Episode 40
Rethinking Legacy Leadership in LBM: A Conversation with Bryan Mellick of Ward Lumber
What happens when a legacy company chooses evolution over tradition? In the latest episode of Hire Smarter with Tony Misura, we tackle one of the toughest questions facing LBM leaders today: how do you modernize leadership in a multi-generational company without losing what made you successful in the first place?
Episode 39
Episode 39: Navigating 2025’s Housing Market
Tony Misura sits down with Chris Beard, Building Products Research Director at John Burns Research and Consulting, for a comprehensive look at what’s really happening in housing and building materials markets heading into 2026.
Episode 38
Unlock the Power of Video to Attract Top Talent and Customers
In this episode, Tony sits down with Rory O’Neill of Rory Thomas Productions, a longtime friend and expert in video storytelling. They discuss the real value of video in talent and customer attraction, the common pitfalls companies face when creating content, and how to capture the genuine, compelling stories that resonate with both customers and candidates.
Episode 37
John Burns from John Burns Research & Consultants
Hire Smarter Podcast: Land Banking, Risk Mitigation, and Government Policies Shaping the Housing Market Join industry expert John Burns as he explores the evolving landscape of the housing market. In this episode, John breaks down the significance of land banking, risk mitigation strategies for builders, and the lasting effects of government policies like Dodd-Frank. Tune in for valuable insights on how these factors are shaping the future of homebuilding and real estate. Listen now and stay ahead of the curve in today’s dynamic housing market.
Episode 36
Revolutionizing the Wood Products Industry with Tamarack
In the latest episode of Hire Smarter, Tony Misura talks with Joe Page, founder and CEO of Tamarack Software, about his innovative approach to modernizing the wood products industry. Tamarack is building an integrated operating system for sawmills to address the complex, fragmented nature of the industry.
Episode 35
Michael Collins, Managing Director at Equinova
In the latest episode of Hire Smarter™, Michael Collins shares insights into his journey in the building products industry and investment banking, emphasizing a strategic focus on large, fragmented markets ripe for acquisition. He highlights the significance of sustainable EBITDA in business valuations, urging listeners to steer clear of one-time or non-recurring items that could skew buyer perceptions.
Episode 34
Cody Nuernberg
Cody Nuernberg, President of BLD Connection, outlines the advantages of joining the association. He emphasizes the benefits of networking, educational opportunities, and the diverse program services provided. Cody also highlights the association’s role in legislative advocacy, addressing current issues like credit card fees and potential changes to crane regulations.
Episode 33
Ted Nafzger and Chase Hackner, Paradigm
In the latest episode of “Hire Smarter,” we explore how LBM industry leaders can transform their hiring practices and career decisions by leveraging innovative technology to improve estimating processes. The episode highlights the challenges LBM dealers face with estimating and how the groundbreaking Paradigm technology addresses these issues.