Phillip Simpson - How Entrepreneurs Can Balance Ambition, Focus, and Purpose

Phillip Simpson is the CEO of SFM Services, a family of companies that helps schools, churches, and other mission-driven organizations clean, maintain, and secure their facilities. He leads the company's growth, culture, and operations while developing teams that deliver dependable, high-quality work. A West Point graduate, former Army infantry officer, and an elite wrestler who trained for the Olympics, Phillip has experience in leadership, discipline, talent development, and building organizations around clear values. In this episode… Building a meaningful career often requires choosing between competing definitions of success. Strong leadership also depends on knowing when to pursue an opportunity, when to step back, and how to protect the values that matter most. How can entrepreneurs grow with ambition without losing focus, authenticity, or balance? Leadership and operations expert Phillip Simpson answers that question through disciplined priorities and intentional decision-making. He recommends choosing environments where trusted people will invest in your potential, recognizing that different employees require different forms of motivation, and resisting opportunities that distract from core strengths. Phillip also emphasizes identifying where you can excel rather than trying to master everything, creating conditions for people to perform meaningful work, and treating vulnerability as a tool for growth. In this episode of The Decision, Robert Hartline talks with Phillip Simpson, CEO of SFM Services, about making difficult choices while building a values-driven business. Phillip explains how military and athletic experiences shaped his leadership style, why entrepreneurs must learn to say no, and how a strong culture helps people thrive. He also offers lessons on mentorship, vulnerability, and balancing growth with family.