EPISODE · May 26, 2026 · 25 MIN
Time with a leader
from Fishing for Answers · host Fishing for Answers Podcast
Fishing for Answers: GDE CEO Mark Kimbell on Leadership, Relationships & Succession PlanningMarlin and Jaerica welcome special guest Mark Kimbell, CEO of Gallatin Department of Electricity, who shares his background as an electrical engineer and GDE’s growth since 2012. He emphasizes leadership principles of honesty, openness, integrity, and strong relationships, including empowering employees through training and educational opportunities. Mark discusses balancing career and family, his children’s engineering paths, and the influence of faith and values. Looking ahead to his planned retirement in August of 27, he outlines structured succession planning with the board and department-level backups, and personal plans including a long Pacific cruise and more time with grandchildren. He reflects on receiving the TVPPA Distinguished Service Award and APPA’s Mark Crisson Leadership Award, and explains founding the Valley Public Power Leadership Academy to strengthen TVA–local power company relationships. He closes with advice to treat people well and help everyone succeed. #leadership #retirement #fishingforanswers #f4a 00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:23 Mark’s GDE Journey02:33 Growth Awards and Industry Impact03:46 Leadership Through Relationships04:23 Core Leadership Principles06:00 Empowering Teams and Training07:11 Leadership at Home and Family08:49 Communication Style and Curiosity10:38 Retirement Plans and Succession13:10 Preparing Personally for Transition13:24 Pacific Cruise Plans14:06 Family Time and Grandkids14:32 Faith and Values15:32 Awards and Recognition17:00 VPPLA Origin Story19:59 Relationships Built Through VPPLA21:21 Community Legacy at GDE23:10 Leadership Wisdom to Close24:35 Final Thanks and Sign Off
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Time with a leader
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