Hard Hat Talks is the podcast built for the concrete industry.
We sit down with concrete pros, company owners, and innovators to share real stories, growth strategies, and lessons learned on and off the job site. Whether you're pouring slabs or running a growing crew, tune in for raw conversations that inspire, challenge, and move the industry forward.
From Construction to Multiple Streams: How Zach Burick Is Expanding Beyond the Jobsite
Hard Hat Talks | Featuring Zach Burick
In this episode of Hard Hat Talks, we sit down with Zach Burick to dive into his journey through the construction industry.
Zach shares how he’s built his career, the lessons learned along the way, and what it really takes to grow in a demanding industry. He also opens up about his other ventures, giving insight into how he’s expanding his impact outside of his core business.
From business growth and industry challenges to opportunities beyond construction, this episode is packed with real perspective from someone who’s actively building on multiple fronts.
Topics include:
Building and growing in the construction industry
Lessons learned from real-world experience
Expanding into other ventures
Balancing multiple opportunities
The mindset required to keep pushing forward
🎙 Hard Hat Talks — Real conversations with the people building our industry.
30 Dec 2025
Jesus Ruiz - Building Concrete Business In Todays Market
Today, Show Host Chris Greiner is joined with our special guest: Jesus Ruiz In this episode, Jesus talks to us on how he got started in concrete and how his business has grown over the past years.
30 Dec 2025
Thomas Skeen - Insider Knowledge on Concrete Equipment Sales
Today, show Host Chris Greiner is joined with our special guest: Thomas Skeen. In this episode, Thomas shares how he got into concrete equipment sales and best practices for customers / dealers.
10 Nov 2025
Kenny Niemitalo - Concrete, Family, and the Ninja Warrior Mindset
Today, Show Hosts Samuel Velasco & Chris Greiner is joined with our special guest: Kenny Niematelo
In this episode, Kenny shares his family’s story — how they got into the concrete business and made their way to Trinity, North Carolina,
He talks about how, over the years, American Concrete has grown to specialize in large-scale warehouse construction and what it takes to retain talent.
Kenny also opens up about his experience competing on American Ninja Warrior — and what that journey taught him.
10 Nov 2025
Jason Speer - Reality of Building A Concrete Ready Mix Business
Today, Show Host Chris Greiner is joined with our special guest: Jason Speer
In this episode, Jason shares his story — how he got into the ready mix concrete business and how he overcame the industry challenges.
He talks about how, over the years, Forsyth Redi Mix has grown to 3 plants and a solid operations team.
10 Nov 2025
Pablo Romero & Cale Rivers - What it takes being in Concrete Equipment Sales
Today, Show Host Chris Greiner is joined with our guests: Pablo Romero & Cale Rivers
In this episode, Pablo and Cale share how they got their start in the concrete equipment sales world and what it’s taken to build a reputation for exceptional customer service. They also dive into the lessons they’ve learned along the way — the kind that have helped them serve their customers better.
23 May 2025
Luis & Julissa Torres with LTR Concrete | Journey on running a successful concrete business in the LA area.
In this episode, we sit down with Luis and Julissa Torres, the powerhouse duo behind LTR Concrete, to uncover the grit, vision, and strategy it takes to run a successful concrete business in the heart of Los Angeles. From humble beginnings to becoming a trusted name in their area, the couple share their journey of entrepreneurship, the challenges they faced breaking into a competitive industry, and how they’ve built a brand grounded in integrity, craftsmanship, and community.
10 Mar 2025
How EZ Footings Helps Concrete Contractors Save Time + Money With Their Forming Systems
In this episode of Hard Hat Talks, I sit down with Ernie Jessop from EZ Footings to discuss how their innovative concrete forming solutions are making foundation work faster, easier, and more efficient. We dive into the benefits of their system, how it compares to traditional methods, and why contractors are making the switch. Whether you're in the concrete industry or just curious about the latest in construction innovation, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss!
19 Feb 2025
Building a Career in Concrete: Insider Tips from a Specialty Foreman
In this episode of Hard Hat Talks, we sit down with a seasoned specialty foreman Peter Pekkela with Ace Avant Concrete Construction to break down what it takes to build a successful career in the concrete industry. From learning the trade to leading crews on complex projects, he shares real insights on the skills, mindset, and work ethic needed to move up in the field.
We cover the realities of the job, the challenges of leadership, and how to take advantage of career opportunities in concrete construction. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance, this conversation delivers practical advice from someone who’s been there.
19 Feb 2025
Video Marketing Basics for Concrete Contractors
Episode Title: Video Marketing Basics for Concrete Contractors
In this episode of Hard Hat Talks, we break down the essentials of video marketing for concrete contractors. From showcasing your craftsmanship to building trust with potential clients, video is one of the most powerful tools in the construction industry.
19 Feb 2025
The Truth About Safety in the Concrete Industry
In this episode of Hard Hat Talks, we’re diving deep into one of the most critical aspects of the construction industry—safety. Joining us is Leo Saldierna, the Director of Safety at Ace Avant Concrete Construction. He brings years of experience in keeping job sites safe and ensuring workers go home injury-free.
18 Feb 2025
Introduction to Hard Hat Talks Podcast
Hard Hat Talks is the go-to podcast for contractors, builders, and construction innovators looking to sharpen their business strategies and stay ahead in the industry. We dive into real conversations with industry leaders, uncover game-changing insights, and discuss the latest trends shaping the trades. Whether you're a seasoned pro in the or just getting started in the concrete Industry, Hard Hat Talks delivers straight-shooting advice, success stories, and marketing strategies that help you grow your brand and bottom line. Grab your hard hat—it’s time to build something great.
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