Episode Details

We're celebrating PFN's birthday by shining a light on the partners who have been part of our journey toward people-first leadership, meaningful work, and purpose-driven impact.

This special feature from The Story Effect with Danielle Krischik captures the heart of their work and the shared mission that brings us together. Enjoy!

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Most leaders talk about culture. Tony Hartsgrove built one by telling the truth, trusting the data, and refusing to separate business growth from human growth.

Danielle Krischik sits down with Tony Hartsgrove, CEO of ODC Construction, the largest shell contractor in the Southeast, to unpack what it really takes to lead through growth, acquisition, risk, and change. Tony shares how ODC grew from roughly $20 million to $400 million in revenue, why data became the company's secret sauce, and how purpose only matters when leaders make it real through stories, behavior, and accountability.

From childhood lessons and imposter syndrome to luck, ambition, people-first pay, and the "back work" leaders must do before asking teams to follow, this conversation is honest, sharp, funny, and deeply human. It is a reminder that leadership is not about pretending to have it all figured out. It is about caring enough to build something bigger than yourself.

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Key Takeaways:

• Purpose sticks when leaders make it personal.
• Data builds trust during major change.
• Growth requires risk, revenue, and courage.
• Your story shapes you, but doesn't define you.
• People-first leadership includes financial care.