Manufacturing Culture Podcast

episode artwork

Jim Mayer

09 July 2025

49m 50s

Culture Is How They Feel on Sunday: HR Huntsman on Mindset, Leadership & Legacy

00:00

49:50

What does it take to rewrite your story—and help others do the same?

In this unforgettable episode, Jim Mayer sits down with HR Huntsman: speaker, strategist, and founder of Leader’s Edge. From a turbulent childhood in the New Mexico desert to building global humanitarian projects and mentoring the next generation of leaders, HR’s journey is a masterclass in intentional transformation.

You’ll hear how a single conversation reshaped his definition of success, why mindset matters more than circumstances, and how real leadership means empowering others—not commanding them. Along the way, HR delivers raw insights on creative conflict, workplace culture, and what it takes to architect a future worth building.

If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with more purpose, create a culture people believe in, or leave a legacy that actually means something—this episode is for you.

Takeaways

  • Culture is how your people feel about work on Sunday.
  • HR's childhood shaped his desire to change the world.
  • Success is not the goal; being useful is.
  • Leadership is about empowering others, not commanding them.
  • Investing in young leaders is crucial for future success.
  • Work is a noble endeavor that should be respected.
  • Creative conflict is essential for innovation.
  • You can architect your own future intentionally.
  • Public speaking is a privilege to inspire others.
  • Mindset is key to personal transformation.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker Fun
  • 07:22 Defining Culture in the Workplace
  • 09:46 HR's Early Life and Influences
  • 15:04 The Impact of John Simmons
  • 18:38 Evolution of Leadership Philosophy
  • 20:52 Creating Leaders Edge Program
  • 24:19 Influential Leaders and Mentors
  • 25:19 The Essence of Leadership
  • 26:58 The Impact of Public Speaking
  • 28:40 Mindset and Personal Transformation
  • 34:56 Architecting a New Future
  • 38:38 The Future of Leadership in Manufacturing
  • 45:36 Creative Conflict and Workplace Dynamics