Construct-ive Conversations

From Cold Call to Chief Dirt Nerd: Building the Future of the Dirt World with Aaron Witt

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.

Leading with Extreme Ownership: 12 Principles for Life and Leadership with Rob Jones (Part 2)

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.

From Devastation to Determination: Rob Jones on Resilience and Leadership (Part 1)

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.

Building Hope: Transforming Lives Through Workforce Development in West Virginia

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.

David Turin: Lessons in Leadership, Failure, and Mining Reclamation (Part 2)

In this exciting continuation of Construct-ive Conversations, I sit down with legendary gold miner Dave Turin for part two of our discussion. We dive deep into his journey as an entrepreneur and father, exploring how he instills a spirit of business ownership in his children and grandchildren. Dave shares inspiring stories of reclamation in mining, highlighting stunning transformations of former mining sites into beautiful parks and golf courses. Along the way, he reflects on the importance of embracing failure as a stepping stone to success and offers invaluable advice on enjoying the journey. Join us as we uncover lessons from the gold mining world and how they apply to life and business. Don't miss this enlightening episode that promises to spark inspiration.