We have a deep understanding of direct response marketing and  we apply that knowledge to our storytelling.

Our Core Values govern everything we do. We chose the acronym I.M.P.R.O.V.E. because we are committed to continuous improvement.

I

Integrity

Integrity

Integrity is the state of being whole and complete. If a bike is missing a tire, it is out of integrity and doesn't work. The same principle applies to relationships and keeping your word. Having integrity means doing what you say you're going to do. If you keep your word, your relationships will be whole and complete, just like a functioning bike.

I

M

Mindset

Mindset



Mindset influences our actions and ultimately our results. Every day we determine our mindset by choosing three ways we want to show up in the world. For example: Courageous. Present. Confident.

M

P

Professional

Professional

We believe that being professional means planning ahead, showing up on time, dressing for success, communicating respectfully, and delivering exceptional results to our clients every time.

P

R

Relationship

Relationship

Strong business relationships are critical to our success. By getting to know our clients, we learn what they really want and need. This greater understanding allows us to serve them better. Plus, building relationships is fun and we can all use more of that!

R

O

Ownership

Ownership

Taking ownership means taking responsibility for a situation even when you're not at fault. It means taking action instead of standing around playing the blame game. Ownership requires a high level of self-awareness, one that allows you to set aside your emotions in order to find a solution to a problem.

O

V

Vitality

Vitality

If you’re not growing, you’re dying. Vitality is the state of being strong and active. At Grindstone, we believe nurturing our vitality allows us to perform at our best for our clients. Running. Lifting. Yoga. Swimming. Different means. Same result.

V

E

Excellence

Excellence

Excellence is non-negotiable at Grindstone. We continually refine our processes until we reach an exceptional level of excellence because that’s what our clients deserve. We’re committed to doing the right thing for the customer, every time.

E

Meet our team

Our expert team is fueled by passion.

Let's Get Started
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LANDON RHODES

Founder & CEO

Landon started Grindstone on the floor of his apartment in 2018. He wanted to find a way to help companies promote their products and services beyond the traditional door-to-door sales model. He also wanted to take the work ethic he developed on his family farm near Exeter, Nebraska and grow his own successful business.To keep himself sharp, Landon listens to podcasts and reads books focused on entrepreneurship and personal development. He even hosts his own podcast called Spark to Fire where he interviews other successful business leaders. He’s a firm believer in the mantra: “If you’re not growing, you’re dying,” and applies that mentality to everything he does.

Fun fact: Landon’s impressions are impeccable. Ask him to do anyone and he won’t disappoint.

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JENNA RHODES

Lead Video Strategist

Jenna graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University in 2011. Prior to joining Grindstone, she spent 10 years working for Stanley Black and Decker in various sales and marketing roles. As Lead Video Strategist, Jenna works hard on and off set to ensure each client's vision comes to life. Having conducted hundreds of interviews, she particularly enjoys asking thoughtful questions and then working with the editors to weave the answers into meaningful stories. She also has a knack for making clients feel comfortable in front of the camera, which is critical for the success of each project.

Fun fact: Jenna lived in Costa Rica for six months to study Spanish.

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SAM TROCKI

Digital Marketing Manager & IHM Coach

Sam has a passion for contributing to the growth of a business and building connections by developing savvy strategies and compelling content for social media campaigns. Her creative mind and constant curiosity help her think outside the box and bring any vision to life. Sam found her calling through extensive experience in Account Management and earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing. She finds joy in the little things, and can usually be found outside tending to her garden or exploring a new hiking trail.

Fun fact: Sam attended Tony Robbins first-ever Virtual Unleash the Power Within event and is excited to be a future fire walker at the next in-person event!

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COLLIN MCCARTHY

Audio Engineer

Collin started his deep dive into the audio production world back in high school when he began building a home studio in his parent’s basement. After high school, Collin moved out to Seattle to pursue music with his band. Since then, he has recorded 2 EP’s & 1 full-length album with the group, & is currently working on a solo project under the name CP/M, where he has released 2 songs thus far. After moving back to Lincoln, Collin became increasingly interested in the growing popularity of podcasts. His first production for a podcast was the title theme song for the show “Tech Refactored” at UNL’s College of Law, Nebraska Governance & Technology Center.

Fun fact: Collin’s been on tour from California to New York… & everything in between!

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TANNER SMEJDIR

Account Executive

Tanner grew up in a small town known as Friend, Nebraska. He eventually graduated from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, earning his Bachelor of Journalism degree. UNL is where Tanner found his passion for the media industry. After working several different jobs, he found a home at Grindstone. As an Account Executive, Tanner will be the direct point of contact between Grindstone and its clients. He values the relationships he has created and looks forward to the ones that are yet to happen.

Fun fact: Tanner had a short-lived child-acting career. At the ripe age of 4 months, he starred as “Baby Jesus” for the town’s Christmas program. He decided to retire after that as the fame was too much.

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