Hillbilly PhD. (part 2)

In case you missed part 1 of my interview with Rocky Noe, we talked about management advice, mentors, and the best and worst parts of managing people.

In part 2, I’ll be sharing a little deeper dive into the mind of Rocky Noe, Hillbilly PhD. Enjoy!

Phil: What’s your favorite management story?

Rocky: There are so many it is hard to decide, but one that really stands out is how Booker Noe revolutionized the bourbon industry because of his passion. He did a lot of things for his business and the stories are to numerous to mention, but one really stands out for me. Booker really had an affection for his grandfather, Jim Beam. When Booker retired from Jim Beam he was asked what he wanted. He said he wanted a lifetime supply of bourbon just way his grandfather liked it, uncut, unfiltered and hand dipped straight from the barrel. Booker was always a very generous man. He would share his retirement gift with all who visited him. It became so popular that Booker’s True Barrel Bourbon was developed. That gave birth to what is now know as the "Small Batch" industry.

Phil: Why do you keep managing people?

Rocky: Having the opportunity to lead people in learning how to work with at risk teens has increased my sphere of influence exponentially. I love to see grow and develop. I have learned that the best way for me to be successful is to help others to be successful. I cannot gain any success through the failure of others and just really enjy be a part of others journey.

Phil: What is your best advice for managers just getting started managing?

Rocky: Be patient. Take time to learn from great mentors. Develop you mission and stick with it.

Phil: What are some of your favorite management resources (books/blogs/whatever)?

Rocky: I am an avid reader. I cannot read enough. I also really enjoy blogs. They are so cool because you can have professional advice almost instantly and you can develop very meaningful professional relationships through them. There are some great resources out there. I think everyone can benefit from some of my favorites: Trevor Gay’s Simplicity is the Key, Brian Ward’s FACET Leadership model, Slacker Manager,  and the Employee Engagement Network, to name a few.

Phil: Anything else you’d like to share?

Rocky: I love your mantra of Make it Great. It is simple and direct. Everybody can do it. Most people will settle good when with a little extra effort or planning they can Make it Great. It does not take any more talent than anyone else to decide to make it Great. It just takes the belief that you can and the persistence to do it.

Phil: Thanks for making time to share your stories with us Rocky. It’s inspiring to learn from you!

Barrels photo credit to Neeta Lind