Your Intentions Don't Matter with Trevor Blondeel

Intentions don’t matter.

At least not as much as most leaders think.

In this week’s episode of People First, I sat down with Trevor Blondeel, founder of Manufacturing Greatness, and we unpacked a moment many leaders quietly recognize.

Trevor was running a plant meeting. He explained the plan. Gave direction. Walked out thinking everything was clear. Then his assistant pulled him aside. “You really pissed those guys off.” That moment led to a realization many leaders eventually face:

Good intentions don’t guarantee good leadership. Because leadership isn’t judged by what we meant. It’s judged by how our actions land with others.

In our conversation we explore:

• Why good leaders sometimes damage relationships without realizing it
• The disconnect that often exists between leadership and the front line
• Why curiosity is one of the most underrated leadership skills
• The three conversations that can transform how teams work together

1️⃣ How are we showing up?
2️⃣ What are the expectations?
3️⃣ Where does accountability sit?

Simple conversations.
But most teams never actually have them.

If you lead people — whether in manufacturing, healthcare, tech, or anywhere in between — this episode is a reminder that the real work of leadership isn’t control. It’s connection.

🎧 Watch or listen here:
 [YouTube link]

And a question for you: When was the last time you asked someone, “How am I showing up for you?”