Episodes
56
Latest episode
Aug 2026
Language
EN
Join Simpson Strong-Tie for Strong Conversations as we invite partners, colleagues and leaders for insightful conversations. Stretch your mind with powerful ideas that will help you evolve how you think about the industry — and your place in it. We’ll dive deep into issues we all face — forging stronger connections and professional relationships along the way. Don’t miss the opportunity to get an in-depth look inside the minds of innovators and leaders who are reshaping and advancing the world we build and live in.
In this episode: Why cutting your marketing budget during a downturn may be your biggest mistake How trust and "share of voice" influence long-term business growth The role technology is playing in transforming both publishing and building products Why integrity and community continue to set the industry apart How LBM Journal is helping develop the next generation of leaders
In this episode of Strong Conversations, Russ Kathrein, Vice President of Lumber & Building Materials at Do it Best, shares lessons from a lifetime in the building materials industry—from growing up in a family-owned lumber yard to leading one of the industry's largest cooperative organizations. Through stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and leadership, Russ explains why relationships, community, and adaptability remain the foundation of long-term success. In this episode: - Why reputation is your greatest asset - The keys to building a successful independent lumber business - How community relationships create lasting competitive advantages - Leadership lessons earned through adversity, persistence, and experience - The unforgettable story behind Russ's appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show
In Part 2 of this Strong Conversations series, host Sam Marcoux continues the conversation with Peter Jackson, CEO of Builders FirstSource, diving into what it really takes to lead at the highest level. Peter shares how he manages the constant demands on his time, prioritizes what matters most, and stays grounded through daily routines and personal reflection. From intentional calendar management to continuous learning and embracing emerging technologies like AI, he offers a behind-the-scenes look at how great leaders stay focused, adaptable, and effective. The episode closes with candid advice for the next generation—highlighting the power of resilience, hard work, and solving problems to build a meaningful career. In this episode: Prioritize what truly matters Lead with intention and discipline Stay grounded to stay effective Embrace tools that elevate performance Solve problems to create impact
In Part 1 of a two-part series of Strong Conversations, host Sam Marcoux sits down with Peter Jackson, CEO of Builders FirstSource, to explore the journey behind his leadership. From a childhood shaped by constant change to early career missteps and breakthrough moments, Peter shares how adaptability, resilience, and a willingness to chase opportunity defined his path. He reflects on the pivotal moment where ambition was misunderstood, the lessons learned from failure, and the mindset that ultimately propelled him to the CEO role. This episode offers an honest look at how persistence, self-awareness, and bold thinking can turn setbacks into defining moments of success. In this episode: Adaptability builds leaders Failure reveals direction Ambition invites resistance Chase the opportunity, not comfort Bold vision drives outcomes
In this episode of Strong Conversations, host Sam Marcoux sits down with Dr. Felix Vasquez, CEO of Hyphen Solutions, to explore his journey from a curious gamer to a technology leader shaping the building industry. From early days coding on Atari systems to leading innovation across complex industries, Felix shares how curiosity, continuous learning, and a commitment to sharing knowledge have defined his career. The conversation dives into the evolution of technology in homebuilding, the importance of connecting fragmented supply chains, and why embracing AI and digital transformation is critical for future success. This episode is a compelling look at how mindset, innovation, and adaptability drive lasting impact. In this episode: Curiosity drives opportunity Never stop learning Share to scale impact Simplify through technology Adopt early, win big
In this episode of Strong Conversations, Amy O’Connor shares a deeply personal and powerful story of resilience, identity, and perspective. A two-time cancer survivor, Amy reflects on facing uncertainty, making impossible decisions, and ultimately rediscovering what it means to simply want your life back. In this episode: Facing the unthinkable and choosing to keep fighting Why she didn’t want a new life—she wanted her life back The mindset shift that changes everything A powerful question: would you want your life back as it is today? A candid, honest conversation about resilience and perspective.
In this powerful episode of Strong Conversations, Rick Davis of Building Leaders, Inc. opens up about mental health, vulnerability, and the unseen pressures within the sales profession. Drawing from personal experience and decades of leadership, Rick shares a candid perspective on depression, stigma, and why seeking help is not a weakness—but a necessity. In this episode: Breaking the stigma around mental health in the industry The hidden pressure of sales and constant performance expectations How mindset and self-talk shape both success and stress Why seeking help early can change everything A candid, important conversation for anyone in leadership or sales.
In this episode of Strong Conversations series, Sunny Bowman, CEO of Dakota County Lumber, joins our host Sam Marcoux and shares what it takes to lead a family business into the future. From second-generation ownership to driving innovation in a traditionally slow-to-change industry, Sunny offers a candid look at balancing legacy, leadership, and forward-thinking strategy. Key Takeaways: The responsibility and mindset shift that comes with full ownership and leading a legacy business How to modernize a traditional industry while staying rooted in core values Creating a culture of candor, continuous improvement, and team trust Why independent lumber yards can thrive through agility, innovation, and customer focus Preparing for the future with technology, AI, and last-mile delivery advancements
In this episode of Strong Conversations, Mike Ellerbrook, Executive Vice President of UFP Site Built, shares his 27-year journey from working in a plant at 18 to leading within a major building products company. The conversation dives into culture, multi-generational leadership, and what it really takes to stay relevant and win in a constantly evolving industry. Key Takeaways: - Why culture and having fun at work are essential to long-term success in the industry - Leading across generations: adapting your style while staying authentic and consistent - The importance of “dual learning” between experienced leaders and younger talent - Setting a clear expectation to win—and tailoring how you coach individuals to get there - Navigating post-COVID market shifts and resetting expectations for sustainable growth
In this episode of Strong Conversations: Real Stories, Sam Marcoux sits down with Steve Swinney, CEO and co-founder of Kodiak Building Partners, to unpack what it really means to bet big—and do it thoughtfully. From launching Kodiak during the Great Recession to leading a 5,500-employee organization into its next chapter with QXO, Steve shares lessons on risk, culture, scaling, and leadership. The conversation blends hard-won business insight with humor, reflection, and a few 1980s hair-metal references along the way. --- Episode Highlights · Why Kodiak’s biggest bets were bold but calculated · Lessons from starting a company during the Great Recession · How culture became the #1 diligence factor in acquisitions · What it’s like being acquired after 15 years of growth Steve is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Kodiak Building Partners, a transformative force in the building materials industry that he has steered through strategic growth and 40+ acquisitions throughout the past 13 years.
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Valerie Hail
Mediaite
PodcastOne
Russ Mathews
