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“Life Is About Relationships”: Meet Stetson Tenney, VP of Sales, Simpatico Systems, LLC
As we celebrate entrepreneurs this October, we are honored to feature Stetson Tenney, whose leadership is grounded in faith, family, and lasting relationships.
Tell us about your personal journey.
My journey revolves around sports, family, and faith. My dad always tells me, “Son, it’s not where you start; it’s where you finish.” Those words guided me from an uncoordinated seventh grader who couldn’t jump rope to a Division I scholarship athlete. They have also helped me prioritize being a husband and father and strengthen my relationship with my Creator and Savior, Jesus Christ.
I know where to turn when life is difficult and whom to thank when things are going well. That foundation connects my personal life and professional growth.
My grandfather taught me, “Life is about relationships.” Relationships with coaches, teammates, my wife, children, and God have shaped my leadership and opened doors throughout my career. They have taught me forgiveness, commitment, and the importance of living up to my divine potential.
What pivotal experiences shaped your current path?
Serving a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at 19 changed my life. Learning Spanish and sharing the restored gospel strengthened my testimony and discipline. As an introvert, approaching strangers in another language pushed me beyond my comfort zone. Being bilingual has helped me serve others, advance professionally, and build lasting relationships.
College football taught me to balance academics, athletics, faith, and friendships. As my family’s first college athlete, I quickly learned that the skills that got me there wouldn’t automatically take me further. Failure and disappointment became important teachers. When back surgery ended my football career as a junior, I became an academic mentor to younger athletes to maintain my scholarship.
Meeting my wife, Tori, fulfilled my lifelong hope of becoming a husband and father. Nearly 12 years of marriage and three beautiful daughters have given me purpose. Having my biggest fan beside me and a secure home life has helped me think, create, and grow professionally.
What are the most valuable lessons you’ve learned through your work?
The first six months of anything new have always been the hardest. Every time I have started something in my career, I have considered quitting during that period. Continuing has helped me gain clarity and ultimately find success. I have learned to give myself time to grow before deciding something isn’t for me.
What drives your desire to contribute and make a difference?
My personal mission is to “achieve legendary success through building and maintaining enduring relationships.” I want those around me to succeed, and I want our success to come from what we accomplish together.
What are your highest hopes for democracy to unite, uplift, and inspire?
I hope everyone can experience the opportunities I have enjoyed in the United States. Many have sacrificed for freedoms I sometimes take for granted. My prayer is that people everywhere can worship freely, participate in free elections, live without government oppression, and build independent lives. Everyone deserves the opportunity to pursue who they want to become, regardless of where they live or their circumstances.
How can GlobalMindED support leaders like yourself in achieving your goals and advancing your aspirations?
GlobalMindED has connected me with leaders who selflessly create opportunities for people who haven’t had them. Conversations and relationships within this community have helped me better understand what giving back means. Continuing to bring people together, exchange experiences, and build relationships can help leaders like me turn our aspirations into opportunities for others.
Connect with Stetson Tenney:
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