Soft As Steel

Dennis Doran sits down with Bruce Orr, founder and chief data scientist at Pronovos Construction Analytics. While Bruce specializes in construction analytics, Dennis highlights how his work plays a vital role in the industry and aligns with the podcast’s themes of love, inclusion, social justice, and compassionate leadership. Their conversation explores Bruce’s views on diversity, equity, and incl...

In this episode, host Dennis Doran welcomes guest Pierre Quinn, a respected leader and speaker. They explore how relationships contribute to happiness and success, emphasizing the role of strong connections in overall well-being. The discussion highlights the influence of love and positive energy in serving others and fostering lasting relationships. They also delve into the challenges of change,...

In this inspiring episode, Dennis Doran welcomes Dr. Gretchen Gagel to discuss what it truly means to lead with heart and purpose. Together, they explore the critical role of emotional intelligence, the importance of self-reflection, and why asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Dr. Gagel shares personal stories, practical leadership advice, and insights from her new book designed t...

Feeling undervalued in the construction industry? In this Soft as Steel episode, host Dennis Doran and Teresa Magnus explore the importance of valuing individuals to attract and retain talent. With 23+ years of experience, Magnus highlights how long hours and outdated practices harm productivity and deter workers. They also discuss the critical role of soft skills in fostering a safe, people-cente...

This week, Dennis welcomes Pat Skodje, a leader in the construction industry recognized for his soft skills-based approach to leadership. Skodje highlights the value of empathy, collaborative problem-solving, and strong partnerships in engineering and design. He also reflects on launching a new operation for Coatings Unlimited, focusing on the significance of attracting and mentoring younger talen...

In this episode, host Dennis Doran talks with Vicki O'Leary, a union leader and chair of North America's Building Trade Unions Trade Women's Committee. Their conversation explores the challenges of promoting diversity, inclusion, and social justice within the construction industry, focusing on the experiences of women and people of color. They highlight the critical role of early educa...

In this episode, host Dennis Doran chats with Christine Merdon, a seasoned leader in the construction industry with over 30 years of experience. They delve into the critical role of soft skills in construction, exploring topics such as women's involvement and mental health challenges in the field. Christine reflects on her experience with the successful restoration of the Capitol Dome, emphasi...

This episode features an insightful interview with Steven Philipp, President of Coatings Unlimited, a family-owned business specializing in coating and lining systems for various markets. The discussion centers on the critical role of soft skills in business, highlighting the importance of relationship-building, effective communication, and understanding within the construction industry. Steven em...

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, host Dennis Duran sits down with John Posilicco, a senior lecturer at Birmingham City University's School of Engineering and the Built Environment in England. Posilicco delves into the critical role of soft skills in the workplace, focusing on the value of human interaction and communication. He explores how technology can enhance or impede these i...

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, Cal Beyer, VP of Workforce Risk at Holmes Murphy, discusses suicide prevention and mental health in the construction industry. He highlights the growing shift toward prioritizing employee wellbeing, the importance of love and inclusion in the workplace, and how soft skills can foster a supportive, inclusive culture. A powerful conversation on transform...

In this episode, Jeff Granberg, CEO and co-owner of the PD Group of Companies, shares compelling insights into the power of soft skills in leadership. Drawing from his extensive journey in the construction industry and his transformative experiences working with street kids, Jeff highlights the value of self-awareness, acknowledging personal weaknesses, and building a team with diverse skillsets....

In this episode, I am joined by Sean Strickland, the Executive Director of Canada’s Building Trades Union (CBTU), an organization representing over 600,000 skilled trades professionals across the country. Together, we explore the transformative power of soft skills in the workplace, from fostering respect and inclusion to building stronger team dynamics. Sean shares his insights on creating a cult...

In this podcast, Nick, Corporate Director of Project Delivery Services at The Boldt Company, shares insights from his 25+ years in the construction industry. What makes his story unique is that his entire successful career has been built with The Boldt Company. Nick’s journey highlights his loyalty, dedication, and the supportive culture at Boldt that has fueled his professional growth.

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, host Dennis Doran sits down with Dominic Rubino, a seasoned entrepreneur, business coach, and motivational speaker. Known for his down-to-earth approach and sharp sense of humor, Dominic shares practical strategies for achieving business success while staying authentic and grounded.

In this podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Gretchen Gagel—a thought leader, educator, consultant, and author of Eight Steps to Being a Great Working Mom . Gretchen shares her insights on balancing career and family, the power of authenticity, and the importance of genuine care in leadership. Tune in to hear her stories of resilience and impact as she travels the world, empowering other...

In this episode of the Soft as Steel podcast, host Dennis Doran sits down with Wally Adamchik, a respected speaker, coach, and consultant with over 23 years in the construction industry. Wally shares insights on empowering construction leaders to enhance productivity, improve employee retention, and strengthen business performance through values-based leadership. He highlights the importance of au...

Today’s guest has dedicated more than half of his career to educating engineers on the business aspects of their field. But that’s only one facet of his journey. Lee has also consulted with global engineering organizations, offering expertise in strategic planning, team building, relationship management, and leadership development.

In this episode of the  Softest Steel  podcast, host Dennis Doran chats with Sasha Reed from Procore, an advocate for innovation and transformation in the construction industry. Sasha delves into the growing influence of technology, like AI, and the crucial role of soft skills in leadership. She highlights the industry's ongoing efforts to shed its reputation as slow to change, emphasizing new...

In this episode, I sit down with Jason Freeman—an inspiring speaker and perseverance coach with a unique twist. Despite having a speech impediment, Jason delivers powerful insights on overcoming challenges with humor, resilience, and positivity. His story will inspire you to see obstacles as opportunities.

I’m especially excited to welcome today’s guest, Brent Darnell, a transformative figure in the construction industry. Engineering News Record describes him as the man who’s turning the industry's traditional alpha males into service-focused leaders. Brent is an international best-selling author and a renowned authority on emotional intelligence, with a passion for reshaping leadership through...

It's a true honor to introduce a young man I've had the privilege of knowing for several years on the Soft As Steel podcast. Nick Carillo serves as the Vice President of the Western Wall and Ceiling Contractors Association. In his own words, he focuses on supporting contractor members, bridging the gap between labor and management, and addressing the needs of both contractors and the labor...

In this episode, I’m joined by my good friend, Frank DeAngelis, the former principal of Columbine High School. On April 20, 1999, Frank was at Columbine High School, where he served not just on that tragic day but also for three years before and 15 years after. His entire career at Columbine spanned 35 years. Since retiring, he continues to serve society as an education consultant and is the autho...

In this episode, I'm joined by my good friend, John Burcaw, the Director of Academic Education and Chief Administrative Officer for the Finishing Trades Institute in Minneapolis. John began his career as a union commercial industrial painter and joined the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades in 1997, leading to his current role. With over 20 years of experience in developing prog...

In this episode of the podcast, host Dennis Doran is excited to welcome Jim Johnson, a leader whose impact resonates deeply with those he encounters. Jim is someone whose influence extends far beyond his impressive career; he brings a unique combination of wisdom, integrity, and dedication to his role as a coach and mentor. Jim’s approach to leadership emphasizes the importance of shining the spot...

In this episode of the podcast, host Dennis Doran is thrilled to welcome Tim Dumas, a person whose impact is felt far and wide. Tim is someone you want to know, not just for his impressive credentials, but for the profound influence he has on those around him. As a coach and leader, Tim embodies a rare blend of wisdom, compassion, and vision. In his own words, he magnanimously coaches leaders to l...