The North Group Podcast

Leadership doesn’t scale alone. In this conversation, the team talks through when, and why, organizations need leadership teams, how trust and disagreement can fuel better decisions, and what it takes for leaders to move from “my department” to “our organization.”

When the right leaders are in the right roles, everyone wins. In this episode, our team discusses what makes a hiring process effective, the importance of consistency, how to identify the characteristics that truly matter, and the realities of today's talent market.

What does it look like to grow as a leader with intention, consistency, and meaningful support? In this episode, our team talks about how leadership development coaching provides space for honest reflection, builds self‑awareness, and encourages leaders to move forward with clarity and confidence. They explore why having someone “in your corner” makes all the difference.

If you lead a business, succession is coming, ready or not. Join Leron Lehman and Josh Keefer as they explore how taking just one small step can open the door to clarity, connection, and a healthier future for your business and your family.

Leaders often default to “trust but verify,” but what if that posture quietly undermines the trust we’re trying to build? This episode invites a new way of thinking, one grounded in relationship, honesty, and genuine care.

The weight of leadership is appropriate, but the loneliness doesn’t have to be. In this episode, our team explores how leaders can drift into isolation and why vulnerability and connection are essential to thriving at the top.

“If you want something done well, do it yourself.” In this episode, our team wrestles with this common phrase—is it a call to action, an attempt at efficiency, or a barrier to your team’s growth?

Have you ever caught yourself saying, "They'll never change?" In Episode 45 of The North Group Podcast, our team explores what happens when leaders live with the assumption that people can't change—and more importantly, what becomes possible when they believe that they can. If you’ve struggled to see the potential in those you lead, join Gina Breslin, Brian Black, and Nikki Shingle in Episode 45!

Uncertainty is nothing new for leaders—but that doesn’t mean it's easy. These seasons prompt questions like: What does my team need from me right now? When do I stay the course and when do I try something new? How do I communicate with truth and hope in the midst of chaos? If you’ve ever found yourself navigating uncertainty, check out Episode 44 of The North Group Podcast where Kent Hartzler, Craig Schloneger, Nikki Shingle and Tim Heist unpack these key questions and more.

Ten years ago, the partners at North Group began asking a critical question: What will leadership and ownership look like beyond our founder? In this special episode, Brian Black sits down with Founder Roger North and President Jerry Murray to explore the intentional, multi-year leadership and ownership transition at North Group - culminating in Roger’s step out of ownership and leadership in 2025. Together, they offer an inside look at how the process unfolded, what they learned along the way, and how it has shaped the way North Group now serves clients walking through their own transitions. Roger and Jerry share openly about what felt rewarding, what was most difficult, and how the process required both spiritual and emotional work. They talk about preparing themselves and their team, navigating awkward in-between moments, and the importance of staying connected - especially when perspectives differ. You’ll hear how they balanced realism and optimism, how their vision for North Group continues with new strategies and leadership, and why succession is never a simple 1-for-1 handoff. This episode is for leaders, founders, and teams who want to approach leadership transition with purpose, humility, and hope. Most of all, it’s a story of continuing a mission beyond one individual, and into a future that honors both the past and the people who will carry it forward.

In this episode, Roger North and Gina Breslin dive into the complex world of ownership structures for privately-owned companies, including the often-debated 50/50 partnership model. Together, they analyze the pros and cons of different ownership models, highlighting that successful business strategies go beyond numbers. As Roger puts it, "When you're in a privately-owned company, relationships should lead transactions." Roger and Gina discuss the importance of long-term purpose and vision, noting that in their experience, the most successful organizations focus less on maximizing immediate value, distributions, or salaries. They also explore the unique challenges family-owned companies face, stressing the heightened need for nurturing relationships. Ultimately, they emphasize that there's no one-size-fits-all approach, and each company must find the structure that works best for them.

Join Jerry Murray, Leron Lehman, and Brian Black in this episode of The North Group Podcast as they discuss the outlook on success for family businesses. Statistics claim that less than half of family businesses survive transition from the first to the second generation, and fewer than 5% reach the fourth generation. Is the future truly this grim or is there a hopeful path forward? At North Group, we believe that family businesses are a gift to their communities, teams, and customers. Their success also requires a great deal of humility and intentionality. Along with these topics, Jerry, Leron, and Brian discuss: - Challenges families face in transitioning from generation to generation - Advice for building strong family relationships within and outside the business - The role of consultants in supporting family businesses through these transitions. Most importantly, they share how there is hope for each unique family and business navigating these transitions.

In Episode 40 of The North Group Podcast, Roger North is joined by Craig Schloneger and Eugene Hurst, CEO of the newly formed company Agriteer. Agriteer was created from the merger of two leading agricultural equipment dealers in Lancaster County, MM Weaver and Binkley & Hurst, both founded in the 1930s. While they were once respectful competitors, their shared values brought them together in a successful merger. Eugene Hurst reflects on the journey of unifying the companies, sharing how the process taught him valuable lessons about trust, humility, and courage. The discussion highlights how Agriteer overcame two commonly held beliefs about mergers — that 50/50 partnerships cannot succeed, and that one company must always dominate. Through open conversations and strong governance, they navigated the tough decisions and challenges, ultimately building a unified company. The episode sheds light on everything from how the name "Agriteer" was chosen to how leadership roles were determined and emphasizes the power of trust and vulnerability in achieving a shared vision. Stay tuned for parts 2 and 3 of The Agriteer Merger story to be released on our website in the coming weeks!

In Episode 39 of The North Group Podcast, Kent Hartzler interviews team member Nikki Shingle, who reflects on key lessons from her early career and her life-altering experience of losing her hearing as an adult. Through this unexpected challenge, Nikki discovered the profound importance of being fully present, even when she couldn’t always hear the world around her. She explores the powerful distinction between hearing and truly listening—where hearing simply involves processing sounds and listening means entering into a space of understanding with another. Additionally, Nikki discusses how her experiences have taught her the importance of saying "yes" intentionally. She’s developed a personal framework to decide when to say "yes" versus "no" to opportunities, with a strong emphasis on making time for people and being a good listener. Join us for this thoughtful conversation, where Nikki reflects on how, even in difficult times, there is always reason to remain hopeful. Stay tuned for parts 2 and 3 of Nikki's story to be released on our website in the coming weeks!

In this episode, host Daryl Leisey sits down with Josh Fisher, President of B&B Poultry in Norma, NJ, to explore his journey as the third-generation leader of his family’s business. Josh shares how earning his pilot’s license opened the door to volunteering for social causes, from transporting rescued animals to providing free medical flights. Through these experiences, he adopted the mantra "we will fly together," forming deep connections with those he served. Josh reflects on how life’s unexpected changes have shaped his path, revealing hidden opportunities and inspiring him to make a difference in the lives of others. Stay tuned for parts 2 and 3 of Josh's story to be released on our website in the coming weeks!

In episode 37 of The North Group Podcast, Jerry Murray sits down with Brian Black, a North Group team member and dedicated husband and father of four. Brian started his career as a lawyer, added the title of "Pastor," and later transitioned to consultant. Throughout this journey, two significant trials profoundly transformed his faith and deepened his compassion for others. Brian shares about the loss of his wife, Laurie, to cancer after 28 years of marriage and his later experience of burnout from the intense demands of his professional life. Join us as Brian recounts how these experiences have reshaped his approach to life and work, underscoring the importance of serving and caring for people in a way that honors their unique journeys.

Join Gina Breslin in her interview with John Gilliland, the CEO and Founder of Investment Real Estate Group of Companies (IRE, LLC), known for the popular "Moove In" brand of self-storage units. In this episode, John shares his journey from growing up on a dairy farm to becoming an entrepreneur in the real estate industry. Despite John's personal hardships and business setbacks, his can-do attitude and resilience have driven his success. Tune in to gain insights into John's entrepreneurial journey, his philosophy on overcoming adversity, and his advice on seeking help and maintaining a positive mindset.

We've been sharing stories that we believe capture life-changing value and timeless principles about life and leadership. In our next series, we're sharing Kevin Lorah's story. Kevin Lorah joined North Group in 2018 after retiring from his 27-year career as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Medical Director / Chief of Neonatology. Through a conversation with Roger North, we see how the power of compassionate care can impact others' lives, from newborn patients to organizational leaders.

"A story gains true significance when it becomes a shared narrative, enriching the lives of those who hear it." - Unknown Our vision at North Group is to build a legacy by offering relevant, timeless principles and life-changing value to our clients. Interestingly, we often find ourselves on the receiving end of these gifts through the stories we hear every day. In our upcoming podcasts, we are excited to share stories that have deeply resonated with us. We will unpack these stories in subsequent blog posts, highlighting principles applicable to life and leadership.  Today, we start with the story of Ed Ferderbar, CEO of Baüen Unlimited. In this episode of The North Group Podcast, Roger North draws out Ed's story, starting early in his career working for large corporate organizations, to his current role as leader of the 6 brands falling under the Baüen name. Ed shares lessons learned through his experiences as a School Superintendent's son, as a young entrepreneur, and as the leader of a group of companies with a strong work ethic and commitment to family.

A new leader joining your team will maintain, strengthen, or disrupt your organization’s culture. When hiring, it is important to first determine the kind of impact you would like the new team member to have on your culture. In episode 33 of The North Group Podcast, Gina and Roger will share three key areas to consider when envisioning your ideal candidate, and interview approaches to discern how a candidate will be experienced by their future coworkers and influence your team.

Each of our clients is remarkably unique. However, a conversation we have with each client is the topic of self-awareness. And while self-awareness undeniably enriches a leader personally, our conviction lies in its broader purpose: benefiting those who surround you. In the latest episode of The North Group Podcast, Roger North and Josh Keefer explore three different levels of self-awareness. They discuss the cultural norms and behaviors that interfere with our attempts to influence others in a positive way. Roger and Josh share how a healthy sense of self-awareness can be powerful in serving those you love and lead.

When employees trust their leaders and colleagues, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their work. Trust encourages open communication, and fosters collaboration and innovation. It has been said that "trust is truth over time." In Episode 31 of The North Group Podcast, Gina Breslin and Kent Hartzler define the different levels of trust and discuss how you can work towards building trust in your organization.

Leaders impact everyone! At North Group, we have the privilege of developing leaders toward their highest potential. In episode 30 of The North Group Podcast, Roger North and Craig Schloneger discuss Leadership Development - its importance, how we define success, who it impacts, and a little bit about North Group's approach.

The health of your organization can greatly impact your most valuable resource...PEOPLE! In episode 29 of The North Group Podcast, Gina Breslin and Daryl Leisey discuss how our teams can be positively impacted by aligning our intentions to lead a healthy organization with our behaviors.

Jerry, Brian, and Leron are back for Part 2 of our succession planning podcast series! In Part 1, we discussed the definition of succession planning, timing, and common challenges of the process. In this episode, the team tackles North Group's approach to "quarterbacking" the process to guide business owners through the complexities of ownership and leadership transition. You'll hear Brian and Leron discuss: - Our first step in almost every situation, and why it adds value - How we engage existing advisors and the next generation - What elements make planning more or less complex

In our recent video, Roger North mentioned that the need for succession planning has never been greater as we approach the generational transfer of privately held businesses that make up 90% of the American economy. He also mentioned that mixing business, family, and economics often creates complexity. Join Jerry Murray, Brian Black, and Leron Lehman in this two-part podcast series, where they share how to navigate these challenges. In our first episode, listen as the team discusses: - Who would benefit from succession planning? - When should planning start (is it too late)? - What can I expect as planning begins? - What are the most common questions or problems we encounter in the process?

A simple question – “How can we help?” – started the journey of The Factory Ministries, where they walk alongside those facing issues of poverty in Eastern Lancaster County. Beginning as a youth center in a converted sewing factory (the story behind the name), their team now offers social services to empower individuals of all ages from the Together Community Center, previously the Paradise Elementary School building. In this episode of The North Group Podcast, Roger North and Natalie Mease share our final story – how The Factory Ministries and the “Together Initiative Network” work together to make our communities better. To view or listen to the other stories in our 25 Stories for 25 Years series, visit https://northgroupconsultants.com/ and view our blog and podcast pages.

If we were to start with just three words - clients for life - how many of you would already know what organization's story we have the privilege of sharing today? For Warfel Construction, that phrase is more than a motto…it's a mission. In addition to sustaining relationships with clients long after construction is completed, Warfel is differentiated by “running toward adversity.” Since 1911, generations of leaders have led employees and subcontractors with these principles in mind. In this episode of The North Group Podcast, Gina Breslin and Roger North tell Warfel’s story and share how “clients for life” and “running toward adversity” are more than just phrases on their website, but truths realized through their work every day. To view or listen to the other stories in our 25 Stories for 25 Years series, visit https://northgroupconsultants.com/ and view our blog and podcast pages.

Today, it is not uncommon for our work and personal lives to feel disconnected. In fact, “work-life balance” (or – as we like to define it – balanced living) is often associated with “leaving work at work.” But what happens when all the pieces of our lives are melded together? Since its inception in 1961, this has been the nature of life at Alderfer Glass Company. Based in Telford, PA, and serving Lehigh, Bucks, and Montgomery Counties, the team at Alderfer Glass prioritizes working, worshiping, and supporting the community surrounding them. This principle, in addition to valuing their employees as family, has brought the company to its 3rd generation of providing high quality glass products to commercial, residential, and retail customers. Roger North and Craig Schloneger tell Alderfer Glass Company’s story in the latest episode of The North Group Podcast. To view or listen to the other stories in our 25 Stories for 25 Years series, visit https://northgroupconsultants.com/ and view our blog and podcast pages.

From humble beginnings... Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) was founded by a Sunday School class in Hesston, Kansas in 1950. With that modest start, some 70+ years ago, MDS now coordinates thousands of volunteers each year to respond to disasters across the US, Canada, and Puerto Rico. In contrast to some disaster relief organizations, MDS is present in the communities they are restoring for months - even years - at a time. Yes, homes are rebuilt and communities are restored. More importantly, MDS responds, repairs, and rebuilds hope and faith in the people they serve. Josh Keefer and Roger North share MDS’ story in the latest episode of The North Group Podcast. To view or listen to the other stories in our 25 Stories for 25 Years series, visit https://northgroupconsultants.com/ and view our blog and podcast pages.

As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, another special organization is celebrating their 75th. Paul B. Zimmerman, Inc. seeks to serve their customers, employees, the church and community in humility and with a strong commitment to their faith.  Roger North and Daryl Leisey share the principles learned from this longstanding fourth generation family business in the latest episode of The North Group Podcast. To view the other stories in our 25 Stories for 25 Years series, visit https://northgroupconsultants.com/ and view our blog and podcast pages.

Blending great business practices, tremendous creativity, and living out a mission-based purpose is certainly not easy, but it is possible. Many of us are familiar with the outstanding example of this principle in our community, Sight & Sound Theatres. From humble beginnings with multimedia presentations in the 1970s, to bringing Bible stories to life as one of the top three theater destinations in the country, Sight & Sound Theatres and the Eshleman family have had a significant, eternal impact. Roger and Gina share the story in this episode of The North Group Podcast.

While it is easy to fall into the habit of “keeping your head down and getting work done,” lifting your eyes to focus on investing in a cohesive team makes a difference in the lives of your employees, within your organization, and ultimately in the surrounding community.  Over the course of their 94-year history, Risser’s Poultry has maintained this focus throughout the four generations that have led the company. With each generation bringing a unique skillset, Brian Black and Roger North share the Risser’s Story in the latest episode of The North Group Podcast.

25 years. 300 months. 1,304 weeks. 9,131 days. It’s been said that the older you get, the faster time goes. April 1, 1997 was the very humble beginning of North Group Consultants. On day one we had one client. Over the years we have been privileged to serve a few more. In 2022, we will be recognizing 25 clients whose stories should be told. In fact, without these organizations our vibrant communities simply wouldn’t be as vibrant. Over the course of the next year, we will be telling those 25 stories – blogs, podcasts, Instant Insights. There are many other stories we could tell. All of them worth telling. Honor. Humility. Humor. These three words perfectly describe Gary Houck, CEO (Chief Energy Officer) and Head Cheerleader of Houck Group, Inc. And, also serve as the company's core values.  In our first podcast of the "25 Stories for 25 Years" series, Roger and Gina share the story of how those values came to be. The Houck Group is a shining example of a business that by honoring its history and core values brings benefit to employees, families, and customers.  As a specialty contractor with over 300 employees, Houck's beneficial effect on the communities it serves is undeniable.

Recently, we’ve shifted our podcast focus to the unique challenges business leaders are facing in the current environment. Episode 17 encouraged leaders to remember and implement the disciplines of a healthy organization. In Episode 18, we focus on the strategy of self-care. Addressing challenging organizational issues with clarity and remaining steadfast in pursuing mission requires that leaders remain healthy. Carving out time to reassess priorities and create reasonable leadership expectations for each day is critical to organizational success. Join Roger North and Jerry Murray as they encourage investment in self-care and conclude this conversation in Episode 18.

Since we launched The North Group Podcast in 2020, we've focused on our theme of "Brought to Light," discussing the degree to which popular phrases are truthful, usable, and applicable to organizational, leadership, and cultural development (Episodes 1-16). In episodes 17 and 18, our focus will be on what we've been hearing in our daily conversations with you, as business leaders seeking the best for your organizations in the midst of facing the unique challenges of the current environment (e.g. employee recruitment, supply chain challenges, leadership exhaustion). When under pressure, it is easy to forget the disciplines of a healthy organization. However, these times can provide great opportunities to build cohesion and re-enforce alignment with the commitments of our organization. Roger North and Craig Schloneger encourage leaders with timeless principles as they begin the conversation in Episode 17.

First impressions carry significant weight in how we perceive and relate to others. And yet, as the saying goes, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” While a book cover can serve as a telling indicator of the content inside, it does not share the full story. In both reading materials and relationships, Roger and Kent encourage us to open the pages, suspend judgment and pursue curiosity. Enjoy the last conversation in our "Brought to Light" series!

When we have a goal in mind and want to ensure its accomplishment, we often decide to measure our progress. Is it true that what we measure is truly what “gets done?” In this episode of The North Group Podcast, Roger North and John Zeswitz discuss how to ensure we are measuring the right things while balancing the quantitative and qualitative.

It’s a hot, summer day. Despite the scorching temperatures, you decide to go for a walk. Later, you’re questioning this decision as you look down the shade-less lane and feel beads of sweat forming on your forehead. “Maybe,” you ponder, “I should walk the path along the creek instead.” As you head in that direction, you are unpleasantly surprised to find the entranceway to the shady, cool path blocked by the neighbors’ grumpy dog - asleep. Leaders frequently find themselves in similar situations. Rather than facing a grumpy dog, however, they must decide whether or not to wade into conflict for the benefit on the other side. How can we be sure the “shady path” is worth the extra effort? Is it ever better to “let the sleeping dog lie?” Roger North and Gina Breslin consider these questions together in this episode of The North Group Podcast.

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Perhaps this phrase evokes a positive reaction as you recall compliments you’ve received for taking after your parents, or living out your family’s values. On the other hand, the phrase may be one you would like to forget!  In this episode of The North Group Podcast, Roger North and Josh Keefer discuss (whether the apple has “fallen far” or not): - The importance of self-awareness and grace toward others in the practice of leadership -The effect of confirmation bias  - The value of recognizing both similarities and differences in generational leadership

Most of us desire to excel in our work. We focus our attention, energy, and resources on pursuing “greatness.” But with the call to a higher standard coming from countless directions, how can organizational leaders achieve a broader perspective and sustainability? And, is good ever “good enough?”  Roger North and Daryl Leisey consider these questions in their discussion about the phrase, “Good is the Enemy of Great.”

"You can’t teach an old dog new tricks." As we get older, or as we experience a pattern of success, we are susceptible to a diminishing willingness to try new things. How can leaders continue to learn and add value to our businesses, for the benefit of our colleagues, clients, and community? As we continue our series “Brought to Light,” Craig and Roger discuss the degree to which this phrase is truthful, usable, and applicable to organizational, leadership, and cultural development.

Transitioning successfully from one generation to another is one of the greatest challenges organizational leaders face. In this episode of The North Group Podcast, facilitated by John Zeswitz, Roger North (Founder/CEO) and Jerry Murray (President) discuss how they are "practicing what they are preaching" as they navigate generational transition at North Group.

Generational leadership transition is one of our most common inquiries at North Group – and now, we are in the midst of our own. In December, we announced that Jerry Murray has been named President, and Gina Breslin and Josh Keefer have joined as “Successor Partners.” How did we get to this point? How does an organization ensure they build a “bridge” to the future at the appropriate time, while still focusing on employee engagement and serving clients? In our latest podcast, John Zeswitz hosts a conversation about these important questions between Roger North, Gina Breslin, and Josh Keefer.

Slow and steady wins the race. As a leader, you may aspire to bring a steady presence to your business, but should those who want to succeed move slowly? Roger North and Jerry Murray discuss how to balance the tension between speed and steadiness. Additionally, they consider how to sustainably accelerate growth toward your highest potential.

Can you recall the sounds? Children playing, the squeak of swings, a whistle blowing signifying the end of recess. Can you recall the feeling of when your classmate hurled an insult your way? The stinging hurt caused tears to well up until you could blurt out, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me!” As adults, we recognize that words do indeed hold power - sometimes more than we wish. As leaders, how can we carefully discern our words for difficult conversations? How can we extend forgiveness to those who neglect to do so?  John Zeswitz and Roger North discuss this phrase in Episode 7 of The North Group Podcast!

Don’t sweat the small stuff! In your opinion, what counts as the “small stuff”? We’ve seen this phrase used to assure others we've handled all the details. On the other hand, we’ve seen it used to dismiss things that should hold more value! In Episode 6, Roger and Brian discuss how identifying the “small stuff” in our organizations can actually help us achieve our overarching goals.

You know what they say - “Fake it ‘til you make it!” In this episode, Roger and Gina bring to light the helpful and not-so-helpful aspects of this commonly-used idiom. When we find ourselves in uncomfortable and uncertain situations, can we get better if we “behave our way into believing?"

Is past behavior actually the best indicator of future behavior? Daryl Leisey and Roger North encourage us to be hopeful about the ability of people to change the patterns of their behavior. We can make judgments without being judgmental. Through The North Group Podcast, our team invites you into their discussions on a range of topics including organizational health and leadership development, while seeking to instill hope, build character, model an others-centered focus, and encourage balanced living. Currently, our theme is "Brought to Light" - conversations on long-standing, popular phrases focusing on what is true and not true.

Brought to Light - It Is What It Is (Ep. 3) by North Group Consultants