Nuts and Bolts of Leadership

Hosted by Billy Duren

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May 2026

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The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast drills into the foundations of leadership for both the emerging and established leader. Billy Duren and Hali Gibson bring in dynamic leaders each week to discuss what being a leader, lifelong learner and people developer really looks like. Join us as we bring you proven leaders who want to serve you with their story, as well as teaching us how to grow as leaders. This business show mines for the leadership nuggets of wisdom from a dynamic leaders from throughout the country.

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May 15, 2026Episode 6555 min

Pro-Level Leadership: What Athletes Teach Executives with Lindsay Funkhouser

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren sits down with Lindsay Funkhouser, co-founder of Strategic Mixtape, to explore the true value of executive coaching. Lindsay explains that coaching is not just for fixing problems. It is a powerful growth tool for high performers. Drawing on her sports psychology background, she shows how leaders, like elite athletes, must continuously upgrade their power skills: self-awareness, listening, trust-building, and adaptive communication. The conversation highlights a common leadership trap: assuming what got you to this level will keep you there. As responsibilities grow, new skills become essential, especially the ability to truly connect, read your audience, and stay visible across all levels of the organization. Packed with practical insights on transparency, resilience under pressure, and creating high-trust cultures, this episode underscores that great leadership is a lifelong pursuit of learning, honest feedback, and bringing out the best in every team member. 3 Key Listener Takeaways Here are three key takeaways for leaders in any industry: 1. Executive Coaching Is Not Remedial - It's for High Performers Lindsay Funkhouser explains that executive coaching is often misunderstood as something for "fixing" weaknesses. In reality, it is designed to help high-performing leaders gain deeper self-awareness and develop human-oriented skills to reach their next level of effectivenes. 2. Clear Communication Differs from Effective Communication Communicating clearly is not the same as communicating effectively. Lindsay Funkhouser highlights that true leadership effectiveness comes from ensuring your message creates understanding, trust, and actionable alignment in your audience - not just making sense to yourself. 3. Leadership Self-Awareness Drives Organizational Health The emotional maturity and self-awareness of leaders directly shape company culture and can either multiply functional or dysfunctional behaviors. Lindsay Funkhouser emphasizes that leaders must know their own strengths, blind spots, and the gap between their intent and their real impact on people to avoid stagnation and foster healthy, resilient organizations. Show Overview 00:00 Discussing Lindsey's qualifications 06:03 Understanding Executive Coaching Benefits 08:24 Marriage coaching versus counseling myths 13:48 Encouraging open communication for leaders 15:50 Creating a safe work environment 20:37 Leadership lessons from CEO training 22:00 Evolving company culture with growth 26:20 Athletes training for high-pressure situations 31:32 Leadership communication skills 32:24 Challenges in effective communication 37:36 Being thoughtful about your audience 40:26 Impact of leadership self-awareness 44:14 Learning to manage ambitious ideas 46:04 Encouraging creativity in children 50:54 Building self-awareness with feedback 54:00 Lindsay's leadership and sports psychology

April 16, 2026Episode 641 hr 1 min

Humble, Hungry, Smart: Jared Levin's Playbook for Leading Mainely Tubs

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, Billy Duren interviews Jared Levin, CEO of Mainely Tubs, based in Scarborough, Maine. Jared shares his journey of becoming CEO right at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and how the company faced and adapted to the challenges. He talks about Mainely Tubs' unique employee-owned culture, their focus on hiring team players who are "humble, hungry, and smart," and keeping a "low jerk factor." Jared gives examples of how the company goes above and beyond for customers, emphasizing the mission to "leave you saying wow." He also discusses how leadership means setting an example, like picking up trash in the parking lot, and the importance of steady communication across locations with regular meetings and welcome breakfasts for new team members. The conversation covers lessons learned from leadership challenges, the value of reading management books, and the role of mentors. Jared gives practical advice for emerging leaders: focus on learning, find mentors, and lead for the right reasons, not just for rewards. 3 Key Listener Takeaways Here are three key takeaways for leaders in any industry: 1. Culture of Teamwork and "Low Jerk Factor" Jared emphasized that Mainely Tubs places high value on hiring and retaining humble, hungry, and smart team players, openly communicating their "low jerk factor" policy. This approach fosters a positive, collaborative work environment where teamwork is essential to both employee satisfaction and customer service.  2. Ownership Mindset in an Employee-Owned Company Mainley Tubs is 100% employee-owned, and Jared explained how this drives an ownership mentality, with team members often going the extra mile, whether it's staying late to help a customer or pitching in across departments. This sense of ownership translates into pride, responsibility, and exceptional service.  3. Service as the Core Differentiator In a commodity-driven industry, Jared highlighted that the only true differentiator is customer service, not product. The company's mission, "Leave you saying wow," depends on under-promising, over-delivering, and training all teams, from sales to service, to consistently exceed customer expectations. Show Overview 00:00 Adapting business during the pandemic 08:13 Why Jared loves his hot tub 13:43 Focusing on customer experience 21:18 Thinking like an owner 22:50 Leading by example 29:51 Company growth and customer focus 36:16 Team going above and beyond 40:40 Managing team dynamics 47:40 Leadership lessons and smooth transition 54:26 Advice for aspiring leaders 56:46 Experiencing Whitewater after rapid growth

April 1, 2026Episode 6347 min

Harvesting Success: Sarah Billings Shares Leadership Nuggets from Ag Consulting

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren talks with Sarah Billings, CEO of Centrol Ag Consulting. Sarah Billings shares her unique journey from small-town Minnesota to leading a company that helps farmers grow better crops using smart science and technology. They talk about how farm consulting is like being a "doctor for crops," giving advice but not selling products, which helps keep their recommendations unbiased. Sarah explains how farming is full of new technology, including GPS-guided tractors and data-driven approaches to make fields more efficient. She shares how her experience working "in the dirt" helps her connect with her team and understand their challenges. The two discuss the importance of building trust with both farmers and younger employees, and the value of sharing knowledge across generations. Leadership advice highlights staying flexible, always learning, and not being afraid to ask questions. Sarah Billings uses simple metaphors, like choosing between a hat, a haircut, or a tattoo, to talk about decision-making risks. Throughout, she stresses helping others succeed, whether it's farmers, co-workers, or the next generation, and encourages emerging leaders to get comfortable being a little uncomfortable to grow. 3 Key Listener Takeaways Here are three key takeaways for leaders in any industry: 1. Build Trust Through Experience: Walking the fields before stepping into the boardroom helped me "speak the language" of my team and clients. Credibility is earned by sharing in the real work. 2. Embrace Change & Technology: The Ag industry isn't just legacy, it's cutting edge. Staying curious and integrating new tools and thinking keeps you and your business ahead of the curve. 3. Culture Unlocks Growth: Even in a geographically spread-out company, fostering open communication and a willingness to ask questions drives collaboration, innovation, and individual development. Show Overview 00:00 Crop health checks for farmers 05:48 Learning about soybean farming 07:41 Discovering a passion for agriculture 10:52 Precision farming technology 13:01 Connecting with employees and farmers 17:09 Building trust and company culture 20:02 Building trust with your team 25:22 Building culture across distances 27:28 Making thoughtful vs. quick decisions 31:53 Framing the mission in agriculture 36:04 Recruiting young farmers today 38:31 Promoting employee ownership benefits 43:10 Reflecting on curiosity and confidence 44:42 Advice for young CEOs

March 18, 2026Episode 621 hr 0 min

Smothered, Covered & Mentored: Waffle House Leadership Served Bert Thornton's Way

In this episode, Billy Duren chats with Bert Thornton, former president and COO of Waffle House, about his journey from manager trainee to the top of an iconic restaurant chain. Bert Thornton shares how Waffle House became known for "good food fast" and how the company grew from a single diner to over 2,000 locations. The conversation dives into leadership lessons, including the importance of taking care of people "on both sides of the counter, "meaning both customers and employees. Bert Thornton talks about the value of hard work, perseverance, attitude, and mentoring. He explains that leaders aren't born but developed over time through discipline and learning from others. Listeners also hear some fun Waffle House stories, like how "Bert's Chili" became a menu staple and why grits were introduced to Texas customers. Bert's advice for young leaders? Surround yourself with successful people and find a great mentor—plus, never give up when things get tough. Whether you're a fan of Waffle House or want practical leadership wisdom, this episode delivers valuable insights in a down-to-earth style. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. Leadership is Developed, Not Innate Bert Thornton emphasizes that leaders aren't simply born—they're made through discipline, hard work, and a willingness to learn from others. He points out that personal growth and leadership come from acting, thinking, and communicating differently, and that much of his own leadership journey involved learning from mentors and real-world experiences. 2. Take Care of People on Both Sides of the Counter One of the foundational philosophies at Waffle House, highlighted by Bert Thornton, is the focus on caring for both employees and customers. By investing in associates (team members), they in turn take great care of the customers, creating a strong and sustainable company culture. 3. Mentorship is a 'Silver Bullet' for Success Bert Thornton shares that seeking out successful people and finding a great mentor is one of the most impactful things you can do for your career growth. He stresses that great mentors have a genuine interest in your success, a track record, expertise in your field, and respect from their peers. Show Overview 00:00 Origins of Waffle House 03:47 Waffle House's Second Generation Success 07:06 Efficient Waffle House Production Strategy 13:24 How Waffle House Chili Began 15:59 Southern Charm of Waffle House 18:17 Waffle House Leadership Principles 22:20 Waffle House Leadership Meetings 25:20 Creating Value by Serving Others 28:10 Leadership: Learned, Not Born 32:41 Parents and Coaches Shape Lives 35:46 8 Social Tells for Impressions 38:09 Perseverance and Leadership Insights 41:45 Leadership Begins with Ingredients 46:11 Advice for 25-Year-Old Self 48:34 4 Traits of Great Mentors 51:58 Mentorship and Leadership Insights 55:02 Leadership and Mentoring Insights 58:32 Success Through People and Leadership

February 25, 2026Episode 6135 min

Creating Lasting Value with Darryl Bryant

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren talks with financial consultant Darryl Bryant about the importance of financial planning, especially for young leaders. Darryl Bryant shares how starting small and staying consistent with savings, like in a 401(k) or ESOP, can make a huge difference over time, thanks to the magic of compounding. They discuss the challenges many people face, such as living paycheck to paycheck and being afraid to start budgeting, but stress that budgeting is actually a path to saying "yes" to your goals. The conversation also touches on employee ownership and how being an equity partner in a company creates added motivation and value for everyone involved. Darryl Bryant advises leaders to share their own experiences, communicate honestly about finances, and lead by example. For young people just getting started, he recommends beginning with a simple budget and taking small steps toward saving and planning for the future. The episode wraps up with advice about learning from older mentors, sticking with your plan, and the impact of everyday financial choices. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. Consistency Is Crucial in Financial Conversations  Darryl Bryant emphasized the importance of leaders consistently discussing financial benefits and planning with their teams. Regular, relatable conversations help employees better understand the value of tools like 401(k)s and ESOPs, making these concepts "stick" and become actionable.  2. Start Early and Stick With It  Both Billy Duren and Darryl Bryant highlighted that beginning financial planning early, even if it's just a small contribution, is foundational for long-term wealth. Staying in programs like the 401(k), despite economic ups and downs, can lead to exponential growth thanks to compounding and company contributions.  3. Leaders Influence by Sharing Personal Stories and Setting the Example The conversation pointed out that leaders, especially those with experience, can have the most impact by sharing their own financial journeys (successes and mistakes) with younger employees. This "lead by example" approach makes the topic less intimidating and encourages others to begin their own financial planning without feeling overwhelmed. Show Overview 00:00 Financial Planning and Responsibility 05:30 Prioritizing Pay and Benefits 09:02 Impact of Employee Ownership 12:02 Legacy, Stewardship, and Financial Planning 15:53 Stay In It: Lessons Learned 18:22 Employee Ownership & Value Creation 21:18 Darrell Bryant's Leadership Journey 24:47 Leadership Through Example 28:28 Comprehensive Financial Planning Basics 32:16 Built for Chaos; Seek Calm

February 11, 2026Episode 6052 min

Do Hard Better and Growing Great Leaders with Chris Adee and Lynnette Fritz

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren sits down with Chris Adee and Lynnette Fritz from OwnersEdge, an employee-owned company in Wisconsin. They talk about how Owner's Edge grew from a single business into a family of diverse operating companies, all united under one ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan). Chris Adee explains the importance of culture and choosing the right leaders when acquiring new businesses. Lynnette Fritz shares how the HR team helps find and retain talent across industries, and the value of leaders being self-aware, caring, and supportive. The group also discusses competitiveness, collaboration, and what it takes to scale up leadership in a growing company. One big takeaway? To be a strong leader, you have to "learn how to do hard better" - meaning, embrace challenges and keep improving. They wrap up with advice for new and future leaders: be self-aware, keep learning, and grow your network. If you're looking for real-world guidance on leadership, this episode is full of practical insights and inspiration. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. Employee Ownership Drives Culture and Performance  The discussion highlights how Owner's Edge utilizes a shared ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) structure across its diverse family of companies. This approach gives every employee a stake in the company's success, fostering a unified culture and incentivizing high performance and collaboration.  2. Self-Awareness Is Foundational to Leadership  The speakers emphasize self-awareness as a critical trait for leaders and emerging leaders. Knowing your strengths, values, and triggers enables better decision-making, authenticity, and creates a foundation for developing others as leaders.   3. Learn to "Do Hard Better" as a Leader One of the standout points is about embracing challenges rather than expecting things to get easier. Leaders must learn to navigate difficult conversations, decisions, and situations. Developing resilience and adaptability is essential for growth and long-term success.  Show Overview 00:00 Expert Insights on Employee Ownership 05:10 Building a Diversified ESOP Portfolio 07:57 Evolution of an Employee-Owned Business 09:39 Business Diversification and Divestment 15:52 Mastering the Holdco Discipline 19:29 Leadership, Culture, and Trust 21:47 Leadership Traits and Ownership Vision 23:41 Core Values: Humble, Hungry, Aware 28:56 HR Collaboration and Competitiveness 31:30 Vertical Integration and Leadership Scaling 36:15 Leadership Feedback and Decision-Making 38:42 Ownership Mentality in Decision-Making 43:35 Leadership Blind Spots and Empowerment 46:45 Starting Your Leadership Journey 47:51 The Power of Networking 52:16 Nuts and Bolts Podcast Insights

November 19, 202546 min

A Heart of Thanksgiving: Leadership, Faith, and Resilience with Rear Adm. Dr. Endel Lee

In this special Thanksgiving episode of The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren welcomes Dr. Endel Lee, a Marine Corps veteran and retired Navy chaplain, to discuss leading with gratitude, even in the face of life's challenges. Endel Lee shares powerful stories from his time serving in combat and surviving Hurricane Katrina, explaining how those experiences helped him focus on what truly matters: people and faith. They discuss the idea that leadership is about influencing with compassion and conviction, not just authority. Endel Lee offers practical advice, like counting your blessings even in adversity and reframing challenges as opportunities for growth. He also emphasizes the importance of listening and asking great questions to build strong teams. This episode reminds us that leadership isn't just a position; it's a mindset rooted in gratitude, empathy, and a commitment to serving others. Whether you're a seasoned executive or just starting your leadership journey, these real-world lessons will help you lead with a grateful heart. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. Gratitude as a Leadership Posture, Not Just an Event Endel Lee and Billy Duren emphasize that true gratitude isn't just reserved for holidays like Thanksgiving; it's an ongoing posture and mindset. Leaders who cultivate a daily attitude of thankfulness are better equipped to handle challenges and inspire those around them. 2. The Power of Perspective and Reframing Challenges Endel Lee shares how both military and life crises can force us to reconsider what really matters. By "expanding the box" (our worldview) and searching for blessings even in adversity, leaders, and anyone, can foster resilience, adaptability, and personal growth. 3. Leadership Through Influence and Empathy, Not Authority Alone Throughout the episode, Endel Lee discusses transitioning from an authoritarian to an influencer mindset, stressing that successful leaders are those who listen, show empathy, and compel others to follow because they want to—not because they have to. Gratitude and humility are central to this approach. Show Overview 00:00 Dr. Lee: Veteran & Chaplain 05:04 Leadership, Values, and Life's Reality 07:44 Navigating Trauma with Understanding 11:36 Reframe and Count Blessings 15:00 Iraq, Katrina, and Starting Over 19:58 Finding Peace During Chaos 23:36 Djibouti Desk Alignment Conflict 25:49 Letting Trust Take Priority 27:34 Buffalo Bonding in Crisis 31:59 Leadership: Influence Over Authority 35:01 Faith, Leadership, and Marine Corps 38:01 Superpower: Lifelong Leadership Impact 42:24 Listening, Questions, Gratitude, Faith 44:13 Repurposed, Not Retired

October 23, 2025Episode 5842 min

Leadership Across Borders with Alberto Aguilar of Carris Reels

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren talks with Alberto Aguilar, President and CEO of Carris Reels, and Erick Ramos, Senior VP of Business Development at Threaded Fasteners. Alberto shares his journey from General Manager to CEO and discusses what makes Carris Reels unique, including their employee ownership and a focus on continuous improvement. For this special episode, most of the conversation is in Spanish, highlighting the importance of diversity and reaching a wider audience. Alberto talks about leadership principles, building a strong workplace culture, and the excitement of managing teams across different locations, such as Indiana, Connecticut, Canada, Mexico, and California. He shares insights on profit sharing, mentoring future leaders, and the importance of caring for employees. The episode wraps up with book recommendations, including "Cracking the Leadership Code" and "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team." Overall, it's an inspiring look at leadership, teamwork, and the power of communication in both English and Spanish. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. The Importance of Employee Ownership Alberto Aguilar highlights the impact of employee ownership through the ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) and how it creates a powerful difference in employees' lives. This ownership model encourages greater commitment and a sense of pride among staff. 2. Continuous Improvement and Leadership Development Alberto emphasizes his focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence. He also mentions leadership development through external coaching programs and the preparation of potential future leaders, reflecting the company's dedication to evolving leadership at all levels. 3. The Value of Communication Across Cultures The episode's unique feature, a full conversation in Spanish, demonstrates the value of inclusive communication, particularly in organizations with diverse and international teams. This commitment not only bridges language barriers but also strengthens organizational culture and employee engagement.

October 7, 2025Episode 5750 min

Leadership Blueprint for Growth with Lynn Bruns

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, Billy Duren welcomes Lynn Bruns, CEO of ISG Architect and Engineering Services. Lynn shares his journey from engineer to leader and the importance of recognizing leadership potential in others early on. He discusses how ISG's unique growth model allows talent to flourish no matter their location, emphasizing trust, open communication, and a culture of celebrating wins and learning from challenges. Lynn highlights ISG's Leadership Acceleration Program, which develops emerging leaders with coaching and group experiences. He describes how the company's "blueprint for growth" and transparent communication help keep their widespread teams aligned and energized. As an employee-owned company, ISG focuses on both building people up and achieving business goals together. The conversation wraps up with Lynn giving advice to young leaders: surround yourself with people who make you better and always be willing to learn. He also shares his concern about focusing on developing "thinking people" in a world of rising technology. If you're interested in real stories on leadership, team energy, and people development, this episode is full of practical takeaways. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. Intentional Leadership Development Drives Growth  Lynn Bruns emphasizes the critical role of investing in leadership development programs, such as ISG's Leadership Acceleration Program. By intentionally identifying and nurturing emerging leaders, organizations create a strong leadership pipeline that supports ambitious growth goals and builds a shared culture across wide geographies.  2. Building Trust Through Candid Communication The episode highlights how trust is foundational in any successful organization. Bruns discusses the importance of open, honest feedback and accountability in building a culture where people feel safe to speak up, ask questions, and clarify intentions—essential for reducing wasted time and enhancing collaboration.  3. Leaders Must Focus on People Over Processes or Technology While acknowledging advances in technology and the challenges they bring, Bruns asserts that the real competitive advantage lies in developing thinking people. He cautions against depending too heavily on technology at the expense of critical thinking and authentic relationships, underscoring that investing in people pays off in sustainable business success. Show Overview 00:00 Decentralized Growth Model Strategy 05:02 Discovering Leadership Potential at 13 09:52 Leadership Development and Communication 12:24 Building Momentum: Strategic Flywheel 15:47 Clarifying Leadership Roles and Responsibilities 18:38 Blueprint for Growth and Alignment 21:49 Resolving Friction Through Communication Framework 25:19 Building Trust Through Behavioral Feedback 30:57 Exploring Business Ownership Options 33:23 Celebrating Wins and Achievements 38:24 Strategic Relationship-Driven Growth 41:32 Unprecedented Strength and Future Goals 46:15 Leadership and Critical Thinking Challenges

September 24, 2025Episode 5650 min

Sparking Innovation with Ray Brown

In this episode of Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, host Billy Duren sits down with Ray Brown, CEO and board chair of Scintilla EG holding company, which leads the Esco Group. Ray shares how the company's three unique business units, electric, automation, and safety, work together while embracing their own cultures. He explains why a holding company model allows each group to shine, drive innovation, and attract new opportunities through mergers and acquisitions. Ray and Billy delve into why automation and AI are crucial for manufacturers, not to replace workers, but to meet the increasing demand as older generations retire and fewer young people enter the workforce. Ray stresses how curiosity, permission to try (and fail), and employee ownership fuel Esco's culture of growth. He also discusses the importance of community involvement and shares stories about Esco's support during local crises. For businesses facing workforce and technology challenges, Ray's advice is to invest in people, encourage curiosity, and create lasting value for employees and their families. This episode is packed with real-life leadership wisdom and inspiration for helping teams grow and succeed together. 3 Key Listener Takeaways 1. The Importance of Cultivating Distinct Cultures Within Business Units Ray Brown explains the decision to adopt a holding company model, emphasizing that different business units often have unique cultures and operational styles. By allowing each to develop its own identity, Esco Group empowers its teams to excel and fosters innovation tailored to their distinct workforces and client needs.  2. Staying Curious Fuels Innovation and AI Adoption Ray highlights curiosity as a core value, driving both personal and organizational growth, particularly in the adoption of new technologies such as automation and AI. He encourages leaders to model curiosity, share use cases, and give employees permission to experiment and even fail, all of which help demystify new tech and build a culture ready to adapt and improve.  3. Investing in People Creates Lasting Value Throughout the conversation, Ray and Billy stress that people are at the heart of successful organizations. Whether through mentoring, leadership development, or supporting employees during community crises, investing in people not only strengthens organizations but also creates a positive ripple effect for families and the broader community. This people-first focus is central to both Esco and the broader employee ownership movement.  Show Overview 00:00 ESOP Strategy: Exploring Holding Companies 06:16 Ray Brown: A High-Energy Innovator 07:35 Origins of Esco Automation 12:26 Scaling AI for Organizational Efficiency 13:51 Teaching Leadership Through Experience 19:12 Holistic Career Development Journey 21:35 Understanding Millennial and Gen Z Communication 26:04 Dedicated Leadership and Employee Ownership 30:12 Community Resilience and Support Strategies 32:29 Fostering Leadership and Growth Strategy 36:19 Strategic Business Planning Approach