Kevin Halbert’s Path to Business Ownership
EFBC MEMBER SPOTLIGHT
Kevin Halbert built his career in strategy and management consulting, helping large enterprises tackle complex challenges. But he wanted something more—an opportunity to take ownership of decisions and see their impact firsthand. That opportunity came with Winkler Tree, where he transitioned from advising businesses to leading one.
We are proud to have Kevin as a member of the Entrepreneur and Family Business Council. We reached out to him to gain insights into his path to business ownership, learning how he has navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship while embracing the impact his business has on the urban landscape.
From Consultant to Business Owner
Kevin spent years solving complex business problems across industries, particularly in mining and chemical production. While he valued the intellectual challenge of consulting, he wanted to take on a role where he could see the long-term impact of his decisions.
“I enjoyed tackling new problems with new clients, but was often frustrated by the lack of long-term ownership over the results of our work. We would typically make a recommendation, launch the initiative, and then move on to another client or issue,” Kevin shared. “I wanted the chance to be the principal decision maker who would have to live with the pros and cons of my own decisions and actions. Owning and operating my own business has certainly been that!”
Overcoming the Learning Curve
Stepping into the tree care industry as an outsider wasn’t easy. Earning trust—from both employees and industry peers—took time, effort, and patience.
“I understandably faced a lot of skepticism from both employees and industry peers,” Kevin admitted. “The only way to resolve that was through time and effort, but it certainly wasn’t easy to build the experience and trust right out of the gate. I’m grateful to a lot of exceptional teammates and industry peers for giving me a chance to learn and earn their trust.”
Beyond relationships, the operational side of running a small business also came with challenges.
“I had a broad background in finance and operations, but had never worked in a small business where people and process issues are just different from those in large enterprises,” he explained. Over time, he built the experience and network needed to make more confident decisions. “You develop a network of ‘go-to’ people for different issues, which makes it a lot easier and faster to make better decisions.”
Growing a Legacy
For Kevin, tree care is more than just a business—it’s about making a lasting impact on the environment and the community. The trees Winkler cares for today will shape the urban landscape for generations to come.
“We’re a team of tree lovers, and the trees themselves are the legacy we hope to leave behind. We’re proud to play our small part in creating and maintaining a healthy urban forest, populated by people who appreciate it,” he said.
Not everyone sees tree care as a priority—some see it as a task to check off a list. But for those who recognize the beauty and importance of trees, Kevin’s team is eager to help.
“I think most people subconsciously get a lot of positive benefits from trees, even if they don’t notice or think about them very often. Next time you’re outside, take a moment just to notice the volume of trees in our region. Try to imagine your neighborhood if all of the trees were gone. Their absence would be striking, and they’d be greatly missed.”
Proud to Have Kevin in Our Community
At EFBC, we are proud to have Kevin as part of our community of business leaders. His dedication to learning, adapting, and making a meaningful impact—both in his business and in the environment—exemplifies the drive, resilience, and leadership that define great entrepreneurs. We look forward to supporting his continued growth and celebrating the lasting contributions he and Winkler Tree Service are making to our local landscape.
Read Kevin’s full interview:
Q: What drew you to transition from your previous career to business ownership?
I spent the previous 10 years as a strategy and management consultant for large enterprises, working across a broad range of industries, though primarily focused on mining and chemical production. I enjoyed tackling new problems with new clients, but I was often frustrated by the lack of long-term ownership over the results of our work.
We would typically make a recommendation, launch the initiative, and then move on to another client or issue. The role was primarily focused on influencing decision-makers, but I wanted the chance to be the principal decision-maker—someone who had to live with both the pros and cons of my own decisions and actions. Owning and operating my own business has certainly been that!
Q: What were some of the challenges you faced during the transition?
The list is long! As an outsider entering the tree care industry for the first time, I understandably faced a lot of skepticism from both employees and industry peers. The only way to resolve that was through time and effort, but it certainly wasn’t easy to build the experience and trust right out of the gate. I’m grateful to a lot of exceptional teammates and industry peers for giving me a chance to learn and earn their trust.
Another big challenge was simply how long it took to solve problems I had never faced before. I had a broad background in finance and operations, but I had never worked in a small business where people and process issues are just different from those in large enterprises.
Over time, you start to build some pattern recognition, and you also develop a network of “go-to” people for different issues. That has made it a lot easier—and faster—to make better decisions.
Q: What legacy do you hope to leave as the owner of Winkler Tree?
We’re a team of tree lovers, and the trees themselves are the legacy we hope to leave behind. We’re proud to play our small part in creating and maintaining a healthy urban forest, surrounded by people who appreciate it.
Some people, of course, view tree care as a necessary burden they have to deal with, and we’re happy to help them through that. But it’s especially rewarding to work with clients who truly appreciate trees and care about maintaining them for the broader community and future generations.
I think most people subconsciously benefit from trees, even if they don’t often stop to notice them. Next time you’re outside, take a moment just to observe the volume of trees in our region. Now, try to imagine your neighborhood if all of the trees were gone. Their absence would be striking, and they’d be greatly missed.
EFBC President’s Message: Building Positive Momentum in the New Year
EFBC Welcomes a New Program Coordinator
We are thrilled to welcome Caroline to EFBC as our new Program Coordinator! A proud graduate of the University of Missouri, Caroline studied Marketing and Business Administration, equipping her with a strong foundation in strategy, relationship building, and business development. With experience in sales and retail marketing, Caroline brings a creative mindset and a talent for fostering connections—both of which will help her develop engaging programs and enhance the member experience at EFBC.
Get to know Caroline:
1. What drew you to EFBC, and what excites you most about joining the team?
The community and company values that EFBC holds is what drew me the most. I’m excited to get to know my team and the members the most!
2. Please tell us a little about your professional background and what you hope to bring to EFBC.
Most of my experience is in sales and retail marketing, I hope to be able to use my relationship building skills and sales mindset to bring new and fun ideas to EFBC.
3. In your spare time, what do you like to do for fun?
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, and trying new restaurants!
4. What is your go-to karaoke song?
“Don’t Stop Believing” – Journey
How to Get the Most Out of Your EFBC Membership
So you’ve already joined EFBC—nice job! You’ve taken an important step toward fostering growth and support for your business and professional development. Now, it’s time to make the most of your membership by actively engaging with the resources, connections, and opportunities EFBC provides. Here are some tips to ensure you’re getting the full value out of your membership:
1. Engage with Your Forum
At the heart of EFBC are our Forums, where members connect monthly in a small, confidential setting to dive deeper into the challenges and victories of business leadership.
How Forums Work
- Each Forum has nine members who meet monthly.
- One member presents a current issue they are facing, while others offer support through shared experiences, not advice.
- Discussions are guided by Forum Protocols, including clarifying questions, shared experiences, and appreciation.
Forum Options
- Full Forum: Dedicated peer group with deep engagement.
- Flex Forum: Flexible option tailored to individual needs.
Forum Protocols
- Clarifying Questions: Non-judgmental questions from genuine curiosity, often leading to deeper insights.
- Shared Experiences: Members share relevant successes or mistakes instead of giving advice.
- Appreciation: A dedicated time to express gratitude and boost each other’s self-esteem.
Forums foster trust, mutual respect, and equality, creating a supportive space where members share personal and professional experiences.
2. Attend Events and Workshops
EFBC hosts a variety of events throughout the year, designed to provide practical education, foster community, and offer networking opportunities.
Event Categories
- Workshops: Practical training sessions.
- Roundtables: Open discussions for sharing and learning from peers.
- Fireside Chats: Insights and Q&A with industry experts.
- Breakfast Club/Seminars: Casual learning and networking opportunities.
- Community Events: Partnered initiatives to serve the broader community.
3. Leverage Educational Resources
EFBC equips members with essential knowledge and skills through programs that empower them to work on their businesses rather than in them.
- Resources: Articles, guides, recorded webinars, the Transition Preparation Assessment (TPA), and a rich array of insights from our strategic partners’ resources, blogs, and newsletters—all accessible on their company websites.
- Action Step: Subscribe to EFBC’s newsletter or community hub updates and explore our strategic partners’ resources to ensure you don’t miss new resources.
4. Build Relationship with Fellow Members
Networking is a cornerstone of EFBC’s mission. Take the time to build genuine relationships with other members, both inside and outside of your Forum. These connections can lead to valuable collaborations, mentorships, and lifelong friendships.
Networking Tips
- Attend informal meetups or social events.
- Connect with members on LinkedIn and follow up to strengthen connections.
5. Utilize the Community Hub on Hivebrite
Make the most of the EFBC Community Hub by:
- Using the discussion board or live feed to ask for advice, share business questions, or simply say hello.
- Exploring your Forum group and interest groups to foster deeper connections.
Membership isn’t just about what you receive; it’s also about what you give. Share your expertise, offer support to peers, and volunteer for initiatives within EFBC. Your contributions will enrich the community and deepen your engagement.
6. Tap Into Strategic Partners
EFBC’s eight Strategic Partners are your lifeline—just a phone call away. Their expertise spans law, finance, marketing, accounting, insurance, human resources, banking, and IT, making them invaluable resources for members. Fluent in the EFBC way, these devoted firms offer consulting, answer questions, and provide tailored guidance. Through one-on-one support and educational workshops, they empower members with the knowledge and tools to navigate challenges effectively.
7. Set Personal and Professional Goals
Define clear goals for what you want to achieve. Whether it’s developing leadership skills, expanding your network, or resolving a specific business challenge, having a focus will help you utilize EFBC resources effectively.
8. Stay Involved Year-Round
Consistency is key. Engage with EFBC regularly to maintain momentum and stay connected to the community’s benefits. This ongoing involvement ensures you’ll continue to reap the rewards of membership.
EFBC Stats
- $2,983,840,000: Member Companies’ Total Revenue
- 6,349: Membership Total Years in Business
- 10,159: Jobs Created by Member Companies
Membership Levels
EFBC offers multiple membership levels tailored to meet the needs of diverse members.
Enterprise Membership ($5,150/year)
- Full Forum placement for one.
- Access to over 25 programs and events for you, your family, and your company every year.
Pro Membership ($2,575/year)
- Membership for one individual.
- Yearly access to Flex Forum.
- Access to over 25 programs and events.
Add-On Membership ($1,288/year)
- Option for Enterprise Members to add key employees or family members.
- One Full Forum placement.
- Access to Flex Forum.
By actively participating and leveraging the full range of EFBC offerings, you’ll unlock opportunities for growth, collaboration, and success. Your membership is an investment in yourself, your business, and your future—so make the most of it!
The Power of Appreciation: Building a Positive Workplace Culture
In today’s fast-paced work environment, where deadlines loom and productivity is king, one simple yet powerful tool often goes overlooked: appreciation. Recognizing employees’ efforts and contributions can transform workplace dynamics, improve mental well-being, and boost business success. In this blog, we’ll explore why appreciation matters, the benefits of a positive workplace culture, and how to foster an environment where gratitude thrives.
What is Workplace Appreciation?
Workplace appreciation goes beyond monetary rewards like bonuses and pay raises. It encompasses recognition, acknowledgment, and valuing employees’ efforts in tangible and intangible ways. From a simple “thank you” in a team meeting to celebrating milestone achievements, appreciation creates a sense of belonging and worth.
The Ripple Effect of Appreciation
Appreciation has a profound effect on both individual employees and the broader organization. When employees feel seen and valued, they are more likely to experience higher job satisfaction, loyalty, and overall well-being. This concept ties into key psychological frameworks like Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, where esteem and belonging are essential human motivators.
Appreciation is not just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a fundamental driver of workplace happiness, and its impact ripples through every level of the business.
The Benefits of a Positive Workplace Culture
1. Increased Employee Retention
Employee engagement skyrockets when appreciation is a consistent part of company culture. Studies reveal that companies with effective employee recognition programs experience a 31% reduction in voluntary turnover.
2. Boosted Productivity
Want to see productivity soar? Create a culture where employees feel seen and celebrated. Recognition motivates employees to do their best work, and companies with robust recognition programs report higher performance outcomes.
3. Better Mental Health
Appreciation is a powerful tool for mental well-being. When employees feel acknowledged, their stress levels decrease, and they experience improved emotional health. Research has shown that gratitude can reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase oxytocin (the “bonding” hormone), promoting better mood and relationships. In a world where workplace burnout is on the rise, appreciation can be a simple yet effective antidote.
Strategies to Cultivate Appreciation
1. Start at the Leadership Level
A culture of appreciation starts at the top. Leaders set the tone for what is valued and recognized in a workplace. When managers openly praise team members, it normalizes gratitude throughout the organization. Leadership behaviors that promote positivity include:
Publicly recognizing individual and team accomplishments.
Encouraging open discussions about employee wins during team meetings.
Sharing “thank you” messages in team-wide newsletters.
2. Create Systems for Recognition
Instead of relying on ad-hoc appreciation, implement formal systems that make recognition a consistent habit. Consider these options:
Peer-to-peer shoutouts via Slack, Microsoft Teams, or intranet platforms.
Milestone celebrations for work anniversaries or goal completions.
Not everyone responds to recognition in the same way. Some employees may prefer public acknowledgment, while others may appreciate a private thank-you email. Encourage managers to ask employees how they like to be recognized and tailor appreciation accordingly. A personal touch can make all the difference in showing employees that their unique contributions matter.
3. Integrate Appreciation into Daily Culture
Appreciation should not be a “one-and-done” event. Infuse it into daily routines through:
“Thank You” moments in meetings, where each team member calls out a colleague who helped them that week.
Gratitude newsletters that spotlight employee wins and milestones.
Celebration calendars that track and celebrate birthdays, work anniversaries, and major project completions.
When appreciation becomes an everyday occurrence, employees come to expect—and reflect—it in their own actions.
Appreciation through connection at EFBC
At the Entrepreneur and Family Business Council (EFBC), we understand that feeling valued is essential for personal and professional growth. Through our peer forums, workshops, and mentorship programs, EFBC creates a space where business leaders and entrepreneurs can feel seen, heard, and supported. Members have the opportunity to share challenges, celebrate wins, and receive meaningful feedback from a community that genuinely cares. By fostering a culture of open communication and shared learning, EFBC ensures that every member feels appreciated not just for their successes, but for their efforts, ideas, and unique perspectives.
Five Email Newsletters Every Business Leader Should Subscribe To
The 2020s has been called the age of the email newsletter, and for good reason. For business leaders, these newsletters are a valuable way to stay informed, inspired, and ahead of industry trends without scouring the internet. Many of them, much like the podcasts we highlighted in our “Tune In And Cash In: 3 Podcasts You Should Listen to Before Selling Your Business” blog from September, are also free.
Plus, there are a multitude of options for those who like to receive their knowledge in this manner. In the business category alone, there have been over 365 million newsletters launched on LinkedIn since 2017. This is, ostensibly, a good thing. It makes finding and reading relevant content more convenient than ever by providing insight into industry trends, stories, information, and expertise that is delivered straight to your inbox. But with the riches also come the spoils. And while each of those 365 million newsletters may contain valuable information, most of us don’t have time to read millions of newsletters a day. We have to be a bit discerning about which subscriptions are worth our time. Luckily, we vetted the top twenty-five business-related email newsletters and found five that we think that we think are more than worth your time. So, without further ado, here are five email newsletters that EVERY business leader could benefit from subscribing to. They are…
With over four million subscribers, this is one of the most popular email newsletters out there, so if you don’t already subscribe, you should. The schtick behind this one is that each of the daily emails from The Morning Brew offers updates about the business world that can be consumed in just five minutes (or the length of time it takes you to drink a cup of coffee).
James Clear, the best-selling author of Atomic Habits, takes a unique approach with his weekly newsletter, which is also a five-minute read. In each installment, Clear delivers three ideas, two quotes, and one question worth pondering. The result is something more thought-provoking than pedantic, making reading 3-2-1 a great (and quick) way to shake off the brain fog that comes with the work week and prompt yourself to think outside the box.
Perhaps the most technical newsletter we have on this list, Term Sheet offers daily news and analysis related to private equity, venture capital, start-ups, mergers and acquisitions, and high-value deals. These reads can trend slightly longer (more like ten minutes than five), but they contain gold standard content produced by Fortune. Additionally, each issue features an updated list of venture and private equity deals, exits, and funds.
What we love about this email newsletter is that it focuses on the mental side of business success, covering topics such as personal productivity and well-being. It is released weekly and put out by Jason Feifer, who also serves at the chief editor of Entrepreneur magazine. In it, Feifer shares useful and actionable tips on how to be more “successful and satisfied” in both business and life. If you’re looking to lead with confidence while staying grounded, this weekly read is for you.
This one is HR specific, but since HR is the foundation of any good company, and since we love and trust the woman behind this newsletter, we wanted to include Workology on this list. Produced by veteran entrepreneur Jessica Miller-Merrell, this weekly newsletter focuses on HR topics like leadership and recruiting, providing advice that is simultaneously timeless and disruptive.
Of course, there are so many great email newsletters out there. (We certainly had trouble whittling the list down to five.) If you prefer learning through this format, it’s also worth conducting a quick search to see which email newsletters are particularly popular or useful to your current business needs. Whatever those needs are, you will find a newsletter that addresses them.
However, the newsletters listed above are a great place to start! Each provides insightful, thought-provoking, and even entertaining content that might have you actually looking forward to opening your inbox at the start of your work day.
Stay Connected with Our Strategic Partners
In addition to these excellent newsletters, don’t forget to explore the insights and resources shared by our Strategic Partners. From IT and insurance to finance and HR, they provide valuable knowledge tailored to business leaders.
If you’re interested in subscribing to their newsletters, please contact us or reach out directly to the Strategic Partners. In the meantime, you can access their expertise through the resources available on their websites:
EFBC Welcomes a New Team Member
Olivia joined EFBC last month as a Marketing Coordinator.
1. What drew you to EFBC, and what excites you most about joining the team?
EFBC stood out to me because of its close-knit team and extensive, strong community. I’m looking forward to working alongside dedicated colleagues and contributing to their impactful work and mission.
2. Please tell us a little about your professional background and what you hope to bring to EFBC.
I graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a BS in Advertising and a BFA in Graphic Design. Loving design and strategy, I found my place in marketing, working on marketing and design projects for all different types of companies.
Starting my own business has always been a dream and last year it finally came to fruition. Inspired by my love of design and Chicago’s many vintage stores and markets, I started a business selling vintage clothing and jewelry and joined three vintage collective brick-and-motor stores in the city.
I’ve long admired entrepreneurs and their ability to forge their own paths, and launching my own business has only deepened that appreciation. At EFBC, I’m excited to bring a fresh perspective to our marketing efforts and to help grow and strengthen our community of business leaders and entrepreneurs.
3. In your spare time, what do you like to do for fun?
I enjoy exploring the city and discovering new shops and neighborhoods. Living in Wicker Park, I especially love rollerblading and running on the 606 during the summer.
4. What is your go-to karaoke song?
“Since You Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson.