Description

In an age where “growth” is often mistaken for success, what does it really take to scale a company with integrity, purpose, and impact?

On this episode of Become Sensible, I sit down with Paul Blackman, Jr., Managing Principal of Trusted Advisory Group, to unpack two decades of leadership experience across the public and private sectors. From overseeing $4B in city projects as Deputy Director of DC General Services to leading complex developments in healthcare, housing, and education, Paul shares what it means to grow a business that uplifts communities—not just bottom lines.

We talk about the myths of scaling, the power of relationships, and why “integration” matters more than “balance” when you’re leading a team and a family. “A problem well framed is half solved,” Paul says—and his story proves that clarity, consistency, and connection are the foundation of every sustainable business.

Paul Blackman, Jr. is the Managing Principal of Trusted Advisory Group, a Washington, D.C.–based consulting firm specializing in project and construction management, real estate development, and strategic advisory for public and private clients. A former Deputy Director of DC General Services, Paul has led over $4 billion in infrastructure projects and now mentors organizations and leaders on how to scale with purpose and integrity.

Guest Links

• Trusted Advisory Group
• Paul Blackman, Jr. on LinkedIn

Connect

• Follow me, Fiona Nguyen, on LinkedIn. Learn more about Balannx.

Timestamps

• 0:00 – Intro
• 0:32 – Paul’s journey from public service to entrepreneurship
• 4:00 – Bridging private- and public-sector values
• 9:00 – Early days of building Trusted Advisory Group
• 13:00 – The first big break and lessons from A-list partnerships
• 17:30 – Why relationships and time are the real business currencies
• 23:00 – Finding purpose during the pandemic and leading through uncertainty
• 29:00 – Shifting from operator to visionary leader
• 35:00 – Listening, feedback, and avoiding blind spots as a CEO
• 40:00 – Balancing high standards with sustainable growth
• 46:00 – Reinvesting wisely and preparing for the AI-driven future
• 55:00 – Paul’s advice to his day-one self and closing reflections

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