Energized Leadership with Dan Lorenc

In this episode of North Start Leadership Podcast, Dan and Lindsay dig into what it means to build a “safe source for open source,” how to lead with authenticity, and why sometimes the best way to serve customers is to take work off their plate entirely.

Episode 52 of the North Star Leaders podcast, hosted by Lindsay Pedersen, titled "Energized Leadership with Dan Lorenc" was published on December 2, 2025 and runs 29 minutes.

December 2, 2025 ·29m · North Star Leaders

Summary

Selling doesn’t have to feel slimy. Open source doesn’t have to feel risky. And leadership doesn’t have to drain you. Dan Lorenc, CEO and founder of ChainGuard, has built a company - and a culture - around those beliefs. In this episode of North Start Leadership Podcast, Dan and Lindsay dig into what it means to build a “safe source for open source,” how to lead with authenticity, and why sometimes the best way to serve customers is to take work off their plate entirely. You’ll hear them discuss: Why Dan, an engineer at heart, fell in love with sales once he realized it could be about solving real problems for people The hidden risks of open source software, and how ChainGuard is tackling them head on The difference between building another “smoke alarm” tool versus creating a fireproof foundation How Dan keeps his team aligned and motivated in a fully remote environment Why repetition is one of the most underrated leadership tools The company values that guide ChainGuard, including the reminder to take the work seriously without taking themselves too seriously Resources Dan Lorenc on the Chainguard | LinkedIn Lindsay Pedersen - Contact me to tell me who you'd like to hear as a guest! | Connect with me on LinkedIn

Episode Description