In this episode of "Zero to 5000," host Drew McClure engages in a captivating conversation with Josh Watts, co-founder of MedTrust. Founded in 2012, MedTrust is the largest private ambulance and mobile healthcare provider based in South Carolina, with over 500 employees across multiple states. Josh shares his unique journey from entering an unfamiliar industry to leading a rapidly growing company. He discusses strategic growth, legislative initiatives, workforce development, and the importance of organizational culture. Josh also delves into how MedTrust navigated significant challenges, including his co-founder’s illness and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, while maintaining a strong commitment to caring for people.

Key Takeaways

• Unfamiliar Beginnings: Josh’s entry into the ambulance and mobile healthcare industry without prior experience brought fresh perspectives and innovative solutions.
• Adapting to Challenges: MedTrust faced significant trials, including the illness of Josh’s co-founder, yet adapted and continued to grow. Importance of Core Values: Building a resilient organizational culture centered around core values is crucial for long-term success.
• Focus on People: Investing in workforce development and caring for employees directly impacts customer satisfaction and business growth. Strategic Vision: Effective leadership involves balancing immediate operational needs with long-term strategic planning and legislative engagement.

Notable Quotes

• "You don't have the option to fail; that's a real convenient way to not fail."
• "Finding the right people is crucial. We sell people, not widgets." - "Being smart in business is about putting the time in to become an expert."
• "Caring for people helps everyone – it lowers retention, increases engagement, and improves customer experiences."
• "I'm a big believer that you can't just have one mentor; you should have mentors for different aspects of your life."