Strong Conversations

In this episode of Strong Conversations series, Sunny Bowman, CEO of Dakota County Lumber, joins our host Sam Marcoux and shares what it takes to lead a family business into the future. From second-generation ownership to driving innovation in a traditionally slow-to-change industry, Sunny offers a candid look at balancing legacy, leadership, and forward-thinking strategy. Key Takeaways: The responsibility and mindset shift that comes with full ownership and leading a legacy business How to modernize a traditional industry while staying rooted in core values Creating a culture of candor, continuous improvement, and team trust Why independent lumber yards can thrive through agility, innovation, and customer focus Preparing for the future with technology, AI, and last-mile delivery advancements

In this episode of Strong Conversations, Mike Ellerbrook, Executive Vice President of UFP Site Built, shares his 27-year journey from working in a plant at 18 to leading within a major building products company. The conversation dives into culture, multi-generational leadership, and what it really takes to stay relevant and win in a constantly evolving industry. Key Takeaways: - Why culture and having fun at work are essential to long-term success in the industry - Leading across generations: adapting your style while staying authentic and consistent - The importance of “dual learning” between experienced leaders and younger talent - Setting a clear expectation to win—and tailoring how you coach individuals to get there - Navigating post-COVID market shifts and resetting expectations for sustainable growth

In this episode of Strong Conversations: Real Stories, Sam Marcoux sits down with Steve Swinney, CEO and co-founder of Kodiak Building Partners, to unpack what it really means to bet big—and do it thoughtfully. From launching Kodiak during the Great Recession to leading a 5,500-employee organization into its next chapter with QXO, Steve shares lessons on risk, culture, scaling, and leadership. The conversation blends hard-won business insight with humor, reflection, and a few 1980s hair-metal references along the way. --- Episode Highlights · Why Kodiak’s biggest bets were bold but calculated · Lessons from starting a company during the Great Recession · How culture became the #1 diligence factor in acquisitions · What it’s like being acquired after 15 years of growth Steve is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kodiak Building Partners, a transformative force in the building materials industry that he has steered through strategic growth and 40+ acquisitions throughout the past 13 years.

In the second part of the Strong Conversations Lessons Learned series with 84 Lumber, we talk to Mitch Wagner, Vice President of Purchasing, who reflects on four decades in the building industry. From starting at $4.35 an hour to leading purchasing strategy for one of the most recognized names in the business, Mitch shares lessons on relationships, resilience, and leadership that endure through industry change. Key Takeaways: • How 84 Lumber builds careers that span decades • The importance of long-term relationships with vendors and stores • Why burning bridges is never an option in a consolidating industry • Lessons for salespeople on working effectively with purchasing leaders • The value of mentorship and succession in sustaining company culture

We continue our Strong Conversations Lessons Learned series with an episode with Frank Cicero, COO of 84 Lumber, who reflects on a 42-year career that began with handwritten tickets and grew into leading one of the largest players in the building industry. From mentors who shaped his leadership to lessons in humility, work ethic, and technology, Frank shares what it means to grow with a company while always keeping customers and associates at the center. Key Takeaways: • Why long-term success comes from listening to customers and associates • The influence of mentors and the importance of learning at every stage • How the building industry has shifted from generalists to specialists—and what’s next with technology • The leadership values that stand out: hard work, humility, and treating people with dignity

In this overtime edition of Strong Conversations, Jason Blair returns to explore life beyond the org chart. Part Three dives into passions, personal growth, and technology, revealing the thoughtful, competitive, and forward-looking mindset behind TAL’s leadership. From public speaking to golf to AI, this final chapter delivers powerful takeaways on staying sharp, staying human, and embracing what’s next. Key Takeaways: • Jason’s mindset on public speaking and how preparation beats “natural talent” • Why golf remains both a competitive outlet and a relationship-building tool • How TAL is forming an internal “Team AI” to future-proof its operations • The leadership lesson in focusing on what you can control

In Part Two of this three-part series, TAL Building Centers CEO Jason Blair returns to Strong Conversations for a deeper dive into the leadership lessons that shaped his career. From managing 180 people at age 24 to guiding a 500-employee company today, Jason opens up about accountability, feedback, and learning to lead other leaders. Key Takeaways: • How to seek, receive, and respond to feedback with intention • The challenges and breakthroughs of leading leaders—not just teams • Lessons in patience, title-chasing, and staying grounded in growth • Creating space for trust, delegation, and meaningful decision-making

In part one of this three-part Strong Conversations series, host Sam Marcoux sits down with Jason Blair, CEO of TAL Building Centers, for a candid, insightful look at career growth, leadership lessons, and the power of humble beginnings. Recorded in Jason’s own apartment in Vancouver, WA, the episode explores his journey from stocking paint at Payless Cashways to leading a 500-person company steeped in history and community values. Highlights include: • Why your title isn’t your job—and how Jason defines real responsibility • The early influences that shaped his leadership style • How a part-time gig turned into a lifelong career in building materials • The value of grit, mentorship, and lessons learned through hard work

In part two of our powerful conversation with Garrett Moore, we explore how the lessons from his Navy SEAL experience shaped his path into construction innovation, entrepreneurship, and ultimately, failure and rebirth. This is the story of resilience, brutal honesty, and the pursuit of purpose in the face of mounting pressure. Key Highlights: - The founding, rise, and fall of AGORUS: what went right and what went wrong - The emotional toll of leadership, burnout, and learning to ask for help - Lessons from failure: the cost of chasing too many goals at once - How focus and humility gave rise to a new venture rooted in teamwork and impact - Garrett’s vision for transforming construction through digital twin technology

In part one of our powerful two-part conversation with Garrett Moore, we dive deep into the extraordinary origin story of a man who’s not only a Division I quarterback and a US Navy SEAL but also the co-founder and CEO of TektonOS reshaping the construction industry. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the strength of high-performing teams. Key Highlights: - Global travel, family values, and early exposure to leadership shaped Garrett’s childhood. - Life at Stanford football under Jim Harbaugh, and lessons from an elite sports culture. - The journey from quarterback to Navy SEAL, and the life-defining experience of BUD/S training. - Endurance, teamwork, and decision-making under extreme pressure. - How one phone call from his wife during a mission would eventually define Garrett’s next mission—rebuilding trust and efficiency in construction. You won't want to miss this if you're interested in leadership, resilience, or simply hearing a great story.

This is one of our favorite episodes from our Live from the Simpson Strong-Tie booth at IBS 2025 in Las Vegas season. In this episode, we sit down with Tim Uhler, the powerhouse framer behind "Awesome Framers," to talk shop at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. Known for his mix of technical know-how, on-site humor, and authentic content, Tim shares how a simple Instagram joke turned into a full-fledged construction media platform. Highlights include: How Tim unintentionally became a social media standout in the trades The unexpected power of building education through short-form video Why connecting with real people at shows like IBS matters Behind-the-scenes stories of fake magic, real friendships, and builder wisdom

In another revisited episode from Live from the Simpson Strong-Tie booth at IBS 2025 in Las Vegas, we have a high-energy, insightful conversation with Jeff Lear, VP of Strategic Sourcing at Meritage Homes. Host Sam Marcoux and Jeff dive into what it takes to lead with focus and purpose in a demanding, fast-paced environment. - Learn how Meritage Homes is redefining new home construction with its Speed, Reach, and Compete strategy. - Jeff opens up about the value of mentorship, culture, and the adrenaline rush of public speaking. - Discover how Meritage’s spec-first model and 60-day close-ready promise are challenging the resale market. - A candid look at industry headwinds, including tariffs and affordability—and why optimism still wins.

We revisit some episodes from our Live from the Simpson Strong-Tie booth at IBS 2025 in Las Vegas. This episode dives into the dynamic world of builder partnerships with Madison Saab, VP of National Accounts at A Better Blind. In a high-energy conversation with host Sam Marcoux, Madison shares: - How a career path in engineering led to blinds and builders - What it means to bring tech-savvy strategy to a traditional product - The importance of turnkey readiness and builder incentives - Key lessons in leadership, mentorship, and navigating industry change - Why the building industry keeps people coming back—and staying for life Insightful, funny, and full of actionable ideas for anyone in building and design.

In this episode of the Strong Conversations Podcast – Building the Brand Series, host Sam Marcoux sits down with Rob and Travis Kerrick, the father-son team at the heart of United Production Framing. With nearly 70 years of combined experience, the Kerricks have helped shape thousands of homes across Southern California—and their story is as much about family as it is about construction. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How Rob and Travis’s personal bond translated into professional success - Rob’s journey from loading lumber at 15 to being one of the first to install Simpson’s original Strong-Wall - How Travis went from pursuing kinesiology to discovering his passion in construction management - Why their family-like approach to business has helped create lasting industry relationships - Their perspective on what’s next for framing and the growing role of innovation and technology Whether they’re racing trophy trucks in Baja or managing multi-family builds, the Kerricks bring energy, trust, and respect to everything they do. This episode is a conversation about legacy—what it means to build homes, careers, and community together.

In this episode of the Strong Conversations Podcast – Building the Brand Series, host Sam Marcoux sits down with John Kelly, founder of the Kelly Design Group, to discuss his journey from a hands-on builder to one of the most well-known structural engineers in Las Vegas. John’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and overcoming incredible odds—including surviving a near-fatal accident that reshaped his outlook on life and business. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How John’s early hands-on experience in construction gives him a unique perspective as an engineer - His journey from framing jobs in college to leading a top design firm - The accident that left him with 28 broken bones—and how he fought his way back - How that experience influenced his decision to start his own company with just $30,000 and one client - The importance of real communication and relationships in business - Why panelization and off-site construction are shaping the future of the industry John’s story is about more than just structural engineering—it’s about determination, adaptability, and never backing down from a challenge. Whether you’re in the construction industry or looking for inspiration to take your own risks, this episode is full of valuable insights.

In this episode of the Strong Conversations Podcast – Building the Brand Series, host Sam Marcoux sits down with Brian Larrabure, a trailblazer in the construction industry who took an unconventional path to success. Unlike many who are born into the trade or stumble into it, Brian was drawn to construction from a young age, shaping his own path with determination and a drive to build something lasting. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How Brian went from critiquing curb appeal as a kid to leading a major framing and panelization company - The unconventional career journey that led him from digging ditches to managing multi-million-dollar projects - Why he bet on panelization before the industry was ready—and how it helped his company survive the 2008 recession - The value of hands-on leadership and how an early mentor reshaped his approach to business - Lessons in differentiation, customer service, and long-term thinking in a highly competitive industry Brian’s story is about more than just construction—it’s about recognizing opportunity, betting on innovation, and leading with integrity. Whether you’re in the building industry or looking for lessons in entrepreneurship, this episode offers valuable insights from someone who built success from the ground up.

In this episode of the Strong Conversations Podcast – Building the Brands Series, host Sam Marcoux speaks with Roberto Ortiz & Winnie Sullivan, the leadership team at DCSE Associates. Their career paths were anything but typical—Roberto started his career as an intern, Winnie as a part-time receptionist—yet today, they lead the company as CEO and CFO. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - Roberto’s journey from immigrating to the U.S. at 15, learning English, and building a career in structural engineering - Winnie’s rise from the front desk to financial leadership, driven by ambition and a desire for impact - How Roberto balanced studying for his SE exam while caring for his premature newborn in the NICU - The importance of company culture and why transparency builds trust Winnie’s decision to donate a kidney to a colleague and what it says about leadership and community Ortiz and Sullivan didn’t just take over a company—they transformed it, preserving its culture while building something new. Their insights into leadership, perseverance, and teamwork offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating career growth or business ownership.

Strong Conversations at IBS 2025: Mollie Elkman of She Built Foundation/Group Two Mollie Elkmam, founder of She Built Foundation and Group Two Advertising, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Mollie talks about the importance and role of marketing and advertising in the building industry. We also talk to Mollie about what inspired her to start the She Built Foundation and writing the She Built books. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollieelkman/ https://grouptwo.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/shebuiltbooks/

Tim Uhler of Awesome Framers joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. In this conversation, we talk to Tim about what it takes to be a social media influencer and how that impacts the building industry. We also dive into why education is so important to the trades. https://www.instagram.com/awesomeframers/#

Every single one of us is in sales. Many people think sales is just taking customers out for expensive dinners or rounds of golf. Sales is about relationships and connections. It is about understanding not only your customers and their businesses but also understanding who they are as people. Wendi Zubillaga, Chief Sales Officer of Citadel Roofing and Solar gives us an inside look at what it takes to build your sales brand in the building industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendi-zubillaga-4631618/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/citadel-roofing-and-solar/ https://www.biabayarea.org/ https://citadelrs.com/

Melissa McGhee, VP of National Purchasing and Strategic Sourcing of KB Home, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Melissa returns to the Strong Conversations podcast to share what she is looking forward to in 2025. She shares her insightful perspective about the IBS show and the benefits she has gotten from attending this year’s show. https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-mcghee-0964247/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/kb-home/

Tom Winters, VP of Builders of Sherwin Williams, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Tom Winters is a legend in the building industry, having been a part of many industry associations. We also talk about how Sherwin Williams became a household name but why companies need to continue to innovate. https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-winters-2907509/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/sherwin-williams/

Scott Lang, VP of Residential Digital Solutions of Simpson Strong-Tie, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. We sit down with our own Scott Lang to talk about Simpson Strong-Tie’s approach to digital solutions for the building industry. We talk about how companies are adopting new technologies and how that has evolved. https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-lang-018b13a/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/simpson-strong-tie/

Jeff Lear, VP of Strategic Sourcing of Meritage Homes, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. In this conversation with Jeff, we talk about Meritage Homes approach to partnerships with manufacturers and companies in the supply chain. We take a look at Jeff’s leadership style and how he inspires and leads his team but also others within the industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/learjeff/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/meritage-homes/

Jamie Friling, COO of Mulhern + Kulp, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. We sit down with Jamie to talk about his career as a structural engineer and how new technology has changed engineering. We talk about adopting new digital solutions and how other companies can leverage technology to help their companies grow and be more efficient. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiefriling/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/mulhern-&-kulp-structural-engineering/

Mike Couch, VP of Sales, and Judson Diehl, Account Manager, both with Citadel Roofing join us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. In this conversation with Mike and Judson, we talk about the importance and relationships and networking. Mike and Judson also share about what they see in the industry and what they are excited about. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-couch-32b56672/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/judson-diehl-20655999/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/citadel-roofing-and-solar/

Tucker Bernard, Executive Director, and Geoff Cassidy, Chief Revenue Officer, both with NAHB, join us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. In this conversation with Tucker and Geoff, we get a look into what it takes to put on a major industry show like the IBS. The NAHB has a unique view of the builder industry as the representing association for the national building industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/tucker-bernard-b7bb35a/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-cassidy-5996b39/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-association-of-home-builders/

Frank Dix, VP of Sales for Zonda, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Zonda is the “source of truth” for many in the building industry. We dive into how Zonda became the gold standard for housing information and data with Frank. https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-dix-08b41249/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/zondahome/

eff Shore, Speaker, Author and Founder of Shore Consulting, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Jeff is one of the keynote speakers at this year’s conference and we dive into how Jeff got into consulting. Jeff has worked with countless leaders within the building industry and his passion is to help guide sales executives and teams to embrace their discomforts and transfer and grow in ways they didn’t think was possible. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshore/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/shore-consulting-inc/

Madison Saab, VP of National Accounts of A Better Blind, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. We talk to Madison about what trends she’s seeing in the building industry and what she is most excited about. https://www.linkedin.com/in/madisonbowles/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/abetterblind/

Cherie Abbott, National Coordinator, Builder Division of My Safe Haven, Sales Manager of Desert Fasteners, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Cherie talks about how she seamlessly manages a 65-person team while collaborating with thousands of buyers. We talk about what makes a “smart home” and their biggest misconceptions. https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherie-abbott-777836121/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/safehavensecure/

Tyson Clayton, Sales Manager of Desert Fasteners, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Tyson talks about the role and biggest misconceptions of the supply chain partners. https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyson-clayton-b434b7b/

Jeff Rogers, Purchasing Manager of Ivory Homes, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Jeff shares his almost 20-year tenure with Ivory Homes and how the industry has evolved in those 20 years. We also dive into how a company’s culture influences decisions on partnerships with companies that share similar values. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-rogers-b165437b/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/ivory-homes/

Branka Minic, CEO of the Building Talent Foundation, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Branka talks about BFT’s role in the labor and trade industry. We talk about how BFT works with builders, trade schools, manufacturers, and other partners to attract, train and retain good labor in the construction industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/brankaminic/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildingtalentfoundation/

Strong Conversations at IBS 2025: Darren Rohan of CBC Framing Darren Rohan, General Manager of CBC Framing, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Darren talks about his role as a framer in the building industry. We talk about the challenges framers face while at a job site and how important it is to work with the builder and trade partners. https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-rohan-6903b2101/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cbc-framing-inc/

Strong Conversations at IBS 2025: Andy Viars of Simpson Strong-Tie Andy Viars, Market Segment Director, Equipment of Simpson Strong-Tie, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Andy talks about Simpson Strong-Tie’s entry into equipment sales and how that fits into the company’s strategy. https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-viars/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/simpson-strong-tie/

Strong Conversations at IBS 2025: Tommy Jones of Stanley Martin Homes Tommy Jones, VP of Planning and Architecture of Stanley Martin Homes, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Tommy talks about Stanley Martin’s journey to adopt new technologies and how new solutions have played a role in their growth and efficiency. https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-j-21032413/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/stanley-martin-homes/

Strong Conversations at IBS 2025: Jake Shilling of Lennar Jake Shilling, Director of National Value Engineering of Lennar, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Jake talks about what he has seen change in his almost 30-year career in the industry and in multiple countries. We also talk about what are some of the challenges Jake and his team face as the industry continues to evolve. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-shilling-b0570a21/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/lennar/

Strong Conversations at IBS 2025: Tony McKlem of Hollywood Decks Tony McKlem of Hollywood Decks joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Tony talks about the trends in the outdoor living space and how he built a brand around building beautiful decks. https://www.instagram.com/hollywooddecks/ https://hollywooddecks.com/

Mike Olosky, CEO of Simpson Strong-Tie, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Mike talks about his predictions for the building industry in 2025. He also talks about the role and future of technology and digital solutions for Simpson Strong-Tie and our partners. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-olosky-9403b420/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/simpson-strong-tie/

In the third episode of the "Building the Brand" season, we learn that success is in the details. In this episode, Michael Wootten of RENO HARDWARE & SUPPLY, INC. joins Simpson Strong-Tie's Sam Marcoux. Mike shares how he built Reno Hardware and Supply into one of the most respected brands in the pro-supply industry. He attributes much of his success to paying attention to the details and keeping on everything.

In this episode of the “Building the Brand” series, we talk to Sharad Patel, Principal and Co-founder of Patel Burica & Associates, about what it means to not be a good follower. Sharad always knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur, following in his parents’ footsteps. While creating and building his brand, he learned to trust his employees. Even though Sharad is not a good follower, he learned what it takes to be a good leader.

Welcome to a brand-new season of Strong Conversations—Building the Brand! This season, we’re spotlighting the entrepreneurs and leaders shaping the building industry, uncovering the grit, determination, and passion behind successful brands. Together, we’ll explore what it takes to grow a bold idea into a thriving business while fostering a culture where employees and innovation can flourish. Episode 1: We Really Don’t Say No We’re kicking off the Building the Brand season with “We Really Don’t Say No,” featuring Jeff Moran, co-founder and manager of RebatePros. When a friend and colleague presented him with the challenge of simplifying manufacturer rebates, Jeff embraced the opportunity and never looked back. That decision sparked the creation of RebatePros, a company driven by a clear mission: “Simplify the rebate process for homebuilders and product manufacturers while ensuring timely and accurate reporting, invoicing, and collection.” Join us as Jeff shares how his philosophy of saying “yes” transformed an idea into a thriving brand.

Chad Scuncio had to leave Simpson Strong-Tie before realizing the company was home. Listen to Chad’s incredible story about how he got started, the detours that he took for family and personal growth opportunities, and how he ultimately landed as a Senior National Builder Manager with Simpson Strong-Tie.

Mike Glassmeyer, VP of National Purchasing for M/I Homes, didn’t take the linear path to where he is now. Having held various roles, from superintendent to sales, Mike recalls his journey from dreams of being a fighter pilot as a little boy to being a leader in the industry.

In our "Born Into It" episode, Strong Conversations host Sam Marcoux talks to Andy and Breezy Mitchell of Mitchell Lumber Co., who took over the business as third-generation owners after Andy’s dad passed away. Andy and Breezy share what it means to them personally to carry on the Mitchell Lumber legacy for future generations. Guests: Andy and Breezy Mitchell, Owners, Mitchell Lumber Co

THE FUTURE OF WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION In this episode, we talk to three rising stars not just in their companies but also in the industry. We get to hear personal stories about how each of guests entered in the industry but more importantly what’s keeping them in the industry. We share tips on how to be successful when you’re just starting out and how to create your own career path. HOST: Tina Haro – Senior National Accounts Manager, Simpson Strong-Tie Keaton Mower – National Accounts Manager, Westlake Royal Building Products Kristin French – Director of Purchasing, Taylor Morrison Justine Simmons - Director of Builder National Accounts, James Hardie Building Products

Join Simpson Strong-Tie as we invite partners, colleagues, and leaders together for insightful conversations. Stretch your mind with profound and powerful ideas that will help evolve how you think about the industry -- and your place in it.  We will dive deep into the subjects and issues that we all face -- forging stronger connections and relationships along the way.   Don’t miss this rare opportunity to get an in-depth look inside the minds of innovators and leaders who are reshaping and advancing the world we build and live in. WOMEN IN RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION PODCASTWelcome to our podcast on Women in Residential Construction hosted by Simpson Strong-Tie, a leading manufacturer and technology services company of engineered building products in the residential and commercial space. In this podcast we take a closer look at the women who make up the residential construction industry. We are going to have an open discussion about how we got here, what challenges us, motivates us and what makes us succeed. In each episode we will be joined by three guests to get their perspective on what it’s like to be in this field. We will talk about how women can effect change and create an environment where other women want to be a part of.THE IMPORTANCE OF MENTORSHIPMentorship is one of the most invaluable things that we can have in our careers and lives in general. We talk about the importance of mentorship, how we can find it, provide it, and foster it in our work environments. We also discuss the different types of mentorships whether it’s through a formal work program or informal with our own network.Hosted by Shelby Short, Director Global Quality (Simpson Strong-Tie  )Guests: Angie Roseman - VP Supply Chain Services & Business Optimization (Beazer Homes)Kellee Hansen, National Purchasing Director (Lennar)Rebecca Matmiller, National Accounts Sales Manager (Whirlpool) 

This episode's host: Simpson Strong-Tie Vice President of Engineering Annie KaoAnnie Kao, PE serves as Vice President of Engineering for Simpson Strong-Tie and leads a talented and passionate team who innovate, test, and support the most trusted product solutions in the construction industry. Prior to joining Simpson Strong-Tie, she worked as a project engineer on commercial and multi-family projects for a structural engineering consulting firm. She is a registered PE in California and earned her BS from Harvey Mudd College and MS from UC Berkeley. GUESTSCyndie Roche, Vice President of Digital Sales and Architectural Design Services (Paradigm, a division of Builders FirstSource)As an industry professional with more than 25 years in residential construction, Cyndie Roche’s breadth of experience and leadership capabilities span real estate lending, private land development and homebuilding. Her expertise and passion for technology have enabled her to serve the industry in senior leadership roles focused on ERP and architectural design software and services. She is also an active volunteer in her local HBA, a member of the NAHB Professional Women in Homebuilding, and an in-kind supporter of the St. Jude Dream Home program. Cyndie currently serves as the Vice President of Digital Sales and Architectural Design Services for Paradigm, a dedicated software division of Builders FirstSource. Kristi Acee, Vice President, National Accounts (Sherwin-Williams)Kristi Acee leads the National Accounts organization within the Americas Group of Sherwin-Williams. This is a dedicated, nationwide team offering innovative solutions for strategic clients in the new residential, multifamily, commercial real estate, hospitality, healthcare, franchise and government market segments. Her team works to align the resources at Sherwin-Williams with key client stakeholders, often through exclusive partnerships with many of the leading companies within these segments.Kristi began her career with Sherwin-Williams in 2012 as a National Account Executive, moving on to a Regional Director of National Accounts, Senior Director of Homebuilder Sales, and to her current role as Vice President of National Accounts. Prior to joining the Sherwin-Williams team, Kristi had worked in the paint industry for 10 years.Kristi has continued her executive education through a variety of resources including the Harvard Business School and the Strategic Account Management Association. Kristi holds a BA from Pepperdine University.Melissa McGhee, Vice President of National Strategic Sourcing and Supply Chain (KB Home)Melissa has been in homebuilding for 20 years in several construction operator and executive roles. She joined KB Home four years ago and is based in Phoenix, Arizona. She is responsible for a total construction budget of over $2B across single-family and multifamily homes in twenty divisions.   Melissa became the first female vice president of national purchasing in the top 10 homebuilders several years ago. During her free time, you will find her building Legos with her son, working on a home remodel with her husband or gardening.