Turning Hardship into Differentiation (wsg John Katona)

Turning Hardship Into Differentiation | John Katona, Industrial Engineer at General Motors and CEO JKNK Studios, joins host Gregg Garrett to discuss his unique journey in life that includes a paralyzing car accident that re-rerouted, and in some ways accelerated, his journey. Of course, John speaks about his top three ranging from his father who taught him a unique business model, to his pastor who introduce him to making music with others, to an advisor who fostered a passion for engineering. And you have to hear what he says about the intimate nature of creating music with a team. About John Katona John Katona is a human factors engineer at GM, with a bachelors and masters degree in industrial and systems engineering from Oakland University.  He is also a record producer, runs JK (Not Kidding) Studios, and founded Bird Fight Records.  His other passion besides engineering and music is accessibility, both for the future of mobility and in his studio, which is completely wheelchair accessible. Show Highlights During this episode: Learning to be resilient [1:20] Starting is the hardest part of a transformation [3:30] John Katona – an emerging leader [5:24] Welcoming, John Katona [7:54] The “Top Three” Joe Katona, John’s Dad, who taught him how to build a life around a passion [10:46] Robert Van Til, who fostered a passion for engineering [16:05] Pastor Kevin Cook, who introduced John to making music with others [20:54] Many colleagues and bosses [25:45] The importance of inclusivity [27:30] The broad topic of mobility [33:45] Fight for what you deserve [34:15] Launching a music business [39:37] You have to hear this… The importance of valuing people [44:40] Stay in touch with John! [46:30] Additional Information Contact John Katona: John’s LinkedIn John’s Website John’s Instagram Contact Gregg Garrett: Gregg’s LinkedIn Gregg’s Twitter Gregg’s Bio Contact CGS Advisors: Website LinkedIn Twitter

Om Podcasten

You, Me, and Your Top Three is a podcast focused on exploring leadership in the connecting world. Specifically, the podcast invites leaders to tell stories, reflect, and discuss their views on: - disruptions in industry and society; - how they are leading transformations considering these disruptions - brave leadership to drive transformation. It is this last point where we focus most of the discussion, asking our guests to share their insights into the relationships they have with their “Top 3” closest advisors. It is our observation and experience that as the world connects, the importance of a diverse set of counselors is increasing in value. For some this may be a formal advisor who has been contracted on behalf of the company. For most this will be deep relationships in which they have been invested and nurtured. Through stories and discussion, we strive to celebrate the art of giving and receiving advice. The stories that are told are heartfelt and real. At the root we are exploring the process of knowledge building, relationship building, and perhaps most importantly, confidence building. After all, it takes a brave leader to battle the inertia that exists in industries, our organizations, and in ourselves. It is our hope that as successful leaders open up about around the subjects and the way in which they interact with their closest confidants, that our listeners will, in turn, reflect on their own “virtual board of advisors.” Over time they will then surround themselves with those who help them stretch toward greatness and lead bravely in the connecting world.