Thirty years ago this man, Ron Erps, had the courage to put a 27-year-old woman in charge of an 800 person manufacturing operation in a failing company that was given 12 months to turn it around or face closure. This leadership opportunity early in my career had a profound impact upon me and shaped my thinking on a number of topics – leadership, leading change, listening, and empowering a community of hundreds of people to drive success. I’m so thankful I was able to visit with Ron and his wife Janet in 2018 as he sadly passed away last year. I’ll never forget his mentorship and faith in me. Thank you, Mickey Connolly, for interviewing me for the Greatness podcast so that I could share this story. I think there are a few relevant tips in here for leaders in today’s turbulent business environment.