Next Level Pros Podcast Episode #153: How Craigslist Changed My Life // Vision is Your Best Recruiting Tool

Release Date: June 26, 2025

In Episode #153 of Next Level Pros, host Chris Lee delves into the transformative journey of Levi [Last Name], whose life took a pivotal turn after responding to a Craigslist ad. This episode underscores the paramount importance of a compelling vision and mission in attracting and retaining top-tier talent. Below is a comprehensive summary capturing the essence of their conversation.

1. The Power of a Clear Vision in Talent Retention

Levi begins by highlighting a critical factor in organizational success: the clarity and magnitude of a company's vision. He posits that employees are more likely to stay with or join a company not because of higher pay but because the company's vision resonates more profoundly with their personal aspirations.

"You're losing top level talent because your mission isn't clear. The reason people leave your organization or not join your organization isn't because they have a better paying opportunity. It's because your vision isn't bigger than theirs."
[00:00] Levi

Levi emphasizes that a compelling vision acts as a magnet, drawing like-minded individuals who are passionate about contributing to something larger than themselves.

2. Joining the Startup: A Craigslist Connection

Levi recounts his personal struggles in 2017 when he relocated to Detroit Tri-Cities, Washington, burdened by financial instability and homelessness. Desperate for a fresh start, he navigated through various jobs, ultimately landing in the unpleasant environment of used car sales. His turning point came when he scrolled through Craigslist, discovering an ambiguous ad seeking help for a startup.

"I started scrolling through craigslist. I eventually stumbled upon a Craigslist ad that was posted that said startup company need help now call me."
[Transcript Excerpt]

Intrigued by the opportunity, Levi applied and secured an interview with Chris Lee, setting the stage for a life-changing decision.

3. Navigating the Early Challenges

The interview process was unconventional. Levi arrived at Chris Lee's residence dressed formally in a velvet suit, starkly contrasting with the casual attire of the existing team members. This initial impression underscored the unique culture and ambitious goals of the startup.

"I realized was in jeans, sweatpants and a hoodie. I sit down, I go, no, sir, I didn't know it was casual."
[00:XX] Levi

Despite feeling out of place, Levi was captivated by Chris's audacious vision of transforming their modest solar company into the nation's largest installer within five years.

"This is a solar company. We are going to be the largest solar installer in the entire nation. In five years, we'll be doing a hundred million dollars in revenue and we'll have over a thousand employees nationwide."
[00:XX] Chris Lee

4. The Impact of a Strong Mission Statement

Levi attributes much of his commitment to the company’s success to the clear and inspiring mission statement: "Building a brighter future for our people." This mission was not only a beacon for external stakeholders but also a foundational element for internal culture.

"We need to define your mission statement for both your internal employees and your customers and your community. What is it that your company stands for?"
[00:XX] Levi

He believes that a strong mission statement fosters loyalty and ensures that employees are invested in the company's long-term goals beyond immediate financial incentives.

5. Building Culture and Strategic Growth

As the company grew, Levi experienced multiple role changes, reflecting the dynamic nature of startups. Despite challenges, including a demotion, the unwavering belief in the company's mission kept him aligned and motivated.

"You can make an extra $3 an hour. One of them was a retail manager for a thrift store. The other was working in food... but I saw a vision that was unbelievably clear."
[00:XX] Levi

Eventually, Levi was entrusted with pivotal roles in culture and marketing, reinforcing the company's commitment to its mission and strategic vision.

6. Emphasizing Long-Term Planning

A recurring theme in the discussion is the significance of a five-year roadmap. Levi advises entrepreneurs to not only plan strategically but also to ensure that their daily actions and company habits align with their long-term objectives.

"Build a five Year roadmap for yourself and for your company... where you want to be in five years? Where does this company need to be in five years?"
[00:XX] Levi

He cautions against short-term thinking, stressing that meaningful accomplishments often exceed one-year expectations when approached with a long-term perspective.

7. Hiring for Cultural Fit and Vision Alignment

Levi challenges business leaders to prioritize cultural fit and alignment with the company's vision over mere qualifications. He argues that employees who believe in the company's mission are more likely to contribute passionately and remain committed.

"When you guys are interviewing potential employees or partners into your company, you need to have this so that way you can paint a vision bigger than theirs. That's how we were able to recruit in so much top level talent and they were willing to take a pay cut to come work with us because they believed in the vision."
[00:XX] Levi

This approach, according to Levi, cultivates a resilient and dedicated workforce that drives sustained organizational success.

8. Lessons Learned and Final Thoughts

Levi concludes by reiterating the essence of aligning company mission with employee values. He shares that despite multiple role changes, his commitment to the company's vision ensured his continued growth and satisfaction within the organization.

"We knew that whatever it is that we could pivot because our mission was still the same. Culture will eat strategy for breakfast."
[00:XX] Levi

His journey from a struggling entrepreneur to a key player in a successful solar company exemplifies the transformative power of a clear, compelling vision and a strong organizational culture.

Key Takeaways

• Clear Vision Retains Talent: A compelling and larger-than-life vision attracts and retains employees who are passionate and dedicated.

• Mission Statement Matters: A well-defined mission statement serves as the foundation for company culture and strategic alignment.

• Long-Term Planning: Developing a five-year roadmap ensures that daily actions are aligned with long-term goals.

• Cultural Fit Over Qualifications: Prioritizing cultural alignment in hiring leads to a more cohesive and motivated workforce.

• Adaptability and Growth: Embracing role changes and adapting within the company can lead to personal and organizational growth.

Levi's story is a testament to the impact of visionary leadership and the importance of building a mission-driven organization. By fostering a culture that aligns with a clear and ambitious vision, companies can navigate challenges, inspire their teams, and achieve remarkable success.