CONEXPO – CON/AGG Podcast: Construction Business Insights For Contractors

Discover how construction business owner Taylor White navigates the unique mental health challenges of the industry. From financial stress to the loneliness of leadership, he shares personal strategies for resilience and maintaining well-being in a blue-collar world.Business ownership in construction means constant challenges, with many owners working through extreme stress. The "tough it out" culture often makes it impossible for owners to discuss their struggles which can lead to isolation and severe mental health risks. Understanding and implementing personal strategies for mental well-being is vital for sustainable success and preventing burnout.Learn how to address the unspoken burdens of leadership as Taylor reveals his private battles with mental health.🚨 The Unspoken Isolation of Command [4:38]:"Driving home the other night, I just wanted to talk to somebody. I don’t want that person to be my wife…She has been dealing with three kids all day. The last thing I am going to do is come home and be like, ‘Let me talk to you about the stresses of budgeting and how it feels lonely.’ I can’t talk to anybody about this."🌟 Redefining Success Beyond the Balance Sheet [11:36:]"If the business is not doing well, my whole self-worth goes down because it is like, ‘Well, I am not doing good in business, so I am obviously not good enough to do what I am doing.’"Watch as Taylor reveals how giving back to the community can combat generational pressure and build personal value beyond financial metrics.🛠️ The Simple Blueprint for Daily Resilience [28:57]:"’Yeah, I am eating steak and avocado and eggs tonight.’ And I am like- that is my meal, but then you feel like a rockstar in the morning. You feel so good, you get a good eight hours, you go to bed at a good time. You feel really good."This completely changes how we think about managing daily stress and anxiety.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Mental Health Pressures in Construction04:38 - Leadership, Loneliness and Pressure11:28 - Self-Worth and Generational Pressure17:16 - Personal Resilience: Exercise and Support19:30 - Digital Detox and Phone Boundaries23:57 - The Power of Family Partnership27:48 - Foundations: Sleep, Food, Movement30:10 - Calls to ActionMay is Mental Health Month! Learn how CONEXPO-CON/AGG is Taking Mental Health To The Next Level: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/mental-healthThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: CONEXPOconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up#MensMentalHealth #ConstructionLeadership #EntrepreneurialWellness

What is the future of construction technology? Veteran excavation business owner Ryan Goodfellow of Rock Structures joins the show to discuss the real trends separating hype from high-ROI investments. He offers a detailed analysis of new machinery from brands like Hyundai, John Deere, and Hitachi, explaining how integrated systems are becoming the new standard.Many contractors left the show wondering which technologies will actually make a difference on the job site. Ryan explains why features like integrated payload scales, 2D/3D systems, and advanced operator cabs are no longer luxuries but necessities for efficiency and profitability. He provides a clear perspective on how to grow a construction business by focusing on becoming better, not just bigger, a strategy that has kept his team loyal and his clients happy for years.KEY EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS🚨 SHIFTING BRAND HIERARCHY [07:53]:Think you know the best brands in construction? Think again."I was absolutely blown away, Taylor, by how far they've come... These new machines, I was blown away. I get in those cabs now and I'm like, “Probably one of the nicest cabs in the industry!”"Ryan reveals the surprising advancements from brands like Hyundai, showing how they've closed the technology and comfort gap with industry leaders. A must-watch for anyone considering new equipment.💡 THE "BETTER, NOT BIGGER" STRATEGY [19:34]:Feeling the pressure to constantly expand your business?"I'm not looking to become bigger, I'm looking to become better. And that's what I told him. Like I want to perfect what we do."Ryan breaks down his philosophy for sustainable growth, focusing on perfecting systems and strengthening his team instead of chasing more crews and equipment.🤝 THE LOYALTY FORMULA [32:16]:Struggling to build a loyal and motivated crew?"My guys know that I won't ask them to do anything that I wouldn't do myself. I think that carries a lot of weight with guys nowadays."This simple leadership principle is the foundation of a strong company culture. Learn how to build trust and respect that keeps your best people on the job.CHAPTERS:00:00 CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Takeaways From the Show Floor03:00 How Global Equipment Brands Are Changing the Market07:06 New Excavator Technology12:08 How Payload Systems Increase Jobsite Profitability16:10 The Rise of On-Site Crushing & Material Recycling18:34 Growing an Excavation Company Without Getting Bigger24:13 Why Relationships Drive Construction Business Success30:02 Why Leaders Should Show Up on Jobsites More Often34:44 The Mindset That Builds Long-Term Success in ConstructionThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: CONEXPOconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up🔗 CONNECT WITH RYAN GOODFELLOW:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-goodfellow-6a3734353/Rock Structures: https://www.rockstructures.com/#CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 #HeavyEquipment #BusinessGrowth

What really happens behind the scenes at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, the world's largest construction trade show? Taylor provides a complete recap of his experience of the show in Las Vegas covering essential planning tips, the biggest industry trends like AI, and the personal moments that defined the show. As a third-generation construction business owner and podcast host, Taylor offers a unique view of the event.Many people attend CONEXPO-CON/AGG for the massive machines and new technology and the large scale can be overwhelming and feel impersonal. Taylor reveals a different side of the event, describing it as a "family reunion" where personal connections are the main event. A surprising interaction with listeners provided him with a new sense of purpose, showing the powerful community within the industry.🎯 KEY EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:✨ THE UNCONVENTIONAL PLAYGROUND [03:37]:"Las Vegas is so hyped up…and it's that way for a reason. Because there's so much going on. You can do anything that you imagine or think of."CONEXPO-CON/AGG is more than just a trade show; it's an experience amplified by its location. Taylor explains how the unique Las Vegas environment offers opportunities for adventure and connection that go far beyond the convention floor.⚠️ THE NETWORKING PARADOX [15:16]:"I never get to link up with everybody that I say I'm gonna do it, you know, because it's like you have so many prerequisites."The pressure to do everything at the show is a common pitfall. Taylor addresses the reality of an overpacked schedule and the fear of missing out, which can prevent you from having the most meaningful interactions.⚡ THE INVISIBLE MASTERPIECE [22:46]:"When I'm walking around there, and a lot of people might not even think about this process, it's like the amount of time it has to take to just the fencing, the barriers, the washrooms, the badge pickup sites... Incredible."Most attendees see the booths, but few see the massive logistical operation behind them. Taylor offers a new appreciation for the event by highlighting the immense, year-long effort required to build the temporary city that is CONEXPO-CON/AGG.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Welcome to the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Recap01:45 - Pre-Show Strategy & The Vegas Arrival06:45 - Taylor’s Awkward Encounter with David Blaine12:47 - Highlights from the Show Floor15:36 - Top Industry Trends: AI, Tech & Workforce19:56 - The Real Value of CONEXPO-CON/AGG: Community23:50 - Taylor’s Biggest Takeaway27:30 - Final Thoughts & What's NextThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: CONEXPOconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up#conexpo-con/agg #lasvegas #tradeshow

Mike Simon - better known as Dirt Perfect - is back on the podcast today! Since his first appearance, Mike has grown his YouTube channel to over 500,000 subscribers, all while running his excavating business. In this live recording from the CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Community Zone, Mike sits down with Taylor to talk about what's changed, what hasn't, and why his "hobby" now earns more than his business.From the emotional reason he started filming to the practical realities of balancing brand deals with job site work, Mike delivers a first class lesson in authenticity. He and Taylor dive into why the trades are still undervalued, how social media is a powerful free advertising tool, and why knowing your "why" matters more than chasing views.🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS:💰 YOUTUBE PAYS MORE THAN THE BUSINESS (AND THAT'S OKAY) [4:38]:"The crazy part is the social media world makes more money than the excavating business. So how do you balance that out, right?"Mike gets honest about the financial reality of his channel and explains why he intentionally keeps it a hobby to avoid burnout and maintain authenticity.👷‍♂️ THE TRADES VS. COLLEGE REALITY CHECK [13:06]:"One of the kids I graduated with is now the assistant principal at the high school... the reality of it is my salary is six times what his is."Mike makes a powerful argument for trade careers, explaining why schools are finally waking up to their value.🚀 YOU CAN'T PREDICT A HIT, SO JUST PRESS 'PUBLISH' [31:34]:"I bet you out of half of my videos that have really taken off, I probably considered not posting because I didn't think they were that great of videos. And the videos you think that are absolutely awesome and you can't wait for everybody to see just lay there flat."Mike reveals that the audience decides what's compelling, not the creator. Instead of trying to engineer a perfect viral hit, focus on consistently documenting your journey, because you never know which project will be the one to connect with millions.CHAPTERS:0:00 - From Excavator to YouTube Star1:59 - The "Why" Behind the Camera: A Father's Legacy4:18 - When the Hobby Pays More Than the Business6:20 - The Secret to Half a Million Followers7:39 - How Excavator Soccer Led to His First Brand Deal12:00 - Why the Trades Are a Smarter Career Than You Think17:19 - Advice for Starting Out in Business & on Social Media20:22 - The Dirt Perfect Origin Story (and Spelling Mistake)24:16 - Behind the Scenes: Content Strategy and Scheduling32:27 - The $10,000 Video vs. The $1,000 Video: How YouTube Pays34:43 - The First Big Paycheck & What's NextThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: CONEXPOconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up🔗 CONNECT WITH DIRT PERFECT:Website: https://www.dirtperfect1.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DirtPerfect#DirtPerfect #ConstructionLife #SkilledTrades

How does the youngest asphalt company owner in Wisconsin, and the only woman of color in that role, build a thriving business? Ebony Jennings shares her journey of honoring her family's legacy while forging her own path in a male-dominated field. She offers a direct look at the challenges and advantages of her unique position.Ebony explains why certain industry programs, designed to help, can sometimes feel like a double-edged sword, and gives practical advice on how women can build the confidence needed to lead and earn respect. Her story provides a clear blueprint for attracting the next generation to the trades and succeeding against the odds.🎯Key Episode Takeaways⚠️ THE FORGOTTEN SOLUTION [09:28]:"I believe that if we put trades back into high schools like we did, or even as low as middle schools... We don't live in a world where they push trades a lot. You more so will see the four year colleges are being pushed. That doesn't work for everyone."This addresses the root cause of the skilled labor shortage and offers a clear, systemic solution to building a stronger talent pipeline for the future.✨ THE SISTERHOOD STRATEGY [19:10]:"That is where your village is going to come from. That is where your sisterhood comes in at. And you need that because you may not be as vocal as me or someone, another woman you know in your industry."Discover how building a strong network of women provides the support and motivation to find your voice, gain confidence, and claim your space.⚡ THE LISTENING ADVANTAGE [32:53]:"Come and listen to the women's perspectives... especially us women in this industry, it's majority men. So we're always listening to you. So come and just listen in with us as well."This is a direct call to action for male leaders to gain a competitive edge by understanding the experiences and ideas of women in their companies.Chapters00:00 - Why CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Is a Must Attend for Construction Pros00:54 - Breaking Barriers as a Woman of Color in Asphalt04:18 - The Real Impact of Minority Business Certifications09:19 - Fix the Skilled Labor Shortage by Rebuilding Trade Education12:00 - Use Social Media to Attract the Next Generation to Construction14:22 - What to Expect from the EmpowerHER Workshop16:22 - How Women Can Build Confidence in a Male Dominated Industry19:00 - Why Construction Sisterhood and Mentorship Matter26:58 - How to Prepare Your Team and Brand for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: CONEXPOconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up🔗 CONNECT WITH EBONY JENNINGS:Ebony Jennings: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebony-jennings-b11042142/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenningsasphalt/?hl=enInterested in hearing more from Ebony? Add the EmpowerHER Workshop to your CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 registration today! Limited spots available for this two-day event taking place Friday, March 6 – Saturday, March 7.#WomenInConstruction #ConstructionLife #SkilledTradeshttps://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast-20

Construction business owners face a massive recruitment hurdle. Society has spent years telling kids that university degrees were the only path to success - a message that has created a culture where manual labor is seen as a ‘last resort’. Emmy award-winner, creator and host of Dirty Jobs, and America’s leading advocate for the skilled trades, Mike Rowe, joins the show to explain why this labor gap is a threat to national security.Mike demonstrates why the construction industry must change how it markets itself to the next generation. Polished corporate videos often fail as young recruits can sense when they are being sold a lie. Contractors should focus on telling the authentic stories of their most successful employees in an effort that will help people see the wealth and pride available in a trade career.🎯KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:⚠️ THE RETIREMENT GAP CRISIS [09:57]:"For every five tradespeople who retire this year, two will replace them. Five out, two in. Now, it has been that way for over a decade. And you don't have to be a math major to look at that and go, ‘All right, that ratio is not sustainable.’"Watch Mike share the dangerous math that puts national security at risk.✨ THE SITE COMPLIANCE TRAP [29:19]:"Safety is not first. If safety were first, there would be no one on the job site. We would all be home bubble-wrapped in our altered-states tubes."Learn how extreme rules lead to complacency and why common sense must return to the site.🧠 THE PRIDE OF UNSEEN WORK [49:14]:"No one sees his handiwork. He is 10 feet underground hammering out rotten bricks and putting in new ones to keep the entire sewer system viable so the streets don't collapse and run with crap. It’s a really important job and nobody has any idea that he is doing it."Discover the deep pride found in the vital work that remains hidden from public view.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Mike Rowe and CONEXPO-CON/AGG 202602:50 - Why CONEXPO-CON/AGG Showcases the Heart of Construction05:59 - Technology Scale and Why CONEXPO-CON/AGG Is Unlike Any Other Expo08:00 - The Skilled Trades Recruiting Crisis and Authentic Storytelling15:41 - Do Younger Workers Want to Work?19:31 - Scholarships Workforce Gaps and the Trades Talent Pipeline25:22 - Rethinking Training Safety and Competency in Construction35:55 - Why Apprenticeships and Early Exposure Beat Classroom Hours44:47 - Pride in Craftsmanship and the Art Behind the Trades48:31 - The Invisible Work That Holds Infrastructure TogetherThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: conexpoconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up🔗 CONNECT WITH MIKE ROWE:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeroweworks/• Website: https://mikerowe.com/• Foundation: https://www.mikeroweworks.org/#SkilledTrades #LaborShortage #CONEXPO-CON/AGG2026https://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast-20

Raised on Blacktop’s Matt Stanley returns to explain how a family paving business actually runs. Most people think a large fleet means the owner is comfortable, but the truth is that the work feels fragile when you are in the trenches every day, and you have to ‘keep the main thing the main thing’ to stay profitable. Matt reveals how to grow a public brand without losing touch with the job site.Explaining that you need to master the balance between field leadership and scaling systems, Matt reveals how to earn respect on the job while stepping back to let the company grow. He also talks about the mental toll of content creation and why he dropped his brand manager. Get ready for a very real conversation about the hard truth behind the highlight reels.🎯KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:📈 THE EXPANSION COST [05:50]:“For a paving company, the end-all be-all is like paving highways and airports… and the deeper we get into these city contracts and state work… you kind of see like, ‘Oh, this is why my dad kind of shied away from this stuff’…the paperwork…the restrictions and everything.”Every contractor wants to move into the biggest projects. But those contracts come with heavy restrictions and night work. Matt discusses how to pick a path that protects your family life.🧠 THE HANDS-OFF METHOD [13:24]:"I see employees doing things sometimes where it's like, I would have done that differently. And now I'm like, ‘Don't say anything. Just let them do it.’ It's not like it's not coming out right. It’s still good. But you can't micromanage.”You cannot scale a company if you control every move. You must trust your operators to solve problems their own way. This shift is the only way to build a company that survives without you.🛡️ THE REPUTATION TRAP [23:03]:"When we work outside of our regular radius, it's like, you know, you’ve got a target on your back going out.”The public eye adds a heavy layer of stress to every project. People are often just waiting for a mistake. Watch this part to learn how to manage the pressure when the world is watching your work.00:00 - CONEXPO 2026 and PODCAST2001:21 - The Fragility of Growth03:38 - Scaling a Family Paving Business05:31 - Finding the Right Company Size08:17 - Hiring vs Retaining Crews09:24 - Leading From the Jobsite12:48 - Letting Go of Micromanagement14:33 - Respect vs Likeability17:53 - Creating Raised on Blacktop21:14 - Managing Public Pressure30:06 - Ops Before Social Media35:06 - Redefining Success and BurnoutHear more from Matt Stanley at the Building a Construction Brand Online: Tips from Top Content Creators education session at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026🔗 CONNECT WITH MATT:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-stanley-738295183/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raisedonblacktop/Website: https://raisedonblacktop.com/#Paving #ConstructionLife #RaisedOnBlacktophttps://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast-20

Most construction business owners believe that doing quality work is the only marketing they need. The industry is shifting rapidly, and competitors now use digital tools to capture attention and market share before you even get a chance to bid. Marvin Joles explains why staying invisible is a risk you cannot afford to take in 2025.You might worry that posting videos looks unprofessional or feels awkward to your peers. Silence and invisibility are far more dangerous to your long-term survival than a few early videos that lack polish. Marvin shares how he overcame the fear of judgment to build a brand that dominates his local market and secures his company's future.Learn how visibility protects your business when Marvin reveals the harsh reality for contractors who refuse to adapt.🔓 FEAR HACK [06:14]:"My mentor told me, 'Keep them up there so you can see how far you've come.'"See why your "cringy" early content is actually a valuable roadmap for your growth rather than a mistake to hide.🤝 NETWORKING TRUTH [18:35]:"We talk about work, the equipment and whatnot, maybe 20% of the time. But 80% of the time, we're talking about family."Discover the real ROI of attending industry events like CONEXPO-CON/AGG and why relationships matter more than the equipment you buy.⚔️ COMPETITIVE THREAT [29:54]:"If you do not do this, a guy like me is going to come and pass you by."Marvin explains why ignoring social media is no longer an option for generational businesses and how young talent can revitalize your marketing.CHAPTERS:00:00 – CONEXPO 2026 Kickoff and Discount Code: PODCAST20 01:12 – Marvin’s Path From Asphalt Contractor to Media Voice03:51 – How Social Content Built a Thriving Asphalt Community04:05 – Creating Transparent, Trust-Building Contractor Content07:36 – Embracing Cringe and Evolving as a Creator10:38 – How In the Mix Strengthened His Brand and Business14:26 – Tech, AI, and Automation Transforming Asphalt Workflows17:28 – The Rise of Creator Culture in the Trades18:07 – Why Networking at CONEXPO Outweighs Everything Else21:39 – What First-Time CONEXPO Attendees Don’t Realize24:59 – Using AI to Plan the Perfect CONEXPO Experience29:26 – The One Thing Asphalt Contractors Must Stop Doing33:08 – Marvin’s Final Advice on Connection, Mentorship, and GrowthThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: conexpoconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up🔗 CONNECT WITH MARVIN JOLES:• Website and Social Media: https://marvinjoles.com/• Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/in-the-mix-with-marvin-joles/id1822864102#InTheMix #SocialMediaMarketing #CONEXPO2026https://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast-20

Scaling a family business usually requires preserving tradition and maintaining the status quo. But in a high-stakes, low-trust economy, clinging to the old ways of handshake deals and unchecked hours can destroy a company rather than save it. Taylor White sits down with his father, David, to reveal the hard truths about modernizing a legacy construction firm into an eight-figure powerhouse.The conversation gets raw as they revisit the friction of transitioning from a local operation to a modern enterprise. David explains why the era of doing business on a handshake is dead and shares the brutal reality of why he let Taylor reach a breaking point before stepping in to help.🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:📜 TRUST EVOLUTION [09:57]:"I never had a signed contract up to like eight years ago... Your word was your word. Then it got to the point it was like, okay, your handshake is your... that's what seals the deal. But today, yeah, it's definitely different."See why David finally agreed to rigid documentation to protect the company in a changing market.🔥 NECESSARY FRICTION [25:01]:"It's part of you being pushed to the limit that you step up, and it's like, ‘Okay, well, then show me what you can do”… If it was easy, that push wouldn't have happened."David reveals why he allowed Taylor to struggle to the point of quitting, viewing it as an essential test of leadership rather than a failure of support.🛑 THE FAMILY HIRING MANDATE [35:03]:"Don't bring them into the business and think from day one they're going to be working for me... They’ve got to go work somewhere else first. By that time they'll know what it's like on the other side."Watch as David breaks down the non-negotiable requirement for any family member joining the business.CHAPTERS:00:00 – CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 and Discount Code: PODCAST30 01:27 – Aggressive Leadership vs. Fear of Failure03:51 – Generational Mindsets on Failure, Ego, and Risk04:43 – Staying Profitable in a Recession Through Branding06:03 – The One Lesson David Would Tell His Younger Self07:02 – How Marketing Evolved From Yellow Pages to Social Media08:54 – Why Documentation Protects Contractors Today10:29 – Work Ethic Shifts: Old-School Grit vs. Modern Balance15:50 – Scaling the Business Through Structure and Systems17:54 – Navigating Conflict and Partnership in a Family Business20:53 – The Hardest Moment Working Together and What It Taught Them25:27 – How Family Values Shape Culture and Employee Support27:30 – Blurred Lines Between Work and Family in a Family Business30:34 – Defining Legacy in a Third-Generation Company34:57 – Advice for Anyone Bringing Family Into Their BusinessThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: conexpoconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-upNEW at CONEXPO-CON/AGG! Hands-on maintenance training with industry-leading manufacturers, for those that want to: ✅ Reduce Downtime ✅Increase Equipment Reliability ✅Maximize ROI ✅Improve Efficiency Learn more & register here, space is LIMITED! https://bit.ly/4ovT50q🔗 CONNECT WITH DAVID WHITE:Website: https://kwconstruction.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-white-1a49a119/#ConstructionBusiness #FamilyBusiness #SuccessionPlanning https://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast-30

Are you playing it safe in your business? Taylor challenges the conventional wisdom of saying "no" to opportunities that seem too big or too risky, revealing the game-winning mindset that separates stagnant businesses from those experiencing explosive growth.Many entrepreneurs believe caution is key, carefully avoiding projects that stretch their capabilities. But what if that hesitation is the very thing keeping you from your next breakthrough? Taylor breaks down a real-life case study where he took on a commercial job his team was completely unprepared for. The lessons learned from that single decision to say "yes" transformed his company's trajectory and can reshape your approach to risk and opportunity. Don't miss the powerful insights on how to push your team, build unwavering client trust, and master the art of being a leader who drives action.KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:⛔ THE COMFORT ZONE TRAP [01:40]:"I had a friend… he's like, ‘I wouldn't go. I don't need to go. I don't see the value in going.’"This common mindset of seeing opportunity as an obligation is a trap. Learn why turning down new experiences and connections out of comfort is the biggest risk you can take for your career growth.🔑 THE DELEGATION DILEMMA [13:32]:"Most importantly, I need to understand how the business makes money before I can delegate and hand it off."This is the critical mistake entrepreneurs make when trying to scale. Before you hand off the reins, discover the one thing you must master to avoid losing control and profitability, a lesson Taylor learned the hard way.⚡ THE RESPONSE HACK [15:50]:"You know how many times answering an email late at night actually sped up a process?"Struggling with project delays caused by slow responses? Taylor shares a counter-intuitive communication hack that gets you to the top of the inbox and accelerates your project timeline by working outside of normal hours.CHAPTERS:00:00 - CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: Discount Code & Details01:15 - The Success Mindset02:28 - Case Study: The "Too Big" Commercial Job05:06 - The Power of 'Yes'07:52 - Dealing with ‘Slowness’10:01 - Pushing Your Team13:19 - Learning Important Business Lessons15:30 - Finding People Who Drive Growth16:33 - Client Trust: The Key to Construction Management19:38 - The Utility Expo20:17 - CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Hype: Let's Connect in VegasThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: conexpoconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up#BusinessMindset #Construction #Entrepreneurship #Leadershiphttps://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast-30

Is the construction boom over? As the market tightens, new competitors are driving down prices, and cash flow is becoming a daily battle. For many owners, the strategies that created massive growth are now creating massive risk. But what if you could pivot your approach to not only protect your profits but also strengthen your company for the long term?In this episode, Australian construction leader Jimmy Starbuck joins Taylor to pull back the curtain on the harsh realities of today's market. They reveal the critical mindset shifts and strategic pivots you must make in cash flow, team management, and personal leadership to navigate this downturn. This isn't just theory; it's a playbook forged from decades of experience scaling a company from one machine to an industry giant.🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:💸 THE HIDDEN CASH FLOW KILLER [23:20]:"Why do some people not send their invoices? I had a...truck driver working for me for a month, he didn't invoice me once. We're calling him saying 'please invoice'...it's bad for us, too."This is a critical lesson in cash flow liability. Letting invoicing slide doesn't just delay your pay; it creates a massive, unexpected financial hit that can cripple your business when it finally lands.🧠 THE CONTRARIAN FINANCING STRATEGY [29:20]:"I've gone over the years to the banks when I've been flying high and said, 'Listen, I need money.' And they're like, 'What do you need money for? You got plenty of money.' I'm like, 'Well, when I need it, you're not going to give it to me. So what can you give me now that I don't need?'"This changes everything about how you should approach financing. Secure your lines of credit and capital when your business is strong, not when you're desperate. The bank wants to lend to winners.🚀 THE 80% RULE FOR SCALING [46:44]:"If I hire somebody and they can do my job 80% as good as I think that I can do it, I'm winning."This is the single biggest mindset shift for an owner stuck in the operator trap. Letting go of perfection allows you to scale, focus on high-level strategy, and ultimately grow the business beyond what you could ever do alone.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction and CONEXPO-CON/AGG 202602:07 - Schedule Workouts Like Meetings to Stay Consistent05:04 - Turn Slowdowns Into Brand Building (Podcasting & LinkedIn)10:41 - Rates, Policy & Housing Headwinds Impacting Demand13:14 - Structure Teams Beyond Friends-and-Family With Clear Roles18:56 - Build Scalable Systems for Growth and Downturns21:48 - Cash Is King: Invoice Fast, Follow Up Faster26:31 - Finance Smart: Match Debt, Depreciation & Revenue (Keep a Credit Cushion)33:17 - Win on Authentic Personal Brand vs. Flashy Edits38:55 - Navigating Content Fatigue and Standing Out Online46:14 - Leadership, Delegation & Building Scalable Culture55:04 - CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026🔗 CONNECT WITH JIMMY STARBUCK:Website: https://starbuckgroup.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starbuckexcavation/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-starbuck-13336546/Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/https://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast-30 CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: conexpoconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up#StarbuckGroup #Scaling #CONEXPO-CON/AGG2026

Frustrated with the relentless demands of the construction industry eating into your family time? As a dad and business owner in the trades, Taylor today pulls back the curtain on the tough realities and incredible rewards of balancing a thriving career with intentional fatherhood.Many parents in demanding industries face the challenge of unpredictable schedules and the heavy mental load of entrepreneurship, often feeling torn between career success and being a present parent. This episode reveals how rethinking your approach to work and family, viewing your children as reflections of your own drive, and prioritizing self-care can transform this struggle into a powerful synergy. Discover how to excel as both a business owner and a devoted father, building a legacy that truly matters.🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS: 🧠 THE "MIRROR EFFECT" OF PARENTING [2:31]:Concerned about the example you're setting for your kids? “Your kids are essentially a mirror. You know, everything's like a mirror."Taylor reveals how children reflect the values and attitudes they observe, offering a powerful perspective on mindful parenting. Must-watch segment 👀✨ THE PURPOSE-DRIVEN PROVIDER [14:54]:Seeking powerful motivation for business and life? “That would be my biggest motivator, being able to provide wealth for my family, number one overall.”Discover how tapping into your desire to provide for your loved ones can become the ultimate driving force for your success and well-being. This changes everything about how you view your ambition.⚡ RESILIENCE MEETS PERSPECTIVE [23:33]:Looking for the ultimate mindset to conquer life's toughest challenges? “Construction teaches resilience, but fatherhood gives you perspective."Taylor shares the profound lesson that resilience from work combined with the perspective gained from fatherhood creates an unstoppable force for life and business. Game-changing insight 🎯CHAPTERS:00:00 - Welcome & Episode Focus: Parenting in Construction00:44 - CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Registration (Save 30% with PODCAST30)01:28 - Why This Topic Now: Parenting Chaos & Pool Story03:04 - Bring Your Kid to Work & Pass Down the Trade04:07 - Long Hours & Mental Load in Construction06:46 - Kids Are a Mirror: Model a Positive Work Mindset09:31 - Be Present at Home: Set Phone Boundaries11:03 - Big 4 Challenges: Time, Energy, Presence, Sacrifices13:22 - Wins & Values: Pride in Providing + Blue-Collar Respect18:28 - Schedule Non-Negotiable Family Time & Health Habits23:31 - Resilience vs. Perspective: Construction & Fatherhood25:08 - CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Reminder + Sponsor ShoutoutThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/https://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast-30 CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: conexpoconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up#ParentInConstruction #WorkLifeBalance #EntrepreneurDad

Preparing for a massive trade show like  CONEXPO-CON/AGG can feel like a monumental task. With millions of square feet and thousands of exhibitors, it's easy to get lost in the noise, but simply showing up without a plan is a surefire way to miss the game-changing connections and technologies that could redefine your business.Today’s episode features a recent Customer Panel recorded at the CONEXPO-CON/AGG Exhibitor Meeting in August, where a group of accomplished construction leaders - from seasoned veterans to first-time attendees - break down the exact strategies they use to turn their visit into a high-ROI investment. They also reveal how they plan their days, what tech they're looking for, and how they solve their biggest business challenges right at the show.🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:🚀 PRO SHOW BLUEPRINT [04:54]:"The  CONEXPO app, I've used that more and more as the show has grown to try to like map out my route... map out my day."John McDonald shares the exact process for leveraging the show's app to filter exhibitors, plan your route, and maximize your time on the floor, ensuring you never miss a critical connection.🧠 THE BUYER'S SECRET [12:22]:"I'm not buying anything there. It's more education, research, kind of learning about the different products... What's the right fit for us?"Amanda Kurt’s crucial insight for exhibitors: many attendees aren't there to make an instant purchase. Learn why focusing on education and helping buyers find the "right fit" for their specific scale is the key to long-term sales.💡 EXHIBITOR GOLD [22:53]:"I think for exhibitors it would benefit them... to obtain like influencers, someone that's going to kind of bring the idea that you have to life... we're in the age of social media, right?" - Discover Ebony Jennings’ powerful strategy for creating buzz and driving traffic to your booth. ⚠️ FUTURE SHOCK [48:52]:"The autonomous equipment that we are developing... are where we put entry-level operators. We are now displacing not the bottom rung on the ladder, but a gap in the middle." Nic Parish offers a glimpse into the future of the construction workforce, highlighting the unintended consequences of automation.CHAPTERS:00:00 -  CONEXPO 2026 Launch & PODCAST40 Discount00:31 - Panel Introduction & Industry Backgrounds04:16 - How to Plan the Show With the App & Pre-Booking06:18 - Education-First Strategy & Networking Insights08:27 - Industry Challenges09:45 - Sustainability & Equipment Life-Cycle Tradeoffs11:24 - Reviews, Serviceability & Right-Fit Tech13:16 - Practical Sustainability18:23 - Brand Engagement27:57 - Technology Trends31:56 - Booth Engagement & Follow-Up That Actually Works40:00 - Barter, Hashtags & Storytelling42:04 - Show Planning Balance46:45 - Future Outlook🔗 CONNECT WITH OUR PANEL:Ebony Jennings - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebony-jennings-b11042142/Amanda Kurt - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-kurt/John McDonald II: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-mcdonald-ii-003624102/Nic Parish - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicparish/Eric Sauvage - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-sauvage-1302521aThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: conexpoconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up#CONEXPO #Construction #HeavyEquipmentRegistration for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is now open! Join us while we take over Las Vegas March 3-7, 2026 for five days of heavy equipment, groundbreaking tech, and the BEST in the industry. Use code PODCAST40 at checkout to save 40% on show admission through September 12, 2025.

Ever wonder what it really takes to build a multi-seven-figure construction company from the ground up? Many who dream of launching their own business encounter a landscape filled with immense risk, financial pressure, and operational chaos. The path from skilled operator to successful owner is rarely a straight line.But what if you could learn the unfiltered truth from someone who navigated that exact journey in just three years? In this episode, Dylan Mercier of D2 Contracting returns to pull back the curtain on his rapid rise, revealing the critical mindset shifts and strategic decisions that fueled his growth. He shares the hard-won lessons on managing high-risk projects, the art of saying "no" to the wrong jobs, and the humble realization that sustainable success is about more than just aggressive expansion. This is a masterclass in grit and strategy, packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to not just survive, but thrive in the competitive construction world.🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:⚠️ THE GROWTH TRAP AVOIDED [06:25]:"I'm glad I didn't get some of those bigger jobs because I would have screwed up royally."The biggest fear for any new owner is growing too fast and crashing. Hear Dylan explain why turning down seemingly great opportunities was crucial for his long-term survival and how to identify the risks that can sink your business before it's too late.✨ FLEET SCALING UNLOCKED [13:13]:"That's kind of when I make that decision to pull the plug... I call whoever we're getting the piece of equipment from and I'm like, 'Hey, send this out. We're going to have it till November. I want it on an RPO.'"Scaling your fleet without crippling debt is the ultimate desire. Dylan reveals his exact strategy for using Rental Purchase Options (RPOs) and negotiating with dealers to acquire the machinery he needs.⚡ AUTHENTICITY OVER ALGORITHMS [25:08]:"You have to include personality... Something people can actually relate to. That same kind of stuff happens on their job sites, just nobody gets it on video."Tired of your social media posts falling flat? Dylan shares the practical shift from generic drone shots to showcasing authentic company culture and personality - the key to attracting top talent and building a brand that stands out in a crowded market.CHAPTERS:00:00 - CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Registration and Event Preview00:50 - D2 Contracting’s Growth and Lessons from Three Years in Business03:48 - Balancing High-Risk Projects, Pricing Strategy, and Saying ‘No’08:27 - Staying Focused by Blocking Out Industry Noise10:22 - Equipment Strategy: Renting, Buying, and RPO Deals16:49 - Motivation, Leadership, and Defining the Owner’s Role22:16 - Hiring a CFO and Strengthening the Business Structure24:01 - Trends and Opportunities in Construction Social Media27:46 - Social Media’s Impact on Hiring vs. Client Acquisition31:55 - Solidifying Client Relationships and Controlled Growth Plans35:07 - Networking and Community at CONEXPO-CON/AGG🔗 CONNECT WITH DYLAN MERCIER:D2 Contracting: https://digd2.com/Dylan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dylanmercier69Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: conexpoconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up#ConstructionBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth Registration for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is now open! Join us while we take over Las Vegas March 3-7, 2026 for five days of heavy equipment, groundbreaking tech, and the BEST in the industry. Use code PODCAST40 at checkout to save 40% on show admission through September 12, 2025.

What is a lineman's life really like during a storm? While the 7,200 volts are dangerous, the greatest threat is far more surprising. 21-year veteran power line technician Aaron LeBlanc (from the YouTube channel Bobsdecline) pulls back the curtain on this high-stakes trade, revealing why public perception of storm recovery is often wrong.Ever wonder if the most lethal danger isn't the electricity, but something far more common? Aaron shares the chilling truth about the #1 threat linemen face - a hazard that has tragically caused fatalities. This episode is a crucial look into the unseen challenges, intense brotherhood, and life-saving knowledge of one of the world's most demanding professions.🎯 Key Episode Takeaways:STORM CHAOS VS. PUBLIC PERCEPTION [10:26]:"The public sees us roll in... They're like, 'Oh good, the power company's here. We're gonna get our power back soon.' But we could have hundreds of similar calls... We're just there to make sure everybody's safe."Get a rare look into the real priorities during a storm. Aaron explains why crews often secure a hazard and leave, a procedural necessity that the public often mistakes for inefficiency.A LINEMAN'S #1 FEAR [16:03]:"One of the things that scares me the most is actually traffic... There's been some very, very serious incidents. There's been a few losses of life within the last few years related to traffic."This is a must-watch segment. Aaron exposes why the most unpredictable and lethal threat to a lineman isn't a high-voltage line, but distracted or impatient drivers near a worksite.CAREER CROSSROADS: MONEY VS. LIFESTYLE [26:02]:"If you're a guy that wants to start a family or you like consistency... municipality is the way to go... If you're young and you want to work on the road, contracting work, I highly recommend it. You'll learn a lot."Considering a career as a lineman? Aaron breaks down the crucial decision between municipal and contractor work, helping you choose the path that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle.Chapters:00:00 - CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 Details & Discount00:31 - Aaron LeBlanc's Introduction01:31 - Becoming a Power Line Technician04:17 - A Day in the ‘Trouble Truck’09:52 - The Unseen Reality of Storm Work12:36 - Understanding Step Potential15:03 - The Unseen #1 Danger for Linemen18:43 - The Brotherhood of the Lineman Trade22:10 - How to Get into the Lineman Trade25:34 - Municipal vs. Private Sector Lineman Work28:36 - Underrated vs. Overrated: Lineman Edition30:56 - The Utility Expo35:29 - The ‘Bobdecline’ Name Origin Story38:11 - Aaron’s Discount Code for The Utility Expo🔗 Connect with Aaron LeBlanc (Bobsdecline):YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BobsdeclineInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobsdeclineFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bobsdecline/The Utility Expo: https://www.theutilityexpo.com/news/aaron-leblanc-lineman-youtube-star-and-firsttime-aThank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026: conexpoconagg.comCONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-upRegistration for CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is now open! Join us while we take over Las Vegas March 3-7, 2026 for five days of heavy equipment, groundbreaking tech, and the BEST in the industry. Use code PODCAST40 at checkout to save 40% on show admission through September 12, 2025.https://www.conexpoconagg.com/attend-the-show/registration-and-pricing?utm_source=audio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=podcast-40 #Lineman #Bobsdecline #CONEXPO-CON/AGG2026

Many skilled operators dream of being their own boss, but the reality is a brutal mix of financial pressure, operational chaos, and personal sacrifice. In this episode, Sy Kirby of Sy-Con Excavation shares his unfiltered story of turning a trade into a thriving business.From a name his grandfather wrote on a toy truck to building a company, a popular YouTube channel, and the Blue Collar Business Podcast, Sy reveals the raw truths about making big bets on people, kickstarting a marketing strategy at CONEXPO, and handling the crushing stress of being the CEO.🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:🤝 The Dozer Deal: How a Two-Year Promise Unlocked a New Division [06:45]"'You come to work for me for two years... and I'll go buy you the baddest daggum dozer on the market when it comes time.' Sure enough, two years goes by and we've got a chance of capturing an entire project together."Sy reveals how a long-term vision and a leap of faith in a key employee unlocked a new division for his company.💀 Beyond the Big Iron: The Brutal Reality of Business Ownership [13:07]"I can't tell you how many Thursdays we've sat there and prayed... 'How's tomorrow going to work out?' The gear is super cool to look at... but making sure your guys' payroll is there every Friday..."Learn all about the immense emotional and financial pressure entrepreneurs face beyond the equipment.🚀 The Accidental Viral Video: How 15 Seconds at CONEXPO Ignited His Marketing [21:48]"It was just a simple 15-second short, went completely viral…It definitely helped gain some traction and help the algorithm base who we are."Sy explains how one simple video jumpstarted his marketing effort, proving you don't need a perfect strategy to get results.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Starting Sy-Con and Honoring a Family Legacy02:01 - Building a Business Around Better Work Culture04:32 - From Residential Work to Commercial Contracts05:46 - Expanding Into Dirt Operations and Team Growth08:06 - Hard Lessons from Scaling and Equipment Investments10:13 - Turning Small Jobs into Long-Term Opportunities12:34 - Managing Growth, Stress, and Entrepreneurial Pressure16:23 - Systemizing Operations and Building a Stronger Team19:35 - Launching a Marketing Strategy with CONEXPO and YouTube26:44 - Creating the Blue Collar Business Podcast32:40 - Advocating for Trades Over Traditional College Paths40:00 - Why AI Makes Blue Collar Careers More Valuable Than Ever🔗 CONNECT WITH SY KIRBY:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQQpxlyHHeYPodcast: https://www.bluecollarbusinesspodcast.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sy-kirby-18395b2a6/Website: https://www.syconexc.com/Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/CONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up#Excavation #Entrepreneurship #BlueCollarBusiness

Feeling the squeeze with rising costs and a shrinking labor pool? A lot of construction companies feel trapped, like the only way out is to just grind harder with the same old playbook. But what if the real path to growth isn't about more effort, but a totally new approach to your machines, your tech, and your people? Brian Dietz, Co-Owner of 2024 Equipment World’s Contractor of the Year, Bob Dietz and Sons Inc., runs his business more like a Silicon Valley startup than a traditional construction firm. And guess what? It's attracting a whole new generation of talent, clearly demonstrating that if you keep ignoring these shifts, you're not just risking getting left behind. You’re risking becoming irrelevant, losing bids to leaner competitors, and failing to build a team that actually wants to stick around. This isn't just about shiny new tools. It's about a complete mindset shift. Discover how Brian is rewriting the rules of construction and building an empire. 📈 THE PROFIT ACCELERATOR [4:47]:"We see just cleaning up our profit lines where we don't waste time or materials. So that's a huge thing." Learn how implementing GPS technology immediately kills costly rework, saving you time and fattening your profit margins on every single job. 🚀 THE TALENT MAGNET [9:52]:"When that young guy, he's 19 years old and he's in a second dozer right next to the old guy... he's going to fall in love with that machine. He's going to feel good, he's going to go home happy to his family, and he's going to want to come back tomorrow excited to work." Tired of hearing that young people don't want to work? This is the blueprint for creating a culture that makes them want to build a career with you. It’s that simple. 🚨 THE HARD TRUTH [19:07]:"If you're not embracing it, if you're not grabbing a hold of it, you're going to be, you're going to be left behind." This is a direct shot across the bow for any business owner who's gotten a little too comfortable. See why falling behind on technology isn't just a risk anymore, it's a certainty. 00:00 - Winning Contractor of the Year and Business Branding02:03 Scaling Up With Bigger Projects and Equipment04:07 Leveraging GPS and Topcon Technology for Efficiency07:01 Cutting Downtime and Boosting Site Productivity10:21 Training Teams Faster With Machine Technology13:22 Future of Construction Tech, AI, and Remote Operations19:50 Keeping Growth Fun and Maintaining Clean Fleets22:15 Building a Unique Clean Heavy Equipment Fleet25:20 Managing Machinery Lifecycles and Large Projects28:57 Handling Multi-Year Jobs and Growing In-House Capabilities29:51 Expanding Into Full Site Package Services32:52 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Conexpo Appearance Website: https://www.bobdietzandsonsinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bob_dietz_and_sons_inc/?hl=en Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/ CONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up #ConstructionTechnology #AIinConstruction #JohnDeere 🎯 Key Episode Takeaways:Chapters:🔗 Connect with Brian:

Are you juggling the relentless demands of your business while trying to keep your content fresh and impactful? Taylor goes solo once again today to share his candid experiences, navigating the complexities of delegation and the evolution of his content creation.  What if the very things you're holding onto are stunting your progress? Embracing strategic delegation and adapting your content, especially with pivotal industry events like CONEXPO-CON/AGG on the horizon, can pave the way for significant growth and a more manageable workload. Today’s episode offers invaluable lessons for construction professionals and business owners aiming to scale and capitalize on industry networking and learning opportunities. 🎯 The Delegation Breakthrough [02:45]:“At the end of the day, or on the weekend, or at night, is when I’d be editing most of the time. Now, that time is just not there for me.””Taylor emphasizes that delegation isn't merely about assigning tasks; it's a strategic move to free up your most valuable asset - your time - to concentrate on activities that will truly propel your business. KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS: ⚡ Instant Access Advantage for CONEXPO Savings & Updates [01:06]:"And newsletter subscribers get discounts delivered straight to their inbox. Click the link in the description to sign up today, please."Taylor offers a straightforward, practical tip: subscribing to the CONEXPO-CON/AGG newsletter gives you immediate access to exclusive discounts and crucial event information. ⚠️ Overcoming the Fear of Relinquishing Control [03:21]:"It wasn’t until I was actually fully ready to quit smoking, because I knew I was ready. I could just tell, it just clicked, that I was done smoking. Same goes with this sort of stuff. Honestly, it’s the same mindset."Taylor powerfully illustrates the internal battle many entrepreneurs face when it comes to delegation, comparing it to quitting a habit.⏰ ✨ CONEXPO Power Play [20:19]:"Immerse yourself within the show. Be one with the show... Like, go up to the booths, interact with the simulators, interact with the people that are standing at the booths."Taylor provides actionable advice for getting the most out of major industry events like CONEXPO. It's not just about showing up; it's about active engagement and strategic interaction to build connections and gain knowledge.🎯 CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Learning to Let Go Through Delegation01:14 - Turning 30 While Balancing Business and Family02:02 - Handing Off Social Media to Focus on Growth04:36 - Struggling to Stay Consistent on YouTube05:39 - Creating Content That Reflects Business Reality06:24 - Building a Workflow for Scalable Marketing07:01 - Letting Go of the Things You’re Great At07:44 - Prioritizing Time on Pritech’s Expansion08:50 - Fake It Till You Make It - Without Lying10:12 - Long-Term Success Over One-Time Profit12:50 - When Everything Goes Wrong on Your Birthday15:21 - Why CONEXPO Is a Must-Attend Event18:48 - Building Real Relationships Through Industry Events20:14 - Taylor’s Top Tips for CONEXPO First-Timers24:36 - Bringing the Team Along for the Ride Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/ CONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up #CONEXPO-CON/AGG #DelegationSkills #ContentMarketing

Running a specialized construction business, particularly in sectors like excavation and septic services, is fraught with unique hurdles. Many dedicated owners find themselves struggling to cut through the competitive noise, establish a truly memorable brand, or skillfully navigate the complex interplay of business growth, intense competition, and sound financial strategy. It's easy to feel like just another undifferentiated truck on the road.  But what if there was a way to transform these common industry challenges into distinct, powerful advantages? Today, Taylor is joined by Dervin Witmer, the visionary behind Dig-it Excavating and Pump That Septic. Dervin candidly reveals how a combination of strategic, memorable branding, a savvy and modern approach to digital marketing, and a series of bold, calculated business moves allowed him to significantly stand out from the crowd, command premium pricing, and ultimately build a highly reputable and consistently thriving company. 🎯 KEY EPISODE INSIGHTS: 🚀 ELEVATION STRATEGY [15:40]:"That really sells people on our brand. So, that kind of helps eliminate the bottom-feeder type people... 'Oh, you’re two thousand dollars more than the other guy.' Fine. Hire him. I do not care. I’m not looking to work for you."Dervin explains how investing in brand and transparency allows them to attract quality clients and confidently avoid price wars, a key desire for many business owners looking to build a premium service. 🛠️ FOUNDATIONAL ADVICE [18:35]:"So, I say to the guy getting into it, take everything you can get when you start, but do a very good job. Be consistent. Don’t cut corners... Just make yourself known as the quality guy or the responsive guy, the guy that answers his phone."Dervin offers straightforward, actionable advice for anyone starting or looking to build a reputation in the construction trades. 🚨 REALITY CHECK [32:38]:"Man, if you don’t like high overhead and if you don’t like debt, don’t get into it."Dervin lays bare the financial realities of running a capital-intensive construction business and why a stomach for significant financial commitment is non-negotiable if you want to grow and sustain CHAPTERS: 0:00 - Intro: CONEXPO-CON/AGG & Guest Dervin Witmer 1:39 - Building the "Dig-it" & "Pump That Septic" Brands 2:50 - Dervin's Entrepreneurial Journey to Excavation 5:54 - Integrating Family into the Business 09:52 - Crafting a Professional Image in Septic Services 12:45 - Strategies for Standing Out & Attracting Quality Clients 14:50 - The Viability of Starting a Septic Business 17:26 - Niche Specialization vs. Diversification 20:43 - Future Growth 23:22 - Equipment Insights: Excavators & Technology 24:15 - Navigating Seasonal Work & Competition 28:13 - The Realities of Specialized Operations 32:38 - Financial Realities 36:03 - The Parts vs. Payments Dilemma in Equipment Ownership 37:30 - Looking Ahead to CONEXPO 2026 🔗 CONNECT WITH DERVIN WITMER / DIG-IT EXCAVATING & PUMP THAT SEPTIC: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DigItExcavating Website: Dig-itexcavating.com Facebook: facebook.com/Dig.It.Excavating Website: pumpthatseptic.com Instagram: @digitexcavating Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/ CONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up #Excavation #SepticServices #Branding

Feeling the pressure of wearing all the hats in your growing business? It’s a common battle, but what if the key to unlocking serious growth was learning to let go and trust others? This episode is for you. Learn how Trent Harris, owner of Blue Collar Contractors Oklahoma Earthwork and Demolition, transformed his business by embracing delegation and strategic risk when he reveals his journey from a solo operator to leading a growing team. You'll discover how he navigates the complexities of scaling, managing multiple ventures, and the mindset required to push through challenges. 🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [22:57]:"My biggest fear is to be saying the same stuff today in five years from now…Let's do our research and make the best, most educated decision we can and then dive in. Let's go."This raw honesty about combating stagnation is a powerful reminder for anyone hesitant to make bold moves. OTHER KEY TAKEAWAYS: 💡 FRAMEWORK REVEAL [07:54]:The Delegation Shift during Rain Delays:• Rain forces multiple job scheduling.• This necessitates trusting the team.• Owner focuses on lining up future work, not just current execution."I think God's kind of forcing my hand a little bit and being like, 'Hey, delegate, let them handle it, you know, trust them and do what you're supposed to do.'"Watch this part to see how uncontrollable factors can actually become catalysts for better business practices and increased production through delegation. 🔑 BREAKTHROUGH MOMENT [15:21]:Tired of being the bottleneck in your own company, trying to do everything yourself?"I was king of kicking someone out of a machine nicely, but like, 'Hey man, let me, let me hop in there real quick.' And then it ended up with me paying someone to watch me do all the work for a lot longer than I'm going to say out loud."Trent reveals his painful but necessary transition to true delegation and the freedom it's starting to unlock. 📈 SUCCESS BLUEPRINT [43:37]:From a push mower to a fleet of heavy equipment and multiple business ventures:"I want to do this until one of my guys gets paid by whoever takes this over to throw dirt on top of me when I'm gone. I mean, that's, I want to get it as big as I can, and I, I would love to see it continue after."Trent breaks down his long-term vision and the relentless drive to build a lasting legacy.  CHAPTERS: 00:00 - CONEXPO 2026 Preview 00:50 - Introducing Trent Harris 02:40 - Building a Dirt Business While Balancing Family and Firefighting 04:46 - Growth Through Risk, Learning, and Networking 08:33 - Delegating Work and Trusting the Team 11:47 - Overcoming Micromanagement and Shifting to Leadership 16:02 - Building Systems, Teams, and Communication for Scale 21:15 - Managing Overhead, Profitability, and Equipment Strategy 29:43 - Balancing Commercial vs. Residential Projects for Cash Flow 34:00 - Investing in GPS Technology to Increase Efficiency 43:11 - Long-Term Vision: Passive Income, Legacy, and Work-Life Balance 48:10 - CONEXPO Community, Networking, and Future Panel Ideas 🔗 CONNECT WITH TRENT HARRIS / BLUE COLLAR CONTRACTORS: TikTok: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-harris-542a6b282/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trent-harris-542a6b282/ Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/\ CONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up #BlueCollarContractors #ScalingBusiness #WorkEthic

Many equipment operators dream of starting their own excavation business, but often face big hurdles, like financial risk, the fear of past failures, and the heavy responsibility of safety on every job. Zach Taylor, a union operator who’s also building his own company, Melania Corporation, is tackling these challenges directly, driven by tough lessons from previous ventures and a powerful desire to prevent senseless tragedies in the trenches.  Today, Zach shares the nitty gritty of balancing a union job with his growing side business, the candid reasons behind his push for #TrenchSafetyTuesday, and the mindset it takes to get back up after a setback. He gets into the importance of knowing your worth, the hard calls on what jobs to take, and the crucial need for real talk about the dangers that still exist in our industry, particularly in excavation. Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/recruit 🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [0:29:17]: "You see this guy down there, like, looking up, holding the shovel, smiling. And they said five minutes later he was dead. And it just really pissed me off."Zach's raw emotion here highlights the preventable tragedies that fuel his commitment to trench safety. KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS: ✨ ENTREPRENEURIAL FIRE IGNITED [0:1:25]:"I was at a Trimble Dimensions in the fall and Dane from DC Excavation told me, and not so many colorful words that I should just go do it. So here we are."Sometimes it takes that outside push. Zach talks about that moment of deciding to go for it, moving past the fear and taking control of his future. 🔑 LESSON LEARNED THE HARD WAY [0:13:57]:"I was less calculated and more excited to move up to that next job...than really taking a step back and looking at it as a business owner and saying, ‘This is where we're at and this is the lane that we need to stay in.’"Zach shares how past excitement almost led to overextension, emphasizing the critical need to understand your company's real capacity and value. ⚠️ THE UNVARNISHED TRUTH ON RISK [0:29:35]:"How many times is this going to happen before, like, we do something about it? ...if you stop killing the ones you have, first of all, that's a good place to start, right?"A direct hit on the industry's all too common blind spots with trench safety. Ignoring these dangers isn't just negligent; it's costing lives. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Building a Side Hustle in Excavation 02:16 - From Childhood Obsession to Career 03:35 - Challenges of Urban Excavation 05:02 - Balancing Work, Family, and Growth 07:40 - Overcoming Fear and Taking the Leap 11:50 - Hard Lessons from Early Business Mistakes 14:14 - Smarter Risk Management for Contractors 17:26 - When Business Partnerships Fall Apart 21:39 - Fatherhood and Flexible Scheduling 25:15 - Naming the Company After His Daughter 28:43 - Starting Trench Safety Tuesday 31:30 - Using Social Media to Drive Safety Awareness 36:08 - Innovations in Trench Safety Tech 38:34 - A Vision for National Safety Training 🔗 CONNECT WITH ZACH TAYLOR:• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_taylorthings/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-taylor-55391533/ Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/ #TrenchSafetyTuesday #OperatorLife #SafetyFirst

Running a family construction business presents unique challenges, especially in demanding fields like concrete and excavation where attracting reliable talent is tough. Many companies struggle to blend tradition with the need for new technology and approaches to keep up. But Amanda Kurt, VP and Managing Partner at Kurk Inc., reveals how they've not only survived but thrived, expanding services and crews by tackling these issues head on. Therefore, learning from their experience offers a blueprint for building a resilient, profitable construction business that values both its people and its bottom line. Discover how Amanda navigates the complexities of managing a growing concrete and excavation workforce, integrating technology like GPS and total stations, and maintaining crucial boundaries in a family run operation. She shares the realities of the job, the strategies for finding young talent in a tight labor market, and the mindset needed for sustainable growth in today's construction world. Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/recruit 🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [11:57]: "We don't shy away that it's physical and it's muddy because the worst thing I want is you to, you know, have this rosy picture of it and you show up and then you don't show up the next day." Hear Amanda discuss the crucial importance of transparency when hiring for physically demanding roles. KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS: ⚠️ LABOR REALITY CHECK [05:06]:"I mean, you have to keep feeding those concrete crews with younger people because it's just physically demanding."Face the tough truth: Concrete's physical toll means constantly finding new, younger talent is essential for long-term crewing. Ignoring this leads to burnout and shortages. Must-watch segment 👀 💡 PRECISION TECH PLAYBOOK [17:12]:"In concrete, we don't really use gps. We use a total station... because a lot of the concrete we're doing, we either need to be more accurate than GPS can give us... We use total station for everything on the concrete side and then we use GPS on the excavation side."Learn why choosing the right technology matters. 📈 SCALING FOR BIG WINS [21:11]:"We contracted... an eight building development... and it was just the amount of work. We couldn't do it with two crews. So we kind of remanned."See how securing a massive project forced Kurk Inc. to scale up by adding a new foundation crew, turning a capacity challenge into a major growth catalyst. Game-changing insight 🎯 CHAPTERS:00:00 - Amanda Kurt & Kurk Inc.02:52 - Business Evolution: Adding Excavation04:54 - Concrete Work: Physical Demands & Labor06:30 - Hiring Strategy & Mapping Career Paths08:30 - Tech Adoption: GPS vs. Total Station Use12:57 - Family Business: Working with Dad & Boundaries18:17 - Operations: Equipment Fleet & Crew Structure20:41 - Market Conditions & Scaling Up25:09 - Future Plans: Smart, Profitable Growth28:29 - Legacy, Next Gen & Work-Life Balance 🔗 CONNECT WITH AMANDA KURT & KURK INC.:• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-kurt/• Website: https://kurkwisconsin.com/ Thank you to our good friends over at John Deere Power Systems for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.deere.ca/en/engines-and-drivetrain/ #ConstructionBusiness #FamilyBusiness #ConcreteContractor

Running a construction company might look like pure success, especially with events like CONEXPO approaching. But in this solo episode, Taylor answers your questions and gets real about the hidden, intense pressures involved: managing multiple businesses, constant travel, endless cash flow worries, and balancing family. He describes this demanding tightrope walk, familiar to many entrepreneurs, as being filled with anxiety and burnout risk, impacting both business and personal health.Handling this pressure, building a strong team, and maintaining drive are crucial for survival in the construction world. Taylor shares his unfiltered battles with "copious amounts of stress" and offers practical strategies for attracting young talent and fostering a resilient company culture, emphasizing how grit and knowing your core 'why' are essential anchors.🚨 Heads up! CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is less than a year away (March 3-7)! Mark your calendars. Tickets go on sale in August. Be sure to sign up for the newsletter for updates and discounts: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/subscribe 🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:🛑 Warning Signs [2:19]"I feel like lately, what has been going on is just copious amounts of stress... Alcohol is definitely not something to help with... I find that alcohol just kind of heightens my anxiety and heightens the stress with business."The intense pressure and very real anxiety of entrepreneurship often go unspoken and can take a physical toll; quick fixes or common coping mechanisms might actually make things worse. Taylor candidly discusses his struggles and the pitfalls of ignoring stress.🧭 Your North Star [12:27]"You have to remind yourself of the ‘why’. And that's what ChatGPT was ultimately telling me this morning... 'Remember that you told me this is your why, Taylor. Now, really think about that every morning when you wake up. Like, why am I doing this?'"When faced with the inevitable sacrifices and high stress of building a business, understanding and constantly revisiting your fundamental reason 'why' provides essential resilience and motivation. Taylor reveals how crucial this clarity is.🛠️ Building Your Path [21:04]"To me, hard work out-trumps talent every single day... if you truly want to make more, start doing more."In the construction trades and beyond, demonstrating proactive effort, taking ownership, and consistently putting in the hard work are far more impactful for career growth and earning potential than just having talent or waiting to be told what to do.CHAPTERS: 00:00 - CONEXPO Countdown 01:55 - Listener Questions: Stress, Growth, and Hiring 02:29 - Managing Stress as a Business Owner 04:43 - Reviving a Failing Business While Juggling Two Companies 05:52 - Health, Habits, and Burnout 07:25 - Balancing Family Life and Entrepreneurial Sacrifice 10:53 - Why Your ‘Why’ Matters 13:20 - Hiring Young Talent Through Social Media 16:05 - Career Growth: Promote From Within 20:41 - The Value of Hard Work and Attitude 22:28 - Handling Toxic Employees and Culture Building 25:14 - Final Thoughts on Stress, Sacrifice, Optimism, and CONEXPO🔗 CONNECT WITH TAYLOR WHITE / KEN WHITE CONSTRUCTION: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca Instagram: @kwc2000 CONEXPO-CON/AGG Newsletter: https://www.CONEXPOconagg.com/industry-news#sign-up #ConstructionBusiness #Entrepreneurship #CONEXPO

Feeling burnt out by client emotions in custom home building or struggling to navigate seasonal lulls and unexpected crises? John Seaman of JC Property Professionals joins Taylor to share his incredible journey from funding dirt bike habits with side jobs, through the demanding world of custom home building, to ultimately dominating complex dirt work and site development in North Carolina. Discover how he pivoted his business, built resilience, and learned to thrive by tackling the jobs others couldn't. Learn John's strategies for managing difficult projects on extreme terrain, diversifying revenue streams through strategic real estate development, and maintaining a strong company culture amidst high-stress situations. He offers a raw, firsthand account of leading his team through the chaos and devastation following Hurricane Helene – tackling logistical nightmares, unique billing challenges (insurance vs. private pay vs. FEMA), and the very human side of disaster recovery. Plus, gain crucial insights into the power of building your personal brand alongside your business brand in the trades. 🚨 Heads up! CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 is less than a year away (March 3-7)! Mark your calendars. Tickets go on sale in August. Be sure to sign up for the newsletter for updates and discounts: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/subscribe 🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [1:00:03]: "There is a difference between building a business brand and building a personal brand... no matter what you do and decide to do in business, the personal brand follows you everywhere. You know, I believe that people buy from people, not a business." ⚠️ WAKE-UP CALL [53:58]: Relying on government contracts post-disaster? Think again. "The county is going to tell you you're going to get paid when we get paid... storm happened in September. I know lots and lots and lots of guys who haven't been paid a dollar yet... That's why we weren't interested in using our resources to go and do the stuff that FEMA would have essentially be paying for and not know if or when we're ever going to get paid back." ✨ HIDDEN ADVANTAGE [57:48]: Leverage your core business to build your own assets. "I had this experience and I gained all this knowledge on how to do this development and I thought, man, this is stupid for me to keep putting all this money in everybody else's pocket. I'm just going to do this for myself... I get to use the dirt guys to go in and develop that site and then I get to use my construction guys to come in and build the homes." 💡 LEADERSHIP LESSON [1:03:33]: Stay grounded, even as you climb. "You have to wear multiple hats, but you can't have such a big head that your head won't fit back in the other hat... I grew up working right beside my dad doing whatever we could do, you know, and that's who I am." 🔗 CONNECT WITH JOHN:  Official John Seaman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialjohnseaman/?hl=en  Official John Seaman YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@officialjohnseaman  JC Property Professionals: https://www.jcpropertyprofessionals.com/ 

Frustrated by the lack of skilled tradespeople? Demi Knight Clark joins Taylor today to share strategies to attract the next generation to welding and manufacturing offering fresh and frank perspectives that will give you actionable recruiting strategies.Discover how to bridge the gap between outdated perceptions and the exciting possibilities of a trades career! Demi Knight Clark, shares her insights into attracting diverse talent pools and creating a modern, appealing image for the industry. Learn how to tap into untapped demographics, challenge conventional recruiting methods, and build a pipeline that ensures a thriving future for the trades. Her experience growing up with a ‘Rosie the Riveter’ as a grandmother, mixed with her technology background give her a unique perspective on the industry.Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/recruit🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [0:1:44]:"Let's stop talking about saying, ‘Oh, we need more trades.” Okay, how are you going to get it? Are you talking to 12 to 16 year olds that are pre-guidance counselors? Because if you're not, you need a strategy and then also to your career transitioners to get those butts in seats that you're looking for now."⚠️ WAKE-UP CALL [0:13:33]:Struggling to find diverse candidates?"When the topic came up of like, ‘Hey, we want to see more women,’ it's like, ‘Well, where are you going? You're going to programs that have 29 out of 30 white males in that program. The one woman is getting fought over.’"Discover the untapped talent pools you're overlooking and start building a truly diverse workforce.✨ HIDDEN ADVANTAGE [0:15:26]:Ready to modernize your recruiting strategy?"Right now in the US, these manufacturers, go support women's sports...you have a female audience that has a penchant to doing DIY work, wanting to learn, use their hands, do outdoorsy work and skills because they're sporty."See exactly why women's sports is a growing market you should target your marketing towards.💡 LEADERSHIP LESSON [0:24:03]:Want to be a better leader?"You get in there and you be the ‘got it girl’ or the ‘got it guy’."Follow these steps to see growth in your leadership and management.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Welding to the Moon: Introducing Demi Knight01:59 - The Future of Welding: Recruiting the Next Generation06:50 - She Built This City: Empowering Young Builders08:32 - Recruiting Women vs. Recruiting Gen Z in Trades12:21 - Where to Find Future Welders and Trade Workers16:27 - Making Blue-Collar Careers More Attractive21:06 - Creating Inclusive Work Environments in Construction26:53 - Leadership Development: The Key to Workforce Growth30:14 - How to Engage and Retain Young Workers33:50 - Training for the Future: Fast-Track Welding Programs35:09 - The Pride of Building: Why Blue-Collar Work Matters🔗 CONNECT WITH DEMI:Website: https://www.demiknightclark.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/demiknightclark/Linktree: https://linktr.ee/demiknightclark#Welding #SkilledTrades #GenZRecruiting

Struggling with employee turnover and work-life balance? Dan and Jenna Moon from Total Excavating and Grading join Taylor today to share their journey of taking over the business and building a thriving company! Together, they reveal practical leadership and restructuring secrets to create a family-first culture. Learn how to improve your team, skills, and find time for what really matters! Discover the key insights that transformed their company and how you can achieve business success without sacrificing everything else. Building a great business and a great life IS possible!🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:💰 EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION [00:9:59]:"Our kids, they need to be very grateful for all of the employees that decide to show up for us because all of the things that we get...the trips, all of those pieces, it's because we have people that are willing to come work for us."Seriously, guys, this is gold. Hear how Dan and Jenna teach their kids to be grateful for the team. It's not just about the bottom line; it's about building a company where everyone feels valued. You can't fake this stuff, and it pays off in employee loyalty big time.💡 SUPERINTENDENT STRUCTURE [00:19:26]:"Now we have superintendents that get assigned a job or a project...It's working out a lot better now that way. Before we had no one really specifically taking care of the project."Struggling to keep projects on track? Dan and Jenna found that putting supers in charge was a game-changer. This isn't just about micromanaging; it's about giving someone ownership and making sure those balls don't get dropped between the field and the office. Check out this system - could be a lifesaver.🔑 LEADERSHIP EVOLUTION [00:22:41]:"I would get frustrated and basically scream and holler and call people names...I just finally realized that you don't get anywhere talking to people that way."Alright, gotta be honest – who hasn't lost their cool on the job site? Dan gets real about his evolution from screamer to, well, a better leader! This is a must-listen if you're looking to create a positive work environment.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Dan and Jenna Moon01:01 - What Total Excavating Does and Favorite Projects03:04 - How They Took Over the Family Business05:33 - Balancing Marriage, Family and Business Ownership07:40 - Teaching Work Ethic, Gratitude and Leadership to Their Kids12:34 - Raising Kids While Running a Growing Business15:29 - Managing 60 Union Employees and Building Leadership Structure19:05 - Role of Site Supers21:47 - Dan’s Shift from Old-School Boss to Modern Leader23:21 - Training Foremen to Lead — Why It Matters26:08 - Using Extreme Ownership to Build Company Culture27:48 - Adding Emotional Intelligence to Leadership Training29:46 - Future Plans for Leadership and Employee Development31:58 - In-House vs Outsourced Training🔗 CONNECT WITH DAN and JENNA MOON:Total Excavating Website: https://totalexcavating.net/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/totalexcavatingandgrading/Dan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-moon-9869b6123/Jenna’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-moon-5779b3123/#ConstructionBusiness #FamilyBusiness #EmployeeRetention 

Struggling to scale your excavation business? Trey Bohannan, President of Design One Contracting the most-viewed construction podcast guest of 2024, returns to reveal the exact steps he took to go from small residential jobs to landing major commercial projects – and how you can do it too.Trey shares his unfiltered, no-BS approach to growth, including the crucial "lucky phone call" that changed everything, how to navigate the pitfalls of commercial work, and why maintaining your core values is the ultimate key to success.Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/recruit🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:❌ REALITY CHECK [06:10]:"They need to have a little bit of capital built up, whether that being your grandma has $10,000 in the bank and can help you out, you know, whatever it takes to get there...if you’ve got any quit in you, you might as well go to Dollar General and just Stockbridge, because that's where you’re going to be the rest of your life."Trey lays down the hard truth about the financial cushion you must have to survive (and thrive) in the commercial excavation game – or face the consequences.🚀 NEGOTIATION SECRETS [15:12]:"A lot of our jobs seem like the last five years are negotiated... They'll say, ‘Hey, we’ve got a budget.’ I'll say, ‘Hey, I want to get every bit of that.’"Learn Trey's powerful negotiation tactics for maximizing your profits on commercial projects and why GC relationships are your golden ticket to bigger deals.🔑 TRUE SUCCESS [32:46]:"If you start a business and you run it for 10 years, 15 years, it changes you from who you were 15 years before…And if you ever act like you're better than somebody you have totally lost."Trey's insights regarding staying grounded, true success, and the most important thing to have to offer: being a good human being.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Trey Bohannan: From TikTok to the Most Listened-to Podcast of 202401:07 - Turning Loss into Leadership02:52 - The Most Common Questions Aspiring Excavators Ask04:26 - Breaking into Commercial Construction06:10 - The Financial Realities of Commercial vs. Residential Work07:57 - Learning from Mistakes09:20 - How to Handle Construction Change Orders & Get Paid on Time10:49 - Why Trey Runs a 100% Commercial Business & How He Manages It13:00 - Running Multiple Projects Smoothly14:52 - Estimating Right17:57 - Smart Growth19:50 - Building a Lean, Versatile Crew for Maximum Efficiency22:18 - Mentorship & Giving Back: Supporting the Next Generation24:36 - Handling Financial Struggles26:08 - Business Stress is Real29:22 - The Power of Patience33:12 - Staying Humble34:54 - Work Hard, Play Hard38:28 - Relationship Building39:25 - Looking Ahead to Con Expo 2025🔗 CONNECT WITH TREY: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@treybodirt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treybodirt/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@treybodirt Design One: https://www.design1landscaping.com/ #ConstructionPodcast #CommercialConstruction #ExcavationBusiness

Frustrated with outdated manufacturing processes? Discover how engineering expert Andrew Schiller of Utah Tech University is revolutionizing how students and professionals think about design, automation, and the future of construction. Andrew reveals that engineering isn't just about calculations, you get to see real world applications of everything from start to finish.Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/recruit🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [16:02]:"There's a really cool company right now called Toolpath Labs and they have an AI tool...you can load a 3D model in there and it will tell you ‘you can machine this’ or ‘you can't machine this’...So I was using it the other week and took what would probably be 45, 50 minutes of work and made it 5 minutes."Watch how AI is transforming even the most complex manufacturing processes, saving time and boosting efficiency.🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:✨ INDUSTRY GAME-CHANGER [07:29]:"There are some Tesla models that have a front and a rear frame component that's a die cast aluminum part, but it's huge...and they can make very large single piece castings. And I believe it's in the back of the Model S, they're using this die casting for the rear of the frame and they're replacing something like 320 individual parts with a single casting."See how groundbreaking manufacturing innovations are not just for Tesla – they're impacting the entire heavy equipment industry, leading to greater efficiency and affordability.⚠️ AI DISRUPTION ALERT [14:08]:"The people who are currently most concerned about AI are generally the people who do a lot of writing... I have students submit stuff that's purely written by AI sometimes...But that is a huge question. How is AI changing both education on my end and then for a company like Caterpillar or an equipment manufacturer, or even for you for what you do?"Learn how AI's rapidly evolving capabilities are forcing a rethink of traditional roles and skills, and why embracing (not fearing) the change is crucial.⚡ REAL-WORLD APPLICATION [26:55]:"My motive in doing that is part of what we've been talking about. Students have a somewhat limited understanding of ‘here's what it would look like to be an engineer’....So my hope in doing that and really goal was to expose students to these companies and this equipment and say, “Hey, this is the kind of place you could work for.”"Andrew takes his students to CONEXPO-CON/AGG to expose them to real-world applications of everything that they are learning.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Engineering Meets Real-World Manufacturing01:09 - From Idea to Production02:48 - Trends in Engineering Students06:11 - Tesla’s Game-Changing Manufacturing Innovations08:51 - Inside Caterpillar09:19 - Engineering Starters & Alternators for Large Equipment12:06 - Robotic Assembly13:50 - The Complexity Behind Engine Control Modules14:06 - AI in Manufacturing18:06 - Autonomous Machinery and 3D-Printed Foundations20:14 - AI's Role in Construction22:06 - How Students & Businesses Are Embracing AI26:46 - Engineering Careers That Truly Make an Impact26:56 - Taking Students to CONEXPO-CON/AGG28:38 - The Hidden Engineering Behind Everyday Machinery29:54 - Extreme Conditions30:23 - The Importance of Showcasing Engineering in Construction🔗 CONNECT WITH ANDREW: [email protected] Utah Tech University

Taylor goes solo again this week, this time to answer some of your questions, including those regarding the history of Ken White Construction, how he balances the intense demands of running it, and his commitment to family and personal well-being. Throughout the episode, Taylor explores the power of strategic time management, the importance of a supportive partner, and the long-term vision for a multi-generational family business.Feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of your business, leaving little time for family or yourself? This episode reveals how to "pick your times" for work and family, demonstrating that intentional balance is key to both professional success and personal fulfillment. Join Taylor here today to discover how to build a thriving business, nurture strong family bonds, and create a lasting legacy that future generations will be proud to inherit. And don’t forget to keep those questions coming!Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/recruit🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [17:01]: "Pick your battles and marry the right person and know your times. I cannot stress that enough." Taylor emphasizes that achieving balance hinges on choosing your priorities wisely, having a supportive partner, and understanding the seasonality of your business.🎯 KEY EPISODE TAKEAWAYS:✨ GROWTH OPPORTUNITY [16:29]: "I have an awesome, awesome wife. And that is honestly the glue that holds this papier-mâché of life together. I could not do what I do without her…But you’ve got to pick your times with your family." Discover how setting aside dedicated time for family, even amidst a busy work schedule, can strengthen relationships and provide much-needed rejuvenation.⚠️ ANXIETY WAKE-UP CALL [18:43]: "Where my anxiety comes from is I have something. I mean, obviously I've never got, like, I've done some therapy, but I've never gone to, like, somebody being like, “This is what you have.” But the best way for me that I could say is I have cardiophobia, I guess they would call it." Learn how even successful entrepreneurs grapple with personal challenges and the importance of prioritizing mental health.⚡ QUICK WIN FOR LEGACY BUILDING [24:11]: "My kids will not step over a ladder. They will not climb a ladder, they will not skip steps on the ladder, metaphorically speaking." Get a practical tip on instilling a strong work ethic in the next generation, ensuring they understand the value of hard work and earning their place.Hear how Taylor's commitment to family and his vision for the future are shaping Ken White Construction's legacy, as he reveals the strategies that allow him to thrive both personally and professionally.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Feedback for Content Ideas01:45 - History of Ken White Construction04:30 - Taylor’s Backstory09:06 - Taylor’s Role in the Business12:14 - Balancing Your Business, Your Family, and Yourself17:52 - Importance of Self-Care and Managing Stress20:23 - Setting Up the Next Generation for Business Success22:13 - Legacy Planning and Community Impact29:23 - Closing Thoughts and Future Podcast Plans🔗CONNECT WITH TAYLOR:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=caInstagram: @kwc2000

Discover how Ken White Construction turned seemingly devastating staff departures into their biggest year yet. This episode explores the power of adapting to change, promoting from within, and taking calculated risks to achieve remarkable growth.Worried about losing key employees and the impact on your business? This episode shares how to navigate unexpected departures and rebuild a stronger team, demonstrating that setbacks can be opportunities for positive transformation and growth. Tune in today for a masterclass on how to embrace change, learn from challenges, and conquer obstacles to overcome and achieve even greater success.Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/recruit🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [09:38]: "Promoting within created some of the best culture, but also created some of the best opportunities."✨ TURNING EMPLOYEE TURNOVER INTO GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES: [07:04] "We created another entrepreneur...we create entrepreneurs here." Discover how embracing employee departures as entrepreneurial opportunities can shift your perspective and fuel growth.⚠️ BUSINESS STAFFING WAKE-UP CALL: [16:04] "Don't hire people for a position that you know nothing about." Learn the critical lesson of understanding every role in your business before delegating.⚡ QUICK WIN FOR LOCAL MARKETING: [27:50] "For the homeowner stuff, the signage out on roads is huge." Learn the simple yet effective marketing strategy of using road signs to attract local clients.Hear how promoting from within led to Ken White Construction's incredible year and biggest job yet as Taylor reveals the benefits of turning apparent setbacks into monumental triumphs.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Conquer and Overcome: Turning Challenges into Opportunities03:23 - Splitting Responsibilities to Navigate Leadership Challenges05:11 - Learning the Fundamentals of Business Operations07:47 - Promoting Within to Build Culture and Efficiency11:05 - Transforming Setbacks Into Wins for Business Growth14:03 - The Importance of Understanding Roles Before Hiring20:28 - Taking Calculated Risks for Business Expansion26:00 - Strategies to Secure Work and Build a Strong Brand29:18 - Client Relations: The Key to Positive Word-of-Mouth32:57 - Executing Large-Scale Projects for Business Growth34:53 - Reflecting on Growth and Lessons Learned in Business🔗CONNECT WITH TAYLOR: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca Instagram: @kwc2000

How This Family Business Has Thrived Over 4 Generations - With Julie Evans SandersThis week, Taylor sits down with Julie Evans Sanders, Chief of Operations at H. W. Tucker Co., and fourth-generation construction business owner, to discuss the unique challenges and rewards of leading a family-owned company in the dynamic world of construction. Julie shares her invaluable insights on bridging generational divides, fostering employee loyalty, and thriving in a competitive market. Running a successful multi-generational business is a dream for many, but adapting to a changing workforce while upholding core values can be a delicate balancing act. Julie’s journey, as shared here today, offers valuable lessons in navigating these complexities and building an enduring legacy. This episode is essential listening for anyone in construction, but especially those involved in family businesses.Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/recruit🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [21:12]: "What motivates me every day is our employees...I need to make sure that I'm doing the best I can so that our employees have everything they can have for their families." Discover the profound impact of employee-centric leadership as Julie shares her inspiring driving force.⚡ QUICK WIN [06:26]: “I think get out there and start working.” Challenge the conventional wisdom that a college degree is the only path to success. Explore alternative educational avenues and the transformative power of hands-on experience in the construction field. This is a game-changer!⚠️ WAKE-UP CALL [11:53]: Struggling with employee engagement and a lack of drive? "If you give them a reason to show up early, they're going to, but if you don't, they're not going to." Julie reveals how strategic incentives can revitalize your team's performance. Don't miss this crucial insight!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Julie Evans Sanders and Her Journey in Construction01:16 - Evolution of the Family Construction Business02:42 - Balancing Education and Practical Experience in Construction05:03 - The College Debate06:26 - Importance of High School Trade Programs and Internships08:27 - Bridging Generational Gaps in the Construction Workforce11:22 - Incentivizing Punctuality and Work Ethic in Modern Teams14:40 - Challenges of Being a Fourth-Generation Woman Leader in Construction16:00 - Preserving Legacy While Adapting to Modern Practices17:34 - Passion for Excavation and Transformative Earthmoving Projects18:33 - Balancing Work Responsibilities with Family Life20:22 - Building Employee Trust and Loyalty as a Leader21:00 - Motivation Driven by Employee Well-Being23:02 - Historical Foundations of H.W. Tucker Construction25:20 - The Sweet Spot of Managing a Small, Impactful Business26:15 - Shift from Concrete to Large-Scale Excavation Projects28:05 - Strategic Equipment Investments30:24 - Importance of Sustainable Practices in Construction Operations37:02 - Innovations in Rock Crushing and Material Reuse39:01 - Localized Projects and Longstanding Client Relationships🔗 CONNECT WITH JULIE EVANS SANDERS:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliesanders13/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hwtuckercompany/#Construction #FamilyBusiness #WomenInConstruction

Matt Bachtel of Bachtel Excavating joins Taylor today to discuss his journey from one man and a truck to a thriving multi-generational business. Matt shares his conservative approach to growth, emphasizing the importance of consistent, meticulous work, and open communication with his team. He reveals the surprising risks of staying small, the challenges of balancing family life with entrepreneurship, and the critical roles that both his wife and his right-hand man, Keith, have played in his success. Matt also offers invaluable insights into attracting and retaining young talent in the trades, fostering a positive company culture, and adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of the construction industry.Do you fear taking risks in your business? Are you concerned about attracting and retaining talent? Matt's conservative approach and focus on consistency created a company culture that attracts young talent. Today, he shares how open communication and a supportive environment have been key, and how, by prioritizing these values, you, too, can build a resilient business.Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/recruit🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS:⚠️ FEAR OF FAILURE [07:44]: "It's rare that somebody can come in with very little experience and take on all that debt and have it work out." Hear Matt's perspective on leveraging debt responsibly and avoiding the pitfalls of overextending your business.✨ DESIRE FOR GROWTH [22:20]: "Word of mouth, social media...we've gotten the reputation as being the place to send your son or daughter...a safe place to send that kid..." Discover how building a positive company culture can attract the next generation of skilled workers.⚡ PRACTICAL TIP [29:47]: "We collect good data and job costs, but we don't do enough post job analysis...to really use all that good data and apply it to the next job." Learn how to implement post-project reviews to improve efficiency and profitability.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Managing a Family Business and Balancing Growth02:03 - Mitigating Risk in Business Growth03:17 - Overcoming Fear of Risk When Starting a Business05:19 - Determining When to Rent vs. Buy Equipment07:19 - Managing Debt and Equipment Maintenance Costs09:59 - Balancing Conservatism and Calculated Risk-Taking12:14 - Defining Effective Leadership Qualities15:19 - Reflecting on the First Year in Business and Early Growth17:24 - Making the Decision to Hire the First Employee18:28 - Navigating the 2008 Financial Crisis20:47 - Maintaining Business Diversity (Commercial and Residential)22:18 - Attracting and Retaining Young Talent in the Trades23:45 - Building a Positive Company Culture26:04 - Communicating Finances with Your Team28:01 - Conducting Post-Project Analysis for Improvement30:30 - Balancing Productivity with Team Debriefing and Training31:30 - Long-Term Business Planning and Succession Strategies35:11 - Balancing Work and Family Life as a Business Owner37:46 - Supporting Employees' Well-being and Mental Health40:31 - Embracing Change and Adapting to Industry EvolutionLINKS:Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=caTo see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlightsCONNECT WITH MATT BACHTEL:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-bachtel-927a2547/Bachtel Excavating: https://www.bachtelexcavating.com/#excavating #leadership #culture 

This week, Taylor sits down for an informative and inspiring conversation with Nic Parish, VP of Contracting and Operations at Burns Dirt Construction, and a key player in FORGE Your Path, a nonprofit dedicated to encouraging the next generation to explore careers in the trades. In this fascinating episode, Taylor and Nic dive into the importance of trades education, the challenges of running a family business, and how to create pathways for young people to develop meaningful careers in construction.Nic shares his journey, from growing up in the family business to helping launch programs that teach essential skills like operating heavy equipment and leadership. He and Taylor go on to discuss the evolution of construction work, dealing with the pressure of running a company, and the need to instill leadership qualities in new generations to fill the growing skills gap. Alongside that, our special guest’s passion for mentoring the next wave of tradespeople through FORGE Your Path and the Burns Built Academy shines through as he recounts the impact these initiatives have had on his community and industry. Nic’s dedication to empowering young people, supporting mental health, and fostering a culture of continuous growth is on full display here today, serving as a powerful reminder that investing in people is the key to long-term success in any industry.Episode Highlights:Challenges of running a family businessImportance of leadership and mental well-being for successFORGE Your Path: nonprofit introducing students to tradesBurns Built Academy: technical and leadership training for employeesContinued education to close the construction skills gapSupportive, growth-focused company cultureAddressing mental health in leadership rolesEmphasizing leadership development alongside technical skillsKey Takeaways:"You can only make a bulldozer work as well as the person running it. Good people make good machines effective.”"FORGE Your Path was born out of us asking, 'What are we going to do about it?' Instead of just complaining about the labor shortage.""It's not that the next generation is lazy; they just want to learn and progress faster.""I realized that I wasn’t trapped by my business. I had the opportunity to impact the lives of 300 people and their families.""We’re not just training students on how to operate machinery; we’re teaching them how to be leaders.""Leadership is more important than skills because leadership is what drives the work forward.""FORGE Your Path isn’t about making a profit—it’s about creating opportunities for the future.""The construction industry isn’t just about holding a stop sign on the side of the road; it’s about building a future.""We have to flip the traditional education model—learning doesn’t stop when you leave school. We’re building a school within our company.""Mental health is something we need to talk about more, especially in our industry, where the pressure can be overwhelming."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links:Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=caTo see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlightsNic Parish: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicparish/Burns Dirt: https://www.burnsdirt.com/

James Simmons, Co-founder of Montana Excavation & Utilities, joins Taylor on the podcast today to share his journey from Pennsylvania to Montana and discuss the trials and triumphs of building a business in the excavation industry. From early entrepreneurial ventures as a teen mowing lawns to managing a growing excavation company, James’ story is one of resilience, determination, and smart risk-taking. Whether it’s overcoming financial challenges or navigating the competitive Bozeman construction market, his experiences provide valuable insights for listeners in the construction and business sectors.Together, Taylor and James dive deeper into the realities of owning and running a business in construction, discussing the importance of taking calculated risks, maintaining older equipment to manage overhead, and the struggles of balancing mental health while growing a business. James emphasizes the critical role of partnerships, both in business and personal life, to share the burden and keep motivation high. He also reflects on the power of a clear vision, including the use of vision boards to stay focused on both personal and professional goals. Whether you’re interested in business growth, construction, or personal development, this episode is packed with actionable advice based upon real-world experience that will undoubtedly prove invaluable.Key Themes:James’s journey from a small lawn care business to co-founding Montana Excavation & UtilitiesThe challenges of managing a growing business in a competitive marketThe importance of taking risks and managing overhead with older equipmentHow partnerships in business can alleviate stress and share responsibilitiesThe mental and emotional toll of entrepreneurship and the value of resilienceThe role of vision boards in setting and achieving personal and business goalsLessons learned from starting over and the power of persistenceTop Quotes:"Running a business isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s full of risks, sacrifices, and challenges.""The more you work on your business, the more work you create for yourself. It’s a never-ending cycle.""Having a business partner is crucial—you need someone to share the load and make sure the numbers add up.""Never give up. Have a clear vision of what you want to do, and trust that the hard work will eventually pay off.""I started with $30,000 and quickly found myself broke in Montana, but that experience was humbling and essential for growth.""Older equipment means lower overhead, but it also means constant repairs—it’s a balance you have to manage.""Mental health can take a beating in this industry; finding a way to de-stress, whether it’s through the gym or therapy, is critical.""Scaling too fast can destroy a company—growing responsibly and with intention is the only way forward.""At the end of the day, if you’re not passionate about what you do, no amount of work will be sustainable."Links:Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=caTo see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlightsMontana Excavation & Utilities: https://www.excavatemt.com/

Taylor welcomes Lynn Miller, President of Miller Earthworks, to the podcast this week to explore his remarkable journey from a rather modest start to leading a successful family-owned business. Highlighting his unique approach to excavating which involves focusing on niche projects that larger companies often overlook, Lynn discusses with Taylor the importance of fostering strong relationships with customers and employees, the challenges of steady growth, and the benefits of keeping business local.Lynn’s story emphasizes key themes such as balancing business expansion with personal life, cultivating a supportive company culture, and the value of mentorship. From making smart financial choices to prioritizing work-life balance, our guest provides practical advice for anyone looking to start or grow a business. His conversation with Taylor here today also covers navigating economic shifts, investing in employees, and building a company rooted in loyalty and integrity. In essence, Lynn's journey serves as a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about growth—it’s about staying true to your values, investing in people, and creating a legacy of integrity.Episode Highlights:The importance of focusing on smaller, niche jobs in the excavating industryHow to foster a loyal, motivated workforce through employee involvement and careBalancing business growth with personal and family lifeThe value of mentorship and having trusted advisors in businessKeeping operations local and building strong, long-term relationships with clientsNavigating financial challenges, from debt management to strategic growthThe role of faith, family, and community in shaping business decisionsKey Takeaways:"We started out with pretty much nothing. I borrowed money from a neighbor to buy that first piece of equipment. We have a lot to be thankful for.""I love to involve my guys in decisions. It brings a lot of ownership and shows their value.""Having a mentor is a big thing. A banker, insurance company, and accountant that share similar values go a long way.""Relationships are key.”"There are sacrifices to be made in business. Work is the temporary part. The long term is your family.""I love to run equipment. I would still be on equipment if I didn't have anything else to do.""Building strong relationships with your customers and employees is so big in business.""We have a lot to be thankful for."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links:Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=caTo see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlightsKomatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/Lynn Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-miller-24361260/Miller Earthworks: https://millertrenching.com/

Sitting down for a chat with Taylor today is none other than Bret Barnhart, President of Barnhart Excavating in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Bret shares his incredible journey, from humble beginnings working with his father and grandfather to growing his company into a thriving business that handles both municipal and commercial projects. Together, he and Taylor discuss Bret’s family legacy, his hands-on experience digging storm shelters, and the unique challenges of working in Tornado Alley. Throughout the episode, Bret dives deeper into the realities of running a multi-generational business in the construction industry. He talks about his struggle to find the right people, the importance of understanding financials, and how he transformed his company’s trajectory by investing in the right tools and systems. Bret also shares his personal experiences with balancing work and family life, and the lessons he's learned about leadership, resilience, and growth in a highly competitive market. His insights on navigating cash flow challenges, leveraging opportunities, and maintaining strong relationships with clients and partners will resonate with any business owner in the construction field. Join in today and experience Bret’s story - a compelling tale of grit, hard work, and dedication to keeping his business alive through changing times.Topics: The origins of Barnhart Excavating: A family business dating back to the 1930s Bret's transition from hourly work to running a company with a broader scope of services Challenges of operating in Tornado Alley and how it shaped their approach to storm shelters The importance of financial discipline and investing in estimating software Navigating cash flow challenges in the construction industry, especially with fluctuating costs Family dynamics in a multi-generational business and the balance between work and personal life Building a strong team: Hiring the right people and avoiding excuses in business operations The significance of no-regrets leadership and setting clear core values for the company Key Takeaways:“You either buy them out, or you go out of business with mules.”“We’re building a new office, and the safe room is coming in today — gotta be ready for those tornadoes.”“I was making $55 an hour, working seven days a week, and I knew I had to do something different.”“If you could multiply your five best people, you could take on anything in this world.”“You’ve got to figure out how to make it work, even if you’re paying 14% interest on your first loan.”“I didn’t realize what it really took to grow until I was standing at the edge of bankruptcy.”“Once you know your equipment costs down to the hour, you’ll never estimate the same way again.”“Protecting the family name while pushing for growth — that’s the balance we all have to strike.”“You can't rely on cheap labor to build a quality company.”“Business can be hard on marriage, but you need the right support to make it through.”As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Bret Barnhart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bret-barnhart-027a4821/ Barnhart Excavating: https://barnhartexcavating.com/

Michael Melicia, the founder and CEO of Coastal Paving and Excavating, joins Taylor this week to share his remarkable journey from starting a business with just $500 to leading a thriving civil engineering and construction company. Along the way, Michael and Taylor explore the challenges of starting a business at a young age and how Michael navigated these obstacles with determination and resilience. The discussion also highlights the transformative power of social media in business growth, with our guest emphasizing how a strong online presence has been instrumental in expanding his company’s reach and reputation. Additionally, Michael talks about the importance of maintaining a warrior mindset in the face of adversity, balancing family life with the demands of entrepreneurship, and the critical role of personal branding in building a successful business.Michael further delves into his unique and effective leadership style, which sets him apart in the industry, and shares his perspective on the future of Coastal Paving and the evolving landscape of content creation. He offers valuable insights on risk management and the lessons he's learned from past failures, reinforcing the idea that staying true to oneself is essential for long-term success. This episode is rich with advice on work-life balance, entrepreneurship, and strategic business growth, making it a must-listen for anyone in the industry or aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to learn from Michael’s experience and expertise. With powerful takeaways on the intersection of personal and professional development, this conversation provides listeners with the tools and inspiration needed to succeed in their own ventures.Topics: The journey from $500 to a successful paving and excavating business The impact of social media on business growth The challenges and rewards of starting a business at a young age The importance of a warrior mindset in entrepreneurship Balancing family life with business responsibilities The role of personal branding in business success Michael’s unorthodox and effective leadership style The future of Coastal Paving and content creation Key Takeaways:"Sometimes you're just two letters away from being what you need to be to get the job done: a warrior or a worrier.""Starting a business is all about effort at the end of the day.""I want to live forever a little bit through my personal brand and my story.""Business takes sacrifice, but the balance with family is what creates a healthy ecosystem.""If you can't read the energy of other humans, you're missing a crucial skill in business.""Every failure is a lesson – learn from it, adjust, and move forward.""I want to create a legacy, something big to leave behind.""You need to water your plants at home for them to give you the oxygen to grow your business.""Whoever you are when the camera’s off, that’s who you should be when the camera’s on.""High risk, high reward – it’s all about managing that balance."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Coastal Paving and Excavating:  https://coastalpavingex.com/ Coastal Paving Instagram: coastalpaving_ex Michael’s Instagram:  michael_a_melicia

Taylor welcomes the truly amazing Matt DiBara, a fourth-generation mason and the founder of The Contractor Consultants to the podcast today. At just 31 years old, Matt has transformed the recruitment landscape for contractors, offering a fresh approach to an industry rich in tradition. With over 100 years of family history in the masonry business, Matt's story reflects a blend of dedication, innovation, and a commitment to blue-collar excellence. Together, he and Taylor delve into the complexities of running a family business, the value of preserving hands-on experience, and the crucial role of innovative recruitment strategies in the construction industry.As they explore Matt's journey, the conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a generational legacy in the masonry sector while adapting to the evolving dynamics of a family-owned business. Matt discusses how his upbringing, deeply rooted in blue-collar values, influenced his approach to business and life, leading him to develop a recruitment model that connects skilled workers with great employers. The episode also touches on the significance of employee appreciation, the challenges of achieving work-life balance as an entrepreneur, and the strategies that enabled Matt to break into the high-profile Los Angeles market. As you will hear, Matt's story is a powerful reminder of the impact that innovation and a strong work ethic can have in the construction industry and beyond.Topics: Generational Legacy: Upholding a 100-year family business, emphasizing hands-on experience, and addressing blue-collar work stigmas. Business Growth: Scaling through strategic geographic expansion and diversification of services. Innovative Recruitment: Transforming how skilled workers connect with employers in the construction industry. Employee Appreciation: Fostering a family-like culture and respecting employees to ensure loyalty. Work-Life Balance: Navigating the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship with family responsibilities. Market Expansion: Successfully entering the competitive Los Angeles market by seizing new opportunities. Key Quotes:"Treat customers like neighbors, you'll never make the wrong decision.""We become your hiring partner, embedding our team within your company to find the right people.""Hiring is such a hack; it's the biggest lever pull you can have in a business.""People want to feel appreciated, and that often comes from the small, consistent gestures.""I’d rather fail on the things I believe in than succeed on something I can’t stand behind.""We were exponentially growing, but the big push to grow was always about doing right by our clients.""Recognizing the breakout projects and obsessing over them helped build our network.""The honest employee audit helps catch the little friction points before they become big problems."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Matt DiBara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewdibara/ The Contractor Consultants: https://thecontractorconsultants.com/

Joining Taylor for a truly inspiring conversation today is Mike Simon, Founder of Dirt Perfect, an excavating business in southern Indiana built upon the rock solid foundation of commitment to family, community, and helping others. A lifelong tradesman turned YouTube star known for his hands-on approach and construction expertise, Mike shares his fascinating journey from the field to social media fame, including his transition to specializing in excavation and the unexpected success he has found online. Throughout the interview, Mike offers candid insights on running a small business in the construction industry, and discusses the challenges and rewards of working in the trades, the impact of social media on his field, and how he balances work with family life. Taylor and Mike also delve into the evolving landscape of construction equipment, including the rise of automation and electric technology. Packed with relatable experiences and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for everyone, especially those passionate about a career in the trades. Don't miss out - tune in and gain valuable perspective from a construction industry insider! Topics:  Mike Simon's journey from a lifelong tradesman to YouTube content creator  His transition from construction to focusing solely on excavating in 2018  The role of social media in modern construction businesses  Balancing work, family life, and personal passions  Insights into managing a small, profitable business  The pros and cons of old versus new equipment  The future of automation and electric equipment in the construction industry  Key Takeaways: "I've always been in the construction industry, a lifelong tradesman and damn proud of it." "In 2018, I shut down the construction business and focused solely on excavating." "Sometimes you wake up, pinch yourself, and wonder, “How in the heck did I get here?" "Bigger isn't always better; I'm perfectly content where I'm at." "Social media has actually freed up some of my time because I don't have to chase every job." "Keep it professional, whether it's in the comments, the posts, no matter what you do." "I've structured my business to my strengths, and that's what works for us." "I like the smaller stuff; I don't like being on a job site for more than about two weeks." "You need more tools in that toolbox to apply to whatever situation or job you have." "Life is short, man, you’ve got to enjoy it." As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/ Links:  Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca  To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights  Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/  Dirt Perfect:  Website: https://www.dirtperfect1.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dirtperfect/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dirt.perfect/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvn8y5Gf090ljxf9xbG5K3w 

Brian Hess, the dynamic owner of The Pavement Group, Top Contractor School, and One Key Media, takes time out of his incredibly busy schedule to join Taylor on the podcast today to discuss his remarkable journey from construction to becoming a tech-savvy entrepreneur. Emphasizing the importance of creating a strong company culture and balancing family life with business, Brian’s insights on authentic social media engagement, effective leadership, and the value of building meaningful relationships are both inspiring and motivational.Recounting the transition from his construction background to entrepreneurship, Brian highlights the diverse roles he has embraced. Along the way, he stresses the importance of authenticity over vanity metrics in social media and focusing on genuine content to build meaningful connections. Our very special guest also shares strategies for managing a growing business while maintaining a strong family presence, emphasizing the need for effective leadership and a supportive team. Through personal anecdotes, he illustrates the challenges and triumphs of business growth, underscoring the critical role of networking and long-term relationship building. As you will hear, today’s episode with this truly multi-talented industry leader is absolutely jam-packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to succeed in the construction industry and well beyond.Topics: Brian’s journey from construction to entrepreneurship Authenticity in social media Building a strong company culture Balancing business and family Effective leadership Navigating challenges and triumphs The value of networking and relationships Lessons learned Key Takeaways:"I will sacrifice followers, likes, and comments for authenticity. I'm not necessarily worried about every person in the world wanting to follow our journey. I'm looking for the right ones.""My biggest goal was to create a culture where people really love to come to work and they could be proud of what they were doing.""Busy people understand busy people. If somebody doesn't understand that you don't have time for something or your time is stressed, it's probably their misunderstanding of how busy people actually operate.""I think a lot of business owners are missing the boat on not having media as part of their strategy because that podcast is a way to coach your team.""We all need to do a better job in our industry of treating the customer really, really well, having great communication, having visibility, collaboration, and transparency in the process.""From the beginning of my social media journey, I was trying to appeal to a different audience than everybody else because, for me, it was a method to build relationships and find clients."“The number one priorities are my family, my businesses, the people that I'm responsible for in my life."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Brian Hess: Website: realbrianhess.com FB: facebook.com/brianhessenterprises LI: linkedin.com/in/realbrianhess/  IG: @realbrianhess YT: @1TeamMedia X: @realbrianhess

Taylor is joined today by the dynamic duo of James O'Connell and Joey De Athe who run Soil Cycle, a subsidiary of Contour Group, that was established in 2020 to provide additional support to Contour’s earthworks division by delivering cost-effective services for the disposal of excess soil. Known for brilliantly transforming the landscape of soil management, our guests discuss the intriguing world of bulk excavation, soil management, and their innovative approaches to navigating the complex regulations of Ontario’s construction industry. Delving into the crucial role of relationships and strategic business decisions in the challenging yet rewarding field of soil management, our guests share their journey from the grassroots level to becoming leaders in the industry. They emphasize the importance of integrity and transparency in their operations as they explore how recent regulations have shaped their business strategies and the innovative solutions they've implemented to stay ahead. The discussion also highlights the significance of land ownership, the complexities of acquiring permits, and the financial intricacies involved in running a soil management business. You do not want to miss this episode filled with inspiring tales of perseverance, a veritable wealth of business acumen, and valuable insights into the evolving landscape of environmental responsibility in construction.Episode Highlights: The evolution of Soil Cycle How it has adapted to and capitalized on Ontario’s strict soil management regulations The challenges and rewards of establishing a trustworthy reputation among developers and builders Insights into the permitting process for soil management The importance of relationships in the construction industry Strategic business decisions that establish market dominance and trust The future of soil management, focusing on sustainability and the potential for rehabilitating land for agricultural use James and Joey's proactive approach to education and advocacy in improving industry standards and practices Key Takeaways:"We're just boots on the ground, knocking on doors, leaving no stone unturned relentlessly, and now it's just kind of all paying off.”"Developer relationships are crucial, especially in a business where trust and reliability lead to better opportunities and fairer deals."“It's just kind of working with what we’ve got and adapting and trying to be innovative as well.”“We're hoping that we can get in front of the council and at least say, ‘Hey, listen, here are the new amendments. They're not going to work. Here's why they're not going to work. Let's work together.’”“We spent a couple hundred thousand the first year just on working on permits.”"It's not just about moving dirt; it's about moving the industry forward."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/     Soil Cycle: Web - https://soilcycle.ca/  FB - Soil Cycle Environmental  IG - @soil.cycle  @contour_groupofcompanies YT - @SoilCycleEnvironmental

Director of Aggregate Operations at Wm. D. Scepaniak, Inc., and fellow third-generation entrepreneur, John Scepaniak joins Taylor on the podcast today to explore the dynamic world of family-run businesses and a whole lot more. Sharing his firsthand experiences in managing the complexities of mining and road construction operations, John sheds light on the challenges of contract aggregate processing and adapting to various job sites. His conversation with Taylor here today delves into the significance of legacy, the pivotal role of social media in modern business strategies, and the critical importance of recruiting the right talent. Throughout the discussion, John recounts the history of his family business from its modest post-WWII beginnings to its expansive operations across the United States, and reviews the unique difficulties of third-gen business management, including navigating federal regulations and internal company decisions. He and Taylor reflect on the enduring importance of contributing to their family's legacy, the satisfaction derived from building a dedicated team, and the necessity of portraying work positively to children in order to provide a holistic view of entrepreneurial life that is both inspiring and practical. With a focus on balancing professional responsibilities and family life, John offers actionable insights and personal anecdotes that provide listeners with valuable takeaways. Don't miss this episode jam packed with entrepreneurial wisdom and practical advice for both seasoned business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.Topics: The history and expansion of John’s family business John’s engaging online content The challenges of managing daily operational issues The complexities of contract aggregate processing and working in diverse locations Taylor and John’s reflections on the legacy of their family businesses and the importance of contributing to this heritage The value of integrating work and family life and portraying work positively to children The strategic importance of hiring the right people and the long-term benefits of building a dedicated team The unique challenges and opportunities of running a family-owned business Quotes:"Be thankful that you can step back, see the big picture, and manage these issues.""We don't have the same struggles as our grandfathers, but our time will come.""Every generation adds something and builds onto something. It's about leaving a legacy.""Work is tremendously rewarding no matter what you're doing. Articulate that storyline to your kids.""I don't want my kids to grow up having a negative outlook on work. Work is rewarding.""You don't want to use social media as a tool to unwind. Use it wisely, or it can become a distraction.""It's not about hiring people. It's about hiring the right people. You need to find the right fit for the long term."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Wm D. Scepaniak Inc.: https://www.wdscepaniak.com/ John Scepaniak on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scepaniak-7284a4134/ John Scepaniak on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnscepaniak/ Wm. D. Scepaniak, Inc. on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wdscepaniak/

This week, Taylor finally gets an opportunity to sit down and have a chat in person with Silkstone Group’s CEO, Travis Hesketh, a fellow entrepreneur whose journey through professional motocross and a formidable construction career epitomizes both resilience and grit. Travis details his transition from the high-speed world of motocross to the equally challenging construction industry, illustrating how his competitive spirit and lessons from the racetrack have propelled his entrepreneurial ventures. Throughout the conversation, he shares candid insights into the setbacks that shaped him, including a significant legal ordeal that resulted in prison time but ultimately redefined his approach to business and life. Together, Travis and Taylor provide a profound look into overcoming adversity as well as harnessing personal growth and strategic thinking to manage and grow a construction business with passion.Along the way, listeners are treated to an intimate exploration of Travis's background, from his early days in motocross to establishing a thriving construction business. The discussion delves into the core attributes—such as risk-taking and vision—that link Travis’s past experiences to his current success, while also highlighting his commitment to family and integrating them into the fabric of his business. Key points covered include Travis’s strategic reasons for entrepreneurship over traditional employment, the impact of his incarceration on his personal and professional outlook, and his forward-looking plans for his business and family legacy. As you will hear, today’s episode presents a compelling testament to the power of resilience and the relentless pursuit of passion amidst life's myriad challenges, serving as a beacon of inspiration for anyone striving to overcome personal hurdles and succeed in the demanding construction industry.Topics: Travis's personal and professional background His entrepreneurial spirit Travis's legal issues and incarceration and their profound impact His decision to start his own construction company Balancing the demands of business with family life His future aspirations for his business and the legacy he hopes to leave for his family The role of personal growth, spirituality, and faith in shaping Travis's life after his legal challenges. How Travis’s background in motocross and his personal adversities have equipped him with unique skills for managing and growing his business Quotes:"I've been through hell, and I'm not back yet, but in and out, it feels like all the time.""If it was easy, everybody would be doing it.""I've always sort of been an entrepreneur. My roots were dirt bikes, motocross.""I obsess about whatever it is that I'm into.""I always aspired to be like those who were doing better than me.""I would look at a blank canvas of whether it's a forest or a field and I would have a track built in my mind.""I've made some bad decisions, I guess, that have led me to where we're sitting, but I have no regrets."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Silkstone Group:  https://www.silkstonegroup.com/

With apologies to all his other guests, Taylor welcomes “probably the smartest person” he’s “ever had the chance to interview” to the podcast - the mastermind behind Trunk Tools, Dr. Sarah Buchner. Among her many achievements, Sarah is a Stanford MBA Graduate, holds a PhD in Civil Systems Engineering and Data Science, has been named a Forbes ‘30 Under 30’ honoree, and is, most proudly of all, a carpenter. Today, she and Taylor dive into her fascinating journey from working in the field to becoming a tech entrepreneur and a pioneering CEO who is effectively transforming the construction industry. Illuminating the transformative power of integrating advanced AI technology, Sarah details how this cutting-edge approach revolutionizes construction by enhancing efficiency, reducing errors, and tackling the critical challenges of labor shortages and project management inefficiencies. She goes on to unveil the inner workings of Trunk Tools, revealing how the platform utilizes AI to manage vast quantities of construction data, representing a revolution in traditional construction methods, impacting everything from high-rises to infrastructure projects. Delving beyond the technology, Dr. Buchner also offers personal reflections on overcoming adversity, her unwavering entrepreneurial spirit, and her path as a female leader in a male-dominated field. Her conversation with Taylor here today is a compelling narrative of perseverance, innovation, and the power of technology to drive groundbreaking changes in one of the world's most essential industries.Topics: Dr. Buchner's journey from carpenter to CEO of Trunk Tools The pivotal role of AI in revolutionizing construction practices The development and impact of a health and safety app The crucial roles of education and perseverance in overcoming challenges and achieving success Transition challenges and successes from manual labor to a leadership role Insights into Trunk Tools' use of AI The broader application of AI tools in construction Dr. Buchner's reflections on breaking barriers as a female leader in a male-dominated field Her ongoing commitment to innovation in construction technology Quotes:“I love being in construction, don't get me wrong, but I am in construction completely involuntarily.”“How can I be running or managing a team of people where it's so dangerous that like somebody dies?...And I was decided that that's not how we should live still.”“I just felt like I can actually impact bigger amounts of people. And yeah, since then I've been doing software in the construction industry.”“I've always had an entrepreneurial mindset…I was just like, how can I make money?”"The distance traveled means more to me than the point where I'm at.”"We build the brain behind construction.”“We're working on automating the boring parts of construction that nobody really wants to do…where people show up to do the parts of their job that they actually want to do, that people are safe, and people are incentivized in the right way.”As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Trunk Tools: https://trunktools.com/

Luke Payne, President of Western Excavation, returns to the podcast today to join Taylor for a candid exploration of the intricacies of entrepreneurship, resilience, and work-life harmony. Their discussion, filled with personal anecdotes and professional advice, touches on the importance of a supportive family foundation, the concept of a "zero-fail mentality" for business success, and the evolving landscape of leadership and success in the modern world. This is a truly enlightening episode which not only illuminates the paths to navigating the construction industry's challenges, but also probes the societal shifts influencing work ethics and personal fulfillment.Luke and Taylor go on to address practical aspects of business management, such as tackling seasonal operational challenges and the benefits of digital project tracking. In addition to emphasizing the significance of venturing into new business territories and reevaluating traditional operational methods to enhance efficiency and productivity, this talented duo also ventures into motivational strategies for employees, suggesting innovative approaches to foster a motivated and engaged workforce. Through a blend of poignant stories and insightful discussions, they offer a multifaceted perspective on balancing the demands of a thriving business with the priceless moments of family life. As you will hear, this episode stands as a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of success, encapsulated in the journey of navigating the complexities of the construction industry while cherishing the value of family time.Topics: The significance of camaraderie and support among entrepreneurs Key attributes essential for success in the construction industry The concept of a "zero fail mentality" The importance of family involvement in achieving a balanced work-life integration The role of spousal support in navigating business and family life Insights into the challenges of managing a construction business Exploring digital solutions for enhanced job tracking and project management Employee incentives and creating a culture of transparency and shared goals Societal shifts in the perception of success Quotes:"You need to have grit, mental toughness, and be competitive. At the same time, you need to be friends with the people you compete with.""Having a zero-fail mentality means putting yourself in a position to not fail.""I think people value time over possessions now.""We are called to suffer in business. We are called to suffer in life because it helps us reach that future potential.""You know, Taylor, you gotta make time for your family.”"I'm going to go to the places that people don't want to go, or it is a harder area, and there's risk of people breaking into your equipment, stealing your equipment, but I'm also going to charge for that."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Western Excavation - https://westernexcavationnd.com/ Dirt Bags Podcast - https://dirtbagspodcast.com/ Luke Payne on LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-payne-86752119a/

The legendary “Dozer Dave” Turin, a stalwart of gold mining from the acclaimed series Gold Rush and the brain behind America's Backyard Gold, joins Taylor here today to share his journey from civil engineering to becoming a venerated figure in both television and gold mining. This episode delves into the heart of gold mining, touching on the historical significance, the personal narratives intertwined with the quest for gold, and the evolution of mining depicted through television. Dave's stories offer a panoramic view of the mining landscape, revealing the challenges of starting anew in the industry, the critical role of family support in his ventures, and the indomitable spirit required to pursue the lustrous allure of gold.Dave’s latest series, America's Backyard Gold, emerges as a tribute to the enduring legacy of mining in North America, where he intertwines the thrills of discovery with the personal stories of those he encounters along the way. Listeners are treated to behind-the-scenes insights, heartwarming tales of resilience, and Dave's reflections on the environmental and regulatory challenges facing today's miners. This narrative-rich exploration into gold mining goes beyond the mere extraction of a precious metal, highlighting the human experiences that color the industry and the technological advancements that continue to shape it. Dave’s conversation with Taylor serves as a testament to the unexplored potentials still hiding within the earth, promising adventure and camaraderie to those willing to listen to the land's whispered secrets. Join us on this golden journey where history, human interest, and the pursuit of gold converge into an unforgettable adventure.Topics: Dave 's journey from a civil engineer to a celebrated figure in the gold mining industry The dual nature of gold mining The critical role of family support in mining ventures Personal growth through the lens of gold mining Behind the scenes of gold mining reality TV shows "America's Backyard Gold" as a homage to the history of gold mining The value of community within the mining industry Dave Turin's insights into the modern challenges of gold mining Quotes:"There are still a lot of states that will let you go out with a pan or a highbanker and a shovel.""You're out there in the beautiful outdoors and it's physical work, so it helps you stay in shape.""Gold fever is pretty real. People get really passionate about it.""Gold is a big part of Canadian history and a big part of America's history.""If we take time to listen to somebody's story, everybody's got a story, and it's interesting.""I love the history. I love to hear people's stories.""There's still gold out there to be found.""I've been doing this for 15 years, and I know of two successful gold miners that are on a smaller scale."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Dave’s website: https://dozerdave.com/ Dave’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grdozerdave/ Check out Dave Turin’s new show 'America’s Backyard Gold' streaming now on Discovery Plus: https://www.discoveryplus.com/gb/show/americas-backyard-gold

In today’s exclusive episode, Taylor takes center stage, embarking on a solo journey filled with invaluable insights gleaned from questions sourced directly from the CONEXPO-CON/AGG Instagram community. Delving into the heart of the construction industry's challenges, Taylor fearlessly addresses topics such as cash flow struggles, the significance of hard work in entrepreneurial endeavors, and the intricate dynamics of family-owned businesses. Through candid anecdotes and unfiltered reflections, Taylor offers a raw and authentic glimpse into the realities of running a thriving construction company while navigating the complexities of personal life.Throughout the episode, Taylor provides practical advice on an array of pressing issues, ranging from stress management and strategic decision-making to the art of cultivating genuine connections with both employees and clients. From dissecting the nuances of financial management in the construction sector to advocating for authenticity in marketing strategies, our host leaves no stone unturned in his quest to empower professionals within the industry. Join Taylor on this enlightening solo expedition as he offers open and honest responses to those questions uppermost in the minds of listeners, and navigates the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, construction industry dynamics, and the relentless pursuit of equilibrium between professional success and personal fulfillment.Episode Highlights: Financial Management: Taylor provides insights into the challenges of maintaining cash flow in the construction industry Entrepreneurship and Hard Work: Drawing from personal experience, Taylor emphasizes the value of hard work and perseverance in entrepreneurship Balancing Work and Family Life: Taylor opens up about working with family and the struggles of balancing the demands of work with personal responsibilities Marketing Authenticity: Discussing effective marketing strategies, Taylor underscores the importance of authenticity and understanding one's audience Team Dynamics and Hiring Decisions: Taylor shares his approach to hiring and team management Strategic Decision-Making: Through anecdotes and examples, Taylor explores the process of making strategic business decisions, including when to say no to projects Audience Engagement and Feedback: Taylor encourages audience engagement, inviting listeners to suggest future podcast topics and share feedback Quotes:"The best thing about what I get to do every day and market for Ken White Construction is I am my audience.""Hard work will always outshine someone who is just smarter.""The best form of marketing is having someone who understands your goals and audience creating your content.""If you're struggling to attract construction workers, take a look at your content.""We try to figure out if the person is a good fit. If they are, great. If not, we try to see if there is anything that can be corrected.""Don't make a boring elevator music video to attract someone who wants to run an excavator."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/

Katie Kelleher, aka “Katie Cranes”, an increasingly prominent, award winning figure in the construction industry joins Taylor for what turns out to be her first visit to the podcast today. Katie’s journey from a sales background to her current role as a crane operator and technical development officer exemplifies the importance of seizing opportunities, and embracing career transitions. Her experiences within the industry shed light on the challenges faced by women in traditionally male-dominated fields, underscoring the need for greater representation and visibility.By leveraging social media platforms like LinkedIn, Katie advocates for diversity and inclusion, inspiring others to pursue careers in construction and challenging stereotypes along the way. As Katie shares her firsthand experiences, the discussion highlights the multifaceted challenges encountered by workers in the construction industry. From gender disparities in personal protective equipment (PPE) to the lack of workplace flexibility, Katie emphasizes the need for tailored solutions that cater to the diverse needs of all workers. Through anecdotes and reflections, she demonstrates the importance of addressing seemingly small issues that can significantly impact workers' comfort, productivity, and overall well-being. Ultimately, Katie's journey serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and determination required to effect meaningful change in the construction sector, driving towards a more inclusive and sustainable future for all workers.Topics: Katie's transition from sales to construction Advocating for diversity and inclusion Leveraging social media Navigating career transitions Overcoming adversity Empowering the next generation Driving positive change Challenges in construction Quotes:"I didn't have any women that I knew that worked in construction, so it was a leap for me to think I could do this.""I thought, 'We need to flood images out there, I need to get more images of women doing different things out there.'""You go to an office, you start a new office job. People go, 'Oh, this is Katie. Welcome, Katie. Here's your new desk. Here's your new pen.' You went into construction, everyone's like, 'Get on with it.'""You go to bathrooms, women's bathrooms on construction sites, like, Lord, sometimes there are women's bathrooms, sometimes they're used as a storage cupboard.""There's these little things that we can change to make people's lives better and less uncomfortable.""We just expect them to plow on like workhorses and get things done. There's no flexibility in the workforce.""In order to make any change, it has to be everyone.”"The best times of my life I've had are on site.""Every little thing that I do, everything that I get invited to, absolutely blows my mind every single time.""It's about people. I love people, and I love getting different people in from different areas of the industry to tell their stories because that's the best way to sell the industry."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Katie Cranes: https://katiecranes.com/

Taylor welcomes Brian Dietz, Co-owner of Bob Dietz and Sons Inc., to the podcast today, and together, they turn their spotlight on achieving enduring success in the construction industry, particularly as a family-owned construction business. Brian shares his personal journey, instilled with an outstanding commitment to excellence and a strong work ethic passed down through generations. The podcast spotlights the potent force of teamwork, harmonious family dynamics, and technology's role in propelling their enterprise towards a prosperous future. Stressing the importance of nurturing a supportive and collaborative work environment as the foundation for success within these unique enterprises, this episode offers invaluable insights into the construction industry, where passion, technology, and strong relationships converge to drive growth and operational efficiency.Within their illuminating conversation, Taylor and Brian explore various critical themes deeply rooted in the construction realm including the legacy of family businesses, strong stakeholder relationships, evolving roles, and the immense impact that attending CONEXPO can have upon a business. They also examine scaling complexities, technological transformation, effective teamwork, lessons from debriefs, and the cultivation of a vibrant company culture. Taylor and Brian go on to express their enthusiasm for future expansion into new frontiers like deep utilities and seizing technology-driven growth opportunities. In essence, today’s enlightening episode sheds light on how embracing technology and upholding a collaborative ethos are essential components for a flourishing family-owned construction business in the ever evolving construction landscape.Topics: Family legacy in construction Harmonious family collaboration Building strong relationships Role transition for efficiency Scaling challenges Technology's impact Consistency and teamwork Lessons for Improvement Quotes:"You get out of it what you put into it.""You win together or you lose together.""You have to bring all this extra equipment and tools, and there's just a lot. You're making a thousand extra decisions a day.""We're trying to create a more organized and efficient system."“We bought our first excavator because we saw it at the 1985 CONEXPO. And then it just kind of led from there and grew…I mean the show has been huge for us in just being educated.”"People can talk about how they think everybody's a team, and we're one big happy family. But it's like, well, are you really?""You have to value every member of your team. If you don't have that, if their wife doesn't like you because they wanted to go on vacation and you're like, 'No, you can't go again,' you're just hurting yourself.""The productivity is unbelievable. When you hear people complaining about the technology and saying you're not a 'real' operator, I get a kick out of that."As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Bob Dietz and Sons Inc.: https://www.bobdietzandsonsinc.com/

This week, Taylor is joined by legendary leader of Blount Contracting and BuildWitt CFO, Randy Blount, who shares his inspiring journey of taking his family business to simply incredible heights of success. Together, they also dive into such essential themes as leadership, accurate job costing, and the intricacies of managing overhead costs, providing invaluable insights for professionals aiming to enhance the construction industry.Throughout this engaging episode, Randy shares his wealth of expertise, offering listeners some of the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the financial intricacies of the industry effectively. Emphasizing the importance of distinguishing true overhead from indirect expenses, Randy notes that misclassification can impact project profitability assessments. He also delves into the complexities of equipment-related costs, offers practical insights into accurate financial reporting, and introduces the concept of using "revenue per employee" - a strategic metric for construction companies to enable effective growth planning and proactive business management. Randy’s insights, as shared here today, into making informed decisions, optimizing costs, and planning for sustainable growth, ultimately contribute to the entire construction industry's ongoing improvement. You do not want to miss this opportunity to access the wisdom of this giant in the construction field that can absolutely transform your construction business and the very industry itself.Topics: Transitioning into leadership roles and shaping a business's future The impact of job costing complexities on profitability Distinguishing between indirect and administrative overhead costs Accurate project estimation and long-term cost management Challenges, opportunities, and the need for continuous improvement in construction Harnessing financial insights and effective management for growth and success Key financial management topics, including true overhead, equipment expenses, revenue per employee, and growth planning Quotes:"I tell people all the time, “Some people say I'm smart. I'm not sure if I'm smart, I think I'm just too dumb to quit."”"You learn by your mistakes.”"It doesn't matter how good your operational team is, if you get a bad estimate, it is really, really hard to overcome a bad estimate.""Sometimes it's having the confidence to hold your position when maybe everyone else around you is not.""We also did a five-year plan for our growth. And five-year plans are really like a plan, you know? Who knows if it's actually going to happen. But it's helped us put into perspective like, hey, we wanna grow this much over five years.""Take care of the business, and the business will take care of you.""Use the numbers, but then also weigh some of that experience.”"Don't be afraid to reach out to somebody who, you know, isn't in your region but does something similar, and just be like, “Hey man, I'm trying to understand some construction finance stuff. This is what I'm struggling with. Do you have any insight?"”As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Randy’s LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-blount-04a895a/