Letter from the President – October 2023

Wisdom Nuggets

Almost a year ago, we birthed the idea of creating a podcast in order to communicate the nuts and bolts of leadership. The intent was to deliver leadership principles derived from the stories of proven leaders from all across the country. We successfully concluded our first season with our twelfth episode featuring our Senior Leadership explaining why we chose Humble – Hungry – Aware as our core values.

One interesting observation from the various guests were the themes that developed with each episode. For example, Mike Rizzo talked about the plurality of leadership; it’s not about me; it’s about the team. Susan Shaw spoke passionately about radical servitude and leading with vulnerability. With every guest, the wisdom nuggets just kept coming;

  • Learn how to ask tough questions.
  • Know the difference between strategic talent and execution talent.
  • Find your mission-driven leadership goals.
  • Invest in leaders at every level.
  • Lead from who you are.
  • Invest in continuous improvement.
  • Seek out challenges.
  • Find a mentor to walk with you on your leadership journey.

I was introduced to Wisdom Nuggets many years ago by Coach Mike Gottfried at a Team Focus Camp. Team Focus is an organization created to walk with young men without fathers. Coach Mike brought in speakers to speak to the young men about life and to mentor them as they navigated life without their father. He encouraged the campers to get out their notebooks and write down the “wisdom nuggets” as the speakers told their stories, and at the end of the camp, they would have an incredible resource.

Two thoughts I’d like to challenge you with on wisdom nuggets. First, they appear every day, in all sorts of situations, from all sorts of people, but (and don’t miss this) you HAVE TO BE looking for them. Secondly, share your story. One of your greatest possessions is your story, the good, the bad, and the ugly. Often times, wisdom nuggets come in the form of what NOT to do. So what’s the most recent nugget you’ve placed in your bucket? Let’s be intentional today, looking for the wisdoms all around us.

-Billy Duren, President

Billy D.

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

On this episode, Billy and Hali are joined by Brendan Breen, President of the Industrial Supply Association. Join us as we lift the lid on what it means to be in the driver’s seat of your own opportunities.

Brendan speaks on what it means to be a first-time people leader and how a leaders job is to open up the floodgates for people to give input. Learn how to plug people into the right place at the right time and the power of mentorship. Discover how to be in the driver’s seat of your own opportunity and the power of making a plan.

Looking for more leadership nuggets? 

Discover the books and leaders mentioned in this episode: Gary Vaynerchuk, NYT Bestselling Author, and Good to Great and Built to Last by Jim Collins.

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 260 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $13 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/

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

Welcome to another episode of the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership; join Billy Duren and Hali Gibson as they sit down with Brian Hart, Executive Vice President of Chemcote. They dive into Brian’s 70% rule of leadership, building a strong company culture, and how to move onward from the day-to-day tasks to focus on the bigger picture.

Brian discusses how being available to people is his number one priority and discusses how regardless of industry, people can be the greatest challenge, enjoyment, and asset for any leader. Hear how Brian tackles challenging himself and his team and the practical ways that he addresses challenges. Learn how leadership requires setting the tone, setting standards, and challenging teams to match your effort and commitment. Sit back and get ready to dive into another great episode!


Looking For More Leadership Nuggets?

Discover the books mentioned in this episode: The 5 Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni


Looking For More Leadership Nuggets?

Discover the books mentioned in this episode: The 5 Dysfunctions of a Team 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 260 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $13 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/

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

On this episode, Billy and Hali sit down with Scott Ryals, CEO of Vermeer Great Plains to discuss what it means to be a leader who has worked their way through the ranks, makes the tough decisions, and is committed to spearhead cultural change.

Scott drives home the idea that being a leader shouldn’t be about bossing people around and needs to be about coaching and mentoring emerging leaders. Discover what total teamwork means and dive into why it’s the leaders responsibility to drive culture. Jump into season two with us and enjoy the show!

Looking for more leadership nuggets? 
Discover the books mentioned in this episode; The Motive by Patrick Lencioni and Managing by Values by Ken Blanchard and Michael O’Connor.

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 260 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $13 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/

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Season One Recap

On this episode, Billy and Hali discuss their key takeaways from season one. Join us as they reflect on the inspiring guests and insightful conversations from the first twelve episodes. From the humble coaching of Coach Mike Gottfried, to the wisdom-filled leadership of Cam Marston, and each of the guests that shared their leadership expertise throughout the season. Our conversations have been filled with insights, stories, and an endless supply of wisdom nuggets.

Join Billy and Hali as they recap season one, but before we dive into all of that, we want to take a moment to thank our loyal listeners for their support throughout this first season. Your engagement, ratings, and reviews have been invaluable in spreading the message of leadership and inspiring leaders at every level.

Now, let’s jump into the meeting room and reflect on the key takeaways from season one of the “Nuts and Bolts of Leadership.” We appreciate your thoughts and opinions, so be sure to stay connected and let us know what resonates with you at podcast@threadedfasteners.com.

Get ready for an engaging discussion filled with insights, stories, and inspiration. So without further ado, let’s get this episode started.

 

 

 

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 260 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $13 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/

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Humble, Hungry, Aware

On this episode, Billy and Hali are joined by Jerrad Douberly, COO; David Spurlock, EVP; and Ashley Bryan, CFO of Threaded Fasteners, Inc, as they wrap up season one of the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership Podcast. Drill into Humble, Hungry, and Aware and discover how these core values are the cornerstones of TFI Leadership.

Jerrad tackles Humble and highlights the importance of humility as a posture, not just a position. David navigates what it means to be Hungry and balancing ambition with discipline. Ashley analyzes the value of being Aware of both yourself as a leader and those around you. Billy and Hali give a peak behind the curtain as they give insights into the leadership language at Threaded Fasteners, Inc. Be ready for a waterfall of leadership nuggets during this season one wrap up. Tighten up and see you next time, enjoy the show!

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 260 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $13 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/

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: From Academics to Actions with Ginny Vanderslice

On this episode, Billy and Hali are joined by Ginny Vanderslice, Founding Principal of Praxis Consulting Group, faculty member at the University of Pennsylvania, and author of ‘Leadership Development and Succession.’ Ginny discusses the importance of using research and data to anchor leadership tactics and practices. Join us as we explore how emerging leaders can position themselves for more opportunities and how established leaders can gain valuable insights into the daily experiences of their team. Discover the significance of viewing succession planning as a comprehensive leadership system and learn how leaders can adapt when expanding their team. Get your notebooks ready for this page turning discussion, enjoy the show.

Learn More About Ginny Vanderslice >>>
Buy Ginny’s Book – Leadership Development and Succession >>>

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 260 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $13 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/

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Unlocking Leadership Potential and Team Focus with Coach Mike Gottfried

In this episode of the Nuts and Bolts of Leadership podcast, Billy Duren, Hali Gibson, and Coach Mike Gottfried discuss Mike’s experience as an NCAA player, Head Football Coach, and founder of Team Focus, an organization created to walk with and lead young men without fathers. Coach Mike explains his mentoring process and how he uses the same approach to teaching and coaching in teaching life and leadership skills. He also shares how he found father figures to help guide him when his own father passed away at a young age. Lastly, they talk about the traps and dangers of falling into a victim mentality. This episode is full of fantastic gridiron playing and coaching stories and the most common examples of winners on the field, in the boardroom, and life. Enjoy the show!


Learn More About Team Focus >>>

 

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 260 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $13 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/

The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership: Strength-Based Leadership with David Doxtad

On this episode, Billy speaks with David Doxtad President of ISG about what it means to lean into strength based leadership. David shares insights on how to bridge the generational leadership gap and the importance of challenging yourself in your leadership journey.

David introduces us to the importance of stretch assignments and how they can help emerging and developing leaders discover their strengths and unlock their full potential. Learn how to find the “why” for your clients and your team, the importance of being a team player, and seeking ways to broaden your leadership and work experiences. Join us for another terrific episode with more leadership nuggets than we can count, enjoy the show!

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 260 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $13 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/