Fred Jentgen is launching a new Acumen team in Phoenix, Arizona! Fred shares his journey from a technology leader to an EOS implementer and founder of Unleashed Consulting Group.

The conversation dives into the challenges and learning experiences Fred faced throughout his career, particularly leading through tragedy. He recounts the story of a key team member, Eric, who battled cancer at a young age, and how the team rallied together during this difficult time. Fred discusses the importance of role clarity, trust, and communication, and how these elements helped the team to persevere through adversity.

Fred also touches on his personal faith journey and how it integrates with his professional life, offering hope and guidance during life's toughest moments. This episode is a deep dive into how leaders can prepare for and navigate through unexpected challenges while supporting their teams with empathy and understanding.

Episode Summary

0:00 - 1:00 | Introduction

  • Dan Cooper welcomes listeners to the Sharpen Podcast by Acumen, a community for CEOs and business owners.
  • Introduces guest Fred Jentgen, who is launching an Acumen team in Phoenix.

1:00 - 6:45 | Fred’s Background & Journey to Acumen

  • Fred shares his career path, starting in sales and marketing for a tech company in Phoenix.
  • Discusses early failures and lessons learned in business.
  • Founding of Unleashed Consulting to support business leaders.
  • Decision to join Acumen to further his mission.

6:45 - 9:50 | Introducing the Tragedy

  • Fred recalls leading a high-trust, high-performing marketing team in 2009.
  • A key team member, Eric, was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer at 36.
  • The team struggled to process the sudden and tragic news.

9:50 - 16:00 | Navigating the Emotional Impact

  • Eric openly shared his cancer journey through a blog.
  • Team members experienced a range of emotions, including anger and disbelief.
  • Role clarity and strong team culture helped them navigate the challenges.
  • The team stepped up to cover Eric’s responsibilities.

16:00 - 20:40 | Leadership Through Loss

  • After Eric’s passing, the focus shifted to honoring his legacy and moving forward.
  • Fred personally struggled with how to fill the leadership void.
  • The experience reinforced the importance of living with purpose.
  • Eventually, the team hired another exceptional leader, proving resilience.

20:40 - 26:00 | Practical Takeaways for Leaders

  • Importance of role clarity and trust in teams.
  • Building strong foundations before a crisis hits.
  • Maintaining regular communication during difficult times.
  • Allowing space for emotions while keeping the business moving forward.

26:00 - 31:40 | Personal & Faith Reflections

  • The experience deepened Fred’s perspective on leadership and purpose.
  • Faith played a role in guiding his approach to navigating tragedy.
  • Encourages leaders to be a source of hope and light for their teams.

31:40 - End | Closing & Contact Information

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