Some people are die-hard fans of the CNBC show The Profit, and for good reason. The program features self-made millionaire and entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis, who steps in to help struggling small businesses by investing his own money, expertise, and time. But more than that, the show highlights Lemonis’ belief that people are the heart of every successful company. He doesn’t just look at profits and losses—he looks at the human beings behind the business.

One of the core philosophies Marcus stands by is treating employees with fairness, respect, and compassion. He believes that when workers feel appreciated and are treated well, they naturally become more productive, loyal, and motivated. This principle has guided him through countless business turnarounds on the show and remains central to his personal and professional values.

A perfect example of Marcus living out this philosophy can be seen in his visit to the Key West Key Lime Pie Company. There, he met Tami Forbes, the manager who practically ran the entire operation. Tami wasn’t just overseeing the day-to-day logistics—she was doing it all. From managing marketing strategies to stocking the store shelves, she wore every hat imaginable. And yet, despite her tireless work, she was earning only $500 a week.

To make matters even more difficult, Tami was pregnant with her third child and already raising two sets of eight-year-old twins. Life was demanding and exhausting. She worked on her feet nine hours a day at the pie company, and to make ends meet, she held a second job. After a full day of work, she’d come home and jump into full-time mom mode. And with maternity leave looming, she was growing increasingly anxious about how she would keep up with bills while taking care of a newborn.

Marcus was moved by Tami’s situation. He saw a dedicated, hardworking woman doing everything in her power to support her family and keep a struggling business afloat. Recognizing her value, he decided to take action—not just as a businessman, but as a human being.

Before leaving the store, Marcus sat down with Tami and made her an offer that changed her life. “Before you go,” he told her, “I’m going to need your help. You’re going to be our leader here, and I have some things I need to get done. But more importantly, I want to give you some money so you can have some peace of mind.”

With that, he gave Tami a generous financial gift to help her cover expenses during her maternity leave. But he didn’t stop there. Marcus promised her a raise when she returned to work and guaranteed full pay throughout her time off.

Overwhelmed with emotion, Tami shared just how much the gesture meant to her. “Knowing that I make enough money to live on and save money is everything,” she said tearfully. “It’s never been that way for me.”

This kind of compassion is exactly what makes Marcus Lemonis and The Profit stand out. It’s not just about reviving struggling businesses or boosting profits. It’s about creating sustainable, people-first workplaces where individuals like Tami are empowered and appreciated. By investing in Tami, Marcus wasn’t just helping her—he was setting the entire business up for long-term success. A company can’t thrive without a strong foundation, and employees like Tami are that foundation.

But the story didn’t end there. Viewers who watched the episode know that Tami’s journey with Marcus brought even more good fortune. It’s a testament to what can happen when someone in a position of power takes the time to care. Marcus’ support gave Tami not just financial relief but dignity and hope—something she had gone without for far too long.

Stories like this serve as powerful reminders of how companies should treat their employees. It’s not about flashy perks or shallow benefits—it’s about real support when it matters most. When workers are struggling, it’s up to employers and leaders to step up, just like Marcus did. Compassion in the workplace isn’t just good ethics—it’s good business.

So, the next time you’re considering what makes a great leader or a truly successful business, remember Tami’s story. And consider sharing this with others—because more companies need to see the impact of kindness, empathy, and genuine investment in their people.