In this episode of Innovation Meets Leadership, Natalie Born sits down with Scott Smith, CEO of True Network Advisors. Scott has transformed the employee benefits industry by building a thriving community of 93+ member agencies and curating industry-leading events that go beyond networking—they create unforgettable experiences.From humble beginnings in rural Alabama to leading one of the most collaborative networks in the industry, Scott shares how trust, authenticity, and obsession with customer experience fueled his journey. If you’ve ever wondered how to build communities that not only grow but last—or how leaders can balance kindness with clarity—this conversation is for you.
[00:00 – 04:00] Scott’s Origin Story
How encouragement from peers led to founding True Network Advisors.
Starting with 19 agencies in 2016 and scaling to 93+ today.
Why being good and kind to people built the foundation for success.
[04:01 – 09:00] Designing Experiences That Matter
The early missteps—like discovering hotel coffee costs $130 a gallon.
Building events around learning first, fun second.
Moving away from stuffy, transactional events toward collaboration, casual settings, and genuine connection.
[09:01 – 13:00] Mission, Identity, and Creativity
True’s simple mission: “Help agencies and people grow, develop, and prosper.”
Defining community identity: smart, curious, kind people who crave collaboration.
Why it’s okay to be “repulsive” to the wrong people—and magnetic to the right ones.
[13:01 – 18:00] Authenticity and Vulnerability in Leadership
The role of self-awareness and embracing who you are.
Scott’s personal story of growing up in rural Alabama and the impact of his father’s struggles.
How vulnerability builds trust and helps people feel less alone.
[18:01 – 24:00] Kindness Meets Clarity
Why true kindness often requires tough conversations.
Leadership as balancing honesty, accountability, and care.
How clarity prevents blind spots that can derail careers.
[24:01 – 29:00] Leadership Lessons Learned
Starting True at 45—and why he wishes he had risked earlier.
The superpower of listening with empathy.
Why kindness always wins, and how to ground leadership in love and care for others.
“Listening is a superpower. If you become the best listener in the universe, you’ll stand out in any room.” – Scott Smith
“Kindness isn’t just being nice. Sometimes the kindest thing you can do is tell the hard truth.” – Scott Smith
“Our mission is simple: help agencies and people grow, develop, and prosper. Everything flows from that.” – Scott Smith
LinkedIn: Scott Smith – True Network Advisors (search True Network Advisors Scott Smith)
Website: truenetworkadvisors.com
Concert Series: lakecityconcerts.com
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