

Intangible Greatness
Apr 6, 2024
James Rhee, former CEO of Ashley Stewart, professor, and author of 'Red Helicopter,' dives into the art of business resilience. He shares the unexpected turnaround of Ashley Stewart, emphasizing the balance between kindness and strategic growth. Rhee redefines accounting concepts, suggesting that liabilities can transform into assets through solid community relationships. He also explores the importance of aligning personal values with corporate culture, advocating for kindness and innovative compensation as keys to empowering employees and driving business success.
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Red Helicopter Story
- James Rhee's "red helicopter" symbolizes truth and wisdom, stemming from a childhood story.
- He received a toy red helicopter after sharing lunch with a classmate, highlighting unexpected kindness.
An Unlikely CEO
- James Rhee, a Korean-American man with a private equity background, became the CEO of Ashley Stewart.
- This plus-size women's retailer, primarily serving Black women, was an unlikely fit for Rhee.
Intangible Greatness
- Rhee recognized the strong, intangible relationships among Ashley Stewart's customers.
- These relationships, built on community and shared experiences, were a valuable asset he saw as an investor.