The WarPlan Podcast: From 25 Cents To Building A Multi-Million-Dollar Company with Howard Partridge

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The WarPlan Podcast, host Myron Golden engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Howard Partridge, a seasoned business coach trained by the legendary Zig Ziglar. Released on October 21, 2024, this episode delves into Howard's remarkable journey from humble beginnings to establishing a multi-million-dollar company, emphasizing the crucial interplay between mindset, faith, and strategic business practices.

Guest Background: Howard Partridge’s Journey

Howard Partridge opens up about his challenging upbringing in Mobile, Alabama, where he grew up on welfare in a cramped 600-square-foot shack with seven siblings. [04:10] He recounts his rebellious teenage years, culminating in a pivotal moment when he left home with literally 25 cents—a stark reminder of his impoverished start ([04:58]).

Despite these hardships, Howard's entrepreneurial spirit shone through early on. Leveraging the $3,000 wedding gift received in cash— a common Italian tradition [06:23]—he launched his first business out of his car trunk. Although his wife was initially unhappy with this risky move, it laid the foundation for what would become the most respected service company in Houston over the next 26 years ([07:46]).

Building a Business with Mentorship and Faith

A significant turning point in Howard’s career was his encounter with Zig Ziglar, a mentorship that profoundly influenced his approach to business and life. [08:49] Howard shares, “You can have everything in life you want if you'll just help enough other people get what it is that they want” ([12:33]). This philosophy not only guided his business strategies but also intertwined with his personal faith journey.

At age 27, Howard experienced a life-altering spiritual awakening that freed him from a 12-year marijuana addiction. [15:30] He describes this moment as a miraculous deliverance, similar to Myron's own experience overcoming alcoholism ([18:00]).

Key Concepts Discussed

1. Identity as the Foundation for Success

   Howard emphasizes that identity is paramount in achieving business success. “It starts with identity, 100%,” he asserts ([24:12]). He explains that understanding who you are and aligning your business goals with your life purpose is essential for sustained growth and fulfillment.

2. Failure to Implement (FTI)

   Drawing from his book FTI: Failure to Implement, Howard identifies the primary barrier to success: people not executing their plans. “The number one reason that people don't reach their biggest dreams and goals… is not because people don't know what to do. It's not because they don't know how to do it. It's just because they don't do it” ([24:43]). He advocates for deliberate action and perseverance, even in the face of setbacks.

3. The Power of Inspiration Over Motivation

   Howard differentiates between motivation (external) and inspiration (internal). “[I]nspiration is when a fire starts kindling on the inside and the headlights go on” ([28:59]). He argues that true inspiration drives deeper, more sustainable change compared to fleeting motivation driven by external factors.

4. Organization and Training

   Effective organization is highlighted as a key to reducing stress and increasing productivity. Howard advises, “If you can organize your day and prioritize and then, of course, delegate and things like that, the more that you can get done with the time that you have” ([33:14]).

   Additionally, he underscores the importance of comprehensive training in five critical areas: leadership, marketing, sales, service operations, and finance ([34:12]). This multifaceted training cultivates confidence and prepares business owners to handle various challenges adeptly.

5. Community and Coaching

   Howard advocates for the significance of community and coaching in business development. “When you have a group that you belong to, I wrote a book called The Power of Community. Every human being has a longing for belonging” ([37:56]). He believes that being part of a supportive community fosters accountability, encouragement, and continuous growth.

Insights on Business Coaching

Howard shares profound insights from his extensive experience coaching over 100 different industries across 20 countries. He explains that successful business transformation begins with a clear identity and is fueled by a strong internal vision. “[...] your life goals will determine the kind of business that you need to have” ([43:08]).

Moreover, he stresses the importance of surrounding oneself with successful individuals to gain inspiration and actionable ideas. “The reason we don't have desire is because we don't have a vision” ([26:48]). By fostering a visionary mindset, business owners can cultivate the burning desire necessary for achieving their goals.

Faith and Business Integration

A recurring theme in Howard’s narrative is the integration of faith into business practices. His book, Monday Morning Christian: How Living Out Your Faith in Business Leads to Phenomenal Success, encapsulates this blend. He shares how his faith not only provided personal salvation but also became a cornerstone of his business philosophy, enabling him to use his company as a platform for ministry and broader societal impact ([21:20]).

Concluding Thoughts: Transformation and Legacy

Towards the end of the episode, Howard reflects on how his success has transformed him. While acknowledging that his prosperity has afforded him certain comforts, he remains deeply committed to helping others achieve their own success. “[...] I really do what I do today for my team so they can reach their goals. And for my clients, I really don't do it for myself anymore” ([46:11]).

He closes with an inspiring message about recognizing one’s inherent worth and potential, encapsulating his belief that everyone is a “phenomenal product” created for a purpose ([53:03]). Howard encourages listeners to embrace their unique strengths and leverage them to build successful, meaningful businesses.

Notable Quotes

• Myron Golden [00:07]: "Your business is a mental war. Your success is a mental war. And making money is a game. And the game of money starts in your mind."

• Howard Partridge [12:33]: "You can have everything in life you want if you'll just help enough other people get what it is that they want."

• Howard Partridge [24:12]: "It starts with identity, 100%."

• Howard Partridge [26:48]: "The reason we don't have desire is because we don't have a vision."

• Howard Partridge [37:56]: "Every human being has a longing for belonging."

• Howard Partridge [53:03]: "You are phenomenal because you're made in the image of God."

Conclusion

This episode of The WarPlan Podcast offers invaluable lessons on the symbiotic relationship between personal identity, faith, and strategic business planning. Howard Partridge’s story exemplifies how overcoming personal struggles and embracing a purposeful mindset can propel one to extraordinary business success. Listeners are left with actionable insights on fostering inspiration, maintaining organization, seeking continuous training, and building supportive communities—all essential components for transforming their businesses and lives.

For more resources and to learn from Howard's extensive repertoire of books and training programs, visit HowardPartridge.com.