Shows
Constructing GreatnessThe Blueprint of Resilience. Navigating Challenges In the Construction Industry with Frank GallagherShould you bet on your resiliency and adaptability to shape your success in the construction industry?In today's episode, we delve into Frank Gallagher's story. From economic downturns to changes in the industry, Frank navigated every challenge that popped up by relying on his resilience and ability to adapt to setbacks, miscalculations, and obstacles.Throughout this conversation, you'll hear about Frank's journey in the construction industry, his background as a civil engineer coming from Puerto Rico as a sophomore, and the conscious effort he put into his personal growth, leading to the founding...2024-07-3032 minConstructing GreatnessThe Challenging but Rewarding World of Construction: Insights from Coty Fournier"It's just not for everyone. It's really hard. And I think it's important to be honest; that it's a really, really tough job. But the tough jobs that you find a way to excel and win in are extraordinarily rewarding." - Coty FournierIn this episode, we have the privilege to learn all about business development and construction operations from Coty Fournier, who has over 25 years of sustained success in the space on both sides of the owner-contractor equation. Coty is a Professional Talent Development and Growth Strategist, Trainer, Workshopper, Speaker, and Author. She is also...2024-05-1459 minConstructing GreatnessThe Unconventional Path To Success: Insights from Chris HarderHave you ever thought a massive setback might be an opportunity to change your life? Sometimes, it is about being ready to adapt and understanding that life happens for us, not to us. In today's episode, I'm honored to receive the extraordinary Chris Harder to talk about unconventional paths to success, his unique perspective on life, entrepreneurship, resilience to bounce back from adversity, and relentless attitude to always look for the sunny side of life. Chris is an Investor, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Host of the Chris Harder Show, and Founder of Frello, an app that makes friendlier l...2023-12-0757 minConstructing GreatnessThe Journey of a Mechanical Engineer: Insights from Jim Gardler, Director of MEP OperationsDid you know, right after high school, what you wanted to do with your life?For most people, even those with a strong inclination when they are kids, it takes time, patience, proper support and guidance, and multiple experiences. Today, I'm joined by Jim Gardler, Director of MEP Operations at Bala Consulting Engineers, to talk about his vocational discovery journey, the moment he realized he wanted to be a mechanical engineer, and the choices and experiences that led him to develop a successful career in the construction industry. Throughout our co...2023-11-0954 minConstructing GreatnessYou Must Put the Reps In To Strengthen Your Entrepreneurship Muscle with Kieran Williams"It's hard to learn who you are, but it's really easy to understand who you are not."In this episode, I'm joined by Kieran Williams to talk about entrepreneurship, priorities, motivation, and the thought process of choosing a career path. Kieran is a former competitive soccer player, a New Jersey native, a Digital Identity Specialist, and the Owner of The Garage Gym, a 24/7 access fitness facility created for folks tired of overcrowded mainstream gyms. You'll hear about Kieran's journey into entrepreneurship, his thoughts on what he learned about business from his Bachelor's Degree i...2023-08-1559 minConstructing GreatnessTurn Your Identity Into A Profitable Business with Shira CharlesIs it possible to start a company with zero knowledge or experience in the industry and turn it into a successful business? In today's episode, I'm joined by the wonderful Shira Charles, Interior Design Expert, Entrepreneur, ADHD Advocate, and Mom. Shira founded Charles Interior almost 8 years ago, and thanks to her passion and natural talent for interior design, she turned the company into a national design firm, broadly known in the industry and completing projects nationwide. "Only six months before I opened my business, I knew that interior design was a career an...2023-07-0433 minConstructing GreatnessDiscover Your Subconscious Potential And Rebuild Your Future with Russell DoupSecurities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, Member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this podcast are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may be suitable for you, consult the appropriate qualified professional prior to making a decision.Is there anything you would like to do, yet you hold yourself back for some reason because you probably couldn't anyway? In this episode, I'm joined by the inspiring Russell Doup, Public Speaker, L...2023-05-3041 minConstructing GreatnessHow To Network Your Way To Success with Jessica SlackIntentional networking is essential not only in construction but in any industry; creating meaningful connections can sometimes open more doors than formal education. In this episode, I'm joined by Jessica Slack, Senior Executive and Private Sector Growth Leader at Gilbane Building Company, one of America's largest building companies. Although her father was widely known in Philadelphia's construction space, she never thought she'd end up in construction. Her innate drive for relationship building led her into sales and business development first, and her ambition and need for new challenges took her to construction later.W...2023-02-2137 minConstructing GreatnessLet Your Passion Dictate Your Next Steps with Chris CondonDespite going after a degree in Communications following solid advice from his father, our guest, Chris Condon, knew he belonged to the Construction Industry. Following his passion, he transitioned from Marketing Coordinator to Lead Superintendent, to Project Manager, to Sr. Construction Manager. Today, 20 years of experience later, he is a Senior Vice President of Development, Construction & Operations. "Get a job that doesn't require working outside in the winter."In this episode, Chris Condon, Senior Vice President of Development, Construction & Operations at Coretrust Capital Partners shares his story of passion for the tr...2023-01-3138 minConstructing GreatnessPouring Passion Into Every Project with Jeff Francesconi from Capital ConcreteIf you love what you do, your job will never feel like work, and as if that wasn't enough, you'll never have a bad day. Meet Jeff Francesconi, President at Capital Concrete, a man in love with the trades since day one, who, in every concrete pouring, feels the same excitement he felt in his first one almost 20 years ago. In this episode, we dive into Jeff's journey in the trades, from his start in the 90s, when having a steady job was reason enough to feel lucky, to his decision to start hi...2022-12-2027 minConstructing GreatnessWhen Starting Your Own Business Just Feels Right with Ron OrmsbyWould you know when is the right time to start your own thing? In today's episode, Ron Ormsby, Founder of BellCo Demolition, joins us to talk about his journey in the trades. After a lifelong experience in the construction industry, Ron saw an opportunity where everyone else saw a crisis and decided to rely on his expertise to start his own business. Throughout our conversation, Ron talks about his early days in the trades in his teen years, the opportunity of running a company he got when he was 20 years old, and how he...2022-11-2918 minConstructing GreatnessSwinging At Curveballs, Regardless of the Odds with Mike WardBeing medically discharged from the Marine Corps certainly felt like one of life's curve balls for our guest, Mike Ward. Still, his calling for public service wouldn't be silenced by that; it'll just remain dormant for a time. Following his father and grandfather's steps, he'd become a Union electrician, which years became a critical piece for developing his career as a first responder. Meet Mike Ward, New Jersey State Police's brand new Sergeant First Class, former Hazardous Materials Specialist, Task Force Officer at the ATF, and Electrical Aspects of Fire Investigation Instructor at the National Fire Ac...2022-10-0424 minConstructing GreatnessLove What You Do, and It'll Be Easy To Become Good At It with Ed DeAngelisAlthough it's hard to associate tattoed, long-haired, rough construction workers with people who pay attention to their emotions, that is one of the crucial points our guest, Ed DeAngelis, focused on to secure his success. He understood that those workers' emotions (even if they weren't ready to admit it) could and would interfere with their ability to be their best version at work. That is why his company, EDA Contractors, invests lots of its resources in training his workers on leadership and emotional intelligence.Ed DeAngelis is the CEO of EDA Contractors and one of the...2022-08-2349 minConstructing GreatnessBe Vulnerable, Put Yourself Out There, and You'll Harvest the Sweetest CropAlthough most people think that things like luck or destiny are the ones behind new business opportunities or partnerships, these things are a byproduct of our openness to meeting new people and putting ourselves out there consistently. Those are some lessons I've learned during the pandemic, like creating meaningful connections, being surrounded by like-minded people, keeping a curious mind, and always being willing to learn.Today, in our 50th episode together, I take a moment to reflect on how far we've gone with this podcast, the wonderful people I've been fortunate enough to m...2022-08-0215 minConstructing GreatnessGrowing the Family Business by Prioritizing Customer Service and Culture with David OliverAdaptability is the first thing people think necessary to run a successful third-generation family business. Undoubtedly, the firm's capacity to absorb and adjust procedures and techniques to the fast-paced advance of technology is detrimental, but it's not all of it. In this episode, David Oliver joins us to reveal how making culture a priority served the family business hundreds of times more than any tech improvement. David is the President of Oliver Fire Protection & Security, the largest commercial fire protection provider in the metropolitan Philadelphia area. The business started in 1957 and experienced consistent gr...2022-07-1233 minConstructing GreatnessHow To Perfect and Convert A Craft into A Business 101 with Dan PaulsonThis week, Dan Paulson joins us to talk about his path in the construction industry, his relationship with the school and formal education, and his first steps in the trades, literally, from the ground up. After high school, Dan quickly realized the school wasn't a place for him, at least not at that time. Then he started working in the trades, but his drive to constantly challenge and improve himself led him to finish school and become a mechanical engineer while working full time. He is the Owner of Commercial Doors, Frames & Hardware; he...2022-06-2821 minConstructing GreatnessThe Odds Are Always In Our Favor When We Bet In Ourselves with Kristen PucciKristen Pucci joins us today to talk about nurturing and following the entrepreneurship spirit, trusting the process, and the magical power of believing in ourselves. Kristen is the founder and CEO of KRAE Consulting, a company created to assist successful AEC Industry business owners who don't have time to promote their companies and increase their presence on social media. Passionate for marketing, sales, and research, Kristen found her place on earth in her senior year, when she had to develop a marketing plan for Kinsley Construction.In this episode, Kristen talks about her u...2022-06-1449 minConstructing GreatnessAvoiding Traditional Paths and Creating Alternative Roads To Success with Andre GolsorkhiSoon in his life, our guest, Andre Golsorkhi, found out he wasn't made to follow a traditional career path would demand. He had an entrepreneurial spirit, always eager to learn, solve specific problems, and discover new ways of doing things. Andre Golsorkhi is the Founder and President of Sidecar, a company leader in e-commerce marketing technology, recently acquired by Quartile. Before Sidecar, Andre founded MediLync, Omeda, and Snipi, three different startups with different destinies and multiple valuable lessons to develop Andre's career. Andre takes us on a fantastic trip around his career in th...2022-05-311h 02Constructing GreatnessA Life of Being Prepared For What Might Happen with Erin O'DonnellWe have a special guest today on the show, a man who puts his own life on the line to help others, Erin O'Donnell. He is a Firefighter recently promoted to Lieutenant at the Willingboro Fire Department, a loving husband, and a proud father of two beautiful daughters. Knowing what he wanted to do when growing up never was an issue for Erin; being a fireman had been his deepest desire since he was a child. He would spend so much time in his town's Fire Department before becoming 18, the legal age to start Fire School, t...2022-05-1753 minConstructing GreatnessBorn to build. The Journey of Yan Girlya In the Construction IndustryKnowing what he wanted to do never was an issue for our guest, Yan Girlya, who always knew he wanted to be in the construction industry. One day in ninth grade, a professor asked the students to say their names and what they wanted to be as grown-ups during a history class. Lawyer, accountant, doctor, and engineer would be the most heard professions until young Yan raised his hand and said, contractor. Yan Contractor would be his name from that day on until the end of the year. Yan Girlya is...2022-05-0346 minConstructing GreatnessDemystifying The Elevator Consulting Industry with Christine WorkmanAfter many years in the construction industry, our guest, Christine Workman, had an aha moment facing an elevator. The first thing she noticed was that nobody around seemed to know much about them, and the second thing she noticed was that until elevators are inspected, it is not possible to get anything done. The idea of getting into the elevators industry was roaming inside her mind when destiny decided to give her a little push: Otis Elevator, one of the industry's giants, found her resume on monster.com. Christine Workman is a Regional Ac...2022-04-1934 minConstructing GreatnessBuilding On Trust And Ensuring Peace of Mind To Customers with Paul McDonaldToday, Paul McDonald, President of McDonald Building Company, LLC, joined us to talk about his experiences in the construction industry. When he started his company twelve years ago, Paul committed to four principles: safety, quality, integrity, and sustainability. Today, Paul's construction company specializes in providing peace of mind through their devoted attention to detail and excellence, ensuring every project stays on track and on budget. We delve into Paul's journey into the industry, why he decided to start his own company, and the most significant challenges he had to overcome. We talk about th...2022-04-0524 minConstructing GreatnessLearning About the Real Dangers of the Digital World with Tim GuimThings like ransomware, phishing, or spyware perhaps sound like something distant, too digital, in a certain way. However, the feeling of seeing our letterhead sent to one of our clients demanding a payment we never asked for can turn these digital threats into a scary palpable menace. Joining us today is Tim Guim, Founder and CEO of PCH Technologies, to talk about the real danger of digital threats, how to prevent them, and why he believes the world is about to experience an increase in digital crimes. Tim is a Cybersecurity and IT Expert, Entrepreneur, Thought L...2022-03-2233 minConstructing GreatnessTime Can't Be Stopped, But It Can Be Created with Ajay PatelRunning a successful business and living on stress mode 24/7 shouldn't sound like synonyms, but unfortunately, many people can't have one without the other. However, it is possible to run a thriving organization without paying with our physical and mental health, and our guest, Ajay Patel, is here to prove it. He turned his 8-hour workdays into 2-hour workdays with a simple yet effective system, and today, he'll tell us exactly how he did it. Ajay Patel, the Productivity Maestro, is the Founder of Create Time Today. They specialize in increasing productivity by optimizing action plans, creating e...2022-03-0839 minConstructing GreatnessThrowing Curveballs In His Own Field of Dreams with Ryan KulikRyan Kulik was one step away from accomplishing his dream of pitching in the MLB, when in 2011, during spring training with the Cardinals, coaches suggested that he become a lefty specialist. Although he struck out 5 guys in two innings in his first outing, his arm started bothering him, and he started slowly but surely going downhill. He kept the pain to himself for some time, and surgery was the only solution when he finally spoke about it.He alternated between Double and Triple-A teams for years, but he never lost his passion for the game. At...2022-02-2240 minConstructing GreatnessPutting the Effort, Never Giving Up, and Turning Dreams True with Andy RossWhen the kid dressed in a JCPenney suit got into Advantage International's office, he already knew the internship position he wanted to apply for was already filled. He also knew he wouldn't leave that place without a fight, so he asked to talk with Tom George, Advantage International's Senior VP, and waited. More than two hours later, that kid in his senior year of high school, wearing a cheap suit, told Mr. George he would work for free; he just wanted to learn the sports marketing business. The following Monday, that kid, Andy Ross, started his u...2022-02-0827 minConstructing GreatnessTurning An Alternative To College into A Road To Success with David LisowskiJumping right to college after high school and pursuing a degree that might not be our passion but can help us land a well-paid job has been branded as the right thing to do for years. The fact that even knowing that a college degree won't translate into a good job, students sink into massive debt is not discussed enough; it's broadly accepted and, in many ways, expected. Our guest, David Lisowski, went for the college experience and got his Bachelor of Arts degree from Penn State Abington, and although he doesn't regret getting it, he d...2022-01-2542 minConstructing GreatnessFollowing Our Passions and Listening To the Right People with Mark HijarFollow your passion might be one of the most misinterpreted phrases ever; it doesn't mean "spend your time eating chips and watching movies," it means to focus on what you are good at and enjoy doing, and find a job where you can do that. If you are handy and don't like reading, don't pursue a law degree; if you are not handy and love reading, don't be a mechanic.For the first time in the show's history, we have an attorney as a guest, Mark Hijar. Mark is an expert in cutting-edge approaches to supply...2022-01-1147 minConstructing GreatnessThe Calm After the Storm with John and Anthony ZurzoloA few months after leaving the buildings maintenance and cleaning company he was working on, Anthony Zurzolo got a massive lead. It was a half a million contract for working on two towers; the contract was ready to sign and start the following week. Without hesitation, he convinced his brother John to quit his job and join him; they were prepared to rock it. But, destiny had something prepared for them, a massive hurricane blew the roof of one of the buildings they were supposed to work on. The contract got canceled; they had to figure o...2021-12-2833 minConstructing GreatnessHaving Fun and Knowing Great People While Making Sales with Kayla Paonessa DeJohnAs she got out of college with a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and Corrections, Kayla Paonessa DeJohn started working as a Juveline Case Manager, helping kids from 13 to 19 deal with anger management, goals setting, and personal development. After almost 4 years, Kayla was emotionally burned out; it was challenging for her to know that despite those kids' massive potential, their environment at home wouldn't be probably the best, and there was little she could do about that. Looking for a career change, and as she tried to figure out what to do, Kayla went back to s...2021-11-2327 minConstructing GreatnessBarbie The Welder in SculpturelandGrowing up for Barbie The Welder wasn't exactly a fairy tale; it was more like the hero's path. She had a wonderful childhood, though; her mother constantly stimulated her creativity, and her father, a jack of all trades, taught her how to use tools, repair, and build stuff. Then, she became a single mom at a young age and fought her way through auto mechanics school, her second love; she graduated and tried to get into the Air Force, but she couldn't. Seven plus years in the automotive industry, dealing with never-ending sexism and personal issues pushed her to...2021-11-0234 minConstructing GreatnessWhen Passion and Life Circumstances Conspire In Our FavorFollowing her passion for art and math, Elizabeth Graziolo decided that getting into an engineering university was an excellent way to leave her house. She was a teenager that just immigrated to the US, but dealing with puberty and starting to build her future didn't seem much for her; in fact, it was one of her traits - she enjoyed challenging herself. She got into the Cooper Union's Architecture program, which she thought she'd use to get into The Albert Nerken School of Engineering, Cooper Union's largest engineering school. But after a semester of Architecture, she fell in love...2021-10-1929 min
UnCut Insights with Don Martin LiveMaster Mining: Nicholas Ofak On today's episode of Master Mining we go into the mind of Entrepreneur Nicholas Ofak. Nick is a business owner, Entrepreneur, former D1 College Athlete, Construction Manager and Builder who has managed constructing nearly $500 million of various projects. He also has a Podcast dedicated to sharing real stories from tradesmen and professionals in construction and various other industries. Learn more at Constructing Greatness 2021-10-1145 minConstructing GreatnessThe Man Who Solves The Problems We Don't Even Know We HaveEarly in his life, Gregory Finkle tasted the pleasure of accomplishing something and getting paid for it. At 14 years old, he was already ambitious and a hard worker; he started helping in an extermination company, handling an eighty-pound hammer drilling holes in a basement. Encouraged by his parents and incentivized by his desire to accomplish more, the habit of being rewarded for his job accompanied him through college as well. After becoming a civil engineer, his desire to consistently achieve more, faith, and hard-working mindset helped him go from Engineer to Operations Manager in his first job and start...2021-10-0534 minConstructing GreatnessBehind the Scenes of Conscious Disposal with Jon and Jamie WybarBack in 2004, Revolution Recovery was just a couple of people working the phones from home, seated in front of the computer trying to get a client. They would rent a side lot, a small place, their first physical space two years later. Then, in 2008, the company opened its first Philly spot, where they poured a big concrete slab and built a retaining wall. After eight years of hard and honest work, they opened their second plant in Newcastle, Delaware. The company now has three plants; the third one opened in 2018 in Allentown. Today, Jon and Jamie Wybar join us...2021-09-2142 minConstructing GreatnessFrom Arts Professor To Successful Entrepreneur. Marvin Bowe's Extraordinary JourneySince he was very young, Marvin Bowe knew his destiny wasn't far from advertising, marketing, and brand building. He went to college and became a graphic designer. At the time, he had this idea of having only one talent, and if he didn't use it, he would be lost. He made understanding every aspect of pharmaceutical advertising his mission, and he became one of the best at it. Time and experience would let him know there was more waiting for him; he learned and expanded his horizons, and today, he tells us everything about that. Marvin B...2021-09-0736 minConstructing GreatnessUsing A Different Path to Follow the Family StepsWhen John McCarroll's father came to America, with little money in his pockets, uneducated, and college not being an option, he got advice to join a trade. John would grow up watching his father who became a steamfitter, and his uncle and cousins working on the construction. John knew he wanted to be in construction from a young age, but he also knew he wasn't very good with his hands, so he decided to go through the college path. Visiting us today is a great person, a fantastic professional, and a dear friend, John McCarroll. John h...2021-08-2446 minConstructing GreatnessHelping Small Businesses Dream Big with Julie Traxler and Corey HarrisOne of the many challenges small businesses face is the lack of affordable options for hiring consulting firms. Large consulting firms won't bother to work with solopreneurs or firms with less than ten employees because of their uniqueness. Most of those small firms are hands-on businesses that can't afford to invest the time or the resources, and on the other hand, those high-priced consultants tend to sell services that aren't needed, ignoring their clients' needs.Having these issues in mind, using their background in the corporate world and their experience working for Fortune 500 companies, Julie Traxler...2021-08-1032 minConstructing GreatnessFrom Rock Bottom to Rocking his Life with Kyle DepiesseJust because we can do something doesn't mean we should do it; Kyle Depiesse learned that the hard way. He went for a degree in business administration and started working on finances because he was good with numbers. He got into the corporate world and began pursuing what he was taught to, climb the corporate ladder, work for the next promotion, be the first to get there, and be the last to leave. After 13 years of that insane race, he ended up exhausted, in debt, and burned out. He and his wife decided to regroup, and as a first...2021-07-2740 minConstructing GreatnessOur First Year of Constructing Greatness TogetherGetting out of our comfort zone is a challenging, yet rewarding, decision to make. To me, it was starting a podcast and putting myself out there, interviewing tradesmen and business owners to add value. And I discovered that accepting new challenges and committing to overcoming them is a satisfying feeling, regardless of the success of our new endeavor. In this episode, after one year of our first episode, I want to thank our listeners for joining us on every episode, our guests for helping me build this show, and our sponsors for believing in this project. I...2021-07-1310 minConstructing GreatnessNever is Too Late to Start Constructing Our StoryAfter finishing high school, Stan Chorzelewski still didn't have a clear idea of the path he would follow, and he was already working at Acme Markets pushing carts. College seemed like the right option, so he started the Business Administration and Management course at Camden County College. Working hard and giving 100% at every position he worked in Acme, Stan made his way up to Assistant Store Director. He developed many tools that would help him a lot in the future as a Store Director, but Stan decided to make the leap of faith into the construction industry as the...2021-06-2947 minConstructing GreatnessKnowing a Successful School of Life GraduateHaving a rough time at a terrible school and feeling he wasn't learning anything of value there, George decided he would leave his formal education aside and started roofing; he was 16. However, he would discover that roofing in Philadelphia wasn't precisely a dream job, so a couple of years later, he was pursuing a different dream. Fast forward a couple of years, George started his own commercial floor maintenance company with reasonable success, but what would put him in the right direction was his experience as a real estate agent. In 2006, he sold over $25 million as a...2021-06-1534 minConstructing GreatnessDesserts With the Right Amount of Salty HumorMisty Solomon always worked in sales, with incredible success everywhere she operated. For her, edible arrangements were a way of showing appreciation to her team members. Until one day, she realized those products could be better, and as a hobby, she started producing them in her house. Although Misty never thought her hobby could turn into a business, she opened her first store four years later. Joining me today is Misty Solomon; she is the Owner & Head Chocolatier at Devour Desserts. Misty worked as Mentor and Team Leader at Tastefully Simple for over ten years, where s...2021-06-0129 minConstructing GreatnessEmbracing the Chase of a PassionLeaving the corporate world and turning a lifetime passion into a business sounds like a dream come true for most of us. Although there is no doubt that working in what we are passionate about is an ideal situation, our today's guest, Chuck Garrity, believes it is not about dreaming but about planning. Creating a business out of a passion takes work, long nights of planning, lots of research, and getting ready to face countless challenges along the way. Joining me today is Chuck Garrity, founder, and CEO of Death of the Fox Brewing Company, the f...2021-05-1852 minConstructing GreatnessGrowing the Family Tradition with Kris WilsonEven after graduating from college as a physical education teacher and coaching high school kids for over 12 years, Kris Wilson's entrepreneurial spirit was more substantial than his pleasure in teaching. He found in the family agriculture endeavor a place to flourish his entrepreneurial mindset, first infusing technology to it, and now as a co-owner of Growtopia Farms LLC. Joining me today is Kris Wilson, an entrepreneur, a friend, and a neighbor. Kris worked as a wrestling, baseball, and soccer coach at Pennsville Memorial High School for over a decade. He also worked in network marketing, where h...2021-05-0437 minConstructing GreatnessThe Joy of Being Worried About Every DetailThe construction business is a dynamic and heterogeneous space where many different disciplines and complementary activities work together. For instance, precision and imagination work together to solve various challenges; no two days are the same. And in contrast with many other industries, where an empty inbox or the end of a commercial relationship signalizes the conclusion of a project, in the construction business, a successful project is a building that will be there forever. In this episode, I have a fantastic conversation with Brian Emmons, Development Manager at Southern Land Company. He is involved in one o...2021-04-2030 minConstructing GreatnessThe Art of Nurturing, Loving, and Training Good Boys and GirlsDeciding what career to pursue after finishing highschool might be one of the most challenging, and in some cases defining decisions in early adulthood. The norm is going to College and pursue a career in the corporate world or becoming a professional in medicine, law, or engineering. For entrepreneurial souls, that is not always the best path. However, even after 10 or 15 years in a corporation, with school debts, a mortgage, and maybe kids, leaving the 9 to 5 universe to chase our dreams will be challenging but not impossible. Joining me is Erika Gonzalez, Founder of From Dusk T...2021-04-0654 minConstructing GreatnessPresent and Future of Construction Supplies with Sean HendersonThe pandemic and the way people responded to it affected some industries diminishing their production and sales and increasing the demand in others, leading to insane price escalation. The fluctuation of prices, both abrupt and unpredictable, put salespeople and contractors on the spot, making selling extremely hard, and complicating their delivery dates. As there is little people inside the industry can do about it, the best tactic is to try and relax and do the best possible with what is available. Today's guest is Sean Henderson, Outside Sales Representative at Bell Supply. We had a great c...2021-03-2327 minConstructing GreatnessBusting Myths and Assumptions with Shannon TymoskoThere is a shortage of skilled trades reported by several entities. The number of construction workers retiring every year is bigger than the number of apprentices joining the industry. Why is this happening? Some would say that is because, in the past, injuries were more common, and people losing limbs or even dying was a part of it. And that's something today's parents grew up seeing and don't want for their kids. Others suggest that the shortage is a symptom of social pressure and the idea that without a college degree, no one can succeed. Reality shows that today...2021-03-0936 min
Fire and SoulNicholas Ofak and Bonni Howard | Answering the Call to Share: How Podcasting Builds Community and Creates ConnectionI truly believe that everyone's got a unique message that has value. Whether it’s something you’ve learned through the perseverance of a tough upbringing, the unique perspectives you’ve gained through your industry niche, or your triumph over an injury or illness in your life, there is someone out there who needs to hear from you. If you’ve heard that little whisper in your ear, encouraging you to share your story, then thank the universe because you’re exactly where you were meant to be. In today’s episode, I’ve got two more g...2021-03-0452 minConstructing GreatnessThe Perks of Having An Entrepreneurial Spirit with Matthew QuigleyHearing yes from someone accepting to invest in our company is a great moment; still, we need to be mindful about who we are taking on board with us. We need to evaluate what they can bring to the table. Would they leverage our company's success or encumber it? The same rule applies when selecting a business partner; these are decisions we need to take time to make. Joining me today is Matthew Quigley, founder and CEO at Stateside Urbancraft Vodka. He is a serial entrepreneur experienced in product development and a specialist in business launch a...2021-02-2342 minConstructing GreatnessThe Perfect Coach For Playing Business with Mick Bigwood Jr.Starting a business is something that, technically, almost anyone can do. The difference between the type of business we build is on the goals we pursue, what we want to achieve, and how. In today's episode, we chat with Mick Bigwood Jr., owner and operator at Bigwood's Custom Painting. He has a BS in Sports Management from the Delaware Valley University and a Masters in Sports Administration from Canisius College. He worked as a Business Manager of the Baseball All-Star Academy, and he coached the South Jersey Warriors baseball team for four years. We...2021-02-0935 minConstructing GreatnessThe Power of Performance and Curious MindsIn today's episode, I chat with RDL Construction's President, Ronald Lind. He briefly studied Business Administration, but what he believes helped him understand and succeed in the construction industry was picking people's brains, asking questions, and working hard.In 2012, Ron put together RDL Construction, an ambitious project that didn't stop growing since. His company furnishes and installs interior and exterior metal and wood framing. They do acoustic ceilings, drywall, install doors & frames, toilets accessories, and more. RDL Construction carpentry service is so broad that it makes them a unique company in the construction market. 2021-01-2625 minConstructing GreatnessFollowing Fitness Dreams with Christian LeeWhat is your relationship with fitness? Do you have any fitness or health goals for 2021? It’s no secret that gyms are among the many industries that were hit hard from the lockdowns during the global pandemic, but some owners have found a way to still be around for the people that wanted to keep their bodies in shape. In this episode, I am joined by my friend, Christian Lee. Christian is a biomechanical specialist and the owner of Escape Fitness Training Facility. Christian started in the financial industry and soon realized that he wanted to enj...2021-01-1239 minConstructing GreatnessWhy the Construction Industry is So Rewarding, with Victoria LevesqueJoining me on today’s show is someone who has grown up with a strong understanding of the construction industry, Victoria Levesque! Having been surrounded by family members who worked in this field from a young age, Victoria has leveraged that education to develop a successful career as both an estimator and managing director. She is now a proud Co-Owner of the established commercial glazing company, MEG Glass Inc. In this episode, we discuss Victoria’s journey to becoming a Co-Owner, how she has balanced her passion for dance with her construction skillset, as well as some adv...2020-12-2926 minConstructing GreatnessThe Unstoppable Roofing Duo with Kevin Mayoros and Andy TerefenkoThey say two is better than one, and that sure is the case for M&T Roofing & Sheetmetal.Kevin Mayoros and Andy Terefenko are two young, energetic, and inspiring gentlemen that I have had the pleasure of working with before and have seen their success since starting their business two years ago. In this episode, Kevin and Andy describe each of their individually unique journeys into the construction industry which then led to the two of them starting their own business together. After working on enormous projects for EDA Contractors, Kevin and Andy decided t...2020-12-1535 minConstructing GreatnessBuilding From the Ground Up, with Anthony and John ZurzoloGreat businesses are rooted in humble beginnings. Joining me on the show today are brothers and business partners, Anthony and John Zurzolo, who are the sole founders and operators at Premier Window Cleaning. Having set out on their joint venture nearly seven years ago, Anthony and John took the extensive experience they’d developed over years of working in construction and maintenance to launch a successful business helping hundreds of clients across the Philadelphia area. We discuss how their business came to be what it is today, the dynamics they share as brothers runn...2020-12-0132 minConstructing GreatnessThe Glazier Industry with Patrick McIntyreHave you ever wondered what the job of a glazier entails? Installing glass tables, custom mirrors, and storefronts are just a few of the jobs that glaziers do. Who better to tell us more about this specific role in the trade industry other than my guest today, Patrick McIntyre, a glazier professional, and business owner. In this episode, Pat provides an insightful look at what a glazier’s role is. After working as a glazier in the trade industry for a couple of different companies, Pat felt a need to seek out a challenge. He started his...2020-11-1728 minConstructing GreatnessConstruction Lessons Crossing IndustriesConstruction isn’t always a one-way career. The lessons and professional experience the construction industry provides is sometimes the building blocks before another career. This is exactly the case for my guest in today’s episode, Don Martin. Although Don and I played baseball on the Temple University team together, both went into construction after college, both became podcast hosts, our careers turned out very different. After Don’s time in construction, he found his passion in educating, mentoring, investing, professional speaking, business coaching, and marketing specialists. In this episode, Don and I cover his background in cons...2020-11-0357 minConstructing GreatnessFinding Construction After Bio-Psychology with Mike TesterEveryone’s path looks different. Some people might know the field they want to work in from the moment they could talk and some people do a complete 180 career change later in life. Some people, like my guest today, find great success in taking a career risk that is completely separate from what their “plan” was. My guest today, Michael Tester, once a Bio-Psychology major, found his calling in the construction industry during his senior year of college and has since been extremely successful in his roles in architectural design, estimating, and project managing. Mike credits these v...2020-10-2029 minConstructing GreatnessProject Manager Turned Business Owner with Michael ParnellCareer changes are scary no matter what, but taking the leap to own your own business is a different level of risk. Many of us experience a variety of roles in our careers and some of these take place in companies that at first seem great, but then the dysfunctional work culture is uncovered. In today’s episode, my guest and business partner, Michael Parnell describes his journey to owning his own construction business. He dives into his roles on mega projects, working within a dysfunctional work culture, starting his own business, and his passion for non...2020-10-0659 minConstructing GreatnessWhat it Takes to Be Great & Stay Passionate with Chris “Handles” FranklinHow do you respond to moments of failure in your life? Failures are inevitable; no one can get everything right the first time. However, how you respond to failures is crucial to how you set yourself up for success in the future. For my friend Chris “Handles” Franklin, he always knew that he wanted to play basketball for the Harlem Globetrotters. The first time he tried out for the team, however, he was turned away and told that his window of opportunity was up. He persisted, kept working hard, and stayed passionate, and now Ha...2020-09-0828 minFire and SoulThe Podcast Accelerator Tell All | Behind the Scenes on Launch DayI’ve been saving this special pod for over six weeks, and am so excited I finally get to share it with you today!If you’ve been following my journey for a while, you know that Ginni Media and I have poured our heart and soul into our program The Podcast Accelerator. Even if you’ve never considered starting a podcast of your own, if there’s anything I’ve learned in my ten years of being on TV, seems everyone loves to get a glimpse behind the scenes. And that’s e...2020-09-0737 minConstructing GreatnessFrom Marines to Carpentry: How George Bergey Found Success in TradesThe path to a career in trades is not a one-size-fits-all trajectory. For my friend George Bergey, he didn't jump on the college train or head straight into trade school. Instead, he joined the Marines, built up some of his skills, and then began his career in trades years after his high school graduation. Now, he’s worked his way up from carpentry apprenticeship to working as the Project Superintendent for Hunter Roberts Construction Group. In this episode, George details his experience transitioning from Marines to the trades, including what it was like to t...2020-08-1842 minConstructing GreatnessDiversity In The Construction Industry: Steamfitting & Pursuing A College Degree with Kevin McGuiganThere are many different aspects that make the Construction industry what it is today. Over the years, attitudes towards pursuing a trade have shifted and as we learn more about the ins and outs of this amazing field, we inherently create a more welcoming environment for budding tradesmen. In today’s episode, I’m joined by a personal friend of mine and General Foreman at ‘Tracey Mechanical’, Kevin McGuigan! Kevin has had over thirty years in the business and offers his unique perspective as someone who has both worked in a trade for a number of years, as...2020-07-2840 minConstructing GreatnessCollege Alternatives: The Beauty of Trade SchoolsNowadays, colleges are so inherently overpriced that they make one wonder whether they’re worth it. It seems to be so drilled into some people’s heads that college is the only available option after high school.Truly, the world is full of opportunities not limited to a college degree. Options such as trade schools are equally as brilliant and show us that kids should not be pressured to go into college, but to follow their hearts instead.Today, I bring to you my personal experience in the trade world and why I pass...2020-07-1417 min