How a dishwasher became a legendary leader, and why vision, systems, and everyday dignity still win
I’ve wanted Ari Weinzweig on the show for a long time. If you don’t know Ari, he co-founded Zingerman’s in Ann Arbor and helped grow a single deli into a whole community of businesses including a bakehouse, coffee shop, candy store, ZingTrain, and more, without losing soul. That’s rare.
We cover a lot, but here are the big beats, human-sized:
From Dishes to Direction
Ari didn’t plan a career in food. He connected with great people, put in the work, and eventually discovered the power of writing a clear, story-based vision, not just a spreadsheet of goals.
It’s All One Life
Self-awareness isn’t a side project. If you’re pretending to be someone else at work, it shows. The real win is being the same person both on and off the clock.
Systems That Serve People
ZingTrain turned good habits into teachable tools: purposeful meetings, open-book rhythms, and change done with people (Bottom-Line Change).
Business as Art
What if every email, service moment, and decision is a brushstroke? Choose beauty on purpose, especially when it’s easier not to.
Dignity, Daily
Ari shared six practices that make workplace cultures feel different in the best way:
- Honor everyone’s humanity
- Be authentic (without acting out)
- Give people a meaningful say
- Start from positive beliefs
- Help folks reach their version of greatness (within your values)
- Work toward equity: pay, information, access, and support
Why This Matters Right Now
Uncertain times tempt leaders to tighten fists and shrink vision. Ari argues the opposite: tell a vivid story of where you’re going, build simple systems that help people win, and practice dignity, especially when you’re tired. That combination scales culture without hollowing it out.
“Vision is a story of the future you want to create, done from the heart, not just from a momentary strategic analysis.”
Links & resources
- Listen to Episode #66 with Ari Weinzweig
- Zingerman’s Community of Businesses (deli, bakehouse, creamery, mail order, coffee, Roadhouse, candy, Cornman Farms, Miss Kim, food tours)
- ZingTrain training: visioning, service, open-book habits, Bottom-Line Change
- Ari’s books & pamphlets: A Lapsed Anarchist’s Guide series; The Art of Business; A Revolution of Dignity; Life Lessons I Learned from Being a Line Cook
Try it this week
- Write a 2-page “future story” for December 2026. Plain language. How will it feel when you’re there?
- Run one meeting with a crisp agenda, roles, timeboxes, and next steps.
- Pick one of Ari’s dignity practices and use it when you’re rushed or annoyed.
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Until next time, friends,
Chris
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