Pile of Scrap
by Sierra International Machinery
Pile of Scrap’s real and raw discussions give unmatched insight into the 5th most dangerous industry in the country. Travel across the nation with John Sacco, Sierra International Machinery President, as he reveals the truth behind recycling and waste facilities in America. The environmental and economic impacts of this $500 billion-dollar industry go unnoticed by most, but the work the men and women in this industry do is vital to the save the world and our natural resources.
Episodes
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EP.92 Table Scraps: The Challenge Reunion
🍽️ Table Scraps: The Challenge - Reunion Edition In this episode of Pile of Scrap the cast of Table Scraps: The Chef's Challenge returns to the table, this time to reflect, reconnect and relive the moments that didn't make the final cut. From behind-the-scenes laughs to unexpected lessons, host...
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Ep.92 Rethinking Recycling Media with Tim Ridderbos
Live from the show floor at the ReMA 2025 Convention, John Sacco sits down with Tim Ridderbos to talk about the evolving media landscape in the recycling industry. From cell phone videos to full-scale advocacy projects, Tim shares how content creation is transforming the way we communicate value,...
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Ep. 91 Talking BUDDY with Stuart Kagan
Join John Sacco in the latest episode of Pile of Scrap, featuring special guest Stuart Kagan. Dive into Sierra's journey of onboarding with BUDDY as Stuart shares insights on the rigorous vetting process he conducts. Discover how BUDDY connects the right companies to buy and sell recycled...
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Ep. 90: Behind the Scenes at Sierra Recycling and Demolition with Stuart Kagan
Join John Sacco and Mr. Scrappy himself Stuart Kagan for an exclusive tour of Sierra Recycling and Demolition—described by Stuart as a Hollywood set of recycled metals facilities. In this episode, we dive into the impressive efforts to reduce our carbon footprint, including the installation of…
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Ep 89: Building the Family Business with the Mims Family
Join us on the latest episode of "Pile of Scrap" as host John Sacco explores the intricate dynamics of building and sustaining a family business. Discover the personal and professional challenges of working closely with loved ones, from the ground-level tasks of sorting materials to the strategic...
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Ep. 88: Words Matter: Fighting for the Future of the Recycled Materials Industries
In this urgent mini-episode of Pile of Scrap, host John Sacco shares alarming insights from the recent BIR convention in Copenhagen. Discover the stark regulatory changes in the EU that could redefine the global recycling industry, labeling valuable recycled materials as mere 'waste'. John...
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Ep. 87: Growing Up in the Recycled Metals Industry with Lincoln Brothers
Join host John Sacco as he sits down with the Lincoln Brothers on the latest episode of Pile of Scrap! Discover what it's like to grow up in the recycled metals industry, leave it, and then make a triumphant return. In this engaging episode, the Lincoln Brothers share their unique journey,...
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Ep. 86: Rebranding Recycling: Collin Kelly on the ReMA Vision
In this episode of Pile of Scrap, host John Sacco welcomes Collin Kelly, the newly appointed chairman of the Recycling Manufacturers Association (ReMA). Dive into the significant rebranding efforts from ISRI to ReMA and discover the strategic reasons behind this pivotal change. Collin shares his...
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Ep. 85: Brothers in Arm
Join John Sacco in the latest episode of "Pile of Scrap," co-hosted by the esteemed Cozzi brothers, Frank and Albert. Together, they delve into the transformative journey of the recycled metals industry across three generations. From evolving practices at recycled metal facilities to shifts in...
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Ep. 84: Recycling Resurgence: Insights from BIR President Susie Burrage
Tune in as host John Sacco sits down with Susie Burrage OBE, the current President of BIR, for an insightful conversation on the organization's future. Learn about the exciting release of 'Recyclist,' a hard copy magazine diving deep into the latest developments in the waste and recycled metals...
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Ep: 83: Building BUDDY with Born scrappy
Join John Sacco as he sits down with Lisa and Stuart Kagan. From their early days working at the grassroots level of the recycled material industry to spearheading innovation, the Kagans share their journey of building BUDDY — a unique marketplace designed by recyclers, for recyclers. Dive into...
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Ep. 82: The Economic State for Recyclers with Jason Schenker
Live at ISRI 2024, top-ranked Economist and Futurist Jason Schenker joins John Sacco as they discuss the current Geopolitical state, the U.S. economy and inflation rates. They also dive into a possible “Cold War 2” scenario and what that means for the Metal Recycling Industry.
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Ep.81: with Brian Hennessy
Join John Sacco, former ISRI chairman, as he interviews current ISRI chair, Brian Hennessy. John and Bryan discusses his term as ISRI chairman, and the experience Brian has had over the last two years. They discuss current, past and future of ISRI and his thoughts as the outgoing chairman of his...
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Ep. 80: Dirty Jobs
Join John Sacco as he discusses the importance of the recycled materials industry, addressing the common misconceptions and the negative imagery associated with the term "scrap." Emphasizing the need for rebranding and using precise language to positively change the industry's public perception....
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Ep. 79: The Reality of Recycling at Scrap Expo 2023
At the Scrap Expo 2023 convention in Louisville, KY, John Sacco brings the podcast to the center stage as he talks with Jay Robinovitz (Alter Trading President & CEO), Danny Rifkin (MetalX President & CEO), George Adams (SA Recycling CEO), and Kevin Gershowitz (Gershow Recycling Vice President)....
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Ep. 78: Trailblazing A Sustainable Future with Brian Henesey
Host John Sacco and ISRI Chairman Brian Henesey discuss the challenges, opportunities, and goals of ISRI and the recycling industry as a whole. Highlighting the importance of recycled materials, the need for advocacy, and the importance of increased member engagement for the betterment of the...
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Ep. 77: Recycling Reimagined with Michael Maslansky
In this eye-opening episode, discover how a simple shift in language can revolutionize perceptions. Join host John Sacco as he engages with communication expert Michael Maslansky, exploring the rebranding of the recycled materials industry. From redefining raw materials to spotlighting its vital...
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Ep. 76: Young Minds of Today with JASON Project Winners
Host John Sacco sits down with the talented young minds of the ISRI 2023 JASON Learning Project. The winners – Barbie Lin, Ashvin Saini, Yaesung Kim, and Bailey Maltese – delve into their creative processes, motivations, and aspirations behind their designs. Although they’re already making huge...
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Ep. 75: A Perfect Fit with Bill Sulak
We welcome Bill Sulak, the new president of Ferrous Processing and Trading (FPT), onto the podcast! John and Bill discuss Bill’s transition into the position and the compatibility between FPT and Cleveland Cliffs, highlighting the value placed on FPT's leadership and industry expertise. Sharing…
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Ep. 74: Life, Industry, and Legacy with Bruce Blue
Bruce Blue, ISRI Lifetime Achievement Award Winner and President of Freedom Metals, Inc., joins the podcast at the 2023 ISRI National Convention to discuss the changes he’s witnessed in the recycling industry over the years and the importance of spreading awareness about the industry’s societal...
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Ep. 73: Passion with A Purpose with the Levells
Host John Sacco sits down with Michael and Lindy Levell of Lakeside Auto Recyclers at the 2023 National ISRI Convention, where they share their passion for educating others about the importance of the recycling industry. Together, they delve into the importance of reshaping the perception of…
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Ep. 72: The Future of the Family Business
At the National 2023 ISRI Convention in Nashville, TN, John Sacco invites George Adams’ sons, Kurtis, Kalvin, and Tyler on the podcast to delve into their roles as leaders of SA Recycling’s many yards and shed light on their commitment to sustainability and innovation within the industry....
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Ep. 71: From A Global Perspective with Tom Bird
At the 2023 ISRI National Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, John Sacco sits with Tom Bird, President of the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR), to shed light on the obstacles the recycling industry is facing. While emphasizing the importance of navigating conflicts and trade regulations…
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Ep. 70: Rooted in Family Values with the Goldstein Brothers
With a 125-year history, Alter Trading Corporation recently celebrated their anniversary in New Orleans, Louisiana. As fourth generation to head Alter Trading, Jeff, Rob and Rich Goldstein have managed to maintain a culture reflecting the traits of a small family business despite their growing...
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Ep. 69: Inspire to Aspire with Jennifer Betts
Jennifer Betts, now metal enthusiast, graduated from Indiana University as a major in finance. After stumbling upon the metals recycling industry at a job fair, the rest is history! Now, as a voice of metal recyclers everywhere, Jennifer has taken matters into her own hands to give the industry…
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Ep. 68: The Truth About Metals
Are you still using words like “scrap,” “junk,” or “waste” in your messaging? C’mon, get with the times… It’s 2023! For the first episode of the new year, John Sacco sits down to give us some insight into how the recycling industry touches our daily lives. Diving deep into the truths of specific...
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Ep. 67: A Struggling Workforce with Lizette Patterson
The recycling industry has always had struggles with finding manual labor workers. But nowadays, as we’re living in the aftermath of the COVID pandemic, finding those willing to work outside their homes has hit an all-time low. Lizette Patterson, Founder and CEO of Cazador Consulting Group in...
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Ep. 66: Managing Your Yard and Your Industry with Jay Robinovitz and Brett Ekart
At the ScrapExpo event in Louisville, Kentucky, John Sacco is joined by President and CEO of Alter Trading Jay Robinovitz to discuss all the nuts and bolts of running a facility. The two talk topics across the board such as managing your business’s expenses, investing in spare parts, and…
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Ep. 65: A Recycler’s Societal Obligation with Recycling Today’s Jim Keefe
Having over 30 years working with Recycling Today Media Group, Executive President Jim Keefe gives us sharp insight into what it’s like working as a content publisher for the recycling industry. At the ISRI Summer Meetings in D.C, John and Jim talk about the enormous evolution in technology that...
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Ep. 64: A Bigger and Brighter ISRI with ISRI Chairman Brian Henesey
Ready to step up and lead the Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI), new ISRI Chairman Brian Henesey is prepared to get the ball rolling to change this industry. Brian and John Sacco sit down at the ISRI Summer Meetings in D.C. to discuss what it’s going to take to educate our youth and...
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Ep. 63: Brothers and Business with Texas Recycling’s Litman Brothers
Brothers Joel and Craig Litman of Texas Recycling in Dallas, Texas, join John Sacco to chat about the supply of material made from virgin pulp and recycled fiber and the importance of companies following through with their word on creating more recyclable packaging. Over the years, the brothers...
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Ep. 62: Recycling Warriors with the Foons
Mikey and Elliott Foon of Admiral Metals join the podcast with their father, Steven, to talk over some of the hottest topics in the industry right now. As recycling slowly makes its way out from the top-numbered deadliest of industries, the Foon brothers agree that we have nothing to thank other...
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Ep. 61: Acquiring Success with SA Recycling's Adams Brothers
The Adams brothers of SA Recycling joined the podcast to talk about what makes their company tick. With a whopping 125 yards across the nation, it’s no surprise these guys know their way around the metal recycling business. As CEO of SA, George Adams is one of the most known faces in the…
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Ep. 60: Predictions for Recyclers with Jason Schenker
Much has transpired since the last time we sat down with our favorite economist, Jason Schenker. Jason gives us an update on how the world affairs, such as the Russia/Ukraine war and the COVID-19 shut down in China, specifically affect the recycling and metal industries. With price shift and…
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Ep. 59: Small Beginnings, Big Results with Von Fahrenbruch
At ISRI’s 2022 National Convention, John sits down with Von Fahrenbruch, owner of F&F Iron & Metals in Norton, Kansas. Having known each other for over 20 years through trade shows, John admits Von is the prime example of how to treat people and how to operate a facility. With Kansas as a major...
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Ep. 58: Return of the Two Buds
Stan Silva II and his son Stan Silva III (Little Bud) return to the podcast for a second time at the ISRI 2022 National Convention to talk to us about operations at the A&S Metals facility. Although he says it’s not as fun as driving a truck, Little Bud has acquired more presence in the yard and...
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Ep. 57: Generations of Success with the Krentzman Brothers
As their father slowly begins to let his sons take over the company, David and Michael Krentzman say they're more than ready to step up to the plate and follow the six generations of Krentzmans before them. The brothers join the podcast to discuss what it's like operating in rural Pennsylvania…
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Ep. 56: Just Making it Work with the Cohen Brothers
Although growing up in the industry and becoming a multi-generational yard owner is impressive, starting as a first-generation recycling facility deserves a whole new level of appreciation. Brothers John and Nicholas Cohen, owners of NJC Scrap Metal Recycling in Hempstead and Bay Shore, NY, join...
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Ep. 55: JASON Project Winners
To recognize the importance that the next generation has on the state of our environment in the years to come, ISRI partners with Jason Learning and invites K-12 students across the nation to participate in The JASON Project to create a video and poster promoting the recycling industry. This year...
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Ep. 54: No Borders in Recycling with Tom Bird
During a busy Day 3 of the 2022 ISRI National Convention, President of the Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) Tom Bird sits down with John Sacco to share insight on recycling from a global perspective. Tom shares how policymakers in the UK have been working against recyclers much like they...
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Ep. 53 Managing the Chaos with Gary Champlin
The recycling industry fights many battles day-in and day-out, but ISRI Chairman Gary Champlin says that the COVID-19 pandemic was more of a war than a battle for recyclers everywhere. Having been elected at the peak of shutdown and experiencing two years of sole virtual communication, Gary...
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Ep. 52: Back and Better Than Ever with Robin Wiener
Back and better than ever, the 2022 National ISRI Convention is, once again, a face-to-face event in Las Vegas, Nevada! As we all prepare for the biggest show in the recycling industry, ISRI President Robin Wiener discusses the victories ISRI has had over the past two years since the COVID-19...
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Ep. 51: Buckling Down for 2022 with Jason Schenker
With how fast the economy changes, we’ve invited Jason Schenker, one of the most accurate financial forecasters and futurists in the world, back again for his third time on the podcast. Being so close-knit with the recycling industry, Jason gives us the full rundown on the labor market, what’s...
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Ep. 50: Make Some Noise
Looking back at 2021, John Sacco does a solo podcast to address today's most significant issues facing the recycling industry. With the government as our biggest competitor trying to label our commodities as waste and recyclers not making enough noise about it, we've begun to lose our voice. As...
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Ep. 49: Adjust Your Understanding of Sustainability with Cheryl Coleman
The word “sustainability” has been a buzzword in the recycling industry lately. With many different interpretations of what the term means, Cheryl Coleman, ISRI’s Vice President of Sustainability, joins John Sacco on the podcast to clarify some confusion. The two discuss the importance of…
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Ep. 48: The Walk & Talk with David Borsuk - Our Role in the Supply Chain
John Sacco goes for a walk with a good friend and ISRI’s 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award winner David Borsuk. These two discuss topics across the board, including the negative connotation of the word “scrap,” environmental justice, the responsibility this industry has to our communities, and how...
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Ep. 47: The Walk & Talk with Neil Byce - ISRI’s Hidden Victories
As the Co-Chair of ISRI’s Membership Committee and the Chair of the Investment Subcommittee, it’s clear that Neil Byce has a passion for this trade association. John and Neil meet up for a walk-and-talk episode in Washington, DC, to discuss how ISRI has supported their companies to grow into…
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Ep. 46: The Walk & Talk with Andrew Lincoln - ISRI’s Environmental Justice Initiative
John is boots-on-the-ground in Washington, DC for ISRI’s Summer Board and Committee Meetings! John meets up with Andrew Lincoln, Vice President of Lincoln Recycling and member of ISRI’s Executive Committee, for a walk-and-talk episode. They discuss how ISRI is proactive in growing this industry…
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Ep. 45: Honoring the Sacrifice - Portrait of a Warrior Gallery
As we commemorate Memorial Day, we acknowledge the brutal reality that each American service member faces. Jason Geis, Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Portrait of a Warrior Gallery - Kern County and a veteran himself, gives John Sacco a heart-wrenching and surreal tour of the gallery to...
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Ep. 44: The Recycling Solution with Balcones Resources
Experts in recovering resources through recycling since 1994, Balcones Resources leads the charge for a cleaner recycling stream in Austin, Dallas, and Little Rock, Texas. CEO Kerry Getter and Vice President of Strategy, Richie Getter, discuss the multitude of changes needed to create a greener...
About this show
Pile of Scrap’s real and raw discussions give unmatched insight into the 5th most dangerous industry in the country. Travel across the nation with John Sacco, Sierra International Machinery President, as he reveals the truth behind recycling and waste facilities in America. The environmental and economic impacts of this $500 billion-dollar industry go unnoticed by most, but the work the men and women in this industry do is vital to the save the world and our natural resources.
Hosted by
Sierra International Machinery
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