Give Us The Dirt

Hosted by Brandon Lindsey

Business Management Education

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Mar 2026

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About the show

We’re talking with the men and women who’ve built the communities in which we live and work. We’ll hear about their businesses, their projects and their teams… what makes THEM put their boots on every day and go to work. Then we’ll dig a little deeper!

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60 recent

March 25, 2026Episode 945 min

6.9 Built to Lead: Women in Construction

In this episode of Built to Lead, our host Brandon sits down with three powerful women shaping the future of construction at Hoopaugh Grading Company. Katie, Director of Team Development, Jessica, Senior Recruiter, and Salma, a rising Superintendent, share their real, unfiltered journeys. How they got their start, the challenges they faced, and the moments that pushed them to level up.From stepping onto job sites for the first time to building confidence in leadership roles, this conversation dives into the importance of mentorship, community, and finding your people in spaces where representation still matters.If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to carve your own path, grow in your career, and stand solid in your purpose this one’s for you.

February 25, 2026Episode 81 hr 1 min

6.8 Boots & Books: Different Paths, Same Industry

What does it take to build a career in construction? For some, it starts in the classroom. For others, it begins in the trench. In this episode of Give Us the Dirt, three HGC team members reflect on how their individual journeys shaped their paths into the industry.From earning a degree in project management and navigating the challenges of transitioning into the field, to beginning hands-on utility work at just 18 years old and rising into senior leadership, this conversation highlights the value of both education and experience.Together, they discuss how passion, persistence, and practical knowledge influence growth, credibility, and leadership on today’s jobsites. It’s an honest look at how different starting points can lead to meaningful, long-term careers in construction — and how each path brings its own strengths to the table.

February 11, 2026Episode 71 hr 1 min

6.7 Work That Matters with Taplin Group LLC

For more than 70 years, Taplin Group has done one thing exceptionally well: they’ve built a legacy that lasts. What started as a small, family-run sewer cleaning business in Kalamazoo has grown into a trusted partner on complex underground and environmental projects all without losing sight of the people, culture, and standards that made them who they are.In this episode of Give Us The Dirt, Brandon Lindsey sits down with Mitchell Taplin, fourth-generation Training Director, and Alexis Davis, Director of Marketing & Growth, to unpack what it really means to carry a multi-generational legacy. From early days on the job, to “first in, last out” moments on major projects, to shaping a culture that puts people first. They dig into how patience, responsibility, and intentional growth create a company built to last.If you want the inside scoop on family-driven leadership, training as a growth engine, and how to grow big without losing your soul, this episode is for you.

February 4, 2026Episode 644 min

6.6 Employee Ownership at HGC with President Brian McManus

Host Brandon sits down with CEO Brian McManus for a real conversation about one of the most significant milestones in the company’s history, the transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Brian reflects on what 2025 has looked like for the company, including the challenges brought on by relentless rain and the setbacks that tested operations, timelines, and morale.At the heart of the conversation is what ESOP ownership truly means: shared success, long-term financial security, and building a company that teammates can grow with and retire from. Brian shares why transitioning to an ESOP was such an important step, how it aligns with the company’s values, and why investing in employees as owners strengthens both the culture and the future of the business.The episode also highlights the role of the company’s Academy in preparing teammates for that future. Providing education, hands-on training, and clear pathways for growth within the organization. From weathering setbacks to creating opportunity through ownership, this episode offers a transparent look at how the company is building resilience, accountability, and a legacy that belongs to everyone.

December 17, 2025Episode 547 min

6.5 From Startup to Scale with Michael Botts

In this episode, host Brandon sits down with Michael Botts, President Botts Grading LLC who knows firsthand that building a business isn’t just about iron and machines. It’s about people.Michael opens up about launching a construction company alongside family already in the industry, navigating the blessings and the tension that comes with working blood-deep in business. From leadership lessons to real talk about trust, growth, and accountability, he breaks down why investing in your crew matters more than owning the flashiest equipment on the yard.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build something that lasts,within a company and a family. This conversation hits home. From leadership and accountability to taking care of your crew, he explains why investing in your people will always matter more than having the flashiest equipment on the yard.

November 28, 2025Episode 41 hr 6 min

6.4 Behind the Build: Stories From the Lens with Seth Fargher

In this episode, Brandon sits down with the founder of Construction Video Pros and Heightened Creative, a leading media specialist whose work brings the construction industry to life through storytelling and visual strategy.Together, they explore the unique challenges of producing authentic content in a fast-paced, blue-collar environment. From navigating different company cultures to showcasing both the strengths and shortcomings he’s witnessed across the industry.He shares his approach to helping field crews and leadership feel comfortable on camera, creating space for voices that aren’t always heard but deserve recognition. The conversation highlights how thoughtful media production strengthens trust, enhances communication, and positively impacts companies, customers, and the workers who build every project from the ground up.Tune in for an insightful look at how storytelling is reshaping the future of construction communication. ????????️

October 29, 2025Episode 31 hr 10 min

6.3 The World vs American Construction with Aaron Witt

Brandon welcomes back the visionary entrepreneur and CEO of Buildwitt, Aaron Witt, for an eye-opening dive into the world of construction. From projects across the globe to the challenges at home, Aaron shares his unique perspective on how the U.S. stacks up against international practices. What are we missing? Where are we excelling? And most importantly, how can we elevate the construction game in America? Tune in and discover the lessons the world can teach us about building smarter, faster, and better?

June 25, 2025Episode 21 hr 2 min

6.2 Built on Faith: Love, Leadership & Legacy with Stephen Phelan

In this heart-centered episode, host Brandon sits down with faith-driven entrepreneur Stephen Phelan to dive into the foundation of a mortgage company that’s anything but traditional. Stephen shares how love, grace, and unwavering faith are the true drivers behind his team’s success and how those same principles can transform any business from the inside out. From cultivating a culture rooted in support to leading with purpose, this convo explores how loving your people first can build more than just a companyit can build a legacy. Whether you're an entrepreneur, believer, or just looking to lead with more heart, this one’s for you.

June 11, 2025Episode 11 hr 2 min

6.1 Silence the Imposter: Breaking Barriers with Gary Frey

Join host Brandon as he sits down with CEO, speaker, and author Gary Frey to dive deep into the real battle with imposter syndrome. They’ve met a few times before, but this time Gary opens up about what inspired his book Silence the Imposter — sharing his personal struggles, the moments that held him back, and the tools he used to overcome self-doubt. Plus, they break down what imposter syndrome looks like in the high-pressure world of construction and how you can silence those inner doubts to own your success. This episode is for anyone ready to stop feeling like a fraud and start stepping into their power. Don’t miss it!

February 26, 2025Episode 140 min

6.0 Weathering the Storm: Brian McManus on 2024’s challenges & HGC’s vision for 2025"

Rain or shine, construction never stops—especially at Hoopaugh Grading Company. In this episode, host Brandon sits down once again with Brian McManus, owner of HGC, to unpack the challenges of 2024, including the countless rain days that tested the industry. Brian shares how the company navigated the ups and downs, the lessons learned along the way, and what exciting projects and ambitious goals are on the horizon for 2025. If you're interested in leadership, resilience, and what it takes to push forward in the construction world, you won’t want to miss this conversation!