Unleashing Business Discipline Without Killing Creativity with Chris Hallberg

Описание: In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, Lisa Ryan sits down with Chris Hallberg, a veteran entrepreneur, business coach, and the original "Business Sergeant." As one of Colorado's first EOS Implementers, Chris has helped more than a hundred companies transform chaotic teams into aligned, accountable, and energized organizations. Together, they unpack the secrets behind building a powerful culture and resilient performance—whether on the shop floor or in the boardroom.


What You’ll Learn:


What EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) is and how to use it as the “operating system for your business”


How to identify when leadership, not the market, is your biggest roadblock


The “Business Sergeant” approach—combining military discipline and team accountability with entrepreneurial creativity


Tactical steps to boost engagement and select unicorn team members by design, not accident


Why selection and intentional hiring are more important than trying to “fix” team members


Building processes that reduce daily interruptions and make onboarding (and execution) seamless


How to leverage AI as a low-risk, high-return way to enhance your team’s effectiveness


Tips for doubling down on accountability—celebrating top performers and addressing underperformance head-on


Actionable Takeaways:


1. Clarify and Cascade Your Vision:


Create a simple, two-page business plan (like the Vision Traction Organizer) that answers: Who are we? Why do we exist? What makes us unique? Use it to align every employee or help them self-select out if they don’t fit.


2. Get the Right People in the Right Seats:


Focus your recruitment on people who want the job, get the job, and have the capacity to do the job. Use intentional selection processes (including pre-interview personality assessments) to build an all-in team.






3.Make Engagem ent Measurable:


Implement clear performance metrics and create an environment where great contributors are recognized—and those who aren’t, are held accountable.






4. Borrow Military-Level Discipline, Not Rigidity:


Foster personal responsibility and a team-first mindset, but keep space for initiative, creativity, and individual strengths.






5. Operationalize Processes with AI:


Use AI-powered platforms to centralize SOPs, policies, and team knowledge so everyone gets instant, accurate answers—freeing leaders from repetitive interruptions.






6. Commit to Continuous Improvement:


Set quarterly rocks (major priorities) and get everyone in a “90-day world” rhythm to maintain focus and momentum.






7. Invest in Unicorn Retention:


Put real effort—and budget—towards keeping and rewarding your all-star performers. Retention happens in the same place accountability lives.






Connect with Chris Hallberg:


Email: [email protected]


Online Course & Resources: Business Sergeant


LinkedIn: (Make sure to connect there as mentioned in the episode!)






Favorite Quote: “Great doesn’t happen on accident. Be intentional, commit to finding, onboarding, and developing the best humans—and create a system where greatness can thrive.” — Chris Hallberg