Episode 222 -- Jana Adams -- From Boardroom to School Fundraisers: One Woman's Path to Purpose

Stacked Keys Podcast

What does it truly mean to "get stuff done" while balancing executive leadership, family life, and personal growth? Jana Adams, Executive Director of Touchstone Energy Cooperative, masterfully answers this question through her lived experience overseeing nearly 700 electric cooperatives nationwide.
Throughout our conversation, Jana reveals the power of the cooperative business model to transform communities through relationship-building. "It is much more than that," she explains. "It is a community. It is giving back to the people that the cooperative serves, and that really is just like a family." This philosophy extends beyond business strategy into a life approach that values authentic connection over transactional relationships.
As we explore leadership styles, Jana's refreshing commitment to authenticity stands out. "If you had to give one word, that would be it," she says when describing effective leadership. "I am always the same person if I'm on stage in front of seven thousand people or if I'm on a podcast." This consistency creates trust—which Jana offers freely, believing most people deserve it until proven otherwise.
The discussion takes a practical turn when Jana shares her evolution in work-life balance. From completely blending her professional and family responsibilities to establishing clearer boundaries as her children grew older, her journey reflects the natural evolution many working parents experience. Her advice? "Never miss the game, never miss the swim meet. That email will be there tomorrow." Simple wisdom that recognizes the irreplaceable value of being present for life's important moments.
Perhaps most compelling is Jana's approach to challenges and goals. Rather than becoming overwhelmed by obstacles, she evaluates what she can control or influence, then focuses exclusively on those elements. This extends to her goal-setting, where she creates "multiple paths for success" instead of pinning satisfaction on a single outcome. This method builds resilience and satisfaction across both personal and professional domains.
Whether you're navigating leadership challenges, seeking better work-life harmony, or simply looking for practical wisdom on authentic living, this episode delivers valuable insights from someone who truly embodiments getting stuff done with purpose and intention. Listen now, and discover how small shifts in perspective might transform your own approach to life's competing demands.

Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

فصول

1. Introduction to Stacked Keys Podcast (00:00:00)

2. Jana Adams: Getting Stuff Done (00:01:52)

3. Cooperative Business Model and Relationships (00:05:34)

4. Humanity and Post-COVID Relationships (00:11:53)

5. Work-Life Balance and Priorities (00:18:19)

6. Trust, Attitude and Leadership Style (00:25:42)

7. Needs vs Wants and Goal Setting (00:31:29)

8. Marriage and Relationship Advice (00:38:52)

9. Faith, Family and Finding Balance (00:52:25)

10. Parenting College Students and Conclusion (01:04:10)