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.
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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!

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.