On this episode of Leadership LevelUp, Jeff Williamson sits down with Demetri Morris, the dynamic founder and CEO of the Nashville-based company, MORR®. This engaging conversation traces Demetri’s inspiring journey from a young entrepreneur to a successful business leader. At 18, Demetri began his company and has since grown it into a notable enterprise working with high-profile clients like Uber, Chick-fil-A, Adidas, and US Foods.

Jeff and Demetri pull back the curtain on MORR®’s unique approach to business. Focusing on the importance of humanizing brands, Demetri explains why building trust and delivering genuine value are paramount in today’s market. Bucket that advice firmly into your “must-remember” list because this perspective might just reshape how you think about client relationships.

Tune in to learn how Demetri’s church involvement and early experiences in Chicago set the groundwork for his professional life. He shares how pivotal moments, like helping his church’s music ministry go viral with the song “Make Room,” spurred him to believe in his capabilities and invest in his career as a creative entrepreneur.

Another standout discussion dives into the strategic playbooks Demetri and his team create for their clients. By deeply understanding a company’s needs and fostering authentic relationships, Morr aids businesses in transforming their approach and better connecting with customers.

Moreover, Demetri touches on the influence of his grandfather and cousin, who steered him towards studying Management Information Systems. Their mentorship played a crucial role in guiding his academic and professional journey.

One particularly valuable segment is the emphasis on the lifetime value of a client. Demetri illustrates how simple gestures, like sending unexpected gift boxes or catering meals for clients, can strengthen relationships and drive repeat business.

This episode is a masterclass in entrepreneurial thought leadership, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills or grow their business in a human-centric way.

Be sure to subscribe to Leadership Level Up so you don’t miss future conversations with great leaders! If you’re interested in learning more about executive coaching and team development, reach out today!

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Meet The Guest

Demetri Morris built his career through the foundational support of his community, particularly his church, where he was inspired by successful business professionals. By seeking advice over coffee, Morris absorbed wisdom on business practices and self-improvement, which fueled his ambitions. His journey began with a chance opportunity to create a promotional video for a tennis league, despite not owning any video production equipment at the time. This initial project marked the start of his burgeoning career in video production, illustrating his resourcefulness and determination.

About the Leadership LevelUp Podcast

Being a boss and a leader are very different. A boss tells you what to do and a leader partners with you in the process. Jeff, being a leader of leaders, has a vast knowledge of best practices and exercises to discover leadership traits. Brian shares stories with Jeff about the ups and downs of his leadership quest while talking to business and community leaders to discuss their personal leadership journey. Who influenced them? What do they do when they have a bad day? What gives them inspiration? Do french fries or tacos or ice cream make them feel better after a bad day? Through laughter and casual conversation, Brian and Jeff explore all aspects of good leadership.

Meet The Host

Dr. Jeff Williamson

Dr. Jeff Williamson is the Founder of Converge Group Inc. an executive coaching and people development practice. Prior to launching his business in 2017, he was a Dean, Executive Director, and Professor of Organizational Leadership serving in higher education for over 30 years.

He holds a bachelor’s, and master’s degree in Speech Communication, and a Doctor of Education degree (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership and was a post-doctoral student at The Ohio State University, Fisher College of Business. He is the host of “Leadership LevelUp” podcast and is also a Gallup-certified Strengths Coach.

He regularly teaches and speaks to business and industry on topics such as: Personal Leadership, Leadership Paradigms, Leading Change, Discover Your Strengths, Building a Strengths-Based Organization, Coaching, Mentoring & Conflict Resolution.

Show Sponsor

Pathfinder: A full-service creative & marketing agency with a mission to provide strategic storytelling to our clients. There is no greater impact in this world than a story. Storytelling is how we learn, remember, and feel. The world has used storytelling since the beginning of time to entertain, teach, inspire, and innovate. Pathfinder’s mission is to provide strategic storytelling for our clients. How? Through inventive business services and pioneering campaigns that help organizations find their own path and carry out their vision.