Kerry Smith - Podcast Details

Shows

BUILD America #30 Inspiring Tradespeople to Turn Their Ideas into Products with Michael E. Cox, inventor of StepStudsIn this episode of BUILD AMERICA, host Kerry Smith Buck interviews Michael E. Cox, president of Horizontal Base Studs and inventor of StepStuds. Michael, a journeyman carpenter, developed StepStuds in 2018 after witnessing extensive flood damage in healthcare settings, seeking a "better way" to perform repairs. StepStuds are the world's first patented horizontal base stud, designed to lift drywall off the floor, hidden behind cove base, to prevent water damage. This innovation dramatically cuts repair costs by 75% and reduces room downtime by half after water intrusion. While initially focused on healthcare, StepStuds have also been successfully u...

2025-08-0417 min

BUILD America # 29 Future Trends in Construction Recruiting with Brian Conway, LVI AssociatesIn this episode of Build AMERICA, Kerry Smith Buck talks with Brian Conway, Principal Recruitment Consultant at LVI Associates, about the future of construction hiring. Brian shares how AI and data are streamlining recruitment—from sourcing candidates to speeding up placement timelines. They discuss the rise of hybrid roles, shifting Gen Z expectations, and why passive candidates are often the best hires. Whether you’re hiring or job hunting in construction, this episode offers real insight into where recruitment is headed.

2025-07-3116 min

BUILD America #28 Making Sure Your Candidate is a Cultural Fit” with Lea Ann Dies & Daniel Conaway, RussellIn this episode of Build AMERICA, Kerry Smith Buck sits down with Daniel Conaway, VP of Operations, and Lea Ann Dies, Director of People and Culture at Russell, to talk about what it really takes to hire for culture fit in the construction industry. They share how Russell uses tools like Predictive Index, emotional intelligence assessments, and team referrals to go beyond resumes—focusing on soft skills, core values, and team chemistry. From panel interviews to team assimilations, this episode is packed with practical insights on building people-first construction teams.

2025-07-3019 min

BUILD America #27 Recruiting & Retaining Employees in the Office & Field w/ Angie Lovatto & Tony Roderman, Kerry Smith Buck KCI ConstructionIn this episode of Build America, host Kerry Smith Buck speaks with Angie Lovatto, VP of HR, and Tony Roderman, Field Operations Manager at KCI Construction, about the evolving strategies for recruiting and retaining both office and field talent in the construction industry. They discuss the power of employee referrals, mentoring future superintendents from within, reaching untapped talent pools like reentry programs and technical schools, and balancing tech tools with human connection. Whether it’s finding top-tier project managers or loyal tradespeople, this episode offers real-world insights on building a strong, people-first workforce.

2025-07-0815 min

BUILD America #26 How Important is Your Organization’s Brand in Recruiting? w/ Liz Campbell, Atlanta Electrical Contractors AssociationIs your construction company's brand attracting the talent you need? Host Kerry Smith-Buck and branding expert Liz Campbell from the Atlanta Electrical Contractors Association reveal why strong organizational branding is critical for recruitment and retention. Discover how to combat industry stigma, appeal to Gen Z's demand for authenticity, and successfully rebrand for a massive boost in apprenticeship applications and overall success. Learn practical tips, proving it's about "ownership," not just big budgets, to transform your company's future!

2025-07-0820 min

BUILD America #25 Demographic Challenges in Construction Recruiting w/ Pete Wisnom & Kyle Hullmann, AllSearch RecruitingIn this episode, host Kerry Smith Buck speaks with Pete Wisnom and Kyle Hullmann of AllSearch Recruiting to tackle one of the industry’s most pressing concerns: hiring and retaining talent in construction. They dive into how demographic shifts, like the aging workforce and the rise of Gen Z, are impacting the hiring landscape. From salary expectations and counteroffers to culture, training, and long-term career paths. This conversation explores the real reasons candidates stay or walk away.

2025-07-0820 min

BUILD America #24 Modular Housing's Role in Right-Sized Living with Amelia DicksIn this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith sits down with Amelia Dicks, Director of Business Development at Wind River Built, to unpack the urgent issue of America’s housing shortage and why diversifying housing stock is a critical part of the solution. From the rise of single and two-person households to outdated zoning regulations, Amelia explores how offsite modular construction could pave the way for more financially viable small homes. The conversation challenges conventional building practices and advocates for smarter housing options that better reflect today’s market needs and life stages.

2025-05-0520 min

BUILD America #23: Construction Tech Adoption with Lutalo Webb (Guarantee Electrical)In this episode of BUILD America, Kerry Smith Buck interviews Lutalo Webb, Vice President of Guarantee Electrical Company, who emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey, not just focusing on the finish line. They discuss how leaders can balance delivering safe, efficient, and high-quality work while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and people-first values. The conversation also highlights the power of data-driven decision-making and the importance of understanding how different individuals interpret goals and challenges on the job.

2025-04-2220 min

BUILD America #22 Mental Health Impacts Construction Safety with guests Joe Shryock and Drake ZappiaIn this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith-Buck talks with safety experts Joe Shyrock and Drake Zappia about top construction hazards, including OSHA’s “Fatal Four” and the rising concern of mental health in the industry. They share real-world prevention strategies, the role of safety tech, and how their work with the Southern Illinois Builders Association helps promote a stronger, more supportive safety culture.

2025-04-1124 min

BUILD America #21 Where Planning Meets Productivity with Yvette ParisIn this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith sits down with Yvette Paris, president and majority owner of Lauer Facility Planning in Collinsville, Illinois. With nearly two decades of experience in interior design and a background rooted in functionality and wellness, Yvette shares her inspiring journey—from a fresh design graduate to running a woman-owned business that blends design expertise with community impact.

2025-04-0420 min

BUILD America #20 The Veterans Who Build: Transitioning from Military to Construction Adam StarkIn this episode, Kerry Smith sits down with Adam Stark, a Special Forces veteran and host of "The Veterans Who Build Show" - a podcast dedicated to sharing stories of veterans transitioning from military service to the construction industry. The conversation explores the natural synergies between military experience and construction careers, highlighting how the team-based environment, physical demands, and need for adaptability make construction an excellent fit for veterans.

2025-03-2621 min

BUILD America #19 Detroit: The Poster Child for Resilience with PJ Jenkins, Pres & CEO of MIG ConstructionIn this compelling episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith interviews PJ Jenkins, President & CEO of MIG Construction, about resilience in both business and life. PJ shares the remarkable story of his fourth-generation construction company in Detroit, discussing their evolution from a multi-sector contractor to specialists in healthcare, gaming, and hospitality construction. PJ offers valuable insights on personal development, stressing the importance of holistic well-being in entrepreneurship, and shares his unique approach to hiring "industrial athletes" - team members valued more for their character and adaptability than technical skills.

2025-03-2122 min

BUILD America #18 The Best Strategy for Marketing Your City with Patrick McKeehanIn this episode, Kerry Smith-Buck interviews Patrick Mckeehan from O'Fallon, Missouri about effective city marketing. Mckeehan shares his city's successful strategy of early stakeholder engagement and discusses three core principles: certainty, simplicity, and speed. The conversation covers how manufacturing projects prioritize workforce availability, while retail development focuses on demographics and location. Drawing from Mckeehan’s experience, the episode offers key insights into modern urban development approaches. For more information, visit https://mycnr.com/

2025-01-2223 min

BUILD America #17 Cybersecurity Standards for Contractors and Subs w/ Jered Bare & Wayne ShawIn this episode of BUILD America, Kerry Smith Buck sits down with cybersecurity experts Wayne Shaw and Jered Bare to discuss crucial Department of Defense (DOD) cybersecurity requirements for contractors and subcontractors. The conversation covers essential topics including Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), Federal Contract Information (FCI), and the implementation of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). For those seeking more information, resources are available through: Five Nines Consulting (http://http://fiveninessconsulting.com) Security Insight (http://securityinsight.co) AGCMO (http://agcmo.org) http://CyberAB.org For more information, visit http://www.informationworks.org

2025-01-1419 min

Sales Lead Dog Podcast Kerry Siggins: Crafting a Culture of Ownership at WorkKerry Siggins, the dynamic CEO of StoneAge and author of "The Ownership Mindset," joins us for an insightful conversation about transforming organizations through an ownership mindset. Kerry’s journey from a mindset of victimhood to one of accountability, as well as her success in building a thriving employee-owned company, serves as a powerful testament to the impact of leadership rooted in trust and empowerment. Our discussion unpacks the strategies and challenges of fostering a culture where risk-taking is encouraged, and team members feel genuinely invested in their work. Hear firsthand how embracing vulnerability and storytelling can strengthen lea...

2024-11-1835 min

BUILD America #16 Drug Test Cheating on the Upswing with Quest Diagnostics’ Suhash Harwani, PhDIn this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith Buck welcomes Dr. Suhash Harwani, Senior Director of Science for Workforce Health Solutions at Quest Diagnostics. Together, they explore a revealing survey on drug testing tampering and rising positivity rates in sectors such as construction. Dr. Harwani shares insights from the extensive drug testing index, which includes over 8 million tests, highlighting alarming trends like a 633% increase in substituted urine specimens. They discuss the implications for employers, the benefits of oral fluid testing, and the importance of well-crafted drug testing policies. Tune in to understand the critical data that could shape...

2024-07-0921 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 36: Protecting Workers in Extreme Heat with Donna Richter and John Holt, Southern IL Builders Association:Welcome to this episode of BUILD St. Louis, the podcast that captures the heartbeat of the construction industry. I'm your host, Kerry Smith Buck, owner of Construction News and Review. Today, we're delving into the crucial topic of safety on construction sites during extreme heat. Our guests are Donna Richter, CEO of Southern Illinois Builders Association (SIBA), and John Holt, SIBA's safety director. Donna and John will share their expertise on the specific safety measures needed during hot weather, the importance of proper hydration, and recognizing the signs of heat stress and exhaustion. We'll also discuss practical tips for...

2024-07-0314 min

BUILD America #15 Moving DEI to the Project Level to Embrace Communities with Kiara FortsonIn this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith Buck explores the practical application of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the construction industry with Kiara Fortson, DEI Project Implementation Director at ArchKey Solutions. Kiara shares her journey into DEI, her challenges and strategies for fostering an inclusive environment, and the importance of community engagement and mentorship for small businesses. She outlines her framework for successful DEI implementation and discusses ArchKey's efforts in workforce development and supplier diversity. Kiara also reflects on the evolving demographics and future impact of DEI in construction. For more information, visit www...

2024-06-2623 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 35: Arcturis: Hello, My Name Is: The Essence of Brand Experience with Judy Glik and James ButlerIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith Buck, President and CEO of Construction News and Review (CNR), explores the fascinating process of naming buildings, especially historic signature structures, with Judy Glick and James Butler from the architecture and design firm Arcturis. Judy, the Director of Brand and Client Engagement, and James, the Design Practice Leader for Arcturis's Brand Experience Group, delve into the importance of brand experience in architecture and interior design. They discuss how naming a building is akin to naming a child, starting with understanding the essence of the brand from the client's perspective...

2024-06-1118 min

BUILD America #14 Bringing the Power of VDC to Adaptive Reuse Projects with Byron Conley & Taylor Moon,In this podcast episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith welcomes Byron Conley, a project engineer, and Taylor Moon, a senior VDC manager from Russell, to explore adaptive reuse projects. From transforming a century-old YMCA into a modern hotel and museum to discussing the role of VDC in preserving historical elements while integrating modern amenities, Conley and Moon shed light on the intersection of history and innovation in construction. Reflecting on the completion of the 21C project in St. Louis and anticipating future trends in adaptive reuse construction, listeners gain valuable insights into the transformative power of technology in...

2024-05-2125 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 34: Building Energy Performance Standard with Jeremy Welch - It’s Not Too LateIn this podcast episode of BUILD St. Louis, Kerry Smith, owner of Construction News and Review magazine, introduces Jeremy Welch, a project engineer, and Chris Ruth, the Mid Missouri Controls Manager from Integrated Facility Services (IFS), as they discuss the significance of the Building Energy Performance Standard (BEPS) in 2024. BEPS mandates buildings over 50,000 square feet in St. Louis to benchmark their energy use intensity (EUI), with the top third of buildings setting the EUI target for the rest. 2024 marks the first analysis year, determining each building's score. EUI, or energy use intensity, measures a building's energy use per square...

2024-05-0718 min

BUILD America #13 Mark Dalton, Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council “Fighting Construction Industry Tax Fraud”In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith discusses the pervasive issue of tax fraud in the construction industry with guest Mark Dalton, Assistant Political Director for the Mid America Carpenters Regional Council. They explore how tax fraud and wage theft affect workers, communities, and the economy, highlighting red flags and enforcement efforts. With insights into the regional scope of the problem and calls to action for public involvement, the episode sheds light on the complexities of combating tax fraud in construction. For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

2024-04-2416 min

BUILD America #12 The Do’s and Don’ts of Construction Collections with Quinn MurphyIn this episode of BUILD America, hosted by Kerry Smith, attorney Quinn Murphy of Sandberg Phoenix explores the essential do's and don'ts of construction collection. Discussing the significance of having a structured system, understanding contractual and legal rights, and securing retainage through liens, Murphy provides valuable insights for contractors facing payment challenges. Kerry and Murphy delve into the complexities of contract reviews, cautioning against signing unconditional lien waivers before payment, and emphasizing the need for prompt initiation of collections. This episode offers practical advice and strategic considerations for construction professionals navigating the intricacies of receivable recovery. For...

2024-03-0524 min

BUILD America #11 Latest Trends in Indoor Ag Design & Construction w/ Clayco’s Ron Jones & Ron MitchellIn this episode of BUILD America, Kerry Smith, owner of Construction News and Review (CNR) Magazine, explores the world of indoor agriculture with guests Ron Jones and Ron Mitchell from Claco. Ron Jones, the vice president of Claco's industrial group, discusses groundbreaking methodologies for delivering capital projects in the indoor grow and greenhouse space. Ron Mitchell, a master grower and expert in aeroponics and hydroponics, highlights the unique qualities of indoor agriculture compared to traditional outdoor methods. The conversation covers the challenges of controlling environmental factors, the diversity of crops grown indoors, and the complexities of mechanical systems and...

2024-02-2723 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 33: Milwaukee Valve: The Connectedness of Builders and Suppliers with Jeff KieferIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith discusses the critical need for connectedness in the construction community with Jeff Kiefer, National Director of Commercial and Industrial Sales at Milwaukee Valve. Jeff emphasizes the importance of collaboration and training in four key areas: labor, regulations, technology, and the supply chain. He shares insights on leveraging suppliers for training, adapting to regulatory changes, and staying informed about evolving technologies and supply chain challenges. The discussion also highlights the role of the Mechanical Contractors Association in fostering connectivity within the industry. Jeff concludes by underscoring Milwaukee Valve's longstanding commitment...

2024-02-2017 min

BUILD America #10 The Big Stay: How Construction Companies are Reimagining a People-First Culture with Jennifer Nguyen and Dana BorchertIn this episode of Build America, host Kerry Smith delves into the dynamics of workforce retention, honing in on the "Big Stay" movement within the construction industry. Jennifer Nguyen and Dana Borchert from CMA Global join the conversation, shedding light on the aftermath of the Great Resignation and the shift towards a more people-centric approach to attract and retain talent. The discussion encompasses the diverse challenges faced by different roles in construction, emphasizing the significance of grasping employee values, autonomy, mastery, and purpose. Nguyen and Borchert underscore the pivotal role of organizational culture in retaining top talent and share...

2024-02-1323 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 32: What is Lightweight Cellular Concrete? with Jane and Mike Megown, Elastizell of St. LouisIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith welcomes Jane and Mike Megown from Elastizell of St. Louis to discuss lightweight cellular concrete. They explore the material's composition, diverse applications including backfill for MSE walls and pipe abandonment, and its cost-effectiveness compared to traditional materials. The Megowns highlight a project in Nashville as an example of the material's efficiency in filling gaps around a parking garage foundation. They stress the importance of educating structural designers and engineers about lightweight cellular concrete's benefits and offer their expertise to interested parties. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into the...

2024-02-0622 min

BUILD America #9 Prefabrication Ingenuity with Tim GunnIn this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith interviews Tim Gunn, Vice President Construction at Alberici Constructors Inc., about the topic of prefabrication design and engineering. They discuss the challenges faced by the industry, such as supply chain issues and workforce availability, and how prefabrication can help address these challenges. Tim highlights the benefits of offsite construction, including better control on quality, safety, and materials management. He also shares examples of prefabricated components in projects like City Park Stadium and healthcare facilities. Tim emphasizes the importance of early planning and coordination with designers for successful prefabrication. ...

2024-01-0321 min

BUILD America #8 Applied Technology Increases Productivity with Kurt and Reid Bangert In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith interviews Kurt Bangert, President and CEO of Bangert Incorporated, and Reid Bangert, COO and Integrator of the company. They discuss the role of Bangert Inc. and Sage Intacct Construction in making life easier for the construction industry by automating processes and providing innovative technology solutions. Kurt Bangert emphasizes the company's 40-year history and their belief in the power of applied technology to increase productivity. He also highlights the importance of customer satisfaction and the strong relationship they have with their employees. Reid Bangert explains how their deployment system f...

2023-12-1321 min

BUILD America #7 Construction Industry Storytelling with Chris MartinIn this episode of Build America, host Kerry Smith interviews Chris Martin, a marketing guru and president of Atlas Marketing. They discuss the art of storytelling in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry and how to effectively communicate the stories of AEC firms. Chris emphasizes the importance of simplifying complex processes and issues to make them understandable to a wider audience. He compares storytelling in the AEC industry to a movie or film, where various elements and characters come together to create a compelling narrative. Chris also addresses the need for AEC companies to move beyond generic marketing...

2023-12-0621 min

BUILD America #6 Lessening the Carbon Footprint with Kyle KammerIn this episode of Build America, host Kerry Smith interviews Kyle Kammer, Director of Quality for Concrete Strategies. They discuss the impact of cement and concrete production on carbon dioxide emissions and the efforts being made in the concrete industry to reduce its carbon footprint. Kyle explains that while concrete is a major producer of CO2, it is also the most used building material in the world. He highlights the importance of considering the whole life cycle of a building and the resilience of concrete structures. Kyle also mentions the concept of "green concrete" and the various methods being...

2023-11-2917 min

BUILD America #5 America’s Transportation Funding with Alex Etchen, AGC of AmericaIn this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith discusses the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) with Alex Etchen, Senior Director for Infrastructure Management at the Associated General Contractors of America. The IIJA is a 1.2 trillion dollar investment in US transportation infrastructure over five years, with a focus on roads, bridges, mass transit, airports, and broadband deployment. The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities presented by the IIJA, including supply chain constraints, workforce shortages, and the importance of the Brent Spence Bridge. Despite these obstacles, there is optimism for the future impact of the IIJA.

2023-11-2217 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 30: What Lies Beneath with Jeremy RodriguezIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Jeremy Rodriguez, president of Crossroads Construction Services. They discuss Jeremy's expertise in environmental abatement and demolition services. Jeremy explains that his company primarily focuses on removing hazardous materials and conducting interior demolitions to create safe spaces for builders and developers. He mentions the various types of materials they handle, including asbestos, mold, lead, universal waste, and hazardous household waste. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of thorough testing and collaboration with environmental consultants to ensure proper handling and disposal of materials. For more information, check www.informationworks.org

2023-11-1422 min

BUILD America #4 School Security Design-Build with Patrick Aylesworth, S. M. Wilson & Co.In this episode of BUILD America, host Kerry Smith discusses the topic of school security with Patrick Aylesworth, Director of Operations at S. M. Wilson Company. S. M. Wilson is a construction management and general contracting firm that focuses on designing and building secure educational facilities. They emphasize the importance of creating spaces that balance safety and a welcoming environment for students and staff. Patrick highlights various security measures, such as secured entry vestibules, biometric fingerprint systems, video surveillance cameras, and secure classrooms. He also mentions the need for layered security and the importance of collaboration between project owners...

2023-11-0820 min

BUILD America #3 Firm Foundations for Safe Buildings & Bridgeswith Travis KassebaumIn this episode of BUILD America, host Kerryi Smith interviews Travis Kassebaum, a Principal and Geotechnical Department Manager at Terracon. They discuss the importance of firm foundations for safe buildings and bridges. Travis shares insights into the Leaning Tower of Pisa and its foundation issues. He also explains the role of geotechnical engineering in ensuring the stability and longevity of structures. They touch upon the 2007 collapse of the Interstate 35 bridge in Minneapolis and the impact of inspections on construction projects. Travis emphasizes the variability of soil conditions across different regions and the need for tailored engineering solutions. He also...

2023-11-0120 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 29: Post-Pandemic Class A Office Leasing with Tom RayIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith welcomes Tom Ray, a first vice president at CBRE, to discuss the state of California Class A office leasing in St. Louis in mid-2023. They explore the impact of remote work on the office market and how it has changed the traditional playbook of office space usage. Tom highlights the opportunities and challenges for landlords and tenants in this evolving landscape, including the flight to quality and the importance of creating a better office experience for employees. They also discuss the length of office leases, the rising construction costs...

2023-10-1021 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 28: The Current State of the Supply Chain with Randy BueckendorfIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Randy Bueckendorf, the president of BEX Construction Services. Randy shares his expertise on the state of the construction material supply chain, discussing the ongoing supply chain issues in the industry. He mentions that while the supply of raw materials like lumber, steel, and copper has improved, there are still significant challenges with electrical switchgear and HVAC equipment. Randy explains how project teams navigate these delays by adjusting project timelines and finding temporary solutions. He also highlights the importance of collaboration between designers, builders, and owners in finding innovative...

2023-10-0312 min

BUILD America #1 Built Robotics: “Robots on the Project Team” with Erol AhmedIn this episode of BUILD America, Kerry Smith interviews Erol Ahmed, the Director of communications at Built Robotics. They discuss the role of robotics in the construction industry and how Built Robotics is developing software to make construction equipment autonomous. Erol explains that their focus is on automating earth-moving energy projects such as solar and they have started with small equipment like skid steers and CTLs before moving on to larger equipment like dozers and excavators. They see excavators as a platform that can revolutionize the construction process. Erol also discusses the increasing adoption of robotic technologies in the...

2023-09-3018 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 27: Staying Safe on the Jobsite with John Flynn, Contegra ConstructionIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews John Flynn, Safety Director at Contegra Construction, about the importance of staying safe on the job site. They discuss Contegra Construction's safety culture, which is characterized by collaboration and involvement from all levels of the company, including the leadership team. John highlights the company's commitment to employee safety and the implementation of measures such as pre-job meetings and kickoff meetings to address potential risks and ensure safety protocols are in place. He also emphasizes the importance of employee buy-in and involvement in the safety program. For m...

2023-09-2614 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 26: IMEG: The Critical Importance of Big Data with Brendon BuckleyIn this episode of the BUILD St. Louis podcast, host Kerry Smith interviews Brendon Buckley, leader of building intelligence and integration services at IMEG. They discuss the topic of big data and its life-saving power in the context of design and construction. Brendan explains the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) and how it relates to big data. He shares examples of how big data and IoT are being leveraged in different industries, such as airlines and theme parks, to enhance the consumer experience. For more information, check www.informationworks.org

2023-09-2120 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 25: Economic Development Done Right with Patrick McKeehanIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Patrick McKeehan, the economic development director for the city of O'Fallon, Missouri. McKeehan discusses the importance of creating a balanced community and how economic development is the creation of wealth. He explains the role of economic assets and the importance of matching them to the needs of businesses looking to invest in the area. For more information, visit informationworks.org

2023-09-1318 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 24: Artificial Intelligence & Construction with Tomislav ZigoIn this episode of the BUILD St. Louis podcast, Kerry Smith interviews Tomislav Zigo, Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Clayco, a global full-service, turnkey real estate architecture, engineering, design, build, and construction firm. They discuss artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the built environment, including its potential to optimize processes throughout the project delivery cycle, from design to handover. They also touch on related technologies such as machine learning and computer vision. Love emphasizes the importance of situational awareness and data governance in the adoption of these technologies. For more information, go to...

2023-09-0518 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 23: Recruiting – Finding & Keeping the Very Best PeopleIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith speaks with Matt Stack, President of Russell Co. St. Louis office, and Jill Niebuhr, Russell Co.'s Talent Acquisition Manager, about their strategies for recruiting and retaining the best people in the construction industry. They discuss how Russell Co's philosophy of investing in people before technology growth has helped them grow sustainably, as well as the importance of core values, competitive compensation, career development opportunities, work-life balance, and a supportive work culture in retaining top talent. For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

2023-08-3022 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 22: Expediting Development - Moving at the Private Sector’s Pace with Julie Powers and Lisa BedianIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, Kerry Smith interviews Julie Powers and Lisa Bedian from the city of St. Peter's, Missouri, about their FasTrac program for expedited development and permitting for businesses. They discuss how the program was created and how it has helped both large corporations and small mom-and-pop businesses. The key to their success is their process of bringing the right people in the room early on and being solution-oriented. For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

2023-08-2226 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 21: Building a Healthy Workplace Culture with Geri BoyerIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, Kerry Smith interviews Geri Boyer, founder and president of Kaskaskia Engineering Group (KEG). Boyer discusses the unique culture at KEG, which emphasizes flexibility, work-life balance, and service to humanity. She also shares her experience as a woman in the engineering field and how she started KEG with the intention of creating a different work model that was more conducive to women and men who wanted to work in a different way. For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

2023-08-1520 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 19: Augmenting the Audience Experience at Powell Hall with Brian Corry and Unitey KullIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith speaks with Brian Corry, an acoustic consultant and partner at Kirkegaard, and Unitey Kull, vice president of marketing and audience experience for the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, about the renovation and expansion of Powell Hall. They discuss the challenges of modernizing a structure on the National Register of Historic Places, and the importance of preserving the beauty and historical architecture of Powell Hall while still making improvements. The episode also highlights the importance of considering the artist experience and the thoughtfulness put into every detail, including materials...

2023-07-3126 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 18: Managing and Improving Excavation Safety with Len ToenjesIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Leonard (Len) Toenjes, President of the Associated General Contractors of Missouri (AGCMO), about excavation safety and the Missouri One Call 811 system. Toenjes discusses the importance of the One Call system and the need for modernization to improve effectiveness and safety. He also mentions the federal study that ranked Missouri near the bottom of the list in terms of cost to utilities and rate payers due to inaccurate locates or locates not done on time. For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

2023-07-2418 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 17: How B2B Companies Can Engage in Compelling Storytelling with Todd ImmingIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Todd Imming, the Chief Marketing Officer at the Korte Company, a design build firm based in Highland, Illinois. They discuss how B2B companies in the architecture, engineering, and construction space can tell their stories in compelling ways. Todd emphasizes the importance of genuine storytelling and sophisticated grit, which is the hard work and challenges involved in the construction industry. For more information, visit www.informationworks.org

2023-07-1818 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 16: Reputation Management Done Right with Ron O’ConnorIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith speaks with Ron O'Connor, owner of O'Connor and Partners, about reputation management in the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. Ron defines reputation management as the process of managing a firm's reputation as an asset and emphasizes the need for a long-term and proactive plan to manage reputation. He also shares insights on crisis management best practices, including the role of spokespeople and the messaging strategy during a crisis, as well as the importance of legal counsel in developing a crisis communication plan. For more information, visit www...

2023-07-1020 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 15: Building Effective Working Relationships with the News Media with Steve HoustonIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Steve Houston, Founder and Owner of Compass Communications LLC, about building effective working relationships with the news media in the architecture, engineering, and construction industry. Houston shares insights on how to make a project newsworthy, when to approach the media, and communicating with clients about deadlines. He also emphasizes the importance of strategic PR planning and understanding the difference between news releases and pitches. The episode provides valuable tips for AEC marketing professionals and others seeking to gain meaningful traction with print and broadcast news media.

2023-07-0325 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 13: True Business Development in 2023 with Doug PetersIn this episode, Kerry Smith and Doug Peters discusses the impact of the pandemic on companies' approach to innovation and growth, highlighting the importance of agility and resilience. He also emphasizes the role of culture, leadership, diversity and inclusion, data, partnerships, creativity, feedback, and technology in driving innovation and growth. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-06-2022 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 12: Building Project Diversity with Tony ThompsonIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, Tony Thompson, Chairman and CEO of the Kwame Building Group, Inc. (KWAME), talks with host Kerry Smith about building project diversity in the construction industry. Thompson shares his experience as a minority-owned business owner in the construction management arena, and how he has worked to attract and retain a diverse workforce. He also discusses the challenges faced by minority-owned firms in the industry, including the negative stigma of being labeled as "disadvantaged”. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-06-1227 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 11: Construction Industry Opportunities for Women with Tracy HartIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Tracy Hart, President of Tarlton Corporation. Kerry and Tracy talks about the lack of women in the construction industry and what Tarlton Coporation s doing to support women in their choice to play a role in the industry. Tracy also shares her own path into the industry and offers advice to women who are considering entering the construction industry or those who have recently entered. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-06-0516 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 10: Saving Historic St. Louis Buildings with Joel FuossIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith and Joel Fuoss, principal of Trivers Associates, discuss the importance of preserving historic buildings in St. Louis. Joel stresses the importance of willingness and money in embarking on these projects, as well as the need for creative thinking and working with what the building gives us. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-05-2921 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 9: Women Construction Company Executives with Amy BergIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Amy Berg, president of S.M Wilson and Company, a St. Louis-based design build construction management and general contracting firm. Berg, who has 30 years of experience in the construction industry, discusses her experience as one of the first women to hold the title of the Office of President in St. Louis Construction History. She talks about women in construction then and now, and how the industry is changing to better support women and people of color. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-05-2220 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 7: Why Aren’t Contractors Bidding on Public Projects? with Steve BannesIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Steve Bannes about the lack of interest in public projects from contractors and the potential reasons behind this. They discuss the traditional delivery system and alternative methods like design-build, as well as the federal government's use of QBs for project execution strategy. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-05-0822 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 6: Avoiding Construction Defect Litigation with Quinn MurphyIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews attorney Quinn Murphy, who heads the construction and receivable recovery industry teams at Sandberg Phoenix. Murphy discusses construction defect litigation and provides six tips on how to avoid it. The episode covers topics such as the parties involved in construction defect claims, types of claims, and the importance of a well-defined scope of work and strictly enforcing the change order process. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-04-3027 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 5: The Anatomy of the St. Louis Region’s Construction Workforce with Timothy Sullivan, PhDIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, Kerry Smith interviews Timothy S. Sullivan, in the Department of Economics and Finance and the Director of the Office of Regional Economic Analysis in the School of Business at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. They discuss the shortage of workers in the construction industry, particularly among young men. Tim shares statistics on labor force participation rates and discusses the impact of inflation on wages and the need for programs to expose young people to construction occupations. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-04-3019 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 4: Clayco’s Diversity and Inclusion Program with Sandra MarksIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Sandra Marks, Senior Vice President at Clayco. They discuss Clayco Rising, the company's diversity, equity, and inclusion program, and specifically its efforts to promote minority participation on job sites. Marks explains that the program is the culmination of over 25 years of work by the company to be inclusive of all contractors, regardless of race, gender, religion, or background. They also discuss the construction industry's efforts to address mental health and suicide rates, as well as the growing importance of diversity in the industry. For more information...

2023-04-3021 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 3: The Rise of Speculative Industrial Space in St. Louis with Steve ZuberIn this episode of the BUILD St. Louis podcast, host Kerry Smith interviews Steve Zuber, a partner at BARBERMURPHY, about the rise of speculative industrial space in the St. Louis region. Zuber discusses the supply of industrial warehouse space, the difference between heavy industrial and consumer good users and the challenges of finding enough labor to support the growth of industrial space. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-04-2018 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 2: Hammering Out Solutions to the Construction Labor Workforce Shortage with Scott ByrneIn this episode of BUILD St. Louis, host Kerry Smith interviews Scott Byrne, St. Louis regional director of the Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council. Scott discusses the increasing demand for construction workers in the St. Louis region and how the Carpenters are addressing the workforce shortage. He talks about the importance of recruitment, especially among women and minorities, and how the union is reaching out much earlier than ever before and in new and creative ways to schools and communities to educate young people about careers in the trades. Scott also emphasizes the need for strong relationships between contractors, owners...

2023-04-2025 min

BUILD St. Louis Episode 1: St. Louis Freight Corridor - A National Hub in the Making with Mary LamieIn this episode, Kerry Smith interviews Mary Lamie, Executive VP of Multimodal Enterprises at Bi-State Development. Kerry and Mary talk about the factors that influence the St. Louis freight corridor, including the role of Interstate 70 and multimodal connectivity. Mary also addresses the challenges of funding and delivering projects in the current climate, highlighting the importance of being creative and flexible in project delivery. For more information, check www.informationworks.org.

2023-04-2019 min

Seriously Uncork Yourself Episode 15: The Power of Your Inner Voice with Kerry Smith“I believe it is your job in life to be happy” - Kerry Smith Today on the podcast, I am interviewing Kerry smith. Kerry is the owner and co-founder of the world renown Awakening Trainings. She has over 20 years of experience and has been professionally trained by Robbins-Madanes Training, Brendon, Roger Love, Judith Kravitz, is a High Performance Coach and many more which you will learn about in The Awakening Trainings. Kerry shares her journey with us and how she used her intuition and inner voice to profoundly help her child and many others. She talks...

2020-12-0334 min

Keep Calm And Kerry On Sheridan Smith OBEKerry is back for a second season of Keep Calm And Kerry On. With a brand new lineup of amazing theatrical superstars, Kerry will once again be talking them through the highs and lows of their careers, plus also finding out how they keep calm and kerry on.In this episode Kerry is chatting with TV and Theatre star Sheridan Smith OBE. Sheridan is an incredible award winning actress with two Olivier Awards, A Bafta and a National Television Awards under her belt as well as being appointed an OBE in the 2015 New Years Honors.

2020-10-1453 min

The Urban Farm Podcast with Greg Peterson Kerry Smith on Harvest for Health.Mentoring cancer survivors through backyard vegetable gardens.In This Podcast: Anyone who gardens knows the benefits, but Kerry Smith is proving it with her Harvest for Health program for cancer survivors. This experiment partners the Alabama Master Gardeners with Auburn University to track improvements in physical activity, diet, and stress markers for people who beat cancer. In addition to teaching them gardening basics and healthy food habits, they spread the love for plants through volunteers who are motivated by heartwarming experiences. Kerry is the Home Grounds team Co-leader in the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Working...

2020-02-0133 min

The Urban Farm Podcast Private feed for Members Kerry Smith on Harvest for Health.Mentoring cancer survivors through backyard vegetable gardens.In This Podcast: Anyone who gardens knows the benefits, but Kerry Smith is proving it with her Harvest for Health program for cancer survivors. This experiment partners the Alabama Master Gardeners with Auburn University to track improvements in physical activity, diet, and stress markers for people who beat cancer. In addition to teaching them gardening basics and healthy food habits, they spread the love for plants through volunteers who are motivated by heartwarming experiences. Kerry is the Home Grounds team Co-leader in the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Working...

2020-02-0134 min

Healthy Wealth 023: Kerry Gough | Mindfulness and the Power of VulnerabilityOVERVIEW: In this episode of Fitness & Finance, Kerry Gough, Practicing Therapist and a ‘Practicing Person’ talks to your host Erik Smith about having mindful awareness and balance when striving for health and fitness. Kerry shares tips on how to check in with yourself to address your personal needs, how to feel more connected to others, and the power in vulnerability. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: Kerry Gough discusses her upbringing What led Kerry to pursue higher learning for psychology? What was Kerry’s father’s reaction when she made her career shift?

2019-11-041h 02

Punch Out With Katie and Kerry Mari Smith on Fancy Cakes, Music, Charity...and Haggis!If you think making a boxed cake is tricky, try making a three-tier wedding cake with sugar orchids. Too difficult? Not for Mari Smith. On this episode of Punch out with Katie and Kerry, we talk with Mari Smith about her baking roots and what she learned from her dad, what role music has played in her life, and if photography is in her future. Mari Smith is a keynote speaker, brand evangelist, best selling author, Facebook trainer, social media evangelist, and “Queen of Facebook.” In this episode we learned: About Mari’s journey from Canada to Scot...

2019-10-0824 min