057: Doug Wing | Inspiring Change Through Generosity
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Welcome to the "Go Big to Give Big" podcast with Randy Molland and Steve Arneson! In this episode, we discuss the inspiring power of giving with Doug Wing. Doug has over 40 years of experience in manufacturing, operations, sales, sales leadership, and executive management. He was a Co-owner and Vice Chairman at Little Giant Ladder Systems, helping grow the company to become the 3rd largest ladder company worldwide with over $200 million in annual sales revenue. In his last 5 years at Little Giant, he oversaw the cable and telecom industry, generating over $150 million in sales. With 45 years of service alongside family members, Doug retired in 2019 and co-founded Boar Investment Group in 2020, focusing on multi-family real estate and property management. He is also an active board member of The Honoring Heroes Foundation, supporting fallen police officers and their families. In addition, Doug has completed two missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. With his wife and two daughters. In this episode, Doug shares his story of how his father, Hal Wing, built Little Giant Ladders into a multi-million-dollar company that is renowned for its company culture. Doug, and his brother, took the reins after their father's passing and continue to build on the success of their father's unique combination of product innovation and human connection. Doug discusses how his father taught them the values of quality, truthfulness, integrity, and ethics, which he has carried into his own life. We learn about Ryan, an employee Hal saw potential in and groomed for success who eventually moved on to investing in multi-family housing and real estate with his friend as well as starting his own business. Doug talks about having meaningful relationships, taking risks, and giving back - something that was instilled in him by his parents. He also shares stories of generosity, including donating two classic vehicles in an auction that raised $120,000 for scholarships.   [00:00 - 14:52] Little Giant Steps: Doug’s Journey into Success • Doug Wing and his family created the company Little Giant Ladders, which has achieved over 200 million a year in revenue. • Doug is now a big philanthropist, speaking in schools and giving away books and sitting on boards of nonprofits. • Doug's dad, Hal Wing, was a great salesman who discovered the prototype of the Little Giant Ladder in Germany. • Doug's dad had a huge heart and cared deeply for people, showing genuine interest in them. [14:52 - 37:16] A Mentor Who Led by Example • Doug shares the stories that made Hal, his dad, the mentor and leading example in his life, and why he was the person who changed this life. • Hal had Doug and his brother learn every aspect of the company to prepare them for taking over the business. • Doug’s dad's core principles included selling with truth, integrity, and ethical honesty • Hal was gifted at seeing people's potential and placing them in the right roles.  [37:16 – 42:40] New Paths and New Horizons • Doug and his brother sold the company due to a lack of interest from their sons. Then, got involved in multi-family housing before leaving Little Giant. • After selling Little Giant, he started a new company with his friend and partnered with multiple businesses such as ax throwing, escape keep, and a restaurant. • Doug shares his favorite giving moments and why giving is crucial in his life. [42:40 – 49:09] Quick Questions • What's your favorite thing about speaking to schools?: • Doug's favorite part of speaking to schools is inspiring students by boosting their confidence and self-belief. He advises them to pursue their passions and find meaningful work, emphasizing the joy that comes from doing what they love. • What would get you more excited? Donating a $1 million check or spending a week physically helping others: A week physically helping others. • Who inspires you with their giving? Jon Huntsman Jr. • What
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