Weaving Dreams: The Joy of Work, The Love of Life

What inspired you to write this book?
I have been given so many wonderful, unique opportunities in my life to travel and learn and meet people. But one of the things dearest to me is the relationships I’ve built along the way, most of them somehow connected to our company and its 38-year history. I so treasure the impact that these relationships have had on me collectively, that when significant people in my life began to prompt me to tell my story in book form, I really listened. I realized that if they felt I could perhaps encourage or inspire someone else’s journey—or if I had something interesting and valuable to contribute to the world—then perhaps it was time to share my thoughts, feelings, and memories on paper.

What are some of the important lessons readers will get from this book?
One of the things I worked really hard on while compiling ideas for this book was the notion of ensuring a take-away for the reader. I want anyone who picks up Weaving Dreams to have something to reflect on, to wonder about, and to consider honestly. So although this isn’t a “self-help” book, I’d like to think that readers will indeed draw important lessons from its pages, beginning with the idea that we truly are all more similar than we are dissimilar; we truly do have more in common than we may think—globally speaking. I also hope that readers will gain a renewed sense of belief in themselves and in the power of their dreams, and know that they are not alone in trying to maintain balance and integrity in our hectic world. Most of all, that they will be reminded that we do have much for which to be grateful.

How would you describe your leadership approach as CEO of Longaberger?
I would describe my leadership approach as being relational and participatory. I love to invite new members of our Longaberger Family into a meeting or to join a conference call to give them the opportunity to learn and gain experience. I enjoy being involved and engaged in this company while still letting people do their job and “go for it” on their own. I view myself as a compassionate leader, because although there are times when tough decisions may not seem compassionate, in my heart, I’m always thinking about how our decisions—my decisions—will affect others. That’s not always easy, it stirs unwelcome angst and emotional pain I hold inside me, but it’s who I am.

What has been your biggest accomplishment as CEO of Longaberger?
I feel incredibly privileged to have continued this journey as CEO through challenging times over decades; we are blessed to continue to be a force in the direct sales world and are proud of the quality of our products and the American craftsmanship of our baskets. Any personal satisfaction I feel about those things is only part of what I deem to be important. In simple, personal truth, it is the joy that comes with being part of a company that has so positively affected so many individuals and their families. Literally tons of thousands of consultants, basket makers and staff members look to The Longaberger Company and credit it with their success; with sustaining their families, with giving them purpose and a reason to dream, being a part of a community – an extended family. That is really something. And it is that thing that gives me gratitude and allows me to feel great professional accomplishment and personal satisfaction in my company.