The CEO Who Cut Prices, Raised Wages, and 12x'd Profit Anyway | Brandon Coleman III
From The Business of Joy by Lisa W. Miller
April 14, 2026 · 43 min · Season 7 · Episode 6
About this episode
Brandon Coleman III shares his unconventional approach to leadership that led to significant profit growth by prioritizing employee and customer feedback.
Gravy-powered rocket ship. 12x EBITDA. His dad made him write a P&L for his lemonade stand, even though Brandon Coleman III couldn't pronounce the word "quarters" yet. Same kid. Forty years later. Now he's leading major brands. Another story that shaped his leadership style: Early in his career, he walked into a restaurant and ordered his own promotion. His server looks at him and says: "I wouldn't do that." He waited until the rush died down. Pulled her aside. Asked her why. She told him everything. It's a moment that he never forgot. When you actually listen to your servers, managers, and guests, magic happens. At Cotton Patch Café, Brandon did the unthinkable - lowered prices, increased portions and increased wages! People thought he was nuts! Guess what? It worked, driving 12x EBITDA! Ironically, the best ideas are often not found in the boardroom. They're found at the front line!
People in this episode
Host: Lisa W. Miller
Guest: Brandon Coleman III
Topics covered
- leadership
- business strategy
- employee engagement
- profit growth
- customer service
Keywords
- EBITDA
- leadership style
- price reduction
- wage increase
- business success
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Cotton Patch Café
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