This post is part of a series of short posts where I highlight just a few attributes of the E-g partners.
Don is the voice of our people. He spends time intentionally connecting with our folks to understand how they feel and think about stuff that goes on in the company. He makes them feel valued by listening to what they have to say and will debate (like daughter like father!) with them to ensure they consider all angles. This interaction provides a couple very valuable benefits. First, it provides a channel for us to hear what are folks are saying, which allows us to consider changes in light of that information. Second, it builds a level of knowledge around what goes on behind the scenes to make E-g work and gives insight into how seriously we take our responsibilities as owners. Don really enjoys this aspect of his work and it shows.
Don is a data nerd. Whether it’s fantasy sports, a healthcare company or E-g health insurance, Don loves to crunch some data and he’s gifted at it. That “Health Insurance Scenario Generator” that we use every year to determine which health plan is best for our families? That’s Don’s handiwork. We all appreciate that Don takes the time and care to put these great tools together so that we can all make wise and responsible choices.
Don is also extremely gifted when it comes to managing our office space. He had a major hand in how our space was built out – a skill I have zero aptitude in for sure. Our office space is functional and beautiful because of Don’s contributions and effort. Don takes care of us by making sure we have a comfortable space to work and we have the right techy stuff to get our work done.
Don has a great heart and loves the Lord. He’s a great (and very busy) dad who takes his responsibilities as a father seriously. He likes to joke about how his kids are driving him crazy (there’ often video or pictures of his kids doing nutty things and they ARE hilarious), but he pours into them and you can see this when you interact with them. Don is great when it comes to consulting God’s Word to look for wisdom in handling a certain situation and he’s been an invaluable source of help for folks who are going through trials.
There’s so much more, but that’s all for now. I’m very thankful to have Don as a partner and a friend.