever imagine. When I look back, I never envisioned living in Hawai‘i, owning a business, or building this life with my family; and that reminds me that His plans are bigger than mine.
My wife and I intentionally pray over Island Glazed. We don’t just pray for growth or success, but for purpose; that if the business prospers, it would be used to further His kingdom in whatever way He leads.
Whether that’s creating opportunities for our team, serving our community, or simply operating with integrity, we want our success to mean something beyond ourselves.
We’re just getting started and believe the best has yet to come!
