Jay Graves

Jay Graves – How EO Nashville Became the Largest Chapter in the US

Jay Graves is the Co-CEO of Blueprint.Inc, where he leads operations and technology for the StyleBlueprint platform. With over 25 years of experience in data-driven businesses, he co-founded and sold SmartDM and SSB, which focused on data warehousing, digital marketing, and technology operations. With these companies, Jay generated value for clients, including the NBA, the NFL, and NASCAR.

Here's a Glimpse of What You'll Learn

[2:04] Jay Graves shares his EO journey, including why he left and rejoined the organization
[7:04] How working with his wife and becoming the next EO Nashville President has shaped Jay’s personal and professional growth
[9:58] EO Nashville’s rise to the largest chapter in the US
[13:20] Jay’s vision for EO Nashville and how a leadership trip to Charlotte influenced it
[22:02] EO Nashville’s economic impact, values, and opportunities for local business collaboration
[28:30] An overview of EO Nashville’s three-year strategic plan
[33:50] The decisions Jay may make as a new EO President and his interpretation of the EO experience

In This Episode

What makes a thriving entrepreneurial community, and how can leaders build one that lasts? Behind every successful network of business owners lies a foundation of trust, shared experience, and strategic vision. How can a local organization scale those values while staying true to its roots?

According to EO Nashville’s incoming President, Jay Graves, entrepreneurial communities can scale through trust, consistency, and intentional outreach. He emphasizes the importance of building a solid community within EO and beyond. To build organizational momentum, Jay suggests engaging in strategic planning, honoring the legacy without disrupting stability, and leveraging shared experiences to foster deeper member engagement.

In this week’s episode of The Decision, Robert Hartline welcomes Jay Graves, CEO of Blueprint.Inc, back to the show to discuss his plans for his upcoming EO Nashville presidency. Jay talks about EO Nashville’s economic ecosystem, the value of member forums, and how local collaboration drives growth.

Quotable Moments:

“Knowing people and connecting with people is how communities are formed.”
“We do it from our heart, and we do it voluntarily; we don’t do it because we’re told.”
“The time is way more valuable than the money; I want them to be able to see that.”
“Business ownership is lonely, and EO can help provide that support for someone running and growing a business.”
“My least favorite time and my most favorite time of EO… was how we were all there for each other during COVID.”

Action Steps:

Engage consistently with your entrepreneurial community: Building strong relationships with other business owners fosters shared learning, support, and growth. These connections can be crucial during times of crisis and opportunity.
Participate in peer forums or mastermind groups: Structured peer interactions offer emotional support and practical advice from others who understand entrepreneurial challenges. These groups help reduce isolation and improve decision-making.
Develop a long-term strategic plan: A multi-year vision ensures continuity, stability, and alignment across leadership changes within your organization. It provides a roadmap to guide decision-making and growth.
Prioritize local business collaboration: Supporting and sourcing from fellow local entrepreneurs strengthens the regional economy and deepens community ties. This approach can also uncover new partnerships and shared opportunities.
Invest in leadership development and learning: Programs like public speaking workshops can enhance communication and influence. Continuous learning fuels personal growth and prepares leaders to serve their teams and communities better.