Forbes TeamBrandon Peña, the founder and CEO of 787 Coffee, has garnered significant attention for his remarkable success in the coffee industry. However, his true innovation lies not just in business strategy but in his groundbreaking approach to leadership. Through his Infinity Leadership Methodology, Brandon has cultivated a new generation of leadership within his company—one that has fueled 787 Coffee’s rapid expansion while maintaining a culture of empowerment and sustainable growth. This methodology is not merely about managing people; it’s about developing leaders who inspire others to lead, creating a ripple effect that fosters excellence across the organization.
Brandon’s leadership philosophy is grounded in the belief that true leadership is not about control but about influence. Rather than creating a hierarchy where one leader oversees every aspect of the organization, his model focuses on training a select few to become mentors themselves. These individuals, equipped with the necessary skills and emotional intelligence, are responsible not only for leading but also for nurturing leadership potential in others. This creates a continuous cycle of development, where leadership is perpetually evolving, allowing each leader to have an exponential impact on those around them.
At the core of this methodology is the principle of the “Power of 8.” Brandon selects eight individuals to mentor closely, providing them with in-depth training in leadership, emotional intelligence, and team-building techniques. These eight individuals are then responsible for mentoring another group of eight, creating a network of leaders who carry forward the torch of innovation and growth. By prioritizing quality over quantity, the Infinity Leadership Methodology ensures that each leader is thoroughly prepared to empower others, rather than merely overseeing tasks.
This leadership model has played a pivotal role in 787 Coffee’s growth from a single coffee farm to a thriving business with over 30 coffee locations. As the company continues to expand, Brandon’s leadership methodology remains the driving force behind its success. By ensuring that each new leader is equipped not only with technical skills but also with the tools to inspire and develop others, Brandon has established a sustainable growth model that can continue indefinitely.
One of the most valuable lessons to be learned from Brandon’s leadership approach is the importance of developing leaders who, in turn, develop others. In the traditional leadership model, power often remains concentrated at the top of the pyramid, with one leader overseeing the entire organization. But in Brandon’s system, leadership is decentralized. Every leader within the company, regardless of their role, is seen as both a mentor and a leader in their own right. This approach not only increases engagement and motivation but also fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among the team.
Another key lesson from Brandon’s approach is the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership. By emphasizing the human side of leadership—understanding others’ emotions, communicating effectively, and building strong relationships—Brandon’s leadership model creates a company culture in which employees feel valued and supported. This emotional intelligence leads to better decision-making, enhanced team collaboration, and a deeper sense of loyalty to the company’s mission and values.
Perhaps most importantly, Brandon’s leadership methodology encourages leaders to focus on influence rather than control. Rather than relying on authority or strict management, Brandon’s leaders are taught to inspire and positively impact those around them. This results in teams that are not only more engaged but also empowered to take initiative and contribute creatively to the company’s success. By emphasizing the power of influence over control, Brandon has fostered an environment where innovation thrives, and employees feel motivated to bring their best selves to work every day.
Through his Infinity Leadership Methodology, Brandon Peña has demonstrated that true leadership is about much more than managing an organization or achieving financial success. It’s about creating a legacy of leaders who empower others, build strong relationships, and cultivate an environment where creativity and growth can flourish. As 787 Coffee continues to expand, this leadership methodology will undoubtedly remain a driving force behind its success, inspiring countless others to embrace a leadership model that values influence, mentorship, and lasting impact.
