Keepin' The Lights On

Explore the world of industrial automation with Brian Crawford on "Keepin' The Lights On." Discover insights into manpower challenges and innovative solutions. Tune in to learn how industries are evolving.

Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.

Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.

To reach Brian Crawford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-crawford-92b92018/

Learn more about Shingle And Gibb: https://www.shingle.com/

Franklinville Inn: https://www.thefranklinvilleinn.com/
Photos of Franklinville Inn from Franklinville.com 

To see the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VqtKX4OMfYU

Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.

We explore the vital role of manufacturer reps in the electrical industry, their evolving responsibilities, and future trends including technology, demand generation, and strategic planning with Jim Johnson, CEO of NEMRA.

Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.

To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: [email protected]

To reach Jim Johnson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcjohnson/

Learn more about NEMRA: https://www.nemra.org/
Columbia Club: https://columbia-club.org/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/vlmz5dTPHTM

In this episode Todd speaks with Hal Shaffer and Chris Filardi, creators of the inspiring show, Renovation Hunters. The show focuses on outdoor family property renovations, community impact, and the importance of relationships and teamwork in complex projects.

I’m creating a show newsletter to help me communicate with you the listener/viewer. Please click on the link to sign up for the newsletter: https://www.graybar.com/podcast

Thank you for listening and please take a moment to rate, and review our show on your favorite app.

Renovation Hunters: https://www.renovationhunters.com/

Submit a cabin for possible renovation: https://www.outdoorchannel.com/content/renovationhunters/459762

Find Renovation Hunter network: https://app.myoutdoortv.com/series/renovationhunters

Hal Shaffer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hal-shaffer-70b28457/

Chris Filardi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherfilardi/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/rz3FDvFBJJE

B-Roll Photos and Video are from Renovationhunters.com 2026

Heath Blackburn from Wheeler Electric reveals how foremen are pivotal in transforming company culture. By engaging foremen in the Foreman Academy, they fostered a culture of continuous learning and collaboration, proving that foremen are key to driving meaningful change and growth.

Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give your insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe here on Graybar.com.

To reach Heath Blackburn on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/heath-blackburn-23804a213/

Learn more about Wheeler Electric: https://www.wheelerelectric.com/

7N Ranch Resort: https://www.7nranch.com/farmhouse-table-restaurant

YouTube: https://youtu.be/Hgf36-a9vv0

In this episode, Max Galloway, VP of Max Electric Inc., shares insights on building strong relationships between electrical contractors and general contractors, navigating complex contracts, and improving collaboration in the construction industry.

Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give your insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe here on Graybar.com.

Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.

To reach Max on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-gallaway-49a78438/

Learn more about Max Electric: https://maxelectric-kc.com/

YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/QjB4tVmHkNQ

In this conversation, Todd Reed engages with Andy Herbert and Rachel Gass from Be Kind Lyfe Consulting to explore the significance of company culture, particularly the distinction between being 'nice' and 'kind.' They discuss how a positive culture can impact business performance, employee engagement, and innovation.

The K.I.N.D framework is introduced as a guide for fostering a supportive workplace environment. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness in leadership, the need for continuous improvement, and practical steps for organizations to enhance their culture. Real-world examples illustrate the transformative power of kindness in the workplace. Thank you for listening/watching.

Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give your insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe here on Graybar dot com:  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#podcastsubscribe?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=keepin-the-lights-on-2026&utm_content=kindvsnice.

Learn more about Be Kind Lyfe: https://bkndlyfe.squarespace.com/

View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/55QL0hUTpRg

In this episode I speak with Leah Mack, a project manager at Allison Smith, about the implementation of AI in the construction industry. We discuss the challenges and successes Leah has experienced while integrating AI into her daily work, the role of the Innovation Institute in her journey, and the importance of company culture in fostering innovation. Leah shares insights on developing AI training for her company, best practices for using AI, and recommendations for contractors looking to adopt AI technologies.

Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give your insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe here on Graybar.com. 

Leah is a project manager at Allison-Smith Company.  She works in the Charleston, SC office and has been there for 8 years.  Most of her work in project management has been for hyperscale data center construction, both greenfield and renovation work.  Prior to that, she was in consulting engineering for 6 years and is currently 1 of only 2 licensed PEs in South Carolina with the NCQLP lighting certification.  She is a member of the Franklin Cohort of the NECA Innovation Institute, in addition to serving on the Women In NECA task force.

Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.

Learn more about Allison-Smith: https://allisonsmith.com/

Momo’s in the Park: https://momocharleston.com/

Electri International Report on AI Implementation Roadmap: AI Implementation Roadmap for EC – Video introduction: https://vimeo.com/1097929862?fl=pl&fe=sh  

Research Report: https://www.electri.org/product/artificial-intelligence-implementation-roadmap-for-electrical-contractors/

YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/75F3I1kPVU0

In this episode, Todd Reed speaks with Kassy Slaughter about the current state of the construction industry, focusing on labor shortages, the impact of technology, and the importance of company culture. They discuss the challenges faced by the industry, including misconceptions about construction careers, the need for a cultural shift, and the role of data and AI in improving workforce engagement. Kassy emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive work environment and the need for actionable steps to attract and retain talent in the construction sector. Kassy shares about one of her favorite restaurants, Iron Bay in Marquette, MI and talks about her favorite pastime, kayaking.
 
Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review the show on your favorite app.

Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.

Iron Bay Restaurant in Marquette: https://ironbaymqt.com/ 

To reach Kassy Slaughter on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassy-slaughter-morris-59164020/

Learn more about Procore: https://www.procore.com/ O

n YouTube: https://youtu.be/KJT9ftw3K8I

In this episode, I speak with Brian Yetter, a prefabrication manager, about the growing importance of prefabrication in the construction industry. We discuss the challenges and successes of implementing prefab, the significance of communication and collaboration among teams, and how technology is leveraged to improve processes. Brian shares insights on building a culture of innovation and the importance of motivating the next generation of workers in the industry.

Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app. 

REQUEST FROM TODD, YOUR HOST: This is a one-way medium. I share this interview with you but I don’t have an easy way for you to share your thoughts and ideas about the show. I’m announcing a my new Keepin’ The Lights On newsletter. I will summarize episodes, provide insight into future episodes, and of course share a new restaurant idea. Click the Subscribe button and let’s start the conversation. https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=ShowNotes&utm_campaign=2026+Podcast&utm_id=PodcastPanduit&utm_content=068+Brian+Yetter

To reach Brian Yetter on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-yetter-a6b1802b4/

Learn more about Hatzel and Buehler Prefabrication: https://www.hatzelandbuehler.com/prefabrication/

YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/2RsDFMx64ho

To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: [email protected]

Be a Keepin’ The Lights On Insider. Here’s a chance for me to hear what is important to you so I can bring the best content to this show. In addition, I’ll update you on guests, new shows, and of course fun restaurants from around the world. Click here to sign up: https://www.graybar.com/podcast#podcastsubscribe?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=keepin-the-lights-on-2026&utm_content=shawn_ryan  

In this episode of Keeping the Lights On, I speak with Shawn Ryan, CEO of BuildTime, to discuss the complexities of time tracking in the construction industry. They explore the challenges contractors face, particularly regarding union rules and compliance, and how traditional methods like spreadsheets are inadequate for modern needs.

Shawn shares insights into BuildTime's innovative solutions designed to simplify time tracking and ensure compliance, emphasizing the importance of user experience and the cultural shift required for technology adoption in the field. The conversation highlights the motivation behind their work and the impact of technology on improving efficiency and accountability in construction. 

Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and remember to become an podcast Insider by clicking on the link to join our newsletter group: https://www.graybar.com/podcast#podcastsubscribe?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=keepin-the-lights-on-2026&utm_content=shawn_ryan

Learn more about BuildTime: https://buildtime.us/

To reach Shawn Ryan on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-ryan/

BuildTime on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildtime/

Taqueria del Sol: http://www.taqueriadelsol.com/index.html

YouTube version: https://youtu.be/TVoKOSz8__4