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In this episode, Hillary is joined by Ryan Fortner, Director of Operations for William Valve, for a raw and honest conversation about leading a legacy brand through change. With decades of operational experience and a no-excuses leadership style, Ryan shares what it really takes to level up performance while staying rooted in values.

They talk about what it means to scale a people-first company, the pressures of modern leadership, and why culture eats strategy for breakfast. From shop floors to boardrooms, Ryan brings a grounded perspective on the future of business.

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TIME STAMPS

[01:51] Ryan’s Background and Family Business Roots
[06:14] Turning Around a 1939 Legacy Brand
[09:43] Operations vs. Culture — Finding the Balance
[13:27] How to Lead Without Burning Out
[17:52] The Power of Owning Mistakes
[22:11] Lessons from Goettl’s Growth Journey
[26:49] Advice for Today’s People-Centric Leaders


ABOUT RYAN FORTNER

Director of Operations for William Valve