The Leadership and Learning Podcast

Randy Goruk
  • 5.0 (13)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Leadership and Learning Podcast is a professional development resource for the building materials industry. The target audience is for all levels of leaders in any industry. However, it is definitely the podcast for you if you're an emerging leader or involved in managing / leading anyone in the building material industry. You will benefit from this podcast if you're in manufacturing, distribution, sales, accounting, human resources, customer service or technical support or active. Industry associations, college and high school students will also benefit from the lessons shared in this podcast. We will bring you an abundance of valuable leadership content. We'll do this by bringing you recorded conversations on leadership lessons and insights from various building material industry leaders, industry legends and subject matter experts. On occasion, the host, Randy Goruk will share his leadership experiences and expertise by offering you relevant and actionable leadership tips to elevate your individual and team's performance. The Leadership and Learning Podcast is all about helping you become a more effective leader by learning from others in the building material industry.

  1. Episode #159 – Practical Innovation Advice with Neall Digert, Vice President of Innovation and Market Development with Kingspan Light and Air

    2D AGO

    Episode #159 – Practical Innovation Advice with Neall Digert, Vice President of Innovation and Market Development with Kingspan Light and Air

    In this episode, host Randy Goruk explores practical innovation advice for the construction and building materials industries. His guest is Neall Digert, Vice President of Innovation and Market Development with Kingspan Light and Air, a leading global manufacturer of high-performance daylighting and ventilation solutions.  Listeners will learn: A practical definition of innovation.  Why fear of change is the #1 barrier to innovation and how to start eliminating it.  How continuous improvement and innovation connect.   Ways to engage frontline employees so they see their role in innovation and actually want to contribute ideas.  Leadership behaviors that quietly kill innovation.   The important role leaders play if they want innovation to take hold.  How to innovate without overwhelming small teams.   What typically triggers companies to finally innovate and how to be proactive instead of reactive.  Why investing in people's learning, development, and industry involvement is essential to staying innovative and competitive.  How a reputation for innovation helps attract and retain top talent.    One simple innovation habit for leaders. If you lead in construction, building materials, or manufacturing and you want more innovation without huge budgets or complicated programs, this conversation will give you practical ideas you can apply now. Website: https://www.kingspanlightandair.us/ Neall Digert LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drnealldigert/

    28 min
  2. Episode #158 - Practical Advice for Recruiting and Retaining Employees with Ryan Hogan, Founder and CEO of Talent Harbor

    FEB 19

    Episode #158 - Practical Advice for Recruiting and Retaining Employees with Ryan Hogan, Founder and CEO of Talent Harbor

    In this episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk talks with Ryan Hogan, founder and CEO of Talent Harbor about how leaders in construction and building materials can recruit better employees and retain them longer. Ryan shares the three critical phases of effective hiring. You'll also learn: Why generic job descriptions fail How to build a simple blueprint for every role How to write posts that attract the right people and repel the wrong ones Low‑cost, high‑impact retention strategies A powerful interview question that reveals attitude, ambition, and fit  Early warning signs of disengagement and quiet quitting The critical impact of the first 72 hours and first 90 days of onboarding  Creative, practical recruiting tactics specific to the building trades and construction If you're a leader who's tired of constant turnover and wants to become a true talent magnet, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can start using this week. Website: https://talentharbor.com/ Ryan Hogan email: ryan@talentharbor.com

    31 min
  3. Episode #157 – Storytelling to Build Trust, Create Clarity, and Drive Real Change with Robert Kennedy III, CEO Kennetik Kommunications

    FEB 13

    Episode #157 – Storytelling to Build Trust, Create Clarity, and Drive Real Change with Robert Kennedy III, CEO Kennetik Kommunications

    In this episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk sits down with Robert Kennedy III, founder and CEO of Kennetik Kommunications, to explore how leaders can use storytelling to build trust, create clarity, and drive real change.  Robert shares practical ways leaders can use stories to:  Make safety meetings and toolbox talks more engaging and memorable  Strengthen trust with customers and prospects through testimonial-style stories  Motivate crews, improve retention, and connect daily tasks to a bigger purpose  You'll learn Robert's simple EASE framework (Energy – Ask – Story – Explain) for structuring a compelling message and his powerful 'cheat code.' You'll also learn: How to safely use personal and team stories. Avoid common mistakes with humor and references. How to build a personal "story bank" from everyday moments.  Additional strategies, techniques, and tips to help you be a great storyteller. If you've ever thought, "I don't have any good stories" or worried that your presentations put people to sleep, this episode will give you concrete tools to communicate with more impact on the jobsite, in the boardroom, and beyond.  Website: https://robertkennedy3.me/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertkennedy3/

    35 min
  4. Episode #156 - Team Success is Never About You with Leadership Coach Randy Goruk

    JAN 21

    Episode #156 - Team Success is Never About You with Leadership Coach Randy Goruk

    In this episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk explores a fundamental question faced by leaders: when should you give your team credit for accomplishments, and when (if ever) should you take credit yourself? Drawing on real coaching conversations and timeless leadership wisdom, Randy emphasizes why team success is never about the individual leader, but about collective achievement. Listeners will hear actionable tips on supporting and inspiring teams ·         Why humility is a crucial leadership trait that builds trust and respect. ·         Practical ways leaders support their teams. ·         How a leader's behind-the-scenes work contributes to overall team success. ·         That team achievements are a collective success. ·         Inspiring examples and quotes underscoring the value of humility in leadership. ·         Randy's personal mantra.   ·         Leadership tips on achieving a positive, engaged work environment.

    5 min
  5. Episode #155 - Leadership and Operational Discipline is Key to Employee Retention with Scott Peper, CEO Mobilization Funding

    JAN 15

    Episode #155 - Leadership and Operational Discipline is Key to Employee Retention with Scott Peper, CEO Mobilization Funding

    Join host Randy Goruk in this insightful episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast as he welcomes Scott Peper, CEO of Mobilization Funding. Together, they dive deep into operational discipline as an underrated tool for recruiting and retaining top talent in manufacturing, construction, and operations. Scott draws from his extensive experience to reveal how a well-organized, safe, and empowering workplace drives morale, productivity, and company growth. Listeners will discover practical leadership lessons and strategies for retaining employees.   Whether you're a plant manager, business owner, or team leader, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you build a high-performing and engaged workforce. Listeners will learn: Why operational discipline is crucial for employee retention and organizational success. The importance of leadership in creating a positive, safe, and empowering work environment. How clarity in standards, roles, and expectations drives engagement and reduces burnout. The role of workplace organization, cleanliness, and safety in communicating company values. How leaders can foster empowerment, encourage feedback, and involve employees in improvement. Practical strategies for managing growth responsibly, including cross-training and establishing strong systems/processes. The significance of genuine care from leaders and its impact on team morale and retention. Why "winning" and achieving excellence create a strong culture and competitive advantage. How to identify and address operational and leadership blind spots to avoid common pitfalls. Actionable tips for plant managers to connect employees' daily work with customer outcomes and company mission. Website: https://mobilizationfunding.com/ LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-peper-9387288/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MobilizationFunding

    29 min
  6. Episode #154 - Leadership Development Challenges and Solutions with Randy Goruk

    JAN 7

    Episode #154 - Leadership Development Challenges and Solutions with Randy Goruk

    This episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast offers a practical and inspiring roadmap for leaders seeking to make a greater impact in 2026 and beyond. Host Randy Goruk explores three core challenges facing today's leaders while sharing actionable strategies that drive real results. Listeners will discover how intentional leadership development, consistent engagement, and value-driven safety practices can transform organizations and teams. The episode also introduces coaching programs, interactive courses, and resources designed to support leaders at every stage. Listeners will learn: The three biggest pain points currently facing leaders and organizations. Why promoting technical experts without leadership training is risky. Practical ways leaders can improve retention and engagement in their teams. The role of consistent, present, and invested leadership in building positive work environments. How to shift safety messaging from rules-based to value-driven leadership. Solutions and actionable strategies for developing leaders at all levels through training and feedback. Resources available for leadership growth. The importance of small, consistent improvements in achieving effective leadership.

    9 min
  7. Episode #153 – How Comedy Skills Develop Leaders with Kevin Hubschmann, Founder Laugh. Events

    12/16/2025

    Episode #153 – How Comedy Skills Develop Leaders with Kevin Hubschmann, Founder Laugh. Events

    Join host Randy Goruk in this engaging episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, featuring industry innovator Kevin Hubschmann. Kevin shares lessons from his comedy and business career. Discover how humor, storytelling, and improv can transform the way leaders connect, inspire creativity, and handle tough conversations. Whether you're a seasoned executive or new to leadership, this episode delivers actionable insights, memorable stories, and practical strategies for thriving in today's dynamic workplace. Listeners will learn: How humor, storytelling, and comedy skills boost leadership effectiveness. The impact of active listening and empathetic communication on team dynamics. Why preparation is essential for both leaders and comedians, and how to improvise when plans change. How to handle mistakes and failures constructively and use them as learning opportunities. Methods to create a culture that embraces change, innovation, and learning from failure. Techniques for building trust and engagement within teams. Strategies for adapting to unexpected situations. Managing cynicism ("hecklers") in the workplace. Practical ways to apply improvisational skills to day-to-day leadership challenges. Kevin's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-hubschmann/ Website: https://www.laugh.events/ Newsletter: https://laughrx.laugh.events/

    26 min
  8. Episode #152 – Tackling the Bully Boss with Andy Regal

    12/09/2025

    Episode #152 – Tackling the Bully Boss with Andy Regal

    In this episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk welcomes award-winning media executive and author Andy Regal for a candid exploration of workplace bullying and toxic leadership. Drawing from Andy's extensive experience at top media organizations and his personal journey both as a target and leader, the conversation uncovers the realities of bullying across industries, the toll it takes on individuals and businesses, and the often-taboo nature of these issues. You will learn: How to recognize the signs of workplace bullying and toxic work environments The difference between bullying and harassment (and why legal protections differ) The impact of toxic leadership on productivity, employee well-being, and business performance How "bully bosses" operate and why they often target loyal, productive employees Real-life anecdotes illustrating the effects of workplace bullying Strategies for employees to protect their psychological safety and self-worth Practical steps victims can take to cope, find support, and heal from bullying The importance of open communication, listening, and accountability in leadership How leaders and organizations can repair trust and foster healthier work cultures Insights from Andy Riegel's personal journey and his book on thriving after workplace abuse With compelling stories, expert wisdom, and heartfelt guidance, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to build a workplace where people and organizations can truly thrive. Andy Regal's Website: https://andyregal.com/ Andy's Book is Surviving Bully Culture

    38 min
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5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

The Leadership and Learning Podcast is a professional development resource for the building materials industry. The target audience is for all levels of leaders in any industry. However, it is definitely the podcast for you if you're an emerging leader or involved in managing / leading anyone in the building material industry. You will benefit from this podcast if you're in manufacturing, distribution, sales, accounting, human resources, customer service or technical support or active. Industry associations, college and high school students will also benefit from the lessons shared in this podcast. We will bring you an abundance of valuable leadership content. We'll do this by bringing you recorded conversations on leadership lessons and insights from various building material industry leaders, industry legends and subject matter experts. On occasion, the host, Randy Goruk will share his leadership experiences and expertise by offering you relevant and actionable leadership tips to elevate your individual and team's performance. The Leadership and Learning Podcast is all about helping you become a more effective leader by learning from others in the building material industry.

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