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What happens when a great lineman gets promoted to foreman but never learns how to lead? Ryan sits down with leadership coach, author, podcaster, and speaker Nic Bittle to talk about one of the biggest challenges in the trades: preparing people to lead before handing them responsibility for a crew. Nic has spent years working with contractors, foremen, apprentices, and industry leaders across North America, helping them improve communication, navigate conflict, and develop stronger teams. Together, they explore why technical ability doesn't automatically translate into leadership, how poor communication creates unnecessary problems on the job, and why the best leaders focus on developing people rather than carrying everything themselves. The conversation covers practical tools for setting clear expectations, communicating up and down the chain of command, asking better questions, and building a career mindset. Nic also shares lessons from his book Build Your One, including the four levels of ownership and why developing the next person matters. Whether you're an apprentice, journeyman, foreman, superintendent, or contractor, this conversation offers practical lessons you can start applying with your crew tomorrow. ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUEST: NIC BITTLE⚡️ Spotify Podcast: Nic Bittle: Life and Leadership Website: NICBITTLE.com | Nic's Books | Programs | Keynotes | Forman's Inner Circle | Leadership DRIP | Contact Nic Instagram: @nicbittle TikTok: @nic.bittle YouTube: @nicbittleleadership LinkedIn: Nic Bittle Facebook: NicBittle.com (@WorkForcePro1) 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: @Ryan-Lucas 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

What actually makes someone worth following on a line crew? Ryan sits down with Ross Henault, a second-generation lineman and foreman from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, for a conversation about leadership, communication, crew culture, and where the powerline trade is headed next. Ross got his start in the trade at 20 years old and has spent his career learning that being technically good at the job is only part of what makes someone a strong leader. Together, Ryan and Ross dig into the difference between managing people and actually leading them, why yelling doesn't make someone a better apprentice, what builds trust between a foreman and a crew, and why ownership and vulnerability can make a crew stronger. They also talk about preparing the next generation of lineworkers, giving apprentices room to learn, listening instead of waiting to respond, using new technology and AI in the trade, and why leadership may be one of the biggest competitive advantages for anyone trying to build a career in the trades. The conversation explores what happens when leaders stop needing to be the smartest person on the job, start giving their crews ownership, and create an environment where people actually want to show up and do great work. Whether you're an apprentice trying to stand out, a journeyman stepping into more responsibility, a foreman leading a crew, or someone responsible for developing the next generation of tradespeople, this conversation is about becoming the kind of person others want to work with and learn from. ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

Who do you have in your corner when life starts getting heavy? Ryan sits down with returning guest Kevin Taylor, a longtime lineman who spent nearly 12 years with CenterPoint Energy before heading outside and working on the road for several more years. Kevin first appeared on Powerline Podcast in Episode 76, and this time the conversation goes much deeper into mental health, road life, family, safety, and the people who helped him through some of his hardest seasons. Together, they talk about the reality of isolation on the road, therapy, alcohol, the pressure to appear fine, and why having people you can actually call matters. Kevin shares the idea behind his personal “boardroom,” a small group of trusted people he relies on for different parts of life, and explains how that support system helped change the way he handles difficult moments. Kevin also opens up about the serious 2022 accident that left him in ICU, forced him to relearn everyday tasks, and permanently changed how he thinks about risk, decision-making, and the ripple effect our choices can have on the people around us. He also shares why he started the Ace of Spades Project, built around one goal: helping someone through a place he already knows firsthand. The conversation explores what it really means to have an “ace in the hole,” why sometimes the person struggling will not be the one to reach out first, how road life can amplify isolation, and why one person showing up at the right time can matter more than they realize. Whether you’re a lineman, traveler, foreman, apprentice, spouse, parent, or simply someone trying to show up better for the people around you, this conversation is a reminder that you do not have to handle everything alone. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available. U.S. + Canada: Call or text 988, 24/7.If there is immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUESTS: KEVIN TAYLOR⚡️ TikTok: @aceofspadesproject YouTube: @AceofSpadesProject Instagram: @itskmfit 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

What does brotherhood look like when life gets hard? Ryan sits down with Christopher Thomas and Clint Vick for a deeply personal conversation about mental health, isolation, identity, and what it really means to look out for one another in the trades. Christopher is a Marine Corps veteran and journeyman lineman with more than 15 years in the trade, whose career has evolved into training, leadership, and helping strengthen the culture around the people doing the work. Clint returns to Powerline Podcast for a second time (listen to his first episode here). He is a longtime journeyman lineman whose career has taken him through utility work, barehand transmission, years on the road, leadership, and substation construction. Clint is also a very talented country artist; check out his music here. Both share openly about periods in their lives when they struggled to keep going, the isolation that made those periods harder, and the people who helped simply by showing up and continuing to check in. Together, they talk about the toll of road life, chasing overtime, losing connection at home, moving from the tools into increasingly isolated leadership roles, and tying too much of your identity to the job. More importantly, they talk about what helped: honest conversations, friends who kept calling, finding the right person to talk to, rebuilding purpose, taking care of your physical health, reconnecting with family and community, and creating a culture where checking on someone is simply part of the brotherhood. This episode isn't about having the perfect words. It's about knowing your people, noticing when something changes, making the call, and staying connected. If you or someone you know is in crisis or needs immediate support, call or text 988 in the U.S. or Canada. ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUESTS: CHRISTOPHER THOMAS & CLINT VICK⚡️ Christopher's Instagram: @gummy_bears_and_deadlifts Clint's Instagram: @vickclint 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

What if mental health was treated with the same urgency as every other jobsite safety risk? Ryan sits down with Wykisha Thomas-McKinney of MATES North America, alongside Nate Strickland and Tyler Smith of Summit Line Construction, for an important conversation about suicide prevention, mental health, and what it really means to look out for the people working beside you. Wykisha is the Program Operations Manager for MATES North America, helping bring the peer-led suicide prevention model into North American construction. Nate is Summit Line Construction's Safety Director and shares both his professional perspective and personal experience with depression and losing close friends to suicide. Tyler is a Senior Project Manager with 23 years in the industry, including roughly 18 years living the realities of field and road work. Together, they unpack some of the pressures that can make construction and line work uniquely challenging: long rotations, isolation, missed family milestones, relationship strain, workplace trauma, substance use, and a culture that has historically told workers to put their game face on and keep moving. The conversation also breaks down the MATES Network of Safety, including General Awareness training, peer Connectors and advanced suicide intervention training designed to put support directly inside the workforce. The goal isn't to turn coworkers into therapists. It's to give people the tools to notice when something is wrong, ask the question, listen, offer support and help someone find the right resources. They also discuss why leaders set the tone for psychologically safer crews, why being vulnerable doesn't make someone less tough, how to check in with a coworker who seems off, and why building a mental-health plan before a crisis can make it easier to know where to turn when things get difficult. Whether you're an apprentice, journeyman, foreman, supervisor, safety professional, contractor, leader, spouse or friend, this episode is a reminder that safety doesn't stop at the hard hat. CONTENT NOTE: This episode discusses suicide, suicidal thoughts, depression, substance use, loss and workplace trauma. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available: United States: Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.Canada: Call or text 9-8-8 for the Suicide Crisis Helpline.If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Learn more about MATES North America: matesna.org ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUESTS: WYKISHA THOMAS-MCKINNEY & NATE STRICKLAND⚡️ LinkedIn: Wykisha Mckinney | Nathaniel Strickland MATES NORTH AMERICA PILOT Website: matesna.org Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@matesnorthamerica TikTok: @matesnorthamerica LinkedIn: MATES North America Pilot Facebook: @MATES North America Pilot X: @MATESNthAmerica 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

What does it take to build a life most people only dream about? Ryan travels to New York to sit down with Dennis Kelly for his third appearance on Powerline Podcast, and this time, they do it in person. Over the course of the visit, Dennis takes Ryan inside the world he has built, from KR Utilities and multiple businesses to airplanes, helicopters, supercars, motorcycles, racing, and the experiences that define his “Live the Lifestyle” mentality. Dennis shares how he went from working in the line trade to building his first fitness centre while working six tens, using every spare hour and available dollar to keep moving forward. He explains why small steps compound, how reputation creates opportunities, why relationships matter, and what it means to live according to your own values instead of someone else’s expectations. This conversation is not about copying Dennis’s lifestyle. It is about deciding what you want your own life to look like and taking practical steps toward it. Dennis breaks down the mindset, work ethic, calculated risks, relationships, and problem-solving that helped him build seven businesses and create a life centred around freedom, progress, and meaningful experiences. Topics covered: What “Live the Lifestyle” really means Starting a business while working full-time in the trade Taking one step and solving one problem at a time Why your reputation can create opportunities years later Building relationships before you need something Using linework as the foundation for entrepreneurship Why success brings bigger problems, not fewer problems Designing a life around freedom, values, and experiences Learning to fly airplanes and helicopters Dennis’s Hurricane Helene rescue and relief efforts Building businesses without taking an early paycheck Why small actions compound into extraordinary results Interested in storm work with KR Utilities? Join the KR Utilities storm list by visiting KRutilities.com. Subscribe to Powerline Podcast for more conversations with the people building careers, businesses, and lives beyond the trade. ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️  📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUEST: DENNIS KELLY⚡️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@denkelly10 | @krutilities LinkedIn: Dennis Kelly | KR Utilities 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

How does a company survive for 100 years in one of the most niche industries in America? Ryan sits down with Rod Paul, President & CEO of Bashlin Industries, and Justin Tate, leader in Sales & Product Development, to explore the story behind one of the utility industry's most trusted manufacturers. From humble beginnings to becoming a name generations of lineworkers rely on, Bashlin's journey has been defined by one constant: adapting to change. Rod and Justin share how the company has navigated a century of industry shifts through product innovation, customer feedback, leadership transitions, and a commitment to earning trust one product at a time. They also discuss the challenges facing modern manufacturing, including workforce shortages, automation, robotic welding, and what it takes to continue building products in America. The conversation explores why trust is earned through consistency, how companies stay relevant across generations, the importance of listening to customers, and why every successful business eventually reaches another moment where it must adapt or risk being left behind. Whether you're an apprentice, journeyman, supervisor, contractor, manufacturer, business owner, or simply interested in leadership and innovation, this episode offers valuable lessons from a company that has spent 100 years evolving alongside the industry it serves. Topics covered: The history of Bashlin IndustriesSurviving 100 years in a niche industryWhy innovation never stopsBuilding products lineworkers trustCustomer-driven product developmentLeadership through changeThe future of American manufacturingWorkforce shortages and skilled tradesRobotics and automation in manufacturingLessons from a century of adaptation ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUESTS: ROD PAUL, JUSTIN TATE & BASHLIN INDUSTRIES⚡️ ROD PAUL / BASHLIN INDUSTRIES Website: bashlin.com Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@bashlininc YouTube: @bashlinindustriesinc.9630 LinkedIn: Bashlin Facebook: Bashlin Industries X: @bashlininc JUSTIN TATE LinkedIn: Justin Tate 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

Why the electrical industry is entering a decades-long boom. Ryan sits down with Pennsylvania Transformer Technology’s Bart Gaskey and Todd Davis inside one of North America’s largest transformer manufacturing facilities to explore the growing demand for power infrastructure and why the future of the electrical industry has never looked stronger. Bart is a strategic manufacturing leader with decades of experience across transformer manufacturing, grid infrastructure, and large-scale energy projects. Todd is a longtime manufacturing leader who has worked across multiple transformer manufacturers and now helps lead operations at Pennsylvania Transformer Technology. Together, they break down the myths surrounding American transformer manufacturing, explain why massive investments are flowing back into domestic production, and reveal how AI, data centers, electrification, renewable energy, and grid expansion are creating one of the biggest opportunities the electrical industry has seen in decades. The conversation explores why transformers are far more complex than most people realize, what it takes to build equipment that powers millions of homes and businesses, how Pennsylvania Transformer Technology is preparing for the future with major facility expansions, and why hundreds of new careers are opening for the next generation of skilled tradespeople. Whether you’re an apprentice, journeyman, engineer, contractor, manufacturer, student, or simply curious about the future of North America’s electrical grid, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most important industries most people never get to see. Topics covered: Why the electrical industry is entering a decades-long boom The truth about manufacturing transformers in America Why AI, data centers, and electrification are driving unprecedented demand How large power transformers are designed and built Why every transformer is custom engineered The nearly 100-year history of Pennsylvania Transformer Technology What it takes to manufacture 765 kV transformers The logistics of transporting equipment weighing hundreds of thousands of pounds How Quanta is expanding domestic manufacturing capacity Why skilled trades offer one of the most secure career paths today Hundreds of career opportunities available in transformer manufacturing The future of North America’s electrical grid ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUESTS: BART GASKEY, TODD DAVIS & PENNSYLVANIA TRANSFORMER TECHNOLOGY LLC (PTT)⚡️ BART GASKEY LinkedIn: Bart Gaskey TODD DAVIS LinkedIn: Todd Davis PENNSYLVANIA TRANSFORMER TECHNOLOGY LLC (PTT) Instagram:@patransformer TikTok: @pennsylvania.transformer YouTube: @PATransformer LinkedIn: Pennsylvania Transformer Technology LLC (PTT) Facebook: @PATransformer Website: https://www.patransformer.com/ 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

What does it take to become the kind of leader people actually want to follow? Ryan sits down with Randy Smith and Brian Allen, two leadership development professionals with decades of experience helping organizations build stronger teams, develop future leaders, and create lasting workplace cultures. From coaching supervisors and designing leadership programs to working alongside field operations and preparing the next generation of leaders, Randy and Brian share the lessons they’ve learned about earning trust, developing people, and leading with intention. The conversation explores why leadership should begin long before a promotion, how engaged leaders create stronger crews, why mentorship and communication matter more than ever, and how AI can become a valuable tool without replacing the experience, judgment, and relationships that define the trades. Whether you’re an apprentice, journeyman, foreman, supervisor, contractor, or executive, this episode offers practical insights on developing leadership skills, building stronger teams, and preparing the next generation of the workforce. 🔔 If you work in the pipe, sheet metal, or mechanical trades, be sure to follow The Pipeline Podcast as Randy and Brian launch their new show dedicated to sharing stories from the field, celebrating their people, and developing the next generation of leaders. Going live with Episode 1 in the next few weeks! 🔔 Topics covered: Why leadership isn’t defined by a job titleDeveloping leadership skills before the promotionWhat engaged leadership looks like in the fieldBuilding trust and stronger workplace culturesWhy mentorship and communication still matterPreparing the next generation of trade leadersHow AI can support, not replace, skilled workersEmbracing technology while keeping people firstLeadership lessons for every stage of your careerWhy Randy and Brian are launching The Pipeline Podcast ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

What responsibility do we have to the next generation entering the trade? In this special episode, Ryan shares a live recording from the Perspectives Panel at the 2026 Infrastructure Safety Symposium (ISS), where he moderated a discussion on one of the industry’s most important challenges: generational knowledge transfer. Featuring two father-son duos from the utility industry, the panel brings together leaders, journeymen, and apprentices to explore how experience, leadership, and safety knowledge can be passed down as skilled workers retire and younger crews step into larger roles earlier in their careers. Carey Kostyk, President of Valard Construction, joins his son Pat Kostyk, Journeyman Lineman at Valard Construction, alongside Jeff Ziemba, Manager of Contractor Safety at Pepco Holdings Inc., and his son Jeffrey Ziemba, 4th Year Apprentice Lineman at Delmarva Power. Together, they discuss the realities of entering the trade, the importance of mentorship, why communication and trust matter, and how organizations can help bridge the experience gap while building a safer future for the next generation of lineworkers. Whether you’re an apprentice, journeyman, supervisor, contractor, or industry leader, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on developing future leaders and ensuring critical lessons aren’t lost as the trade evolves. Topics covered: Generational knowledge transferBridging the experience gapMentorship and workforce developmentLeadership at every levelSafety culture and communicationCreating environments where people can speak upThe changing role of apprentices and journeymenRetaining and transferring institutional knowledgeDeveloping the next generation of lineworkersBuilding a safer future for the trade ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUESTS: CAREY KOSTYK, JEFF ZIEMBA & VALARD CONSTRUCTION⚡️ CAREY KOSTYK LinkedIn: Carey Kostyk JEFF ZIEMBA LinkedIn: Jeff Ziemba VALARD CONSTRUCTION Instagram: @valardconstruction LinkedIn: Valard Construction 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

What does it take to turn a simple idea into something that could change an entire industry? Ryan sits down with Matt Ferguson, a journeyman lineman, storm worker, and inventor who spent years working in the field before developing a safer approach to one of the most common tasks crews perform every day. From chasing opportunities to break into the trade, to working long hours on storm restoration, to surviving early setbacks as an apprentice, Matt shares the experiences that shaped both his career and his perspective on safety. The conversation explores why some of the best innovations come from the people doing the work, how a chain from Home Depot and an old set of pole tongs sparked an idea in his dad’s garage, and why challenging “the way it’s always been done” is critical to moving the industry forward. Whether you’re an apprentice, journeyman, supervisor, contractor, or someone looking to make a difference in your trade, this episode is a reminder that small ideas can have a big impact. Topics covered: Breaking into the line trade and earning opportunitiesLessons learned from storm workWorking through fear and setbacks as an apprenticeWhy experience creates better solutionsThe problem with accepting “the way it’s always been done”How Matt developed his pole tong safety innovationInnovation, safety, and improving the tradeWhy workers should share their ideas and challenge old assumptionsMatt’s vision for the future of the industry ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUEST: MATT FERGUSON⚡️ LinkedIn: Matthew Ferguson 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

What happens before a single power line ever goes up? Ryan sits down with Jake Brown, Brad Minerick, and Jonathan Pipsair to pull back the curtain on foundation drilling, one of the most important and least understood trades in the utility industry. Jake is a VP-level drilling operations leader overseeing projects across North America. Brad is a superintendent who has spent years balancing road life, family, and leadership in the field. Jonathan brings more than 40 years of experience in foundation drilling, including marine and amphibious projects throughout the Everglades and Louisiana. Together, they share what decades in the trade have taught them about road life, family sacrifice, career growth, leadership, and the hidden work that happens long before the lights turn on. The conversation explores why drilling is more art than science, what most people never see behind reliable power, the realities of spending years on the road, and why the higher you climb the ladder, the more you should understand what you're asking for. Whether you're an apprentice, journeyman, supervisor, contractor, or simply curious about the people who build the infrastructure around us, this episode offers a rare look into the foundation of line work. Topics covered: The hidden trade behind every power lineWhy drilling is more art than scienceThe realities of life on the roadFamily sacrifice and career growthThe generation gap in the tradesLeadership, ambition, and climbing the ladderPride in building something tangibleWhat decades in the field teach you about success ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

What does it actually take to become a good powerline apprentice in 2026, and why are so many young apprentices feeling behind before they’ve even really started? Ryan sits down with Shayla Gaffney, a final-year powerline apprentice and content creator, sharing a more honest look at what apprenticeship actually feels like for the next generation entering the trade. From line school and storm work to learning under pressure and finding the right crew, Shayla speaks openly about the reality of becoming good at something that takes years to master. They dig into why apprentices can’t rush the process, the pressure of constantly feeling behind, the importance of crew culture and mentorship, and how the right foreman can completely change an apprentice’s confidence and future in the trade. Shayla also shares lessons from storm work, learning by watching experienced linemen, and why good apprentices focus less on chasing the title and more on earning trust over time. Topics covered: Why so many apprentices feel behind in today’s trade cultureThe reality of learning under pressure on a crewWhy becoming good at line work takes years, not monthsThe difference the right crew and foreman can makeLearning by watching experienced linemen workWhy rushing the process hurts more than it helpsThe mental side of apprenticeship nobody talks aboutStorm work, confidence, embarrassment, and growthCrew culture, mentorship, and earning trust over timeWhat young apprentices actually need to hear entering the trade ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUEST: SHAYLA GAFFNEY⚡️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@shaygaff.co TikTok: @shaygaff.co 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠

Why are so many good foremen burning out? Ryan sits down with Andrew Morgan, a Texas distribution foreman lineman who came up working backyards, reconductors, and storm work. From climbing poles as an apprentice to leading crews in the field, Andrew speaks from years of experience building and maintaining the power grid. Together, they dig into the controlled chaos of line work, why today’s foremen are losing the time needed to mentor the next generation, what “bodies in the bucket” really means for the trade, and the leadership burden most people outside the industry never see. Andrew’s reflection on the Quanta Elite call: “I didn’t turn those wrenches. I didn’t sag that wire. I just gave them a path.” reframes leadership in the trades in a way every crew leader will recognize. Topics covered: The foreman's time trap: paperwork, planning, and the mentorship gapWhy time-based apprenticeships create "bodies in the bucket"Complacency, decision-making, and getting the crew home safely"Looks good from my house." The phrase every lineman knows, but hatesThe Quanta Elite call and my first thought: "What did I mess up?"Why building the next generation matters more than titles ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠⁠ X: ⁠⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠⁠ ⚡️GUEST: ANDREW MORGAN⚡️ Instagram: ⁠⁠@andrewmorgan19 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠⁠[email protected]

What does it actually take to make it in the trades? What is the industry getting wrong about the next generation coming up behind us? In this episode, Ryan sits down with Josh Nieves, a New York City-raised IBEW Local 3 master electrician and the youngest card-carrying superintendent in the local's 15,000-member history. Josh's father, a Light Heavyweight Golden Glove champion turned signatory contractor, had maintenance contracts inside both World Trade Center towers on 9/11 and survived only because of a doctor's appointment that morning. Years later, at 24 years old, Josh got the call to be sub-foreman on the Freedom Tower while standing on top of the Empire State Building looking directly at the build. Together, Josh and Ryan dig into what a real union meeting looks like when brotherhood is alive and well, the leadership gap that's quietly eroding organized labor from the inside, why Josh sold his brand new house to buy a 160-acre farm in search of purpose, how he built a coaching practice and workforce development career from a single LinkedIn post, and what every contractor needs to hear about recruiting the next generation. Topics covered: The Freedom Tower call that came in while Josh was standing on the Empire State BuildingWhat an IBEW Local 3 union meeting felt like at 18: "a scene out of Goodfellas"The CBA gut check Josh ran with 80 field leaders, and what it revealed about union leadership todayWhy the skills gap is really a leadership gap and what the difference looks like in practiceThe boxing analogy every aspiring leader in the trades needs to hearWhy "construction workers don't want another pizza party", and what they actually wantHow to flip the recruiting question from "why should I hire you?" to "why should I come work for you?"Mental health in the trades and why the industry can't keep sitting back ✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ 📱FOLLOW THE PODCAST ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱 Instagram:  ⁠⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠ TikTok:  ⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠@powerlinepodcast⁠⁠ LinkedIn:  ⁠⁠⁠Powerline Podcast⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@Powerline-Podcast⁠⁠ X:  ⁠⁠@PowerlinePodcst⁠⁠ ⚡️GUEST: JOSH NIEVES⚡️ LinkedIn: ⁠Josh Nieves⁠ Instagram: ⁠@joshnieves_ 🎙️HOST: RYAN LUCAS🎙️ Instagram: ⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠@ryanwlucas⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Ryan Lucas⁠⁠ 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥 Email: ⁠[email protected]