#121- Failing Forward at Work: Leadership Lessons from Encore Wire’s Joshua Munoz

What would shift in your workplace if failure wasn’t feared—but embraced as a tool for trust, growth, and innovation?

In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I sit down with my friend and Leadership McKinney classmate Joshua Munoz, Production Manager at Encore Wire. Joshua leads a high-stakes operation where precision is critical—but what makes his leadership remarkable is the culture he helps foster: one that encourages learning through failure, prioritizes people, and creates space for growth.

 

From managing the complexities of copper rod production to mentoring his team through both wins and missteps, Joshua shares how intentional thinking, honest communication, and a growth mindset guide his leadership every day. He reminds us that leadership isn't about having all the answers—it's about building the kind of trust that allows people to grow.

 

With a deep heart for people and a hands-on leadership style, Joshua walks us through how small, consistent actions—like checking in, listening well, and staying grounded in faith—build the foundation for resilient, engaged teams.

 

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

• Why a “fail forward” mindset empowers innovation and personal ownership

• How trust is built through consistent, face-to-face connection

• What it looks like to apply a growth mindset in repetitive, high-pressure environments

• Why emotional check-ins are essential to team performance and morale

• How mentorship and accountability shape leadership maturity

• What “thinking that matters” looks like in a role where every decision impacts people and production

 

This episode is for anyone leading a team, building culture, or simply looking for ways to lead with more intention, grace, and grit. If you’ve ever questioned how to lead through failure or how to build trust in the everyday moments—this conversation will encourage and equip you.

 

Know someone who needs to hear this? Send it their way.

Connect with Josh: [e-mail]

 

More about Joshua:

Born and raised in North Richland Hills Tx, and graduated with my Bachelor of science in mechanical engineering from Midwestern State University. Following college I moved out to McKinney as a process engineer for Encore Wire. I have been with the company 7 years now and currently am the Rod Mill Manufacturing Manager. 

 

 

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