When I sat down with James Lunday, VP & Controller at Tenaska Power Services and President of The ARC of DFW, I expected a thoughtful conversation — but I didn’t expect such honest reflection on the failures, insecurities, and pivotal moments that shaped him into the leader he is today.
James shares how early setbacks, communication missteps, and a team that challenged his assumptions became the turning points in his leadership. He breaks down the moment he realized that great leaders don’t hire people like themselves — they hire people who make them better.
Key takeaways:
- Why hiring people unlike you strengthens your team
- How early failures became the foundation of his leadership style
- The role of humility and self-awareness in earning trust
- How expectations — at work and at home — shape performance
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to grow as a leader, build a team that truly works together, or turn their own learning moments into long-term strength and impact.
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