About The Blueprint: Success Built Through Perseverance
T.J. Crosby, owner and CEO of Concrete Careers and EBS HR Consulting, pulls back the curtain to learn how our guests have built success through perseverance.
Kaid Nygren & John Paul Koch: College Students (Not Kids)
In this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, T.J. Crosby and Joel Galloway sit down with Kaid Nygren and John Paul Koch, two Texas State University Concrete Industry Management (CIM) students, to discuss how they found their way into the concrete industry, their experiences with internships and hands-on industry work, what they’re learning through CIM, and their perspectives on attracting the next generation of talent. They also share their career goals and hopes for the future, highlighting why college students entering the industry deserve to be treated as the future professionals they are, not just kids.
Music licensed from PremiumBeat
Track: Orange Sunset – One Wave
Code: LFXMSDZY7M2GOM5O
1 Sept 2026
Martin Willoughby: Building the Future, Respecting the Past
In this episode of The Blueprint, we sit down with Martin Willoughby, CEO of Command Alkon, to explore his unconventional journey from law, technology and cybersecurity into the concrete industry. Martin shares his perspective on leading a 50-year-old company, balancing the lessons of the past with the need to embrace change, and where technology and AI are taking the concrete industry next. We also dig into leadership, innovation, the challenges facing today’s industry, and what the next decade could look like for concrete and the people who build it.
Music licensed from PremiumBeat
Track: Orange Sunset – One Wave
Code: LFXMSDZY7M2GOM5O
8 Aug 2026
Dr. Ryan Penlerick: Delivering Your Next Batch of Concrete Leaders
In this episode of The Blueprint Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ryan Penlerick, Program Director of the Concrete Industry Management program at Texas State University, to explore how CIM is helping build the next generation of concrete industry leaders. Ryan shares insights from his decades in construction, explains what makes CIM different from traditional construction management programs, and discusses the program's impact on workforce development, industry partnerships, and career opportunities. We also talk about leadership, the future of concrete, and why investing in the next generation may be one of the most important things our industry can do.
8 Jul 2026
Wendy Wilson: Find Where You Belong
In this episode of The Blueprint, Wendy Wilson shares how unexpected career changes, personal loss, and major life transitions ultimately led her to a place of greater purpose, balance, and fulfillment. From rebuilding her career after leaving a company she had called home for more than a decade to discovering the importance of aligning your values with your work, Wendy offers powerful insights on leadership, resilience, and knowing who you are beyond your title. Along the way, she discusses mentoring others, navigating change with confidence, finding love later in life, and why true success isn't measured by what's written after your name, but by the impact you have on the people around you.
22 Apr 2026
Chad Curtis: The Power of Authentic Leadership
Join us as Chad Curtis shares his inspiring journey from sports architecture to the concrete industry, emphasizing the importance of values, perseverance, and faith in career transitions. Discover practical insights on leadership, organizational culture, and personal growth in this engaging conversation.
19 Feb 2026
Emily Branum: From Billable Hours to Building Culture
In this episode, T.J. Crosby and Emily Branham delve into the transformative power of self-awareness and courage in career advancement, exploring how these traits fuel successful pivots and leadership in uncertain times. Emily shares her journey from law to corporate leadership, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, resilience, and investing in oneself. The discussion highlights practical frameworks like success sprints and profiles, and the role of AI in revolutionizing industries. This episode is a must-listen for professionals eager to navigate change, build influence, and craft a blueprint for success in a digital-first world.
6 Jan 2026
Chad Arpe: From Oil & Gas to Precast
Summary
In this conversation, T.J. Crosby and Chad Arpe discuss Chad's career journey from the oil and gas industry to construction, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, servant leadership, and perseverance through challenges. They explore the significance of company culture and the entrepreneurial mindset in leadership, as well as the pressing issues of talent acquisition and collaboration in the construction industry. Chad shares valuable insights and advice for building a successful career blueprint.
1 Dec 2025
Angela Fabris: Your Best, Not Burnt Out
In this conversation, Angela shares her journey of self-acceptance, career development, and the importance of mentorship. She discusses the challenges of burnout and the significance of investing in personal health and growth. The discussion also delves into the impact of AI on recruitment and the necessity of creating a supportive work environment that prioritizes employee well-being. Angela emphasizes the importance of career pathing and how organizations can retain talent by nurturing their employees. Ultimately, she encourages listeners to embrace their unique journeys and focus on personal growth.
10 Nov 2025
Manny Tejano: Courageous Pursuit of the Dream
In this episode, T.J. Crosby engages with Manny Tejano, founder of Rocket Start, discussing his journey from IT to entrepreneurship in the construction industry. Manny shares insights on leveraging technology for employee engagement, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of attracting the next generation to blue-collar jobs. The conversation emphasizes the need for innovation and community support in the construction sector, highlighting how gamification can enhance workforce motivation and retention.
21 Oct 2025
Julie Garbini: Advancing the Future of Concrete
In this conversation, Julie Garbini shares her unexpected journey into the concrete industry, highlighting the importance of mentorship, perseverance, and financial investments in shaping her career. She discusses the challenges of attracting talent to the industry and emphasizes the need for a positive image of concrete as a sustainable solution. Julie offers practical advice for success, focusing on lifelong learning and taking calculated risks, while also recommending resources for personal and professional growth.
9 Sept 2025
Ron Carlson: One Step Back... Two Steps Forward
In this engaging conversation, Ron Carlson shares his unique career journey from being a correctional officer to a quality control expert in the concrete industry. He discusses the challenges he faced, particularly during the COVID pandemic, and emphasizes the importance of collaboration and mentorship in leadership. Ron offers valuable advice for young professionals, highlighting the need to start from any position to learn the industry. He also addresses the pressing challenges of hiring and retention in the industry and the role of technology in shaping the future.
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
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