Recently I spoke with Norm Allgood, who founded Synergis Education, before going on to found Next Phase Education, a consulting firm that empowers higher education institutions to achieve sustainable growth and long-term success. Norm’s journey began in Detroit, growing up in a working-class family and serving in the Army before pursuing higher education as an adult. In this interview, Norm shares insights from his entrepreneurial journey, focusing on community impact and helping people and institutions thrive. He emphasizes purpose over profit, the importance of identifying and mentoring talent, embracing technology like AI as a force multiplier, and pushing through challenges with grit — advice he shares for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a meaningful difference.