In this episode of The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast, Billy and Hali sit down with Kathy Mazzarella, CEO of Graybar, to explore what it takes to reach the top and how young leaders can achieve success in leadership. Kathy emphasizes the importance of facing your fears and setting ambitious goals within realistic timeframes. She also shares insights on how no career path is a straight line to the top and the critical role leaders play in bringing others along on their journey.

Kathy discusses her philosophy of “gentle pressure relentlessly applied” and what it takes to balance the heart of humanity with the science of technology. She emphasizes that leadership isn’t just about achieving results, but about how those results are obtained, often requiring difficult decisions that may have short-term costs but are best for the team in the long run.

We also discuss the necessity of continuously evolving your team to avoid falling behind, the long-term investments in infrastructure, technology, and people that Graybar is making to ensure future success, and why true leadership is about focusing on everyone except yourself. Kathy also offers advice to emerging leaders: don’t give up when things get tough, and never let failure define you.

Tune in to gain insights on leadership, growth, and resilience from one of the industry’s top leaders.

Enjoy!

Billy and Hali are joined by Paul Decker, CEO of Mathematica, as he emphasizes the importance of proactive focus, objectivity, and consistency in both research and leadership.

Paul discusses the challenges and benefits of leading a largely remote organization, highlighting the intentional efforts made to connect with remote employees across the U.S. As a lifelong learner, Paul shares the significance of learning from peers and colleagues and the value he has found in having an executive leadership coach.

We discuss the impact of AI on Mathematica and how evolving technology has influenced the company’s approach to integrating new methodologies. Paul highlights the importance of blending AI with existing skill sets, using it as a tool to support employees while maintaining a focus on differentiating yourself from competition.

Later, Paul talks about the necessity of work-life balance, acknowledging that work is a part of life. He stresses the importance of being realistic about balance and effectively communicating your process with your team.

He also offers advice to emerging leaders: explore what’s available, and as you grow within your organization, propose ways to add value and make a meaningful impact.

Looking For More Leadership Nuggets? 

Discover the books and leaders mentioned in this episode: The Power Broker by Robert Caro

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast

What does it mean to be a leader? Why does learning about leadership matter? How can we become servant leaders? 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 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. We will be mining for the nuggets of wisdom from these dynamic leaders from throughout the country.

“The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership” is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. For more information, please visit the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Website.

This Podcast is edited by our friends at Deep Fried Studios.

Threaded Fasteners, Inc

Threaded Fasteners Inc. (TFI) is a 100% employee-owned business that specializes in the manufacturing, custom packaging, and distribution of steel fasteners. With over 270 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $14 million worth of inventory across 17 locations, to meet the global needs of customers from industries including electrical utilities, chemical and electrical, commercial marine construction, steel fabricators, metal building manufacturers and Department of Transportation (DOT) fabricators. More information about TFI can be found on its website at threadedfasteners.com or through social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

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For more information, please contact Hali Gibson at 251-432-0161 or visit: https://www.threadedfasteners.com

Tighten up those laces and get ready for a powerful episode of The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast, hosted by Billy Duren and Hali Gibson, as they are joined by Mike Mortensen, President and CEO of ARG Industrial.

Mike shares his story of growing within the ARG Industrial team, learning from the ground up, and developing into the leader he is today. The bootstrapping culture at ARG Industrial fosters a fast-paced, growth-oriented mindset that utilizes internal and industry resources effectively. Mike discusses how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) has helped him, as the visionary, to develop a plan and guide his team in their leadership development throughout the company. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a focus on team goals and using them as a roadmap for development.

Mike highlights the value of safety and support in the face of mistakes, which he believes are vital to a leader’s development. He and Billy also discuss the importance of psychological safety and support when communicating about the influence and development of AI in the workforce. Speaking directly to developed leaders, Mike underscores the importance of believing in yourself and becoming a lifelong learner. These boots were made for leading, get ready for another nugget packed episode, until next time, tighten up!

Looking For More Leadership Nuggets?
Discover the books and leaders mentioned in this episode:

What The Heck is EOS by Gino Wickman

The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz

Turn the Ship Around by L. David Marquet 

Wild at Heart by John Eldredge

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast

What does it mean to be a leader? Why does learning about leadership matter? How can we become servant leaders? 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 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. We will be mining for the nuggets of wisdom from these dynamic leaders from throughout the country.

“The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership” is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. For more information, please visit the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Website.

This Podcast is edited by our friends at Deep Fried Studios.

Threaded Fasteners, Inc

Threaded Fasteners Inc. (TFI) is a 100% employee-owned business that specializes in the manufacturing, custom packaging, and distribution of steel fasteners. With over 270 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $14 million worth of inventory across 17 locations, to meet the global needs of customers from industries including electrical utilities, chemical and electrical, commercial marine construction, steel fabricators, metal building manufacturers and Department of Transportation (DOT) fabricators. More information about TFI can be found on its website at threadedfasteners.com or through social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

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For more information, please contact Hali Gibson at 251-432-0161 or visit: https://www.threadedfasteners.com

In this episode, we talk with special guests from the Threaded Fasteners Senior Leadership Team; Chris Thomas (Sr. Vice President of Distribution), Mark Huddleston (Vice President of Supply Chain), Erick Ramos (Vice President of National Sales), and Robby Ashley (Vice President of Manufacturing). Together they discuss the TFI strategic anchors- solution-based services, people development, and operational excellence.

Mark and Robby explain that chasing perfection isn’t the goal; it’s about continuous improvement. Details matter in the path towards operational excellence and the little things are important, you don’t always get it right, but you can always make it right. Robby highlights that the leadership development programs don’t just impact employees work life, it impacts their home life as well. Mark highlights the importance of setting attainable goals for your team and defining what the goal is before you set the expectation; no one can hit a target they can’t see. They highlight the necessity of investment in new processes and improvements– have a vision, communicate that vision, and monitor the day to day.

Erick and Chris discuss how TFI provides “Solutions from the Ground Up” and what solution-based services means for the team. For Erick solutions-based services is more than just providing a fastener solution, its walking with customers every step of the way and providing solutions that they need and offering solutions that can help them better reach their goals. Erick and Chris highlight the importance of the people side of people development and how relating to employees and meeting them where they are is critical in creating a lasting development program. Erick highlights the importance of finding outside perspectives and challenging the “we have always done it this way” mindset. 

Listen in and get a peek behind the curtain with leadership insights directly from the Threaded Fasteners Team. Join us to understand what makes an effective leader and how core mission, core values, and strategic anchors set the blueprint for success!

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast

What does it mean to be a leader? Why does learning about leadership matter? How can we become servant leaders? 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 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. We will be mining for the nuggets of wisdom from these dynamic leaders from throughout the country.

“The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership” is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. For more information, please visit the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Website.

This Podcast is edited by our friends at Deep Fried Studios.

Threaded Fasteners, Inc

Threaded Fasteners Inc. (TFI) is a 100% employee-owned business that specializes in the manufacturing, custom packaging, and distribution of steel fasteners. With over 270 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $14 million worth of inventory across 16 locations, to meet the global needs of customers from industries including electrical utilities, chemical and electrical, commercial marine construction, steel fabricators, metal building manufacturers and Department of Transportation (DOT) fabricators. More information about TFI can be found on its website at threadedfasteners.com or through social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

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For more information, please contact Hali Gibson at 251-432-0161 or visit: https://www.threadedfasteners.com

Get ready to lead with another episode of the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership podcast with your hosts Billy Duren and Hali Gibson as they are joined by Rebecca Gray, CEO of Gardner’s Supply Company to discuss the essentials of supportive and aware leadership.

Rebecca stresses the importance of nurturing an open environment where successes are celebrated, and failure is embraced as a team. She and Billy discuss “failing fast and cheap” as a driving force for improvement and acknowledging failure as a process for success. She emphasizes that by promoting open conversations, encouraging new ideas, and celebrating both successes and failures, innovation and success can flourish. Rebecca then highlights the importance of a leader balancing high-level goals with detailed contributions. Rebecca also shares her insights on the evolution of eCommerce and the shift towards authenticity and storytelling in marketing. Tune in for another nugget filled episode, enjoy!

Looking For More Leadership Nuggets? 

Discover the books and leaders mentioned in this episode: Change by John Kotter 

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast

What does it mean to be a leader? Why does learning about leadership matter? How can we become servant leaders? 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 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. We will be mining for the nuggets of wisdom from these dynamic leaders from throughout the country.

“The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership” is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. For more information, please visit the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Website.

This Podcast is edited by our friends at Deep Fried Studios.

Threaded Fasteners, Inc

Threaded Fasteners Inc. (TFI) is a 100% employee-owned business that specializes in the manufacturing, custom packaging, and distribution of steel fasteners. With over 270 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $14 million worth of inventory across 16 locations, to meet the global needs of customers from industries including electrical utilities, chemical and electrical, commercial marine construction, steel fabricators, metal building manufacturers and Department of Transportation (DOT) fabricators. More information about TFI can be found on its website at threadedfasteners.com or through social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

###

For more information, please contact Hali Gibson at 251-432-0161 or visit: https://www.threadedfasteners.com

Welcome to another nugget-packed episode of the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast with our hosts, Billy Duren and Hali Gibson. Today, Daniel Goldstein, retired CEO and President of Folience, and an executive leader and experienced board member, joins us on the show.

 As an established leader in the ESOP community, Daniel shares his story of overseeing the transition from a media company to a holding company and acquiring an emergency vehicle manufacturer as part of building the Folience portfolio. He delves into the realities of employee ownership and the idea that shares are not free but earned with employees’ ideas, talents, dedication, and service. He also explores the need to embrace employee ownership in all shapes and sizes. Later in the episode, we discuss how Daniel is advocating for employee ownership globally and how companies are now embracing the spirit of employee ownership.

Throughout the episode, we dive into nuggets of leadership wisdom, from ideas like “plan your work and work your plan” to “luxury is how I spend my time.” We discuss what it means to invest in employees to help them feel welcome, respected, and heard, and what it means to empower employees to have a license to act. Daniel also advises executive-level leaders that while your title is often a part of your identity, it does not need to define you entirely. CEOs may always have “CEO” tattooed on their foreheads, but it is what you do with your leadership identity that makes the impact.

Looking for more leadership nuggets?

Discover the books and leaders mentioned in this episode: The Motive by Patrick Lencioni

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast

What does it mean to be a leader? Why does learning about leadership matter? How can we become servant leaders? 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 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. We will be mining for the nuggets of wisdom from these dynamic leaders from throughout the country.

“The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership” is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. For more information, please visit the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Website.

This Podcast is edited by our friends at Deep Fried Studios.

Threaded Fasteners, Inc

Threaded Fasteners Inc. (TFI) is a 100% employee-owned business that specializes in the manufacturing, custom packaging, and distribution of steel fasteners. With over 270 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $14 million worth of inventory across 16 locations, to meet the global needs of customers from industries including electrical utilities, chemical and electrical, commercial marine construction, steel fabricators, metal building manufacturers and Department of Transportation (DOT) fabricators. More information about TFI can be found on its website at threadedfasteners.com or through social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

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For more information, please contact Hali Gibson at 251-432-0161 or visit: https://www.threadedfasteners.com

On this special episode of the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership podcast, we are celebrating the 45th Anniversary of Threaded Fasteners and what it means to make an impact. Join Billy Duren and Hali Gibson as they welcome Debbie Rogers, Compliance & Special Projects Manager at Threaded Fasteners, into the meeting room. Debbie takes us on a journey of what 34 years as a member of the Threaded Fasteners Family is like and what it truly means to be an owner, a mentor, and to create a lasting legacy. She speaks about what it means to lead the way and how it feels to bring in others to carry the torch. She reflects on the early days of the company and how both TFI and she have developed over the years.

Then, Hali turns the interview to Billy, who discusses what it was like to see the people of TFI grow not just in numbers but also in their dedication to a lasting and impactful culture. Billy talks about what it means to have a cultural language and how the nuggets we gather impact and enrich the cultural experience.

As we reflect on 45 years of impact, servant leadership, and value creation, one theme remains constant – our people. It is our employee owners who truly make a lasting impact on our lives and the future of our team. As we gather this weekend for our own celebration, we challenge our listeners to reflect on the impact they are making on their teams, communities, and themselves.

From our family to yours, thank you.

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast

What does it mean to be a leader? Why does learning about leadership matter? How can we become servant leaders? 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 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. We will be mining for the nuggets of wisdom from these dynamic leaders from throughout the country.

“The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership” is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. For more information, please visit the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Website.

This Podcast is edited by our friends at Deep Fried Studios.

Threaded Fasteners, Inc

Threaded Fasteners Inc. (TFI) is a 100% employee-owned business that specializes in the manufacturing, custom packaging, and distribution of steel fasteners. With over 270 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $14 million worth of inventory across 16 locations, to meet the global needs of customers from industries including electrical utilities, chemical and electrical, commercial marine construction, steel fabricators, metal building manufacturers and Department of Transportation (DOT) fabricators. More information about TFI can be found on its website at threadedfasteners.com or through social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

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For more information, please contact Hali Gibson at 251-432-0161 or visit: https://www.threadedfasteners.com

Billy and Hali are diving into The Vault for this Season Two wrap-up to unearth the nuggets of wisdom from each of our guests who joined us throughout the season. Our guests shared what feels like an infinite number of leadership nuggets, from stressing that a title does not make you a leader, to being your authentic self, and empowering leaders to step up to the plate. From Chris Hicks’s emphasis on total teamwork to Rachel Hockenberger’s exploration of cultivating a coaching culture and completing the leadership puzzle, this season was a treasure trove of leadership nuggets.

Our guests wasted no time in sharing their stories, offering glimpses into their organizations, and opening up their minds and hearts to our listeners. We tackled challenging topics, from Brian Desigio’s discussion on leading with heart to Allison Miller’s insights into addressing leadership deficits and friendship gaps among young leaders today.

Join Billy and Hali as they recap Season Two. While we can’t reveal all the nuggets from this episode, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to each of the wonderful leaders who invested their time in our listeners by sharing their stories and talents. Thank you!

To our loyal listeners, we extend our sincere appreciation for your support throughout our leadership journey. Your ratings, reviews, and even just knowing you’re listening mean the world to us. You have been a true blessing. We value your thoughts and suggestions, so please stay connected with us and let us know what impacts you at podcast@threadedfasteners.com.

With gratitude, 

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Team

Looking For More Leadership Nuggets? 

Check out the episodes mentioned in this season’s recap: 

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Total Teamwork with Scott Ryals

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: The Ultimate Challenge with Brian Hart

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: The Weight of Leadership with Brendan Breen

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Owning Leadership with Kristie Mark

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Commanders Intent with Andrew Podner

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Constructively Discontent with Nicole Thomas

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: A Vision Of Gratitude with Grant Morring

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Leading from the Heart with Brian Desigio

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: A Legacy of Leadership with Ben Johnston

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Teaching the Next Generation of Leaders with Allison Miller

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Victorious Leadership with Renee Breazeale

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Frontline Relationship with Mike Perkins

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Earning It with Jim Allen

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Consistent Compassion with Chris Hicks

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: 50,000 Foot Views with Lisa Tilley

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Leadership Puzzle with Rachel Hockenberger

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast

What does it mean to be a leader? Why does learning about leadership matter? How can we become servant leaders? 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 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. We will be mining for the nuggets of wisdom from these dynamic leaders from throughout the country.

“The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership” is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts. For more information, please visit the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Website.

This Podcast is edited by our friends at Deep Fried Studios.

Threaded Fasteners, Inc

Threaded Fasteners Inc. (TFI) is a 100% employee-owned business that specializes in the manufacturing, custom packaging, and distribution of steel fasteners. With over 270 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $14 million worth of inventory across 16 locations, to meet the global needs of customers from industries including electrical utilities, chemical and electrical, commercial marine construction, steel fabricators, metal building manufacturers and Department of Transportation (DOT) fabricators. More information about TFI can be found on its website at threadedfasteners.com or through social media platforms including Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.

###

For more information, please contact Hali Gibson at 251-432-0161 or visit: https://www.threadedfasteners.com