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Mastering Leadership: The Evolution of a Multi-Generational Boot Company

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Building onto a multi-generational business and navigating the family dynamics and changes that come throughout the years is no easy thing. But Ryan and Jode Vaughan of Anderson Bean Boots have done just that! They join the show today to share their story of multi-brand ownership and how they are continuing and expanding upon a family boot legacy. Listen in as Ryan and Jode shed light on some of the most important experiences and insights that have allowed their business and family to succeed throughout the years. 

Mastering Leadership: The Evolution of a Multi-Generational Boot Company

A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Family

The Vaughans’ journey began with the Rios of Mercedes brand, a company that traces its origins back to the 1800s in Mexico. Initially crafting boots for the Mexican Calvary, the Rios family eventually moved to the Rio Grande Valley, where they started making boots for settlers. Fast forward to the early 1970s, Jodi’s father and grandfather had the opportunity to buy the company, and it has been in the family ever since.

Jodi and Ryan’s journey into the business world was a natural progression. After marrying in the late 90s, Ryan joined the family business, and together, they launched the Anderson Bean brand, named in honor of Jodi’s grandmother and great-grandmother. This brand was a tribute to the hardworking women in Jodi’s family who often went unrecognized for their contributions while the men received the glory.

As the business grew, so did the Vaughans’ family of brands, including Horsepower and Macy Bean, named after more family members. These brands reflect a deep respect for family history and the dedication required to maintain a multi-generational business.

The Challenges and Blessings of a Family Business

Running a multi-generational business is no easy feat. Ryan and Jodi have faced their fair share of challenges, from economic downturns to the sacrifices required to keep the business afloat. Yet, their shared values and commitment to their family and business have kept them grounded.

Ryan shared how his initial enthusiasm as a young college graduate with big ideas was met with resistance from Jodi’s father and his partner, both of whom had their own way of doing things. However, Ryan learned to respect the foundation that had been laid before him and to present his ideas with well-researched arguments. This approach not only helped him gain the respect of his father-in-law but also taught him the importance of servant leadership.

Servant Leadership in Action

Servant leadership is a core value for the Vaughans, who believe in leading by example and serving their employees. Ryan emphasizes the importance of working for the company and its employees, rather than the other way around. He believes that a good leader must be both a shepherd, leading from the front, and someone who is willing to get their hands dirty and work alongside their team.

Jodi adds that their business philosophy is rooted in honoring God in all that they do, and they strive to emulate the servant leadership model exemplified by Jesus. This approach has not only helped them build a strong, supportive team but also maintain the integrity of their brand.

From Entrepreneur to CEO

The transition from entrepreneur to CEO is a significant one, and it’s a journey that Ryan and Jodi have navigated with intentionality. While entrepreneurship is often characterized by a go-getter attitude and a focus on rapid growth, being a CEO requires a more methodical, long-term approach. The Vaughans understand the importance of healthy growth and have put systems in place to ensure their business is sustainable for generations to come.

One of the most significant lessons they learned was during the COVID-19 pandemic when they experienced a surge in demand. In their rush to meet this demand, they hired additional staff and ramped up production, only to find that quality suffered as a result. This experience reinforced the importance of focusing on quality and taking a measured approach to growth.

A Family Business Built to Last

The Vaughan family’s commitment to their business and each other is evident in everything they do. With over 220 employees, many of whom have been with the company for over a decade, the Vaughans have built a strong, loyal team that shares their values.

As they look to the future, Ryan and Jodi are committed to preserving the legacy of their family business while continuing to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of their customers. Their story is a testament to the power of family, faith, and servant leadership in building a successful, multi-generational business.

The Dallas Market Center: A Hub of Collaboration and Growth

Ryan was quick to highlight the Dallas Market Center’s impact on their business. He mentioned how it has become a critical venue for gathering retailers, fostering collaboration, and building relationships. The energy at the Market Center is palpable, with retailers often working together, sharing insights, and helping each other with styling and product decisions. This sense of camaraderie and mutual support is something that the Vaughans cherish deeply. Ryan noted that their showroom has become more than just a place to conduct business—it’s a space where like-minded partners can connect, share ideas, and grow together.

The Vaughans also take pride in the selective nature of their business relationships. Ryan emphasized the importance of being a good partner and working with others who share similar values and goals. This approach has cultivated a loyal fan base for their boots, and the relationships they’ve built with their retailers have become stronger over time. The idea of “community over competition” is not just a buzzword for them; it’s a guiding principle.

Embracing Change While Honoring Tradition

When discussing the future of retail, Ryan and Jode stressed the importance of being open to new ways of doing business, especially in a rapidly evolving market. They acknowledged that while the foundation of their business is rooted in tradition, they must also embrace change to stay competitive. This includes adopting online sales strategies, as many of their retailers have done successfully during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Vaughans are big believers in respecting the past while innovating for the future—a balance that has allowed them to thrive in an industry that is both deeply traditional and increasingly modern.

Wisdom in Business and Life: Building Fans, Not Just Customers

As we neared the end of our conversation, Jode shared a piece of advice that resonated deeply: “Don’t just make a customer, make a fan.” This concept, inspired by Jesse Cole of the Savannah Bananas, encapsulates the Vaughans’ approach to business. They strive to create products and experiences that leave a lasting impression, turning customers into enthusiastic advocates for their brand. This focus on building fans rather than just making sales is a testament to their commitment to quality, service, and community.

Ryan added another valuable piece of advice: “Figure out what you can be best at, even though it’s not easy.” This philosophy has guided them in carving out a niche in the Western boot industry, where competition is fierce and the challenges are many. Whether it’s quality, creativity, or comfort, the Vaughans believe in owning their strengths and continually striving to be the best at what they do.

Balancing Business and Family: The Importance of Routine and Flexibility

One of the most heartwarming parts of our conversation was when Ryan and Jode discussed how they manage to balance their business with family life. They admitted that there is often a lot of “bleed over” between the two, but they’ve found ways to make it work. For Ryan, having a good routine is key. Morning exercise, prayer, and structured work hours help him stay grounded and present for both his family and his business. Jode echoed this sentiment, adding that while structure is important, so is flexibility. The ability to adjust their schedules to prioritize family time is something they deeply value, and it’s a privilege they don’t take for granted.

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