Chris Cunningham, owner of a True-Value hardware store in Tampa and a commercial real estate investor, started his career in lending and financial services. But he soon learned he wanted to do his own thing, and has spent the past 15 years building and buying complementary businesses. On this episode Chris and Business Observer Managing Editor Mark Gordon talk about his mentors and how he learned about work ethic and how to treat people. And listen for his secrets on how to outdo the competition.

3 Takeaways:

1. (10:20) Don’t put yourself in a bucket
2. (13:15) AQ is the most important thing for business owners and leaders (adversity quotient)
3. (17:15) The bigger the problem you can solve, the more you will get paid

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Chris Cunningham, owner, True Value America Store & Dry 24 Water Restoration

(03:55) Chris’ Career

(05:30) Chris’ inspiration to become an entrepreneur

(06:35) Tell us about True Value America and Dry 24 Water Restoration

(10:00) Keys to being a successful entrepreneur

(12:00) Retail deserts and getting involved in the community

(12:55) What do you look for in good leaders?

(14:00) How do you respond to setbacks?

(17:45) What did you learn from your grandparents?

(20:00) What is coming up in 2025?

(21:55) Advice for young entrepreneurs

Join us every week as we interview business leaders to learn what makes them great, what they look for in growing leaders, and much more.

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