Inspirational Leadership: The Story Behind Febreze Odor Eliminator

So I blog for many reasons—It is my hobby, a creative outlet (I’ve been writing books, articles, magazines, journals, since I was 7 or 8 years old and have always loved fashion, design, and photography!), a little side hustle that brings free items, great experiences, and extra money. But one thing I’ve discovered about blogging is that it also introduces me to great people, products, and companies.

When I applied and was invited to promote Febreze Odor Eliminator, my main line of reasoning was that it was a way for me to keep my clothes smelling clean and fresh—especially since I abuse some items due to my heavy workouts and house projects. My tag line for my Instagram post even was—”I may be a girly fashionista, but if you all know me, I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty to accomplish my goals. From intense workouts, house renovations where I’m covered with drywall dust, pieces of old wallpaper, and disintegrated carpet padding, to working in my yard and garden with soil, manure, and mulch, some of my stuff takes quite a beating. I definitely needed it this weekend after tearing out 30 year old carpeting! That’s why I rely on Febreze Odor Eliminator for my clothes!”

As with any product I promote, I find out more about the item and the company to share with consumers. I am honest—I never promote or tout a company or product that I do not admire, like, or use. I’ve always liked Febreze and just assumed it was a Proctor & Gamble product. Although it is by P&G, it is manufactured by Nehemiah Manufacturing, a Christian-based company in Cincinnati, Ohio who is considered a second-chance company. After reading more about this company, I found it embodied the principles I live by on a daily basis and was even more proud to promote Febreze.

Nehemiah Manufacturing works to hire individuals who are in need of second chances. They may have criminal pasts, a spotty work history, or no work history. Many have been incarcerated or have had experiences with drug usage or crimes. They have potential but are often looked past by other companies. Nehemiah Manufacturing is a place to build work experience and start their life over in so many ways. People have had life-changing experiences due to Nehemiah Manufacturing and many of the other great social agencies they worked with in the Cincinnati area. In addition to starting a foundation with work, they also have had life changing experiences due to the work environment and the promotion of God’s love.

Nehemiah was a prophet in the Bible (Old Testament) with a book under his same name (when I was in elementary school, we did a full year study on Nehemiah in 5th grade!). In the book of Nehemiah, he leads the way of bringing safety, commerce, and community back to the city of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile. Nehemiah was called by God to bring the citizens together to rebuild the wall, and ultimately the city, of Jerusalem. In the spirit of Nehemiah, Nehemiah Manufacturing wants to rebuild the city of Cincinnati, as well of the lives of others, through their work.

I was so moved by the employee testimonies, where you can find stories of redemption, faith, and hope. Check them out here. My favorite testimony is that of Stephanie. Many of these individuals have gone to increase their education and/or skill set while even advancing in their role at Nehemiah. Nehemiah Manufacturing is the ultimate example of Servant Leadership. They create a rehabilitative environment and positive work climate that also creates great quality products while STILL making a profit. A five year study of the company showed that over the course of five years, all employees were still working there with the exception of ONE. That is a true testament to their leadership. I would love to learn more about this company, their leadership, and maybe even visit one day!

If you are interested in supporting Nehemiah Manufacturing, one way you can is through the purchase of their products. In addition to Febreze Odor Eliminator, they also produce a variety of other products, including the Downy Ball (which I’m definitely purchasing soon!), Downy Wrinkle Releaser, and Dreft (to name a few). They also have some other products for babies and children. You can check out what they are producing here.

I was so excited about this company’s mission and their leadership style, that I HAD to write a quick post about it. I love learning about positive leadership and work climates. It is a inspiration and challenge to me to continue to try to lead with keeping my life foundation as a basis and make positive changes in my staff’s lives—professionally or personally.