Land and Lead

"Look in those white spaces" - Dr. Todd Grindal of SRI

In this episode of Land and Lead, Dr. Josh Elmore speaks with Dr. Todd Grindal, President of SRI Education, about stepping into a high-stakes leadership role during a period of major disruption as federal funding priorities were shifting. Drawing on his progression through SRI and his background as a researcher, teacher, and administrator, Todd reflects on the importance of humility, listening, strategic clarity, and decision-making amid uncertainty. He shares how he led through crisis by focusing the organization on excellence, unique value, mission, and impact. Todd also offers a powerful lesson on looking for what is missing—the “white space”—when interpreting data and leading change.

"Forget everything you knew about what you did in a traditional business" - Dave Kehr of Schaeffler

In this episode of Land and Lead, Dr. Josh Elmore speaks with Dave Kehr on his transition into leading Schaeffler’s humanoid robotics startup after more than two decades in engineering, manufacturing, and global business roles. He reflects on moving from structured business units into a fast-moving internal startup, where speed, uncertainty, and quick decision-making define the work. Dave discusses the value of technical competence, global experience, executive access, and learning to stay effective while testing his comfort zone. His advice for leaders entering high-stakes roles: trust yourself, avoid the pressure to be perfect, rely on your team, and seek outside perspective.

"Alignment between our people, our systems and our strategies" - Reggie Newson of Wellpoint Care Network

In this episode of Land and Lead, Dr. Josh Elmore speaks with Reggie Newson, President and CEO of Wellpoint Care Network, about leading a 175-year-old nonprofit through alignment, culture-building, and renewed strategic focus. Reggie shares how he entered the role with deep listening, using rounding, stakeholder conversations, and direct engagement with associates to understand the organization’s strengths and opportunities. He discusses building a culture of accountability and care, breaking down silos, strengthening financial sustainability, and keeping Wellpoint’s mission connected to expectations. For leaders entering high-stakes roles, Reggie emphasizes clarity, alignment, culture, and decisive action grounded in learning.

"Be the change you want to see" - Charles Newnam of Perceptyx

In this episode of Land and Lead, Dr. Josh Elmore speaks with Charles Newnam, Vice President and General Manager of Leadership and Learning Strategy at Perceptyx, about entering a newly created executive role during a pivotal moment for the company. Charles reflects on how his Navy, consulting, and organization development experiences shaped his approach to leadership, behavior change, and systems thinking. He shares what it takes to guide organizational transformation while navigating his own transition, including staying disciplined, prioritizing what matters most, building belief, and remaining grounded in purpose. The episode offers practical insight for leaders stepping into complex new mandates.

"A Title Doesn't Earn You Respect, You Have to Earn Respect" - Kurtis Krentz of ALLO Fiber

In this episode of Land and Lead, Dr. Josh Elmore speaks with Kurtis Krentz, President of ALLO Fiber, about transitioning into a leadership role within a high-growth, founder-led organization. Kurtis shares how his move from a large firm to an entrepreneurial company required adapting his leadership approach, learning a new operating environment, and building credibility over time. He reflects on the shift from founder-driven leadership to a performance-driven model, and the importance of complementing, not replacing, the founder’s strengths. The conversation highlights the value of patience, listening, and earning trust. Kurtis offers practical advice for leaders entering new roles: stay grounded, resist the urge to pursue big acts quickly, and focus on enabling others to succeed.