CONEXPO – CON/AGG Podcast: Construction Business Insights For Contractors

CONEXPO-CON/AGG
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CONEXPO – CON/AGG Podcast: Construction Business Insights For Contractors

Perspectives from construction business owners, heavy construction equipment experts and construction technology providers.

  1. 18 NOV

    3 Tips For Running a Construction Business with Matt Bachtel

    Matt Bachtel of Bachtel Excavating joins Taylor today to discuss his journey from one man and a truck to a thriving multi-generational business. Matt shares his conservative approach to growth, emphasizing the importance of consistent, meticulous work, and open communication with his team. He reveals the surprising risks of staying small, the challenges of balancing family life with entrepreneurship, and the critical roles that both his wife and his right-hand man, Keith, have played in his success. Matt also offers invaluable insights into attracting and retaining young talent in the trades, fostering a positive company culture, and adapting to the ever-evolving landscape of the construction industry. Do you fear taking risks in your business? Are you concerned about attracting and retaining talent? Matt's conservative approach and focus on consistency created a company culture that attracts young talent. Today, he shares how open communication and a supportive environment have been key, and how, by prioritizing these values, you, too, can build a resilient business. Download the FREE Step-by-Step Guide to Recruiting & Retaining the Best Workers: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/recruit 🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS: ⚠️ FEAR OF FAILURE [07:44]: "It's rare that somebody can come in with very little experience and take on all that debt and have it work out." Hear Matt's perspective on leveraging debt responsibly and avoiding the pitfalls of overextending your business. ✨ DESIRE FOR GROWTH [22:20]: "Word of mouth, social media...we've gotten the reputation as being the place to send your son or daughter...a safe place to send that kid..." Discover how building a positive company culture can attract the next generation of skilled workers. ⚡ PRACTICAL TIP [29:47]: "We collect good data and job costs, but we don't do enough post job analysis...to really use all that good data and apply it to the next job." Learn how to implement post-project reviews to improve efficiency and profitability. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - Managing a Family Business and Balancing Growth 02:03 - Mitigating Risk in Business Growth 03:17 - Overcoming Fear of Risk When Starting a Business 05:19 - Determining When to Rent vs. Buy Equipment 07:19 - Managing Debt and Equipment Maintenance Costs 09:59 - Balancing Conservatism and Calculated Risk-Taking 12:14 - Defining Effective Leadership Qualities 15:19 - Reflecting on the First Year in Business and Early Growth 17:24 - Making the Decision to Hire the First Employee 18:28 - Navigating the 2008 Financial Crisis 20:47 - Maintaining Business Diversity (Commercial and Residential) 22:18 - Attracting and Retaining Young Talent in the Trades 23:45 - Building a Positive Company Culture 26:04 - Communicating Finances with Your Team 28:01 - Conducting Post-Project Analysis for Improvement 30:30 - Balancing Productivity with Team Debriefing and Training 31:30 - Long-Term Business Planning and Succession Strategies 35:11 - Balancing Work and Family Life as a Business Owner 37:46 - Supporting Employees' Well-being and Mental Health 40:31 - Embracing Change and Adapting to Industry Evolution LINKS: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights CONNECT WITH MATT BACHTEL: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-bachtel-927a2547/ Bachtel Excavating: https://www.bachtelexcavating.com/ #excavating #leadership #culture

    39 min

  2. 4 NOV

    Why Your Employees Are IMPATIENT (and How to Turn It Into an Advantage)

    This week, Taylor sits down for an informative and inspiring conversation with Nic Parish, VP of Contracting and Operations at Burns Dirt Construction, and a key player in FORGE Your Path, a nonprofit dedicated to encouraging the next generation to explore careers in the trades. In this fascinating episode, Taylor and Nic dive into the importance of trades education, the challenges of running a family business, and how to create pathways for young people to develop meaningful careers in construction. Nic shares his journey, from growing up in the family business to helping launch programs that teach essential skills like operating heavy equipment and leadership. He and Taylor go on to discuss the evolution of construction work, dealing with the pressure of running a company, and the need to instill leadership qualities in new generations to fill the growing skills gap. Alongside that, our special guest’s passion for mentoring the next wave of tradespeople through FORGE Your Path and the Burns Built Academy shines through as he recounts the impact these initiatives have had on his community and industry. Nic’s dedication to empowering young people, supporting mental health, and fostering a culture of continuous growth is on full display here today, serving as a powerful reminder that investing in people is the key to long-term success in any industry. Episode Highlights: Challenges of running a family business Importance of leadership and mental well-being for success FORGE Your Path: nonprofit introducing students to trades Burns Built Academy: technical and leadership training for employees Continued education to close the construction skills gap Supportive, growth-focused company culture Addressing mental health in leadership roles Emphasizing leadership development alongside technical skills Key Takeaways: "You can only make a bulldozer work as well as the person running it. Good people make good machines effective.” "FORGE Your Path was born out of us asking, 'What are we going to do about it?' Instead of just complaining about the labor shortage." "It's not that the next generation is lazy; they just want to learn and progress faster." "I realized that I wasn’t trapped by my business. I had the opportunity to impact the lives of 300 people and their families." "We’re not just training students on how to operate machinery; we’re teaching them how to be leaders." "Leadership is more important than skills because leadership is what drives the work forward." "FORGE Your Path isn’t about making a profit—it’s about creating opportunities for the future." "The construction industry isn’t just about holding a stop sign on the side of the road; it’s about building a future." "We have to flip the traditional education model—learning doesn’t stop when you leave school. We’re building a school within our company." "Mental health is something we need to talk about more, especially in our industry, where the pressure can be overwhelming." As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/ Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Nic Parish: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicparish/ Burns Dirt: https://www.burnsdirt.com/

    32 min

  3. 21 OCT

    Talking Heavy Equipment, with James Simmons of Montana Excavation & Utilities

    James Simmons, Co-founder of Montana Excavation & Utilities, joins Taylor on the podcast today to share his journey from Pennsylvania to Montana and discuss the trials and triumphs of building a business in the excavation industry. From early entrepreneurial ventures as a teen mowing lawns to managing a growing excavation company, James’ story is one of resilience, determination, and smart risk-taking. Whether it’s overcoming financial challenges or navigating the competitive Bozeman construction market, his experiences provide valuable insights for listeners in the construction and business sectors. Together, Taylor and James dive deeper into the realities of owning and running a business in construction, discussing the importance of taking calculated risks, maintaining older equipment to manage overhead, and the struggles of balancing mental health while growing a business. James emphasizes the critical role of partnerships, both in business and personal life, to share the burden and keep motivation high. He also reflects on the power of a clear vision, including the use of vision boards to stay focused on both personal and professional goals. Whether you’re interested in business growth, construction, or personal development, this episode is packed with actionable advice based upon real-world experience that will undoubtedly prove invaluable. Key Themes: James’s journey from a small lawn care business to co-founding Montana Excavation & Utilities The challenges of managing a growing business in a competitive market The importance of taking risks and managing overhead with older equipment How partnerships in business can alleviate stress and share responsibilities The mental and emotional toll of entrepreneurship and the value of resilience The role of vision boards in setting and achieving personal and business goals Lessons learned from starting over and the power of persistence Top Quotes: "Running a business isn’t for the faint of heart; it’s full of risks, sacrifices, and challenges." "The more you work on your business, the more work you create for yourself. It’s a never-ending cycle." "Having a business partner is crucial—you need someone to share the load and make sure the numbers add up." "Never give up. Have a clear vision of what you want to do, and trust that the hard work will eventually pay off." "I started with $30,000 and quickly found myself broke in Montana, but that experience was humbling and essential for growth." "Older equipment means lower overhead, but it also means constant repairs—it’s a balance you have to manage." "Mental health can take a beating in this industry; finding a way to de-stress, whether it’s through the gym or therapy, is critical." "Scaling too fast can destroy a company—growing responsibly and with intention is the only way forward." "At the end of the day, if you’re not passionate about what you do, no amount of work will be sustainable." Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Montana Excavation & Utilities: https://www.excavatemt.com/

    35 min

  4. 7 OCT

    My Secrets to Success in Construction, with Lynn Miller

    Taylor welcomes Lynn Miller, President of Miller Earthworks, to the podcast this week to explore his remarkable journey from a rather modest start to leading a successful family-owned business. Highlighting his unique approach to excavating which involves focusing on niche projects that larger companies often overlook, Lynn discusses with Taylor the importance of fostering strong relationships with customers and employees, the challenges of steady growth, and the benefits of keeping business local. Lynn’s story emphasizes key themes such as balancing business expansion with personal life, cultivating a supportive company culture, and the value of mentorship. From making smart financial choices to prioritizing work-life balance, our guest provides practical advice for anyone looking to start or grow a business. His conversation with Taylor here today also covers navigating economic shifts, investing in employees, and building a company rooted in loyalty and integrity. In essence, Lynn's journey serves as a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about growth—it’s about staying true to your values, investing in people, and creating a legacy of integrity. Episode Highlights: The importance of focusing on smaller, niche jobs in the excavating industry How to foster a loyal, motivated workforce through employee involvement and care Balancing business growth with personal and family life The value of mentorship and having trusted advisors in business Keeping operations local and building strong, long-term relationships with clients Navigating financial challenges, from debt management to strategic growth The role of faith, family, and community in shaping business decisions Key Takeaways: "We started out with pretty much nothing. I borrowed money from a neighbor to buy that first piece of equipment. We have a lot to be thankful for." "I love to involve my guys in decisions. It brings a lot of ownership and shows their value." "Having a mentor is a big thing. A banker, insurance company, and accountant that share similar values go a long way." "Relationships are key.” "There are sacrifices to be made in business. Work is the temporary part. The long term is your family." "I love to run equipment. I would still be on equipment if I didn't have anything else to do." "Building strong relationships with your customers and employees is so big in business." "We have a lot to be thankful for." As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/ Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Lynn Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-miller-24361260/ Miller Earthworks: https://millertrenching.com/

    42 min

  5. 23 SEPT

    Overcoming Construction Industry Obstacles with Bret Barnhart

    Sitting down for a chat with Taylor today is none other than Bret Barnhart, President of Barnhart Excavating in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Bret shares his incredible journey, from humble beginnings working with his father and grandfather to growing his company into a thriving business that handles both municipal and commercial projects. Together, he and Taylor discuss Bret’s family legacy, his hands-on experience digging storm shelters, and the unique challenges of working in Tornado Alley.  Throughout the episode, Bret dives deeper into the realities of running a multi-generational business in the construction industry. He talks about his struggle to find the right people, the importance of understanding financials, and how he transformed his company’s trajectory by investing in the right tools and systems. Bret also shares his personal experiences with balancing work and family life, and the lessons he's learned about leadership, resilience, and growth in a highly competitive market. His insights on navigating cash flow challenges, leveraging opportunities, and maintaining strong relationships with clients and partners will resonate with any business owner in the construction field. Join in today and experience Bret’s story - a compelling tale of grit, hard work, and dedication to keeping his business alive through changing times. Topics: The origins of Barnhart Excavating: A family business dating back to the 1930s Bret's transition from hourly work to running a company with a broader scope of services Challenges of operating in Tornado Alley and how it shaped their approach to storm shelters The importance of financial discipline and investing in estimating software Navigating cash flow challenges in the construction industry, especially with fluctuating costs Family dynamics in a multi-generational business and the balance between work and personal life Building a strong team: Hiring the right people and avoiding excuses in business operations The significance of no-regrets leadership and setting clear core values for the company Key Takeaways: “You either buy them out, or you go out of business with mules.” “We’re building a new office, and the safe room is coming in today — gotta be ready for those tornadoes.” “I was making $55 an hour, working seven days a week, and I knew I had to do something different.” “If you could multiply your five best people, you could take on anything in this world.” “You’ve got to figure out how to make it work, even if you’re paying 14% interest on your first loan.” “I didn’t realize what it really took to grow until I was standing at the edge of bankruptcy.” “Once you know your equipment costs down to the hour, you’ll never estimate the same way again.” “Protecting the family name while pushing for growth — that’s the balance we all have to strike.” “You can't rely on cheap labor to build a quality company.” “Business can be hard on marriage, but you need the right support to make it through.” As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/ Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Bret Barnhart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bret-barnhart-027a4821/ Barnhart Excavating: https://barnhartexcavating.com/

    55 min

  6. 9 SEPT

    How Reinvestment Transformed a Sealcoating Business - Michael Melicia

    Michael Melicia, the founder and CEO of Coastal Paving and Excavating, joins Taylor this week to share his remarkable journey from starting a business with just $500 to leading a thriving civil engineering and construction company. Along the way, Michael and Taylor explore the challenges of starting a business at a young age and how Michael navigated these obstacles with determination and resilience. The discussion also highlights the transformative power of social media in business growth, with our guest emphasizing how a strong online presence has been instrumental in expanding his company’s reach and reputation. Additionally, Michael talks about the importance of maintaining a warrior mindset in the face of adversity, balancing family life with the demands of entrepreneurship, and the critical role of personal branding in building a successful business. Michael further delves into his unique and effective leadership style, which sets him apart in the industry, and shares his perspective on the future of Coastal Paving and the evolving landscape of content creation. He offers valuable insights on risk management and the lessons he's learned from past failures, reinforcing the idea that staying true to oneself is essential for long-term success. This episode is rich with advice on work-life balance, entrepreneurship, and strategic business growth, making it a must-listen for anyone in the industry or aspiring entrepreneurs who are looking to learn from Michael’s experience and expertise. With powerful takeaways on the intersection of personal and professional development, this conversation provides listeners with the tools and inspiration needed to succeed in their own ventures. Topics: The journey from $500 to a successful paving and excavating business The impact of social media on business growth The challenges and rewards of starting a business at a young age The importance of a warrior mindset in entrepreneurship Balancing family life with business responsibilities The role of personal branding in business success Michael’s unorthodox and effective leadership style The future of Coastal Paving and content creation  Key Takeaways: "Sometimes you're just two letters away from being what you need to be to get the job done: a warrior or a worrier." "Starting a business is all about effort at the end of the day." "I want to live forever a little bit through my personal brand and my story." "Business takes sacrifice, but the balance with family is what creates a healthy ecosystem." "If you can't read the energy of other humans, you're missing a crucial skill in business." "Every failure is a lesson – learn from it, adjust, and move forward." "I want to create a legacy, something big to leave behind." "You need to water your plants at home for them to give you the oxygen to grow your business." "Whoever you are when the camera’s off, that’s who you should be when the camera’s on." "High risk, high reward – it’s all about managing that balance." As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/ Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Coastal Paving and Excavating:  https://coastalpavingex.com/ Coastal Paving Instagram: coastalpaving_ex Michael’s Instagram:  michael_a_melicia

    46 min

  7. 19 AGO

    Practical Insights: Matt DiBara’s Journey of Entrepreneurship and Balance

    Taylor welcomes the truly amazing Matt DiBara, a fourth-generation mason and the founder of The Contractor Consultants to the podcast today. At just 31 years old, Matt has transformed the recruitment landscape for contractors, offering a fresh approach to an industry rich in tradition. With over 100 years of family history in the masonry business, Matt's story reflects a blend of dedication, innovation, and a commitment to blue-collar excellence. Together, he and Taylor delve into the complexities of running a family business, the value of preserving hands-on experience, and the crucial role of innovative recruitment strategies in the construction industry. As they explore Matt's journey, the conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a generational legacy in the masonry sector while adapting to the evolving dynamics of a family-owned business. Matt discusses how his upbringing, deeply rooted in blue-collar values, influenced his approach to business and life, leading him to develop a recruitment model that connects skilled workers with great employers. The episode also touches on the significance of employee appreciation, the challenges of achieving work-life balance as an entrepreneur, and the strategies that enabled Matt to break into the high-profile Los Angeles market. As you will hear, Matt's story is a powerful reminder of the impact that innovation and a strong work ethic can have in the construction industry and beyond. Topics: Generational Legacy: Upholding a 100-year family business, emphasizing hands-on experience, and addressing blue-collar work stigmas. Business Growth: Scaling through strategic geographic expansion and diversification of services. Innovative Recruitment: Transforming how skilled workers connect with employers in the construction industry. Employee Appreciation: Fostering a family-like culture and respecting employees to ensure loyalty. Work-Life Balance: Navigating the challenges of balancing entrepreneurship with family responsibilities. Market Expansion: Successfully entering the competitive Los Angeles market by seizing new opportunities. Key Quotes: "Treat customers like neighbors, you'll never make the wrong decision." "We become your hiring partner, embedding our team within your company to find the right people." "Hiring is such a hack; it's the biggest lever pull you can have in a business." "People want to feel appreciated, and that often comes from the small, consistent gestures." "I’d rather fail on the things I believe in than succeed on something I can’t stand behind." "We were exponentially growing, but the big push to grow was always about doing right by our clients." "Recognizing the breakout projects and obsessing over them helped build our network." "The honest employee audit helps catch the little friction points before they become big problems." As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/ Links: Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/ Matt DiBara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewdibara/ The Contractor Consultants: https://thecontractorconsultants.com/

    45 min

  8. 15 JUL

    Building Success: Maximize Profit Margins with Dirt Perfect

    Joining Taylor for a truly inspiring conversation today is Mike Simon, Founder of Dirt Perfect, an excavating business in southern Indiana built upon the rock solid foundation of commitment to family, community, and helping others. A lifelong tradesman turned YouTube star known for his hands-on approach and construction expertise, Mike shares his fascinating journey from the field to social media fame, including his transition to specializing in excavation and the unexpected success he has found online.  Throughout the interview, Mike offers candid insights on running a small business in the construction industry, and discusses the challenges and rewards of working in the trades, the impact of social media on his field, and how he balances work with family life. Taylor and Mike also delve into the evolving landscape of construction equipment, including the rise of automation and electric technology. Packed with relatable experiences and practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for everyone, especially those passionate about a career in the trades. Don't miss out - tune in and gain valuable perspective from a construction industry insider!  Topics:  Mike Simon's journey from a lifelong tradesman to YouTube content creator  His transition from construction to focusing solely on excavating in 2018  The role of social media in modern construction businesses  Balancing work, family life, and personal passions  Insights into managing a small, profitable business  The pros and cons of old versus new equipment  The future of automation and electric equipment in the construction industry  Key Takeaways:  "I've always been in the construction industry, a lifelong tradesman and damn proud of it."  "In 2018, I shut down the construction business and focused solely on excavating."  "Sometimes you wake up, pinch yourself, and wonder, “How in the heck did I get here?"  "Bigger isn't always better; I'm perfectly content where I'm at."  "Social media has actually freed up some of my time because I don't have to chase every job."  "Keep it professional, whether it's in the comments, the posts, no matter what you do."  "I've structured my business to my strengths, and that's what works for us."  "I like the smaller stuff; I don't like being on a job site for more than about two weeks."  "You need more tools in that toolbox to apply to whatever situation or job you have."  "Life is short, man, you’ve got to enjoy it."  As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/  Links:  Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca  To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights  Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/  Dirt Perfect:  Website: https://www.dirtperfect1.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dirtperfect/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dirt.perfect/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvn8y5Gf090ljxf9xbG5K3w

    43 min
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