In this episode of The Intentional Owner, co-hosts Kaustubh Deo and Sam Rosati unpack the concept of personal non-negotiables and what it takes to make business ownership sustainable over the long haul. What begins as a reflection on physical health quickly evolves into a broader conversation about habit formation, time prioritization, and the limits of willpower.

Kaustubh shares his recent experience becoming a certified arborist while leading Blooma Tree Experts. The two reflect on the difference between project-based discipline and long-term personal routines. Together, they explore a healthy operating rhythm for owners who want to stay in the game for years, not just quarters.

They also discuss:

• Why many business owners neglect their physical health despite having time

• The difference between startup energy and long-term operational sustainability

• How habit stacking and decision fatigue shape daily behavior

• Building accountability through competition and peer support

• Designing boundaries around work, family, and wellness

• How ownership allows for time control but requires discipline to use it well

This episode is a candid, tactical look at the intersection of personal growth and business responsibility, perfect for any owner working to align their health, habits, and leadership.

Links:

Kaustubh on Substack - https://bigdealsmallbusiness.substack.com/p/read-me-first

Sam on X - https://x.com/Sam_Rosati

Topics:

(00:00:00 ) - Intro

(00:01:12 ) - Catching up

(00:04:39 ) - Buying businesses where certification is required to operate them

(00:10:45 ) - Personal and Professional Non-Negotiables

(00:14:17 ) - Making physical fitness a priority

(00:29:50 ) - Creating a competition for fitness

(00:34:03 ) - Tactical Tips: What Sam and Kaustubh keep in their golf bags