08/26/2026
There was a time when a man's character in business wasn't measured only by the deals he made, the money he earned, or the people he knew. It was also measured by what he was willing to tolerate in his presence.
Recently, I witnessed something that has caused me to think seriously about loyalty, leadership, and professional respect.
When a woman walks into your establishment—whether she is a client, vendor, colleague, consultant, or simply a guest—she should not have to defend herself against a man who becomes verbally aggressive, disrespectful, or abusive while other men stand silently by.
This isn't about women being incapable of defending themselves. Believe me, many of us can.
It's about character.
If someone disrespects a professional woman in your place of business and you witness it, silence sends a message.
And when that same person's conduct is later overlooked, rewarded, or even given another professional opportunity, that sends an even stronger message.
Business relationships aren't only about transactions. They are built on trust, loyalty, respect, and integrity.
I still believe there are men who will say, "You will not speak to her that way in my establishment."
Not because a woman is weak.
Not because she needs rescuing.
But because a man of character does not sit comfortably while someone is being disrespected in his presence.
Leadership is revealed in the moments when speaking up might be inconvenient.
And sometimes the people you choose to reward tell others far more about your values than anything you could ever say about them.
Respect matters. Loyalty matters. Character matters. And in business, who you choose to stand beside matters too.
