https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/grody-unprofessional--6251408 

Like everyone, I have worked with and for hundreds of leaders across my career. While some leaders are great, and many are good, the vast majority find themselves tossed into leadership and left to figure it out on their own.  Grody & Unprofessional seeks to share leadership stories harvested from my own experiences and from the experiences of others through approachable and candid conversations with the aim of educating and shaping your leadership journey.  

Grody & Unprofessional episodes will toggle between focused monologue on specific lessons or mindsets I have acquired from my experiences and conversations with other leaders seeking to understand their convictions and strategies for inspiring, motivating, and maybe sometimes cajoling a group into action.  

Grody & Unprofessional is not a memoir, it’s not a forum to gripe or complain about the past or present.  The rules are simple, I aim to convey leadership lessons through storytelling.  If a given story has a hero, we will use proper names, if the story has a villain, a dolt, or if there is the potential for embarrassment, proper names will be removed.  While we do NOT aim to embarrass people or organizations, we do intend to embarrass poor leadership behaviors and mindsets common to many leaders and organizations.   

My experience has been that demand for talented leaders outstrips supply by at least tenfold, Grody & Unprofessional is my feeble attempt to improve supply.  

I hope you will join me as we seek to uncover people, product, and organizational leadership lessons through the musings of a corporate misfit and his friends.      ]]>enManagementCopyright Justin McMenamyhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/f8e5d7aaa0623fa48f9a88012dd98595.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/grody-unprofessional--6251408Mon, 17 Aug 2026 00:31:20 +0000Justin McMenamyJustin McMenamyjustin@grody.ioHello and welcome to Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL, my name is Justin McMenamy, and my mission is to share both profitable and painful leadership lessons I have acquired over a twenty-year career as a misfit in corporate America.    Like everyone, I... 

Like everyone, I have worked with and for hundreds of leaders across my career. While some leaders are great, and many are good, the vast majority find themselves tossed into leadership and left to figure it out on their own.  Grody & Unprofessional seeks to share leadership stories harvested from my own experiences and from the experiences of others through approachable and candid conversations with the aim of educating and shaping your leadership journey.  

Grody & Unprofessional episodes will toggle between focused monologue on specific lessons or mindsets I have acquired from my experiences and conversations with other leaders seeking to understand their convictions and strategies for inspiring, motivating, and maybe sometimes cajoling a group into action.  

Grody & Unprofessional is not a memoir, it’s not a forum to gripe or complain about the past or present.  The rules are simple, I aim to convey leadership lessons through storytelling.  If a given story has a hero, we will use proper names, if the story has a villain, a dolt, or if there is the potential for embarrassment, proper names will be removed.  While we do NOT aim to embarrass people or organizations, we do intend to embarrass poor leadership behaviors and mindsets common to many leaders and organizations.   

My experience has been that demand for talented leaders outstrips supply by at least tenfold, Grody & Unprofessional is my feeble attempt to improve supply.  

I hope you will join me as we seek to uncover people, product, and organizational leadership lessons through the musings of a corporate misfit and his friends.      ]]>false39e41c23-9022-5a7c-b2d0-194e47b0582cepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dumbest-guy-in-all-the-right-rooms-w-michael-kainatsky--74161163
Kainatsky recounts an accidental, fast-rising career from sales to C-level roles, then into recruiting, arguing the hiring ecosystem is broken and candidates, recruiters, hiring managers, and HR are all complicit. He says mass AI-driven applying and AI resume screening create a feedback loop that rewards bots, while many recruiters overcharge for their low-quality advice and placement techniques; he advises using one specialized recruiter with proven outcomes.  

On LinkedIn, he argues the platform isn’t the problem... people are.  He goes on to criticize unverified “experts,” fake content, and engagement obsession, and recommends authenticity, relevancy, and moving conversations off platform. They also discuss quit-vs-grit approaches to difficult decisions, negotiating an honest exit, and concern that AI will displace roles while eroding trust and human connection.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/74161163Thu, 20 Aug 2026 09:06:55 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy interviews Michael Kainatsky, a former corporate leader and recruiter, about leadership lessons, the broken hiring ecosystem, and the proper role of LinkedIn within a healthy professional network.   Kainatsky recounts an...
Kainatsky recounts an accidental, fast-rising career from sales to C-level roles, then into recruiting, arguing the hiring ecosystem is broken and candidates, recruiters, hiring managers, and HR are all complicit. He says mass AI-driven applying and AI resume screening create a feedback loop that rewards bots, while many recruiters overcharge for their low-quality advice and placement techniques; he advises using one specialized recruiter with proven outcomes.  

On LinkedIn, he argues the platform isn’t the problem... people are.  He goes on to criticize unverified “experts,” fake content, and engagement obsession, and recommends authenticity, relevancy, and moving conversations off platform. They also discuss quit-vs-grit approaches to difficult decisions, negotiating an honest exit, and concern that AI will displace roles while eroding trust and human connection.]]>3377leadershiplessons,linkedin,recruiting,youngleadersfalse54fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-art-of-category-creation-w-dale-koch--73332039
They define category creation as starting from a broader, hard-to-spec problem statement where customers often can’t articulate needs, requiring deeper listening (e.g., “five whys”), understanding the value network, and parallel discovery of commercial message, pricing, and engineering feasibility—often needing combined product/engineering roles.  

They emphasize high-fidelity prototypes, in-context customer visits, managing hype with transparent roadmaps, using MVPs, budgeting for post-launch adaptation, choosing the right team, and building a culture that can pivot or kill projects based on ongoing learning.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73332039Thu, 06 Aug 2026 09:00:42 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy interviews Dale Koch, a longtime product developer/manager at Precision Planting, about creating products within new product categories versus iterative “bigger, faster, cheaper” product development projects. Koch recounts being a...
They define category creation as starting from a broader, hard-to-spec problem statement where customers often can’t articulate needs, requiring deeper listening (e.g., “five whys”), understanding the value network, and parallel discovery of commercial message, pricing, and engineering feasibility—often needing combined product/engineering roles.  

They emphasize high-fidelity prototypes, in-context customer visits, managing hype with transparent roadmaps, using MVPs, budgeting for post-launch adaptation, choosing the right team, and building a culture that can pivot or kill projects based on ongoing learning.]]>3417catergorycreation,precisionplanting,productdevelopment,productleadershipfalse53fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/stars-sneetches-w-jim-weber--73048112
They discuss how innovation is fragile as companies scale, drawing on ideas from Clayton Christensen’s “The Innovator’s Dilemma”, Lawrence Miller’s “From Barbarians to Bureaucrat’s”, Ben Rich’s “Skunkworks”, and Simon Sinek’s “Infinite Game,” arguing bureaucracy is a logical outcome and innovation can’t last forever when pitted against principled business logic.  

Justin describes his role at Precision Planting as scaling structure while protecting creativity and culture, not being the “spark plug” but the shepherd who gets ideas from whiteboard to reality. They explore how “fix-it” leaders get constrained to solve problems “the company’s way,” and why engineering leaders must learn the skill of selling ideas to the broader organization.  

Justin shares the lenses through which he hired for innovation, focusing on the “black sheep of the blue chips,” seeking flexible candidates, hobbies showing action/curiosity, and Patrick Lencioni’s “Humble, Hungry, and Smart”.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73048112Thu, 23 Jul 2026 09:00:18 +0000Justin McMenamyJustin McMenamy continues his multi-episode conversation with Jim Weber.  In this portion of the conversation, they tackle topics like leadership, innovation, and hiring in organizations built to create the future rather than optimize the past.  ...
They discuss how innovation is fragile as companies scale, drawing on ideas from Clayton Christensen’s “The Innovator’s Dilemma”, Lawrence Miller’s “From Barbarians to Bureaucrat’s”, Ben Rich’s “Skunkworks”, and Simon Sinek’s “Infinite Game,” arguing bureaucracy is a logical outcome and innovation can’t last forever when pitted against principled business logic.  

Justin describes his role at Precision Planting as scaling structure while protecting creativity and culture, not being the “spark plug” but the shepherd who gets ideas from whiteboard to reality. They explore how “fix-it” leaders get constrained to solve problems “the company’s way,” and why engineering leaders must learn the skill of selling ideas to the broader organization.  

Justin shares the lenses through which he hired for innovation, focusing on the “black sheep of the blue chips,” seeking flexible candidates, hobbies showing action/curiosity, and Patrick Lencioni’s “Humble, Hungry, and Smart”.]]>3018benrich,claytonchristensen,lawrencemiller,patricklencioni,simonsinekfalse52fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/are-leaders-born-or-taught-w-brent-adamson--72839450
When asked if Challengers are born or taught, Adamson argues Challengers are made, not born, noting their research focused on trainable skills, knowledge, and behaviors rather than traits like charisma.  Adamson reframes the key question from “Which profile am I?” to “What do Challenger reps do and how can I model those behaviors?”  

In discussing hiring, Adamson emphasizes distinguishing fully realized Challenger skills from Challenger potential, often found outside traditional sales roles, and prioritizing harder-to-train skills like empathy and logical argumentation over industry experience.  

On COVID, Adamson describes how issues escalated from behavior changes to identity conflicts, amplified by social media, and suggests leaders should deescalate change by focusing on behavior.  

He then explains his more recent work on “FrameMaking”: in a content-saturated, AI-accelerated market, sellers should reduce customer overwhelm by building decision confidence—helping buyers ask the right questions and connecting them to peer experiences—rather than providing more insights or claiming expert authority.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72839450Thu, 09 Jul 2026 09:00:17 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy continues his conversation with Brent Adamson, co-author of “The Challenger Sale” and “The Framemaking Sale”.   When asked if Challengers are born or taught, Adamson argues Challengers are made, not born, noting their research...
When asked if Challengers are born or taught, Adamson argues Challengers are made, not born, noting their research focused on trainable skills, knowledge, and behaviors rather than traits like charisma.  Adamson reframes the key question from “Which profile am I?” to “What do Challenger reps do and how can I model those behaviors?”  

In discussing hiring, Adamson emphasizes distinguishing fully realized Challenger skills from Challenger potential, often found outside traditional sales roles, and prioritizing harder-to-train skills like empathy and logical argumentation over industry experience.  

On COVID, Adamson describes how issues escalated from behavior changes to identity conflicts, amplified by social media, and suggests leaders should deescalate change by focusing on behavior.  

He then explains his more recent work on “FrameMaking”: in a content-saturated, AI-accelerated market, sellers should reduce customer overwhelm by building decision confidence—helping buyers ask the right questions and connecting them to peer experiences—rather than providing more insights or claiming expert authority.]]>2616brentadamson,challengersale,covid,framemaking,leadership,leadertraining,newleaderfalse51fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/be-a-challeger-not-a-jerk-w-brent-adamson--72635012
Justin leads off the conversation by sharing how The Challenger Sale helped codify Precision Planting’s customer-education approach to sales and marketing, highlighting that concepts of the book permeated both the global growth strategy as well as employee recruiting and onboarding.  

Adamson goes on to describe his career transition from Michigan State German professor to sales researcher at CEB, framing his throughline as researching and teaching. They discuss wrestling through career identity uncertainty, relational and professional experimentation as a means of discovering one’s talents, and the mental-health benefits of exercise.  

Adamson explains Challenger as selling “change,” using an A-to-B model where influence requires breaking down the costly “A” (status quo) before building “B,” including spending the time and energy to empathize with others’ perspectives and long held beliefs.  

They define Challenger sellers vs. other seller types, stress adaptability across corporate cultures while also noting that cultural fit issues do exist and can require proactive changes.  The conversation closes by teasing the topics of the second episode of the conversation including Adamson’s more recent work, The Framemaking Sale.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72635012Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:00:17 +0000Justin McMenamyThis is the first of two episodes in which Justin McMenamy interviews Brent Adamson, acclaimed author of The Challenger Sale.    Justin leads off the conversation by sharing how The Challenger Sale helped codify Precision Planting’s...
Justin leads off the conversation by sharing how The Challenger Sale helped codify Precision Planting’s customer-education approach to sales and marketing, highlighting that concepts of the book permeated both the global growth strategy as well as employee recruiting and onboarding.  

Adamson goes on to describe his career transition from Michigan State German professor to sales researcher at CEB, framing his throughline as researching and teaching. They discuss wrestling through career identity uncertainty, relational and professional experimentation as a means of discovering one’s talents, and the mental-health benefits of exercise.  

Adamson explains Challenger as selling “change,” using an A-to-B model where influence requires breaking down the costly “A” (status quo) before building “B,” including spending the time and energy to empathize with others’ perspectives and long held beliefs.  

They define Challenger sellers vs. other seller types, stress adaptability across corporate cultures while also noting that cultural fit issues do exist and can require proactive changes.  The conversation closes by teasing the topics of the second episode of the conversation including Adamson’s more recent work, The Framemaking Sale.]]>2773brentadamson,challengersale,entrepreneurleadershipgrowth,leadershippersonalstories,learninginleadership,menleadershipjourney,startupleadershiplessons,steppingintoleadershipfalse50fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-velvet-hammer-w-jim-weber--72261652
McMenamy credits the book Loonshots by Safi Bahcall and Kelly Johnson’s Skunk Works rules of management, emphasizing the need for executive protection, boundary-layer leaders who can translate between rigid and creative worlds, and small policy differences in HR, IT, legal, and compensation required to enable a phase shift.  

Weber describes “talent tapping” by finding underused internal talent and relying on a protective boss who deflected steering committees, while both note the “career poker” strategy of staying at the table versus climbing.  

They also cover empathy, leaders acting as organizational psychiatrists, and when it can be compassionate to help misfit employees transition out, including the one positive lesson McMenamy cites from Jack Welch: people want to be good at their jobs.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72261652Thu, 11 Jun 2026 09:00:21 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy and guest Jim Weber discuss techniques by which innovative teams can survive inside large bureaucracies.  They discuss the need for the innovative leader to set a different “cultural thermostat,” from the broader organization;...
McMenamy credits the book Loonshots by Safi Bahcall and Kelly Johnson’s Skunk Works rules of management, emphasizing the need for executive protection, boundary-layer leaders who can translate between rigid and creative worlds, and small policy differences in HR, IT, legal, and compensation required to enable a phase shift.  

Weber describes “talent tapping” by finding underused internal talent and relying on a protective boss who deflected steering committees, while both note the “career poker” strategy of staying at the table versus climbing.  

They also cover empathy, leaders acting as organizational psychiatrists, and when it can be compassionate to help misfit employees transition out, including the one positive lesson McMenamy cites from Jack Welch: people want to be good at their jobs.]]>3365beurocracy,ge,jackwelch,loonshots,skunkworksfalse49fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-the-flight-deck-to-the-factory-floor-w-steve-roehrich--72169276
Across the wide-ranging conversation, Roehrich recounts growing up poor in rural Minnesota, joining the Navy as an aviator, traveling the world, studying finance, and navigating the corporate world.  

Roehrich argues that the military is a leadership crucible and defines key attributes of leadership: integrity/authenticity, vision, resilience and adaptability, emotional intelligence, decisiveness, humility, and continuous learning.

He describes the tools by which one can lead organizational changes as influence, trust-building, and giving teams agency rather than using authoritarian control, he then attributes similar principles as keys to his 48-year marriage to Susan.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72169276Thu, 28 May 2026 09:00:17 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy interviews Steve “Roach” Roehrich, a veteran naval aviator, former Fortune 50 Chief Business Improvement Officer, and aerospace manufacturing CEO, about leadership lessons acquired and deployed in military and corporate theatres....
Across the wide-ranging conversation, Roehrich recounts growing up poor in rural Minnesota, joining the Navy as an aviator, traveling the world, studying finance, and navigating the corporate world.  

Roehrich argues that the military is a leadership crucible and defines key attributes of leadership: integrity/authenticity, vision, resilience and adaptability, emotional intelligence, decisiveness, humility, and continuous learning.

He describes the tools by which one can lead organizational changes as influence, trust-building, and giving teams agency rather than using authoritarian control, he then attributes similar principles as keys to his 48-year marriage to Susan.]]>2938avitation,johnsonandjohnson,leadership,navyfalse48fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-you-re-another-brick-in-the-wall-w-leo-salotti--71959399
Across the episode, Leo describes lessons learned after being promoted to leading a team which spanned Argentina and Brazil, including choosing humility by delivering a full leadership presentation in Portuguese and tailoring solutions to Brazilian conditions rather than copying Argentina’s model. They explore moving from engineering to people leadership, emphasizing trust, avoiding micromanagement, and “test-driving” leadership through cross-functional projects.  

Leo recounts starting his career at a large multi-national equipment manufacturer as a formative “school,” then leaving the structure for Precision Planting, driven by a desire for external customer exposure and avoiding the feelings of being “another brick in the wall.”

They discuss balancing structure vs creativity, decentralized vs centralized decision-making, meeting avoidance, financial realities, and how to discern when it’s time to move on using reflection, a “seven hats” framework, and signals like bitterness or health impacts.  

Leo closes with a “La Petit Hotel” story involving storms, a stranded truck, and late night dismantling a gas boiler.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71959399Thu, 14 May 2026 09:00:19 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy welcomes Leo Salotti, co-founder of Terranova, to discuss leadership lessons learned from cross-cultural management and career transitions.    Across the episode, Leo describes lessons learned after being promoted to leading a...
Across the episode, Leo describes lessons learned after being promoted to leading a team which spanned Argentina and Brazil, including choosing humility by delivering a full leadership presentation in Portuguese and tailoring solutions to Brazilian conditions rather than copying Argentina’s model. They explore moving from engineering to people leadership, emphasizing trust, avoiding micromanagement, and “test-driving” leadership through cross-functional projects.  

Leo recounts starting his career at a large multi-national equipment manufacturer as a formative “school,” then leaving the structure for Precision Planting, driven by a desire for external customer exposure and avoiding the feelings of being “another brick in the wall.”

They discuss balancing structure vs creativity, decentralized vs centralized decision-making, meeting avoidance, financial realities, and how to discern when it’s time to move on using reflection, a “seven hats” framework, and signals like bitterness or health impacts.  

Leo closes with a “La Petit Hotel” story involving storms, a stranded truck, and late night dismantling a gas boiler.]]>3252culture,leadershipfalse47fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/don-t-burn-the-boats-w-jim-weber--71659053
This episode covers innovation’s overlap with creativity and art, and how nearly every company markets themselves as innovative, sometimes despite objective evidence to the contrary.  

Justin introduces the “Trellis and Vine” analogy: provide enough structure to support creativity without choking it; warning that well intended leaders can smother innovation through noble pursuits of synergy, globalization, metrics culture, governance, and project rationalization.  

They emphasize a willingness to self-disruption, R&D to customer proximity, market competitors managed as “worthy rivals”, project pipeline prioritization, and competitive prototyping as key ingredients to a company hoping to curate a culture of innovation.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71659053Thu, 30 Apr 2026 09:00:16 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy and Jim Weber continue their conversation on fostering a culture of innovation including methods of preventing it from being killed by pessimism and process.   This episode covers innovation’s overlap with creativity and art, and...
This episode covers innovation’s overlap with creativity and art, and how nearly every company markets themselves as innovative, sometimes despite objective evidence to the contrary.  

Justin introduces the “Trellis and Vine” analogy: provide enough structure to support creativity without choking it; warning that well intended leaders can smother innovation through noble pursuits of synergy, globalization, metrics culture, governance, and project rationalization.  

They emphasize a willingness to self-disruption, R&D to customer proximity, market competitors managed as “worthy rivals”, project pipeline prioritization, and competitive prototyping as key ingredients to a company hoping to curate a culture of innovation.]]>3214corporateculture,culture,innovation,invention,leadershipfalse46fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/serial-entreprenourship-w-danny-kirk--71264529
Kirk shares his unconventional background, raised by academics and musicians, a high-achieving classical trumpet player who dropped out of high school, and his entry into entrepreneurship through a scholarship and a startup weekend that led to his first company.  

Over the last 15 years, Danny has started 5 revenue-generating businesses, pursues 100–200 ideas annually quickly invalidating most of them, and discusses his latest business in GEO (generative engine optimization) for AI.    

Kirk recounts being forced out of a gym business, selling a SaaS venture for scraps due to technical debt and infighting, discusses quit-vs-grit, and the needed priority which should be placed on unit economics within any startup. He explains his marketing approach for small businesses, focus where the “tribe” is, avoid vanity metrics, prioritize revenue, and build trust by disqualifying prospects.  

The conversation also covers Kirk’s recent battle with anxiety following a login prompt attack on his business along with the need for routine to keep him grounded.  Justin reflects on experiences navigating stressful times of life, redefining security and success, and protecting health and relationships as life complexity grows.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71264529Thu, 16 Apr 2026 09:00:17 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy interviews entrepreneur and marketer Danny Kirk.  The conversation spans topics like defining failure and success, the place for pessimism in business, and leadership lessons drawn from the great philosopher Shaquille O’Neal.  ...
Kirk shares his unconventional background, raised by academics and musicians, a high-achieving classical trumpet player who dropped out of high school, and his entry into entrepreneurship through a scholarship and a startup weekend that led to his first company.  

Over the last 15 years, Danny has started 5 revenue-generating businesses, pursues 100–200 ideas annually quickly invalidating most of them, and discusses his latest business in GEO (generative engine optimization) for AI.    

Kirk recounts being forced out of a gym business, selling a SaaS venture for scraps due to technical debt and infighting, discusses quit-vs-grit, and the needed priority which should be placed on unit economics within any startup. He explains his marketing approach for small businesses, focus where the “tribe” is, avoid vanity metrics, prioritize revenue, and build trust by disqualifying prospects.  

The conversation also covers Kirk’s recent battle with anxiety following a login prompt attack on his business along with the need for routine to keep him grounded.  Justin reflects on experiences navigating stressful times of life, redefining security and success, and protecting health and relationships as life complexity grows.]]>3585culture,geo,leadership,marketing,stressfalse45fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-race-to-the-liquid-death-w-andy-pearson--70857503
Through the conversation, Pearson recounts stories, from early in his career, of buying taxidermy squirrels and navigating eBay’s ban on selling human body parts.  

Andy then contrasts the philosophies of various ad agencies and stresses the importance of a shared creative vision and engaged leadership, ideally with “a bone to pick.”  

Pearson describes Liquid Death’s ethos as making entertainment not marketing, critiquing ads as unwanted interruptions, and questioning industry assumptions both in product and marketing. He then describes Liquid Death as a high ownership, iterative, fast-paced culture that starts with the question “what is the dumbest thing we could do?”.   

Finally, Andy shares how his passion for ultra running began amid grueling agency hours and tells of a Strava user who challenged him to a “race to the Death”.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70857503Thu, 02 Apr 2026 09:00:18 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy interviews Andy Pearson, creative director at Liquid Death.   Through the conversation, Pearson recounts stories, from early in his career, of buying taxidermy squirrels and navigating eBay’s ban on selling human body parts.  ...
Through the conversation, Pearson recounts stories, from early in his career, of buying taxidermy squirrels and navigating eBay’s ban on selling human body parts.  

Andy then contrasts the philosophies of various ad agencies and stresses the importance of a shared creative vision and engaged leadership, ideally with “a bone to pick.”  

Pearson describes Liquid Death’s ethos as making entertainment not marketing, critiquing ads as unwanted interruptions, and questioning industry assumptions both in product and marketing. He then describes Liquid Death as a high ownership, iterative, fast-paced culture that starts with the question “what is the dumbest thing we could do?”.   

Finally, Andy shares how his passion for ultra running began amid grueling agency hours and tells of a Strava user who challenged him to a “race to the Death”.]]>3372advertising,leadership,liquiddeath,marketingfalse44fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tapping-organizational-creativity-w-jim-weber--70652548
On the topic of brainstorming both Justin and Jim agree that scheduled brainstorming sessions with idea voting and ranking are mostly unproductive. Jim argues effective brainstorming consists of informal, rapid idea vetting with colleagues who try to break ideas and improve them over time.  He then emphasizes the need to ask everyone, from executives to technicians, “what would you do?” to learn technical and organizational constraints, even at the risk of embarrassment.  

Justin highlights the need to reduce hierarchy, otherwise creativity is often outsourced to an “innovation manager,” as well as the need to separate idea collection events from idea selection so contributors stay encouraged while a smaller group prioritizes. They discuss creativity as an underused organizational asset, and debate when simulation-first approaches are essential versus an “Edisonian” fast iteration methodology enabled by low-cost prototyping.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70652548Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:00:18 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy and guest Jim Weber continue their multi-episode discussion around the many ingredients which comprise a successful culture of innovation.    On the topic of brainstorming both Justin and Jim agree that scheduled brainstorming...
On the topic of brainstorming both Justin and Jim agree that scheduled brainstorming sessions with idea voting and ranking are mostly unproductive. Jim argues effective brainstorming consists of informal, rapid idea vetting with colleagues who try to break ideas and improve them over time.  He then emphasizes the need to ask everyone, from executives to technicians, “what would you do?” to learn technical and organizational constraints, even at the risk of embarrassment.  

Justin highlights the need to reduce hierarchy, otherwise creativity is often outsourced to an “innovation manager,” as well as the need to separate idea collection events from idea selection so contributors stay encouraged while a smaller group prioritizes. They discuss creativity as an underused organizational asset, and debate when simulation-first approaches are essential versus an “Edisonian” fast iteration methodology enabled by low-cost prototyping.]]>3035brainstorming,creativity,culture,innovationfalse43fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hungry-humble-smart-a-culture-without-silos-w-kristen-patty--70364456
Kristen shares why she left a large multinational retailer early in her career for a startup, emphasizing self-discovery, taking the next right step, and seeking actionable feedback. They cover her transition from Sales Operations to head of HR and her focus on mission-driven recruiting. They discuss balancing HR process with situational care, how policy application affects company-wide trust, and practical ways to protect culture while scaling.   

The episode ends with Kristen’s advice for leaders entering new roles, stressing humility, clarity of expectations, honesty about gaps, and building relationships through one-on-one conversations.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70364456Thu, 05 Mar 2026 10:00:19 +0000Justin McMenamyHost Justin McMenamy welcomes Kristen Patty to discuss leadership and HR lessons from their time at Precision Planting during a decade of growth from under 100 employees to over 500, including global expansion across more than 15 countries and the...
Kristen shares why she left a large multinational retailer early in her career for a startup, emphasizing self-discovery, taking the next right step, and seeking actionable feedback. They cover her transition from Sales Operations to head of HR and her focus on mission-driven recruiting. They discuss balancing HR process with situational care, how policy application affects company-wide trust, and practical ways to protect culture while scaling.   

The episode ends with Kristen’s advice for leaders entering new roles, stressing humility, clarity of expectations, honesty about gaps, and building relationships through one-on-one conversations.]]>3111companysilos,corporateculture,leadershipfalse42fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-empathy-w-erin-thorp--70055173
Across the conversation each discusses formative early-career experiences and how they shaped their mid-career focus on leadership. Both reflect on how not fitting within organizational norms can bleed into lowered self-worth, and they discuss a framework of being “refined” versus “consumed” by adversity, emphasizing that not every bad day warrants resignation and that staying in discomfort can build tenacity.  

They explore differences between technical and people skills, contrasting engineering’s black-and-white mindset versus the negotiated nature of relationships.  

Erin describes her path into podcasting: authoring a book in 2016 and later starting the “Tactical Empathy" podcast. Erin explains tactical empathy as a practical leadership tool that balances understanding self and others while maintaining high standards and execution, countering the idea that empathy is a mask for weakness or lowered expectations.  

She offers ways to build empathy as a muscle: frequent self-check-ins, acknowledging feelings, validating others without necessarily agreeing, and resisting the urge to immediately fix problems.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70055173Thu, 19 Feb 2026 10:00:16 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode host Justin McMenamy welcomes fellow leadership podcaster Erin Thorpe.  Across the conversation each discusses formative early-career experiences and how they shaped their mid-career focus on leadership. Both reflect on how not...
Across the conversation each discusses formative early-career experiences and how they shaped their mid-career focus on leadership. Both reflect on how not fitting within organizational norms can bleed into lowered self-worth, and they discuss a framework of being “refined” versus “consumed” by adversity, emphasizing that not every bad day warrants resignation and that staying in discomfort can build tenacity.  

They explore differences between technical and people skills, contrasting engineering’s black-and-white mindset versus the negotiated nature of relationships.  

Erin describes her path into podcasting: authoring a book in 2016 and later starting the “Tactical Empathy" podcast. Erin explains tactical empathy as a practical leadership tool that balances understanding self and others while maintaining high standards and execution, countering the idea that empathy is a mask for weakness or lowered expectations.  

She offers ways to build empathy as a muscle: frequent self-check-ins, acknowledging feelings, validating others without necessarily agreeing, and resisting the urge to immediately fix problems.]]>3468empathy,leadership,tacticalempathyfalse41fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/innovation-easier-said-than-done-w-jim-weber--69646585Innovation: Is It More Than a Feeling?” host Justin McMenamy and Jim Weber explore the concept of innovation. The episode delves into defining the necessary components of innovation, contrasting it with being merely clever or even foolish.  Jim shares his career experiences as an innovator within a Dow 30 organization and discusses his personal take on innovation, including the idea that there are various levels of innovation. The discussion also touches on the reality that innovation can be seen beyond technology and product development.  Justin provides examples from the tech industry, and offers insights from his experience at Precision Planting, particularly on the company's innovative distribution model. The conversation concludes with reflections on how innovation is perceived and executed in different contexts, including manufacturing, marketing, and sales.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69646585Thu, 05 Feb 2026 10:00:14 +0000Justin McMenamyIn the first episode of the mini-series entitled “Innovation: Is It More Than a Feeling?” host Justin McMenamy and Jim Weber explore the concept of innovation. The episode delves into defining the necessary components of innovation, contrasting it...Innovation: Is It More Than a Feeling?” host Justin McMenamy and Jim Weber explore the concept of innovation. The episode delves into defining the necessary components of innovation, contrasting it with being merely clever or even foolish.  Jim shares his career experiences as an innovator within a Dow 30 organization and discusses his personal take on innovation, including the idea that there are various levels of innovation. The discussion also touches on the reality that innovation can be seen beyond technology and product development.  Justin provides examples from the tech industry, and offers insights from his experience at Precision Planting, particularly on the company's innovative distribution model. The conversation concludes with reflections on how innovation is perceived and executed in different contexts, including manufacturing, marketing, and sales.]]>2858agtech,culture,innovationfalse40fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-teams-rebel-talent-resigns-w-caleb-schleder--69462127
They also explore challenges like managing 'comfortable L1s,' handling team dynamics with varying competence levels, and maintaining effective leadership during organizational changes. The episode concludes with a unique twist, examining how Situational Leadership principles can apply to parenting, ultimately comcluding that the aim of both the leader and the parent is to foster autonomy and strong relationships which foster personal growth and maturation.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69462127Thu, 22 Jan 2026 10:00:17 +0000Justin McMenamyThis episode features host Justin McMenamy and guest Caleb Schleder discussing the Situational Leadership model. They delve into the four leadership styles (L1 through L4) and their applications based on employee competence and confidence. The...
They also explore challenges like managing 'comfortable L1s,' handling team dynamics with varying competence levels, and maintaining effective leadership during organizational changes. The episode concludes with a unique twist, examining how Situational Leadership principles can apply to parenting, ultimately comcluding that the aim of both the leader and the parent is to foster autonomy and strong relationships which foster personal growth and maturation.]]>2722corporate,corporateculture,leadership,situationalleadershipfalse39fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/situational-leadership-w-caleb-schleder--69280829
The discussion covers various leadership stages, from Directing (S1) to Delegating (S4), explaining the importance of adjusting strategies based on an employee’s competence and confidence. They also touch on the challenges faced by leaders of leaders and the necessity of maintaining good relationships with employees through these transitions.

The episode concludes with preparation for a follow-up episode to continue the discussion, in which Justin and Caleb will spend time discussing edge cases and real-world examples of utilizing the Situational Leadership framework.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69280829Thu, 08 Jan 2026 10:00:15 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode, host Justin McMenemy is joined by Caleb Schleder to discuss the framework of Situational Leadership. They delve into the importance of tailoring leadership styles to specific situations and the pitfalls of a one-size-fits-all...
The discussion covers various leadership stages, from Directing (S1) to Delegating (S4), explaining the importance of adjusting strategies based on an employee’s competence and confidence. They also touch on the challenges faced by leaders of leaders and the necessity of maintaining good relationships with employees through these transitions.

The episode concludes with preparation for a follow-up episode to continue the discussion, in which Justin and Caleb will spend time discussing edge cases and real-world examples of utilizing the Situational Leadership framework.]]>3113culture,leadership,leadershiptraining,situationalleadershipfalse38fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-spinach-king-w-john-seabrook--69133555
The interview delves into the complex family dynamics, including the strained and ultimately destructive relationship between Charles and his sons, particularly John’s father. John shares insights into the personal and professional challenges his family faced, and how writing the book offered him therapeutic closure. The episode also touches on the broader impact of Seabrook Farms on its employees, including Japanese Americans employed after World War II. John reflects on the mixed legacy and the lasting emotional impacts of his family's business saga.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69133555Thu, 25 Dec 2025 10:00:18 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode, host Justin McMenamy interviews John Seabrook, an author and journalist, about his recent book 'The Spinach King.' The discussion centers on the dual legacies of John’s grandfather, Charles F. Seabrook, a pioneering yet controversial...
The interview delves into the complex family dynamics, including the strained and ultimately destructive relationship between Charles and his sons, particularly John’s father. John shares insights into the personal and professional challenges his family faced, and how writing the book offered him therapeutic closure. The episode also touches on the broader impact of Seabrook Farms on its employees, including Japanese Americans employed after World War II. John reflects on the mixed legacy and the lasting emotional impacts of his family's business saga.]]>3193leadership,spinachkingfalse37fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-challenger-sale-w-bryce-baker--68944600https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68944600Thu, 11 Dec 2025 10:00:25 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode host Justin McMenamy and guest Bryce Baker discuss the evolution of sales strategies, homing in on the Challenger Sale method. With nearly 15 years of experience in sales at Precision Planting, Bryce shares the transition from...3053challengersale,corporateculture,leadership,salesfalse36fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/balancing-life-s-highs-and-lows-w-jeff-snowden--68700191
They also discuss the inherent challenges of managing corporate roles and maintaining personal integrity and family priorities. Jeff shares his experience of having a nervous breakdown in 2021, discussing the pressures of the pandemic and career turmoil, and offers advice on mental health management. Throughout, Jeff provides earnest insights into maintaining balance, the importance of supportive relationships, and finding fulfillment in both professional and personal life.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68700191Thu, 27 Nov 2025 10:00:20 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode Justin and guest Jeff Snowden discuss a variety of topics ranging from leadership lessons, marketing strategies, and personal struggles, both personal and professional.  They delve into Jeff’s background, his career transitions from...
They also discuss the inherent challenges of managing corporate roles and maintaining personal integrity and family priorities. Jeff shares his experience of having a nervous breakdown in 2021, discussing the pressures of the pandemic and career turmoil, and offers advice on mental health management. Throughout, Jeff provides earnest insights into maintaining balance, the importance of supportive relationships, and finding fulfillment in both professional and personal life.]]>3554anxiety,culture,depression,leadership,marketing,mentorsfalse35fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cooking-up-product-development-w-jason-stoller--68499151https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68499151Thu, 13 Nov 2025 10:00:17 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode, Justin McMenamy converses with Jason Stoller about their joint experiences at Precision Planting. The discussion focuses on the distinguishing factors between large corporations and smaller startups in terms of product development...3234corporateculture,leadership,precisionplanting,productdevelopmentfalse34fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/skunk-works-vii-the-bleeping-navy--68303477https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68303477Thu, 30 Oct 2025 09:00:15 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode, Justin McMenamy concludes his examination of Kelly Johnson's 14 Rules of Management with a focus on Johnson's unwritten 15th rule. He explains the intricacies of creating and maintaining a 'Skunk Works' organization within a larger...2254corporateculture,culture,kellyjohnson,leadership,podcast,skunkworksfalse33fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/getting-out-of-the-rut-w-steve-pierz--68032911
Both Justin and Steve delve into the importance of mindset in leadership and innovation, emphasizing that success in business relies heavily on the creative, risk-taking individuals. The conversation evolves into mentorship, highlighting how young innovators should seek their ‘tribe’ and persist through setbacks.  

Steve, now retired, focuses on inspiring, motivating, and supporting the next generation of innovators. The discussion captures lessons learned, insights on navigating corporate America, and advice for future leaders.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68032911Thu, 16 Oct 2025 09:00:17 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode, host Justin McMenamy interviews Steve Pierz, a friend and fellow corporate misfit, who shares his unconventional strategies and experiences from a long, innovative career. Steve recounts his daring approach in large meetings, his...
Both Justin and Steve delve into the importance of mindset in leadership and innovation, emphasizing that success in business relies heavily on the creative, risk-taking individuals. The conversation evolves into mentorship, highlighting how young innovators should seek their ‘tribe’ and persist through setbacks.  

Steve, now retired, focuses on inspiring, motivating, and supporting the next generation of innovators. The discussion captures lessons learned, insights on navigating corporate America, and advice for future leaders.]]>3384corporateculture,leadership,misfitfalse32fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/insurgent-leadership-w-brad-stoller--67926990
The conversation delves into the importance of selecting the right leaders with characteristics such as mission-driven mindset, independence of thought, and adaptability. They discuss how speed and agility are crucial for smaller organizations to succeed, contrasting their approach with larger entities that often rely on rigid processes and alignment.

They highlight historical examples like Stonewall Jackson and David Sterling to illustrate effective strategies for insurgent organizations. Stoller emphasizes that success is measured not by traditional metrics but by the mission's impact, advocating for a customer-centric approach over merely trying to outdo competitors.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67926990Thu, 02 Oct 2025 09:00:18 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL, host Justin McMenamy & Brad Stoller explore the concepts of asymmetric warfare and the infinite games, focusing on how small organizations like Precision Planting can compete against much larger...
The conversation delves into the importance of selecting the right leaders with characteristics such as mission-driven mindset, independence of thought, and adaptability. They discuss how speed and agility are crucial for smaller organizations to succeed, contrasting their approach with larger entities that often rely on rigid processes and alignment.

They highlight historical examples like Stonewall Jackson and David Sterling to illustrate effective strategies for insurgent organizations. Stoller emphasizes that success is measured not by traditional metrics but by the mission's impact, advocating for a customer-centric approach over merely trying to outdo competitors.]]>3598infinitegame,insurgent,leadership,simonsinekfalse31fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-the-weak-win-wars-w-brad-stoller--67766380
The episode highlights key influences like Simon Sinek's 'Infinite Game' and Malcolm Gladwell's 'David and Goliath' as part of their strategic thinking to combat much larger competitors. The conversation transitions to the importance of a distinct, adaptable strategy and concludes by emphasizing the need for both strategic thinking and tactical execution in maintaining market relevance.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67766380Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:00:17 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode, host Justin McMenamy and guest Brad Stoller delve into the history and strategic growth of Precision Planting, an innovative agricultural company from Central Illinois. Founded by a resourceful farmer in 1993, the company prioritized...
The episode highlights key influences like Simon Sinek's 'Infinite Game' and Malcolm Gladwell's 'David and Goliath' as part of their strategic thinking to combat much larger competitors. The conversation transitions to the importance of a distinct, adaptable strategy and concludes by emphasizing the need for both strategic thinking and tactical execution in maintaining market relevance.]]>2448assymetricwar,infinitegame,leadership,malcolmgladwell,simonsinekfalse30fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/no-brilliant-jerks-w-caleb-schleder--67567374
Strategies for hiring, including prioritizing the right fit over filling positions quickly, and innovative approaches to onboarding and development programs are explored. They also cover the importance of managing team dynamics, including handling underperforming members to maintain a healthy organizational culture.  

The conversation offers practical advice and personal anecdotes with the aim of helping leaders at all levels improve their team-building efforts.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67567374Thu, 04 Sep 2025 09:00:19 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode, host Justin McMenamy and guest Caleb Schleder share critical insights into team building and leadership, drawing from their extensive corporate experience. They discuss the importance of trust, psychological safety, and culture...
Strategies for hiring, including prioritizing the right fit over filling positions quickly, and innovative approaches to onboarding and development programs are explored. They also cover the importance of managing team dynamics, including handling underperforming members to maintain a healthy organizational culture.  

The conversation offers practical advice and personal anecdotes with the aim of helping leaders at all levels improve their team-building efforts.]]>3373leadership,norulesrulesfalse29fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-elon-effect-w-billy-samoa-saleebey--67410096
The episode explores Elon Musk's leadership style, the rigorous work culture at Tesla, and the unique onboarding and interview processes. Saleebey reflects on memorable experiences, such as factory tours and collaborative efforts, and discusses the potential future of Musk's companies post-Elon.  

The episode also examines the qualities of successful leadership and what aspiring leaders can learn from Musk's approach.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67410096Thu, 21 Aug 2025 09:00:19 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode, host Justin McMenamy interviews Billy Samoa Saleebey, a former Tesla and SolarCity employee, about his experiences working in Elon Musk's companies. The discussion delves into Saleebey's roles in Global Sales and Product Training, and...
The episode explores Elon Musk's leadership style, the rigorous work culture at Tesla, and the unique onboarding and interview processes. Saleebey reflects on memorable experiences, such as factory tours and collaborative efforts, and discusses the potential future of Musk's companies post-Elon.  

The episode also examines the qualities of successful leadership and what aspiring leaders can learn from Musk's approach.]]>3264elon,elonmusk,leadership,leadershipdevelopment,precisionplanting,solarcity,teslafalse28fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-angry-birds-of-management-w-jeff-snowden--67241310https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67241310Thu, 07 Aug 2025 09:00:16 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this special anniversary episode of 'Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL,' host Justin McMenamy and guest Jeff Snowden discuss various types of leadership styles by humorously comparing them to different birds. They explore the traits and behaviors of each...3478angrybirds,bureaucracy,leadershipfalse27fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/skunk-works-vi-an-organization-set-apart--67040789
He critiques corporate cultures given over to bureaucracy and lack of trust, and shares strategies for fostering a more agile and trustworthy organization. McMenemy also discusses the practical applications of Johnson's rules in modern corporate settings, particularly focusing on maintaining momentum, managing budget and staffing wisely, and retaining top technical talent without forcing them into management roles.

The episode concludes with a promise of a bonus installment to explore Johnson's 15th unwritten rule of management.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67040789Thu, 24 Jul 2025 09:00:15 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL, Justin McMenemy discusses his experiences and insights on leadership, drawing parallels with Kelly Johnson's 14 Rules of Management from Skunk Works. Emphasizing the importance of organizational structure...
He critiques corporate cultures given over to bureaucracy and lack of trust, and shares strategies for fostering a more agile and trustworthy organization. McMenemy also discusses the practical applications of Johnson's rules in modern corporate settings, particularly focusing on maintaining momentum, managing budget and staffing wisely, and retaining top technical talent without forcing them into management roles.

The episode concludes with a promise of a bonus installment to explore Johnson's 15th unwritten rule of management.]]>2315caterpillar,kellyjohnson,leadership,lockheed,newleaders,skunkworks,wellsfargofalse26fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-offcenter-of-excellence-w-jim-weber--66856013
Weber shares stories of inspiring his team through unique team-building exercises, like crafting a Dr. Seuss-style poem and making a team quilt. The conversation also touches on serious leadership topics, such as avoiding becoming a 'bitter old engineer,' the importance of empathy and honesty, and supporting colleagues through difficult times.  

Weber emphasizes the value of creating a fun and inclusive work environment and concludes with a humorous recount of his memorable retirement email. The episode encapsulates both light-hearted stories and valuable insights into effective leadership.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66856013Thu, 10 Jul 2025 09:00:17 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL, host Justin McMenamy interviews Jim Weber, an award-winning inventor, mentor and friend. They discuss Weber's extensive career, his passion for mentoring, and his innovative and humorous approaches to...
Weber shares stories of inspiring his team through unique team-building exercises, like crafting a Dr. Seuss-style poem and making a team quilt. The conversation also touches on serious leadership topics, such as avoiding becoming a 'bitter old engineer,' the importance of empathy and honesty, and supporting colleagues through difficult times.  

Weber emphasizes the value of creating a fun and inclusive work environment and concludes with a humorous recount of his memorable retirement email. The episode encapsulates both light-hearted stories and valuable insights into effective leadership.]]>2880caterpillar,invention,leadership,mentorship,podcastfalse25fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/skunk-works-v-the-presumption-of-ease--66683958
Justin then contrasts his experiences working within rigid corporate processes with the adaptable approach taken during his tenure at Precision Planting, illustrating the pitfalls of hierarchical decision-making, the presumption of ease and guilt of others in the organization, and the necessity of flexibility and adaptability in project management. He shares real examples of wasteful efforts due to inflexible specifications and highlights the importance of balancing structure and flexibility for organizational success.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66683958Thu, 26 Jun 2025 09:00:16 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode, the fifth installment of the SkunkWorks mini-series which draws from Kelly Johnson's 14 Rules of Management, Justin discusses the importance of clear specifications in product development. He examines the critical 10th rule of...
Justin then contrasts his experiences working within rigid corporate processes with the adaptable approach taken during his tenure at Precision Planting, illustrating the pitfalls of hierarchical decision-making, the presumption of ease and guilt of others in the organization, and the necessity of flexibility and adaptability in project management. He shares real examples of wasteful efforts due to inflexible specifications and highlights the importance of balancing structure and flexibility for organizational success.]]>2397pmo,podcast,productdevelopment,skunkworksfalse24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/balancing-business-values-w-brad-arnold--66158674https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66158674Thu, 12 Jun 2025 09:00:14 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL,' host Justin McMenamy and guest Brad Arnold discuss valuable leadership lessons they've learned across their careers. They delve into transitioning from individual contributors to leaders, navigating...3224candor,leadership,precisionplanting,trustfalse23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/skunk-works-iv-orbiting-the-giant-hairball--66126660https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66126660Thu, 29 May 2025 09:00:14 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL', Justin McMenamy continues to explore the practical applications of Kelly Johnson’s 14 Rules of Management in addition to Gordon MacKenzie's book 'Orbiting the Giant Hairball'. The discussion delves into...2264corporateculture,engineering,gordonmackenzie,hairball,kellyjohnson,leadership,skunkworks,startupfalse22fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/firm-feedback-in-a-fragile-world-w-jeff-hancher--66033637
Jeff recounts the impact of his military service in shaping his character and career, emphasizing the significance of continuous improvement, accountability and engaging one’s motivation as pillars to his success.  Post-military, Jeff transitioned to Cintas, rising from a route delivery driver to a senior leadership position across his 20+ year career. The conversation centers on the critical role of feedback in leadership, illustrating through personal anecdotes how effective feedback can transform individuals and organizations.  

Jeff's upcoming book, 'Firm Feedback in a Fragile World,' aims to equip leaders with tools to provide impactful feedback in today’s volatile work environment. The episode underscores the necessity of balancing empathy with accountability to foster professional growth and organizational success.

For those interested in ordering Jeff's new book, you can go to firmfeedbackbook.com.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66033637Thu, 15 May 2025 09:00:15 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of ‘Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL’, host Justin McMenamy is joined by guest Jeff Hancher.  The discussion highlights Jeff's journey from a challenging upbringing in rural Pennsylvania to becoming an executive at Cintas, a publicly traded...
Jeff recounts the impact of his military service in shaping his character and career, emphasizing the significance of continuous improvement, accountability and engaging one’s motivation as pillars to his success.  Post-military, Jeff transitioned to Cintas, rising from a route delivery driver to a senior leadership position across his 20+ year career. The conversation centers on the critical role of feedback in leadership, illustrating through personal anecdotes how effective feedback can transform individuals and organizations.  

Jeff's upcoming book, 'Firm Feedback in a Fragile World,' aims to equip leaders with tools to provide impactful feedback in today’s volatile work environment. The episode underscores the necessity of balancing empathy with accountability to foster professional growth and organizational success.

For those interested in ordering Jeff's new book, you can go to firmfeedbackbook.com.]]>3425feedback,jeffhancher,leadershipfalse21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/skunk-works-iii-the-powerpoint-class--65774350
Focusing on Rules #5-7, McMenamy critiques the overuse of metrics and status meetings in large organizations, providing anecdotes from his tenure at Precision Planting and other companies. He underscores the benefits of minimizing bureaucracy and fostering direct, transparent communication, especially in supplier relationships.  

The episode emphasizes the utility of a minimalist approach to budgeting and reporting for fostering a nimble and creative work environment while ensuring accountability and efficiency.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65774350Thu, 01 May 2025 09:00:20 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of ‘Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL’, host Justin McMenamy continues his survey of Kelly Johnson’s 14 Rules of Management through the lens of his own 20-year career both leading and working within various product organizations.   Focusing...
Focusing on Rules #5-7, McMenamy critiques the overuse of metrics and status meetings in large organizations, providing anecdotes from his tenure at Precision Planting and other companies. He underscores the benefits of minimizing bureaucracy and fostering direct, transparent communication, especially in supplier relationships.  

The episode emphasizes the utility of a minimalist approach to budgeting and reporting for fostering a nimble and creative work environment while ensuring accountability and efficiency.]]>2483budgeting,bureaucracy,innovation,leadership,skunkworks,supplychainfalse20fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-cut-of-his-jib-w-jeff-snowden--65561893https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65561893Thu, 17 Apr 2025 09:00:11 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of ‘Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL’, host Justin McMenamy is joined by Jeff Snowden to discuss leadership lessons drawn from the career of Admiral Hyman Rickover, the father of the nuclear Navy. They explore Rickover's famed career,...3351leadership,navy,rickover,submarinefalse19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/skunk-works-ii-the-tyranny-of-alignment--65220959https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65220959Thu, 03 Apr 2025 09:00:12 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody and UnPrOfEsSiOnAL' Justin McMenamy delves into how principles from rocket science can inform organizational architecture, particularly in disruptive startup environments. Using Kelly Johnson's 14 Rules of Management from...2028false18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-trade-w-lon-stroschein--64926365https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64926365Thu, 20 Mar 2025 09:00:13 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of "Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL" Justin McMenamy interviews Lon Stroschein, a former corporate executive who transitioned to writing and coaching after a pivotal season in his life. Lon shares his journey from feeling unfulfilled...3713false17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/skunk-works-i-the-black-sheep-of-the-blue-chip--64662792
In the first episode of the series, McMenamy recounts early career disillusionment with corporate bureaucracy which led him to join Precision Planting, a start-up minded company with an anti-bureaucratic ethos.  In light of Precision Planting being acquired by Monsanto in 2012 and later by AGCO in 2017, McMenemy explores the challenges of maintaining a startup culture within a large corporation. Building from Kelly Johnson's 1st rule of management, McMenamy highlights the significance of executive support for organizational autonomy from the broader company.    

Across the arc of this series, McMenamy focuses on the complexities of sustaining an innovative culture within incumbent companies, along with proven techniques an organization can employ to forestall the logical and rational march into bureaucracy.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64662792Thu, 06 Mar 2025 10:00:12 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of ‘Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL’, Justin McMenamy kicks off a seven-episode mini-series focused on his experiences as a curator of a market disruptive technology division housed within a Fortune 500 company.  Each episode in the series...
In the first episode of the series, McMenamy recounts early career disillusionment with corporate bureaucracy which led him to join Precision Planting, a start-up minded company with an anti-bureaucratic ethos.  In light of Precision Planting being acquired by Monsanto in 2012 and later by AGCO in 2017, McMenemy explores the challenges of maintaining a startup culture within a large corporation. Building from Kelly Johnson's 1st rule of management, McMenamy highlights the significance of executive support for organizational autonomy from the broader company.    

Across the arc of this series, McMenamy focuses on the complexities of sustaining an innovative culture within incumbent companies, along with proven techniques an organization can employ to forestall the logical and rational march into bureaucracy.]]>1726false16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-with-authenticity-w-juan-roncoroni--64420868https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64420868Thu, 20 Feb 2025 10:00:12 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL, Justin McMenamy discusses leadership lessons with his friend and colleague, Juan Roncoroni.  The conversation covers topics like authenticity, transparency, balancing chaos with structure, and the...3205false15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-employee-opinion-survey--64180109
“The Modern Employee Opinion Survey promotes a culture of secrecy and gossip, which is nothing but a hindrance to teamwork, candor, and rapid movement towards a goal.  I have always believed that information flows fastest along relationship lines. The modern employee opinion survey largely acts as a relationship blocker between leaders and their organizations.”        ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64180109Thu, 06 Feb 2025 10:00:13 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL,' Justin McMenamy critiques the modern employee opinion survey by questioning the effectiveness of employing broadbrush survey results and anonymous free text feedback to gauge employee morale. McMenamy...
“The Modern Employee Opinion Survey promotes a culture of secrecy and gossip, which is nothing but a hindrance to teamwork, candor, and rapid movement towards a goal.  I have always believed that information flows fastest along relationship lines. The modern employee opinion survey largely acts as a relationship blocker between leaders and their organizations.”        ]]>2566false14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/autonomy-accountability-agri-marketing-w-bryce-baker--63768258https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63768258Thu, 23 Jan 2025 10:00:13 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL,' Justin McMenamy discusses leadership lessons with Bryce Baker, focusing on distinguishing principle from preference and integrating insights from different domains into your leadership approach. Bryce...3323false13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-bitter-brew--63585934https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63585934Thu, 09 Jan 2025 10:00:11 +0000Justin McMenamyJustin McMenamy, host of Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL, shares his experience as a design engineer in a highly regulated and complacent company within the diesel engine industry. He discusses the aristocratic leadership style that stifled creativity,...2417false12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/coconuts-peaches-the-packers-w-benoit-blateyron--63461659https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63461659Thu, 26 Dec 2024 10:00:11 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody and UnPrOfEsSiOnAL,' host Justin McMenamy is joined by longtime friend and colleague Benoit Blateyron.  Across the conversation, they discuss international business expansion, adapting strategies to different cultures, the...3141false11fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sabbatical--63217211https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63217211Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:00:13 +0000Justin McMenamyJustin McMenamy, the host of Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL, shares his journey of stepping down from a VP role at Precision Planting, part of a Fortune 500 company. He details his decision to take a season of unpaid leave in search of personal balance,...1621false10fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/high-energy-humility-w-matt-morgan--63008521https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63008521Thu, 28 Nov 2024 10:00:10 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL' Justin McMenamy interviews Matt Morgan about leadership experiences accumulated across his wide ranging career. They discuss Matt's journey from joining Precision Planting, including a mishap with a...3284false9fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-lemonade-lessons-ii--62707157https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62707157Thu, 14 Nov 2024 10:00:11 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL,' Justin McMenamy continues developing the concept of 'Leadership Lemonade Lessons', first discussed in Episode 4.  Lemonade Lessons involve wringing past leadership blunders in search of constructive...1925false8fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/embracing-the-awkward-w-brad-stoller--62524000https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62524000Thu, 31 Oct 2024 09:00:07 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody and UnPrOfEsSiOnAL,' Justin McMenamy and Brad Stoller share leadership lessons drawn from their collective experiences in the automotive and agtech industries, particularly at Precision Planting. The discussion spans several...3251false7fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/kayaks-coffins--62362035https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62362035Thu, 17 Oct 2024 09:00:09 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of ‘Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL', Justin McMenamy sarcastically questions the reliability of early career aptitude tests in determining one's future career choices. Through personal anecdotes, he illustrates how career paths and goals...1673false6fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/plum-tree-leadership-w-justin-kauffman--62165380https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62165380Thu, 03 Oct 2024 09:00:07 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL, host Justin McMenamy interviews longtime friend Justin Kauffman. Kauffman shares his career background and passion for early-stage business building. Both Justins reflect on leadership principles,...3219false5fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-lemonade-lessons-i--61991569https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61991569Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:00:07 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of “Grody & Unprofessional”, Justin McMenamy explores leadership lessons from his 20-year corporate career. Through personal stories, including experiences with a high school baseball coach and within a bureaucratic engineering...1531false4fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-trust-and-inspiring-success-w-caleb-schleder--61231762https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61231762Thu, 05 Sep 2024 09:00:07 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of "Grody & UnPrOfEsSiOnAL", Justin McMenamy and guest Caleb Schleder discuss leadership lessons from their careers. They cover the importance of mentorship, the joy of seeing others succeed, and building trust within a team....2974false3fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-feedback-fallacy--61095516https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61095516Thu, 22 Aug 2024 09:00:07 +0000Justin McMenamyIn this episode of 'Grody & Unprofessional,' Justin McMenamy explores the challenges leaders face in receiving honest, candid feedback from their teams, subordinates, peers, and departing employees due to conflicts of interest and modified...1547false2fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/orbital-influence--60887179https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60887179Thu, 08 Aug 2024 09:00:11 +0000Justin McMenamyIn the first episode of 'Grody & Unprofessional', host Justin McMenamy emphasizes the critical need for leaders to actively study and practice leadership as a skill, rather than relying on superficial engagement. He argues that many leaders spend...2305false1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/g-u-intro-teaser--60887059 

G&U seeks to share leadership stories harvested from both Justin's and others experiences through approachable and candid conversations with the aim of educating and shaping your leadership journey.  

Demand for talented leaders outstrips supply by at least tenfold, G&U is an attempt to improve supply.  I hope you will join as we seek to uncover people, product, and organizational leadership lessons through the musings of a corporate misfit and his friends.      ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60887059Mon, 05 Aug 2024 15:43:47 +0000Justin McMenamyIn Grody & Unprofessional, Justin McMenamy seeks to  share both profitable and painful leadership lessons I have acquired over a twenty-year career as a misfit in corporate America.    G&U seeks to share leadership stories harvested from both... 

G&U seeks to share leadership stories harvested from both Justin's and others experiences through approachable and candid conversations with the aim of educating and shaping your leadership journey.  

Demand for talented leaders outstrips supply by at least tenfold, G&U is an attempt to improve supply.  I hope you will join as we seek to uncover people, product, and organizational leadership lessons through the musings of a corporate misfit and his friends.      ]]>117falsetrailer