On this episode of the Customer’s First Podcast, host Tacey Atkinson welcomes Clint Rush, a multifaceted leader with an impressive background, including an award-winning executive, a decorated combat veteran, and a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. We delve into Clint’s journey, which began at the University of Wisconsin and then took a significant turn following the events of 9/11, which motivated him to join the Army. His military service paved the way for a diverse career in the private sector, including roles in operations, quality, business development, and more. Clint reflects on his transitions from military to civilian life and how each experience has shaped his approach to leadership.
Clint shares insights from his time managing a logistics company during the tumultuous period of the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasizes that overcoming challenges in unprecedented times fosters innovation and provides a unique opportunity to place the customer at the center of business strategy. He acknowledges the complexities of leadership, particularly during crises, and expresses the importance of creating meaningful experiences that stand out in difficult times.
The conversation seamlessly shifts to foundational leadership qualities as Tacey and Clint explore what distinguishes a true leader from a mere people manager. Clint articulates that, at its core, leadership is about setting a clear destination and facilitating others’ journeys to get there. He highlights the critical role of trust-building within organizations and asserts that vulnerability and transparency about one’s shortcomings are vital to fostering a trustworthy environment.
Clint also candidly addresses why first-time leaders often struggle, attributing their challenges to fear and the pressure to perform perfectly. He encourages new leaders to embrace their fallibility and view setbacks as opportunities for growth, both personally and within their teams. Drawing parallels between leadership and personal experiences, Clint emphasizes patience as a critical trait for influential leaders, asserting that cultivating a robust team culture takes time and consistent effort.
This enriching episode serves as a reminder that effective leadership is rooted in trust, transparency, and genuine care for one’s team while also inviting listeners to foster their own customer-centric cultures. Tune in to gain valuable insights into effective leadership and the magic of creating memorable customer experiences.
Timestamps:
10:49: Building Trust in Organizations
14:43: The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership
16:15: Overcoming Fear as a First-Time Leader
20:30: Differentiating Yourself as a Leader
Clint’s Contact Information:
Website: https://clintrusch.com
LinkedIn: Clint Rusch
Tacey’s Contact Information:
All Social Media Platforms: @taceyatkinson
Email: [email protected]
Thank you for tuning in, and I look forward to having more valuable conversations together in the future.
Remember:
Customer-Centric Cultures Create Magical Customer Experiences.
Now Go Spread the Magic!