Dirt Talk Podcast

In this episode, Aaron sat down with guest Mark O’Donnell, CEO of EOS Worldwide to discuss how to strengthen your business and connect with your people. They explored the significance of a clear marketing strategy and the importance of resilience in dealing with unforeseen challenges. Later, they discussed leadership that trusts, cares, and leverages individual strengths, allowing employees to rea...

In this episode, Aaron Witt, joined by Brett Ruppel of IMPETUS dug into the complexities of construction design, particularly in large chemical plants. They discussed the challenges inexperienced engineers face, trends in civil engineers transitioning into construction roles, and the concept of design assist projects. Tune in to learn more about the intricacies of construction design and its impac...

In this episode of Dirt Talk, Aaron sits down for a discussion with Jason Stenger. As the lead figure of Alpha Inc., a reputable construction company in the heart of Maui, Jason has seen it all. They discuss the early days of Jason’s venture, highlighting the challenges unique to the Maui landscape. The duo also addresses the recent wildfires that deeply affected the island and how Jason responded...

Join Aaron and Josh Young as they discuss the complexities of the fuel industry. They shed light on California's bold moves for 2024 and how other states might follow. From the challenges faced by small businesses to the broader implications for the environment, this episode provides a discussion on the future of diesel. Dive in for a mix of facts, opinions, or a bit of banter. Whatever floats you...

Join us in this podcast episode as Beth Cross, CEO of Ariat, sits down with Aaron to chat about his positive experience with Ariat work boots. In their discussion, Aaron shares his story about how these boots significantly improved his comfort and stamina throughout his demanding workdays. Beth Cross sheds light on Ariat's meticulous design process, commitment to quality, and ongoing efforts towar...

Join Aaron as he dives deeper into the heart of southern forestry. Joined by Matt Hestad (VP of Engagement at Georgia Forestry Association) and Gordon Grizzle (Senior Forester at Green Diamond) this installment of Dirt Talk aims to tackle the intricate ties forestry has to environmental balance and economic dynamism. The crew also explores what it takes to attract a new generation of workers to an...

In this episode, Aaron is joined by Industry expert and CEO of MacKay contracting Rob MacKay to share candid stories and insights about Canadian infrastructure projects. Explore the challenges and triumphs of mining, road building, and all manner of civil projects while delving into the ever-evolving landscape of construction work. Join them as they navigate generational shifts, international proj...

Join us for an insightful conversation as we dive into the world of BuildWitt, and our mission to make the dirt world a better place. In this one, three-fourths of our senior leadership team got together to chat about our marketing services, groundbreaking training products, and the Ariat|Dirt World Summit, aimed at addressing critical workforce challenges and leadership. Discover how BuildWitt is...

On this week's episode, we are back (Aaron and Myself) to talk more about Australia. Part one left us at the Komatsu dealership checking out some 475 Dozers at the dealer. In this week's episode, Aarons gets right into it with tales of some really slick machines doing some really impactful work. The journey starts in New South Wales, meeting up with the familiar faces of MC Earthmoving working on...

In this week's episode, Aaron invites back Mr. Sunday Service himself Eric Jumper, to talk about, you guessed it, machines that move earth! The conversation starts with Eric still buzzing from the excitement of dragline week. Naturally, the massive 9-figure Draglines used by North American Mining and FEC in Florida are a good place to start. As they delve further into the world of Aggregate the co...

On this weeks Dirt Talk, Aaron Witt recounts his travels down under! The adventure began at Hastings Deering in Mackay, where they learned about heavy equipment used in the mining industry. Next, they visited the Pembroke Olive Downs complex, witnessing the operations and infrastructure of a metallurgical coal mine in the Bowen Basin. National Group showcased their equipment supply services, which...

On this week’s Dirt Talk, Aaron and Randy delve into the profound influence of vulnerability and effective leadership. They explore how embracing vulnerability not only strengthens leaders but also inspires those around them to share their ideas and learn from their mistakes. By challenging the traditional notion of infallibility, leaders can create a culture that values openness and fosters innov...

In this episode of Dirt Talk, Aaron Witt dives into the world of demolition and recycling, shedding light on the importance of sustainable practices in the industry. He is joined by James Milburn, a representative from the National Demolition Association (NDA), who shares valuable insights and experiences. The conversation covers various topics, including the recycling of construction and demoliti...

This week’s Dirt Talk has got it all… From late night show hosts sharing their controversial views on COVID, to the absurdities of airport experiences, and even our wild fantasies of owning military planes. The conversation takes you from laughter, to deep insights, and later, through some wild turns. Get ready to laugh, ponder, and maybe even question your own sanity as we navigate through the qu...

In this week’s Dirt Talk, Jason Schroeder shares his experience implementing Lean practices in the construction industry, promoting transparency, and driving change towards a more respectful and employee-friendly environment. Tune in to hear his insights and advice for the Dirt World. If you have any questions or feedback, email the Dirt Talk crew at dirttalk@buildwitt.com. Stay Dirty! Learn more...

Join Aaron and guest Jason Richmond as they spill the beans on the power of authenticity in construction. The guys discuss the importance of transparency, admitting mistakes, and addressing criticisms on social media. Later, they reveal the secret sauce to industry growth and trust-building. Learn more about the value of sharing lessons learned, promoting industry growth through open dialogue, and...

This week on Dirt Talk, the guys dive deep into the important topic of mental health in the construction industry. They're joined by Vince Hafeli, the president Ajax Paving Industries, who shares his personal experiences and the steps his company took to tackle mental health challenges among their workforce. Together, they explore practical strategies that companies can implement to prioritize men...

This week on Dirt Talk, the guys are joined by Randy Blount in a conversation about the challenges and dynamics of the construction industry. They dive into topics like the impact of long working hours on work-life balance, the need for flexibility in scheduling, and the potential for increased productivity through efficient planning. Later, the conversation moves into the effects of overworking a...

This week on Dirt Talk, host Aaron Witt is back with Alex Horton for a monthly installment of QUESTIONS & QUESTIONABLE ANSWERS! They guys discuss the challenges of speaking when you reach a certain age before answering questions about the disconnect between designers and builders, the way(s) that engineers can win over the people in the field, and how to convince company leaders to finally buy-in...

This week on Dirt Talk, host Aaron Witt is joined by Alex Horton and Mr. i_filmdrt himself, Angel Torres. Aaron and Angel recount their recent trip to Hawaii to visit Goodfellow Bros, Alpha Inc, and Truth Excavation. While there, Aaron got to do a podcast with Steve Goodfellow (DT158), as well as squeeze in a “nutz fit” workout with Kimo Clark aka Jimmy Cheezenutz. If you have any questions or fee...

Aviv Leibovici is the co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Buildots, a construction tech company based in Tel Aviv with locations in the UK and US, as well. Buildots uses AI and powerful data systems to connect all of the aspects of construction projects, from the first day of design to the last day of construction, to bring accuracy to data analysis and keep everyone on the the same page throu...

Jeremy Whitaker is the Director of Training & Recruitment at C.W. Matthews Contracting out of Marietta, Georgia. It’s something of a unique position, but as you’ll learn from the podcast, Jeremy has the unique background and career path to match. He worked for multiple years a carpenter, a phys ed teacher, a musician/worship leader before he ever began teaching and training young people in constru...

Ken Rusk is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Blue Collar Cash: Love Your Work, Secure Your Future, and Find Happiness for Life, entrepreneur, and blue-collar advocate “showing that there’s no degree required for comfort, peace, and freedom.” Ken never went to college and instead spent his younger years digging ditches and working in construction. Through hard work and patience, he’s b...

It’s not really a stretch to say that Ryan Neal is a Caterpillar equipment expert. After a career as an equipment operator, he joined the corporate arm of Caterpillar as a Senior Product Demonstrator Instructor. He worked his way up over the course of 16 years and is now the Market Professional for Large Excavators. In addition to it sounding like an awesome job, it IS an awesome job. And thankful...

Aaron Witt recaps his experience at CONEXPO 2023 a few weeks ago. He lays out the difference between his first CONEXPO, when he essentially snuck in and 2023, when he spoke at an event each day that he was there. He also wrestles with the bizarre nature of being something of a celebrity among parts of the Dirt World, and why that requires an intentional mindset shift. If you have any questions or...