In this raw and insightful episode, host Mark Jewell sits down with Kurt Grimm, CEO and Founder of NutraDrip, a Kansas-based leader in drip irrigation solutions. Kurt opens up about the challenges of leading a growing team, the evolution of his business, and how being an introverted, conflict-avoidant leader pushed him to be more intentional. From stepping into uncomfortable conversations to building a strong culture across a remote team, Kurt shares a down-to-earth look at what it takes to lead well—even when it’s hard.
This episode is packed with practical leadership wisdom for anyone building a business in ag, navigating family dynamics, or looking to grow personally while growing their company.
Key Themes & Takeaways:
✅ Intentional Leadership = Doing the Hard Things
Kurt shares how being intentional often means stepping into what’s uncomfortable—whether it’s a tough conversation or making a critical decision you’d rather avoid.
✅ Family Roots & Entrepreneurial Grit
From hydroponic tomatoes in high school to a thriving irrigation company, Kurt’s journey blends family farming, entrepreneurial innovation, and resilience in a tough market.
✅ Culture as a Non-Negotiable
Hiring for culture fit is core to NutraDrip’s success. With 30% of the team remote across 8 states, Kurt emphasizes the challenge—and importance—of building strong cultural connection.
✅ Raising Up the Next Generation
NutraDrip targets young, ag-savvy hires—many from local farms—and gives them freedom to learn through experience. Kurt believes in giving autonomy with guardrails to let leaders emerge.
✅ Hard Lessons in People Management
The toughest (and most expensive) challenges have come from the wrong people in the wrong seats. Kurt shares lessons learned from avoiding conflict and the value of tackling misalignments early.
✅ Prioritizing What Really Matters
From delegating tasks to cutting unnecessary meetings, Kurt uses tools like the Eisenhower Matrix to stay focused on what actually moves the business forward.
Notable Quotes:
🗣️ "For me, being intentional is doing the hard things that I would otherwise avoid." – Kurt Grimm
🗣️ "Culture fit trumps skill set. We've learned the pain of getting that wrong." – Kurt Grimm
🗣️ "Young people don't do well with micromanagement. You’ve got to give them room to run—just not off a cliff." – Kurt Grimm
🗣️ "I like to hire people smarter than me. Leadership means knowing I’ve still got a lot to learn." – Kurt Grimm
🗣️ "Busy is not the goal. Intentionality is." – Mark Jewell
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