Against the Grain

Jon Umstead

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Entrepreneurship
Updated Weekly

What rule-breakers already know. Entrepreneur, executive, and distiller Jon Umstead, with co-host Nic Hess, shares unconventional business and life lessons. For founders, leaders, and anyone tired of doing it by the book.

5d ago

It Ain't Build It and They Will Come

Jon and Nic sit down with Kim Bartley for a wide-ranging conversation about Jon’s upcoming book, the ideas behind it, and why the book’s themes resonate with real-world businessexperience. Kim brings a strong marketing lens from her 31-plus years at White Castle and her decade of teaching at Ohio State, giving the discussion practical weight and perspective. They cover the book as a whole, including constraints, adaptability, reputation, and the discipline required to turnentrepreneurial vision into something real. Along the way, the conversation branches into branding, feedback, work-life harmony, and how memorable products and experiences stick with people.
Aug 28

Product Pairing

Jon and Nic talk through how products gain momentum when they travel together, with examples from retail, software, and food pairings like chicken and waffles. They also cover how substitution can open new markets, why anticipation matters before launch, and why leaders should stay close to frontline execution.
Aug 21

Product Placement

Jon and Nic welcome guest Ryan Berry, founder of Berry Digital Solutions and part of the team behind the Logan County Chronicle, to discuss the importance of product placement. Together, the group connects advertising, storytelling, and real-world examples from phones, bourbon, newspapers, and movie placements.
Aug 14

Marketing Earns Attention, Branding Earns Trust

Jon and Nic welcome their first guest, Kevin Morron, for a conversation about brand story, authenticity, and how personal identity shows up in work, recruiting, and even Bigfoot fandom. The episode centers on the idea that marketing earns attention while branding earns trust, then follows that thread through real examples from the Coast Guard, manufacturing, leathercraft, and sales.
Aug 12

Process Equals Consistency

Jon and Nic dive into the core of what makes outcomes predictable and reliable. Nic shares how accountability transforms mere routines into powerful drivers of results, whether in farming, moonshining, or business. They explore why many entrepreneurs stumble by winging it, and how crafting clear, repeatable processes, like sales systems and quality checks, can turn chaos into achievement. Plus, they reveal why embracing feedback, even negative reviews, is essential in refining your approach for better outcomes. champaignshine.com
Jul 31

Enthusiasm and Understanding

Starting a new venture can be exhilarating, but why do some businesses thrive while others fizzle out? Often, enthusiasm acts as the initial spark that propels entrepreneurs forward. However, sustaining that momentum requires more. It demands understanding, realistic expectations, and strategic focus. In this episode, Jon and Nic explore how enthusiasm fuels growth, why understanding your market and yourself is crucial, and the importance of intentional planning for long-term success.
Jul 24

Reputation Travels Faster Than Advertising

Jon and Nic explore the powerful influence of reputation over advertising, emphasizing how your brand's image travels faster and further than any marketing message. They discuss real-world examples and practical strategies for cultivating a strong reputation that sustains business success. Get more at champaignshine.com
Jul 17

Implosions Happen (Get Over It)

Jon and Nic share personal stories, business insights, and a few laughs while diving into lessons learned from moonshine mishaps and the importance of purpose in your work.
Jul 10

Just Go For It

Jon and Nic explore the power of taking risks, the importance of paying attention to detail, and challenging the status quo to foster innovation. They share personal stories, including Jon’s journey with Buffalo Trace, and practical advice on asking for what you want. Get info about the book Against the Grain at champaignshine.com.
Jun 26

Embracing Nonconformity

Dive into the inaugural episode of the Against the Grain podcast, where hosts Jon and Nic explore the power of going against the herd. They share personal stories, business insights, and practical questions to challenge habits and spark deliberate change—perfect for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone eager to find a unique path. Get info about the book Against the Grain at champaignshine.com.

10 Episodes

What rule-breakers already know. Entrepreneur, executive, and distiller Jon Umstead, with co-host Nic Hess, shares unconventional business and life lessons. For founders, leaders, and anyone tired of doing it by the book.

Creator

Jon Umstead
Years Active

2026
Episodes

10
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© Jon Umstead
Show Website

Against the Grain