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Paul Alex
I used to spend way too much
Podcast Co-host
time dealing with payroll forms and admin work that honestly pulled me away from actually growing the business. It got repetitive, it got boring, and
Paul Alex
it made me think there had to
Podcast Co-host
be a simpler way to do this. That's when I switched to Gusto. Gusto is an online payroll and benefits software built for small businesses. It's an all in one remote, friendly and incredibly easy to use so you can pay, hire onboard and support your team from anywhere. Simple direct deposits I automatic payroll tax filing, health benefits, commuter benefits, workers comp 401k, you name it. Gusto made it simple and has options for nearly every budget. Unlimited payroll runs for one monthly price. No hidden fees, no surprises. Save time with automated tools built right in. Get direct access to certified HR experts to help support you through any tough HR situation. It's quick and simple to switch to Gusto. Just transfer your existing data to get up running fast. Plus don't pay a cent until you run your first payroll. Try Gusto today at gusto.com levelup and get three months free when you run your first payroll. That's three months of free payroll at gusto.com levelup one more time. Gusto.com forward/levelup.
Paul Alex
Welcome to the Levelup Podcast. I'm your host, Paul Alex. I went from being a cop to an eight figure entrepreneur that helps average people like you and me make money every single day. I created this podcast to help you get motivated and to crush your goals. Let's win together. Remember, I have your six. Get ready to level up right now. What's up everyone? Welcome back to the Level up podcast. I'm Paul Alex and today we're diving into the one thing you absolutely need to reach your ultimate goal. A loyal, unbreakable crew. Because let's be real. If you surround yourself with mercenaries who only care about the paycheck, they'll jump ship at the first sign of a storm. And if you're alone in rough waters, you're going down. Let's break down how to attract true believers without overpaying for talent. First, understand that skills can be taught, but loyalty has to be earned. Too many people think hiring the most expensive resume guarantees success. It doesn't if you're bringing on people who don't believe in your vision. You, you are just renting their time. Whether it's an assistant, a co founder or a sales rep, culture only works if there is shared belief. If they don't care about the mission, you kill the morale. Second, protect the ship at all costs. People don't thrive in a toxic environment, they thrive where they feel secure and valued. So instead of just managing numbers, manage the energy in the room. Make it clear that bad attitudes get thrown overboard no matter how much money they bring in. Lastly, lead from the front lines. When your crew sees you taking the hardest hits and sweeping the floors right next to them, they will follow you anywhere. Shared struggles, clear communication and mutual respect create an unstoppable alliance. When you protect them, they protect the business. Bottom line, you can't conquer massive goals with a fractured team. Find your core crew, cast the vision and let the loyalty build the empire. Because when you do, you'll sail further than ever. Thanks for tuning in to the Level up podcast. I'm Paul Alex reminding you your team is your greatest treasure. Protect the culture, lead the charge, and as always, keep leveling up. Thanks for listening up to the Level up podcast.
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If you enjoyed today's episode, make sure to share with a family, friend and
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everyone you know who's ready to level up. Leave a five star review on Spotify,
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Apple Podcasts and wherever you tune in.
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It really helps spreading the word.
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And don't forget to check out officialpaulalex.com
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for more episodes and resources to kickstart your journey. Let's level up together.
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Episode: Building Your Core Crew - Loyalty and Team Culture
Host: Paul Alex Espinoza
Date: March 12, 2026
In this episode of The Level Up Podcast, Paul Alex dives deep into what it takes to create a loyal, cohesive, and unstoppable team culture inside your business. Drawing from his own journey as an ex-detective turned eight-figure entrepreneur, Paul shares practical wisdom and unfiltered advice on why team loyalty matters more than raw talent, how to attract the right people, and how to protect your company culture at all costs. This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone serious about building a sustainable business, not just short-term profits.
Skills Can Be Taught, But Loyalty Must Be Earned
Don’t Overpay for Talent That Lacks Vision
Shared Belief & Mission Over Transactional Relationships
Managing Energy, Not Just Numbers
Lead By Example
Protect Your People, They’ll Protect the Business
On team loyalty:
“Skills can be taught, but loyalty has to be earned.” (Paul Alex, 01:50)
On toxic environments:
“People don’t thrive in a toxic environment, they thrive where they feel secure and valued.” (Paul Alex, 02:12)
On leadership:
“Lead from the front lines. When your crew sees you taking the hardest hits and sweeping the floors right next to them, they will follow you anywhere.” (Paul Alex, 02:27)
On building the empire:
“Find your core crew, cast the vision and let the loyalty build the empire.” (Paul Alex, 02:44)
Paul Alex’s core message is clear: Your crew defines your business’ ceiling. Hire mission-driven people, live the values you preach, protect the culture fiercely, and your team will not just survive storms, but sail farther than you imagined. For entrepreneurs at every stage, this is a candid, motivating reminder to prioritize people over profit—and to never compromise on team loyalty.
For more insights, resources, and future episodes:
Visit officialpaulalex.com or follow Paul on Instagram @PaulAlex.