Pressure Tested

In this episode of Pressure Tested, host Kelly Roberts dives into the remarkable career journey of Julie Strong, CEO of a women-owned engineering and construction company. Julie shares her non-linear path, starting with a psychology and Spanish degree, navigating psychiatry research and the TV industry before joining her family's business, TD Industries.

Listen as Julie recounts the challenges and triumphs of working in a male-dominated industry and eventually co-founding and leading C1S Group with her husband. She offers insights into the niche world of critical environment construction, building highly specialized clean rooms for semiconductor manufacturing, where precision and meticulous execution are paramount.

Julie also discusses the evolution of her company, expanding into new construction projects like the unique "Bomb Factory" venue. She emphasizes the importance of people and core values in her business, highlighting their servant leadership philosophy and focus on attracting and retaining the right talent.

Tune in for a candid conversation about the pressures of entrepreneurship, the delicate balance of working with a spouse, and the strategies C1S Group employs for growth, maintaining a strong company culture, and navigating the complexities of the construction industry in Dallas. Julie also shares her perspectives on work-from-home policies, the challenges women face in leadership, and the importance of building trust and fostering open communication within a team, drawing from her experience with the Traction framework and "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team."

In this insightful episode, we delve into the multifaceted journey of Erin England, a former Big Law finance attorney who took a leap of faith into the world of entrepreneurship. Erin candidly shares her career progression, from her small-town Texas roots and navigating the demanding world of corporate law to the pivotal moment that sparked the creation of her innovative company, Diaper Concierge.

Listeners will hear about the intense pressure and often unsustainable lifestyle of Big Law, including the relentless billable hour expectations that ultimately led Erin to seek a different path. She recounts the unexpected layoff that became a catalyst for self-reflection and the realization that the traditional legal career wasn't fulfilling her.

The conversation then shifts to the inspiring story behind Diaper Concierge, born from a relatable moment of parental frustration – the lack of readily available diapers in public spaces. Erin passionately describes her vision to install sleek, digital vending machines offering essential baby supplies in airports, stadiums, and other high-traffic venues.

Erin doesn't shy away from the challenges of entrepreneurship, detailing the often humorous and frustrating experience of pitching her undeniably necessary service to skeptical executives, predominantly middle-aged men. She shares anecdotes about overcoming resistance and the surprising insights gained along the way, including the unexpected popularity of baby wipes in men's restrooms.

Beyond the business venture, Erin reflects on the societal undervaluation of mothers and the systemic issues that contribute to the lack of basic amenities for parents on the go. She also touches upon her experiences as a woman in law and business, discussing the barriers women still face in reaching leadership positions and the importance of advocating for their needs.

Finally, Erin shares her ambitious future plans for Diaper Concierge, aiming for national expansion and dreaming of partnerships with major entertainment and consumer goods companies. This episode offers a compelling blend of personal career evolution, entrepreneurial grit, and a passionate drive to solve a universal problem for parents everywhere.

Join Kelly Roberts on the "Pressure Tested" podcast for an insightful conversation with Renda Matthew, Dallas Market President for Truist. Renda shares her unconventional journey from aspiring English teacher to a leading figure in the banking industry, emphasizing the importance of building strong client relationships and continuous learning. She demystifies banking titles and explains her role in community engagement, team leadership, and business development.

Renda, an advocate for community involvement, discusses her passion for children, women, and education, and how she balances her demanding career with extensive board work, including Parkland Health, United to Learn, and Nexus Family Recovery Center. She stresses the significance of aligning personal values with community service and advises aspiring board members to start by volunteering.

For entrepreneurs, Renda highlights the critical need for financial literacy and open communication with bankers. She candidly addresses the myth of work-life balance, advocating for a realistic approach that acknowledges the shifting priorities in different life stages. She encourages women to define their boundaries and recognize when to push harder or step back.

The conversation delves into the challenges women face, including imposter syndrome and the persistent gender gap in the workplace. Renda shares her personal experiences and the importance of choosing a supportive life partner and a company that aligns with one's values. She also discusses the impact of travel on her perspective and her insights into the Dallas-Fort Worth economic landscape, including the rise of the Texas Stock Exchange and the implications of current tariffs.

Join us for a conversation with Carmen Autry, President of NTD Mechanical. Carmen leads NTD Mechanical, a trusted DFW contractor with over 20 years of experience, specializing in HVAC, piping, and plumbing for diverse projects. Her commitment to excellence drives the company to deliver high-quality mechanical construction services, including plan and spec, design-build, and maintenance, across North Texas. During Women in Construction Week 2025, she shares her story.

Join us as we sit down with Rachel Kennedy, Chief Light Keeper of Southern Lighthouse. Rachel helps construction leaders think outside the box when it comes to recruiting and marketing. She shares her perspective on why leaders talk about their personal brand on LinkedIn, as well as her dive into entrepreneurship.

Join us as we sit down with Kelly Smith, CEO of All Tech Electric, a leading electrical subcontractor in Texas and Ohio. Kelly shares her perspective on why women should play golf, discusses how she's combating the "Field vs. Office" mentality, and the two Kellys explore how to overcome decision fatigue.

Join us as we sit down with Lorie Welch, CEO of Woodwright Hardwood Floor Company, a leading hardwood flooring subcontractor in DFW. Lorie shares her inspiring journey from homeschooling her children to becoming a successful leader in the construction industry. We dive into the challenges and triumphs she's faced, including navigating a male-dominated field, working with family, and managing a growing business.

Attorney Tonya Johannsen of Canterbury, PC joins the Pressure Tested Podcast to discuss various construction topics, including the intricacies of negotiating retainage and the labor shortage. We also learn about Tonya's family and their roots in construction and Texas.

Commercial banking whiz Kate Kennedy joins us on the Pressure Tested Podcast today. Get ready to hear about her journey as a Polish immigrant, her family's construction business, and the ever-present juggle of work and motherhood.

Buckle up, folks, because Tricia Kennedy, Director of Dispute Resolutions at the American Airlines Pilots Association, is in the hot seat on the Pressure Tested Podcast today! We're about to take flight with discussions on negotiation, the pilot shortage, and even the world of blue-collar entrepreneurship.