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?

 In this heart-centered episode, host Brandon sits down with faith-driven entrepreneur Stephen Phelan to dive into the foundation of a mortgage company that’s anything but traditional. Stephen shares how love, grace, and unwavering faith are the true drivers behind his team’s success and how those same principles can transform any business from the inside out. From cultivating a culture rooted in support to leading with purpose, this convo explores how loving your people first can build more than just a companyit can build a legacy.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, believer, or just looking to lead with more heart, this one’s for you.

 Join host Brandon as he sits down with CEO, speaker, and author Gary Frey to dive deep into the real battle with imposter syndrome. They’ve met a few times before, but this time Gary opens up about what inspired his book Silence the Imposter — sharing his personal struggles, the moments that held him back, and the tools he used to overcome self-doubt. Plus, they break down what imposter syndrome looks like in the high-pressure world of construction and how you can silence those inner doubts to own your success.

This episode is for anyone ready to stop feeling like a fraud and start stepping into their power. Don’t miss it!

 Join host Brandon as he sits down with CEO, speaker, and author Gary Frey to dive deep into the real battle with imposter syndrome. They’ve met a few times before, but this time Gary opens up about what inspired his book Silence the Imposter — sharing his personal struggles, the moments that held him back, and the tools he used to overcome self-doubt. Plus, they break down what imposter syndrome looks like in the high-pressure world of construction and how you can silence those inner doubts to own your success. This episode is for anyone ready to stop feeling like a fraud and start stepping into their power. Don’t miss it!

Rain or shine, construction never stops—especially at Hoopaugh Grading Company. In this episode, host Brandon sits down once again with Brian McManus, owner of HGC, to unpack the challenges of 2024, including the countless rain days that tested the industry. Brian shares how the company navigated the ups and downs, the lessons learned along the way, and what exciting projects and ambitious goals are on the horizon for 2025.

If you're interested in leadership, resilience, and what it takes to push forward in the construction world, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

“I started in construction with nothing. Through the Valley of Darkness, my employees were still there with me. Even when I couldn’t give bonuses. Now, I’m giving my company to my employees."

Our host, Brandon, sits down with Ryan Schmitt, CEO of Petticoat-Schmitt, to talk about his journey from working in the construction industry to building a thriving company—and why he chose to sell it to his employees through an ESOP.

In this episode, host Brandon sits down with payroll specialist Kevin Monaghan to explore the powerful connection between payroll strategies and employee loyalty. Kevin shares his expertise on crafting customizable payroll plans that align with a company’s growth trajectory, all while fostering a sense of legacy among teammates. Discover how intentional payroll practices can not only enhance employee satisfaction but also create a lasting impact on organizational culture. Whether you’re a business leader or HR professional, tune in for insights that could transform your workplace into a thriving community of loyal, engaged teammates!