In the second part of the Strong Conversations Lessons Learned series with 84 Lumber, we talk to Mitch Wagner, Vice President of Purchasing, who reflects on four decades in the building industry. From starting at $4.35 an hour to leading purchasing strategy for one of the most recognized names in the business, Mitch shares lessons on relationships, resilience, and leadership that endure through industry change. Key Takeaways: • How 84 Lumber builds careers that span decades • The importance of long-term relationships with vendors and stores • Why burning bridges is never an option in a consolidating industry • Lessons for salespeople on working effectively with purchasing leaders • The value of mentorship and succession in sustaining company culture

We continue our Strong Conversations Lessons Learned series with an episode with Frank Cicero, COO of 84 Lumber, who reflects on a 42-year career that began with handwritten tickets and grew into leading one of the largest players in the building industry. From mentors who shaped his leadership to lessons in humility, work ethic, and technology, Frank shares what it means to grow with a company while always keeping customers and associates at the center. Key Takeaways: • Why long-term success comes from listening to customers and associates • The influence of mentors and the importance of learning at every stage • How the building industry has shifted from generalists to specialists—and what’s next with technology • The leadership values that stand out: hard work, humility, and treating people with dignity

In this overtime edition of Strong Conversations, Jason Blair returns to explore life beyond the org chart. Part Three dives into passions, personal growth, and technology, revealing the thoughtful, competitive, and forward-looking mindset behind TAL’s leadership. From public speaking to golf to AI, this final chapter delivers powerful takeaways on staying sharp, staying human, and embracing what’s next. Key Takeaways: • Jason’s mindset on public speaking and how preparation beats “natural talent” • Why golf remains both a competitive outlet and a relationship-building tool • How TAL is forming an internal “Team AI” to future-proof its operations • The leadership lesson in focusing on what you can control

In Part Two of this three-part series, TAL Building Centers CEO Jason Blair returns to Strong Conversations for a deeper dive into the leadership lessons that shaped his career. From managing 180 people at age 24 to guiding a 500-employee company today, Jason opens up about accountability, feedback, and learning to lead other leaders. Key Takeaways: • How to seek, receive, and respond to feedback with intention • The challenges and breakthroughs of leading leaders—not just teams • Lessons in patience, title-chasing, and staying grounded in growth • Creating space for trust, delegation, and meaningful decision-making

In part one of this three-part Strong Conversations series, host Sam Marcoux sits down with Jason Blair, CEO of TAL Building Centers, for a candid, insightful look at career growth, leadership lessons, and the power of humble beginnings. Recorded in Jason’s own apartment in Vancouver, WA, the episode explores his journey from stocking paint at Payless Cashways to leading a 500-person company steeped in history and community values. Highlights include: • Why your title isn’t your job—and how Jason defines real responsibility • The early influences that shaped his leadership style • How a part-time gig turned into a lifelong career in building materials • The value of grit, mentorship, and lessons learned through hard work

In part two of our powerful conversation with Garrett Moore, we explore how the lessons from his Navy SEAL experience shaped his path into construction innovation, entrepreneurship, and ultimately, failure and rebirth. This is the story of resilience, brutal honesty, and the pursuit of purpose in the face of mounting pressure. Key Highlights: - The founding, rise, and fall of AGORUS: what went right and what went wrong - The emotional toll of leadership, burnout, and learning to ask for help - Lessons from failure: the cost of chasing too many goals at once - How focus and humility gave rise to a new venture rooted in teamwork and impact - Garrett’s vision for transforming construction through digital twin technology

In part one of our powerful two-part conversation with Garrett Moore, we dive deep into the extraordinary origin story of a man who’s not only a Division I quarterback and a US Navy SEAL but also the co-founder and CEO of TektonOS reshaping the construction industry. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and the strength of high-performing teams. Key Highlights: - Global travel, family values, and early exposure to leadership shaped Garrett’s childhood. - Life at Stanford football under Jim Harbaugh, and lessons from an elite sports culture. - The journey from quarterback to Navy SEAL, and the life-defining experience of BUD/S training. - Endurance, teamwork, and decision-making under extreme pressure. - How one phone call from his wife during a mission would eventually define Garrett’s next mission—rebuilding trust and efficiency in construction. You won't want to miss this if you're interested in leadership, resilience, or simply hearing a great story.

This is one of our favorite episodes from our Live from the Simpson Strong-Tie booth at IBS 2025 in Las Vegas season. In this episode, we sit down with Tim Uhler, the powerhouse framer behind "Awesome Framers," to talk shop at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. Known for his mix of technical know-how, on-site humor, and authentic content, Tim shares how a simple Instagram joke turned into a full-fledged construction media platform. Highlights include: How Tim unintentionally became a social media standout in the trades The unexpected power of building education through short-form video Why connecting with real people at shows like IBS matters Behind-the-scenes stories of fake magic, real friendships, and builder wisdom

In another revisited episode from Live from the Simpson Strong-Tie booth at IBS 2025 in Las Vegas, we have a high-energy, insightful conversation with Jeff Lear, VP of Strategic Sourcing at Meritage Homes. Host Sam Marcoux and Jeff dive into what it takes to lead with focus and purpose in a demanding, fast-paced environment. - Learn how Meritage Homes is redefining new home construction with its Speed, Reach, and Compete strategy. - Jeff opens up about the value of mentorship, culture, and the adrenaline rush of public speaking. - Discover how Meritage’s spec-first model and 60-day close-ready promise are challenging the resale market. - A candid look at industry headwinds, including tariffs and affordability—and why optimism still wins.

We revisit some episodes from our Live from the Simpson Strong-Tie booth at IBS 2025 in Las Vegas. This episode dives into the dynamic world of builder partnerships with Madison Saab, VP of National Accounts at A Better Blind. In a high-energy conversation with host Sam Marcoux, Madison shares: - How a career path in engineering led to blinds and builders - What it means to bring tech-savvy strategy to a traditional product - The importance of turnkey readiness and builder incentives - Key lessons in leadership, mentorship, and navigating industry change - Why the building industry keeps people coming back—and staying for life Insightful, funny, and full of actionable ideas for anyone in building and design.

In this episode of the Strong Conversations Podcast – Building the Brand Series, host Sam Marcoux sits down with Rob and Travis Kerrick, the father-son team at the heart of United Production Framing. With nearly 70 years of combined experience, the Kerricks have helped shape thousands of homes across Southern California—and their story is as much about family as it is about construction. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How Rob and Travis’s personal bond translated into professional success - Rob’s journey from loading lumber at 15 to being one of the first to install Simpson’s original Strong-Wall - How Travis went from pursuing kinesiology to discovering his passion in construction management - Why their family-like approach to business has helped create lasting industry relationships - Their perspective on what’s next for framing and the growing role of innovation and technology Whether they’re racing trophy trucks in Baja or managing multi-family builds, the Kerricks bring energy, trust, and respect to everything they do. This episode is a conversation about legacy—what it means to build homes, careers, and community together.

In this episode of the Strong Conversations Podcast – Building the Brand Series, host Sam Marcoux sits down with John Kelly, founder of the Kelly Design Group, to discuss his journey from a hands-on builder to one of the most well-known structural engineers in Las Vegas. John’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and overcoming incredible odds—including surviving a near-fatal accident that reshaped his outlook on life and business. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How John’s early hands-on experience in construction gives him a unique perspective as an engineer - His journey from framing jobs in college to leading a top design firm - The accident that left him with 28 broken bones—and how he fought his way back - How that experience influenced his decision to start his own company with just $30,000 and one client - The importance of real communication and relationships in business - Why panelization and off-site construction are shaping the future of the industry John’s story is about more than just structural engineering—it’s about determination, adaptability, and never backing down from a challenge. Whether you’re in the construction industry or looking for inspiration to take your own risks, this episode is full of valuable insights.

In this episode of the Strong Conversations Podcast – Building the Brand Series, host Sam Marcoux sits down with Brian Larrabure, a trailblazer in the construction industry who took an unconventional path to success. Unlike many who are born into the trade or stumble into it, Brian was drawn to construction from a young age, shaping his own path with determination and a drive to build something lasting. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - How Brian went from critiquing curb appeal as a kid to leading a major framing and panelization company - The unconventional career journey that led him from digging ditches to managing multi-million-dollar projects - Why he bet on panelization before the industry was ready—and how it helped his company survive the 2008 recession - The value of hands-on leadership and how an early mentor reshaped his approach to business - Lessons in differentiation, customer service, and long-term thinking in a highly competitive industry Brian’s story is about more than just construction—it’s about recognizing opportunity, betting on innovation, and leading with integrity. Whether you’re in the building industry or looking for lessons in entrepreneurship, this episode offers valuable insights from someone who built success from the ground up.

In this episode of the Strong Conversations Podcast – Building the Brands Series, host Sam Marcoux speaks with Roberto Ortiz & Winnie Sullivan, the leadership team at DCSE Associates. Their career paths were anything but typical—Roberto started his career as an intern, Winnie as a part-time receptionist—yet today, they lead the company as CEO and CFO. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - Roberto’s journey from immigrating to the U.S. at 15, learning English, and building a career in structural engineering - Winnie’s rise from the front desk to financial leadership, driven by ambition and a desire for impact - How Roberto balanced studying for his SE exam while caring for his premature newborn in the NICU - The importance of company culture and why transparency builds trust Winnie’s decision to donate a kidney to a colleague and what it says about leadership and community Ortiz and Sullivan didn’t just take over a company—they transformed it, preserving its culture while building something new. Their insights into leadership, perseverance, and teamwork offer valuable lessons for anyone navigating career growth or business ownership.

Strong Conversations at IBS 2025: Mollie Elkman of She Built Foundation/Group Two Mollie Elkmam, founder of She Built Foundation and Group Two Advertising, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Mollie talks about the importance and role of marketing and advertising in the building industry. We also talk to Mollie about what inspired her to start the She Built Foundation and writing the She Built books. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollieelkman/ https://grouptwo.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/shebuiltbooks/

Tim Uhler of Awesome Framers joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. In this conversation, we talk to Tim about what it takes to be a social media influencer and how that impacts the building industry. We also dive into why education is so important to the trades. https://www.instagram.com/awesomeframers/#

Every single one of us is in sales. Many people think sales is just taking customers out for expensive dinners or rounds of golf. Sales is about relationships and connections. It is about understanding not only your customers and their businesses but also understanding who they are as people. Wendi Zubillaga, Chief Sales Officer of Citadel Roofing and Solar gives us an inside look at what it takes to build your sales brand in the building industry. https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendi-zubillaga-4631618/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/citadel-roofing-and-solar/ https://www.biabayarea.org/ https://citadelrs.com/

Melissa McGhee, VP of National Purchasing and Strategic Sourcing of KB Home, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Melissa returns to the Strong Conversations podcast to share what she is looking forward to in 2025. She shares her insightful perspective about the IBS show and the benefits she has gotten from attending this year’s show. https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-mcghee-0964247/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/kb-home/

Tom Winters, VP of Builders of Sherwin Williams, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. Tom Winters is a legend in the building industry, having been a part of many industry associations. We also talk about how Sherwin Williams became a household name but why companies need to continue to innovate. https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-winters-2907509/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/sherwin-williams/

Scott Lang, VP of Residential Digital Solutions of Simpson Strong-Tie, joins us on the Strong Conversations podcast where we talk to industry leaders and partners on what is taking place at the 2025 International Builders’ Show. We dive into conversations with the most influential members of the builder industry to get their insights into the top trends within the industry, new products and technology, market predictions and so much more. We sit down with our own Scott Lang to talk about Simpson Strong-Tie’s approach to digital solutions for the building industry. We talk about how companies are adopting new technologies and how that has evolved. https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-lang-018b13a/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/simpson-strong-tie/