A New Chapter for Myself and USANA

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Today, I am sharing news that has filled me with many emotions—excitement, confidence, some nostalgia, and, most of all, deep gratitude. On July 1, 2023, I will transition to the role of executive chairman of USANA, and our current president, Jim Brown, will be named CEO and begin reporting directly to the Board of Directors.

Our executive leadership team, the board, and I have planned for this transition for many years, and the time is right. The board and I are confident in Jim’s experience, abilities, and preparation to lead USANA into its next chapter of growth. He has served as president of the company for the last six years, and previously oversaw our global operations and manufacturing.

His unique experience has given him an unwavering commitment to our Associates and the high-quality products they represent. Having worked closely with Jim for more than 15 years, I have learned and benefitted from his extraordinary dedication, judgment, and passion for USANA’s business and mission. I am truly grateful for Jim’s friendship and for his willingness to step into this role.

Although my decision is bittersweet, I’m excited for my new role as executive chairman. I can leave behind the demands of day-to-day leadership but continue to be deeply involved in advancing the company’s strategy and mission. I will still attend many USANA events and be part of regular executive strategy meetings and, of course, continue in my leadership role with the board. I feel fortunate for the opportunity to extend my tenure with USANA while having more time for the activities I love. (More time playing music and adventures with my wife, Lori, and our grandkids are at the top of the list.)

I love USANA and all it stands for—and I love the people of USANA even more. I want to express my tremendous appreciation for you and every one of our Associates around the world. Thank you for your tireless efforts in making USANA one of the foremost leaders in health and wellness. Thank you for thousands of meaningful conversations and shared laughs along the way. Thank you for supporting this next step and for seizing the many opportunities that lie ahead for our company.

7 Ways Music Can Positively Influence Your Life

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Music is medicine for the soul, and this is the perfect time to celebrate music icons and the influence music has on us. Few things have the power to promote harmony, peace, and unity among people everywhere as does music.

Feb. 3 marks “The Day the Music Died.” It’s a day to celebrate the power of music and the icons that have influenced us. In doing so, here’s a list of 30 songs that mean a lot to me.

Music as a Positive Influence

7 Ways Music Can Lift You UpHere are seven ways music can positively influence people across the world.

1. Creates Positive Vibes

  • Playing music in the workplace can create a more positive atmosphere, which can help to improve morale and productivity.

2. Reduces Stress

  • Music has been shown to reduce stress levels and help people relax, which can lead to increased productivity. Sweden’s University of Gothenburg study found that listening to music helps lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.

3. Improves Memory

  • Studies have also shown that music can improve memory and help people to remember tasks more easily.

4. Increases Focus

  • For many, music helps to increase focus and concentration, which brings improved productivity in the workplace.

5. Enhances Creativity

  • One of my favorite things about the power of music is that it can stimulate creativity and help people think outside the box, which generates more innovative solutions.

6. Boosts Motivation

  • Increased focus (see above) can also motivate people and encourage them to work harder and more effectively.

7. Promotes Teamwork

  • Tunes can also help to promote teamwork and encourage collaboration, leading to better results.

Additional Benefits

Moreover, music has the power to promote peace, break down barriers between people of different cultures, and be a powerful force for good in the world.

As I travel, I see that music is a universal language everyone can understand. For example, our band has played songs from the Beatles, Toto, Doobie Brothers, Boston, and more. It’s wonderful to see people singing, smiling, and dancing, whether we’re playing in Mexico, Europe, the United States, China, or Korea.

As many of you know, I gained a love for music from my parents, who bought a piano before they bought a car.

My dad returned from the war, married my mom, and bought a beautiful piano before buying a car because they valued music that much. In those early days of marriage without a car, my dad rode his bike to work and took my mom on the back of his bicycle on trips to the store.

Some people couldn’t understand it. My parents didn’t have a car, but they had a beautiful piano. Music was that important to them — essential, actually.

I shared these thoughts and more in a news release that went out on Feb. 1, 2023, in honor of The Day the Music Died, which is commemorated each Feb. 3. All the Right Reasons: 12 Timeless Principles for Living a Life in Harmony is available on Amazon. All proceeds feed hungry children, with each book purchase providing 40 meals.