Ep #150: Structure First: Leadership Lessons from Glenn Poulos

What does it actually take to build and lead companies that scale?In this episode of The H.I.T. Podcast, entrepreneur, executive, and author Glenn Poulos joins the show to share lessons from nearly four decades of building, leading, and selling successful businesses. Glenn discusses how moving away from “seat-of-the-pants” management toward a structured leadership system—specifically the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)—helped transform the way his companies operate and scale.We dive into practical leadership strategies including:Structure before people — why clear roles and expectations drive performanceDefining meaningful core values with team inputHolding teams accountable and enforcing culture consistentlyWhy HR must operate as a strategic leadership partner, not just an administrative functionThe importance of meeting cadence — weekly, quarterly, and annual planningHow AI and technology are helping businesses analyze opportunities and streamline RFP processesLessons learned from building and exiting multiple companiesGlenn also shares insights from his book Never Sit in the Lobby, which focuses on sales discipline, leadership accountability, and building durable organizations that customers trust long-term.If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or HR professional focused on building stronger teams and scalable businesses, this conversation delivers practical insights from someone who has done it at the highest level.