In this episode of Voices of Leadership, Chris Atwell sits down with Jamie for a grounded conversation about how real leadership is built over time. Rather than pointing to a single defining moment, Jamie reflects on how consistency, responsibility, and simply refusing to let the ball drop shaped his leadership journey. For him, leadership wasn’t claimed, it was earned by showing up and caring deeply about making people better.

A central theme of the conversation is the connection between leadership and fatherhood. Jamie shares how becoming a parent forced him to step fully into responsibility, a mindset that naturally carried into his professional life and continues to guide how he leads others.

Chris and Jamie also explore one of the toughest moments in Jamie’s leadership: navigating an employee’s substance abuse issue. Jamie discusses the difficult balance between grace and accountability, offering support while maintaining clear standards, and the reality that leaders can create opportunity, but individuals must choose growth.

Throughout the episode, Jamie emphasizes the importance of daily habits and self-discipline. From early mornings and exercise to faith, gratitude, and journaling, he explains how reflection creates clarity and presence. Looking back, journaling and goal setting are the habits he wishes he had embraced earlier, and now encourages in both his team and his family.

Looking ahead, Jamie shares his excitement about the future of the industry, particularly the opportunity to educate and develop the next generation. As technology evolves, he believes the role of reps is shifting from selling products to becoming trusted educators and problem solvers.

Chris and Jamie explore:

• Why leadership is built through consistency, not single moments
• How fatherhood shapes responsibility and leadership mindset
• Balancing grace and accountability in difficult people decisions
• The role of journaling, reflection, and intentional routines
• Resistance to change and adopting new technology
• Shifting from a sales mindset to an education-driven approach

This episode offers an honest, relatable perspective for leaders seeking to grow themselves, their people, and their impact within the manufacturers’ rep community.

Chris Atwell is the Founder of Mindset-Conquest, a leadership and mindset coach working with manufacturers’ rep agencies across North America. He helps leaders strengthen their mindset, elevate their leadership, and create the clarity and structure needed to grow their business and their people.