Success doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a culmination of discipline, vision, and resilience. And no one embodies that better than Antonio McBroom. From his humble beginnings in rural North Carolina to becoming the youngest-ever Ben & Jerry’s franchise owner, Antonio’s journey is a testament to the power of self-awareness, strategic decision-making, and servant leadership. In this episode of the Second Chance Podcast, host Jeff Robertson dives into the story of a man who turned his dreams into a reality—not just for himself, but for his entire community.
From Small-Town Roots to Business Success
Growing up in a no-stoplight town in North Carolina, Antonio didn’t have the luxuries many take for granted. Raised by strong women—his mother, godmother, and meemaw—he learned early on the values of hard work, perseverance, and vision. He carried water from a neighbor’s house, chopped wood to heat their home, and dreamed of a future where he could change not just his life but the lives of those around him. That vision led him to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he earned a prestigious Morehead-Cain Scholarship, opening doors to opportunities he once thought were beyond reach.
The Power of a Morning Routine
One of the key takeaways from Antonio’s success story is his commitment to self-improvement. Every morning, he follows the SAVERS routine—Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, and Scribing. This practice, which he credits with keeping him grounded and focused, allows him to align his actions with his long-term goals. Whether it’s taking time for gratitude, engaging in visualization exercises, or setting clear priorities for the day, Antonio ensures that he’s operating at his highest level before serving others.
Building a Business That Reflects His Values
Antonio didn’t just want to own a business—he wanted to build a company that stood for something. Inspired by Ben & Jerry’s social mission, he became a franchise owner just two days before graduating college. From that moment, he focused on scaling his business while maintaining a strong emphasis on community impact. Today, through his company, Primo Partners, he leads a multi-unit, multi-brand organization operating Ben & Jerry’s and Starbucks locations across the Southeast, from Washington, D.C., to Houston, Texas.
The Self•ish Servant Philosophy
At the heart of Antonio’s leadership style is a concept he calls being a self•ish servant. It’s a powerful reframe of the word selfish, which often carries negative connotations. Instead, Antonio argues that before you can effectively serve others, you must first invest in yourself. That means prioritizing self-awareness, self-improvement, and self-confidence. His new book, The Selfish Servant: Inspirational Lessons from a Visionary CEO to Create an Extra•Ordinary Life, encapsulates these lessons, offering a roadmap for anyone looking to take control of their future.
Breaking Generational Curses & Leaving a Legacy
One of the most powerful parts of Antonio’s story is his commitment to breaking generational curses. From ensuring his grandmother had running water in her home to teaching his daughter about their family’s journey, Antonio understands the importance of financial literacy, ownership, and long-term impact. He recognizes that success is not just about personal gain but about creating opportunities for those who come after him.
Takeaways for Entrepreneurs and Leaders
Antonio’s journey is full of valuable lessons for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone looking for a second chance at success:
- Own Your Morning: A structured routine sets the tone for the day.
- Invest in Yourself First: You can’t pour into others if your own cup is empty.
- Think Bigger Than Yourself: Success isn’t just personal—it’s communal.
- Be Willing to Take Risks: Sometimes, the best opportunities come from taking the unexpected path.
- Give Back: True leadership is about lifting others as you climb.
Where to Find Antonio’s Book & Connect with Him
If Antonio’s story resonates with you, be sure to check out his new book, The Selfish Servant, available here. He is also available for keynote speaking and professional coaching, where he helps high-performers master leadership, business, and life balance.
Final Thoughts
Antonio McBroom’s story is more than just an entrepreneurial success—it’s a blueprint for creating an extraordinary life through vision, discipline, and service. His journey reminds us that no matter where we start, the choices we make today determine the future we build. Tune in to this inspiring episode of the Second Chance Podcast and discover how you, too, can take control of your destiny.
