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When your company can’t grow past you, it’s time to grow yourself.
From starting a business by accident to scaling multiple companies—and learning some hard lessons along the way—Josh McAfee brings an honest and insightful lens to what it really takes to lead and grow. In this episode, Josh joins Jane Gentry to talk about the mindset shift that transformed him from a high-performing individual contributor into a people-first leader.
He shares the story of why his first company plateaued, how he built a radically different kind of partnership in his second, and why emotional intelligence, feedback, and strategic alignment are make-or-break skills for today’s CEOs. Whether you’re a founder, a mid-market executive, or a leader who wants to grow without burning out, this conversation is filled with moments that will challenge and inspire you.
Episode Highlights
- (09:17) How personal growth limitations can cap company success
- (10:59) How Josh approached partnership differently the second time around
- (15:01) Creating space for different communication styles in leadership
- (17:53) Why every CEO needs a circle of influence
- (22:23) The joy of helping others grow—why leadership is personal for Josh
- (24:15) What it means to “invest in people” as a scaling CEO
- (27:37) Leadership blind spots and how honesty keeps you sharp
- (32:37) Why misalignment in hiring isn’t just a process problem
- (34:27) Josh’s advice for young leaders: set better goals
Josh’s story is a masterclass in humility, growth, and leading with purpose—and a reminder that the best leaders are the ones who never stop learning.
Episode Guest
About Josh McAfee, Founder, Author, Advisor, and passionate about helping people make great hiring and career decisions.
Josh McAfee is a dynamic leader with a proven track record of success in the tech industry. As a serial entrepreneur, he has founded, scaled, and advised multiple high-growth tech companies from founding, through funding, and to exit, demonstrating a deep understanding of business and people strategies, innovation, and building amazing, high-functioning teams. He’s also a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, sought-after high-growth advisor and speaker, and a passionate advocate for human potential.
Josh is deeply committed to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve their full potential. Through his work in recruitment, career development, and leadership coaching, he has helped countless companies build high-functioning, results-oriented cultures where people are engaged, accountable, and growing together professionally and personally.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Josh is a dedicated philanthropist and community leader. He actively supports and works with various impact nonprofits including Boys & Girls Club of America, Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Jesus Film Project, 410 Bridge, High Tech Ministries, and Jars of Clay. He believes in using his talents and resources to make a positive impact on the world. He enjoys an active lifestyle, embracing adventure and cherishing the time he spends with his family and friends.
