Branding Matters How To Become a Better Leader - Jake Himelstein
Nov 21, 2025
Jake Himelstein, President of BAMKO, boasts over 20 years in finance and operations, transforming the company with a 300% revenue growth and a vibrant culture. He discusses his unique practice of meeting every new hire for coffee to foster connections and his monthly AMAs that enhance transparency. Jake emphasizes the importance of a people-first culture that tolerates failure and nurtures future leaders. He also shares crucial leadership skills like empathy and problem-solving, and reflects on the value of focusing on strategy over the minutiae.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
President Coffee For New Hires
- Jake holds monthly coffee sessions with every new hire to build personal connections across a remote, global team.
- He designed the program to learn about employees and share his vision because he missed knowing everyone as the company scaled.
Back Out Of The Weeds
- Hire an executive coach and intentionally step out of the weeds to think strategically as you move into broader leadership roles.
- Trust capable direct reports and give them rope to fail so they can grow while you stay connected through high-level touchpoints.
Hold Regular AMAs
- Run regular Ask Me Anything sessions so employees can ask candid questions and hear leadership's view on successes and struggles.
- Use the questions to gauge employee mindset and provide a transparent roadmap for what's next.