For any business to thrive, strong leadership and a well-structured management team are essential. A company’s success depends not only on the vision of its owner but also on the ability of its leadership team to work together, communicate openly, and execute decisions—even when opinions differ. This is something Ben Haugh, owner of All Nation Restoration, has come to understand deeply as he has navigated the challenges of leadership within his company.
As a business owner, it’s tempting to want to do everything yourself. After all, no one understands your company’s vision better than you. However, true growth happens when an owner builds a team they can rely on—mentoring them, working with them, and trusting them to execute plans even when they may not fully agree. This process is far from easy; it requires time, trust, and, most importantly, continuous communication.
Ben has encountered moments when his management team has said, “I don’t understand,” and instead of walking away in frustration, he makes it a priority to explain. He recognizes that leadership is not just about giving orders—it’s about ensuring that everyone is aligned and understands the reasoning behind decisions. Equally important, he values the insights and perspectives his team brings to the table, as they provide crucial information that helps him make the best possible choices.
“I see it like going to court,” Ben explains. “A judge can only make the best decision if the evidence presented is straightforward, honest, and clear. That’s how I operate. Once I have all the information, I can move forward with confidence.” However, he acknowledges a common challenge in leadership—sometimes, key information is withheld, not out of malice, but because team members might not see its importance or may fear how the owner will react.
“Of course, this has happened,” Ben admits. “And it’s really hard to deal with. Trust is everything. Without it, it feels like walking through a dark tunnel—when you reach a fork in the road, you have no idea which path offers safety.”
To overcome this challenge, Ben emphasizes fostering an environment where honesty is encouraged, even when the truth is difficult. He is committed to ensuring his team knows that mistakes are acceptable as long as they are communicated. He believes that transparency leads to better decision-making and a stronger company culture.
At the end of the day, leadership is a learning process, and Ben understands that his role is to steer the company in the right direction. “Ultimately, solving these things is up to me,” he says. “And I make sure my team knows that’s okay—I just need to know what’s going on.”
Through open communication, trust, and a commitment to continuous learning, Ben Haugh has created a management culture that not only supports business growth but also strengthens the foundation of his company. Owners who embrace this mindset will find themselves leading with confidence, even in times of stress, knowing they have a team that stands beside them every step of the way.
“I am really thankful for my core team,” Ben adds. “They are some of the most trustworthy, hardworking people I know, and I’m glad it took time to not only find them but to foster this relationship within the business… because without them, All Nation Restoration would not be where it is today.”
“Stay Driven, Stay Focused and Stay in Business” – Ben Haugh
