A promotional image for the "Against the Grain" podcast featuring a glass of whiskey, an open notebook with handwritten notes and a pen, and a black baseball cap with a patch that says "Life's About Choices". The background has the podcast's title and tagline, "Business, Lessons, Life, and Liquor."

Business lessons, life, and liquor. Each episode, Jon Umstead and co-host Nic Hess go against the grain to talk straight about entrepreneurship, intrapreneurship, leadership, and building something fun from nothing.

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Against the Grain Podcast

Against the Grain Available at Amazon September 15, 2026 - Paperback and Kindle - Pre-Order For Kindle Now

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Against the Grain Available at Amazon September 15, 2026 - Paperback and Kindle - Pre-Order For Kindle Now ~~

Jon Umstead Jon Umstead

AG Podcast Ep 5: Enthusiasm and Understanding

Starting a new venture can be exhilarating, but why do some businesses thrive while others fizzle out? Often, enthusiasm acts as the initial spark that propels entrepreneurs forward. However, sustaining that momentum requires more. It demands understanding, realistic expectations, and strategic focus. In this episode, Jon and Nic explore how enthusiasm fuels growth, why understanding your market and yourself is crucial, and the importance of intentional planning for long-term success.

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