John Venhuizen, CEO of Ace Hardware, knows firsthand that business is tough — a constant battle against some of the biggest players out there. But for John, it’s never just about products or profit. It’s about people, relationships, and a deep sense of purpose. In this conversation, John opens up about how Ace’s unique model — combining a powerful global brand with locally owned stores — creates something special that can’t be easily replicated. He talks about the daily grind of leadership, the importance of embracing problems head-on, and why a servant heart is the true competitive edge in today’s tech-driven world. John also gets candid about balancing leadership with life, why humility matters more than titles, and how AI is helping Ace’s frontline heroes serve customers better — all while never losing sight of the human connection that really moves people. If you’re looking for honest, practical leadership advice rooted in real-world experience, this episode is for you.