Success Starts with Being True to Yourself
What does success really look like? For many, it's tied to money, titles, or ticking off a checklist. But for others, like Richard Blank, success is about alignment—choosing a life that honors your values, your purpose, and your voice.
In this episode of Rosabel Unscripted, we explore what it means to step off the beaten path and redefine success through presence, empathy, and legacy. Richard’s story takes us from the classrooms of Philadelphia to the jungles of Costa Rica, where he built a multimillion-dollar call center with a culture unlike any other.
Whether you're a creative entrepreneur, a caregiver, or simply someone looking for direction, this conversation is packed with insights and reminders to stay true to yourself—even when it’s hard.
Success Means Defining Your Own Path
At 27, Richard made the bold decision to move to Costa Rica. He didn’t go for a vacation—he went to build something from scratch. No backup plan. No safety net. Just a belief in his ability to create something meaningful.
“I needed that self-sacrifice in order to be reborn,” he said. “It was about painting my own picture.”
Too often, we inherit someone else’s idea of success—family expectations, social norms, career tracks. But Richard reminds us: you can change direction at any moment. You can choose a new story.
Soft Skills Are a Power Move for Success
In a world obsessed with performance metrics, Richard has built a business around the power of emotional intelligence. His team is trained in interpersonal communication, phonetic micro-expression reading, and confidence-building strategies that go far beyond the script.
He encourages agents to replace “I’m sorry” with “For my clarification…” and to always ask questions that humanize the person on the other end of the line. These simple techniques reduce tension, lower ego, and increase rapport—essential ingredients for any kind of achievement.
This approach echoes ideas from Harvard Business Review (2025), emphasizing emotional resilience and leadership sustainability in today’s fast-paced world.
Letting Go of Shame to Move Forward
Richard was expelled from private school at 13. For years, that experience haunted him—until he realized it was part of what shaped his purpose. Today, he uses that story as a teaching tool and a source of compassion for others who feel behind.
He now sponsors a second-language scholarship at his high school, turning a moment of pain into a lifelong impact. That’s not just recovery—it’s redirection.
Culture Counts—In Business and Life
Richard’s office is filled with pinball machines, jukeboxes, and laughter. That’s not a gimmick—it’s part of a leadership strategy that values joy and creativity.
Instead of cubicles and quotas, his team works in a space designed to encourage play and connection. It’s not about being “soft”—it’s about sustainability. When people enjoy where they work, they stay longer, perform better, and grow together.
“We don’t just hire people who can sell. We hire people who want to be part of something.”
This mirrors advice from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which highlights the importance of putting employees and culture first for small business growth in 2025.
Small Acts, Big Impact
Rosabel shared how asking “How are you doing?” during a medical appointment can shift everything. Richard sees the same effect in customer service. Connection is powerful—whether in a hospital, a sales call, or a chance meeting in the hallway.
These small moments may seem insignificant, but they build trust, soften pain, and ripple outward in ways we can’t always see. That’s leadership. That’s real success.
Rooting Success in Legacy
From arts advocacy to scholarships, Richard’s impact goes far beyond business. He’s collaborated with INXS bassist Garry Gary Beers on a song called “Shine Like the Sun,” and even produced a breakdance video at his call center featuring two of his own employees.
To Richard, success is about what you leave behind—stories, scholarships, and a culture where others can thrive.
Watch the Shine Like the Sun music video here.
New: Bringing Success Into Your Daily Life
So how do you apply these lessons in your own world?
- Start with presence. Ask someone how they really are today.
- Replace self-criticism with curiosity. What did you learn from your latest misstep?
- Add beauty to your space—whether it’s a pinball machine or a flower on your desk.
- Mentor someone who’s just getting started. Even a few encouraging words can change a life.
- Follow timely leadership advice like DILAN Consulting’s 2025 emotional intelligence guide.
Success doesn’t have to be flashy. Sometimes, it’s just being consistent, kind, and willing to keep going. Every step counts.
Want More Inspiration?
visit: rosabelzohfeld.com/articles
Entrepreneur: Success in 2025 — Trends & Strategies
Final Thoughts: Success is Showing Up as You
Ultimately, success is not a formula—it’s a feeling. It’s authenticity. It’s showing up fully, even when you're scared.
So take a moment today to define what success means for you. Not what you've been told, but what feels true in your bones.
Because when you walk your path, you light the way for others.
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