Welcome to the Dirt World Podcast powered by BuildWitt. If you're a leader in the Dirt World, you can tune in to access insights from veterans in your industry and expert leaders who have navigated workforce challenges. Learn strategies to better lead your team and develop, hire, and attract the workforce your organization needs to thrive.
Coal Mining, Fishing, and Continued Growth with Josh McKnight
Josh McKnight has been in the recycling and sustainability world long before they were used as cool buzzwords.
For the past five years, he has produced record numbers as head of Sales for Cuda Grit, which provides materials that help with wear protection for costly parts on Dirt World equipment.
Listen to Josh’s thoughts on leadership and his excitement for the upcoming Dirt World Summit as he and Jason chat through stories of underground coal mining and fishing trips.
20 Oct 2023
Focus on the Fundamentals with Evan Triggs
Before becoming Vice President of Earthwave Technologies, Evan Trigg played football at the collegiate level and chased the dream of getting into the NFL. Things took a different, but positive turn as he focused on building a minor-league football team in his local area.
Jason and Evan chat about why Evan signs off on his social media posts with “Coach,” they dig into how focusing on the fundamentals will help you learn, even if you’re not winning every competition.
You’ll learn how to grow as a construction leader, adopt new, helpful technology, and create positive change in your organization.
20 Oct 2023
The Power of Transparency in Leadership with Jamie Roush
From earning a physics degree, diving into sales, and shifting to engineering, Jamie Roush has gained a lot of perspectives and experience. Now, Jamie is the President and General Manager at Dynapac North America.
Jamie shares a story about how learning from a massive failure earlier in his career has helped shape him into the leader he is today and drive the success he and his team are having at Dynapac.
You’ll also hear about Dynapac’s new headquarters coming soon and its role in workforce development in the Dirt World.
Later, Jason and Jamie chat through what makes Dynapac’s equipment unique, what helps Jamie continue to grow as a leader, and the power of transparency in maximizing your leadership impact.
20 Oct 2023
Building the Bridge to Better Behavioral Health in Construction with Hamilton Baiden and Erin Craw
Join Jason as he discusses all things behavioral health with Hamilton Baiden, CEO and Erin Craw, Strategic Account Manager, of YouTurn Health.
You’ll get hear about Hamilton’s personal experience with behavioral health and why it drove him and a close friend to get YouTurn Health off the ground and how YouTurn could potentially help your team members become more resilient.
Hamilton and Erin both hit hard on what you can be doing as a leader to better care for your team’s behavioral health, why the traditional way of dealing with mental health and substance issues isn’t working, and what they’re doing about it.
They discuss the importance of breaking down stigmas in construction related to coping strategies, habits, and lifestyle choices.
2 Oct 2023
What’s a Digital Twin? + Tech in Construction With Andy Kaiyala - 014
Host Jason Richmond introduces Andy Kaiyala, VP of Construction Technology and Controls at WSB.
Andy has a 25-year career bidding and building complex infrastructure projects all over the world, including the Middle East and Australia. So he knows all about successful digital integration in construction.
In this episode, he shares how engineers support clients, owners, and contractors with advanced tech—like digital twins. (If that’s a new term for you, don’t worry; Andy breaks it down in the podcast.) And as always, Andy and Jason cap it off with a discussion of the industry’s future that you won’t want to miss!
2 Oct 2023
Honor, Respect, and Continuous Improvement with Jim Foley - 013
Jim Foley is CEO of Groundworks Safety Systems and EFI Attachments. He grew up working in construction with his dad, and he has 30 years of industry experience under his belt.
Jim talked with Dirt World Podcast host Jason Richmond about what he’s learned. Tune in to get Jim’s advice on creating a culture of honor and respect, why you should have zero tolerance for bad behavior regardless of skill, and giving your people ownership.
Plus hear how Jim’s companies are innovating (especially when it comes to trench box safety), developing their workforce, and enhancing their operations—so you can get insights that you can take back to your own business.
2 Oct 2023
Why We Need Better Diesel Diagnostics With Tyler Roberts - 012
In this episode, Jason Richmond sat down with Tyler Roberts, founder and CEO of Diesel Laptops.
Tyler grew up in northern Minnesota, surrounded by commercial trucks and Big Iron. While working at Carolina International Trucks as a service and parts manager, Tyler saw the challenges service managers and techs face. He realized they needed better diagnostics—and Diesel Laptops was born.
In this episode, you’ll hear the guys talk about:
Diesel Laptops’ diagnostic solutions
Why diesel techs need continuous education
The shortage of skilled diesel technicians—and what can be done to fill tens of thousands of open jobs
2 Oct 2023
Tires Matter + Motivating the Next Gen With Michael DeRuijter and Nick van Loon - 011
You probably don’t think much about tires. But without them, your trucks and heavy equipment aren’t going anywhere—and neither is your business.
Marketing manager Nick van Loon and founder/CEO Michael DeRuijter of Magna Tyres join Jason to talk about the latest innovations—like how tires are helping promote clean energy and how electric machines are shaking up the market.
Then, hear the guys’ take on the global workforce shortage. (Surprise: it’s not just the U.S. It’s worldwide!) Their idea for solving the problem? Teach young folks that the Dirt World creates everything they need to live the “ideal life” they’re chasing . . . and that it’s worth being part of.
2 Oct 2023
America’s Got Construction Talent With Aimee Conrad-Hill - 010
In this episode, Jason welcomes Aimee Conrad-Hill who’s the Executive Director of America's Construction Talent Network (ACTN), a nonprofit dedicated to building the people pipeline the construction industry needs by encouraging K-12 students and adults to consider construction careers.
Listen to Aimee share her journey into nonprofits and fundraising. Then, dive in as she and Jason discuss the need for individuals to learn continuously and embrace opportunities.
Last but not least, get Aimee’s advice for navigating government grants and working with nonprofits to help your company—plus Jason’s thoughts on leading change in the construction industry.
2 Oct 2023
Recruiting High Schoolers As Heavy Equipment Operators With Nate Hurn - 09
Nate Hurn’s here to chat all things simulation and recruitment. Nate is an Army veteran and the Commercial/Government Account Manager at Simformotion.
In this episode, he gives Jason the lowdown on why simulators are great for training operators. Plus, they discuss the SimScholars program and the importance of recruiting high school students. Teens are rethinking college, and it’s perfect timing. U.S. companies need to fill 825,000 operator jobs.
Tune in as Nate and Jason talk about how to attract young folks to meaningful careers as heavy equipment operators, how to start training programs, and different approaches to simulation.
2 Oct 2023
Cash Flow, Confidence, and Core Values With Scott Peper - 08
Scott Peper, CEO of Mobilization Funding, started his career in construction before switching to work in hospitality and sales. Now, Scott’s gotten back to his roots. His company helps contractors overcome one of their biggest obstacles: cash flow.
Join Scott and host Jason Richmond as they discuss how Mobilization Funding helps contractors keep cash flowing at key points in the project cycle. Plus, get Scott’s perspective on:
How contractors can improve at cash flow planning
How to go from timid individual to confident leader
How genuine leadership attracts great workers
Why core values matter
How to reshape the story of the industry that shapes our world
2 Oct 2023
Moving Dirt, Finding Mentors, and Making an Impact With Kevin Goldberg - 07
Think moving soil sounds easy? Think again! You’re standing there with a pen and paper, making hash marks and counting trucks until you can’t remember which ones you counted. That’s fine, if you want to pay for the same load of dirt twice.
Kevin Goldberg co-founded SoilFLO as a tech solution to help construction and environmental teams save time and reduce costs on tracking and compliance.
In this episode, Kevin sat down with BuildWitt COO Jason Richmond to talk about how storytelling changes perceptions of the industry, how investing in tech helps with recruiting, the importance of finding mentors, and who’s coming to the first-ever Ariat® Dirt World Summit.
11 Sept 2023
From Software to Construction: Parallels in Workforce Development with Alex Kraft - 005
Join Jason Richmond and Alex Kraft in another discussion on leadership, workforce development, and the much-anticipated Ariat Dirt World Summit. They break down the principles of "Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Willink and discuss how he’s shaped modern leadership styles. Learn the untold stories of the construction industry and the parallels between software engineers and heavy equipment technicians. If you’re interested in the Ariat Dirt World Summit's agenda and the power of networking, this episode is a must-listen.
11 Sept 2023
How Tech and Talent are Transforming the Industry with Tylor Foster and Jason Lambrick - 006
In this episode, Jason Richmond was joined by Tylor Foster, Director of Data Solutions, and Jason Lambrich, CEO of Dirt Prep Solutions, to discuss the challenges and opportunities within the construction industry. The trio emphasized the critical role of leadership, the importance of recognizing and valuing employees, and the potential of technology in attracting the younger generation. Tyler and Jason Lambrick also share about how technology is not only enhancing productivity but also making construction more appealing to the tech-savvy generation. Tune in for a sneak peek at the Ariat Dirt World Summit too!
11 Sept 2023
Crafting Company Culture Through Apparel: Darrin Moir from Ideon Gear - 004
In this episode, we're joined by Darrin Moir, the creative force behind Ideon Gear. Darrin discusses innovative construction-focused apparel, leadership lessons, and the role of quality merchandise in creating company culture. Learn the challenges leaders face in workforce development and how effective communication and recognition play key roles. Then, hear all about the upcoming Ariat Dirt World Summit and how Ideon Gear is helping improve the industry. If you’re looking for an episode on leadership, workforce, and branding in the construction world, this ones for you.
8 Sept 2023
From Midwest Dirt to Mustang Cat: Machinery Evolution with Cory Birch - 003
Join Jason Richmond, COO of Buildwit, as he sits down with Cory Birch, the Marketing GM at Mustang Cat. Cory shares his unique journey from playing in the dirt of Midwest Illinois to leading initiatives at Caterpillar Corporate and now, Mustang Cat. They emphasize the changing landscape of construction equipment, highlighting the rise of mini dozers and micro excavators. If you've ever wondered about the ins and outs of buying machinery, Cory offers a glimpse into the flexible options available.. Listen in for a conversation that captures the beauty of the construction world.
8 Sept 2023
Shaping the Future of Construction: A Conversation With Matt Williams of Triaxle - 002
In this episode, Jason sat down with Matt Williams, the CEO of Triaxle. They dove into the heart of leadership, innovation, and the fresh faces in construction. Listeners will get a glimpse of Triaxle's standout branding and hear how podcasts and social media have changed the game for businesses. Matt shared tales of challenges he faced and the growth he’s achieved. And hey, there was a teaser about the "Ariat Dirt World Summit," too. This one’s a must-listen!
6 Sept 2023
Leading by Example: Exploring Leadership and Workforce Dynamics With Sheldon Zitzmann - 001
Join Jason Richmond and Sheldon Zitzmann, Marketing Director for TigerTough as they talk about the challenges of finding new talent and the importance of building strong teams. Sheldon discussed the importance of open communication, tackling challenges for a better workplace and Tiger Tough's unique marketing. A must-listen for those interested in industry trends.
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