Advertise on podcast: Give Us The Dirt

Rapid growth can build a business, but it can also expose the cracks in its foundation. In this episode of Give Us The Dirt, Brandon Lindsey sits down with Gabriel “Gabe” Powers, president of Powers Development Group in Jacksonville, Florida, to discuss his unexpected path into construction, starting his own company, and the growth that nearly cost him everything. Gabe shares an honest look at earning the respect of field crews, learning from criticism, taking ownership of mistakes, and discovering why a fun workplace needs clear expectations and accountability. From growing to $19 million in annual revenue to facing the possibility of closing his doors, he reflects on how faith, relationships, and a renewed focus on quality helped him move forward. This conversation offers valuable lessons for owners, managers, field leaders, and anyone working to build a stronger business and become a better leader.  www.hgcjobs.com Connect with us on social media! ➡️Facebook: / hoopaughgradingco ➡️Instagram: / hoopaughgrading ➡️TikTok: / hoopaughgrading ➡️LinkedIn: / hoopaugh-grading-llc  #construction #constructionindustry #podcast #constructionpodcast #leadershippodcast #entrepreneurship #companyculture #constructioncareers

What do world-class motocross and construction leadership have in common? More than you might think. In this episode of Give Us The Dirt, Brandon Lindsey sits down with Jake Nicholls, Group CEO of True Seven Group, a third-generation family business in Suffolk, England with more than 300 employees across earthworks, demolition, equipment rental, aggregates, concrete, and more. Jake’s path into construction was anything but traditional—before joining the family business, he built a career as a professional motocross racer, reaching fourth in the world before injuries and a changing perspective led him toward a completely new chapter. Instead of stepping directly into the corner office, Jake chose to start at the bottom. Working long days in the recycling yard, learning the business firsthand, and earning the respect of the people he knew he might one day lead. He shares how racing shaped his work ethic and humility, what it takes to lead and grow a multigenerational family business, and why building one unified team across different divisions has become one of his proudest accomplishments. Jake also dives into the challenges facing construction in the UK, adapting to changing markets, developing young talent, and how True Seven’s apprenticeship program is helping create the next generation of skilled operators. From racing around the world to moving dirt across England, Jake’s story is a reminder that great leadership isn’t inherited. it’s earned. ???????????? ????????‍♀️ ???????????????????????????????????????? ???????? ???????????????????????????? ???????????? ????????????????? ???????????????????? ???????????????????????? www.hgcjobs.com Connect with us on social media! ➡️Facebook: /hoopaughgradingco ➡️Instagram: /hoopaughgrading ➡️TikTok: /hoopaughgrading ➡️LinkedIn: /hoopaugh-grading-llc  #construction #constructionindustry #podcast #constructionpodcast #constructionleadership #familybusiness #earthworks #heavyequipment #motocross #workforcedevelopment #constructioncareers #nextgeneration

What does it take to prepare the next generation for an industry that’s changing faster than ever? In this episode of Give Us The Dirt, Brandon Lindsey sits down with leaders, Dr. Lingguang Song & Wayne Goff from UNC Charlotte’s construction program to discuss how education and industry can work together to develop construction professionals who are ready to contribute from day one. From hands-on learning and mandatory internships to leadership, communication, emerging technology, and AI, the conversation explores what today’s students need beyond the classroom. They discuss closing the gap between education and the jobsite, why understanding construction fundamentals still matters in an increasingly technology-driven industry, and how real-world experience helps students discover not only how to do the work, but where they belong within construction. With demand for qualified talent continuing to grow, preparing the future workforce means more than teaching technical skills. It means developing capable communicators, leaders, and problem-solvers who understand the work from the ground up. ???????? ????????‍♀️ ???????????????????????????????????????? ???????? ???????????????????????????? ???????????? ????????????????? ???????????????????? ???????????????????????? www.hgcjobs.com Connect with us on social media! ➡️Facebook: /hoopaughgradingco ➡️Instagram: /hoopaughgrading ➡️TikTok: /hoopaughgrading ➡️LinkedIn: /hoopaugh-grading-llc #construction #constructionindustry #podcast #constructionpodcast #constructioneducation #constructioncareers #constructionmanagement #constructionleadership #workforcedevelopment #futureofconstruction #nextgeneration #AIinconstruction #uncc #charlote #NC #college #Tradescollege #collegeprogram #Education

You don’t have to fit the traditional mold to build a successful career in construction. In this episode of Give Us The Dirt, Brandon Lindsey sits down with Sam Roth, Project Manager at Sam Corporation, who went from having no construction background to helping lead more than $100 million in active construction on one of North Carolina’s largest mixed-use developments, all within just a few years. Sam shares how curiosity, authenticity, strong relationships, and a willingness to do things that scare her helped shape her career. From overcoming imposter syndrome and earning credibility to learning from mistakes, leading diverse teams, mentoring the next generation, and challenging the “this is how we’ve always done it” mindset, Sam offers a fresh perspective on what leadership in construction can look like. Her message is simple: stay curious, be yourself, and never stop building people, not just projects. ????????  ????????‍♀️ ???????????????????????????????????????? ???????? ???????????????????????????? ???????????? ????????????????? ???????????????????? ???????????????????????? www.hgcjobs.com Connect with us on social media! ➡️Facebook: /hoopaughgradingco ➡️Instagram: /hoopaughgrading ➡️TikTok: /hoopaughgrading ➡️LinkedIn: /hoopaugh-grading-llc #construction #constructionindustry #podcast #constructionpodcast #womeninconstruction #constructionleadership #leadershippodcast #constructioncareers #nextgeneration

Strong projects are built by strong leaders, but great leadership isn't something you're born with. In this episode of Give Us The Dirt, Brandon Lindsey sits down with Gilbane leaders Fernando Torres, Troy Anthony, and Nick Davies to discuss what it takes to lead teams, earn respect, and build a culture where people and projects thrive. From developing young professionals and creating strong partnerships to balancing safety, communication, and production, they share the leadership lessons they've learned in the field—and the advice they wish they had when starting their careers. Whether you're an intern, field leader, project manager, or simply looking to become a better leader, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways you can apply every day. ???????? ????????‍♀️ Interested in joining our team? Apply today ???? www.hgcjobs.com Connect with us on social media! ➡️ Facebook: /hoopaughgradingco ➡️ Instagram: /hoopaughgrading ➡️ TikTok: /hoopaughgrading ➡️ LinkedIn: /hoopaugh-grading-llc #construction #constructionindustry #podcast #constructionpodcast #leadership #leadershippodcast #constructioncareers #careerdevelopment #internships #teambuilding

In this episode of Give Us the Dirt, Brandon sits down with licensed therapist and construction consultant Craig Watson to discuss why investing in people is one of the most important investments a company can make. Together, they explore leadership development, company culture, communication, and the role mental wellness plays in building stronger teams. Craig shares practical strategies for developing future leaders, creating workplaces where employees feel valued, and fostering a culture that drives long-term success. Whether you're leading a crew, managing a business, or looking to grow as a leader yourself, this episode offers valuable insights that can help you build something greater than the projects themselves. ????????

In this episode of Give Us The Dirt, Herb Sargent returns to share what life has been like since transitioning his company to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). He reflects on his own growth as a leader, the lessons he's learned from empowering others, and why building a strong company culture starts long before handing over the keys. This conversation explores what it means to create a workplace where teammates are trusted, encouraged to lead, and invested in something greater than themselves. Whether you're a business owner, a leader, or someone striving to make a lasting impact, Herb's insights offer a thoughtful perspective on leadership, legacy, and building a company that continues to thrive for generations.

In this episode of Give Us The Dirt, John shares the side of the journey that often goes unspoken. He opens up about trauma, addiction, mental health struggles, and the personal battles that can exist behind a successful career. Through vulnerability, surrender, and recovery, John found a path to growth and purpose. This conversation explores the intersection of the work and the person doing it and offering an honest look at resilience, healing, and what it means to keep showing up when life gets difficult. Whether you're in construction, leadership, or simply navigating your own challenges, John's story is a powerful reminder that growth is possible and that sharing our struggles can help others find hope in their own journey. ????‍♂️????

In this episode of Built to Lead, our host Brandon sits down with three powerful women shaping the future of construction at Hoopaugh Grading Company. Katie, Director of Team Development, Jessica, Senior Recruiter, and Salma, a rising Superintendent, share their real, unfiltered journeys. How they got their start, the challenges they faced, and the moments that pushed them to level up. From stepping onto job sites for the first time to building confidence in leadership roles, this conversation dives into the importance of mentorship, community, and finding your people in spaces where representation still matters. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to carve your own path, grow in your career, and stand solid in your purpose this one’s for you.

What does it take to build a career in construction? For some, it starts in the classroom. For others, it begins in the trench. In this episode of Give Us the Dirt, three HGC team members reflect on how their individual journeys shaped their paths into the industry. From earning a degree in project management and navigating the challenges of transitioning into the field, to beginning hands-on utility work at just 18 years old and rising into senior leadership, this conversation highlights the value of both education and experience. Together, they discuss how passion, persistence, and practical knowledge influence growth, credibility, and leadership on today’s jobsites. It’s an honest look at how different starting points can lead to meaningful, long-term careers in construction — and how each path brings its own strengths to the table.

For more than 70 years, Taplin Group has done one thing exceptionally well: they’ve built a legacy that lasts. What started as a small, family-run sewer cleaning business in Kalamazoo has grown into a trusted partner on complex underground and environmental projects all without losing sight of the people, culture, and standards that made them who they are. In this episode of Give Us The Dirt, Brandon Lindsey sits down with Mitchell Taplin, fourth-generation Training Director, and Alexis Davis, Director of Marketing & Growth, to unpack what it really means to carry a multi-generational legacy. From early days on the job, to “first in, last out” moments on major projects, to shaping a culture that puts people first. They dig into how patience, responsibility, and intentional growth create a company built to last.  If you want the inside scoop on family-driven leadership, training as a growth engine, and how to grow big without losing your soul, this episode is for you.

Host Brandon sits down with CEO Brian McManus for a real conversation about one of the most significant milestones in the company’s history, the transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Brian reflects on what 2025 has looked like for the company, including the challenges brought on by relentless rain and the setbacks that tested operations, timelines, and morale. At the heart of the conversation is what ESOP ownership truly means: shared success, long-term financial security, and building a company that teammates can grow with and retire from. Brian shares why transitioning to an ESOP was such an important step, how it aligns with the company’s values, and why investing in employees as owners strengthens both the culture and the future of the business.  The episode also highlights the role of the company’s Academy in preparing teammates for that future. Providing education, hands-on training, and clear pathways for growth within the organization. From weathering setbacks to creating opportunity through ownership, this episode offers a transparent look at how the company is building resilience, accountability, and a legacy that belongs to everyone.

In this episode, host Brandon sits down with Michael Botts, President Botts Grading LLC who knows firsthand that building a business isn’t just about iron and machines. It’s about people. Michael opens up about launching a construction company alongside family already in the industry, navigating the blessings and the tension that comes with working blood-deep in business. From leadership lessons to real talk about trust, growth, and accountability, he breaks down why investing in your crew matters more than owning the flashiest equipment on the yard.  If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build something that lasts,within a company and a family. This conversation hits home. From leadership and accountability to taking care of your crew, he explains why investing in your people will always matter more than having the flashiest equipment on the yard.

In this episode, Brandon sits down with the founder of Construction Video Pros and Heightened Creative, a leading media specialist whose work brings the construction industry to life through storytelling and visual strategy. Together, they explore the unique challenges of producing authentic content in a fast-paced, blue-collar environment. From navigating different company cultures to showcasing both the strengths and shortcomings he’s witnessed across the industry. He shares his approach to helping field crews and leadership feel comfortable on camera, creating space for voices that aren’t always heard but deserve recognition. The conversation highlights how thoughtful media production strengthens trust, enhances communication, and positively impacts companies, customers, and the workers who build every project from the ground up. Tune in for an insightful look at how storytelling is reshaping the future of construction communication. ????????️

Brandon welcomes back the visionary entrepreneur and CEO of Buildwitt, Aaron Witt, for an eye-opening dive into the world of construction. From projects across the globe to the challenges at home, Aaron shares his unique perspective on how the U.S. stacks up against international practices. What are we missing? Where are we excelling? And most importantly, how can we elevate the construction game in America? Tune in and discover the lessons the world can teach us about building smarter, faster, and better?