Practical Leadership Podcast Notes

Host:

• Max Koslovsky

Guest:

• Chad McNair
  • CEO of Drill Sage
  • Entrepreneur, founder, advisor, and supporter of small businesses

Key Topics Discussed:

Personal Updates:

• Chad McNair shares personal updates:
  • Married to Dr. Shelley McNair, a pediatrician working hard through the pandemic.
  • Shelley's practice is getting help by hiring more doctors.
  • Personal anecdote: Chad is working as his wife has a few more years in her practice.

Leadership Philosophy and Background:

• Leadership modeled by family:
  • Grew up in a supportive, loving family with parents active in the community.
  • Learned leadership by observing family members helping others.
  • Leadership involves taking initiative and doing what needs to be done without waiting.
• **Key Influences on Leadership: **
  • Scouting: Developed leadership skills through involvement in scouting.
  • Work Experience: Learned leadership through early work experiences and family business leadership.

Approach to Leadership:

• Simplified Philosophy: "Love God and serve others."
• Importance of putting others first and being a patient leader.

Building and Utilizing Teams:

• Networking is crucial:

  • Value in meeting and learning from people.
  • Advises young people to reach out for mentorship and networking.

• **Advisory Board: **

  • Formed an advisory board for Aspen Beverage Company with a mix of experienced individuals from different fields.
  • Key Strategies:
    • Identify people who genuinely care for your success.
    • Mix of older experienced individuals with younger ones for dynamic input.
    • Commitment to listen to advice and show progress on suggestions.
    • Practical Tips on Running Board Meetings:
      • Prepare agendas, start and finish meetings on time.
      • Regular quarterly meetings and follow-up on suggested actions.
      • Transition board members as company needs evolve.

Entrepreneurs and Business Growth:

• Market, Model, Management are key.
• Right market, model, and people attract the necessary funding.
• Importance of discipline and not getting too much money too soon.

Networking and People Skills:

• Be a good listener and make notes after interactions.
• Value of thanking those who contribute to your success.

Tools and Approach:

• Simplicity in tools: Use of Excel, regular meetings, and keeping a good contact database.
• Importance of planning but also having a bias towards action (The Art of the Start by Guy Kawasaki).

Current Work and Future Projects:

• Family office investments in various startups.
• Excited about potential joint ventures and other business opportunities.

Final Thoughts:

• People are central to success in life and business.
• Encourages taking action, being intentional with networking and mentoring relationships.

How to Connect:

• Chad McNair is open to connecting on LinkedIn for further questions or opportunities.