Living Life with Honorable Intentions: Human Connection in a Technologic...

Your host, Brad Hunter, talks with the President and CEO of Costa Rica's Call Center, Richard Blank. Born and raised near Philadelphia, Richard's story began at Abington High School, where he graduated in 1991. Unlike many of his peers who pursued conventional medical, law, or engineering paths, Richard followed his passion for the Spanish language. This decision led him to the University of Arizona, where he majored in Spanish and fully immersed himself in the culture by spending a year abroad in Spain. Richard reminisced about his transformative year, splitting his time between Cadiz, Madrid, and Sevilla. He described it as shedding his skin, a hero's journey that changed him profoundly. Without the distractions of television or phones, he soaked in life through museums, books, and personal interactions. This experience not only solidified his command of the Spanish language but also shaped his worldview and future career trajectory. Richard's life in Costa Rica is where he established a call center that stands out for its operational excellence and vibrant work culture. Richard shared his approach to training and employee engagement, emphasizing the significance of treating his team with dignity. He believes in creating a fun and engaging environment, which includes incorporating his passion for retro arcade games into the workplace. This gamification strategy fosters a sense of community and enjoyment, contributing to employee loyalty and the overall success of the business.