Monthly Coach Highlight – Lisa Kinney, Leadership & Culture Coach

Newsroom | 3 min read | July 31, 2025

- By Elsa Chase, Digital Marketing Specialist

This month, we sat down with Leadership & Culture Coach Lisa Kinney to learn a little more about her, what brought her to Nexstar, and what she’s passionate about.

Q: What brought you to Nexstar?
A: I began my journey at Nexstar as a Recruiting & Retention Coach, where my focus was on helping members find great talent and keep them. As the needs of our members evolved, I was able to take my background in leadership and transition into the role of Leadership & Culture Coach. Although this is my first role in the trades, the opportunity to be part of this industry has been truly life-changing. After spending my entire career in corporate environments, I can confidently say that this is the most fulfilling and rewarding work I’ve ever done.

Q: Was there someone who inspired or influenced you to join Nexstar?
A: I met Julian Scadden at the gym we both belonged to, and he shared the mission of Nexstar with me years ago. Knowing what he knew about me, Nexstar, our members, and the trades – he must have known it would be a great match, and it has been amazing!

Q: What does your typical day look like as a coach?
A: Every day is different – which is part of the fun! Some days are packed with coaching calls – helping members to develop strong leaders or improve the culture of their business. Other days, I’m focused on identifying new services we can offer to better support our members. And then there are days I’m on the road working with members to create their mission, vision, and values, or supporting them in developing their current leaders and preparing future ones. I love the variety!

Q: What’s the best part of your job and why?
A: The most rewarding part of my job is that I get to connect with members on a personal level. It’s inspiring to work with senior leaders who are deeply committed to becoming the best versions of themselves and who truly understand the power of strong leadership. I’m fortunate to be in a role where I get to witness that kind of growth and dedication every day. I have the best job in the world, and I’m so grateful for the relationships I’ve built, both across the membership and within the Nexstar team.

Lisa and her friend Lauren at a 10k race in Duluth last October.

Q: What’s one of your greatest superpowers?
A: I’ve been told I have a knack for being direct with feedback with an approach of care and tact. My goal is to never hurt feelings, but to be honest in a way that supports growth. I believe that people deserve honesty, and I’ve worked hard to master the art of giving tough feedback in a way that’s both respectful and impactful. I always strive to give members feedback that I know will benefit them when they hear it!

Q: What do you do to relax when you’re not at work?
A: I enjoy spending quality time with my family – whether we’re playing games, working on puzzles, taking walks, or exploring the woods together. We’re big Timberwolves fans, so catching a game is always a highlight! At home, we enjoy the company of our three dogs, and most recently, I’ve found appreciation for quiet moments of solitude in our new sauna.

Q: What are some of your passions?
A: It may be crazy to say work is my passion, and while it isn’t my only passion, it truly is one of my passions! Without a doubt, I know that the impact a healthy company culture and strong leaders have on people within a company is enormous. Focusing on culture can be a game-changer for a company’s success, and I love being a part of that journey.

From the left: Lisa’s son (Eli), Lisa, her husband (Jay) and her daughter (Zoe) at Lisa’s wedding last August.


Interested in learning more? Join Lisa for a Leadership & Culture workshop in Bloomington, MN from September 16-18. Registration can be found HERE.

If you’re not a Nexstar member and are interested in learning more, please click HERE and someone from our team will be in touch with you!


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