Keepin' The Lights On

Епизоде

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  Building the Electrical Workforce One Student at a Time w LaNa Al-Amin and Tom Alexander 16.09.2026 41мин

  In this episode I speak with LaNa Al-Amin and Tom Alexander about how the IEC Foundation is helping grow a well-trained electrical workforce. We discuss misconceptions about apprenticeships, the barriers that can keep students from completing their education, and why strong training and company culture matter. LaNa and Tom explain how scholarships, tools, mentoring, safety and job-readiness programs, early career exposure, and industry partnerships support students and IEC chapters.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.YouTube version of the episode: https://youtu.be/klwgj3ZlQToTo learn more about the IEC Foundation: https://www.iec-foundation.org/IEC Foundation Overview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3x2cAIfUpVkIEC Foundation Scholarship Programs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghWXeAmt1kI&t=26sIEC Foundation Equipment & Training Grant Program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDBlvMozNrU&t=12sIEC Foundation Disaster Relief Program: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CMlxkLRglSA&t=4sTo reach LaNa Al-Amin or Tom Alexander and to learn about the IECF Board: https://www.iec-foundation.org/foundation-board
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  Why Specialty Systems Need the Right Design Early 26.08.2026 38мин

  n this episode I speak with Jon Irvine about two specialty systems that can save plant operators from bigger problems: heat trace and liquid leak detection. John explains why these systems are often needed late in a project, how poor planning or the wrong product can create freeze-ups, nuisance alarms, or missed leaks, and why contractors need technical support before installation starts. We also talk about smarter design, better communication to building management systems, and how data centers are changing the conversation around leak detection.Please like and subscribe on your favorite platform.To reach Jon Irvine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-irvine-02a34424/ Learn more about Valin: https://www.valin.com/ To see products supported/sold by Valin: https://valinonline.com/ Valin’s Heat Trace products page: https://valinonline.com/catalog/process-heatYouTube: https://youtu.be/yfPwirz9zfA
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  Rethinking Data Center Builds with Rob Conrad 12.08.2026 39мин

  In this episode, Rob Conrad, Director of Pricing and Channel Marketing at Legrand North America, shares insights on the challenges and innovations in data center development, including size, complexity, and sustainability. Discover how industry trends are shaping the future of data infrastructure and what manufacturers and contractors are doing to keep pace.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To reach Rob Conrad on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-conrad-9234352/Learn more about Legrand (episode and show sponsor – thank you) and they’re work with Data Centers: https://www.legrand.us/markets/data-center?utm_source=show_notes&utm_medium=show_link&utm_campaign=2026-2027_sponsorship&utm_content=rob_conradSADO in St Louis: https://www.sado-stl.com/YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/z7pR8AAqWQc
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  EC Construction Tech Workflows w Melissa Dixon 22.07.2026 31мин

  Unlock the secret to transforming the construction industry—where communication silos and outdated workflows are holding everyone back. Melissa Dixon, shares her grounded insights on how digital workflows are reshaping project efficiency from the field to the office—and why adapting now matters more than ever. Construction projects often still rely on scribbles, phone calls, and guesswork, which creates delays, rework, and frustration.Melissa explains why digitization has been slow to catch on, and what’s finally helping teams move toward smarter, more connected ways of working. From field-to-office collaboration to AI-assisted invoice matching and site mapping, she breaks down the practical tools that are making a difference. You’ll discover:How systems thinking is changing the way construction teams approach the full project lifecycleWhy digital tools need to fit existing workflows to actually get adoptedHow better content, metadata, and data quality strengthen AI and connected workflowsReal examples of AI helping with search, matching, and documentationWhy construction leaders need both top-down support and field-level buy-in to drive changeMelissa also shares her perspective on BIM, model-based procurement, labor data, pre-construction planning, and the importance of balancing detailed data with simplicity for the people using it every day. If you work in construction, project management, or any role touched by workflow efficiency, this conversation offers a clear, practical look at how digital transformation is unfolding in the real world. It’s not about hype — it’s about making work easier, faster, and more accurate across the entire supply chain.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.Learn more about Trimble: https://www.trimble.com/en/industries/constructionGino’s On the Point: https://ginosrestaurants.co/gino-at-the-point/YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/6fPk92sTLksThank you to this episode’s sponsor: Panduit
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  Economics and the Electrical Supply Chain w Chris Sokoll 08.07.2026 35мин

  In this episode, guest Chris Sokoll, president of DISC Corp, a leading provider of electrical wholesale industry economic forecasting discusses the critical role of electrical distribution in the US economy.He also covers the importance of data integrity, and future trends like clean energy and infrastructure upgrades.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.To reach Chris Sokoll on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiansokoll/ Learn more about DISC Corp: https://disccorp.com El Tiempo Cantina: https://eltiempocantina.com/ Ninfa’s: https://ninfas.com/ Truth BBQ Houston: https://truthbbq.com/
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  Going The Middle Mile w Walt Donovan 24.06.2026 52мин

  Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.In this episode, Walt Donovan, VP of Strategic Partnerships at DYCOM Industries, explains the concept of the middle mile in data infrastructure, its challenges, and future prospects. Discover how this critical component impacts data flow across the country and what the industry is doing to overcome current obstacles. Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To reach Walt Donovan on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/walt-donovan-36a9063/DYCOM Industries: https://dycomind.com/The Sicilian Butcher: https://thesicilianbutcher.com/YouTube: https://youtu.be/z6H8MwCkGig
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  Industrial Business Insights with Anne Vranicic, Valin Corporation President 10.06.2026 34мин

  Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.We talk about how retiring talent, supply chain chaos, and digital transformation create opportunities for innovation. We also discuss strategies to adapt workforce gaps, optimize automation, and maintain customer service without sacrificing profitability.Take a listen on your favorite podcast player or right here on YouTube.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To reach Anne Vranicic on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/annevranicic/Learn more about Valin: https://www.valin.com/YouTube: https://youtu.be/Lh-TK_U7zOUTo learn more about the sponsor, nVent, please visit here: https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/nvent-group/c/sup-nvent-group?utm_source=sponsor link&utm_medium=sponsor_link&utm_campaign=keepin-the-lights-on-2026&utm_content=anne v
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  Industrial Automation Trends w Brian Crawford 27.05.2026 30мин

  Explore the world of industrial automation with Brian Crawford on "Keepin' The Lights On." Discover insights into manpower challenges and innovative solutions. Tune in to learn how industries are evolving.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To reach Brian Crawford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-crawford-92b92018/Learn more about Shingle And Gibb: https://www.shingle.com/Franklinville Inn: https://www.thefranklinvilleinn.com/Photos of Franklinville Inn from Franklinville.com To see the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VqtKX4OMfYU
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  The Future of Independent Electrical Reps with Jim Johnson, NEMRA CEO 13.05.2026 33мин

  Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.We explore the vital role of manufacturer reps in the electrical industry, their evolving responsibilities, and future trends including technology, demand generation, and strategic planning with Jim Johnson, CEO of NEMRA.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: [email protected] reach Jim Johnson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcjohnson/Learn more about NEMRA: https://www.nemra.org/Columbia Club: https://columbia-club.org/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/vlmz5dTPHTM
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  Mastering the 8-Day Renovation with the Renovation Hunters Showrunners 29.04.2026 36мин

  In this episode Todd speaks with Hal Shaffer and Chris Filardi, creators of the inspiring show, Renovation Hunters. The show focuses on outdoor family property renovations, community impact, and the importance of relationships and teamwork in complex projects.I’m creating a show newsletter to help me communicate with you the listener/viewer. Please click on the link to sign up for the newsletter: https://www.graybar.com/podcastThank you for listening and please take a moment to rate, and review our show on your favorite app.Renovation Hunters: https://www.renovationhunters.com/Submit a cabin for possible renovation: https://www.outdoorchannel.com/content/renovationhunters/459762Find Renovation Hunter network: https://app.myoutdoortv.com/series/renovationhuntersHal Shaffer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hal-shaffer-70b28457/Chris Filardi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherfilardi/YouTube: https://youtu.be/rz3FDvFBJJEB-Roll Photos and Video are from Renovationhunters.com 2026  
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  How Foremen Shape a Culture of Learning Ep073 w Heath Blackburn 15.04.2026 23мин

  Heath Blackburn from Wheeler Electric reveals how foremen are pivotal in transforming company culture. By engaging foremen in the Foreman Academy, they fostered a culture of continuous learning and collaboration, proving that foremen are key to driving meaningful change and growth.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give your insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe here on Graybar.com.To reach Heath Blackburn on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/heath-blackburn-23804a213/Learn more about Wheeler Electric: https://www.wheelerelectric.com/7N Ranch Resort: https://www.7nranch.com/farmhouse-table-restaurantYouTube: https://youtu.be/Hgf36-a9vv0
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  Better GC and EC Relationships with Max Gallaway 25.03.2026 18мин

  In this episode, Max Galloway, VP of Max Electric Inc., shares insights on building strong relationships between electrical contractors and general contractors, navigating complex contracts, and improving collaboration in the construction industry.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give your insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe here on Graybar.com.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To reach Max on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/max-gallaway-49a78438/Learn more about Max Electric: https://maxelectric-kc.com/YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/QjB4tVmHkNQ
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  Is Your Company Culture Nice or KIND? With Andie Herbert and Rachel Gass 11.03.2026 33мин

  In this conversation, Todd Reed engages with Andy Herbert and Rachel Gass from Be Kind Lyfe Consulting to explore the significance of company culture, particularly the distinction between being 'nice' and 'kind.' They discuss how a positive culture can impact business performance, employee engagement, and innovation.The K.I.N.D framework is introduced as a guide for fostering a supportive workplace environment. They emphasize the importance of self-awareness in leadership, the need for continuous improvement, and practical steps for organizations to enhance their culture. Real-world examples illustrate the transformative power of kindness in the workplace. Thank you for listening/watching.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give your insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe here on Graybar dot com:  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#podcastsubscribe?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=keepin-the-lights-on-2026&utm_content=kindvsnice.Learn more about Be Kind Lyfe: https://bkndlyfe.squarespace.com/View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/55QL0hUTpRg
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  AI, Innovation, and Culture in Construction with Leah Mack, Allison Smith 25.02.2026 24мин

  In this episode I speak with Leah Mack, a project manager at Allison Smith, about the implementation of AI in the construction industry. We discuss the challenges and successes Leah has experienced while integrating AI into her daily work, the role of the Innovation Institute in her journey, and the importance of company culture in fostering innovation. Leah shares insights on developing AI training for her company, best practices for using AI, and recommendations for contractors looking to adopt AI technologies.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give your insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe here on Graybar.com. Leah is a project manager at Allison-Smith Company.  She works in the Charleston, SC office and has been there for 8 years.  Most of her work in project management has been for hyperscale data center construction, both greenfield and renovation work.  Prior to that, she was in consulting engineering for 6 years and is currently 1 of only 2 licensed PEs in South Carolina with the NCQLP lighting certification.  She is a member of the Franklin Cohort of the NECA Innovation Institute, in addition to serving on the Women In NECA task force.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.Learn more about Allison-Smith: https://allisonsmith.com/Momo’s in the Park: https://momocharleston.com/Electri International Report on AI Implementation Roadmap: AI Implementation Roadmap for EC – Video introduction: https://vimeo.com/1097929862?fl=pl&fe=sh  Research Report: https://www.electri.org/product/artificial-intelligence-implementation-roadmap-for-electrical-contractors/YouTube Link: https://youtu.be/75F3I1kPVU0
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  Navigating the Confluence of Construction and Tech with Kassy Slaughter 11.02.2026 44мин

  In this episode, Todd Reed speaks with Kassy Slaughter about the current state of the construction industry, focusing on labor shortages, the impact of technology, and the importance of company culture. They discuss the challenges faced by the industry, including misconceptions about construction careers, the need for a cultural shift, and the role of data and AI in improving workforce engagement. Kassy emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive work environment and the need for actionable steps to attract and retain talent in the construction sector. Kassy shares about one of her favorite restaurants, Iron Bay in Marquette, MI and talks about her favorite pastime, kayaking. Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review the show on your favorite app.Here’s where I ask a huge favor from you, I’m creating a newsletter as a way for you to share your thoughts on the episodes, share guest ideas and for me to give you insight into future episodes, and of course share great restaurants with you, please subscribe at  https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe.Iron Bay Restaurant in Marquette: https://ironbaymqt.com/ To reach Kassy Slaughter on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kassy-slaughter-morris-59164020/Learn more about Procore: https://www.procore.com/ On YouTube: https://youtu.be/KJT9ftw3K8I
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  Prefab Works! With Brian Yetter, Electrical Contractor 28.01.2026 29мин

  In this episode, I speak with Brian Yetter, a prefabrication manager, about the growing importance of prefabrication in the construction industry. We discuss the challenges and successes of implementing prefab, the significance of communication and collaboration among teams, and how technology is leveraged to improve processes. Brian shares insights on building a culture of innovation and the importance of motivating the next generation of workers in the industry.Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app. REQUEST FROM TODD, YOUR HOST: This is a one-way medium. I share this interview with you but I don’t have an easy way for you to share your thoughts and ideas about the show. I’m announcing a my new Keepin’ The Lights On newsletter. I will summarize episodes, provide insight into future episodes, and of course share a new restaurant idea. Click the Subscribe button and let’s start the conversation. https://www.graybar.com/podcast#subscribe?utm_source=Podcast&utm_medium=ShowNotes&utm_campaign=2026+Podcast&utm_id=PodcastPanduit&utm_content=068+Brian+YetterTo reach Brian Yetter on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-yetter-a6b1802b4/Learn more about Hatzel and Buehler Prefabrication: https://www.hatzelandbuehler.com/prefabrication/YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/2RsDFMx64hoTo get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: [email protected]
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  Track Jobsite Time More Effectively with Shawn Ryan and BuildTime 14.01.2026 29мин

  Be a Keepin’ The Lights On Insider. Here’s a chance for me to hear what is important to you so I can bring the best content to this show. In addition, I’ll update you on guests, new shows, and of course fun restaurants from around the world. Click here to sign up: https://www.graybar.com/podcast#podcastsubscribe?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=keepin-the-lights-on-2026&utm_content=shawn_ryan  In this episode of Keeping the Lights On, I speak with Shawn Ryan, CEO of BuildTime, to discuss the complexities of time tracking in the construction industry. They explore the challenges contractors face, particularly regarding union rules and compliance, and how traditional methods like spreadsheets are inadequate for modern needs.Shawn shares insights into BuildTime's innovative solutions designed to simplify time tracking and ensure compliance, emphasizing the importance of user experience and the cultural shift required for technology adoption in the field. The conversation highlights the motivation behind their work and the impact of technology on improving efficiency and accountability in construction. Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and remember to become an podcast Insider by clicking on the link to join our newsletter group: https://www.graybar.com/podcast#podcastsubscribe?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show_notes&utm_campaign=keepin-the-lights-on-2026&utm_content=shawn_ryanLearn more about BuildTime: https://buildtime.us/To reach Shawn Ryan on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawn-ryan/BuildTime on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildtime/Taqueria del Sol: http://www.taqueriadelsol.com/index.htmlYouTube version: https://youtu.be/TVoKOSz8__4
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  Revolutionizing Data Center Cooling with Chatsworth Sponsor Highlight 02 09.12.2025 5мин

  In this conversation, Robb Jones, Area Vice President of Sales at Chatsworth Products (CPI), discusses the critical need for advanced cooling solutions in data centers driven by the convergence of AI and high-performance computing (HPC). He highlights CPI's innovative liquid cooling technologies, which are essential for managing the increasing heat output from modern GPUs. The discussion also covers the types of organizations adopting CPI's solutions and how CPI is future-proofing infrastructure to accommodate evolving technology demands.Thank you to Chatsworth Products/CPI for their sponsorship of the podcast. Their expertise and support helps us to the keep the lights on here at the podcast. Please check out their selection of products on Graybar’s website or reach out to your local Graybar representative to learn how CPI can help keep your data center efficient and cool.https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/chatsworth/c/sup-chatsworth-group?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=Sponsor-Highlight-2025-ChatsworthYouTube link: https://youtu.be/GDTl_Mux9SQ 
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  Keep AI Running w Structured Cabling Sponsor Highlight with Panduit 02.12.2025 7мин

  In this sponsor highlight episode, Bob Wagner from Panduit discusses the company's role in AI data centers, focusing on power requirements, the importance of structured cabling, and maximizing space within data centers. He highlights the increasing power demands of AI systems and the innovative solutions Panduit offers to address these challenges, including new power distribution units and structured cabling systems that enhance management and scalability.YouTube link: https://youtu.be/ml7sCsyG4cU
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  Be Yourself Sooner with David Charles 19.11.2025 38мин

  (00:00:00) Intro to David Charles (00:03:01) Overcoming Shyness and Building Connections (00:05:52) Navigating Career Changes and Discovering Passions (00:08:47) The Importance of Networking and Mentorship (00:12:05) Embracing Authenticity and Personal Growth (00:14:51) Content Creation and Professional Development (00:18:01) Finding Motivation and Purpose in the AEC Industry In this episode I interview David Charles, a dynamic figure in the St Louis area architecture and design industry.David shares his journey of overcoming shyness, building connections, and navigating career changes. He emphasizes the importance of networking, mentorship, and authenticity in personal and professional growth.David also discusses his passion for content creation and how it has expanded his professional network. The conversation concludes with insights on finding motivation and purpose in work, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves and pursue their passions. Thank you for listening and please take a moment to subscribe, rate, and review our show on your favorite app.To get a hold of us here at Keepin’ The Lights On, please email: [email protected]  YouTube Version: https://youtu.be/S5kWZCk_meA Thank you to our sponsor, CPI Chatsworth:  https://www.graybar.com/manufacturers/chatsworth/c/sup-chatsworth-group?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=show-notes&utm_campaign=ep-64-David-CharlesTo reach David Charles on LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesdc/Specified Growth Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/specified-growth-podcast_s2-ep-188-building-brilliance-through-activity-7373709881658236930-zhNr?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAIctz4B7qE21pQp5ZQvYpp8N7TRtQEeU2cDavid Charles post on personal development: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/charlesdc_personaldevelopment-aec-constructionmotivation-activity-7365786635835232258-kQJF/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAIctz4B7qE21pQp5ZQvYpp8N7TRtQEeU2cDavid Charles’ LinkedIn Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesdc/recent-activity/newsletter/Olivette Diner: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g44881-d441329-Reviews-Olivette_Diner-Saint_Louis_Missouri.html