Construct-ive Conversations

In this episode of Constructive Conversations, host Eddie Thompson sits down with Brian Fielkow—author, speaker, and safety consultant with a 30-year executive career spanning recycling, waste management, and logistics/trucking—to talk about why safety should be treated as a growth strategy, not just a cost of doing business.

Brian shares his unconventional path from corporate lawyer to trucking company owner, and how that journey shaped his belief that safety is leader-driven rather than a compliance checkbox. The conversation covers the hidden costs of workplace incidents beyond insurance loss runs, how a strong safety culture helps construction firms win more bids and attract better talent, and why unconditional respect for process (and a healthy aversion to shortcuts) is critical on the job site. Brian also breaks down the hierarchy of controls and explains why PPE is really the last line of defense, introduces the concept of "just culture" for responding to incidents fairly, and discusses how leaders can build an employee-owned safety culture without becoming performative or overreactive.

Brian is the author of Making Safety Happen, Leading People Safely, and Driving to Perfection, and offers on-demand courses through his website, brianfielkow.com.

In this episode of Constructive Conversations, host Eddie Thompson steps outside the world of construction finance to talk about something universal: how to live better. His guest is Ryan Campbell, the Australian-born, Nashville-based keynote speaker who made history at 19 as the youngest pilot — and first teenager — to fly solo around the world.

Ryan shares the full arc of his story: the two years of planning and fundraising that got a "normal Aussie kid" to the start line, the 24,000-nautical-mile journey across 15 countries, and the devastating plane crash two years later that left him the sole survivor, with a spinal cord injury and a diagnosis of complete paraplegia. From that rock bottom, Ryan rebuilt his life — learning to walk again, returning to the skies, and discovering, with the help of an impulsively purchased 1959 pink Cadillac, a philosophy that now anchors his keynotes worldwide.

Eddie and Ryan dig into the "seesaw" of balance (with a nod to Bluey), why moments of joy aren't a luxury but a crucial tool for resilience and mental health, and practical steps anyone can take today — from seeking professional help to running a "joy audit." Plus: Ryan's Nashville restaurant picks and a spirited debate over Australia's greatest exports.

Learn more about Ryan and his book, Born to Fly, at RyanCampbell.co.

In this episode of Constructive Conversations, I continue my engaging dialogue with Ed Stelter of Faulconer Construction, diving deeper into the critical themes of data integrity, artificial intelligence, and leadership within the construction industry. Ed shares his insights on the challenges of maintaining accurate data and how it impacts decision-making processes. He emphasizes the vital role of AI in enhancing operational efficiency but warns that its effectiveness hinges on the quality of input data. We also explore the importance of leadership in fostering a culture of accountability and connection among team members. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, this episode offers valuable perspectives on leveraging technology and leadership to drive success in construction.

In this episode of Construct-ive Conversations, I sit down with Ed Stelter, Vice President of Business Development at Faulconer Construction. Ed shares his fascinating journey in the construction industry, which began over 40 years ago in his father's woodshop. From laboring on construction sites to becoming a leader in business development, Ed's insights are invaluable. We discuss the importance of relationships in building successful construction firms and how technology, particularly data strategies, is transforming the industry. Ed also highlights the significance of understanding the craft from the ground up and the role of mentorship in shaping future leaders. Tune in for a compelling discussion that underscores the human element in construction and the wisdom gained through experience.

In this episode of Construct-ive Conversations, I sit down with Alex Shaw from Scott Insurance to discuss a crucial yet often misunderstood aspect of the construction industry: safety as a byproduct rather than a standalone strategy. With over a decade of experience advising contractors, Alex shares insights into how fostering a genuine culture of safety can enhance risk performance and employee well-being. We explore the importance of hands-on training, the dangers of compliance-driven mindsets, and the necessity of individual accountability in managing risk. Join us as we unpack these critical topics and offer actionable advice to help contractors create a safer and more effective workplace.

In this episode of Construct-ive Conversations, I'm joined by Wally Adamchik, a renowned leadership coach in the construction industry. We delve into the essential qualities that make effective leaders and discuss the importance of developing people on purpose. Wally shares his insights on the four core beliefs he advocates, emphasizing that every day can be an opportunity for improvement and that everyone has untapped potential. We explore the key challenges leaders face, including the delicate balance between managing workloads and leading teams. Wally's unique perspective, drawn from his experiences as a former U.S. Marine Corps pilot and consultant, offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills in construction. Tune in for actionable strategies to build better leaders and foster a culture of growth and accountability.

In this episode of Constructive Conversations, host Eddie Thompson of Brown Edwards Company sits down with Aaron Witt — founder of BuildWitt, host of the Dirt Talk podcast, and self-proclaimed Chief Dirt Nerd. Aaron shares the unlikely origin story of his career in heavy civil construction, from cold-calling a contractor after high school to building one of the industry's most recognized media and training brands. The two discuss how Aaron grew BuildWitt from a one-man social media venture into a company focused on workforce development, daily training software, and the annual Dirt World Summit. They also dig into the industry's workforce challenges, the untapped potential of the skilled trades, lessons from construction sites around the globe, and Aaron's concern that America is falling behind on infrastructure investment. The episode wraps up with a lightning round covering favorite equipment, book recommendations, and what Aaron would say to every contractor leader in America.

Host Eddie Thompson talks with Rob Jones, a retired Marine Corps veteran, Paralympian, and leadership instructor with Echelon Front. After losing both legs in an IED explosion in Afghanistan in 2010, Rob went on to run 31 marathons in 31 days, bike across the country, and medal at the London Paralympic Games.

In this episode, Rob shares how he became an instructor with Echelon Front and discusses the 12 principles of extreme ownership from the book by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. Rob and Eddie explore how concepts like taking ownership, checking your ego, prioritizing and executing, and practicing discipline can transform both professional and personal life. Rob also discusses his book "Put Your Legs On" and offers practical insights on leadership, decision-making, and overcoming adversity.

In part 1 of this inspiring episode of Constructive Conversations, host Eddie Thompson interviews Rob Jones, a Marine Corps veteran, Paralympian, and leadership instructor with Echelon Front. After losing both legs in Afghanistan, Rob transformed his adversity into extraordinary achievement—cycling across America and running 31 marathons in 31 days to raise money for veteran charities. As the author of "Put Your Legs On," Rob shares powerful insights on resilience, extreme ownership, and finding purpose through service to others.

In this episode of Construct-ive Conversations, I sit down with Deb Harris from Jobs and Hope West Virginia to discuss the transformative impact of workforce development in the state. Deb shares her journey from education to leading a program designed to help individuals overcome barriers to employment, particularly those in recovery or with justice involvement. We explore the evolution of Jobs and Hope since its inception in 2019, the range of training programs offered—especially in construction—and the partnerships that enhance their mission. Deb emphasizes the importance of hope in the workforce development process, highlighting success stories and the ongoing efforts to connect participants with meaningful employment. Tune in to learn how Jobs and Hope is not only building skills but also reshaping lives in West Virginia.