By John Vermeesch, founder and steward, Narrow Road Coaching A Leadership StorySummer 1980-something. West Point. John Vermeesch was an 18-year-old new cadet sweating through New York’s humidity, running the mountains of the Hudson Valley, and learning just how much he didn’t know about leadership. That summer, he always carried a 3"x4.5" book called Bugle Notes, a … [Read more...] about How Well Do Leaders Know Themselves?
Leadership
New Year. New Mindset.
By Lindsey Munson, editor, Plastics Business January 2026 came and went in a blur. I’m sure, like many of you, we have had little time to pause and reflect on what we’d like to accomplish this year – both professionally and personally. Still, I am someone who appreciates a good plan (hello, Type A), loves to learn and strives to be the best version of myself. Rather than set … [Read more...] about New Year. New Mindset.
Ownership Transitions: Strategic Alternatives and Best Practicesfor Companies
By Mike Benson, managing director, and Steven Simone, senior vice president, Stout Ownership transitions represent one of the most pivotal moments in the lifecycle of a business. These transitions can be particularly complex, as they often involve balancing the goals of multiple stakeholders while ensuring the long-term health of the company. Whether driven by a desire … [Read more...] about Ownership Transitions: Strategic Alternatives and Best Practicesfor Companies
Build a Productive Workplace Culture Through Trust and Engagement
By Angela Elsey, president, PCS Company In 2017, PCS Company surveyed its employees and found that only 56% were engaged in their jobs. If a company does not have engaged team members – if they’re not willing to look out for each other, if they’re not willing to be part of the solution vs. part of the problem – a company can’t expect its workforce to support customers … [Read more...] about Build a Productive Workplace Culture Through Trust and Engagement