Episode Highlights
Zach Christensen, co-founder of Lifestyle Medical, discusses how he transitioned from a mechanical engineer to an entrepreneur by focusing on the “human side” of a technical industry. He argues that when you prioritize people—both team members and clients—profit becomes a natural byproduct rather than a forced objective.
The core of Zach’s philosophy is that culture isn’t just a feeling; it’s a system. By “engineering” culture through daily habits, shared values, and continuous learning, Lifestyle Medical has built a resilient team that thrives on mutual success and perseverance.
1. Daily huddles
- The A1 Priority: Every team member identifies the one thing they must get done today.
- Gamify Success: Implement a point system for hitting daily priorities (e.g., 25 points = a gift card) to build momentum.
- Value Spotlight: Have one team member share a 2-minute thought on one of your company values every day.
2. “Luncheteers”
- Start a Book Club: Use a shared reading list to build a common language.
- Define Your “Why”: Use the RISE acronym (Reinforce culture, shared Idioms, Synergize, Expand/Grow).
- Rotate Facilitation: Let different team members lead the discussion to develop their leadership skills.
3. The Quarterly “Pulse” Meeting
- Transparency: Share new initiatives and business updates so everyone sees the “big picture.”
- Open Q&A: Create a safe space for any question.
- Pro Tip: As a leader, be comfortable with silence. Wait until someone asks a question to prove you are truly listening.
4. Behavioral Guideposts
- Filter Decisions Through Values: When facing a tough choice, stop and ask: “Does this align with [Value X]?”
- Address Misalignment Early: Use the communication skills learned in your book club to have hard conversations when someone isn’t living the values.
Check out Lifestyle Medical’s Luncheteer’s book list:
2024 – Year of Communication
Q1 – How to Win Friends & Influence People – Carnegie
Q2 – Crucial Conversations – Patterson, Grenny, et al.
Q3 – Never Split the Difference – Voss
Q4 – Radical Candor – Scott
2025 – Year of Responsibility
Q1 – Extreme Ownership – Willink & Babin
Q2 – Chop Wood, Carry Water – Medcalf
Q3 – Finish What You Start – Hollins
Q4 – The Mountain Is You – Wiest
2026 – Year of Gratitude
Q1 – A Simple Act of Gratitude – Kralik
Q2 – Thanks! – Emmons
Learn more about Lifestyle Medical’s culture: lifestyleengr.com/careers
