In this unforgettable CG Live Podcast episode, I sit down with bestselling author and keynote speaker Damon West, whose powerful redemption story and Coffee Bean message captivated the entire room at our Q3 event in Dallas. Damon's journey—from a life sentence in prison to becoming a nationally sought-after speaker—is the ultimate story of transformation through mindset, service, and personal responsibility.
We dive into the heart of what it means to be a "coffee bean"—a change agent who transforms their environment instead of being changed by it. Damon also breaks down the secret to life (hint: it's servant leadership), shares lessons from inside the prison system, and connects his message to the culture-building work entrepreneurs must lead in their companies and homes. If you're looking for inspiration backed by raw truth and hard-earned wisdom, this one's for you.
[0:00] - Introduction
[2:20] - Damon explains the Coffee Bean story and why it matters
[3:41] - From Uptown Burglar to prison to parole: a story of redemption
[5:09] - How Damon changed the energy of a prison through community
[8:21] - The secret to life? Servant leadership—and why it changes everything
[10:47] - How to teach servant leadership to your kids at home
[12:27] - Building culture in your business: top-down and bottom-up
[13:53] - What great teams do when the leader isn't in the room
[14:43] - Why the Coffee Bean message sticks—and how to bring Damon in
[16:14] - Kobe, consistency, and never getting bored with the basics
Be the change agent – Like a coffee bean, transform your environment by choosing your mindset and taking action.
Servant leadership is the secret to life – Help others grow, and you'll grow too—in business, relationships, and beyond.
Culture starts with you – A great team doesn't wait for the leader to show up. They hold each other to a higher standard.
Learn more about Damon West and book him to speak: damonwest.org
Read The Coffee Bean by Damon West & Jon Gordon
Apply to join the CG community: explorecg.com
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