In this episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk talks with Ryan Hogan, founder and CEO of Talent Harbor about how leaders in construction and building materials can recruit better employees and retain them longer.

Ryan shares the three critical phases of effective hiring.

You’ll also learn:

• Why generic job descriptions fail
• How to build a simple blueprint for every role
• How to write posts that attract the right people and repel the wrong ones
• Low‑cost, high‑impact retention strategies
• A powerful interview question that reveals attitude, ambition, and fit
• Early warning signs of disengagement and quiet quitting
• The critical impact of the first 72 hours and first 90 days of onboarding
• Creative, practical recruiting tactics specific to the building trades and construction

If you’re a leader who’s tired of constant turnover and wants to become a true talent magnet, this episode is packed with practical ideas you can start using this week.

Website: https://talentharbor.com/

Ryan Hogan email: ryan@talentharbor.com

In this episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk sits down with Robert Kennedy III, founder and CEO of Kennetik Kommunications, to explore how leaders can use storytelling to build trust, create clarity, and drive real change.

Robert shares practical ways leaders can use stories to:

• Make safety meetings and toolbox talks more engaging and memorable
• Strengthen trust with customers and prospects through testimonial-style stories
• Motivate crews, improve retention, and connect daily tasks to a bigger purpose

You’ll learn Robert’s simple EASE framework (Energy – Ask – Story – Explain) for structuring a compelling message and his powerful ‘cheat code.’

You’ll also learn:

• How to safely use personal and team stories.
• Avoid common mistakes with humor and references.
• How to build a personal “story bank” from everyday moments.
• Additional strategies, techniques, and tips to help you be a great storyteller.

If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t have any good stories” or worried that your presentations put people to sleep, this episode will give you concrete tools to communicate with more impact on the jobsite, in the boardroom, and beyond.

Website: https://robertkennedy3.me/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertkennedy3/

In this episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk explores a fundamental question faced by leaders: when should you give your team credit for accomplishments, and when (if ever) should you take credit yourself?

Drawing on real coaching conversations and timeless leadership wisdom, Randy emphasizes why team success is never about the individual leader, but about collective achievement.

Listeners will hear actionable tips on supporting and inspiring teams

• · Why humility is a crucial leadership trait that builds trust and respect.
• · Practical ways leaders support their teams.
• · How a leader’s behind-the-scenes work contributes to overall team success.
• · That team achievements are a collective success.
• · Inspiring examples and quotes underscoring the value of humility in leadership.
• · Randy’s personal mantra.
• · Leadership tips on achieving a positive, engaged work environment.

Join host Randy Goruk in this insightful episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast as he welcomes Scott Peper, CEO of Mobilization Funding. Together, they dive deep into operational discipline as an underrated tool for recruiting and retaining top talent in manufacturing, construction, and operations.

Scott draws from his extensive experience to reveal how a well-organized, safe, and empowering workplace drives morale, productivity, and company growth.

Listeners will discover practical leadership lessons and strategies for retaining employees.

Whether you’re a plant manager, business owner, or team leader, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you build a high-performing and engaged workforce.

Listeners will learn:

• Why operational discipline is crucial for employee retention and organizational success.
• The importance of leadership in creating a positive, safe, and empowering work environment.
• How clarity in standards, roles, and expectations drives engagement and reduces burnout.
• The role of workplace organization, cleanliness, and safety in communicating company values.
• How leaders can foster empowerment, encourage feedback, and involve employees in improvement.
• Practical strategies for managing growth responsibly, including cross-training and establishing strong systems/processes.
• The significance of genuine care from leaders and its impact on team morale and retention.
• Why “winning” and achieving excellence create a strong culture and competitive advantage.
• How to identify and address operational and leadership blind spots to avoid common pitfalls.
• Actionable tips for plant managers to connect employees’ daily work with customer outcomes and company mission.

Website: https://mobilizationfunding.com/

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-peper-9387288/

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MobilizationFunding

This episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast offers a practical and inspiring roadmap for leaders seeking to make a greater impact in 2026 and beyond.

Host Randy Goruk explores three core challenges facing today’s leaders while sharing actionable strategies that drive real results.

Listeners will discover how intentional leadership development, consistent engagement, and value-driven safety practices can transform organizations and teams.

The episode also introduces coaching programs, interactive courses, and resources designed to support leaders at every stage.

Listeners will learn:

• The three biggest pain points currently facing leaders and organizations.
• Why promoting technical experts without leadership training is risky.
• Practical ways leaders can improve retention and engagement in their teams.
• The role of consistent, present, and invested leadership in building positive work environments.
• How to shift safety messaging from rules-based to value-driven leadership.
• Solutions and actionable strategies for developing leaders at all levels through training and feedback.
• Resources available for leadership growth.
• The importance of small, consistent improvements in achieving effective leadership.

Join host Randy Goruk in this engaging episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, featuring industry innovator Kevin Hubschmann. Kevin shares lessons from his comedy and business career.

Discover how humor, storytelling, and improv can transform the way leaders connect, inspire creativity, and handle tough conversations.

Whether you’re a seasoned executive or new to leadership, this episode delivers actionable insights, memorable stories, and practical strategies for thriving in today's dynamic workplace.

Listeners will learn:

• How humor, storytelling, and comedy skills boost leadership effectiveness.
• The impact of active listening and empathetic communication on team dynamics.
• Why preparation is essential for both leaders and comedians, and how to improvise when plans change.
• How to handle mistakes and failures constructively and use them as learning opportunities.
• Methods to create a culture that embraces change, innovation, and learning from failure.
• Techniques for building trust and engagement within teams.
• Strategies for adapting to unexpected situations.
• Managing cynicism (“hecklers”) in the workplace.
• Practical ways to apply improvisational skills to day-to-day leadership challenges.

Kevin’s LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-hubschmann/

Website: https://www.laugh.events/

Newsletter: https://laughrx.laugh.events/

In this episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk welcomes award-winning media executive and author Andy Regal for a candid exploration of workplace bullying and toxic leadership.

Drawing from Andy’s extensive experience at top media organizations and his personal journey both as a target and leader, the conversation uncovers the realities of bullying across industries, the toll it takes on individuals and businesses, and the often-taboo nature of these issues.

You will learn:

• How to recognize the signs of workplace bullying and toxic work environments
• The difference between bullying and harassment (and why legal protections differ)
• The impact of toxic leadership on productivity, employee well-being, and business performance
• How “bully bosses” operate and why they often target loyal, productive employees
• Real-life anecdotes illustrating the effects of workplace bullying
• Strategies for employees to protect their psychological safety and self-worth
• Practical steps victims can take to cope, find support, and heal from bullying
• The importance of open communication, listening, and accountability in leadership
• How leaders and organizations can repair trust and foster healthier work cultures
• Insights from Andy Riegel’s personal journey and his book on thriving after workplace abuse

With compelling stories, expert wisdom, and heartfelt guidance, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to build a workplace where people and organizations can truly thrive.

Andy Regal’s Website: https://andyregal.com/

Andy’s Book is Surviving Bully Culture

In this inspiring episode of the Leadership and Learning Podcast, host Randy Goruk welcomes Dennis Bott, North American Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Element 5.

Dennis shares his remarkable journey from working in a family-owned lumber yard to becoming a leader in the mass timber industry. He discusses how “raising your hand” and how stepping up for new opportunities while embracing lifelong learning has propelled his career forward.

With actionable advice for both emerging and seasoned professionals, this episode offers valuable insights into advancing your career, building strong teams, and making a meaningful impact in your organization.

You will also learn:

· The value of “raising your hand” by volunteering for new challenges and opportunities, even when they’re outside your comfort zone.

· How a willingness to learn and adapt creates personal and professional growth.

· How to navigate difficult career transitions.

· How to leverage setbacks as learning opportunities.

· The importance of continuous learning, seeking feedback, and embracing mentorship.

· Approaches for supporting, motivating, and coaching team members with varying aspirations and comfort levels.

· Why cultivating a diverse, supportive team culture helps everyone thrive.

· How storytelling and open feedback can inspire, teach, and drive results in leadership.

· The necessity of learning from mistakes and adapting quickly to changing circumstances.

· Practical tips for team communication and staying organized in a fast-paced environment.

· Advice for younger professionals.

Website: https://elementfive.co/

LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennisbott/