Ep 193 - Building Success Through Intentional Relationships: Insights from Kevin Thompson

Paper Napkin Wisdom

In episode 193 of the Paper Napkin Wisdom podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Kevin Thompson, a seasoned connector of entrepreneurs and a strategic partnership expert. Kevin, whose career spans over two decades, has dedicated himself to helping entrepreneurs cultivate meaningful and profitable partnerships grounded in integrity, trust, and shared values. Throughout the episode, Kevin provides a refreshing perspective on how focusing on relationships over revenue has profoundly shaped his success. His message is clear: when we lead with service and genuine connection, the right opportunities will naturally follow.

The Roots of Intentional Relationships

Kevin's journey into partnership-building began in the early 2000s, but it was one pivotal statement that shifted his approach: "Relationships are our most valuable asset." This mantra resonated deeply with him, and over the years, it became the cornerstone of his business philosophy. He shared, “At a seminar back in 2006 or 2007, someone said that, and I thought, 'They’re totally right. That’s been my experience, and I want to experience more of that.’”

For Kevin, relationships are not just about the immediate transaction but about cultivating a long-term connection that benefits all parties involved. His story underscores the importance of being selective in partnerships, staying true to one's values, and keeping a focus on delivering value to others.

Focusing on Service Over Profit

One of Kevin's defining principles is his unwavering focus on service. He described how, during one of his first partnerships with entrepreneur Joe Polish, he realized that, rather than simply aiming to profit, his real goal was to “be of service to my partner, helping them further the relationship they already have with the people they serve.” Kevin believes that this mindset has allowed him to build trust with his partners and consistently attract valuable opportunities. As Kevin puts it, “If we don’t subscribe to the same kinds of core values, it’s not going to be a fit.”

The Power of Saying No

Knowing when to walk away from a potential partnership is a lesson many entrepreneurs struggle with, especially when it involves lucrative opportunities. Kevin has mastered the art of saying no when a collaboration doesn’t align with his values or when he believes he cannot be of true service to the other party. He shared, “I have no problem saying no to potential revenue opportunities if they’re not in alignment with my values.”

Kevin's commitment to authenticity is a guiding light for anyone looking to make an impact without compromising their integrity. This perspective helps him avoid misaligned ventures, focusing instead on those that resonate with his core mission.

Staying True to Purpose Under Pressure

In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining focus on what matters can be challenging, especially for entrepreneurs juggling numerous responsibilities. Kevin is intentional about staying grounded in his values, even when faced with pressure. He shared how his commitment to family has helped shape his business decisions: “I structured my business so that it fits in with the lifestyle I want, allowing me to be a husband and father first, and an entrepreneur second.”

Kevin’s unwavering dedication to his principles has allowed him to cultivate a fulfilling life where his business and personal values coexist harmoniously. His approach serves as an inspiring model for entrepreneurs seeking balance in their own lives.

Key Takeaways and Actions

Here are five actionable insights from Kevin Thompson’s philosophy that entrepreneurs and leaders can apply to enhance their own partnerships and business success

1. Relationships Are Your Most Valuable Asset

• Kevin’s belief that relationships are paramount encourages entrepreneurs to invest in meaningful connections over purely transactional ones. By focusing on trust and mutual respect, partnerships become sustainable and valuable long-term.

• Take Action: Review your current partnerships and identify those that align with your core values. Strengthen these relationships by reaching out to provide support, offering insights, or simply acknowledging their value to you.

2. Be of Service to Your Partners

• For Kevin, every partnership begins with a focus on service. He approaches each collaboration with the intent to enhance his partner’s success, saying, “I help my partners further their relationship with the people they serve.”

• Take Action: Ask yourself how you can be of service in each of your business relationships. Whether it’s sharing resources, offering introductions, or helping a partner reach a wider audience, find ways to add value.

3. Know When to Say No

• Kevin’s commitment to staying true to his values means he’s selective about who he partners with. He emphasized the importance of saying no when a collaboration doesn’t align with one’s principles, even if it’s financially tempting.

• Take Action: Develop a “values filter” for new opportunities. List the core values that define your business, and assess each potential partnership against these criteria. If it doesn’t align, have the courage to say no.

4. Balance Business with Life Priorities

• One of Kevin’s guiding principles is structuring his business to support his family life. This commitment to balance ensures that he can remain true to his values in all aspects of life.

• Take Action: Set boundaries in your work that support your personal priorities. Whether it’s family time, self-care, or personal growth, make sure your business operates in harmony with your lifestyle.

5. Focus on Long-Term Impact

• Kevin’s approach centers on creating lasting relationships that make a positive difference in the lives of others. This long-term mindset fosters trust and deepens connections with partners and clients.

• Take Action: Identify one partnership where you could make a greater impact by going beyond the immediate business objectives. Focus on adding value that will enhance your partner’s goals, strengthening the bond over time.

Kevin Thompson’s philosophy is a powerful reminder that success is not solely measured by profits but by the meaningful relationships we cultivate along the way. As entrepreneurs and leaders, his story encourages us to reflect on our partnerships and consider how we can serve, support, and elevate those around us.

Connect with Kevin Thompson

To learn more about Kevin and his work, visit:

• Kevin Thompson on LinkedIn

• Million Dollar Relationships Podcast

Let us know your takeaways from this episode by sharing them with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom!