Meet Andy Gutman | Businessman, father, author, songwriter, dreamer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Andy Gutman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andy, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Our company has championed the concept of work-life balance long before it gained widespread popularity. Approximately 15 years ago, we embarked on a journey towards fostering trust-based relationships with our employees. Instead of monitoring the clock, we shifted our focus to productivity. We encouraged our team members not to miss significant life events and assured them that unforeseen delays, like traffic, were not a cause for concern.

Our commitment to treating employees as valued individuals, not just numbers, has allowed us to attract and retain top-notch talent. We believe that caring for our team on a personal level creates a more fulfilling work environment.

In my own life, I’ve discovered the importance of work-life integration. While I used to advocate for a strict separation between work and personal life, the demands of our 24-hour world blurred those boundaries. This initially caused stress until I realized that by embracing the integration of work and life, I could find greater peace. Recognizing that these aspects intersect and contribute to a wonderful and full life has been a transformative perspective.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What truly characterizes me is the integration of a business-oriented mindset with a creative flair. It took me a considerable amount of time to recognize the inherent value in embracing the duality of my identity. Initially, I believed that entering the business world meant leaving behind the aspects that defined me as a unique thinker. However, I’ve come to appreciate and cherish the fact that I can fully embrace all facets of myself in my daily life. The ability to unite these different elements is something I cherish, as it allows me to be a more complete and authentic version of myself.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

As somewhat of an introvert, you won’t often spot me at the typical social hotspots. However, when it comes to my favorite places to eat in Metro Detroit, you’ll likely find me in the bar booth at Bigalora or Bacco in Franklin, enjoying the ambiance of the Apparatus Room in the Foundation Hotel, or savoring the flavors at Siam Spicy in Farmington Hills. Outside of work, I dedicate my time to my daughter and my dog, or you might catch me at home, utilizing my free time to craft song lyrics or write books.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I strongly believe that there’s always something to be gleaned from everyone we encounter, even if the lesson learned is occasionally a lesson in what not to do. Throughout my life, I’ve been fortunate to be surrounded by mentors. My parents instilled in me the values of hard work, ethics, and integrity. My brother, Ken Gutman, is not only my best friend but also stands as a shining example of a great leader and a role model.

I am grateful to the incredible individuals at the Farbman Group. Working alongside and knowing some of the finest people in the world, from the Farbman family to every employee, has been a remarkable experience. Lastly, inspiration has found me through the works of poets, musicians, writers, and artists. Whether it’s the artistry of Prince, the brushstrokes of Monet, or the wisdom of Patrick Lencioni, I draw inspiration from a diverse range of sources.

Website: www.farbman.com

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/andy-gutman-4719a64 Website

Image Credits
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