What if the key to leading across 850+ locations isn't control, but clarity?

Shawn and AJ sit down with Kurt Gengenbacher of ATI Physical Therapy to unpack how values, leadership, and alignment come to life inside a sprawling, people-first organization. Kurt brings a unique blend of physical therapy roots and leadership development expertise, revealing how ATI empowers local autonomy while staying anchored in consistent values like trust, collaboration, and innovation.

From rolling out new values across 900 leaders, to redefining strategic planning through the lens of polarity management, this episode is packed with practical wisdom for anyone looking to scale culture without losing soul. If you're wrestling with how to support leaders, create alignment, and drive development at scale, without burning people out, this conversation is for you.

Additional Resources:

Connect with Kurt on LinkedIn

Learn more about ATI Physical Therapy

Connect with Shawn on LinkedIn

Connect with AJ on LinkedIn

Learn more about humanworks8

Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn

Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Key Takeaways:

• Autonomy thrives when paired with clear expectations
• Values need behavioral definitions to stick
• Polarities require managing, not solving
• Strategic goals must guide daily decisions
• Trust builds through consistent communication