The Hot Dog Stand Effect

The 7th Law of UnbreakableOS

Don't forget to take the UnbreakableIndex™ test to discover your business endurance.

Most business owners want their team to act like owners —but wait for them to ask for raises, titles, or clarity. That’s not leadership. That’s avoidance dressed up as delegation.

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The Hot Dog Stand Effect flips the script:

You go first. You invest first. You believe in people before they believe in themselves.

Why do I call it that?

A few years ago, after helping grow a company nearly 400% in net profits in just over 4 years, I sat down with Tom — my right hand, my best friend, my brother in this work. I was ready to pitch him on the next chapter.

Before I even opened my mouth, he said:

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“Just tell me where we’re going. If it’s a hot dog stand, I’m in.”

He didn’t care about the job title. Or the business idea. Or the upside. He trusted me.

That kind of trust doesn’t show up because you’re charismatic or strategic. It shows up because you’ve already shown up for them.

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Here’s the truth:

Gallup reports only 3 in 10 employees strongly agree someone at work encourages their development.

Those who don’t feel seen are 2x more likely to leave in the next year.

They’re not waiting for a bigger paycheck. They’re waiting to be led with intention.

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That’s where a principle from Japan comes in — one I’ve adopted in leadership:

In Japanese culture, omotenashi is the quiet art of anticipating needs before they’re spoken —a kind of radical hospitality rooted in honor, not transaction. It’s not about providing service. It’s about preparing the moment.

You don’t wait to be asked.
You don’t wait until it’s deserved.
You serve because it’s who you are.

Omotenashi is what makes a guest feel deeply valued without knowing why. It’s powerful.

In leadership, omotenashi sounds like:

• “You looked tired last week — how are you really doing?”
• “I noticed you crushed that call. I told the team.”
• “I know you’re capable of more. Let’s talk next steps.”

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It’s not hand-holding. It’s sacrificial attentiveness. The kind that builds fierce loyalty.

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Tactical Rhythm: Weekly 1:1 Check-Ins

Every manager. Every direct report. Every week. Ask these 3 questions:

1. What are you proud of right now?
2. Where do you have an opportunity to grow?
3. What can I do to better serve you?

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This isn’t HR. It’s shepherding. It’s how you earn the kind of trust that follows you into hard things.

You don’t earn the right to lead by talking. You earn it by going first.

That’s The Hot Dog Stand Effect.

And when it’s real —your team won’t just follow you. They’ll carry the mission like it’s theirs.