Episodes
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Should 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 of his own business, The FGX Group. Frank also talks about how he handles work-life balance, offers practical advice and inspiration for overcoming obstacles and achieving success in the trades, and much more.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Frank talks about his present and role at The FGX Group (2:00)How did the construction industry get into Frank's life (4:20)Choosing a career in civil engineering (6:10)A bit about Frank's journey in the construction industry (10:00)The never-ending learning aspect of construction (18:20)Frank shares his thoughts on work-life balance (24:00)Connect with Frank Gallagher:
The FGX GroupLinkedInEmail: [email protected]Let's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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"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 Fournier
In 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 the co-founder and former CEO of Jobsite123.com, the industry's first search and qualify engine, acquired by The Blue Book Building & Construction Network.
Throughout this episode, you'll hear about Coty's journey into construction and her brilliant strategy to pave her path in the space without having a family background in the construction industry. You'll also hear Coty's thoughts on staying true to one's passion when choosing a career, the value of teaching and mentoring in construction, and how to succeed as a minority in the industry.
Additionally, we talk about her book, "Inside Commercial Construction's MVPs," a true gem still relevant after a decade, her eagerness to improve herself constantly, and much more.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
A bit about Coty's first steps in the construction industry (4:30)If you pick architecture for the money, you'll end up in construction (10:00)Coty talks about her strategy to add to her well-roundedness (16:20)Launching a .com before it was cool, growing it, and then selling it (24:00)Coty and her superpower of cloning herself (35:40)Is going to college a good idea? Coty shares her thoughts on education's ROI (43:00)Connect with Coty Fournier:
WebsiteLinkedInFacebookBook: Coty Fournier - Inside Commercial Construction's MVPs: 7 reasons why they get promoted faster, make more money, and enjoy a seemingly unfair advantage over everybody else.Let's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Missing episodes?
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Have 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 loans by pairing those with needs with those with means.
Throughout this episode, Chris talks about his unconventional path to success, from being booted out of college to becoming Vice President of HSBC, oscillating between wealth and scarcity, and losing everything and gaining it back several times. We talk about his podcast, which has over 850 episodes, the circumstances that forced him to rebrand the pod, and how his adaptability helped him get something positive out of that setback.
Additionally, Chris shares his thoughts on reaching happiness and fulfillment, nurturing a healthy and long-lasting marriage, friendships, networking, entrepreneurship, and much more.
Some Questions I Ask:
Can you talk about your college days? (5:20)How did you get to work with mortgages after your time at HSBC? (22:00)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
How learning about sales and leadership helped Chris (7:20)The fantastic story of how Chris talked his way into HSBC (13:00)About one of the more critical moments in Chris's life (19:00)Chris talks about the link between generosity and success (27:50)Happiness comes from pursuing a cause, not from crossing the finish line (37:30)Connect with Chris:
WebsiteInstagramText him the word "Daily" at 310-421-0416 to receive a Positive Money Mantra every morningLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Did 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 conversation, you'll hear about Jim's passion for taking things apart to understand how they worked, how he progressed from mechanical engineer to project manager to working with commissioning, and finally, his position as a Director at Bala. Jim also talks about the several certifications he worked on to "put his money where his mouth is" and keep growing as a professional, his love for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, how it stimulates not only his physical but his mental health, and shares his thoughts on the choice every kid faces after finishing high school.
Some Questions I Ask:
When you were a teenager, did you know you wanted to be an engineer? (4:00)Could you talk about your consulting experience at Polaris? (19:40)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Jim talks about his first steps in engineering (8:40)About Jim's passion for working hands-on (16:50)What is commissioning? Jim talks about his first experiences in the field (23:30)A bit about Bala's culture (32:00)Jim's thoughts on "doing hard things every day for an easy life" (40:00)Jim shares terrific advice for high schoolers thinking about joining the construction industry (45:10)Connect with Jim:
LinkedInLet's Connect!
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"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 in Business Administration, compared to what he learned from it in real life, and his passion for endurance sports. We also talk about staying motivated to care for our health and fitness, the teaching experience of running a business, and the importance of keeping our minds busy and constantly growing.
Additionally, Kieran shares tips and advice for young people who are uncertain about their career path, talk about how he became a Digital Identity Specialist, and much more.
Some Questions I Ask:
You have a Bachelor's of Business Administration, Logistics, Materials, and Supply Chain management. What did you want to do with that degree? (6:00)When do you think you realized you wanted to be an entrepreneur? (18:40)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
A lot of kids get into college without knowing what they want to do with their lives (10:10)Running a business is a teaching experience (12:40)A bit about Kieran and his passion for endurance sports (23:10)What are you really saying when you say: I don't have time for that (30:20)What is The Garage Gym, who is it for, and how it works (36:10)The importance of finding like-minded people (43:00)Kieran's advice for young people still looking for a path to follow (51:30)Connect with Kieran:
The Garage Gym websiteInstagramKieran's InstagramLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Is 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 and that people were behind these decisions. I just thought they were people with good taste and scents and people without it." - Shira Charles.
Throughout our conversation, we explore the links between entrepreneurship and identity, Shira's experiences acknowledging her ADHD, and how she reframed her identity around it. We also talk about Shira's passion for impacting the community, her entrepreneurship lessons, hobbies, advice for the youth, and so much more.
Some Questions I Ask:
You were an Executive Assistant and Design Coordinator. Were you into design before that? (5:40)Please talk more about your personal mission to highlight others. (10:40)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The moment Shira realized being a problem-solver was her superpower (7:00)About Shira's identity. Dealing with ADHD (15:20)Starting a business with zero experience in the field and turning it into a successful company (18:00)A bit about Shira's passion for making a positive impact (25:50)Shira's advice for young people about entrepreneurship (30:50)Connect with Shira:
WebsiteLinkedInInstagramLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Securities 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, LPL Financial Advisor, and former kicker and National Champion with The Ohio State University NCAA football team. Although Russell started playing football halfway through his senior year in high school, he accepted replacing an injured kicker last minute in a football match. At the end of that year, he walked on the Ohio State football team in 2010 as a kicker and majored in Marketing four years later.
He believes putting ourselves under stressful situations is the best way of creating resilience and the path to personal and professional growth.
We had a fantastic conversation about self-confidence, how to use challenges and stressful situations to elevate ourselves, and the importance of having a curious mind. Russell also talks about his decision to become a speaker, how seeking discomfort has helped throughout his career, his future plans as a podcaster and writer, and so much more.
Some Questions I Ask:
Talk a little bit about why you went to Ohio State and why you took the major that you did (5:20)Could you define the Walk-on Mentality? (13:40)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About how Russell got into football (5:50)The triple win Russell discovered in financial planning (10:00)Russell talks about the doors that hard work opens (16:20)How public speaking fits into Rusell's life (20:20)The importance of seeking stressful and uncomfortable situations (22:50)Russell talks a bit about his future plans (28:50)Connect with Russell:
LinkedInInstagramTwitterLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Intentional 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.
We had a fantastic conversation about Jessica's journey before and after joining the construction industry, her thoughts on formal education, and why so many people struggle with their career choices. She also talks about the difference between being in marketing and sales, her passion for relationship building, how she ended up in Gilbane, and so much more.
Some Questions I Ask:
What did you want to do after college with a psych degree? (4:17)Talk about the difference between sales and marketing? (12:52)If you want to compare how powerful networking is, compared to a college degree, how would you rate the two? (24:06)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About Jessica's first steps into the financial world (6:41)The moment Jessica realized she was made to create connections (10:13)A pivotal moment in Jessica's career (17:42)How vital culture and communication are for a company to thrive (25:59)The importance of building your network in a valuable way (34:39)Resources:
Gilbane websiteConnect with Jessica:
LinkedInLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Despite 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 trades. We delve into his childhood, growing up and playing at construction sites, and waiting anxiously for the summer to come, so he would spend the entire day with his father framing houses and roofing.
We also talk about his decision to pursue a career in Construction and his transition from the communications realm. He shares valuable advice on making decisions based on our passions, the importance of being open to opportunities, and more.
Some Questions I Ask:
Did you know what you wanted to do or what you wanted to be when you graduated high school? (4:06)How did the opportunity of working at Coretrust Capital Partners present itself? (20:37)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About Chris' first job as a Marketing Coordinator (6:30)Chris' first encounter with a Construction Industry's old-school guy (9:23)From Senior Project Manager to Executive Director at Brandywine Realty Trust (17:59)The luckiest guy I'll ever meet (20:39)Never stop following your passion (32:41)Resources:
Coretrust Capital Partners, LLC websiteConnect with Chris:
LinkedInEmail: [email protected]: 610-635-8643Let's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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If 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 his own thing in 2004. Jeff shares how he felt while beginning Capital Concrete, what he focused on to assemble his team, and how he evolved as a business owner.
Plus, we talk about his passions outside of work, what advice he would give to young people interested in joining the industry, and more.
Some Questions I Ask:
Did you always know that you were leaning toward construction? (1:46)In 2004 you established Capital Concrete. Could you talk about your emotions and mindset that year doing your own thing? (9:50)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About Jeff's decision to leave college and join the trades (2:31)How different it was to work in the construction industry in the 90s (4:59)The lessons learned in almost 20 years as a business owner (12:24)Jeff's advice to those thinking about joining the trades (19:12)Resources:
Capital Concrete websiteConnect with Jeff
LinkedInLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Would 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 became an ironworker at 23. We also talk about how he got into demolition, why he's so passionate about it, what helped him start his own demolition company, and how those days were before his business saw daylight.
Some Questions I Ask:
Could you talk a bit about how you got into the construction industry? (2:48)COVID has opened up an opportunity for you, and you took that chance. How do you feel after two years of starting your own company? (6:37)When did you start investing in equipment for your company? (12:27)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About Ron's background and how he developed his passion for the trades (3:01)The biggest lessons running a company has taught Ron so far (6:51)Why demolition is so appealing for Ron (9:39)How challenging it was to start his own company (11:46)A bit about Ron's life out of work (15:27)What do you need to create your own company in the construction industry (16:29)Resources:
BellCo Demolition websiteBellCo Demolition Phone: +1 856-484-4017BellCo Demolition FacebookBellCo Demolition Email: [email protected]Let's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Being 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 Academy.
In this episode, Mike shares his journey from the Army to the trades and then back to public service. We talk about his experiences as a first responder, the pros and cons of such a taxing activity, and his drive to prioritize passion over profit.
We also delve into Mike's hobbies, his unique philosophy of dealing with life's curve balls, and much more.
Some Questions I Ask:
How you got into the Union and became an electrical journeyman? (3:07)In August of 2012, you became an instructor for the ATF on explosive safe handling and disposal. Could you talk a bit about that? (7:12)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About Mike's decision to work in the trades (4:13)How is it like being a first responder when tragedies hit (10:12)The benefits of setting the bar as high as we can (13:39)Some of Mike's passions and hobbies (17:48)Why putting passion before profit always pays off (20:29)Connect with Mike:
LinkedInLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Although 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 industry's most innovative and influential minds. When Ed started EDA Contractors, they were roofing contractors exclusively, but his creative personality turned the company into a complete exterior envelope contractor and an industry leader.
In this episode, we learn more about Ed and his upbringing, why he decided to go to college, his first steps in the construction industry, and why he decided to get into roofing. We delve into the nuts and bolts of Ed's approach to business and leadership, which led EDA Contractors to rank three years in a row in the top 5 of the Top Workplace in Philadelphia, a recognition given by the Philadelphia Inquirer.
In addition, we chat about Ed's passions outside of work, his best advice for the youth interested in joining the trades, and much more.
Some Questions I Ask:
As a kid, before college, were you a creative kid? And where did you see yourself taking your career? (5:03)
After you graduated, what got you into the roofing business? (9:10)
How do you manage the pieces of construction you're not responsible for in a job? You know, glazing systems, curtain walls, storefronts (17:09)
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Ed talks about what rocketed his entrepreneurial spirit during his childhood (6:09)
Ed explains his company's 10 years warranty policy (12:13)
Ed dives into the importance of emotional intelligence in his approach to leadership (22:09)
Ed and Nicholas discuss the importance of encouraging and preparing employees to become independent and start their own thing if they want to (26:46)
Ed describes what it means for him to be successful and what he is aiming to do as a company leader in the following years (36:15)
Ed shares valuable insights and advice for young people interested in developing a career in the trades (41:40)
EDA Contractors Inc. Resources:
website
Instagram
Twitter
Facebook
LinkedIn
Connect with Ed:
LinkedIn
Let's Connect!
LinkedIn
Instagram
Twitter
MPC Builders - Website
MPC Builders - Facebook
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Although 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 meet, and the growth opportunities those experiences represented for me from a personal and professional standpoint.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About some of the changes the pandemic produced on me (2:12)How I met Kyle Depiesse and the journey we started almost at the same time (4:16)About my experiences at Lambeau Field and how they've changed me (6:55)The importance of developing meaningful connections and keeping an avid student's mindset (10:22)Resources:
Book: Kyle Depiesse - Guys' Trip: How to Refocus on What Matters MostLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Adaptability 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 growth thanks to a deeply rooted policy of delivering quality service and creating excellent customer experiences.
Throughout our conversation, we delve into David's journey in the industry, his experiences at Dartmouth College, where he got his engineering degree, and his decision to go to night school to get an MBA in business while working full-time at Oliver FP&S.
We also talk about the company's values and culture, their outstanding results by making culture a priority, and David's approach to change and to expand the family business.
Some Questions I Ask:
When you were a kid, did you always know you wanted to get into construction or engineering? (2:37)Could you talk about the importance of culture in your business? (13:14)Could you share your thoughts on the advantages of working in the trades? (20:39)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About David's first steps in Oliver FP&S (5:02)David talks about the process of becoming the president of Oliver FP&S (6:47)David explains how prioritizing culture served the company throughout the years (14:26)David describes the company's approach to change (16:08)David shares tips and advice for young people on how to join the trades (28:10)Resources:
Oliver Fire Protection & Security websiteConnect with David:
LinkedInEmail: [email protected]Let's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This 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 has over 25 years of experience in commercial building construction, working for projects in every industry and ranging up to $500M.
In this episode, we go through Dan's fantastic career in the industry and his passion for not only changing the landscape and the skyline but also for changing people's lives with his work. We delve into the more challenging parts of Dan's journey, having faced losing his money, savings, and job at once.
We also discuss why he decided to go back to school, his favorite parts of the industry, and what it can provide, and he shares his thoughts on the importance of guidance and counseling for young kids thinking of their future.
Some Questions I Ask:
You went to Drexel University. Did you finish school? (2:26)How did you and your wife get into Commercial Doors, Frames, and Hardware? (11:13)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Dan talks about his first steps in the trades (2:44)Dan describes his experiences growing up in the industry and learning about new businesses (4:15)Dan talks about some of the toughest challenges he faced as a builder (6:03)A new beginning. Dan talks about his decision to buy an existing business and the many moving parts of the process (11:42)Dan reflects on the importance of guidance and shares advice for young people thinking of building their careers in the trades (17:48)Resources:
Commercial Doors, Frames & Hardware websiteConnect with Dan:
LinkedInLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Kristen 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 upbringing and early passion for entrepreneurship and the construction industry. We delve into her relationship with corporate America and how she discovered she wasn't built for that life.
Kristen explains the need for consulting in the AEC Industry, their services at KRAE Consulting, and the power of connections. We also talk about Kristen's relationship with Rae Ripple, the fantastic story of how they met, and how Kristen became Rae's agent.
Some Questions I Ask:
Both your parents are engineers, mechanical engineers, correct? (3:04)You actually were looking at psychology in College, right? And then you switched over to marketing and business. Could you talk a bit about that? (6:31)There's a quote in your bio: "Rub some dirt in it" What does that mean to you? (20:56) How did you become an agent of Rae Ripple? (33:25)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About how Kristen transitioned from Psychology to Marketing (7:01)The moment Kristen realized she wasn't a corporate girl and didn't do well with micromanaging (15:26)Kristen talks about her relationship with her family and why she considers herself the black sheep (22:13)Kristen describes her relationship with LinkedIn (30:06)Kristen shares a bit of what they're involved in at KRAE Consulting at the moment (39:01)Kristen talks about the possibilities we can build for ourselves once we realize we can achieve almost anything we put our minds into (45:02)Resources:
KRAE Consulting websiteBook: Robert Green - The 48 Laws of PowerConnect with Kristen:
LinkedInInstagramLet's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Soon 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 this episode, from the software he developed inspired by his father's job to the later backlashes to his success with Sidecar. We delve into how important it was for Andre to count on his family's support and how his tendency to do things his own way helped him become a successful "multipreneur."
We also talk about the effort and commitment it takes to create a successful company, which is never represented in news headlines, and the importance of niching down to achieve success. In the end, Andre shares invaluable advice for young people interested in becoming entrepreneurs.
Some Questions I Ask:
When you started college, did you have any inclination to be an entrepreneur? (7:59)You started MediLync, and some years after, Omeda, could you talk a bit about that? (10:17)You were recently acquired by Quartile. Talk a bit about the process of that acquisition and how that transition has been for you (30:35)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
About Andre's experiences at college and how and why he decided to stop his academic formation (2:59)MediLync, the software that would start everything for Andre (4:03)Andre talks about the challenges of growing an agency (13:58)Some of the lessons Andre got from his not so successful endeavors (21:40)Andre talks about how it was for him the acquisition process (34:18)Andre shares his thoughts on the entrepreneurial journey and what young folks should focus on if they want to go through it (53:18)Resources:
Quartile websiteConnect with Andre:
LinkedInTwitterLet's Connect!
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We 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, that they had to create a Junior Firefighter training program.
Throughout our conversation, Erin talks about his career as a firefighter, the up and downs of his profession, describes a typical day at the Fire House, and how COVID impacted the Willingboro Fire Department. We also talk about the sensations that 9/11 produced on him as a firefighter, the call he attended that marked him forever, the recent promotion he got, and his thoughts on what it means to be a good leader. In addition, we delve into Erin's passion for baseball and his retirement plans, and he kindly shared some advice for the young ones interested in becoming firefighters.
Some Questions I Ask:
What did you do after high school? (5:02)How did COVID impact you guys? Could you talk about your experiences through that process as a first responder? (20:00)Can you share some of your fire rescue experiences? Which one sticks out the most for you? (31:21)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
How Erin decided he wanted to be a firefighter (6:58)About Erin's experiences as a volunteer fireman (11:08)Erin talks about 9/11 and how particularly rough 2001 was for firefighters (25:48)Erin debunks some myths about firefighters' routines at the Fire House (33:25)The importance of being a leader that gets their hands dirty and doesn't feel they are above any duty at the Fire House (41:05)Connect with Erin:
LinkedInInstagramEmail: [email protected]Let's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Knowing 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 the Co-president of UTV Masters. This company produces cool-looking six and eight-wheelers called ARGO. ARGOs fill the gap between recreational quads and heavy off-road equipment; they climb, crawl, or swim anywhere while carrying the equipment and tools needed for any job. He is also the Co-president of Diggerland. This out-of-this-world recreational park allows families to put their hands on operation machinery like skid-steer loaders, backhoes, tractors, mini dumpers, and small excavators. Yan is also the Principal at Sahara Sam's, an indoor and outdoor water park.
Yan shared his passion for the construction industry since he was a little kid, his love for building things, and the many challenges he overcame during his career. We delve into how COVID impacted Yan's businesses, how they decided to start Diggerland in the US, and the expansions and new attractions they plan for the park. Yan also shared his experiences at NJ with the difficulties of making projects get out of the paper. He talks about his hobbies, how he balances his personal and professional life and advises young people thinking of joining the construction industry.
Some Questions I Ask:
Did you always know that you wanted to get into construction? (5:14)You worked for Sambe Construction Company for 20 years; what made you leave in 2014? (9:59)You and your brother became co-owners of Sahara Sam's. Correct? Could you talk a bit about how that happened? (16:12)In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The story of Yan Contractor from 9th grade (7:29)Yan shares the story of how Sambe Construction Company, the family business, was born and evolved through the years (14:29)When and how Diggerland started in Yan's life (17:17)Yan talks about how COVID impacted them (25:21)Yan shares his thoughts on why young people should think of joining the construction industry (39:23)Resources:
Diggerland USA websiteUTV Masters websiteSahara Sam's websiteConnect with Yan:
LinkedInEmail: [email protected]Let's Connect!
LinkedInInstagram TwitterMPC Builders - WebsiteMPC Builders - FacebookHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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