The WorkReady with Dr. Kevin Rindal

Your body is your 401k. The small deposits you make every day determine what you have at the end of your career.Sarah Miranda leads workforce health at Quanta Services with a background from EXOS, one of the premier performance organizations in the world. She and Kevin Rindal break down the complete blueprint for field worker injury prevention and workforce athlete recovery, from morning routines and pre-shift stretch and flex to the heat roll sleep system, hydration for outdoor workers, creatine, and the peer-to-peer mental health program Quanta is piloting across the industry.Whether you are in your first 18 months or 30 years in and starting to feel it, this episode gives you a system to perform better, recover faster, and last longer in the trade.Subscribe to the WorkReady Podcast and join the WorkReady Community.CONNECT➡ Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady Hub: https://www.kevinrindal.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workready_Kevin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586160030451 Subscribe to Field Notes: https://www.kevinrindal.com/connect ➡ Sarah MirandaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-miranda-m-s-nasm-shrm-cp-a8300089/ RESOURCESMATES in Construction Program: https://matesinconstruction.orgMyFitnessPal App: https://www.myfitnesspal.com🎉 SPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness Platform: http://vimocity.comWorkReady Community (FREE for field pros)https://www.vimocity.com/workready-community 🔧 Field Athlete Discounts & ToolsThese are products we trust and use to help you perform, recover, and stay ready for the job.Function Health: Get advanced lab testing and take control of your health.👉 https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=KRINDAL10&_saasquatch=KRINDAL10 Use code: KRINDAL10Thorne (Supplements): High-quality supplements to support performance and recovery. 👉 https://www.thorne.com/u/PR889833 AiresTech (EMF Protection): Support recovery and reduce exposure in high-tech environments👉 https://airestech.com/workready WHOOP (Recovery & Sleep Tracking): Track strain, recovery, and sleep so you can perform at your best👉 https://join.whoop.com/us/en/98024C53/ Saatva (Mattress & Pillows): 15% discount. Recovery starts with sleep. 👉 https://partners.saatva.com/ypdg8ii1cdh8 PHP Prescription (Hydration Systems): Better water, better recovery, better performance.👉 https://www.phprescription.com/?ref=workready Use code: workready5Note: 5% discount. Coupon code does NOT apply to Aquapellis, Vital Impact Shower Systems, or Genesis Tubs.Greens First (Greens Powder): 15% discount on science-backed daily nutrition that supports energy, recovery, and overall wellness. 👉⁠ https://greensfirst.com/discount/WorkReady Use code: WorkReadyCHAPTERS00:00 Intro02:45 Daily Recovery Routines06:31 Getting Crew Buy In09:51 Leading Warmups Well12:40 Bigger Why Beyond Work15:02 Consistent Stretch Flex17:37 Hydration Heat Strategy21:40 Energy Drinks Reality25:12 Protein Meals On Site28:09 Track Macros Simply30:11 End Of Day Recovery32:53 Supplements Creatine Basics35:54 Mental Health MATES Program42:31 Career Advice Any Age

Most workers have been taught more about how to take care of their tools than their own body. Yet you only get one body. Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Dr. Greg Doerr, a FAKTR chiropractor and sports medicine specialist with 25 years keeping elite athletes performing at the highest level. Now he is bringing that same science to the workforce athlete dealing with body pain after every shift and the daily question of working through pain vs ignoring a real injury.You will learn:Working through pain vs ignoring injury and how to know the differencePre-shift warmup routine for trades that actually prepares your bodyWhy static stretching before a shift increases injury riskFascia explained simply and why a stiff knee leads to back painFoam roller vs massage gun for muscle recovery and how to use bothWhy soft tissue recovery has to happen immediately after your shiftWhen to see a chiropractor for a work injuryCONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady Hub: https://www.kevinrindal.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workready_Kevin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586160030451 Subscribe to Field Notes: https://www.kevinrindal.com/connect Connect with Dr. Greg DoerrLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-doerr-33b673/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bergen_chiropractic/ RESOURCES FAKTR: https://faktr-store.comFunctional Soft Tissue (FST): https://functionalsofttissue.comBergen Chiropractic: https://bergenchiropractic.com🎉 SPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness Platform: http://vimocity.com WorkReady Community (FREE for field pros) https://www.vimocity.com/workready-community CHAPTERS00:00 Intro01:00 Are Field Workers Athletes?01:30 Adaptive Pain vs Injury: Know the Difference04:30 Why Ignoring Pain Costs You Your Career09:30 Best Pre-Shift Exercise for the Whole Body11:30 Dynamic vs Static Stretching: What to Do Before Work13:30 Fascia and the Kinetic Chain Explained22:00 Soft Tissue Mobilization: What Actually Works31:30 Why Recovery Must Happen Right After Your Shift

The nutrition advice built for athletes playing four quarters was never built for someone working a 10 to 12 hour shift with no halftime and no trainer on the sideline. And for most field workers, that gap between how they actually fuel and how they need to fuel to perform is costing them more than they realize. Kevin Guillen from Wilderness Athlete has spent years closing that gap for hunters, linemen, and anyone pushing their body in demanding conditions with no off season and no reset button. In this episode of the WorkReady Podcast, he breaks down what nutrition for physical labor actually demands, how to fuel long work shifts without crashing, and the simple daily decisions that separate people who last in the trades from people who burn out.What You'll LearnWhy am I so tired after work every day and what to do about itWhy nutrition for physical labor is different from general fitness adviceThe protein mistake most field workers make every single morningWhat to eat before a long shift at work to maintain energy through the full dayWhat electrolytes for outdoor workers actually need beyond what Gatorade providesHow creatine for working athletes improves strength, recovery, and focus on the jobWhy energy drinks are making fatigue worse over time, not betterSubscribe to the WorkReady Podcast and join the WorkReady Community.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady Hub: https://www.kevinrindal.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workready_Kevin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586160030451 Subscribe to Field Notes: https://www.kevinrindal.com/connect Connect with Kevin GuillenEmail: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildathlete/ Website: https://www.wildernessathlete.com 🎉 SPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness Platform: http://vimocity.com WorkReady Community (FREE for field pros) https://www.vimocity.com/workready-community 🔧 Field Athlete Discounts & ToolsThese are products we trust and use to help you perform, recover, and stay ready for the job.Function Health: Get advanced lab testing and take control of your health.👉 https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=KRINDAL10&_saasquatch=KRINDAL10Use code: KRINDAL10Thorne (Supplements): High-quality supplements to support performance and recovery. 👉 https://www.thorne.com/u/PR889833AiresTech (EMF Protection): Support recovery and reduce exposure in high-tech environments👉 https://airestech.com/workreadyWHOOP (Recovery & Sleep Tracking): Track strain, recovery, and sleep so you can perform at your best👉 https://join.whoop.com/us/en/98024C53/Saatva (Mattress & Pillows): 15% discount. Recovery starts with sleep. 👉 https://partners.saatva.com/ypdg8ii1cdh8PHP Prescription (Hydration Systems): Better water, better recovery, better performance.👉 https://www.phprescription.com/?ref=workreadyUse code: workready5Note: 5% discount. Coupon code does NOT apply to Aquapellis, Vital Impact Shower Systems, or Genesis Tubs.Greens First (Greens Powder): 15% discount on science-backed daily nutrition that supports energy, recovery, and overall wellness.👉⁠ https://greensfirst.com/discount/WorkReady Use code: WorkReadyCHAPTERS00:00  Welcome to WorkReady03:46  Wilderness Athlete05:47  Why Gatorade Is Not Enough for Field Workers09:19  Creatine for Working Athletes Explained16:16  How Wilderness Athlete Started Serving Linemen and Field Workers20:11 The Most Common Fueling Mistakes on the Job27:52  Energy Drinks, Caffeine, and the Cycle That Drains You32:06  Myth Busting: Calories, Hunger, and Energy Drinks36:26  Early Warning Signs You or Your Crew Is Running on Empty42:02  3 Takeaways for the Workforce Athlete

You've been told to drink more water. But if you're still dragging through shifts, foggy by midday, or cramping up in the field, volume isn't the problem. Quality is.Leo Szymborski spent 40 years in the water filtration business, starting out as a pipefitter cleaning up toxic water from chemical plants. At 40 years old, athletic his whole life, he nearly died from AFib tachycardia. What he discovered in the aftermath- the connection between minerals, alkaline water, hydrogen water, and how the body actually functions-got him off six heart medications and back to peak physical condition at 41.In this episode, Kevin and Leo break down the difference between clean water and healthy water for physical performance, why dehydration and fatigue hit field workers before they ever feel thirsty, what magnesium deficiency symptoms actually look like on the job, and how to hydrate properly on a job site even with limited options.Practical. Field-tested. Built for construction workers, linemen, and industrial athletes who use their body for a living. Subscribe and join the WorkReady Community.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady Hub: https://www.kevinrindal.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workready_Kevin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586160030451 Subscribe to Field Notes: https://www.kevinrindal.com/connect Connect with Leo SyzmborskiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-szymborski-iii-95529881/  Email: [email protected] RESOURCESWebsite: https://www.phprescription.com/?ref=workready Book: H2O Health to Overcome — https://amzn.to/4tBaTJG🎉 SPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness Platform: http://vimocity.com WorkReady Community (FREE for field pros)https://www.vimocity.com/workready-community 🔧 Field Athlete Discounts & ToolsThese are products we trust and use to help you perform, recover, and stay ready for the job.Function Health: Get advanced lab testing and take control of your health.👉 https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=KRINDAL10&_saasquatch=KRINDAL10Use code: KRINDAL10Thorne (Supplements): High-quality supplements to support performance and recovery. 👉 https://www.thorne.com/u/PR889833AiresTech (EMF Protection): Support recovery and reduce exposure in high-tech environments👉 https://airestech.com/workreadyWHOOP (Recovery & Sleep Tracking): Track strain, recovery, and sleep so you can perform at your best👉 https://join.whoop.com/us/en/98024C53/Saatva (Mattress & Pillows): 15% discount. Recovery starts with sleep. 👉 https://partners.saatva.com/ypdg8ii1cdh8PHP Prescription (Hydration Systems): Better water, better recovery, better performance.👉 https://www.phprescription.com/?ref=workreadyUse code: workready5Note: 5% discount. Coupon code does NOT apply to Aquapellis, Vital Impact Shower Systems, or Genesis Tubs.Greens First (Greens Powder): 15% discount on science-backed daily nutrition that supports energy, recovery, and overall wellness.👉⁠ https://greensfirst.com/discount/WorkReady Use code: WorkReadyCHAPTERS00:00 Why You're Still Tired After Drinking Water03:29 AFib at 40: The Health Crisis That Changed Everything08:51 The Electrical System in Your Body and pH Explained17:32 1% Dehydration, 10% Less Energy on the Job26:32 Myth: Drinking Enough Water Means You're Hydrated28:30 Why Dehydration Is a Safety Risk on the Job36:00 How to Pick the Best Bottled Water at a Gas Station38:56 3 Takeaways for the Workforce Athlete

You've been trained to spot physical hazards like falls, equipment failures, and electrical risk. But some of the most dangerous risks on a jobsite don’t show up on a checklist. Mental health, trauma, and burnout.In this episode, Kevin sits down with Mark Veldkamp, a clinician specializing in threat assessment and workforce safety, to talk about what the warning signs actually look like when someone on your crew is struggling, and what to do about it before it becomes a crisis.They cover how to tell the difference between a hard week and a real mental health issue, how to start the conversation without making it awkward, and what psychological safety actually looks like on a crew. They also get into what happens after a serious incident, how trauma spreads across a team, and why push-through culture can quietly become a safety risk.This is a practical conversation for people leading crews in real-world conditions who want everyone going home in one piece. Subscribe to the WorkReady Podcast and join the WorkReady Community to take these lessons into the field.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady Hub: https://www.kevinrindal.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workready_Kevin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586160030451 Subscribe to Field Notes: https://www.kevinrindal.com/connect Connect with Mark VeldampLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-veldkamp/ Website: https://www.markveldkamp.comEmail: [email protected]🎉 SPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness Platform: http://vimocity.com WorkReady Community (FREE for field pros) https://www.vimocity.com/workready-community 🔧 Field Athlete Discounts & ToolsThese are products we trust and use to help you perform, recover, and stay ready for the job.Function Health: Get advanced lab testing and take control of your health.👉 https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=KRINDAL10&_saasquatch=KRINDAL10Use code: KRINDAL10Thorne (Supplements): High-quality supplements to support performance and recovery. 👉 https://www.thorne.com/u/PR889833AiresTech (EMF Protection): Support recovery and reduce exposure in high-tech environments👉 https://airestech.com/workreadyWHOOP (Recovery & Sleep Tracking): Track strain, recovery, and sleep so you can perform at your best👉 https://join.whoop.com/us/en/98024C53/Saatva (Mattress & Pillows): 15% discount. Recovery starts with sleep. 👉 https://partners.saatva.com/ypdg8ii1cdh8PHP Prescription (Hydration Systems): Better water, better recovery, better performance.👉 https://www.phprescription.com/?ref=workreadyUse code: workready5Note: 5% discount. Coupon code does NOT apply to Aquapellis, Vital Impact Shower Systems, or Genesis Tubs.Greens First (Greens Powder): 15% discount on science-backed daily nutrition that supports energy, recovery, and overall wellness.👉⁠ https://greensfirst.com/discount/WorkReady Use code: WorkReadyCHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady07:31 Reading Your Crew on the Job12:28 After a Fatality or Serious Incident18:55 Why Every Team Needs a Mental Health Plan22:00 What Trauma Does to the Body27:06 Recovery Tools That Actually Help30:30 Myth: Bringing It Up Makes It Worse35:53 Building Trust Without Making It Awkward38:33 Where Leaders Get It Wrong41:34 Three Takeaways

Long hours. High stress. And a body that doesn’t recover like it used to. Most workers don’t break down overnight. It builds when stress has nowhere to go, and that’s when sleep suffers, energy drops, and your body starts falling behind.In this episode of the WorkReady Podcast, Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Rich Ganley, founder of Recharge Rooms, to break down what’s actually happening inside the body and how to fix it using recovery tools trusted in elite sports.For decades, tools like cold exposure, sauna, red light therapy, and nervous system resets have helped athletes recover and perform at a high level. Now, they’re being brought to the people who need them most, from linemen and firefighters to anyone in high-demand jobs.In this conversation, you’ll learn: How stress impacts your body and nervous systemSimple recovery tactics you can start using right awayWhy stacking recovery tools creates a bigger impactHow recovery affects safety, performance, and career longevityWhat a 30-minute routine can actually do for youTune in to see how elite athletes recover and how workers can too.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady Hub: https://www.kevinrindal.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workready_Kevin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586160030451 Subscribe to Field Notes: https://www.kevinrindal.com/connect Connect with Rich GanleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-ganley-b5b9622b7/ Recharge Room: https://rechargeroom.io Positive Impact Alliance: Connect via rechargeroom.io 🎉 SPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness Platform: http://vimocity.com WorkReady Community (FREE for field pros)https://www.vimocity.com/workready-community 🔧 Field Athlete Discounts & ToolsThese are products we trust and use to help you perform, recover, and stay ready for the job.Function Health: Get advanced lab testing and take control of your health.👉 https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=KRINDAL10&_saasquatch=KRINDAL10Use code: KRINDAL10Thorne (Supplements): High-quality supplements to support performance and recovery. 👉 https://www.thorne.com/u/PR889833AiresTech (EMF Protection): Support recovery and reduce exposure in high-tech environments👉 https://airestech.com/workreadyWHOOP (Recovery & Sleep Tracking): Track strain, recovery, and sleep so you can perform at your best👉 https://join.whoop.com/us/en/98024C53/Saatva (Mattress & Pillows): 15% discount. Recovery starts with sleep. 👉 https://partners.saatva.com/ypdg8ii1cdh8PHP Prescription (Hydration Systems): Better water, better recovery, better performance.👉 https://www.phprescription.com/?ref=workreadyUse code: workready5Note: 5% discount. Coupon code does NOT apply to Aquapellis, Vital Impact Shower Systems, or Genesis Tubs.Greens First (Greens Powder): 15% discount on science-backed daily nutrition that supports energy, recovery, and overall wellness.👉⁠ https://greensfirst.com/discount/WorkReady Use code: WorkReadyCHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady01:30 What chronic stress is doing to your body02:22 Signs your nervous system is overloaded03:30 Why workers don’t recover like athletes07:00 The hidden health risks in frontline jobs09:03 Proven results: better sleep, less pain, lower stress14:00 The 30 min recovery system explained23:00 How to reset your nervous system fast (vagus nerve)27:30 Cold plunge vs sauna: what actually works40:00 Is recovery a luxury or a necessity?47:30 The real reason recovery impacts your career

Why do some workers get promoted… while others stay stuck?If you work in the trades, you’ve seen it. Two people with the same skill and experience, different outcomes.In this episode of the WorkReady Podcast, Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Jon Harrison, former Caterpillar executive and founder of the VIP Way, to break down what actually gets you promoted in the trades.There are 7 behaviors that separate the people who get noticed, developed, and promoted from the ones who stay stuck. Most workers are missing at least one.In this conversation, you’ll learn: The 7 trairs that actually get you promoted Why skilled workers get overlookedHow to build a reputation your crew trusts The one question that can change your trajectoryBy the end, you’ll know exactly what to fix and where to start.This is about doing the small things right, every day, so your career keeps moving forward.No fluff. Just what works on the jobsite.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady Hub: https://www.kevinrindal.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workready_Kevin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586160030451 Subscribe to Field Notes: https://www.kevinrindal.com/connect Connect with Jon HarrisonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-harrison-1031a637/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jonharrisonvip RESOURCESThe VIP Way: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/our-processThe 9 Expectations of a VIP Way Leader/Employee: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/vip-trainingUpcoming Training Events: https://www.jonharrisonvip.com/eventsThe Jon Harrison Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cwdXPDgkPeqfw5LVWiXeE 🎉 SPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness Platform: http://vimocity.com WorkReady Community (FREE for field pros) https://www.vimocity.com/workready-community 🔧 Field Athlete Discounts & ToolsThese are products we trust and use to help you perform, recover, and stay ready for the job.Function Health: Get advanced lab testing and take control of your health. 👉 https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=KRINDAL10&_saasquatch=KRINDAL10 (Use code: KRINDAL10)Thorne (Supplements): High-quality supplements to support performance and recovery. 👉 https://www.thorne.com/u/PR889833AiresTech (EMF Protection): Support recovery and reduce exposure in high-tech environments👉 https://airestech.com/workreadyWHOOP (Recovery & Sleep Tracking): Track strain, recovery, and sleep so you can perform at your best. 👉 https://join.whoop.com/us/en/98024C53/Saatva (Mattress & Pillows): 15% Discount. Recovery starts with sleep. 👉 https://partners.saatva.com/ypdg8ii1cdh8PHP Prescription (Hydration Systems): Better water, better recovery, better performance. 👉 https://www.phprescription.com/?ref=workready Use code: workready5 Note: 5% Discount. Code does not apply to Aquapellis, Vital Impact Shower Systems, or Genesis Tubs.Greens First (Greens Powder): 15% discount on science-backed daily nutrition that supports energy, recovery, and overall wellness. 👉⁠ https://greensfirst.com/discount/WorkReady Use code: WorkReadyCHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady01:00 Why Workers Become Disengaged05:00 The VIP Way Explained (Values, Information, Passion)08:30 What Makes a “Star Employee”13:00 #1 Resilience: Handling Pressure & Adversity19:00 #2 Civility: Why Respect Drives Performance26:00 #3 Gratitude: The Mindset That Changes Teams33:00 #4 Flexibility: The Trait That Gets You Promoted42:00 #5–7 Discernment, Self-Awareness & Being Approachable58:30 Why Great Workers Don’t Always Become Great Leaders01:05:00 What Separates Who Gets Promoted01:07:00 The Question That Will Set You Apart01:09:00 3 Things Every Worker Should Remember

What you put in your body determines how you perform, recover, and how long you last. In this episode, Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Dr. Rick Kreider, one of the world’s leading experts in sports nutrition and creatine. Together, they break down how field athletes can fuel their work, recover faster, and stay sharp in demanding environments.From hydration to recovery, this episode turns elite performance science into real-world tools for the jobsite. Plus, the truth about creatine: what it actually does, why it’s so studied, and how it impacts not just strength, but brain function, fatigue, and long-term health. If your job demands physical output, resilience, and focus, this episode will change how you think about nutrition.What you’ll learn:How to fuel your body for long, demanding workdaysWhy hydration and electrolytes directly impact safety and performanceSimple recovery strategies that reduce soreness and improve next-day outputThe science behind creatine for energy, cognition, and longevityHow fatigue, alcohol, and nicotine impact recovery and performanceWhy treating your body like an athlete extends your careerCONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady Hub: https://www.kevinrindal.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinrindal/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/workready_Kevin Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61586160030451 Subscribe to Field Notes: https://www.kevinrindal.com/connect Connect with Dr. Rick KreiderLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rick-kreider-83653318/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rbkreider/ RESOURCESWorkReady Episode ⁠⁠Exclusive Clip⁠⁠: https://tinyurl.com/k4srmsvkSPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness Platform: http://vimocity.com WorkReady Community (FREE for field pros) https://www.vimocity.com/workready-community CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady03:36 Why Most Workers Are Underfueled (And Don’t Know It)08:54 Safety and Productivity Benefits17:07 Post Work Recovery Foods20:51 Why Cheap Food Is Breaking Your Body Down24:24 Why Alcohol and Smoking Is Slowing Your Recovery27:59 Exercise for Longevity Basics30:04 Creatine Basics Explained36:41 Food Sources And Supplementing38:26 Choosing Quality Creatine49:17 Concussions And Brain Protection52:49 What 24 Hours Without Sleep Does to Your Brain

Most people in the trades think leadership begins when someone hands you the title. Josh Nieves learned the opposite.He started in construction at 18, asking questions others didn’t ask, carrying tools nobody told him to carry, and focusing on the small habits that build trust on a crew. Over time, those habits compounded into leadership roles across complex, high-risk construction environments and a career focused on developing the workforce.His philosophy is simple: “You can lead right where you are.”In this episode of the WorkReady Podcast, Josh explains what separates the people who advance in the trades from those who stagnate, and what frontline workers can start doing on their very next shift to build trust, influence, and leadership. Kevin and Josh also discuss the industry’s mentorship gap, the growing workforce shortage, and why companies must start thinking of workers as industrial athletes if they want careers in the field to last.Tune in to hear how safety, performance, and workforce development are all connected in the trades.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady HubLinkedInInstagramFacebookSubscribe to Field NotesConnect with Josh NievesLinkedInInstagramRESOURCESWorkReady Episode ⁠Exclusive Clip⁠SPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness PlatformWorkReady Community (FREE for field pros)CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady05:21 The Apprentice Playbook: Ask Questions and Learn11:09 How Small Habits Turn Into Leadership16:04 Why the Trades Are a Powerful Career Path19:01 Leadership Mindset vs. Skills Gap24:29 Building Trust and Retaining Great Crews28:50 Mental Health and Real Jobsite Conversations39:25 The Industrial Athlete Mindset53:17 Moving Beyond Compliance to Real Workforce Development

Your brain is your most important safety tool. In this episode, Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with developmental molecular biologist and bestselling author Dr. John Medina, author of Brain Rules, to explain the brain science behind the best crews.Field athletes do not fail because of equipment. They struggle when fatigue, distraction, and chronic pressure change how the brain makes decisions. In this conversation, you’ll learn how stress affects focus, why multitasking increases mistakes, why sleep matters more than most people realize, and how movement strengthens your ability to perform under pressure.This is neuroscience translated for the field.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady HubLinkedIn Instagram FacebookSubscribe to Field NotesConnect with Dr. John MedinaLinkedInRESOURCESBrain Rules WorkReady Episode Exclusive ClipSPONSORSVimocity Workforce Readiness Platform WorkReady Community (FREE for field pros)

Is your workwear actually protecting you, or creating hidden risk?What you wear on the job affects more than comfort. It impacts focus, thermoregulation, compliance, and long term durability in the field.In this episode, Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Simon Levin, a 30 year performance apparel expert who has helped develop some of the most technically advanced FR and AR garments in the world.They break down why what you wear under your PPE matters just as much as the outer layer. You will learn the difference between inherent and treated FR fabrics, why polyester can melt in an arc flash, and how moisture against your skin can increase burn severity. They also explain why heavier gear is not automatically safer, and how proper layering helps you manage heat and cold.Stay durable. Stay focused. Stay built to last.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal• WorkReady Hub• LinkedIn• Instagram• Facebook• Subscribe to Field NotesConnect with Simon Levin• LinkedIn RESOURCES• WorkReady Episode Exclusive Clip• Dragonwear• Dragonwear Instagram🎉 SPONSORS• Vimocity Workforce Readiness Platform• WorkReady Community (FREE for field pros)CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady08:25 FR and Inherent Explained11:50 Base Layer Dangers14:10 DragonWear Pro Dry Tech18:30 Comfort Drives Safety22:37 Compliance and Education28:22 Layering for Heat and Cold33:40 Cold Weather Checklist40:29 PPE Program and ROI44:00 Future of Workwear

Felipe Carrillo started as a groundman, climbing towers and working long shifts until back injuries forced him to rethink his future. Instead of leaving the trade behind, he used what he learned in the field to build Wye Delta, a safety brand designed around what workers actually want to wear.In this episode, Felipe shares how injuries change your perspective on work and longevity, why most safety gear gets ignored on the job, the role of frontline experience in real innovation, and what it takes to build a business while still working in the field.This conversation is a reminder that your body is your livelihood, and the decisions you make today determine how long you stay in the game. Subscribe to the WorkReady Podcast and join the WorkReady Community to take these lessons from conversation to application.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady HubLinkedInInstagramFacebookSubscribe to Field NotesConnect with Felipe CarrilloLinkedInWye DeltaWye Delta InstagramRESOURCES WorkReady Episode Exclusive WorkReady Community (FREE)SPONSORSVimocity — The Workforce Readiness PlatformVimocity Community (FREE for field pros)CHAPTERS00:00 The Injury That Changed His Career02:30 The Back Pain Wake-Up Call04:10 Why Field Athletes Must Train for the Job06:10 The Problem With Safety Gear Nobody Wears10:30 Why Cheap PPE Fails in the Real World15:30 The Eye Injury That Proved It Matters23:45 How WYE Delta was Born27:50 Betting Everything on the Business32:45 Quitting the Utility Job to Go All-In38:00 Your Body Is Your Paycheck

Elite athletes don’t just train hard. They recover with purpose. In this conversation, Dr. Heather Linden shares what she’s learned from working with Olympic medalists and UFC champions, and how those same recovery strategies apply to the trades. They cover the essentials of recovery, how fatigue actually leads to injuries, why sleep and hydration matter more than most people think, and how simple daily habits can extend your career. This is human performance, built for field athletes who want to stay strong on the job and at home.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady HubLinkedInInstagramFacebookSubscribe to Field NotesConnect with Dr. Heather LindenLinkedInInstagramRESOURCESWorkReady Episode ExclusiveWorkReady Podcast YouTubeWorkReady Community⁠ (FREE)WHOOP: Wearable performance and recovery tracking. Get one month of membership FREE.⁠Thorne: NSF-certified supplements trusted by athletes at the UFC Performance Institute.⁠ SPONSORSVimocity: The Workforce Readiness PlatformVimocity Community (FREE for field pros)

The cold weather is not just uncomfortable. It's the second deadliest environmental stressor after a lack of oxygen. It changes the way your body moves, reacts, and performs.Dr. François Hammond, a human kinetics researcher and professor with 25 years studying cold exposure from Arctic communities to special forces, shares the real risks of working in the cold, including muscle strain, slips, dehydration, and impaired nerve function, and explains why even brief exposures can add up over time. He also separates fact from hype on using cold for recovery and explains how to do it safely.Learn practical strategies to protect yourself, build adaptability, read your body’s signals, and make smarter decisions when the temperature drops.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal• WorkReady Hub• LinkedIn• Instagram• Facebook• Subscribe to Field NotesConnect with Dr. François Haman• LinkedIn RESOURCES• Winter Readiness Training Resources• Cold Exposure Response Zone Chart• WorkReady Community (FREE)• WorkReady Podcast YouTube• WorkReady Episode Exclusive🎉 SPONSORS• Vimocity — The Workforce Readiness Platform• Vimocity Community (FREE for field pros)CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady04:20 The Science of Thermoregulation13:38 Practical Tips for Cold Weather Safety22:31 The Hidden Dangers of Non-Freezing Cold Injuries25:54 Lessons from Indigenous Communities on Cold Management35:30 Monitoring and Managing Cold Stress in the Field48:10 Recognizing the Danger Zones of Cold Exposure52:17 Cognitive and Physical Impacts of Cold01:03:00 Musculoskeletal Risks and Cold-Related Injuries01:08:21 Hydration and Dehydration in Cold Environments01:15:22 The Cold-Weather Readiness Triangle01:21:43 The Science of Cold Plunging

As the wife of a lineman, Anne-Marie Olivieri has lived the reality behind the statistics: accidents every few days, a fatality roughly every twelve, and families forever changed. Instead of accepting those risks as inevitable, she built a grassroots movement that now supports hundreds of thousands of linemen, spouses, and communities across the country.In this episode of the Work Ready Podcast, Anne-Marie shares how a single T-shirt design grew into Line Junk, a 600,000+ strong community, and why she founded the Line Life Foundation, a nonprofit providing immediate, no-strings-attached support to families impacted by serious injury or loss in the line trade.You’ll also hear honest conversation around:Why accidents and burnout are risingPractical advice for linewives and partners navigating long hours, storms, and missed milestonesHow stress and exhaustion at home can increase risk and why support mattersMental health, suicide prevention, and knowing when to speak upThis episode goes beyond jobsite safety. Anne-Marie shows how mental health, home resilience, and community support are just as essential for protecting careers, families, and lives in the trades.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠Subscribe to ⁠Field Notes⁠Connect with Anne-Marie Olivieri⁠[email protected]⁠ ⁠Line Junk⁠ (community + apparel + safety)⁠Line Life Foundation⁠  RESOURCES WorkReady Podcast ⁠YouTube⁠ Vimocity Workforce Readiness ⁠Platform⁠ ⁠WorkReady Community⁠ (FREE)🎉 SPONSORS⁠Vimocity⁠ — The Workforce Readiness PlatformVimocity ⁠Community⁠ (FREE for field pros)

Want to build a long, safe, and high-performing career as a lineman? Scott Politakis—veteran electric lineman with 20+ years on the front lines, host of The Polecast, and now a skills instructor—joins Dr. Kevin Rindal on this episode of the WorkReady Podcast to share what it really takes to thrive in the electrical line trade. From mastering body mechanics and staying properly hydrated to recovery strategies, thorough job briefings, and the unbreakable bond of brotherhood, Scott breaks down the lessons he’s learned over decades in the field. Drawing from his experience on the front lines and in the classroom, Scott shows what it takes to prepare the next generation of lineworkers with confidence, skill, and a foundation in safety and discipline. Tune in for practical insights that will help you work strong, stay safe, and build a long, successful career in high-risk work.THE LISTENER TAKEAWAYSmall habits early in your career have long-term consequencesPositioning and technique protect your body more than strength aloneHydration, sleep, and nutrition are safety tools—not lifestyle extrasRespect is earned through accountability and consistencyJob briefings and communication save lives when conditions changeCONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady HubLinkedInInstagramFacebookSubscribe to Field NotesConnect with Scott PolitakisFacebookPolecast Media PodcastRESOURCESWorkReady Podcast YouTubeVimocity Workforce Readiness PlatformWorkReady Community (FREE)🎉 SPONSORSVimocity — The Workforce Readiness PlatformVimocity Community (FREE for field pros)CHAPTERS00:00 Intro02:10 How Scott Got Into the Line Trade06:00 Body Position, Technique, and Saving Your Body08:54 Fear of Heights & Learning to Trust the System14:37 The Importance of Physical Fitness25:10 Sleep, Recovery, and Storm Work Reality29:45 Hydration Essentials for Linemen31:37 Maximizing Rest During Storm Work33:14 Nutrition Tips for Remote Work35:07 The Importance of Brotherhood and Safety44:56 Effective Pre-Job Briefings50:17 Transitioning from Lineman to Educator54:03 The Poll Cast and Future Goals

In the construction and energy trades, toughness is worn like armor, but silence around mental health is costing lives.In this episode, Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Katie Deal, MPH, a public health professional and leader with MATES in Construction North America, to discuss mental health and suicide prevention in the trades. Construction workers, especially men, die by suicide at nearly twice the national average, with suicide claiming five times more lives than workplace fatalities. Katie explains why traditional, top-down programs often fail and how a peer-led, industry-owned approach is changing jobsite culture. Drawing from the globally proven MATES in Construction model, this conversation explores how peer support, mental health literacy, and early intervention can build safer, stronger jobsites and save lives.CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady HubLinkedInInstagram⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with Katie DealLinkedInMATES North America Pilot WebsiteMATES In Construction LinkedInMATES in Construction Instagram RESOURCESWorkReady Podcast YouTubeVimocity Workforce Readiness PlatformWorkReady Community (FREE)CIASP Toolbox TalksCIASP Needs Analysis and Implementation Tool988 Lifeline - Help Someone ElseSuicide Prevention Resource CenterEffectiveness of the Australian MATES in Construction Suicide Prevention Program: a systematic review🎉 SPONSORSVimocity — The Workforce Readiness PlatformVimocity Community (FREE for field pros)

Zach Spicer’s life changed in an instant after a catastrophic arc flash left him with severe burns. On this episode of the WorkReady Podcast, Zach, a former Marine and journeyman lineman, shares how he turned tragedy into a mission supporting field athletes and their families. He talks about hidden risks in routine work, how complacency creeps in, the importance of PPE, and why looking out for each other saves lives. Today, Zach leads Line Brother’s Keeper, a nonprofit providing resources, financial aid, and a community to navigate the "new normal" after a life-altering injury. His mission now touches hundreds across the trades, helping them work safer and feel less alone on the road to recovery.THE LISTENER TAKEAWAYSComplacency KillsSafety is Personal Accountability: It is your job to keep yourself safe, not the foreman's or the company's. The Ripple Effect: A workplace accident doesn't just hurt the worker. It drastically impacts the spouse, children, family, and coworkers. The Financial Risk of Breaking Rules: If you willfully break safety rules, Workers' Compensation can deny your claim, leaving you personally responsible. Use Your PPE: Not wearing it correctly (e.g., rolled-up sleeves, no safety glasses) can cost a limb or life.The Importance of Mentorship: Ask questions, stay eager to learn, and let those with experience help along the way.Look Out for Mental Health: Push past the "strong man" mentality. Trauma has real effects: anxiety, panic, PTSD. Be honest and seek help.CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome to WorkReady01:41 From Marine Corps to Line Work08:27 The Reality of Being a Lineman12:54 The Day of the Accident19:39 The Aftermath and Recovery30:59 Lessons Learned and Shared36:22 Addressing Safety Concerns and Practical Steps44:57 The Financial and Legal Implications of Safety49:22 Line Brothers Keepers: Mission and Support56:24 Woodworking for Fundraising and AwarenessCONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin RindalWorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with Zack Spicer⁠LinkedIn⁠FacebookEmail: ⁠[email protected]⁠ RESOURCES WorkReady Podcast ⁠YouTube ⁠ Vimocity Workforce Readiness ⁠Platform⁠ WorkReady Community (FREE): ⁠https://vimocity.circle.so⁠ 🎉 SPONSORS⁠Vimocity⁠ — The Workforce Readiness Platform⁠Vimocity Community⁠ (FREE for field pros)

What makes a leader worth following when the pressure is on?In this episode of the WorkReady Podcast, Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Mark Groves of Northwest Lineman College to unpack what real leadership looks like in one of America’s most demanding and high-risk trades.This conversation goes beyond technical skill. Mark shares why the best leaders:Accept people where they are while holding high standardsSet clear boundaries and expectationsAllow room for failure without lowering the barTake responsibility for their people so everyone goes home safeCONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with Mark GrovesLinkedInNorthwest Lineman College RESOURCES WorkReady Podcast YouTube Vimocity Workforce Readiness Platform WorkReady Community (FREE)🎉 SPONSORSVimocity — The Workforce Readiness Platform Vimocity Community (FREE for field pros)If you lead crews, train others, or operate under real-world pressure, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, accountability, and care.

The deadliest threat in the trades isn’t always on the job. Host Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Jenny Lavin, founder of Union Care Solutions, to tackle the overlooked crisis of suicide and overdose—the “Fatal Fifth” in construction and utilities. They discuss how long hours, travel, and a “tough guy” culture contribute to mental health struggles, and how peer support, Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), and connected crews can save lives. Jenny shares practical strategies for leaders and teammates to check in, build trust, and implement sustainable mental wellness solutions through her Train, Mobilize, Deploy model.Discover how connection and care can protect the people who keep our world running.THE LISTENER TAKEAWAYSThe Hidden Crisis: Suicide and overdose now outpace on-the-job deaths in construction and utilities, becoming the new "Fatal Fifth."Trade Pressures: Long travel, time away from family, and constant work stress take a toll on mental health and contribute to substance misuse.Barriers to Help: “Man up” culture, limited PTO, and fear of job loss prevent workers from seeking support.Peer Support Matters: Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and peer-to-peer programs build psychologically safe, resilient crews.Connection is Protection: Leaders and team members can take practical steps to check in on one another, making vulnerability a strength.Strength in Support: Mental wellness thrives when help is available- at work, at home, and in the community.CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady01:26 Meet Jenny Lavin04:07 Pressures Facing Frontline Workers08:45 The Fatal Fifth: Mental Health in the Trades15:57 Barriers to Seeking Help21:40 The Link Between Physical Pain, Opioids, and Addiction27:24 Critical Incident Stress Management Debriefing33:43 Training and Certification for CISM36:49 Recognizing and Addressing Warning Signs41:30 Building a Connected Crew44:53 The Mission of Union Care Solutions50:14 Steps to Implementing Mental Health Support  CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with Jenny LavinLinkedInUnion Care SolutionsInstagramEmail: [email protected]  Learn more about CISM RESOURCESWorkReady Podcast YouTubeVimocity Workforce Readiness PlatformWorkReady Community (FREE)🎉 SPONSORSVimocity — The Workforce Readiness PlatformVimocity Community (FREE for field pros)

FR clothing isn’t just gear. It’s about your family, your future, and your longevity. In this episode, Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Derek Sang, a leading voice in flame-resistant (FR) and arc-rated (AR) safety education. With 25+ years in the industry and a background as a Division I offensive guard at San Diego State, Derek helps bridge the gap between safety regulations, real-world application, and best practices.He explains why FR/AR clothing matters far beyond compliance: it protects careers, reduces wear-and-tear on your body, and helps workforce athletes perform at their best. Tune in for actionable insights on inspecting PPE, modeling safe behavior, and building a culture of accountability—so everyone can show up ready for the long game.THE LISTENER TAKEAWAYSYour clothing can be the fuel in a fire. FR/AR gear exists to stop everyday fabrics from igniting, not to stop the arc itself.Small habits save careers. Simple things like buttoning your shirt, rolling sleeves down, or not wearing a hoodie under FR gear can be the difference between a scare and a life-altering injury.Fit your PPE like performance gear. Not too tight, not too loose—the air gap matters.Do the 3-second PPE check: Integrity, Fasteners, Fit.Leadership sets the standard. When leadership consistently wears and maintains their PPE correctly, newer employees are likely to emulate them. Today’s workforce needs the “why.” Clear purpose beats rules every time.The trade shortage is real. For every 3 retiring tradespeople, only 1 is entering. Safety and culture matter more than ever.Longevity is everything. Better PPE, better ergonomics, and better habits mean more years doing the trade, and enjoying life after.CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady01:10 Meet Derek Sang: From Athletics to Safety Expert03:13 The Evolution and Importance of PPE07:14 Derek's Journey into the PPE Industry10:03 Advancements in PPE and Safety Regulations16:05 Real-Life Incidents and Lessons Learned27:39 Creating a Culture of Accountability30:53 The Safety Belt Analogy: Consistent Safety Practices39:04 Bridging Generational Gaps in Safety Communication43:50 The Future of Trades and Workforce Challenges47:14 The Role of Safety Professionals and Personal Sacrifices53:50 Derek's Personal Drive and Gratitude CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠⁠⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with Derek SangLinkedInEmail: [email protected] Bulwark FRRESOURCESWorkReady Podcast ⁠YouTube⁠Vimocity ⁠Workforce Readiness Platform⁠WorkReady ⁠Community ⁠(FREE)🎉 SPONSORSVimocity — The Workforce Readiness Platform ⁠http://vimocity.com⁠ Vimocity Community (FREE for field pros)

Olympic champions, Navy SEALs, and today’s workforce athletes all face the same challenge: staying focused and effective when pressure, distraction, and risk are at their highest. In this episode, Dr. Jim Bauman — U.S. Olympic Team sports psychologist and former Navy SEAL performance consultant —shares the mental performance principles he’s refined over 35+ years working with elite performers in extreme environments.From Olympic pool decks to SEAL Hell Week, Jim shares how clear purpose, mental pliability, stress compartmentalization, and strategic recovery help you stay sharp, safe, and energized during long, demanding shifts. Tune in to learn how to perform stronger on the job while keeping enough energy for your life at home.TOP QUOTES“Pliability beats toughness. Tough things break. Flexible things survive.”“The mind needs cues, not pep talks.”“Fatigue doesn’t just slow you down — it changes your decision-making.”“Elite performers stay present. They attack the moment they’re in — not the past, not the future.”THE LISTENER TAKEAWAYSPurpose-Driven Hard Work: Success hinges on knowing your job and aligning intense effort with a clear purpose, much like the hard hat and lunchbox symbolize focus on the task at hand.Mental Pliability Over Mental Toughness: Rigid toughness can break under stress; mental pliability allows you to bend, adapt, and remain upright—a critical mindset for navigating unpredictable, high-risk environments.Compartmentalization: The ability to stay laser-focused on the present moment—your immediate task—by intentionally disengaging from past stressors or future anxieties.The Power of Cues: Using visual or auditory cues (like the swimmer's tattooed smiley face) to immediately shut down negative self-talk and shift attention back to neutral or positive thought patterns.Strategic Timeouts: In the absence of an "off-season," workforce athletes must proactively build strategic recovery breaks into their rhythm to manage fatigue, optimize decision-making, and ensure safety.CHAPTERS00:00 Welcome to WorkReady01:17 Dr. Jim Bowen: Construction Roots to Olympic Success01:52 The Symbolism of the Lunchbox and Hard Hat04:25 The Importance of Purpose in Hard Work13:54 Combat Veterans vs. Elite Athletes22:26 Practical Strategies for High-Risk Jobs32:22 Addressing PTSD and Mental Health in the Workforce42:20 Building Flexibility & Pliability in High-Stress Situations48:26 Impact of Fatigue on Performance51:41 Strategies for Mental Recovery53:37 The Power of Visual Cues01:05:11 Recruiting and Retaining Workforce Talent01:12:24 Strategic Timeouts for Workforce Well-beingCONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠⁠⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with Dr. Jim BaumanLinkedIn RESOURCESWorkReady Podcast ⁠YouTube⁠Vimocity ⁠Workforce Readiness Platform⁠WorkReady ⁠Community ⁠(FREE)🎉 SPONSORSVimocity — The Workforce Readiness Platform ⁠http://vimocity.com⁠ Vimocity Community (FREE for field pros) ⁠https://login.circle.so/sign_in?request_host=vimocity.circle.so⁠ 

Today, Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Coach Mark “Coach P” Paulsen — founder of Wilderness Athlete, former NFL draft pick, and longtime Director of Athletic Performance at the University of New Mexico. With over 35 years shaping athletes—from Big Eight track champions to SEC football players to backcountry hunters and industrial athletes—Coach P brings a rare blend of world-class training, deep nutritional expertise, and real-world toughness.This conversation breaks down the science and habits behind staying strong, sharp, and durable across decades. Whether you’re climbing poles, working storms, running heavy equipment, or chasing grandkids, Coach P offers simple, sustainable ways to move better, fuel smarter, recover faster, and stay ready for whatever your job—or life—throws at you.TOP QUOTES“Your body is your weapon. You have to take time to sharpen the saw.”“Every human being should treat themselves with an athletic mindset.”“Consistency will always outperform intensity.”“Have a vision for how you want to finish your career — and train for that future.”THE LISTENER TAKEAWAYSThis episode gives frontline workers the tools to:Understand what their body needs to stay strong through long, demanding shiftsReduce daily wear and tear through better fueling, hydration, and recoveryBuild strength safely without increasing injury riskFeel better at home with more energy for family and lifeEstablish small, repeatable habits that protect long-term healthReconnect with purpose, identity, and the legacy they want to build CONNECTConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠⁠⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Connect with Coach Phttps://wildernessathlete.com/RESOURCESWorkReady Podcast ⁠YouTube⁠Vimocity ⁠Workforce Readiness Platform⁠WorkReady ⁠Community ⁠(FREE)🎉 SPONSORSVimocity — The Workforce Readiness Platform Vimocity Community (FREE for field pros)

If you work in the trades, this episode may be one of the most important—and empowering—conversations you’ll hear all year.This week, Marine Corps veteran and 30-year construction safety leader Justin Azbill opens up about the moment that nearly ended everything… and how it became the fuel for his mission to help workforce athletes live stronger, lead better, and come home with something left in the tank.But this episode isn’t about the fall. It’s about the rebuild. The clarity. The purpose. And the tools you can use to create your own comeback—before you ever hit a breaking point.Most workforce athletes carry more than they admit:Long shifts and unpredictable schedules Constant pressure and responsibility Sleep that never feels like enough Burnout creeping in without warning The weight of providing for the people you loveJustin’s story shows that you’re not alone—and more importantly, that you can stay ahead of the stress, pressure, and exhaustion that build up over time. This episode gives you real strategies to stay strong, stay steady, and protect your mental, physical, and emotional readiness—on and off the job.In this conversation, Justin shares practical, battle-tested tools to help you:Spot burnout early—in yourself and in your crew Build an ally network so you’re not carrying everything solo Use his 10-minute mindset reset to stabilize your day Improve sleep and daily recovery even when life is chaotic Have energy left for your family after a long shift Create a crisis plan long before life gets hardThis is your guide from feeling drained and reactive → to becoming strong, grounded, respected, and ready for whatever comes next.NEXT STEP FOR LISTENERSStart an “Ally Group”: 3–4 people, weekly 20–30 min check-in • If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, contact trusted local emergency services or a leader/friend you trust.CONNECTConnect with Justin AzbillEmail: ⁠[email protected]⁠WebsiteResource:⁠ https://designrr.page/?id=467850&token=189892929&type=FP&h=4504⁠Connect with Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠⁠⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠RESOURCESWorkReady Podcast ⁠YouTube⁠Vimocity ⁠Workforce Readiness Platform⁠WorkReady ⁠Community ⁠(FREE)🎉 SPONSORSVimocity — The Workforce Readiness PlatformVimocity Community (FREE for field pros)

When your dad works the lines, your childhood looks different. For Hayley Booker, it meant growing up with a superhero — until she realized even heroes struggle when the job gets heavy.Now a Registered Clinical Counsellor who works with trades and frontline professionals across Canada, Hayley helps normalize mental health conversations in the trades — from line crews to leadership teams — by blending science, empathy, and real-world experience.In this conversation, Kevin and Hayley dive into: Why men in the trades often stay silent about mental health. The moment Hayley realized her dad’s stress on the job had changed their relationship. How to listen — not fix — when a crew member is struggling. How to support coworkers through burnout, addiction, or grief after a suicide. The “stress bucket” exercise every crew should try. The 3 mental health triage tools: Eat. Sleep. Move. Why breathing, micro-breaks, and simple “clock-out rituals” are proven stress resets.Whether you’re a foreman, a new apprentice, or a parent trying to stay connected — this episode is for anyone who’s felt the weight of responsibility and silence.Connect with Hayley Booker:LinkedInSomaClinicalCounselling.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠Connect with Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠⁠⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Resources MentionedWhat Happened to You? – Oprah Winfrey & Dr. Bruce Perry (https://amzn.to/49ck8ct)The Body Keeps the Score – Bessel van der Kolk, MD (https://amzn.to/4hUvdRJ) Atlas of the Heart – Brené Brown (https://amzn.to/4oyDxt7) When the Body Says No – Dr. Gabor Maté (https://amzn.to/43nX2vX)Sponsored by Vimocity & WorkReady Community Vimocity helps utility, construction, and energy teams stay strong, safe, and ready for life — on and off the job. Join more than 45,000 workforce athletes already using Vimocity tools to prevent injuries, recover faster, and perform better.Vimocity.comJoin the WorkReady CommunityAbout the WorkReady Podcast: We bring you stories and tools from top performers and experts to help you stay strong, lead well, and retire strong.#WorkReadyPodcast #MentalHealth #Leadership #WorkforceAthlete #Vimocity #WorkReadyCommunity #KevinRindal #Tradespeople #Burnout

I sit down with Eric Kapitulik — Marine Special Operations Officer, Ironman athlete, Everest climber, and founder of The Program — to unpack what real leadership looks like when no one’s watching.Eric shares how a tragic helicopter crash that claimed six of his teammates became the foundation for his life’s work: teaching others to live with purpose, discipline, and accountability. We explore:The difference between standards and goals — and why most teams get it wrong. How to define your core values and make decisions that align with them.The power of truth-telling and facing fear with your crew after a tragedy.What “holding the line” really means for linemen, leaders, and families. Why leadership has nothing to do with titles — and everything to do with consistency. Why real toughness includes vulnerability, asking for help, and staying mission-focused under pressure.Eric’s lessons apply as much to the field as they do to family life — the same grit that gets you through a storm helps you lead your kids, your team, and yourself.Resources Mentioned:The Program – Eric KapitulikBoundaries for Leaders- Dr. Henry CloudConnect with Eric Kapitulik: theprogram.org LinkedInConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal: ⁠⁠⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠SPONSORSVimocity helps utility, construction, and energy companies keep their teams strong, safe, and performing at their best. Learn more about how over 45,000 field employees are using Vimocity’s tools and programs to prevent injuries and perform better — at work and at home. Learn More at Vimocity.comJoin the WorkReady Community — a peer network of frontline professionals and leaders who share tools, stories, and practical strategies to stay strong, lead well, and retire strong.Join the WorkReady CommunityABOUTAbout the WorkReady Podcast: We bring you stories and tools from top performers and experts to help you stay strong, lead well, and retire strong.#WorkReadyPodcast #Leadership #Accountability #Discipline #WorkforceAthlete #Vimocity #WorkReadyCommunity #KevinRindal #TheProgram💡 This Episode Is Powered by Vimocity

Third-generation lineworker Ken Lulow opens up about his “wake-up call” — from a rough apprenticeship that almost drove him out of the trade to finding purpose as a mentor, leader, and advocate for the next generation. He and Kevin Rindal unpack how humility, resilience, and owning your story can transform burnout into leadership that lifts entire crews.If you’ve ever questioned whether the pain and pressure of this work are worth it, Ken’s story will remind you that purpose is the fuel that keeps you steady when storms hit.You’ll Learn:The apprenticeship experience that almost broke Ken — and how he used it to build grit.The “human element” of safety — why readiness starts long before the pre-job brief.How leadership shifts from “command and control” to “connection and culture.”Why your legacy isn’t the lines you build, but the people you influence.Quotes to Remember:“Leadership is a responsibility, not a title.” “Your body is your biggest tool — take care of it like you do your truck.” “You can’t lead your crew if you’re running on empty.”Connect with Ken Lulow🔗 Website: LineworkerSolutions.com 🔗 LinkedIn: Ken Lulow on LinkedInConnect with Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠⁠⁠⁠WorkReady Hub⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to Field Notes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Vimocity ⁠⁠Community⁠⁠ (FREE for field pros) Recommended Resources:Extreme Ownership – Jocko Willink The Infinite Game – Simon Sinek Atomic Habits – James Clear Carhartt Work Gloves Milwaukee Rechargeable Headlamp Hydro Flask 32 oz Water Bottle 

Welcome to the WorkReady Podcast—where workforce athletes learn how to perform at their best, lead with purpose, and build a stronger life at home and on the job. Hosted by Dr. Kevin Rindal—Ironman athlete, Olympic sports chiropractor, and CEO of Vimocity—each episode brings you stories and science-backed tools to help you move from worn down to unstoppable.Whether you’re a lineman, operator, or leader in the field, this show will help you fuel your body, sharpen your mindset, and lead your crew with confidence.🎧 Subscribe now and start your journey to retire strong—Work Ready.

Eric Rogers—PhD, MBA, and sleep specialist for elite teams like the Navy SEALs—joins Kevin Rindal to reveal the science of sleep for workforce athletes. Learn how to break the cycle of fatigue, fix your sleep zones, and build energy that lasts on the job and at home.💡 You’ll Learn: Why elite performers treat sleep as their #1 performance tool How to use box breathing and the “hot-shower hack” to wind down Truth about caffeine, nicotine & alcohol on your recovery Simple habits to fight shift-work fatigue and sleep apnea🔗 Links & Resources:Take the Sleep Zone Quiz →⁠ peaksleep.com⁠👋 Connect: Kevin Rindal →⁠ kevinrindal.com⁠ |⁠ LinkedIn⁠ Dr. Eric Rogers →⁠ peaksleep.com⁠ |⁠ LinkedIn⁠🎉 Powered by⁠ Vimocity⁠ — helping workforce athletes move better, recover faster & stay strong.

After more than two decades in the utility industry, Dr. Maria Silva-Palacios has seen an unhealthy pattern—too many field pros accepting pain as “just part of the job.”In this episode, she joins Dr. Kevin Rindal to challenge that mindset and reveal how true safety culture starts with everyday leadership, empathy, and trust. Drawing on her doctoral research in organizational change and her personal story of overcoming fear to complete seven triathlons, Maria shows why physical pain, burnout, and disengagement are warning lights—not badges of honor.You’ll learn how leaders at every level can create psychological safety, inspire change “one buoy at a time,” and turn check-the-box programs into habits that help crews move better, feel better, and retire strong.You’ll Learn✅ How empathy and authenticity drive real engagement in safety programs ✅ Why psychological safety is the foundation for preventing injuries ✅ The mindset shift from “pain is normal” to “pain is information”✅ What “one buoy at a time” teaches us about resilience and leadershipResources & Links📘 Book — Safe Zone: Cultivating Engagement One Leader at a Time 👉⁠ Buy on Amazon ⁠Watch on YouTube ⁠ @WorkReadyPodcast⁠ 🌐 Connect with Dr. Maria Silva-Palacios —⁠ LinkedIn⁠ |⁠ @dungeonfitness⁠ 🌐 Connect with Kevin Rindal on  LinkedIn 🎉 SponsorsVimocity — The Workforce Readiness Platform Vimocity Community — Join free for behind-the-scenes insights and tools for workforce athletes

Welcome to the WorkReady Podcast—where workforce athletes learn how to perform at their best, lead with purpose, and build a stronger life at home and on the job. Hosted by Dr. Kevin Rindal—Ironman athlete, Olympic sports chiropractor, and CEO of Vimocity—each episode brings you stories and science-backed tools to help you move from worn down to unstoppable.Whether you’re a lineman, operator, or leader in the field, this show will help you fuel your body, sharpen your mindset, and lead your crew with confidence.🎧 Subscribe now and start your journey to Retire Strong—Work Ready.

Most field pros accept pain as “part of the job.” Dr. Maria Silva-Palacios joins Kevin Rindal to challenge that belief—revealing how empathy, trust, and leadership can stop the cycle and build a safety culture that actually lasts.

You fuel your truck with premium gas, change the oil on schedule, and check the tires before every trip. What about your own body? The one machine you depend on to provide for your family.Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Dylon Koch, founder of Working Athlete and former collegiate strength coach, who grew up doing landscaping in 120 degree Phoenix heat alongside his Marine Corps dad. That experience gave him a firsthand understanding of what dehydration, poor nutrition, and lack of recovery actually do to a working body. Today he educates linemen, operators, and construction crews across the country on the one thing most safety programs miss.This is not another heat safety talk. This is a field tested hydration and nutrition playbook built for the workforce athlete.You will learn:How dehydration silently causes brain fog, soft tissue injuries, and accidents that never get recorded as heat casesThe Galpin Equation: exactly how much water you need every 20 minutes on shiftSludge blood: what poor hydration does to your circulation, reaction time, and decision makingElectrolytes beyond the banana: why magnesium and zinc matter as much as sodium and potassiumCreatine, BCAAs, and protein targets built for physical work not just the gymPre, intra, and post shift habits you can start tomorrow without overhauling your lifeWhy energy drinks are spiking cortisol and quietly driving mental health struggles in the tradesIf you have ever grabbed two Monsters and a bag of Funyuns on the way to work, this episode could change how long and how strong you last in this industry.Watch the Episode on YouTube👉 Click here to watchShow Notes & Resources👉 Visit Here Connect with Our Guest, Dylon KochLinkedInConnect with your host, Dr. Kevin Rindal⁠kevinrindal.com⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠LinkedInGet InvolvedSubscribe to Field Notes with Kevin – weekly tips to fuel, move, and recover betterExplore the WorkReady Community – a peer network built for workforce athletesSponsorship: This episode is made possible with support from:Vimocity- The Workforce Readiness Platform Vimocity Community (FREE) - The Vimocity Community is the first online community built for field professionals—where key people from the trades share behind-the-scenes insights and practical strategies to help you move better, prevent injuries, and feel your best.

What does it take to survive the hardest hits, recover when life knocks you flat, and lead others through it? Dr. Kevin Rindal sits down with Rob Jones, a U.S. Marine Corps combat engineer, double above-knee amputee, Paralympic bronze medalist, and Echelon Front leadership instructor, to bring battlefield-tested lessons to the field. From clearing IEDs in Afghanistan to rowing for Team USA, biking 5,180 miles across America, and running 31 marathons in 31 days, Rob is extreme ownership in action.He breaks down his Survive, Recover, Live framework, how to flip "I can't" into "I can't yet," and why the best field leaders proof the lane by going first, surfacing hazards early, and building trust through humility and humor. If you're a lineman, operator, gas tech, T&D crew member, or warehouse leader, this one gives you the mindset to perform at your best, lead without a title, and go home strong.You’ll learnField leadership that works: Laws of Combat for crews—Cover & Move, Prioritize & Execute, Decentralized CommandResilience you can use today: “I can’t → I can’t yet,” recovery habits to finish strong and be present at homeProof the lane on the job: Go first, surface hazards early, keep tailboards honest, build trust—with humor and humility