How Giving More Can Make You More: The Hidden Economics of Connection with Ed Rigsbee

What if the true ROI in business wasn’t money—but meaning?

That’s the question we unpack in this week’s episode of Success Through Connections.

I sat down with Ed Rigsbee, Certified Speaking Professional and founder of Cigar PEG, a nonprofit that’s donated nearly a million dollars to causes across the U.S. since 1999. But this conversation goes far deeper than philanthropy.

Ed reveals the real engine behind thriving communities and organizations—the power of giving back, building connection, and paying “community rent.” He calls it that because every one of us owes something to the communities that built us. And when we give, we don’t just uplift others—we elevate our own success.

We dive into:

• How a simple cigar party turned into a 25-year charitable movement that’s changed lives.
• The “relationship bank deposits” that keep people engaged, loyal, and connected.
• Why associations and businesses are failing to retain younger members—and how to fix it.
• The secret to blending legacy wisdom with next-generation innovation.
• What every leader needs to know about ROI—not just in dollars, but in relationships.

This episode is full of insight, humor, and humanity. Ed doesn’t just talk theory—he’s lived it. From building trust across industries to redefining what true community looks like, his stories will make you rethink how you measure success.

If you’ve ever wondered how to keep people engaged, how to create real value, or how generosity can actually grow your business, this conversation will hit home.

Tune in—you’ll walk away inspired to invest in the kind of wealth that doesn’t fade: relationships, purpose, and community.