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.
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 brings 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 IHeart Radio. 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 350 dedicated employee owners, TFI maintains over $16 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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