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Jim Weber

Brooks Running, Former CEO
EPISODE 106

The power of focus

Let me ask you, have you felt stuck not knowing how to prioritize areas of your business? It’s hard to figure out what’s worth focusing on and what isn’t. And hey, let’s face it, it’s tempting to chase every shiny new opportunity that comes along! But when you listen to today’s episode, you’ll see that some pretty incredible things can happen in your business when you understand the power of focus. 

My guest today is Jim Weber, the CEO of Brooks Running. When he took over 20 years ago, they were trying to compete in every athletic category – and they were losing 4 or 5 million bucks a year doing it. Jim said, "Hey, let’s focus on ONE category – running – and let’s master it." And at first, the business shrank. But the very next year, the strategy was working. Now, they’ve crossed over the 1 billion dollar milestone in revenue. And they’ve got an extremely loyal customer base of runners, including my daughter Ashley, who ran a half marathon in Brooks! 

It all started with the power of focusing on a single type of customer. If you want to learn how it happened – and how to use the power of focus in your business – well, keep listening! Here is my conversation with my good friend – and soon to be yours – Jim Weber.

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More from Jim Weber

When you aren’t the category leader, become known for a niche
When you’re up against a behemoth in your market, remember that focus is a strength. Find a specific niche you can beat them in, and then go for it!

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Short (but powerful) leadership advice from entrepreneurs and CEOs of top companies like JPMorgan Chase, Target, Starbucks and more.

Clips

  • If you’re sinking, burn the boats
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • Celebrate along the journey, not just at the finish line
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • When you aren’t the category leader, become known for a niche
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • Enduring brands solve for profitability
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • You have to earn your customers
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • Scaling revenue requires scaling culture
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • Values are just words until they drive behavior
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • You can never communicate enough
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • Don’t beat your competition; win your customer
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • In times of uncertainty, do your homework
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • Know why your customers trust you (so you don’t lose it)
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • Your people strategy is as important as your business strategy
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO
  • Know what’s most important to you—and then do it
    Jim Weber
    Jim Weber
    Brooks Running, Former CEO

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