“Look in those white spaces” - Todd Grindal of SRI

In this episode of Land and Lead, Dr. Josh Elmore speaks with Dr. Todd Grindal, President of SRI Education, about stepping into a senior leadership role during a period of significant disruption. Todd reflects on his nine-year progression at SRI, moving from leading projects to overseeing the full education division.

Todd entered the president role as federal funding priorities were shifting, creating uncertainty for ongoing projects, future grants, and the broader education research field. He shares how humility, listening, and learning became essential early practices, especially as he transitioned from peer and collaborator to organizational decision-maker. Rather than assuming he had all the answers, Todd focused on understanding people’s motivations and what was getting in their way.

The conversation explores how Todd built strategic clarity during crisis by emphasizing excellent work, unique value, mission and impact. He also discusses the need for transparent decision-making and the importance of looking for what is missing in the data. His “white space” analogy offers a powerful reminder for leaders navigating complexity, uncertainty, and change.

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