Hard Hat Talks Podcast

Samuel Velasco & Chris Greiner

0.0 (0)
Entrepreneurship

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.

Apr 15

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 industryLessons learned from real-world experienceExpanding into other venturesBalancing multiple opportunitiesThe mindset required to keep pushing forward🎙 Hard Hat Talks — Real conversations with the people building our industry.

44 min
12/30/2025

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.

46 min
12/30/2025

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.

1h 10m
11/10/2025

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.

1h 15m
11/10/2025

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.

45 min
11/10/2025

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.

36 min
05/23/2025

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.

35 min
03/10/2025

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!

25 min
02/19/2025

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.

25 min
02/19/2025

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.

4 min
02/19/2025

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.

14 min
02/18/2025

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.

1 min

12 Episodes

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.

Creator

Samuel Velasco & Chris Greiner
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

12
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© Hard Hat Talks Podcast 2025
Show Website

Hard Hat Talks Podcast