We had the good fortune of connecting with Lance Redmon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lance, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Wow, that’s a loaded question if I’ve ever heard one! My backstory is that out of college I started serving in my church as a youth minister. A few years later, I left with another staff member to start a church plant…my first experience starting something from scratch. After about 8 years at that church, I transitioned from being in full-time vocational ministry to the market place. I stepped into a sales role at a new senior living and quickly transitioned into a management role in a local building and then into a regional management role. Each of those experiences influenced the decision. I was able to see the impact that the culture of an organization played in its own success and well-being. It was obvious that the leader was able to affect the culture in ways that were either detrimental or essential to the company. As the time for my next transition grew closer, I had learned many lessons and seen good and bad leadership at all levels in a company. Besides the obvious things that one would look for in an acquisition, like profitability and a track record of success, I was looking for a great team that I could join. I was looking for an opportunity that was not a “Life-Sucker.” Over the years, I have observed what happens when someones job consumes them. It ends up sucking the life out of them and they have nothing left to give when their day is done. I was looking for an opportunity to where we could create a culture that made an impact on the lives of our employees. I believe that I found that. We are definitely not perfect, but we are working towards excellence every day.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Specialized Building Systems distributes commercial building materials to construction companies in Texas. When I think of our team, we are like a special forces unit in the military. We have a unique set of skills that allows us to serve our customers across several industries and market segments. We simply follow the guidance of Matthew 7:12 and treat others how we would want to be treated. One of our unique values is “Pay the Rent.” It comes from the Rent Axiom by Rory Vaden. It states that “Success is never owned. it is only rented –and the rent is due everyday.” We recognized if we want to be successful and have our customers continue to choose us to solve their problems, we have to pay the rent today. Yesterday’s rent is not good enough. If we start to rely on the rent we paid last week or last year…we will get evicted and no longer be able to serve our customers. We have to choose to be great in every interaction we have. One of the lessons I continue to learn is a simple one. Matthew 7:12 tells us ” So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them.” The Golden rule may sound like a simple lesson that is taught to children, but its still applicable in business. I am amazed at how many people forget this or think “it’s just business!” We still have to hold true to our word…even when it might bring us pain. Whether we are dealing with team members, family, vendors, or customers, we are still dealing with people and should treat them how we would want them to treat us.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I like to be outdoors so if they are here for a week, we are probably going to spend some time out on the water or at the ranch. But if we have a night, I’m probably taking them out to Anthonie’s Market Grill in Simonton. The atmosphere is amazing. It is inviting and always creates good conversation.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This answer is easy. It would have to be my family. As a kid my parents always supported me. They set the example of honoring God with their lives and working hard. Whether it was at school or on the football field, they did whatever I needed for me to be successful. As an adult, It would hands down be my wife, Bradi. Since we graduated high School, she has been by my side every step of the way, even when it seems I was taking a step backwards.

Website: www.sbs-frp.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/specialized-building-systems

Image Credits
My Sweet Melissa Photography

Nominate someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.