(00:00:00) Navigating Disruptions and Resilience
(00:04:28) Leadership Challenges in Uncertain Times
(00:07:03) Communication: The Key to Team Performance
(00:11:17) Understanding Generational Differences in the Workplace
(00:13:17) The Role of Empathy in Leadership
(00:15:34) Building Resilience in Leadership
(00:20:45) Connecting Daily Work to a Larger Purpose

In this conversation, Maureen O'Brien, CEO of the Global Wisdom and Leadership Forum, discusses the challenges leaders face in today's uncertain business climate. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, effective communication, and empathy in leadership.

O'Brien shares insights on generational differences in the workforce and the need for leaders to connect their teams' daily work to a larger purpose. The discussion highlights practical steps leaders can take to foster a culture of innovation and adaptability within their organizations.

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: podcast@graybar.com

YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/NEufR_-TZcA

GlobalWLF Webiste:  www.globalwlf.com

HBDI (Herrmann Brain Dominance Instrument):  https://www.globalwlf.com/leadership-development

Maureen’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureenobrienceo/

Maureen’s book:  “26 Points of Light” – Illuminating One Cancer Survivor’s Journey from Diagnosis to Remission”   https://www.amazon.com/Points-Light-Illuminating-Survivors-Diagnosis/dp/1734959010

In 26 Points of Light, supporters across O'Brien's community of care—family, friends, coworkers, extended family, and even medical staff—offer their unique experiences of the journey they walked with Maureen and share the knowledge and inspiration they gained along the way. You'll learn:

• How each caregiver was uniquely impacted by the diagnosis
• Why the nurse–patient relationship is so important to anyone undergoing recovery
• How to "quarterback" a loved one's caregiving team
• Why true belief in cancer remission is crucial for both patient and support system
• Why whatever you have to give is exactly the right thing to offer

With its multitude of voices and perspectives, 26 Points of Light is a cancer caregiver book like no other. If someone you love has received an unexpected diagnosis, this book will help you deliver constant, crucial encouragement. And for those experiencing it firsthand, it will illuminate their true impact on others and remind them that they are not alone.

Maureen’s BIO: Maureen O’Brien is a nationally recognized speaker, bestselling author, and the CEO of the Global Wisdom & Leadership Forum. With over 30 years of experience in leadership, sales, and business...

(00:00:00) The Importance of Lighting in Architecture
(00:05:54) Understanding the Role of a Lighting Designer
(00:11:44) Impact of Ceiling and Surface Materials on Lighting
(00:17:38) The Influence of Millwork and Partitions on Lighting Design
(00:23:25) Designing for the End User: Age and Task Considerations
(00:29:19) Future Trends in Lighting Design
(00:35:26) The Human Element in Lighting Design

In this conversation, Lisa Reed, Owner and CEO of Reed Burkett Lighting Design, discusses the 10 surprising things that impact lighting. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration among various design professionals and the need for lighting to be considered early in the design process. The discussion covers how different materials, surfaces, and user needs impact lighting design, as well as future trends in the industry that focus on health and well-being. Lisa shares insights on the complexities of lighting design and the human element that drives her passion for the field.
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: podcast@graybar.com

Thank you to our sponsor, CURRENT:  https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/current/c/sup-ge-lighting?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=ep-62-Lighting-Lisa-Reed

To reach Lisa Reed on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-j-reed-b198154/

Learn more about Reed Burkett Lighting Design:  https://rbldi.com/

Cyrano’s Bistro: https://cyranos.com/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/bpgvuIP0AS0

(00:00:00) The Importance of Infrastructure in AI Computing
(00:04:53) Challenges of Power Consumption in AI
(00:11:11) Retrofitting vs. New Data Centers for AI
(00:20:28) Optimizing Power Distribution for High-Density Racks
(00:25:10) Emerging Cooling Technologies for AI Workloads
(00:29:22) Structured Cabling Solutions for AI
(00:35:59) Future-Proofing Data Centers for AI Adoption
(00:38:21) Motivation and Passion in AI Infrastructure

In this conversation, Todd Reed speaks with Bob Wagner, Senior Development Manager at Panduit, about the critical infrastructure supporting AI computing. They explore the challenges of power consumption and heat generation in data centers, the importance of optimizing power distribution, and the emerging cooling technologies necessary for managing AI workloads.

The discussion also covers the differences between retrofitting existing data centers and building new ones, the role of structured cabling in simplifying installations, and strategies for future-proofing data centers to meet the demands of AI. Bob shares his passion for innovation and problem-solving in the rapidly evolving landscape of AI infrastructure.

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: podcast@graybar.com

Thank you to our sponsor, Panduit:  https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/panduit/c/sup-panduit?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=Ep+61+AI+Cooling&utm_campaign=podcast-main-page&utm_id=PodcastPanduit

To reach Bob Wagner on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-wagner-57a5b46/

Learn more about Panduit: https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/panduit/c/sup-panduit?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=Ep+61+AI+Cooling&utm_campaign=podcast-main-page&utm_id=PodcastPanduit

Meson Sabika (Spanish Tapas): www.Mesonsabika.com

Hesed House, a shelter for the unhoused in Aurora, IL: www.hesedhouse.org

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/wKU1tu7yJIA

Takeaways Distribution is crucial for the infrastructure of AI computing.
AI computing is leading to unprecedented power consumption challenges.
Retrofitting existing data centers for AI is complex and requires careful planning.
High-density racks require optimized power distribution solutions.
Emerging cooling technologies are essential for managing heat in AI workloads.
Structured cabling solutions can simplify installation and maintenance in data centers.
Future-proofing data centers involves planning for power and cooling needs.
The demand for AI is driving innovation in data center infrastructure.
Collaboration and planning are key to addressing the challenges of AI...

(00:00:00) Intentional Leadership and Team Empowerment
(00:09:56) The Zingerman's Community of Businesses
(00:19:45) Visioning: Crafting the Future
(00:29:22) The Hard Work Behind Success
(00:39:43) Open Book Management and Financial Transparency
(00:48:12) Creating a Great Organizational Culture

In this conversation, Ari Weinzweig, co-founder of Zingerman's, discusses his journey from a dishwasher to a successful entrepreneur. He shares the importance of visioning, the Zingerman's Community of Businesses (ZCOB), and the principles that guide their operations, including open book management and continuous improvement. Ari emphasizes the significance of creating a great organizational culture, providing excellent service to staff, and the hard work required to achieve success. The discussion highlights how Zingerman's has built a unique business model that focuses on quality, community, and employee engagement. What can we, in the construction/distribution industries learn from a community of restaurant and food businesses? Tune in and enjoy the ride.

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: podcast@graybar.com

Thank you to our paid sponsor LEVITON:   https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/leviton/c/sup-leviton?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=ep-60-ARI-Weinzweig-Business

YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/grJ7EtvfjjM

To reach Ari, email: Ari@zingermans.com

Learn more about Zingerman’s Community: https://www.zingermanscommunity.com/

Their YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@zingermans?si=O5EK_Y_UeQJx5qHf

Zingerman’s 12 Natural Laws of Business: https://www.zingtrain.com/blog/zingermans-12-natural-laws-of-business/

More resources from ZingTrain: https://www.zingtrain.com/library/

To learn of the classes they conduct: https://www.zingtrain.com/

Small Giants Book, not an affiliate link: https://bookshop.org/p/books/small-giants/22426968?ean=9781101992333&next=t&next=t

(00:00:00) Introduction to LiveSwitch and James Hatfield
(00:02:51) James Hatfield's Journey from Contractor to Tech Innovator
(00:06:35) The Impact of Technology on Contractor Businesses
(00:12:01) Expanding Use Cases: Beyond Contractors
(00:14:57) Navigating the Tech Landscape for Contractors
(00:19:36) The Future of Technology in the Contractor Industry
(00:22:47) Inmates to Entrepreneurs: Giving Back to the Community

In this episode, Todd Reed interviews James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer of LiveSwitch, exploring his journey from a contractor to a tech innovator. They discuss the impact of technology on the contractor industry, the importance of education, and the role of AI in the future of construction. James shares insights on how contractors can effectively integrate technology into their workflows to improve sales and insure work consistency.

James is the Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch, a global technology company that serves the trades and other businesses. As an industry thought leader and expert in sales, leadership and business innovation, he has extensive experience working with entrepreneurs, small businesses and Fortune 500 enterprises. James is also an entrepreneur who founded a painting and power washing company.

Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app. YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/mS6qVfv3qFI
 
To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: podcast@graybar.com

To see more episodes: https://www.graybar.com/podcast

Website: www.liveswitch.com

LiveSwitch free trial: https://www.liveswitch.com/contact-signup
Listeners can use the coupon code "KTLO10" so they get 10% off at checkout.

LiveSwitch description: LiveSwitch is a leading communications platform that uses instant video to transform how people work and scale their businesses. LiveSwitch makes it easier for business owners to connect with customers and document their work in real-time. Home service businesses rely on LiveSwitch to provide virtual estimates, document job progress and streamline operations using instant video.

Inmates to Entrepreneurs program: https://inmatestoentrepreneurs.org/

(00:00:00) Update Your Business Operating System with EOS - Guest Bruce Sheridan
(00:06:19) Introduction to EOS and Business Challenges
(00:08:51) Understanding EOS: Vision, Traction, and Health
(00:17:35) Common Problems Leading to EOS Implementation
(00:26:27) Plateauing Growth: Hitting the Ceiling
(00:35:31) The Importance of Accountability in Business
(00:44:31) Fostering a Healthy Company Culture with EOS

In this conversation, Bruce Sheridan, a certified EOS implementer, discusses the challenges faced by small to medium-sized electrical and communication contractors, including maintaining healthy margins, cash flow, and employee engagement.

He introduces the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), which focuses on helping businesses clarify their vision, gain traction, and foster a healthy work environment. Bruce shares insights on common problems that lead companies to seek EOS implementation, such as plateauing growth and accountability issues. He emphasizes the importance of having the right people in the right seats and how EOS can transform company culture and performance.
 
Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.

YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/q0Xa-LwFz7E

To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Bruce Sheridan on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucesheridan/

Bruce Sheridan and EOS: https://www.eosworldwide.com/bruce-sheridan

EOS Resources: https://www.eosworldwide.com/eos-tools

(00:00:00) Introduction to Steve Killias and His Journey
(00:02:06) Dining and Personal Insights
(00:03:12) Role and Responsibilities at Legrand
(00:04:16) Defining Success
(00:05:32) Understanding Small vs. Large Contractors
(00:10:55) The Importance of Contractor Associations
(00:12:18) Advice on Association Engagement
(00:15:19) Impact of Construction Industry Research
(00:19:16) Technology Challenges in the Construction Industry
(00:23:05) Leveraging Technology for Small Contractors
(00:27:51) Motivation and Passion in the Industry

I sit down with Steve Killius, VP of Contractor Industry Affairs and Programs for Legrand's Electrical Wiring Systems Division, in this insightful episode. Steve shares his journey from an electrician's helper to a VP at Legrand, offering valuable insights into the electrical contracting industry.

Key Takeaways:

1. Curiosity and Continuous Learning: Steve emphasizes the importance of curiosity and the desire to know more about various topics. He believes that broadening one's knowledge is crucial for personal and professional growth.
2. Mentorship: Steve advises finding a mentor in any field of interest. He highlights that learning from those who excel in a particular area is the fastest way to master it.
3. Workforce Development: Steve stresses the significance of training and developing employees. He believes that investing in workforce development is essential for the success and sustainability of any business.

Tune in to hear Steve's thoughts on the challenges and opportunities in the electrical contracting industry, his approach to customer experience, and his views on the impact of technology and AI on the industry. 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: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Steve Killius on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/skillius/  

Learn more about Legrand, North America: https://www.legrand.us/

Hall’s Chophouse: https://www.hallschophouse.com/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/cdt-kCMh-0w

(00:00:00) Your Personal Energy Matters with Anese Cavanaugh, Author & CEO
(00:06:57) Understanding Intentional Energetic Presence (IEP)
(00:14:32) The Impact of Energy on Leadership and Culture
(00:21:27) Practical Steps for Enhancing Workplace Energy
(00:24:32) The Future of Energetic Accountability

In this conversation, Anese Cavanaugh discusses the significance of personal energy in the workplace and introduces her methodology, Intentional Energetic Presence (IEP).

She emphasizes how the energy individuals bring can influence team dynamics, leadership effectiveness, and overall workplace culture. Anise shares practical steps for enhancing energy and accountability, highlighting the importance of self-care and awareness in fostering a positive work environment.

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: podcast@graybar.com

Thank you to our sponsor, Schneider Electric: https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/schneider-group/c/sup-schneider-group?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=ep-56-Anese-Cavanaugh-IEP

Learn more about Anese and IEP: https://activechoices.com/

To reach Anese on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anesecavanaugh/

Overview of IEP Method: https://youtu.be/D52HM8yqNdU

The impact of IEP in a meeting: https://youtu.be/c_aNrtPXK7Q

Self-Study course: https://activechoices.com/introtoiep/

The five steps: Hey Todd! https://activechoices.com/5steps  

YouTube: https://youtu.be/FMKSDc0h8sE  

In this conversation, Marilyn Akers Stansbury, CEO of the IEC Rocky Mountain Chapter, discusses her journey and the vital role of the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) in supporting electrical contractors. The conversation covers key themes such as safety in the electrical industry, workforce development through apprenticeship programs, the challenges faced by electrical contractors in running their businesses, and the importance of creating a positive company culture. Marilyn emphasizes the need for mental health awareness as part of safety and highlights the growth of apprenticeship programs in response to workforce shortages.

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: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Marilyn on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marilynakersstansbury/
Learn more about IEC Rocky Mountain: https://iecrm.org/about-iecrm/staff/
The Kitchen, Boulder: https://www.thekitchen.com/location/the-kitchen-bistros-boulder/
Rockie Dog at Colorado Rockies Stadium: https://www.mlb.com/rockies/ballpark/food
Call or Text 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/yOLNfBg2ErU

(00:00:00) Electrical Contractor Business Benchmarks w Josh Bone, ELECTRI International
(00:05:28) Project Basics
(00:15:31) Evolution of an EC Business
(00:23:17) Project Progress
(00:32:16) Who is This For?
(00:33:19) What to Measure in Business?
(00:38:22) Passion for the Industry

Business financial and operation benchmarks are invaluable as you look to improve your business numbers and service levels. However, if you’re an electrical contractor or data/comm installer, how do you find numbers that relate to your industry?

I spoke with Josh Bone, Executive Director at ELECTRI International, about a new project to create a repository of benchmarking data that will be available to contractors for free. We discuss the design of the project and how the data will help contractors understand their businesses for better management and financial success.

ELECTRI International is a non-profit research organization focused on the electrical and comm/data side of construction.

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: podcast@graybar.com

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JkEiv3FKFdw

To reach Josh Bone on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshbone/

Learn more about Electri International: https://www.electri.org/

Find the free Electri International research reports: https://www.electri.org/research-overview/research/

Get engaged in the latest research: https://www.electri.org/research-overview/electri-research-engagement-hub/

Drago’s Seafood New Orleans: https://www.dragosrestaurant.com/

Safety in the workplace is critical in any job, but it is tough to achieve on a job that involves construction. Sites can be very dangerous environments as well as the work being very taxing. I reached out to see if Wes Wheeler, NECA’s Executive Director of Safety, could discuss the state of safety in construction. It didn’t take us long before mental health came up as the focus of our conversation. Wes shares his unique viewpoint on this important topic.

As always, when I discuss mental health, I want to remind you of resources made for those working through challenging mental health issues. Remember, these resources are also for you who want to come alongside your loved ones to support their journey.

There’s the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (phone and text) which offers 24/7 access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress.

There’s also the Crisis Text Line: Text HELLO to 741741. Every person who texts is connected with a crisis counselor who is trained to listen and offer sound advice 24/7 Both are free, confidential, and again if you’re struggling with mental health or concerned for a loved one.

Wes joined NECA in 2014 and has over 40 years of electrical experience. Prior to NECA, he was safety consultant in his own business and has been a Safety Director and OSHA Safety trainer for a large industrial based electrical contractor in Florida. Wesley is a qualified OSHA Construction Outreach Instructor and has assisted in OSHA Instructor classes for Electrical Training Alliance. Wes has served in many capacities in his career from electrician, foreman, superintendent, estimator, project manager to safety director and is a member of OSHA’s Advisory Committee on Construction Safety and Health (ACCSH). His credentials continue, but suffice to say, Wes knows and loves the construction world. 

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: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Wes Wheeler on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/wesley-wheeler-sms-cescp-msp-99278452/

Learn more about NECA Safety: https://www.necanet.org/programs/safety/overview

Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention: https://www.preventconstructionsuicide.com/

TEXT 741741 Crisis Text Line: https://www.crisistextline.org/

Call or Text 988 Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/R9OcCmeLM4c

Building owners face a challenge moving forward as they learn how to maintain and replace their aging infrastructure. In this episode, I speak with Nathan Owens III, Director of US Channel Services and Partner Programs with Schneider to talk through the significance of the NFPA 70 B and 70E standards. In addition, Nate talks about the opportunities available to electrical contractors as they help their building owner customers keep the lights on.

Nate Owens has been with Schneider, with over 19 years of experience in sales management, operations, strategy, channel development, marketing, and commercial partnerships. 
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: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Nathan Owens III on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/nowensiii/

Learn more about Schneider Electric Services: https://www.se.com/us/en/work/services/

King’s Gyros: https://www.facebook.com/p/King-Gyro-Merrillville-100057562024743/

Jays Breakfast Club: https://jsbreakfastclubgary.com/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/DxgvzgY21sQ

Have you seen projects/tasks delayed because of communication problems? Have you taken time to do a post project debrief to understand the causes of these communication gaps? During last year’s NECA convention, I sat down with Amanda King to talk over her thoughts on the best ways to improve communication between the field and the office at an electrical contractor.

Amanda King is a leadership coach and trainer for the electrical industry. In 2016, she began developing leadership training programs for NECA contractors. Amanda has a marked skill for connecting, engaging and inspiring her audiences. As the owner of Wired Leadership, Amanda works exclusively with NECA contractors and their IBEW partners to increase productivity and profitability, through training, coaching and development. 

Welcome to Keepin’ The Lights On! I’m your host Todd Reed, and on this podcast I connect with the owners and pros who design, build, and maintain our electrical, communications, and industrial world to explore the best ways forward. 

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: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Amanda King on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-king-154785161/

Learn more about Wired Leadership: https://www.wiredleadership.net/#!/up
Pietro’s Lodi, CA: https://www.pietroslodi.com/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/DmqDmQNXX88

Creating an effective EV network can be a complex task. I asked, Mike Shumway, Strategic Account Manager for Graybar Renewables in the Southwest, to come on and talk me through the process. Mike is driving electrification by empowering electrical contractors to succeed in the EV charging space. Mike collaborates with clients to develop innovative strategies and navigate the complex challenges with EV charging infrastructure. Mike is also focused on helping electrical contractors succeed in this growing market by providing them with the resources and support they need. Welcome to Keepin’ The Lights On! I’m your host Todd Reed, and on this podcast I connect with the owners and pros who design, build, and maintain our electrical, communications, and industrial world to explore the best ways forward. Real quick request before the show starts. I would really appreciate your help as I grow this show, if you could take a moment to subscribe and also leave a 5-star rating in your favorite podcast player and YouTube.
Thank you for listening and watching.

YouTube: https://youtu.be/gUK8Hi54sgU
 
To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Michael on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-shumway-a23534123/

Learn more about Graybar’s Renewables: https://www.graybar.com/renewables

Chula Seafood, Phoenix  https://www.chulaseafood.com/scottsdale.html
 https://www.chulaseafood.com/about

It seems we hear, in every other episode, about the need for qualified trained trades people. So, when I had a chance to speak with Marty Riesberg, Electrical Training Alliance Director, I jumped at the opportunity to understand the current state of technical training. The Electrical Training Alliance or ETA, created in 1941, to standardize the training for the NECA employers and the electricians that work for them so that they can be more mobile. They work with 300 Training Centers or JATC's across the country. Marty began his electrical training at Western Iowa Technical Community College, then worked for a residential contractor and joined the Omaha Joint Electrical Apprenticeship and Training Committee’s Inside Program. After completing the program, he became a Journeyman Inside Wireman. In 2001, he was named Assistant Training Director for the Omaha Electrical JATC and served as an instructor for seven years. A member of IBEW LU 22 since 1992, Marty joined the NJATC in 2006 to develop a Building Automation curriculum and later became Director of Curriculum Development, overseeing curricula for around 300 local training centers. He currently manages the electrical training ALLIANCE’s Training Partner Program. He holds a Bachelor's in Business Administration from the National Labor College and a Master’s in Leadership from Georgetown University. Marty and I are going to discuss how training is changing and where it’s moving forward to support the industry. 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: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Marty on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/martyriesberg/

Learn more about Electrical Training Alliance: https://www.electricaltrainingalliance.org/

Jerry’s Seafood, Home of the Crab Bomb: https://www.jerrysseafood.com/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/nUSqWa4snxc

Most of us wouldn’t cook a complicated meal without a good recipe. What if we could adapt the concept of a recipe to construction. There are repeatable processes in construction that, if properly documented, would insure a more efficient and quality build. I spoke with Hala Nassereddine, Associate Professor and industry consultant, to learn more about her work with Electri International around the topic of Standard Operating Procedures or SOPs. Join us for this quick conversation on how to begin creating SOPs for your construction business.

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: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Hala on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/hala-nassereddine-68773191/

Electri SOPs Paper: https://www.electri.org/product/sops/

On YouTube: https://youtu.be/buE6tRwnEz0

What if the construction trades had a social media platform geared toward their work needs? A place where they can get help from their peers on how to solve field problems, discuss work/pay topics, and share insights on creating a great life with an amazing career. Such a place exists and it’s called Trade Hounds. I had a great opportunity to speak with Jon Clark, CTO, and Jeanette Abrahamsen, VP of Social and Content Media, of Trade Hounds. I spent a few minutes with them in San Diego at the NECA convention. Hear the story behind the platform and how they hope to bring the construction industry together into an innovative community.

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: podcast@graybar.com

Learn more about Trade Hounds: https://www.tradehounds.com/

To reach Jon Clark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-clark-b3024269/

To reach Jeanette Abrahamsen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanette-abrahamsen-88081112/

Santarpio’s Pizza: https://www.santarpiospizza.com/

Norway (go for the bakeries, stay for the scenery): https://www.regjeringen.no/en/id4/

YouTube: https://youtu.be/EaVFcHhy0PU

Everyone from homeowners to pros look for videos to either learn or hone skills. If you’re a construction professional, you’ll want to watch someone you can trust is providing you with accurate content.

Dustin Stelzer is just that content provider. He began Electrician U as a way of teaching electricians skills using YouTube and Social media. He has big plans on how he wants to support the industry he loves.

Listen in as we discuss the work he’s doing. 
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: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Dustin on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinstelzer/
Learn more about Electrician U: https://electricianu.com/
Chuy’s in Austin: https://www.chuys.com/
YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/nOEm8KEjceo

I speak with Toffee Coleman, from Fluke, about the value of teaming up with schools, training programs, and industry associations to boost learning and skill-building.

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: podcast@graybar.com

To reach Toffee Coleman on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/toffeecoleman/

Learn more about Fluke: https://www.fluke.com/

Fluke Education and Training Support: https://www.fluke.com/en-us/learn/student-discounts-and-resources

Toulouse Petite: https://toulousepetit.com/

See Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fDeDadndxYE

I believe one way to keep the energy and productivity up in a company is to spend time ensuring your culture is strong. In this episode I speak with, Mica Ashmore, Strategic Business Integration Manager with Alterman Electric. He shares ideas on ways to create a culture of engagement, empowerment, and accountability.

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: podcast@graybar.com

YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/XNIdo1IhOUA

To reach Mica Ashmore on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mica-ashmore-69218050/

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Continuous Improvement, Organization Development, Strategic Alignment, and Change Management

Learn more about Alterman: https://goalterman.com/

Taqueria Jalisco #9: https://taqueriajalisco9.com/

Fun fact, the reason for the “#9” is because there are several other restaurants (haha, at least 8 others at a minimum) with the same name, but since they are separate owners, for registration/tax purposes, they have to designate a difference in name, thus the number.

What does continuous improvement mean to you? Article from “The Fabricator” publication, written by Jeff Sipes, one of my Lean Six Sigma Black Belt instructors from Villanova University https://www.thefabricator.com/thefabricator/article/shopmanagement/what-does-continuous-improvement-mean-to-you-

What is Lean? Another great resource from Paul Akers (Author of “2-Second Lean”); found this to be a great practical resource for lean adoption, as he taps into culture a lot. https://paulakers.net/what-is-lean

Company Culture is Everyone’s Responsibility This HBR article touches on the question in our chat about how all levels of an organization impact culture https://hbr.org/2021/02/company-culture-is-everyones-responsibility

Stratified Systems Theory (SST) A little on the detailed side, but early in the article, it provides a great overview of what SST is and the various roles/responsibilities of each organizational tier https://www.cognadev.com/blog_040.html#:~:text=Elliott%20Jaques%20proposed%20the%20Stratified,span%20of%20the%20work%20involved.