A Case Study in Success and Leadership

You don’t often get a front-row seat to greatness. Years ago, Calista gave me the honor of finding a deal. That ultimately led me to being a key team lead running the deal to purchase Brice, Inc. — now known as Calista Brice. Back then, they averaged less than $50M a year. Today, they’re a powerhouse well into the hundreds of millions. Growth like that doesn’t happen by accident — it happens because of leadership, culture, and authenticity.

Leading the way is Sam Robert Brice.

Sam is one of the few people I often think: If I could lead more like him, be more like him, I’d be better for it. Furthermore, I have a deep fondness for the entire family. Except Alba Brice, not pictured (thank goodness). J/K. Alba’s one of my closest friends.

Sam’s charisma, authenticity, care, and passion make him not just an incredible leader, but one of the kindest and most loyal people in this business. It’s no surprise that loyalty flows right back to him. There’s probably very little to nothing Sam could ask me to do for him that I wouldn’t do. I don’t think I’m alone in that.

Alongside Sam Robert in the meeting are some of the best professionals I’ve had the privilege to know:
• Todd Henderson, CFO — a steady hand during the deal and a voice of wisdom and class.
• Krista O’Neill, VP of Administration — unmatched in her passion, leadership, and guidance.
• Lloyd M, the gray beard construction expert — among the best in the industry.
• Stefan Rearden, being trained to succeed Sam at some point — a perfect example of world-class succession planning done right. The right leader.
• Kem and Brad, two incredible facilitators who have become dear friends. I’ve worked with plenty of facilitators. Never any like these two.

When Sam Robert asked me to sit in on their meeting, it was an honor. Every time I’m around them, I learn something new — about leadership, humility, and how to build something that lasts.

The Brice family, their team under Calista, and their journey are a powerful success story — not just for their company, but for their families, the Calista Corporation and shareholders, employees, customers, and community. It’s a phenomenal success story so far.

I’m proud to call Sam a mentor and hold such a close relationship with his team. We both run large business lines, and I’ve enjoyed being his teammate and friend for so many years.

Leadership matters. Culture matters. People matter.
This team is living proof.