How Competitors helped my family business rebuild after a Tornado

In this episode, my guest is… well, it’s me—and I thought it was time to share a personal story that shaped how I see business, connection, and what it really takes to keep going when everything falls apart.

We talk about the summer our fourth-generation family business was nearly wiped out by a tornado. Trucks flipped. The roof peeled off like a sardine can. Produce everywhere. It looked like the end.

But it wasn’t.

What happened next? Competitors—yes, actual competitors—showed up to help. Some gave us space in their warehouses. Others offered office trailers or use of their coolers. They wanted us to survive. And we did more than that—we rebuilt, we grew, and eventually we sold the business stronger than ever.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why the relationships you build in business before a crisis are what carry you through one
• How trust and reputation create real-world opportunities (even from the most unexpected places)
• What hiring a “savior” consultant taught me—and why you need to trust your gut
• How to view competitors not as threats, but as potential collaborators

If you’re a founder, leader, or just someone figuring out how to navigate tough moments, I hope this story gives you something to think about. Because success doesn’t come from doing it all alone. It comes from showing up, building trust, and staying human.

Episode Sponsor:

This episode of Success Through Connections is brought to you by Legacy Realty Group, North Florida — the team that treats your home, your time, and your goals as top priority.
Real people. Real results. Real care.