Creating business legacy through intact core values with RT Custer, Vortic Watch Company
In a recent episode of "Master Delegator," host Kristy Yoder welcomed RT Custer, the co-founder of Vortic Watch Company, to delve into the foundational pillars of building a lasting business legacy. Through anecdotal reflections and strategic insights,
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RT Custer shares how core values, entrepreneurial upbringing, and the pursuit of the American Dream shape his approach to business and life.
The Fusion of Core Values and Business Legacy
This poignant analogy resonates deeply with RT's upbringing on a Christmas tree farm, which gave him a distinctive perspective on patience, effort, and long-term vision. Just like nurturing trees, creating a business legacy demands a commitment to core values, ensuring a sustainable and authentic impact over time.
Building a Legacy through Integrity, Empathy, and Respect
RT's places a significant emphasis on integrity, empathy, and respect in his business dealings. He believes these elements are paramount in forging robust relationships and fostering a positive company culture. This trio of values forms the bedrock of trust, which is indispensable in any entrepreneurial endeavor.
The American Dream: Wealth and Freedom
For many, the American Dream symbolizes both financial success and personal freedom. RT, through Vortic Watch Company, strives to manifest this ideal. He differentiates wealth and freedom as twin aspirations, encapsulating the material successes alongside the liberty to lead a fulfilling life.
Kristy concurs with Arty on creating a legacy through core values and shares her own narrative of achieving the American Dream. Moving to the U.S. and thriving as an entrepreneur, she attributes much of her success to effective delegation and a reliable team. Kristy enthusiastically speaks about a reflective retreat where she affirmed achieving her dreams, highlighting happiness and gratitude for her journey and team’s support.
Diverse Perspectives on the American Dream
RT’s narrative also offers a nuanced view of the American Dream. Acknowledging his privileged background, RT reflects on growing up in an entrepreneurial family and the financial support that facilitated his education and career. This early advantage did not go unnoted, prompting him to focus on making the most of his opportunities and fearing unfulfilled potential. He shares:
It's a privilege and a responsibility, I fear the 'what ifs' of not realizing big ideas."
This notion of responsibility dovetails with Kristy's immigrant experience, highlighting contrasting paths to the same goal. RT’s route benefits from generational support and privilege, while Kristy’s path underscores resilience and seizing opportunities in a new environment.
The Art of Delegation
A significant part of the conversation revolved around the importance of effective delegation. RT highlighted the necessity of building reliable systems and trusting team members to execute tasks without constant oversight. Although letting go of control is challenging, he stresses:
"If systems fail, revisit and improve them continuously."
Kristy agreed with RT, noting potential biases managers might harbor and the control issues that can arise. Both recognize that empowering teams and creating systems not only enhances efficiency but also fosters a sense of ownership and accountability amongst team members.
Vortic Watch Company's Unique Proposition
RT’s entrepreneurial journey took a defining turn when he co-founded Vortic Watch Company in 2014. Vortic capitalizes on restoring antique American pocket watches into high-end wristwatches, creating a unique niche that marries history with craftsmanship. Despite the substantial price tags ranging from $3,000 to $10,000, Vortic frequently experiences demand outstripping supply, a testament to their product’s unique value proposition.
Flexible Work Culture and the Four-Day Workweek
A standout element in the discussion was Vortic’s innovative work culture. RT has implemented a four-day workweek, primarily to offer employees better work-life balance and reflect Colorado’s lifestyle values. This flexibility not only attracts talent but also enhances machine efficiency at the manufacturing level. However, RT acknowledges that this flexible schedule does not uniformly apply to all roles, especially those demanding consistent customer interaction.
Continuous Problem-Solving and Entrepreneurial Drive
The entrepreneurial journey is filled with continuous challenges and problem-solving. RT talks about the constant need to address issues head-on and how his team’s collective efforts contribute to finding solutions. This iterative problem-solving approach is crucial in navigating the unpredictable waters of running a thriving business.
Entrepreneurship demands being a visionary while also managing risks and operational challenges. Pursuing unique dreams, like making high-end wristwatches from antique pocket watches, is risky yet immensely rewarding."
Expansion with Colorado Watch Company
Recognizing the constraints of their current production capacity, Arty and his team launched a new brand—Colorado Watch Company. This venture aims to scale production and penetrate a broader market with more affordable timepieces priced between $1,000 and $1,500. It’s a strategic move to balance high-end exclusivity with accessible luxury.
Celebrating Wins and Overcoming Legal Battles
Among his multifaceted responsibilities, Arty is also writing a book detailing his victory over a major watch company in a federal court case. This triumph underscores Vortic’s commitment to preserving its unique identity and reinforces the importance of standing firm on core values amidst industry challenges.
Personal Growth and Adaptation
RT's personal narrative includes a significant geographical and lifestyle shift from Pennsylvania’s cloudy environment to Colorado’s sunny climate. This move not only improved his overall well-being but also enhanced his appreciation for an active lifestyle. Kristy relates her similar transition from the Philippines to Ohio, where she adapted to new experiences and found joy in activities like snowboarding and skiing.
Final Reflections on Values and Vision
The conversation between Kristy and Arty ultimately crystallizes around the enduring importance of core values. These values, when authentically woven into the fabric of a business, create a stable foundation capable of withstanding market fluctuations, legal battles, and internal challenges. They guide decision-making processes and foster a culture where team members feel valued and empowered.
RT’s reflections on his upbringing on a Christmas tree farm, combined with the strategic and ethical considerations that shape Vortic Watch Company, provide a robust blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs. By steadfastly adhering to values of integrity, empathy, and respect, and by viewing wealth and freedom as dual components of the American Dream, business leaders can cultivate a legacy that transcends financial success.
Connecting with RT Custer and Vortic Watch Company
For those interested in learning more about RT Custer and Vortic Watch Company, Arty can be reached through Instagram and LinkedIn. His story, seated at the intersection of heritage and innovation, offers valuable insights into the perseverance and strategic vision required to build and sustain a business legacy.
