Ep. 096 - Mike Renna - CEO SJI
/Show Summary
There’s a certain kind of leadership you don’t have to explain. You can feel it.
In this conversation with Mike Renna, the CEO of SJI, what stood out wasn’t just what was said about values—but how consistently those values showed up in decisions, culture, and outcomes over time.
Integrity. Authenticity. Humility.
Not as words—but as operating principles.
We explored what it actually takes to build a culture where people trust leadership…where innovation is expected…where change is embraced…where people genuinely want to explore their career - where ever that takes them.
What this episode explores:
How early life experiences shape leadership values and decision-making
Why integrity isn’t optional if you want real leadership
The connection between authenticity and trust in leadership curation
What it takes to build a culture people don’t want to leave
How values show up in moments of change and uncertainty
Why innovation is often a byproduct of culture—not a mandate
The difference between developing people vs. trying to replicate yourself
How organizations sustain culture over decades—not just define it once
The role of inclusion, safety, and service as lived—not stated—values
Why leadership is learned…not inherited