Everything They Don't Tell You

Most leaders are trained to have answers. Warren Berger believes the better leadership skill is learning how to ask the right questions. In Episode 21 of Everything They Don't Tell You, Josh Zolin sits down with Warren Berger, author of The Book of Beautiful Questions and A More Beautiful Question, to talk about the underestimated power of questioning in leadership, business, creativity, and life. Warren explains why questions are not just conversation tools. They are leadership tools. The right question can open someone up, reveal bottlenecks, challenge assumptions, and bring people into the mission. The wrong question can shut people down, create defensiveness, and turn a conversation into an interrogation. This episode covers curiosity, humility, listening, follow-up questions, mission questions, the "question sandwich," and why leaders need to stop treating answers as the only currency that matters. If you lead a team, run a business, manage people, or want to communicate with more clarity and depth, this episode will challenge the way you think about leadership. __ ► Download Your 90 Day ROI Playbook — A value packed free guide created by Josh Zolin that teaches you how to Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains  https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook    

Most people think being a "nice guy" means being kind, generous, and easy to get along with. Dr. Robert Glover sees it differently. In this episode of Everything They Don't Tell You, Josh sits down with Dr. Robert Glover, author of No More Mr. Nice Guy, to unpack the hidden patterns behind approval-seeking, people-pleasing, covert contracts, shame, anxiety, resentment, and dishonesty. This conversation goes way beyond relationships. Dr. Glover explains how "nice guy" patterns show up in business, leadership, marriage, sex, decision-making, conflict, and personal ambition. For founders, leaders, and high-performers, the real danger is not that being nice makes you weak. It's that being nice can become a mask for fear, avoidance, manipulation, and unspoken expectations. Josh and Dr. Glover get into why relationships are not supposed to be easy, why honesty solves more than hiding ever will, why "good at being good" is not the same as being great, and how men can stop living from covert contracts and start living with truth, confidence, and responsibility. In This Episode Why "nice" is not the same as good, kind, or honest The difference between healthy guilt and neurotic guilt How shame and anxiety drive approval-seeking Why relationships become powerful personal growth machines The three covert contracts nice guys live by How nice guy patterns show up in leadership and work Why honesty makes life easier Why men avoid tension, conflict, and directness How to stop hiding what you want What it actually means to become integrated Guest Dr. Robert Glover is the author of No More Mr. Nice Guy and a longtime teacher, coach, and thought leader in men's emotional health, relationships, dating, sex, and personal development. His work helps men break free from approval-seeking and become more honest, integrated, and powerful in every area of life. Find Dr. Glover at DrGlover.com and Integration Nation. __ ► Download Your 90 Day ROI Playbook — A value packed free guide created by Josh Zolin that teaches you how to Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains  https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook      

Smart people do not usually fall apart all at once. They drift, and most of the time they do not see it happening. In this episode, Josh sits down with Todd Henry, keynote speaker, author, advisor, and founder of Accidental Creative, for a conversation about creativity, discipline, leadership, and what really causes people to lose their edge. Todd breaks down why creativity is not reserved for artists, why talent without practice fades fast, how leaders lose the through line in their work, and what boredom is actually trying to tell you. This is a conversation about staying sharp, staying grounded, and staying connected to the deeper reason behind what you build. __ ► Download Your 90 Day ROI Playbook — A value packed free guide created by Josh Zolin that teaches you how to Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains  https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook    

Why do some businesses keep growing while others stay busy but stuck? Brian Gottlieb breaks down the culture, leadership, and standards that actually move a company forward.   In this episode, Josh Zolin sits down with Brian Gottlieb for a deep conversation on leadership, culture, accountability, and what really keeps businesses from scaling. Brian shares lessons from building a business from a folding table and $3,000 into an industry-leading company with lifetime revenue nearing $1B. Together, Josh and Brian unpack why businesses stall, how founders become bottlenecks, why culture is shaped by what you tolerate, and how to create teams that can win without constant supervision. This episode covers: why the lead is sacred business disciplines vs SOPs leadership at 5, 50, and 500 employees empowerment vs micromanagement building KPIs people can actually control why culture is built, not bought how to create standards your team can actually live by __ Thank you to OneAccord for partnering with us on this episode. OneAccord's OASYS Strategic Planning & Execution system helps business owners increase company value, reduce owner dependency, and get truly ready for a successful transition or exit. Josh Zolin listeners receive a complimentary Value Readiness Snapshot using the link below.   Start here:  https://oneaccord.co/oasys/joshzolin    

What happens when the same toughness that helps you survive also starts costing you your marriage, your health, and your identity? In this episode of Everything They Don't Tell You, Josh Zolin sits down with Tony Rodarte, a retired Maricopa County Sheriff with 20 years of service, including 11 years in the homicide unit. But this conversation goes far beyond law enforcement. Tony opens up about the hidden cost of pressure, the toll that unresolved trauma takes on marriage and family, why "10 feet tall and bulletproof" is not a sustainable way to lead, and how vulnerability became one of the greatest strengths he discovered after service. They also unpack leadership, burnout, hiring, identity, emotional health, and Tony's work today as the founder of Compassion Alliance, a nonprofit helping first responders, spouses, and retirees get access to trauma therapy and support. In this episode: what 20 years in law enforcement cost him why toughness can become a liability the difference between being broken and not well how trauma shows up in leadership and marriage what "moral injury" actually means the pickup truck vs trailer hiring analogy why asking better questions changes teams and relationships how Compassion Alliance is helping first responders heal This is the kind of conversation that reminds me why this show exists. For truth. For the things people don't tell you about pressure, leadership, identity, and what it takes to stay whole while carrying a heavy life.   🚨 This episode is a special one. 🚨 Tony now leads Compassion Alliance, a nonprofit helping first responders, spouses, and retirees get access to trauma therapy and support. The work they're doing is not just important. It is saving lives and saving marriages. WCE has been a proud supporter of Compassion Alliance for some time now, which made this conversation especially meaningful for me. 👉 Check out Compassion Alliance here: https://compassion-alliance.org/ This episode is also part of Podcasthon, a global movement uniting podcasters around causes that matter. We chose to spotlight Compassion Alliance because their mission is real, urgent, and deeply needed. If this conversation moved you, check out the links below to learn more and support the cause. __ Thank you to OneAccord for partnering with us on this episode. OneAccord's OASYS Strategic Planning & Execution system helps business owners increase company value, reduce owner dependency, and get truly ready for a successful transition or exit. Josh Zolin listeners receive a complimentary Value Readiness Snapshot using the link below.   Start here:  https://oneaccord.co/oasys/joshzolin       #everythintheydonttellyou #podcast #leadership #firstresponders #mentalhealth #healing #podcasthon

If your business needs you for everything, it is not scaling. It is suffocating. In this episode of Everything They Don't Tell You, Josh sits down with Jacob Tilzer. Jacob is the Founder and Managing Partner of Accrual Equity Partners; An expert in the world of mergers and acquisitions who's lived the full arc: adversity early, discipline learned the hard way, and the operator-to-builder shift that separates a real company from a founder-dependent machine. If you're buying a business, selling a business, or scaling through acquisition, this conversation breaks down the mistake that wrecks most first-time buyers: obsessing over the deal and ignoring operations, systems, and integration. This conversation gets into the roots of building systems, empowering leaders, and installing guardrails so the business can grow with you holding the keys. What you'll learn: Why the deal is the easy part and integration is the real war The difference between a $1M company and a $10M company (and why your old playbook breaks) Why you cannot scale without empowering people and trusting the process What happens when your systems can't support growth How to think about integration before you ever sign __ Thank you to OneAccord for partnering with us on this episode. OneAccord's OASYS Strategic Planning & Execution system helps business owners increase company value, reduce owner dependency, and get truly ready for a successful transition or exit. Josh Zolin listeners receive a complimentary Value Readiness Snapshot using the link below.   Start here:  https://oneaccord.co/oasys/joshzolin __ ► Download Your 90 Day ROI Playbook — A value packed free guide created by Josh Zolin that teaches you how to Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains  https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook    

In this episode of Everything They Don't Tell You, I sit down with Amy Morin, licensed psychotherapist and author of the "13 Things Mentally Strong People Don't Do" series. We talk about the difference between mental strength and acting tough, why so many high performers avoid being alone with their thoughts, how to set boundaries without damaging relationships, and how to reframe failure so it stops owning your identity. If you're building a business, leading a team, or carrying more than you admit, this is an episode you can't miss. What you'll hear: Why "acting tough" is usually avoidance The list Amy wrote to survive grief Boundaries that protect you and respect others Why quiet time feels unbearable for so many people How to interpret failure without turning it into a verdict Subscribe for more conversations about leadership, business, and becoming who you're meant to be. __ Thank you to OneAccord for partnering with us on this episode. OneAccord's OASYS Strategic Planning & Execution system helps business owners increase company value, reduce owner dependency, and get truly ready for a successful transition or exit. Josh Zolin listeners receive a complimentary Value Readiness Snapshot using the link below.   Start here:  https://oneaccord.co/oasys/joshzolin __ ► Download Your 90 Day ROI Playbook — A value packed free guide created by Josh Zolin that teaches you how to Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains  https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook    

David Meltzer is one of the most respected voices in personal growth, leadership, and business. He's a globally recognized speaker, author, entrepreneur, coach, and Chairman of the Napoleon Hill Institute. In this short episode, we go deep on the invisible stuff that holds high performers back: the meaning you assign to your past, the difference between surrender and quitting, and the daily non-negotiables that create real results. Key ideas we cover: Why the "meaning of the past" can cap your self-image The "Stop, Drop, Roll" framework for getting back into alignment Non-negotiable behaviors, and why consistency beats intensity The trap of "I'll be happy when" and what to replace it with Why asking for help is the ultimate form of humility   Connect with David - https://dmeltzer.com/   __ Thank you to OneAccord for partnering with us on this episode. OneAccord's OASYS Strategic Planning & Execution system helps business owners increase company value, reduce owner dependency, and get truly ready for a successful transition or exit. Josh Zolin listeners receive a complimentary Value Readiness Snapshot using the link below.   Start here:  https://oneaccord.co/oasys/joshzolin   __ ► Download Your 90 Day ROI Playbook — A value packed free guide created by Josh Zolin that teaches you how to Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains  https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook    

BMI is one number, not the full story. Dr. Melody Rodarte breaks down what doctors miss and what actually matters.   In this episode, Josh sits down with Dr. Melody Rodarte, board-certified in Internal Medicine and Obesity Medicine, to unpack why BMI can be misleading, why "eat less, exercise more" is incomplete, and why calories are not metabolically equal. They cover GLP-1 medications and the right way to think about them, fasting vs timed restricted eating, autophagy, and why perimenopause can start earlier and last longer than most people realize. General discussion only, not medical advice.   __ Thank you to OneAccord for partnering with us on this episode. OneAccord's OASYS Strategic Planning & Execution system helps business owners increase company value, reduce owner dependency, and get truly ready for a successful transition or exit. Josh Zolin listeners receive a complimentary Value Readiness Snapshot using the link below.   Start here:  https://oneaccord.co/oasys/joshzolin __ ► Download Your 90 Day ROI Playbook — A value packed free guide created by Josh Zolin that teaches you how to Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains  https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook      

If you are building a company and feel like growth is getting harder, this episode is a reset. Adam Coffey is a veteran, former GE leader, and CEO who has built multiple companies for private equity, generating billions in exits. In this conversation, Adam breaks down the real CEO playbook: managing process not minutia, building leaders, setting a higher bar for growth, and how private equity actually works when it is done right. We cover: The shift from operator to conductor Why great leaders schedule real thinking time When to replace an underperformer The rule of 72 and why 10% growth is not enough How private equity creates the market founders sell into Why your first exit is not the finish line The "death of the click" and how AI is reshaping lead generation Connect with Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamecoffey/ Books: The Private Equity Playbook, Empire Builder, and more __ This episode is sponsored by OneAccord OneAccord's OASYS Strategic Planning & Execution system helps business owners increase company value, reduce owner dependency, and get truly ready for a successful transition or exit. Josh Zolin listeners receive a complimentary Value Readiness Snapshot using the link below.   Start here:  https://oneaccord.co/oasys/joshzolin      

The Truth About Business, Leadership, and Becoming Who You're Meant to Be   Welcome to Everything They Don't Tell You - the podcast for people building more than just a business. Hosted by Josh Zolin, this show dives into the stuff most people skip: the mental, emotional, and internal challenges that come with leadership. We talk strategy, yes—but also identity, mindset, freedom, and fulfillment. You'll hear from high-level entrepreneurs, experts, and operators on the truth behind the journey. No fluff. No guru speak. Just real stories and actionable lessons. Join us as we unpack the T.R.U.T.H.: Time. Responsibility. Understanding. Tenacity. Humility. Because scaling a business is hard. Staying connected to your higher self while you do it? That's even harder. This is Everything They Don't Tell You. __ ► Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook    

Most founders are building a business their body can't carry. Certified Health Nut Troy Casey joins me to talk about becoming hard to kill so your life and work don't collapse on you.   In this episode, I sit down with Troy Casey, the Certified Health Nut, to talk about health in a way most founders and executives never hear it. We get into his "nine pillars" of health, why your body and your word are the only two things you really own, and how to build a life that's hard to kill so your business and your family aren't gambling on a burnt-out version of you. Troy shares: How he went from Versace model to medicine hunter in the Amazon and the birth of Certified Health Nut The gym routine he uses for mental health and longevity instead of ego lifting Why he focuses on sleep, sunlight, movement and real food before gadgets and gimmicks What "health and your word" actually mean for integrity, posture and parenting How meditation, nature and community changed the way he leads and raises his kids Disclaimer: Troy shares his personal experiences and opinions about health, training, and different practices. Nothing in this episode is medical advice. Always talk to your doctor or a qualified professional before making big changes to your health routine. __ Guest: Troy Casey Certified Health Nut on all platforms Book: Ripped At 50: A Journey To Self Love __ ► Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook     Music Licensing by Audiio License #: 0981896904 #health #longevity #leadership

Most founders treat buying a business like a shortcut. In reality, your first acquisition is old-school marriage. It cannot end in divorce. Seth Deutsch joins me to unpack how to know if you should acquire at all, how to avoid blowing your first deal, and how to build an anti-fragile business that investors actually want.   Most founders think they have a growth problem. In reality, a lot of them have an acquisition problem waiting to happen. In this episode I sit down with Seth Deutsch, deal architect, investor, and operator who has led or advised on more than 70 acquisitions, helped build nine private-equity-backed platforms, and worked on over 2 billion dollars of enterprise growth. We talk about buy vs build, why acquisitions are like merging families, and the mindset you need before you go anywhere near your first deal. Seth breaks down culture, vision, peer-group cashless mergers, and what it means to make a business anti-fragile from an investor's point of view. We get real about customer concentration, deal structure, earnouts, and why buying a company to save a struggling one is like adding fuel to a house that is already on fire. He also opens up about complex PTSD and severe childhood abuse, how he hid it for years while building a high-performance career, and why he now speaks openly so other founders know it was not their fault and it does not have to define them. If you are thinking about buying a business, selling your own, or just want to understand how investors really see your company, this conversation will give you a real-world lens most people never share. __ ► Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook   __ Guest: Seth Deutsch Topic(s): Mergers and Acquisitions, private equity, owner operator, small business, investors, leadership, enterprise growth, cashless merger https://www.samsonpartnersgroup.com/   Music Licensing by Audiio License #: 0981896904 #cashlessmerger #business #privateequity  

Most owners in the trades do not have a revenue problem. They have a profit problem. Ben Hansen, the Profit Doctor, joins me to break down why you are working harder than ever with nothing to show for it and how to fix it.   In this episode, I sit down with Ben Hansen, the Profit Doctor, to dig into why so many blue collar entrepreneurs are incredible operators and terrible CFOs for their own company. We talk about the gap between turning wrenches and understanding your numbers, why most bookkeepers and CPAs are not setting you up to win, and what to do if your revenue is climbing but your profit is stuck.   Ben walks through his 4-part profit prescription, the difference between profit, revenue, and cash, how to think about pricing in the trades, and why you should stop doing the jobs that always lose you money. We also get into profititis, the 50–20 rule, and how cutting the worst 20 percent of your customers and work can be the fastest way to double what you keep. __ ► Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook   __ Guest: Ben Hansen, Profit Doctor Topic(s): Scale lean, boost margins, and build a business that actually gives you freedom, not just bigger numbers. https://profitdoctor.com/   Music Licensing by Audiio License #: 0981896904 #profit #profitability #smallbusiness

A candid business podcast for growth-minded leaders and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Josh Zolin. The truth about leadership, business, and becoming who you're meant to be.   Olympic gold medalist Joe Jacobi breaks down performance without the hustle theater: rehearse the day, put presence before future-self, and master wave selection (the art of letting most waves pass so the right ones carry you farther with less effort). We get tactical on routines, gratitude at the start line, 15-second resets, and why the small waves you surf will compound into big results.   ► Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook __ Guest: Joe Jacobi, Performance Coaching Topic(s): Rethinking and redefining what High Performance is and means today https://joejacobi.com/     Music Licensing by Audiio License #: 0981896904 #leadership #performance

Leaders don't get buy‑in by talking louder. Dave Garrison (CEO, advisor, author of The Buy‑In Advantage) breaks down how to make people care: confirm what they heard, define great, switch from human doings to human beings, and replace answers with questions so teams own the work. Plus: the 30% raise rule, warning signs you're losing buy‑in, and the one meeting question that changes everything.   ► Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook - Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook   Music Licensing by Audiio License #: 0981896904  

Leadership that lasts looks more like a hive than a pyramid. Philip Atkinson (consultant and beekeeper) explains how: the queen serves the hive, communication is clear and consistent, leaders "sense the system," and careers evolve through many roles. Plus: three coaching skills to practice this week (listen, ask better questions, stay curious).   ► Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook   Check out Philip's book Be Wise and Bees for Development (proceeds to charity). 🐝 Bee Wise: 12 Leadership Lessons from a Busy Beehive https://a.co/d/5nPnC9h https://beewisebook.com/

Stop waiting for perfect. Start today. Al Levi breaks down why momentum beats perfection, how to "box" your business so it can scale, and the seven powers he uses to build teams and companies that last. Al Levi shares the mindset and mechanics to grow: start now, ship at 80 percent, and build on documented systems, not slogans. We get into his "seven powers" framework (planning, operations, staffing, sales, sales coaching, marketing, finance), why people need the why, and how to turn ideas into a focused "top five" plan you'll actually finish. We also hit training that sticks, marketing that maps to sales, and the long game of leadership. Episode Guest: Al Levi - 7powercontractor.com/systems -- A candid business podcast for growth-minded leaders and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Josh Zolin. The truth about leadership, business, and becoming who you're meant to be.  🎯 Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook  

A candid business podcast for growth-minded leaders and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Josh Zolin. The truth about leadership, business, and becoming who you're meant to be.   What happens when a CEO stops optimizing for the quarter and starts optimizing for people? Henny Penny's Rob Connelly walks us through why they converted to an ESOP (employee stock ownership plan), how it changed behavior on the floor, and the leadership credo that guided the journey: "Savor the day while always learning for a better tomorrow." We talk long-view decision making, radical accountability, and why "start with people and the numbers will follow" isn't just a slogan — it's the operating system. — Guest: Rob Connelly, Executive Chairman, Henny Penny Topics: ESOP mechanics, culture shifts, long-term vs short-term, optimism with realism, profit sharing, supplier health, zero-layoff philosophy. 🎯 Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook

A candid business podcast for growth-minded leaders and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Josh Zolin. The truth about leadership, business, and becoming who you're meant to be. Episode 3 with Dr. Gay Hendricks (The Big Leap): We unpack the Upper Limit Problem and how to spot it in real time, then move into practical tools for living in your Zone of Genius. We cover the fears that trigger self-sabotage, the two questions that reveal your genius, excellence vs genius, how to handle worry thoughts, and why wonder is a leadership superpower. What you'll learn • Upper Limit Problem, in plain English • Four common fears underneath self-sabotage • Two questions to find your Zone of Genius • Zone of Excellence vs Zone of Genius • How to work with worry thoughts and control • Simple ways to befriend fear Guest: Dr. Gay Hendricks - author of 40+ books including The Big Leap; co-founder, The Hendricks Institute Listen on your favorite app Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podcast page: https://www.blueisthenewwhite.com/podcast 🎯 Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook

A candid business podcast for growth-minded leaders and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Josh Zolin. The truth about leadership, business, and becoming who you're meant to be.   🎯 Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains https://bitnw.academy/roiplaybook   How high-performing dads win at home like they do in business. We talk presence vs. hurry, immature vs. mature masculinity, self-leadership, "be where your feet are," the Preparation Pause, and why coachability beats clout. Practical, human, and immediately usable.   Topics we cover • Presence over hurry • Coachability vs. clout • "Be the thermostat, not the thermometer" • The Iron Five (find your men) • Self-leadership before team leadership • Legacy in the ordinary moments   Guest: Mitchell Osmond — Founder, The Dad Nation Podcast / content / coaching focused on helping 6–7 figure men show up at home and at work.  The Connection Code

Everything They Don't Tell You with Josh Zolin and guest Christian Ray Flores. Leaders don't freeze because they'll fail. They freeze because they'll be rejected by the tribe. Christian Ray Flores breaks that loop and gets practical: build an offer (Persona, Problem, Promise, Process) and use the Seven Fs to scale without losing yourself. 🎯 Free resource: 90 Day ROI Playbook — Multiply Your Profits with the Skills No One Trains Highlights: • Fear of failure vs fear of rejection and tribal wiring • "Fit in by standing out" — in service to your tribe • Offers > services: the 4 Ps framework • The Seven Fs radar: Faith, Family, Friendships, Finances, Fitness, Fun

Today marks the end of an era. After 200 episodes, countless conversations, and more "aha" moments than I can count, it's time to say goodbye to the Blue is the New White Podcast.  When I started this podcast, I had one goal: to shine a light on the incredible power of the blue-collar world and to help business owners and tradespeople realize their full potential.... What I didn't expect was how much this show would give back to me. I'm beyond grateful for the friendships built, the partners gained, the incredible guests who've shared their stories, and the loyal listeners who turned every episode into a stepping stone for something bigger. You've given me more than you know... knowledge, perspective, connections, and above all, a deep sense of purpose. Together, we've changed the way the world sees blue-collar work. Now it's time for the next chapter. Introducing: EVERYTHING THEY DON'T TELL YOU - The truth about leadership, business, and becoming who you're meant to be. This isn't just a rebrand. It's a new mission. It's about digging deeper into the truths of building a business, becoming the leader you need to be, and growing into the person capable of supporting it all. Expect long-form conversations, high-profile guests, and practical insights that cut through the noise. To everyone who's been part of this journey... my team, my friends, vendors, partners, clients, and especially you, the listeners—thank you from the bottom of my heart. But we're not done.  We're going to keep building something real, together. Tune into the first episode dropping August 19th! Let's go to work .

Rich Malachy doesn't just run a family business — he's redefining what that business means. From navigating generational change to scaling a bold online presence in a traditional industry, Rich gets real about ownership, visibility, and leading from the front. This episode is all about mindset: adapting, building brand equity, and never waiting for permission.  

Leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about being generous enough to grow. This week, we sit down with Joe Davis, author of The Generous Leader, to explore what it really means to lead. Not through control, but through service, humility, and transformation. Joe shares stories from his personal journey, how his perspective on leadership has changed, and how generosity became the foundation for his growth as a person and a professional. 🔵 In this episode: – Why generous leadership isn't weakness, it's strength – The difference between confidence and arrogance – How real transformation starts with self-awareness – Why legacy has more to do with how you lead today than how you'll be remembered tomorrow 🎧 Listen, subscribe, and learn more at https://blueisthenewwhite.com

Rich Ortega is the founder of On The Rock Services, but he doesn't just run a business — he leads with intention. In this episode, Rich breaks down what it means to build a culture, set a standard, and lead with purpose in the skilled trades. From coaching his team to staying disciplined as an owner, this conversation covers what it takes to do business the right way — with accountability, hustle, and heart. If you're looking for insight on growth, leadership, or creating a rock-solid company culture, you're in the right place. 🔵 Topics Covered: – Why team culture matters more than tools – How to lead like a coach, not a boss – Building systems that reinforce accountability – The mindset that separates long-term businesses from quick wins Want the video version? - https://youtu.be/KHGYvztO5Iw

Join me in a raw and real conversation with Greg Christensen, host of CMMS Radio, as we dive into why genuine win-win situations are so elusive in business. Greg shares insights into maintaining integrity, navigating the complexities of rapid growth, and staying focused on adding real value. Whether you're leading teams, managing facilities, or scaling a business, Greg's perspectives on accountability, intentionality, and authenticity provide actionable takeaways to keep your mission clear and impactful. 🔗 Listen to more: blueisthenewwhite.com/listen ✅ Subscribe for more real conversations about growth, business, and the blue-collar world.

Luke Lunkenheimer is living proof that you can rewrite your story. In this episode of Blue Is The New White, he opens up about battling addiction, facing prison, and finding salvation in sales not just as a career, but as a purpose. This one hits hard. Luke doesn't sugarcoat the pain, the hustle, or the pressure. But he shows how discipline, mindset, and real human connection can turn everything around. 🎯 If you're in the trades, in leadership, or fighting your own uphill battle, you need this. 🔵 Subscribe for more real conversations from the front lines  #blueisthenewwhite #addictionrecovery #salesleadership #tradesmindset #secondchances #mentalhealth #entrepreneurship

This week, I sat down with Shell Mendelson, an ADHD Career Coach with a powerful story and even stronger mission. We talked about what it's like to discover your neurodivergence later in life, how that changes everything, and why blue-collar careers could be the ideal match for people with ADHD. Shell's message is clear: ADHD doesn't hold you back... misunderstanding ADHD does. This episode is for anyone who's felt "too different" for the box they were told to fit in.

In this episode of Blue Is The New White, Ryan Englin returns with a powerful reminder: leadership isn't about control, it's about connection. We talk about what it really means to care for your team, why emotional intelligence is the future of skilled trades leadership, and how to build a business people actually want to work for. Whether you're struggling to hire, retain, or inspire your people, this episode is your wake-up call.

In this episode of Blue Is The New White, Josh Zolin sits down with Ken Rusk, entrepreneur and author of Blue Collar Cash, to unpack the realities of building a fulfilling and financially free life through the trades. Ken talks about hiring thousands of employees, discovering what motivates people, and how vision (not education) is the real key to success. From teaching others how to find their lane to helping blue collar workers unlock their potential, this episode is a must for anyone chasing purpose and profit outside the traditional system. Tune in for practical wisdom, bold mindset shifts, and a blueprint for building a life you're excited to wake up to.

Blue Is The New White #191.1 This week's Blue Is The New White recap shines a spotlight on Dave Consulo, Profit Coach and Trainer at BDR. In this clip, Dave breaks down the real power behind high-performing teams in the trades: mindset. It's not just about tools, tasks, or time. It's about the way your people think, feel, and grow inside your business. Don't miss this reminder that your business will only grow as much as your people do.

Blue Is The New White #191 This week on Blue Is The New White, I welcome Dave Consulo. Profit Coach, Trainer, and former technician who brings a unique perspective to business growth in the trades. With years in the field and now in front of teams across the country, Dave explains how true profitability begins with understanding, coaching, and clear communication. If you're a leader in the skilled trades looking to inspire, lead, and grow your business, this conversation is for you.

Blue Is The New White Podcast: Episode #190.1 The skilled trades industry is desperate for workers, yet women remain underrepresented. Why? Amy O'Grady, Executive Director of Women in HVACR, joined Blue Is The New White to discuss:  ✅ The biggest barriers keeping women from the trades ✅ How company culture plays a bigger role than you think ✅ Why recruitment strategies need to change ✅ Real-world success stories of women thriving in the trades

Blue Is The New White #190 The skilled trades are changing, and women are playing a crucial role in that evolution. On this episode of Blue Is The New White, Amy O'Grady, Executive Director of Women in HVACR, shares how businesses can challenge outdated hiring practices, create a more inclusive culture, and attract the best talent—regardless of gender. We discuss: ✅ Why culture is the #1 factor affecting hiring and retention ✅ How businesses can set women up for success in skilled trades ✅ The power of mentorship in shaping the future of the industry If you're struggling to find the right people for your company, this conversation is a must-listen.

Blue Is The New White #189.1 The best leaders don't just manage, they coach. In this episode recap, we revisit an incredible conversation with Jason E. Brooks, a hospitality profitability expert who understands the real secret to leadership: creating a culture of ownership. Jason shares how shifting from a management mindset to a coaching mindset changes everything. When leaders empower their teams, businesses run smoother, people perform better, and everyone wins. Tune in for key takeaways on: ✅ The 3 leadership mindsets: Managing, Leading, and Coaching ✅ Why delegation isn't about control, it's about trust ✅ The #1 shift leaders need to make for long-term success 🎧 Listen now and discover how to transform the way you lead! #Leadership #BusinessSuccess #CoachingCulture #BlueCollarLeadership #GrowthMindset #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeEngagement #Mentorship #Entrepreneurship #Success

Blue Is The New White #189 🔥 Great leaders aren't just managers. They're COACHES. In this episode of Blue Is The New White, Jason E. Brooks reveals why business owners must embrace coaching as their ultimate leadership tool. Most owners juggle three mindsets daily: ✔ Managing (tasks and operations) ✔ Leading (vision and strategy) ✔ Coaching (empowering and developing people) Jason breaks down why coaching is the key to unlocking real business growth, how to build buy-in with your team, and why hiring for attitude over skill can change everything. If you want a business that runs without you, you need a team that believes in the mission. And that starts with coaching.

Blue Is The New White #188.1 Kurt Stenberg's entrepreneurial journey is built on ideas—but not just any ideas. The kind that spark innovation, drive growth, and build businesses.   If you've ever felt stuck, uninspired, or unsure of how to turn ideas into action—this episode is for you.   🎧 Full episode is available now wherever you get your podcasts

Blue Is The New White #188 The hardest lesson every entrepreneur must learn? Letting go of control. This week on Blue Is The New White, Kurt Stenberg (Cochrane Tree Care, Atmos Tree, Arborist Blueprint Podcast) shares what it really takes to grow a business while keeping your team engaged and your customers loyal. 📌 What You'll Learn: How to build a team that believes in your vision Why emotional connection drives business success The real role of leadership in scaling a company How to navigate adversity and pivot when needed If you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or skilled trades professional, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that will change the way you lead. 🎧 Listen now & start scaling smarter! #BusinessLeadership #Entrepreneurship #SkilledTrades #GrowthMindset #KurtStenberg #TreeCare #ArboristBlueprint

Blue Is The New White #187.1 🛎️ Recap of my conversation with Joel Worthington, CFE from last weeks podcast I highly suggest giving this episode a listen. This is just a sample of the insight and wisdom Joel has to bring to the table 👇 ✔ The power of full ownership – If you're blaming the economy, the industry, or your team—you're already losing. ✔ Leaders build trust before they build systems – People follow people, not processes. ✔ Culture isn't built from the top—it's built from buy-in – A title doesn't make you a leader. Your team's belief in you does. If you missed the episode, you can get it anywhere you get your podcasts 🎧 #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessSuccess #JoelWorthington #BlueIsTheNewWhite

Blue Is The New White #187 Leadership isn't about titles or power—it's about earning trust, driving results, and taking responsibility. This week, I sit down with Joel Worthington, President of Mr. Electric   ⚡ In The Episode:  🔵 Why leadership = influence + achievement 🔵 The one mindset shift that separates great leaders from bad ones 🔵 Why trust & competency matter more than authority 🔵 The power of full ownership—no excuses, no blame If you run a business, lead a team, or just want to level up your leadership skills, this episode is packed with actionable insights.   📢 Watch now & don't forget to subscribe!

Blue Is The New White Podcast: Episode #186.1 This week, we recap our latest episode with Eddie Hightower of Caliber Collision on Blue Is The New White. 🚀 Key Takeaways: 🔵 Why skilled trades offer unmatched career freedom and security. 🔵 How apprenticeships transform lives and create opportunities.  🔵 The importance of connecting people and ideas for lasting impact. The trades are more essential now than ever 📢 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on weekly recaps and full episodes #SkilledTrades #CareerFreedom #Apprenticeships #Leadership #BlueIsTheNewWhite

Blue Is The New White #186 Imagine a career that offers freedom, security, and skills no one can ever take away. That's the power of the skilled trades 🔧. The irony is that you ask most people why they push their kids or students into a college degree, they say it's for job security 🤔 In the latest episode of Blue Is The New White, Eddie Hightower, of Caliber Collision, shares his insights into why skilled trades are the key to unlocking true professional freedom. Eddie dives into: 🔵 The unmatched job security and flexibility that comes with a skilled trade. 🔵 Why apprenticeships are more than a paycheck—they're a chance to discover your passion without the debt. 🔵 How connecting people, ideas, and opportunities can transform careers and businesses. With Caliber Collision's groundbreaking apprenticeship program, Eddie highlights how they've changed the lives of nearly 2,000 individuals—and why the skilled trades are more important now than ever before. 🎥 Don't miss the full episode, available everywhere you get your podcasts. #SkilledTrades #BlueIsTheNewWhite #Apprenticeships #Leadership #CareerGrowth

Blue Is The New White #185.1   What's the key to a thriving business? For Rick Miller, it's all about people, culture, and finding joy in the process. In this episode of Blue Is The New White, Rick Miller, founder and CEO of RLM Hospitality, shares his unique approach to: Building strong teams and identifying top talent. Creating a culture where laughter, authenticity, and collaboration thrive. Balancing operational efficiency with enjoying the journey of entrepreneurship.   Rick's perspective as a restaurant management consultant offers valuable insights for leaders across industries, especially those serving the hospitality and skilled trades sectors. 📌 Watch the full episode to learn: How to create cultural alignment in hiring. Why humor and joy are essential for building lasting teams. The importance of focusing on people to grow your business sustainably.  🎥 Don't miss this inspiring conversation packed with actionable advice for leaders and business owners.

Blue Is The New White #185 Building a successful business isn't just about revenue—it's about people, culture, and operational efficiency. In this episode of Blue Is The New White, Rick Miller, founder of RLM Hospitality, shares his journey and the lessons he's learned about: Attracting and retaining top talent in challenging markets. Creating a culture of alignment, respect, and growth within your organization. Balancing entrepreneurial passion with the structure needed for sustainable growth. Rick's unique background in hospitality and management brings a refreshing perspective to leadership in the skilled trades. Topics Covered: Why culture is the foundation of every successful team. The importance of transparent leadership and communication. Strategies for operational efficiency without sacrificing team morale. Balancing passion with long-term business sustainability. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with actionable advice for business owners and leaders looking to scale their teams and operations. 📌 Subscribe for more conversations that challenge, inspire, and elevate the trades.

🎉 Closing out the year with this recap on my latest episode with Idan Shpizear of 911 Restoration - The Fresh Start Company. Awareness isn't just about observing the world around you—it's about understanding your thoughts, your emotions, and the patterns that keep you stuck. Idan shared how awareness acts as the catalyst for personal freedom and growth, helping us break free from reactive cycles and step into intentional living. No more autopilot, start designing a more intentional life. Take some time during the holiday's and listen to this one!   #MindsetShift #Awareness #Leadership #PersonalDevelopment #BlueIsTheNewWhite #Entrepreneurship

Blue Is The New White #184   Are life's challenges happening to you or for you? Idan Shpizear, founder of 911 Restoration, believes the answer lies in your perspective. In this episode of Blue Is The New White, Idan shares how awareness and mindset shifts can transform how we experience life. By understanding that our external circumstances reflect our inner state, we can find freedom and clarity even in the toughest situations. Topics Covered: The power of awareness in transforming your life How mindset shifts create freedom Seeing challenges as opportunities for growth Turning reactive patterns into intentional responses Subscribe for more insights on leadership, personal growth, and mindset in the skilled trades!

Blue Is The New White #183.1 In the latest episode of Blue Is The New White, Ben Poole, founder of HVAC Tactical, reveals his superpower: motivating, encouraging, and lifting others up. For Ben, building people up isn't just a skill—it's a calling that brings him a deep sense of fulfillment and peace. Ben shares how focusing on others' success can create a ripple effect of positivity and how serving others is at the core of true leadership. This conversation explores the importance of connection, encouragement, and inspiration in the skilled trades and beyond. Whether you're a leader in the skilled trades or looking for inspiration, this episode offers actionable insights on how to create a lasting impact.

Blue Is The New White #183 In this episode of Blue Is The New White, Ben Poole, founder of HVAC Tactical, shares his mission to elevate the skilled trades by fostering a mindset of mastery, respect, and value. Ben dives into how small mindset shifts can create ripple effects that uplift individuals, businesses, and the entire industry. Through his personal story and experiences, Ben explains how embracing personal growth, motivating others, and striving for excellence can change lives and reshape perceptions of the trades. He challenges trades professionals to believe in themselves, become masters of their craft, and inspire the next generation to do the same. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the trades, this episode is packed with actionable insights on how to build a better future for the skilled trades. Key Topics Discussed: Elevating the skilled trades through mindset and mastery The power of motivation and influence in the industry Respecting and valuing skilled trades professionals Creating ripple effects of positive change Building a better future for the trades community

Blue Is The New White #182.1 Your business thrives because of your A-players—the technicians and team members who are indispensable to your success. In this episode of Blue Is The New White, Chris Buttenham, founder of Reins, shares strategies to retain these top performers and create long-term loyalty. Learn how businesses in the skilled trades and home service industries can align incentives, improve retention, and build a stronger team culture. From understanding the unique value of your A-players to implementing practical retention strategies, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Topics Covered: The importance of A-players in your business Retention strategies for skilled trades and home service businesses How to align team incentives with business goals Building a culture that attracts and retains top talent Subscribe for more insights on leadership, business growth, and the future of the skilled trades