Change is hard, but it’s also where real growth happens. In a recent episode of the Quade podcast, Igniting the CEO Within, hosted by Mark McFatridge, guest Matt Hupp shares his story of navigating change—from corporate America to entrepreneurship. It’s packed with honest insights, practical advice, and a dose of inspiration.
Listen to the full episode here: Igniting the CEO Within – Leadership in Times of Change with Matt Hupp.
Why It’s All About the “Why”
Matt’s journey reminds us that during times of change, people want clarity. Whether you’re restructuring a team or launching something new, employees and stakeholders are asking:
- Why is this happening?
- How does this affect me?
- What’s next?
As Matt explains, addressing these questions openly doesn’t just reduce anxiety—it builds trust and motivates people to move forward with purpose.
Lessons from a Recession
Back in 2008, Matt was at Simon Property Group, helping lead initiatives during the Great Recession. Resources were tight, but creativity was abundant. His team rolled out a nationwide recycling program across hundreds of properties—turning a major challenge into a cost-saving opportunity.
This chapter of Matt’s story is proof that even in tough times, innovation can thrive with the right mindset.
From Corporate Comfort to Entrepreneurial Grit
Taking the leap from corporate security to building a company from scratch isn’t for the faint of heart. Matt shares how he and his team grew a business from three properties to a $125 million enterprise. His advice? Sometimes you just have to act—plan as you go, lean on others for support, and be willing to make mistakes.
What Makes a Great Leader During Change?
Matt’s experiences reveal a few key traits for leading through uncertain times:
- Clear Communication: Be upfront about what’s happening and why.
- Empathy: Acknowledge how changes impact your team.
- Vulnerability: It’s okay to admit you don’t have all the answers.
- Trust: Build confidence by being consistent and transparent.
The Importance of Community
At the heart of Matt’s story is the value of connection. “Everybody needs a community,” he says. After leaving the company he helped build, Matt leaned into his local entrepreneurial network—and it made all the difference.
That sense of belonging and collaboration is what we aim to foster at Quade. Through our CEO peer groups, leaders can connect with like-situated peers to share ideas, tackle challenges, and grow together.
Join the Conversation
If you’re navigating change and looking for a community to lean on, we’d love for you to join us. Take our CEO Mindset Assessment to learn more about your leadership style, or schedule a call to see how Quade can support your journey.
And don’t forget to tune into the latest episode of Igniting the CEO Within:
Leadership in Times of Change with Matt Hupp.