Afleveringen
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From military precision to civilian construction, today’s guest offers a powerful blueprint for transformative leadership. Pete Anzovino recently joined MCFA after retiring from the US Army, coming to us through the Department of Defense SkillBridge Program. This program helps former service members and veterans transition into fulfilling careers in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.
In this episode, Pete shares how the SkillBridge Program eased his transition and highlighted the surprising parallels between military operations and project management. He discussed the benefits of certifications like Project Management Professional (PMP) to lessons on navigating multiple stakeholders and maintaining clear communication. Pete provides invaluable insights on leveraging military experience in new, impactful ways.
Whether you’re a veteran or simply curious about project leadership, this episode is full of practical guidance and actionable advice for making a meaningful transition! To discover how to lead with purpose, manage with precision, and create impact in any field, tune in today!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Key similarities between military roles and project management in construction.
• Insight into SkillBridge and Hiring Our Heroes, assisting veterans in entering civilian careers.
• The importance of certifications like OSHA-30, ESP, and PMP in the transition process.
• Leadership lessons from the military that apply to managing projects, people, and teams.
Quotes:
“The skills that we use as military officers, whether you're an engineer, [infantry officer, or an armor officer], everything you're doing relates to project management. You're managing people, time, funds, resources in general to accomplish a mission.” — Pete Anzovino
“When we were going through the [SkillBridge] program, whether we ended up employed with MCFA or not, – [it] was a great opportunity to gain exposure to industry but also walk away with three certifications that – would look great on a resume.” — Pete Anzovino
“Do the best you can with what you have right now.” — Pete Anzovino
“If you're in a [SkillBridge program], definitely leverage your fellow SkillBridge fellows because everyone's having a different experience and you can learn something from everybody.” — Pete Anzovino
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Pete Anzovino on LinkedIn
DoD SkillBridge
Hiring Our Heroes
OSHA 30-Hour Training
Envision Sustainability Professional (ESP) Training
Project Management Professional (PMP) Training
The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living
Ryan Holiday
Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of NIKE
Leadership Blueprints Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Being coached in leadership is one thing, but without actionable steps to turn those lessons into reality, that coaching becomes redundant. Welcome back to our rebranded podcast, Leadership Blueprints! Today we are very excited to introduce Wally Adamchik, former US marine, President of Firestarter Consulting, and leadership coach.
He joins us to discuss all things leadership! Tuning in, you’ll hear all about Wally’s career, what inspired him to become a leadership coach, what Firestarter Consulting does, who their target audience is, and so much more! We delve into some of the issues in the construction industry before Wally shares what he thinks makes for a great workplace.
He even talks us through some of the action steps he teaches his clients in his leadership courses; including the histories, heroes, heartaches, and hopes exercise. Finally, Wally shares his favorite quotes and books and tells us who his dream dinner guests would be. Thanks for listening in!
Key Points From This Episode:
• What led Wally to do what he does today and what Firestarter Consulting does.
• How Wally approaches the problems in the construction industry as a leader.
• The histories, heroes, heartaches, and hopes exercise Wally teaches.
Quotes:
“What is a great place to work? Well, it’s trust, pride, and camaraderie.” — Wally Adamchik
“You can tell me what your values are but you can’t tell me why your values are. And until you can tell me why your values are, you don’t have a solid foundation. And if you don’t have a solid foundation – you will not have stability.” — Wally Adamchik
“Self-awareness – may take you to some dark places, it may take you to some scary places within you but it’s worth it because you come out better on the other side.” — Wally Adamchik
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Wally Adamchik on LinkedIn
Wally Adamchik on X
Wally Adamchik on Instagram
Firestarter Speaking and Consulting
Construction Leadership
The Lost Art of Listening
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff… And It's All Small Stuff
Leadership Blueprints Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Joining BJ on the debut episode of our newly rebranded podcast, Leadership Blueprints, formerly Inspiring People & Places, is Katie Kilker, Senior Project Director for Federal Facilities in the Engineering, Design, and Infrastructure Group at AtkinsRéalis. In honor of November's Veteran Salute, DOD to AEC, we’re spotlighting Katie’s recent transition from active duty in the Air Force to her current role in the built environment.
Tune in to hear Katie discuss her journey to the Air Force, her formative experiences, what an Air Force career can look like, and her role at AtkinsRéalis. She also shares insights from “taking off the Colonel Kilker uniform” and stepping into civilian life, key elements for a smooth and successful transition, and valuable resources for those planning to transition.
Don’t miss the first episode under our new name, enjoy!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Where her career started and how she ended up in the Air Force.
• What started the process of transitioning out of active duty.
• How she started her transition early and figured out her must-haves and no-compromises.
• Key elements to a successful transition and her experience so far.
Quotes:
“If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Start your [transition] plan early, be inquisitive, and learn about what you want to do and don’t just feel like you need to do what other people want you to do.” — Katie Kilker
“Being a leader, you kind of need to be extroverted for people to see who you are. You can’t just hide in the shadows, assess, and write notes and stuff.” — Katie Kilker
“Civilians — are the bedrock of the Air Force.” — Katie Kilker
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Katie Kilker on LinkedIn
AtkinsRéalis
SAME Career Transition Workshop
Georgia Tech
Beale Air Force Base
The COMMIT Foundation
Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity
Military Retirement on Google Play
Military Retirement on Apple iStore
American Corporate Partners
Theodore Roosevelt Quote
Daring Greatly
Drop the Ball: Achieving More by Doing Less
Designing Your Life: How to Build a Well-Lived, Joyful Life
Leadership Blueprints Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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What does it take to turn big ideas into lasting infrastructure?
In this episode, we sit down with two MCFA team members, Michael Fuhrman and Brian Pieplow, to dig into their new book, Make No Little Plans: A Planning as a Project Development Approach to Building Infrastructure. Michael, Co-Founder of MCFA, and Brian, Chief Project Development Officer, bring a combined wealth of expertise to MCFA.
Michael’s extensive background in environmental permitting, land use planning, and regulatory compliance aligns projects with sustainable standards. Brian’s leadership is in professional growth and skill-building strategies. This combination keeps MCFA’s talent at the forefront of industry best practices.
In our conversation, we discuss what they hope readers will take away from it. Learn about their discover, navigate, accelerate (D-N-A) process described in the book and how it benefits professionals in the industry. Explore common misconceptions around urban planning, what it takes to be an agency champion, and why the time is now for public infrastructure and planning.
They also discuss the power of curiosity in urban planning, share recommendations for budding urban planners, unpack the policy shifts needed, and explore what it takes to be successful in the industry. Join us to discover how big projects and outcomes start with small plans and the steps to get there with Michael Fuhrman and Brian Pieplow.
Tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
• The meaning behind the title 'Make No Little Plans' and what inspired it.
• Unpack the "planning as a project development approach" concept.
• Hear real-world examples of applying the D-N-A approach to planning.
• Their passion for urban planning and what got them interested in it.
• Challenging the status quo of urban planning and what needs to change.
• Brian and Michael share the impact they are hoping to achieve with the book.
Quotes:
“Big projects and big outcomes start with small plans.” — Brian Pieplow
“When you see things like a bridge, road, or building, it all started with a plan and an idea.” — Michael Fuhrman
“Every project is going to die a thousand deaths along its journey that is worthwhile and complex.” — Brian Pieplow
“I hope for young professionals to really grasp what we are saying, and there is a way to get things done. There is light at the end of the tunnel.” — Michael Fuhrman
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Michael Fuhrman
Michael Fuhrman on LinkedIn
Brian Pieplow
Brian Pieplow on LinkedIn
Arlington National Cemetery
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Entering a new career after your military service can be a tough transition, but there are plenty of transferrable skills that can help you on your journey. Joining us today is Paul Garvey, Executive Managing Director at Cushman & Wakefield, to talk about his time in the Navy and the transition into corporate real estate.
Tuning in, you’ll learn about key skills and experiences from his military career, and how they have served him in his new business environment. We unpack what it’s like working your way up in real estate brokerage today, and how to make sure you have the right support in place so that you can give it your all and get the best possible outcome.
He also shares his advice for other veterans who want to enter a new career and how to make sure they are adequately prepared for their exit. To learn more about the fascinating world of international real estate and the path to a career transition for veterans, be sure to tune in!
Key Points From This Episode:• Development and consulting in international corporate real estate.
• Military career skills that have served him well in the corporate real estate world.
• What it’s like working your way up in real estate brokerage today.
• Everything you need to know about The Tun Tavern Legacy Foundation in Philadelphia.
• Advice on transitioning out of the military and going toward something new.
Quotes:
“[With real estate brokerage] when things get going, things get tough. You've just got to put your nose to the grindstone and work hard. That's one of the beauties of the things [is that] you can you can change that outcome.” — Paul Garvey
“We can't create peace in the Middle East. We have no ability to change that. – What we can do is make a change right around us to the people we touch every day.” — Paul Garvey
“If you're transitioning out [of the military], don’t just leave, go [toward] something.” — Paul Garvey
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Paul Garvey
Paul Garvey on LinkedIn
Cushman & Wakefield
Steven Covey Books
Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In
Thinking, Fast and SlowTeam of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln
The Tun Tavern Legacy Foundation
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Many veterans struggle to find their place in a world different from the one in active service. However, many skills learned on the military base are valuable and transferable to civilian life. For sales, your military background may even serve you better than someone with a more traditional career trajectory.
Today we are joined by Navy Veteran, Alex Archawski, whose impressive business acumen led to him founding two companies—Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network and Veteran Shark Tank—including being the President of Sales Evolution.
We begin with Alex’s work and home life before learning about the three titles he currently holds and what each role entails. Then, we uncover important sales facts that every business leader needs to know, why there’s a common disconnect between sales and revenue in the industry, skills that easily transfer from military to business, and the importance of teaching the youth about leadership from a young age.
To end, Alex describes how he can maintain consistent levels of high performance, why his life is centered on helping others, and he lays down a (very doable) challenge for all veterans who want to improve their lives.
Key Points From This Episode:
• The ins and outs of the Veteran Shark Tank and the Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network.
• Why a disconnect between sales and revenue is a common industry occurrence.
• Transferable skills that one should lean on when transitioning from the Military to sales.
• Sales tips and tricks to keep in your locker.
Quotes:
“[The Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network] is really about empowering the community to work collectively together in different ways.” — Alex Archawski
“Everybody likes to make more money; I would 100% agree with you. But philosophically, I run into people that are not willing to make the effort.” — Alex Archawski
“Your signature moment [in sales] is influencing somebody to change the way they do things for the better of their business. That’s powerful.” — Alex Archawski
“That’s my motto, ‘So others may live.’ When people say, ‘What do you do for a living?’ I’m always like, ‘I’m a glorified facilitator.’” — Alex Archawski
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Alex Archawski on LinkedIn
Veteran Shark Tank
Sales Evolution
Greater Philadelphia Veterans Network
West Point Society of Philadelphia
11th Annual Veteran Shark Tank – December 9, 2024
Atomic Habits
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Committing to candid quarterly conversations is one of the most powerful organizational levers you can tap into. These discussions are beneficial to everyone, driving growth for both individuals and the organization.
As we head into the fourth quarter of the year, BJ Kraemer shares his thoughts on why annual feedback isn’t enough. Why formalizing a process for these quarterly conversations is essential for successful growth. What these conversations should entail, and the impact of avoiding difficult discussions.
He also breaks down the key elements that make these conversations truly effective. To learn how to implement effective quarterly conversations, tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Reasons that annual feedback is just not enough.
• Why formalizing a process into quarterly conversations is a big lever to tap into.
• What a quarterly conversation should cover.
• Processes for having effective and candid quarterly conversations.
• How finishing this year strong enables you to start next year with increased momentum.
Quotes:
“I want my employees [to understand] their role, their responsibilities, and [advocate] for how their growth is tied to our growth and our growth is tied to their growth. I want my managers to be engaged in helping them think through that.” — BJ Kraemer
“Formalizing a process into quarterly conversations is one of the biggest organizational levers you can tap.” — BJ Kraemer
“Having consistent, candid conversations with employees is to everybody’s benefit.” — BJ Kraemer
“Feedback the breakfast of champions.” — BJ Kraemer
“You cannot be afraid of having hard conversations because the more you let that hard conversation linger, the harder that conversation is to have.” — BJ Kraemer
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Jack Welch on LinkedIn
EOS: The Quarterly Conversation
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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What makes or breaks a multi-million-dollar capital project?
In today’s episode, we sat down with Jim Brill, Managing Director of the Construction and Real Estate Practice at EY to uncover what it takes to be successful in large-scale investment projects. With over 30 years of experience, Jim has advised a variety of stakeholders on capital projects across multiple industries. His leadership in consulting and expertise in project management have made him a key figure in the industry.
In our conversation, we find out how he got started in the industry, what his current role entails, and hear what makes EY unique in the construction and real-estate space. We also unpack how EY serves clients from the ground up to execution and its approach to integrating the entire business and owner objectives into a project.
Explore the various ways a large-scale project can fail, how EY supports the mission of its clients, and the various sectors it operates in. And discover why good leaders are vital for effective risk management, the difference between perception and perspective, the steps to fostering a healthy work culture, the importance of communication, and more.
Tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Learn how to navigate the needs of the business with nuances of design and construction.
• Learn the fundamentals of setting a project up for success from its inception.
• How to gain an understanding of an entire project and the different teams involved.
Quotes:
“In my business, we have to sell internally to your account partners and then be able to get a good conversation [going] with the account themselves.” — Jim Brill
“I think that it takes good leaders to be able to execute risk management appropriately.” — Jim Brill
“Put in the hard work early and often, and it is going to pay dividends.” — Jim Brill
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Jim Brill on LinkedIn
EY (Ernst & Young)
How to Win Friends & Influence People
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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"If not me, then who?”
First Lt. Travis Manion, USMC, made this simple yet powerful statement before his final deployment, reflecting the profound sense of duty experienced by service members and their families.
Today on the podcast, BJ is joined by Ryan Manion, CEO of the Travis Manion Foundation (TMF), one of the nation’s leading veteran service organizations. Known for her resilience after losing her brother Travis to war and her mother to cancer, Ryan is dedicated to empowering veterans and the families of fallen heroes to inspire future generations to drive change.
Join the conversation to learn more about TMF, the story behind the quote, and the powerful impact their Character Does Matter training program has on inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Thanks for tuning in!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Ryan shares the background and mission of the Travis Manion Foundation and her role as CEO.
• Who was Travis Manion: Ryan reflects on the life and legacy of her brother.
• The story behind the quote, “If not me, then who?”
• Ryan shares details about their flagship leadership program Character Does Matter.
• What it means to live a life of character for our youth.
Quotes:
“The goal and the goal still continues to be, how can we inspire the rest of society to live by those five words, [If not me, then who?], as well” — Ryan Manion
“For us as a veteran service organization, we knew very quickly that the way to make sure that veterans thrive post their military career is to give them a continued sense of purpose and to make sure that they know that we still need them, even out of their uniform.” — Ryan Manion
“My mom started the [Travis Manion] organization — [with] three very simple goals. One was to continue providing support and resources to returning veterans. The second was to be able to do the same for families of the fallen. And the third — our mission was to help play a part in inspiring the next generation of leaders. ” — Ryan Manion
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Ryan Manion
Ryan Manion on X
Ryan Manion on Instagram
The Knock at the Door: Three Gold Star Families Bonded by Grief and Purpose
Brothers Forever: The Enduring Bond between a Marine and a Navy SEAL that Transcended Their Ultimate Sacrifice
The Resilient Life Podcast
Travis Manion Foundation
Travis Manion Foundation: Join the Mission
Travis Manion Foundation on Instagram
Character Does Matter Program
Donate to the Travis Manion Foundation
Fire in the Hole Golf Outing 2024
Joey Fay on LinkedIn
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Have you ever tried leading or managing someone but struggled with communication? Effective communication is the backbone of every successful training program.
In this solo episode of Inspiring People & Places, BJ dives into how the correct communication techniques can elevate your training methods. He unpacks the concept of training in the context of leadership and how to tailor training based on each employee’s specific needs.
Discover how to establish foundational language, communicate company culture effectively, and the interplay between career progression and business growth. Learn why companies and employees must remain flexible with their expectations, the importance of catering to an employee’s learning style, and why training is crucial for startups. Explore actionable strategies for improving communication in your training sessions and tips for building cohesive and productive teams.
Whether coaching a team, teaching a class, or delivering a workshop, mastering training can be the difference between success and missed opportunities. Tune in now to take your training and employees to the next level!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Why communication is a vital ingredient for proficient training and team-building.
• Tips and strategies for teaching the baseline experience of the company.
• Explore the differences between technical and business-focused career paths.
• Approaches for filling employee skill gaps while meeting a client’s needs.
• The basics of a training program and how to identify an employee’s baseline.
• Resources to enhance your training program and foster top performers.
Quotes:
“The more an individual understands how their personal growth benefits the company and how the company’s growth benefits their career, I think, the more symbiotic [the employee] relationship is.” — BJ Kraemer
“I think that we have to recognize that we are always going to have team members that are at different levels of understanding, and our job, as leaders, is to meet them where they are.” — BJ Kraemer
“You may have gaps across the enterprise and that can give you the trends of where to put your corporate resources versus where to customize for an individual manager or employee.” — BJ Kraemer
“Training to me is critical and I think everybody should be doing it.” — BJ Kraemer
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
The Hard Thing About Hard Things
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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At its core, leadership is about inspiring and influencing behavior to help people to achieve a common goal. But how are great leaders shaped? Join us for a compelling conversation with Brian Stann, a former mixed martial artist and U.S. Marine who competed in the UFC’s middleweight and light heavyweight divisions.
In this discussion, we explore where Brian is today, his journey through the military, the lessons he learned at Hire Heroes USA, and his leap into real estate development. Brian also breaks down how specific military experiences, training programs, and the culture of mixed martial arts combine to forge exceptional leaders.
We’ll touch on how to build, develop, and maintain toughness in your life. Brian even offers valuable advice for active-duty service members, veterans, and military spouses.
Thanks for tuning in.
Key Points From This Episode:
• The merging of things he loved and how he wound up at Hunt Military Communities.
• Hunt Military Communities, its portfolio, the number of employees, and where they’re located.
• He distills down what Military experience, IOBC Training, and the martial culture do to human beings to create leaders.
• How to build, develop, and maintain your toughness.
Quotes:
“What I loved about the military, at that time, the brand was elite. If you wanted to be something elite, if you wanted to go on an adventure and climb to the top of the mountain, you joined the military.” — Brian Stann
“I fell in love with how martial arts and a martial mindset can help me be a better combat leader.” — Brian Stann
“The one thing that I struggle to find now as a CEO, the number one thing that I struggle to find is people who can truly lead other people.” — Brian Stann
“I think, if you take just a very simple definition of leadership, it’s the ability to influence people’s behaviors so that they can go accomplish a goal and that’s essential.” — Brian Stann
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Brian Stann on Instagram
Hunt Military Communities
UFC
Hire Heroes USA
Gates of Fire: An Epic Novel of the Battle of Thermopylae
Denzel Washington Commencement Speech
Inspiring People & Places PodcastMCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Veterans have the potential to be exceptional business leaders if they can prioritize and balance their values, wellness, and financial goals. Joining us today is the founder of Richard Group LLC, Jed Richard to discuss his incredible career and the difference he is making within his company.
Tuning in, you’ll hear all about Jed’s upbringing, how his grandfather became his inspiration, his time in the army, and how he transitioned into construction. We explore the exceptional entrepreneurial qualities veterans possess before Jed highlights the most common mistakes he sees them make in career planning.
He also shares book recommendations for aspiring entrepreneurs, insights gained from Peter Thiel, and why he is so passionate about supporting his employees’ families. Finally, Jed offers his perspective on the advancement of the construction industry.
Thanks for tuning in!
Key Points From This Episode:
• The failures Jed has seen in veterans when career planning.
• Why veterans have dual ‘superpowers’ when it comes to entrepreneurship.
• How to make a difference in the private sector.
• Why transactional motives will not bring you fulfillment.
• How to become a great leader by following first.
Quotes:
“The people that get promoted in this world are promoted by their teammates, their peers, and the people underneath them that they’ve made successful.” — Jed Richard
“You’re going to create value in the world if you focus on being a great leader and sometimes being a great leader starts with being a great follower.” — Jed Richard
“I want to give the most noteworthy adventure to as many families as possible and to my own.” — Jed Richard
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Jed Richard on LinkedIn
Richard Group LLC
The 4 Disciplines of Execution
Tools of Titans
The Great Game of Business
The Obstacle is the Way
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Anyone can build an average business, but who wants to be average when you can be excellent?
Today on Inspiring People & Places, we are joined by the founder and managing partner of Scare the Bear Capital, Matthew Dean. In this conversation, we hear all about Matt’s background, what led him to his current leadership role, and where he is in his career today.
We delve into the leadership lessons he learned growing his firm, his ‘Markon 100’ principle, and how his leadership style changed as the firm grew. Matt goes on to tell us about the ‘north star’ of Scare the Bear Capital, his favorite book for entrepreneurs to read, the most inspiring quote he can think of, his ideal dinner party guests, and so much more!
Finally, Matt tells us what he wants his legacy to be and encourages people with entrepreneurial spirits (especially veterans) to start small businesses today! Thanks for tuning in!
Key Points From This Episode:
• The leadership lessons he learned growing a firm, one contract at a time.
• How his leadership style changed from 100 to 300 employees.
• The ‘north star’ of Scare the Bear Capital.
• Why people in the military would make wonderful entrepreneurs.
Quotes:
“I’m unapologetic about wanting to be profitable.” — Matt Dean
“I truly believe that we can help small business owners achieve financial goals that they could not achieve on their own.” — Matt Dean
“To be good or average in the industry is not very hard. But who wants to be average?” — Matt Dean
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Matt Dean on LinkedIn
Markon Solutions
Shoe Dog
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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In any partnership, trust is a key player; both the trust you find in your partner and the trust you knowingly have in yourself. Joining BJ on this episode of Inspiring People & Places is John Grady, who serves as the Northeast Region Executive and Senior Vice President of Development at Wexford Science & Technology in Philadelphia.
As a seasoned executive with a wealth of experience in real estate, finance, city building, and corporate and public affairs, John has a remarkable track record of leading successful public-private partnerships. He knows how to craft compelling messaging and drive inclusive investment and growth across various sectors.
John also dives into his career arc, the great story of the Philadelphia Navy Yard and its redevelopment. In addition to key leadership lessons that John has learned while working on projects that bring the public and private sectors together in partnership.
Don’t miss this episode for his thoughts on how leadership has changed, why work transforms people and communities, and more!
Key Points From This Episode:
• The great story of Philadelphia’s Navy Yard and its redevelopment.
• The importance of private and public partnerships.
• Key leadership lessons John has learned while bringing together the public and private sectors to accomplish projects.
• The idea that work transforms people and communities.
Quotes:
“Working with good people really [gets] me motivated.” — John Grady
“The Navy Yard is a tremendous example of Philadelphia at its best. It’s got a bright future, and at its most fundamental core, it is a day-to-day real-life public-private partnership, every day.” — John Grady
“I’m a big believer that partnerships are built on trust. You have to go into a relationship trusting your partner, trusting what they can do well, trusting them to do that, and trusting yourself, knowing what you do well, and bringing that to the table.” — John Grady
“Work transforms communities. It transforms people.” — John Grady
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
John Grady on LinkedIn
Wexford Science & Technology
The Navy Yard Philadelphia
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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We are inspired by the leadership, passion, and mission-focus that veterans bring to the built environment. However, figuring out what your next steps are after serving can be challenging.
During this episode, we welcome Arpan Patel, Director of Operations at the US Air Force Reserve. He shares his story, from growing up with immigrant parents, to serving and leveraging his background in civil engineering to build a career on the other side.
You’ll also hear about the process of excavating his Ikigai, where the synergy of purpose, skills, opportunity, and passion lives. Arpan describes how he found the willingness to absorb what was available to him in order to make an informed decision about his future. We also explore the importance of favoring legacy and people over dollars and cents, before Arpan shares some of the ideas and principles that have supported him along the way.
Thanks for tuning in!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Navigating the gut punch of not reaching a lifelong goal to be an aviator.
• The mindset shift required to understand that engineering supports the mission.
• Leadership lessons for the transitioning veteran: networking and more.
• Understanding that people and legacy far outweigh dollars and cents.
Quotes:
“A theme throughout my history is networks that have helped bolster opportunities or allowed me to leverage the opportunities in front of me, opened doors, and allowed me to walk through them.” — Arpan Patel
“Life is unfair and doesn’t pan out the way that you see it, but that doesn’t mean that you have to be defeated.” — Arpan Patel
“Life is tough, but tough times don’t last, tough people do.” — Arpan Patel
“Do your best, go for it, do everything you need to do, but if it doesn’t work out, keep your head up.” — Arpan Patel
“When you find communities that have shared passion and values, you’ll connect.” — Arpan Patel
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Arpan Patel on LinkedIn
Society of American Military EngineersThe E-Myth Revisited
Working Genius
Ikigai
The Go-Giver
Getting Naked
Inspiring People & Places PodcastMCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Being able to inspire change is key to being a good leader. But more importantly, a leader needs to have the humility to reflect on when their capacity for driving that change has expired.
Joining us today is the former CEO of the Society of Women Engineers and former AVP of admin and operations at DePaul University, Betty Shanahan to discuss her remarkable career arc.
In this conversation, you’ll hear all about what inspired Betty to get into engineering, her education, career highlights, her time at the Society of Women Engineers, and so much more! We delve into her efforts through DePaul University to bring computer sciences into high schools in Chicago before Betty tells us about the importance of working on your career outside of your job and furthering your knowledge and skills.
We discuss balancing work and life, leadership, knowing when it’s time to step down as a leader, and celebrating your achievements as an engineer. Finally, Betty answers our rapid-fire questions and shares her favorite quotes, must-read books, her ideal dinner guests if she could invite anyone (dead or alive!), and what she hopes her legacy will be.
To hear all this and be reminded that you can get through any struggles you may face, tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Working on your career outside your job and balancing work/home life.
• What makes a good leader and the importance of knowing when your time is up.
• Why engineers need to celebrate their large achievements.
Quotes:
“When you struggle, you recognize [that] other people have [also] struggled and worked through it and continued to be successful.” — Betty Shanahan
“A lot of being a good leader is the humility of saying: ‘I don’t know a lot’.”— Betty Shanahan
“Engineers are responsible for our health, happiness, and safety. So all of us, as engineers, are contributing to the country, to individuals in our work. So we need to celebrate our large achievements as engineers.” — Betty Shanahan
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Betty Shanahan on Facebook
Society of Women Engineers
The Leadership Challenge
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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The built environment offers vast potential to impact those who live, work, and thrive in these spaces. Today’s guest on Inspiring People & Places is Joe Reagan, the Executive Vice President of Development at Wexford Science and Technology.
Join us as we explore the diverse aspects of his career journey, including how his understanding of deal-making and real estate within the built environment has deepened his appreciation for the financial implications of a mission. Joe also shares key leadership advice that has served him well throughout his career.
Additionally, we discuss why military veterans often occupy senior facility roles. Be sure to tune in to hear all this and more!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Understanding the deal-making and real estate of the built environment gave him an appreciation of the financial implications of a mission.
• The evolving economic model of healthcare and the economic drivers of the capital and real estate markets and how these two are playing out in Joe’s world.
• A leadership lesson that has served Joe throughout his career in the built environment.
Quotes:
“It’s [my] ability to communicate back and forth that has helped me adjust my career going forward.” — Joe Reagan
“There comes an appreciation of the value of knowing people you are going to be working with and why repeat business should be such a big part of everyone’s business plans.” — Joe Reagan
“[There is] potential to impact the built environment and the place that people live, work, [and] love. You really can have a profound impact on the built environment.” — Joe Reagan
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Joe Reagan on LinkedIn
Wexford Science and Technology
Bernard Cornwell's Richard Sharpe's Series 1 to 5 Books Set (Prey, Trafalgar, Fortress, Triumph, Tiger)
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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“When we value women, then we begin to value everyone.” These are the wise words of today’s guest; women’s advocate, international speaker, and author, Jill Tietjen.
In this conversation, you’ll hear about Jill’s early life and interest in math, her passion for encouraging women to pursue STEM careers, her incredible career, and so much more! We delve into the electrical engineering challenges Jill has encountered before discussing her opinions about how grids can be modernized and what the demands are.
Jill goes on to tell us about her writing career, where her love for books came from, and how she managed to persevere through writing 16 books. She even tells us how her life purpose to rewrite women into history ‘fell into her lap’ and shares one leadership lesson she has carried with her through her career.
Finally, our guest answers our rapid-fire questions and even tells us what she wants her legacy to be. Thank you for tuning in!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Jill tells us about her life, career, and mission to encourage women to go into engineering.
• How we can modernize electrical grids and current electrical demands.
• Where Jill’s passion for books came from and how she persevered through writing 16 books.
• How engineering can be a more attractive industry for women.
Quotes:
“When we value women, then we begin to value everyone and when we value everyone, then everyone’s ship rises.” — Jill Tietjen
“Not only are women not encouraged to be engineers and in the STEM fields, they’re also not written into our history books.” — Jill Tietjen
“We’re going to have to figure out alternatives in order to meet [electrical] demand.” — Jill Tietjen
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Jill Tietjen
Jill Tietjen on LinkedIn
Jill Tietjen on Facebook
Jill Tietjen on X
Over, Under, Around, and Through
Duty Calls
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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We're going to do things a little differently and speak to the younger generation: Avery Kraemer, Trey Kraemer, and Daniel Wits - BJ's daughter, son, and nephew.
Avery, Trey, and Daniel all describe what their parents do for work before giving us their own definitions of leadership and what it means to be a good leader. We discover what they like and dislike in the people they look up to and why leaders need to be both strict and easygoing.
Be sure to listen closely for a hidden BJ Masterclass in parenting! Thanks for listening!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Avery’s definition of a leader and her list of qualities that every good boss needs to have.
• Reminiscing on a moment when Avery saw herself as a leader.
• Daniel and Trey describe good leadership.
• What they love and dislike most about the people they look up to as leaders.
• Why good leaders are both strict and easygoing.
Quotes:
“I think everybody is drawn to help other people and building a career helping other people seems very attractive.” — BJ Kraemer
“We need to tie our work back to the people and how it serves people.” — BJ Kraemer
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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Great leaders are constantly making balanced decisions based on risks and rewards. Today on Inspiring People & Places, we discuss how leadership affects project outcomes.
In this solo episode, you’ll hear all about how the late Irv Richter and Hill International inspired BJ to think about what leaders do to drive successful project outcomes. We discuss the art of project management before breaking down the Army’s Composite Risk Management process and its principles. Finally, BJ explains why he believes a great leader synthesizes a risk/reward matrix in their head in order to drive project success.
You don’t want to miss this one so be sure to tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
• The importance of risk management and what leadership has to do with it.
• Why BJ believes that there is an art and a science to risk management.
• What risk management has to do with leadership: everything!
• Why you should avoid unnecessary risk and accept it when the benefits outweigh the costs.
• The incredible risk/reward matrix leaders balance in their heads.
Quotes:
“Risk management is a leader’s job.” — BJ Kraemer
“The art of decision making is knowing when you can accept some risk in order to maintain project momentum or project success.” — BJ Kraemer
“Great leaders have a continuous risk/reward matrix going on in their head and they know when to slow things down, they know when to call [a] halt, and they also know when to speed up even though there may be some risk associated with whatever the outcome is.” — BJ Kraemer
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
Composite Risk Management
Hill International
Irv Richter – Hill International
Inspiring People & Places Podcast
MCFA
MCFA Careers
BJ Kraemer on LinkedIn
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