Episode 31

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Published on:

24th Apr 2026

61. Leadership Is a People Business with Jon Rennie

What does leading a submarine crew have to do with running a landscaping company?

More than you'd think.

In this episode, Shay and Zac sit down with Jon Rennie, former Cold War submarine officer, corporate executive, manufacturing business owner, and host of the Deep Leadership Podcast.

Jon has spent decades studying and living out one simple truth: Leadership is a people business, and that doesn't change no matter the industry you're in.

These three leaders dig into what real leadership actually looks like on the ground, why so many business owners manage tasks instead of leading people, and how the principles Jon learned underwater and in the boardroom translate directly to the trades.

Whether you're running a two-man crew or scaling a full operation, this conversation will challenge you to take a hard look at how you're showing up for the people around you.

Jon is also the author of the Qualified Leadership Series and a voice you need in your rotation if you're serious about building a business worth following.

Connect with Jon at jonsrennie.com.

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About the Podcast

The Landscaping Podcast
Power by Landscaping Unlimited
The Landscaping Podcast is where real landscapers talk shop.

Hosted by Shay Brickhouse (CEO of Landscaping Unlimited, Inc.) and Zac Small (COO & Media), each episode dives into landscaping, hardscape, irrigation, turf installation, and the realities of running a company.

From managing crews and scaling a business to balancing family and faith, we bring unfiltered conversations with experts, entrepreneurs, and tradesmen building lives outdoors.

Whether you’re laying pavers, leading a team, or want to grow a landscaping company with integrity, this show is for you.

About your host

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Zac Small