Too Big To Fail: The Official Podcast of Moss Utilities

Angel Tavera
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  • BUSINESS

Too Big To Fail: Stories from the Front Lines. This podcast, originally for internal ears only, proved too significant not to release to the public. "Too Big To Fail" is more than a title; it's a testament to our dedication to shaping a brighter future, not just for our incredible team, but for the communities we serve. This isn't solely about business; it's about creating a profound and positive impact. We're inviting you behind the scenes to meet the people who make it all happen. You'll hear compelling stories from every corner of our organization, including: Field Superintendents & Foremen: The boots on the ground, sharing their experiences from the field. Project Management's "Glue Guys": The masters of efficiency, fitting in last-second change orders and keeping projects on track. Estimators: The meticulous minds grinding out bids and cultivating vital relationships across the real estate value chain. Tune in to discover our proven approach and the values that embody The Moss Way.

  1. 14. The Right-Of-Way Rodeo with April Seleska

    4D AGO

    14. The Right-Of-Way Rodeo with April Seleska

    This episode of Too Big to Fail features a detailed and inspiring conversation with host Angel Tavera and guest Senior Project Manager April Seleska, providing a raw look at her climb to leadership, the challenges of high-profile utility projects, and the dedication required to succeed as a woman in construction. April's journey is far from typical. It begins in the competitive world of Texas rodeo, where she was an active barrel racer until 2013, a background that forged her relentless work ethic. Her professional career saw her make significant pivots: from early jobs managing a barn and working in a cleaners, she transitioned into a plumbing business, then spent a decade in IT at AutoNation. When she returned to construction, she dove into utility work with a "baptism by fire" mentality, learning the complexities of the industry by sheer will and determination. Her ascent to Senior Project Manager at Moss Utilities is a testament to her capabilities. April details the extraordinary responsibility that comes with the role, which previously included not just project management but also overseeing billings, accounts receivable, collections, and even coordinating company events. She emphasizes that her success is built on humility—never being afraid to ask questions—and mutual respect, which is the foundation of her strong relationships with field superintendents like Julio and Jose. A key focus is the management of high-profile data center projects, which she is frequently trusted with. April explains the massive impact of these jobs, noting the unprecedented safety requirements and the operational challenges of handling plans that are "ever-changing." She stresses the need for constant, meticulous engagement, detailing her process of marking up plans daily based on field reports to avoid costly mistakes like installing the wrong-sized pipe. Ultimately, April's story is one of fierce dedication, setting an incredible example, and finding the necessary work-life balance after years of intense commitment. Chapters (00:00:00) - Former Moss County Horseman(00:00:29) - A message for women in construction(00:01:23) - Workaholics: China Spring and More(00:03:11) - Tyler Wade on His Hobby(00:05:15) - Moss Community Clay Shooting(00:07:48) - Work Experience in Construction(00:12:12) - Moss Utilities: A Different Culture(00:15:24) - A message about the field(00:17:15) - Jose Rodriguez on Julio's(00:19:28) - Data Centers: Safety Standards(00:22:36) - Know Where the Pipe Is at on a Job(00:24:26) - Pushing the Data Center Through Rogers O'Brien(00:25:55) - Meet the Women in Construction

    26 min
  2. 13. Building Your Own Path with Chief Strategy Officer Kelly Roberts

    NOV 5

    13. Building Your Own Path with Chief Strategy Officer Kelly Roberts

    This episode of Too Big to Fail delivers a gripping, no-holds-barred account of how Moss Utilities stared down catastrophe and emerged as a wet utilities powerhouse. Host Angel Tavera sits down with Kelly Roberts, the company's Chief Strategy Officer (and CEO of Moss Heating & Cooling), for an intimate look at the true cost of scaling a business and the ultimate commitment to its people. Kelly reveals the high-stakes reality of the company's near-collapse in 2020. She details the desperate financial situation where lenders and vendors had abandoned them, forcing the leadership team to confront the possibility of bankruptcy. Kelly recounts the crucial moment she implemented the Work In Progress (WIP) schedule, which exposed deep, previously hidden financial hemorrhaging. Her subsequent work, coupled with CEO Garrett Moss's unwavering, "crazy" positivity, secured government lifelines (PPP/EIDL loans) and a vital banking partnership, paving the way for one of construction's most impressive turnarounds. The podcast then shifts to the company's future vision. Kelly unpacks the philosophy behind the podcast's title, explaining that "Too Big to Fail" is a solemn vow: with 500 employee lives depending on Moss, failure is not an option. She provides the definitive explanation for the recent implementation of the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), emphasizing that Garrett chose this path—despite advice to pick a more profitable exit—to ensure long-term retirement security for every single employee, especially the field crews. Finally, Kelly outlines her strategic vision, detailing new initiatives like the Talent Acquisition Manager and the Culture Index to ensure Moss continues its rapid, yet sustainable, growth toward its audacious $250 million goal by putting the right people in the right seats. This conversation is mandatory listening for anyone looking to understand the core values, relentless drive, and profound loyalty that defines Moss Utilities. Chapters (00:00:00) - Garrett's Giving Back to the Company(00:00:59) - John Moss on Too Big to Fail(00:02:24) - How I Met My Husband at Moss Utilities(00:08:23) - What is the Purpose of MOSS?(00:09:05) - Moss Utilities Project Manager on Women in Construction(00:12:41) - The Pain of Bankruptcy(00:19:05) - Moss Utilities: Garrett's Core Value(00:24:19) - Moss Utilities Employee ESOP(00:29:37) - When You Need to Step Down as CFO(00:33:55) - Moss Utilities Needs a Talent Acquisition Manager

    37 min

  3. OCT 9

    12. The "Moss U" Experience with Landon Huddleston

    In this episode of the "Too Big to Fail" podcast, Assistant Project Manager Landon Huddleston discusses his experience as a candidate in the Moss U program. Landon shares his journey from high school, finding welding wasn't a fit due to health issues, to discovering the Moss U program via LinkedIn. He was working for his dad as a field engineer but felt "stagnant" with no room for growth. Despite initial hesitation, a tour of the facility, its benefits, and seeing happy employees convinced him to join. The Moss U program, a new pipeline for people with little to no experience, is set up with rotations to explore different aspects of the company. Landon's first four-month rotation was in the field, starting at the massive Universal project. He was impressed by the project's scale and realized the job was "a lot bigger than just putting pipe in the ground". He praises Superintendent Cristian's dedication, noting Cristian's commitment to the project and his people, even jumping into an excavator to keep the crew on schedule . Landon was humbled seeing the field crews "bust their butt every day" and found a welcoming, family environment. This experience proved invaluable, giving him a greater understanding of installation that can't be gained from computer plans alone. Landon's next rotation was in estimating. Despite having no prior experience, he was eager to learn. The rotation involved takeoffs and assisting estimators who taught him about key details that affect bids, like trench safety and inspections . Landon learned there were "a whole lot more moving parts" and costs involved than he previously thought. He appreciated the perspective that estimators are the "hunter," project managers "cook the meal," and superintendents "serve the meal". He highlights the humility and willingness of senior staff like Edwin and John to teach and pour their knowledge into the Moss U candidates. The final rotation was in project management, where Landon "truly fell in love" with the work. Working with Ryan McBride, he learned the complex moving parts of the role, including permits, change orders, and RFIs . He found Ryan and others willing to confidently help him . The bi-weekly presentations, covering topics like bonds and contracts, also helped candidates digest information and ask questions . The Moss U program was ultimately "proven," and Landon successfully transitioned into a full-time Assistant Project Manager role, with his combined rotation knowledge being "super beneficial" . He views the program, which culminates in a full-time role, as "unheard of" and "truly special". Chapters (00:00:00) - Moss U: The Field Experience(00:01:14) - Moss Utilities: Too Big to Fail(00:02:19) - Nebraska State Community College Student Garrett(00:04:26) - How to transition out of welding into construction management(00:06:11) - The Process of Interviewing at Moss Construction(00:08:30) - Moss Utilities Recruitment(00:09:03) - What a Superintendent Did For Universal Studios(00:12:09) - MASI Program Participants on a Construction Job(00:15:24) - Working with Giovani on his first rotation(00:16:24) - Back in the Field With Jose Castillo(00:20:54) - Retired San Luis County Superintendents talk(00:22:03) - Do estimators need to work in the field?(00:26:22) - John and Edwin on Working With the Insiders(00:28:46) - Project Management Rotation(00:30:36) - Interviews: Moss U Presentations(00:36:58) - Moss U Project Manager Transition

    42 min
  4. 11. Earning your Stripes with Juan Sanchez

    OCT 2

    11. Earning your Stripes with Juan Sanchez

    This episode of "Too Big to Fail" features a detailed and inspiring conversation with Foreman Juan Sanchez, providing a raw look at what it takes to climb the ranks in the utility construction industry. Juan began his journey with Moss Utilities in November 2019, driven by a simple necessity: he needed a job that kept him close to his family after years of working out of state. He started as a laborer, admitting he "didn't know anything" about utilities, despite having a diverse background in landscaping, cooking, and general construction. Juan's transition from the ground up was remarkably fast. He spent only about six months as a laborer, moved quickly to a helper role, and then became a pipe layer. Significantly, he mentions that the chance to become an equipment operator was "skipped" for him, underscoring that his value was quickly seen in his leadership and piping skills, not just machine operation. By the time of the podcast, he had been a Foreman for four years. Juan is candid about the massive stress and comprehensive responsibility that comes with being a foreman. He defines the role as managing "the quality of the work, production, and safety" from the moment he wakes up until he returns home, noting that he is often still planning the next day's work while sleeping. He recounts the nervousness he felt accepting the promotion, telling his superiors that if he failed, he was ready to return to his old job as a pipe layer. This honesty reveals the intense pressure to succeed in a leadership position. Juan has been a firsthand witness to Moss Utilities' massive growth, recalling the early days when the company was housed in a much smaller, more reduced office with less equipment. One of the most powerful elements of his story is the company culture. Juan, who has no immediate family in the area, expresses deep gratitude that his promotion was based entirely on his dedication, effort, and hard work, stating that he didn't reach his position due to a friend or relative. He notes that the company's commitment to its employees is special, citing the fact that the company ensures everyone receives something for Christmas and is recognized as more than "just a number." The decision to make him a foreman came directly from a discussion with Parker (COO Parker Thane) after Juan asked for a raise, acknowledging that he had hit the limit for his current role and needed to "climb higher."

    12 min
  5. 10. Mr. Project Maverick with Jovanny Garcia

    SEP 24

    10. Mr. Project Maverick with Jovanny Garcia

    In this episode of "Too Big to Fail," host Angel Tavern sits down with Superintendent Jovanny Garcia to discuss his incredible journey in the construction industry. From starting as a 14-year-old laborer to becoming a respected superintendent, Jovanny shares how hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to helping others shaped his career. Jovanny opens up about the tough lessons he learned from his father and his early days working grueling summer jobs. He explains how he eventually transitioned from a laborer to a backfill operator and then to a foreman, a promotion he earned at just 22 years old. This role prepared him for the responsibilities of a superintendent, as he was already handling project coordination and communication with inspectors. He also reflects on some of the biggest challenges he's faced on the job, including a difficult but rewarding project in Grand Prairie and the massive, complex Project Maverick. Jovanny emphasizes the importance of teamwork and shares why he prioritizes helping his fellow superintendents and younger crew members—a value he holds dear after facing negativity early in his career. This conversation highlights the values of Moss, the company Jovanny works for, emphasizing that employees are not just a number, but are listened to and valued. Jovanny's story is a testament to the power of a strong work ethic and the importance of a supportive company culture in building a successful career. Chapters (00:00:00) - Superintendents on the Rock(00:01:06) - Construction worker starts at 14 years old(00:03:06) - How a Pipe Layer Man Became a Foreman(00:05:49) - Supervisors at Moss Industries(00:09:03) - Foreman on the Crews(00:13:37) - Moss Water Company's Big Projects(00:17:20) - How Construction Work Was Done on the Summer Cruise(00:18:08) - Projects 6 and 7

    20 min
  6. 9. From Living Out of Hotel Rooms to COO: A Blue-Collar Backstory with Parker Thane

    SEP 16

    9. From Living Out of Hotel Rooms to COO: A Blue-Collar Backstory with Parker Thane

    Some people talk about their "career path." Our COO, Parker Thane, talks about the path he had to dig. On this episode of the "Too Big to Fail" podcast, Parker shares a raw and unfiltered look at his journey. He reveals his life before Moss Utilities, detailing his high school struggles, an unconventional homeschool degree, and the moment he called his dad for a second chance after hitting rock bottom. It's a story of choosing to leave a troubled life behind and getting to work. Parker takes us back to his start in the trades, from the labor-intensive work of his father's pool business—where he was paid by the job to move heavy coping and stone—to his first role as a laborer in utility construction. He recounts how his work ethic, forged by his father's tireless example, propelled him from the punch crew to foreman, then to superintendent, and eventually to COO. He shares candidly about the "hard years" of 2018-2019 and the deep-seated fear that the business might fail. This isn't just a story of individual success; it's a blueprint for building a business on the right principles. Parker explains how Moss Utilities forged unbreakable partnerships with key clients like Pogue Construction and RPM xConstruction by simply sticking to their word, owning their mistakes, and consistently showing up. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of integrity, and the belief that true leadership is about more than a title. Tune in to hear how this unwavering grit led Parker to a powerful partnership with founder Garrett Moss, and how that shared commitment became the foundation that makes Moss Utilities truly too big to fail. Chapters (00:00:00) - How construction helped get out of jail(00:04:35) - Work for My Dad After Having A Baby(00:07:07) - Worked on a construction crew for years(00:09:21) - Punch Crews at Moss County Pipe Work(00:12:42) - Garrett on Starting His Own Company(00:13:56) - How a Superintendent helped grow the company(00:17:50) - Tom Pogue on His Time at Disney(00:20:08) - Pogue School Project and RPMX(00:24:35) - GC team: Working together on the GC(00:25:18) - Garrett on His Relationship with the Company(00:27:38) - Moss on the mic

    28 min
  7. 8. Building a Strong Safety Culture with Angel Tavera and Jesus Torres

    AUG 21

    8. Building a Strong Safety Culture with Angel Tavera and Jesus Torres

    In this episode of "Top Big to Fail," Moss Utilities Safety Manager Angel Tavera sits down with his employee, Jesus Torres, for a conversation about building a strong safety culture. They share a remarkable, parallel journey from their early days in construction to becoming key leaders at Moss Utilities. This episode is a testament to the power of mentorship, shared experience, and a company that truly invests in its people. Angel and Jesus highlight the unique culture at Moss Utilities, where an employee-first approach is at the core of everything they do—from hosting pickleball tournaments to the company's unwavering commitment to safety, no matter the cost. Chapters (00:00:00) - Safety Representative for Utility Contractors(00:02:57) - How I Got My Foreman Certification(00:07:37) - How I Learned To Work in Construction(00:11:48) - How I learned to weld safety(00:15:49) - locator technician transitions from utility company to Moss(00:20:28) - Safety on Utility Projects(00:25:10) - One foreman's dedication to the company(00:30:16) - "The Band's No More on Site"(00:30:46) - How to Play Soccer(00:34:16) - Moss FC is the only Mexican club in the Liga

    37 min
  8. 7. The Long Haul: From Flowers to Excavators and Finding Sobriety

    AUG 14

    7. The Long Haul: From Flowers to Excavators and Finding Sobriety

    In this episode of "Too Big To Fail," host Angel Tavern sits down with Moss Utilities' Matthew Castillo, offering listeners a candid look at his remarkable journey. Matthew shares how he transitioned from the fast-paced world of dispatching flowers for a small company to managing the massive fleet of heavy machinery for Moss Utilities. He opens up about the personal battles that defined his past, including his struggles with depression and a significant alcohol addiction. Matthew’s story is one of profound change, highlighting how the supportive, family-like culture at Moss Utilities was instrumental in his recovery. He recounts the pivotal moment he went "cold turkey" and the challenging week he spent in the hospital, a wake-up call that put his life on a new trajectory. Now two years sober, Matthew speaks with immense pride about his role in the company. He details the complexities of his job, from coordinating the right machines for the right jobs to handling high-pressure "911" calls that demand immediate action. His work is far more than logistics; it's a critical function that ensures the safety of his team and the success of every project. Matthew emphasizes the company's "family first" motto, underscoring his commitment to getting his drivers home safely and on time, allowing them to enjoy their lives outside of work. The episode also delves into the operational side of the transportation department, revealing the intricate dance of working with superintendents, managing vendors, and maintaining a high level of efficiency that is vital to the company's reputation. Matthew’s story is a powerful testament to personal resilience, the importance of a strong workplace culture, and the critical, often unseen, work that keeps a company like Moss Utilities running. Chapters (00:00:00) - Dispatching Heavy Haul Industries: Garrett Moss(00:02:52) - Dispatching Flowers: One Employee's Fight to Get Clean(00:08:55) - The Transportation Department's 911(00:14:46) - Supervisors: Make Sure Our Guys Are(00:21:59) - "I'm Pretty Well-Known"(00:22:15) - Pipe Installers: The Hard Part of My Job(00:24:57) - What's one of your favorite things about working at Moss?(00:30:43) - Heavy Duty: Driving a RGN

    34 min
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About

Too Big To Fail: Stories from the Front Lines. This podcast, originally for internal ears only, proved too significant not to release to the public. "Too Big To Fail" is more than a title; it's a testament to our dedication to shaping a brighter future, not just for our incredible team, but for the communities we serve. This isn't solely about business; it's about creating a profound and positive impact. We're inviting you behind the scenes to meet the people who make it all happen. You'll hear compelling stories from every corner of our organization, including: Field Superintendents & Foremen: The boots on the ground, sharing their experiences from the field. Project Management's "Glue Guys": The masters of efficiency, fitting in last-second change orders and keeping projects on track. Estimators: The meticulous minds grinding out bids and cultivating vital relationships across the real estate value chain. Tune in to discover our proven approach and the values that embody The Moss Way.

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