What if your childhood fascination turned into a lifelong career that shapes the future of energy? Join us on the Blue Collar Business Podcast as we sit down with RJ Burr, president of Panex, to uncover his extraordinary journey in the oil and gas industry. From his family's generational legacy to the pivotal moment his company was acquired by Marathon Oil, RJ's story is a compelling mix of passion, resilience, and strategic insight. Discover how RJ and his brother's division of business responsibilities paved the way for their remarkable success, and understand the vital role oil and gas play in our everyday lives.

You'll also get a nuanced understanding of the oil and gas sector's evolution, especially in terms of reducing CO2 emissions over the past decade. RJ and I challenge common misconceptions about renewable energy and share thought-provoking insights from Nigel Farage at CPAC on managing abundance versus controlling scarcity. We then shift gears to explore essential strategies for building a successful blue-collar business—emphasizing the importance of mastering a trade, delivering exceptional customer service, and maintaining unwavering integrity.

In our deep dive into the world of oil investments, RJ provides invaluable advice on the speculative nature of the industry, the tax benefits involved, and the technical challenges of drilling operations. Learn about specific investment strategies that have led to substantial returns, the operational intricacies of drilling wells, and the promising future of blue-collar industries. Finally, we reflect on the profound significance of love, legacy, and the societal implications of current generational attitudes. This episode is rich with personal anecdotes, expert advice, and timeless business wisdom that you won't want to miss!

How do you maintain a thriving business and a happy family life when your spouse is also your business partner? On this special episode of the Blue Collar Business Podcast, I sit down with my incredible wife, Sara Kirby, the CFO of Sy-Con, to discuss the trials and triumphs of running our construction company together. From the initial decision to break away from traditional work environments to balancing the demands of a growing business and a young family, Sara and I share our personal journey and the invaluable lessons we've learned along the way.

One of the cornerstones of our conversation is the evolving role of women in the construction industry. Sara recounts her transition from taking over administrative tasks to becoming the backbone of our business operations, all while raising our children. We delve into the crucial role that women play both on-site and behind the scenes, and how their contributions are shaping the future of the industry. We also share practical tips for separating business from personal life, including the importance of dedicated "business conversations" to keep our relationship and our company healthy.

The episode wraps up with a deep dive into the transformative journey of building and managing a business together. We discuss the importance of maintaining integrity and morals, the challenges of adapting to various roles, and the rewards of continuous personal and professional growth. From strategic investments in equipment to improving communication and implementing effective systems, Sara and I shed light on the critical decisions that have shaped our company's success. Join us for an honest, heartwarming look at the delicate balance of work and family life in the blue-collar world.

Ever wondered how technological advancements are revolutionizing civil engineering and project management? Join us on the Blue Collar Business Podcast as we host Daniel Ellis, the Senior Vice President of the Civil Division at Crafton Tull. With decades of experience and a wealth of knowledge, Daniel offers an in-depth look at managing large-scale civil development projects, especially in the Pinnacle area of Rogers, Arkansas. Learn from his firsthand experiences about the importance of understanding municipal codes, constructability, and the delicate balance between client expectations and practical execution.

In this episode, you'll gain invaluable insights into the real-world challenges of large-scale construction projects, focusing on the Mercy Hospital bed tower expansion. Discover the critical importance of on-site presence and constant coordination, particularly in design-build scenarios where plans can change on the fly. Daniel shares personal anecdotes and mentorship advice that illustrate the importance of timely decision-making and collaborative efforts, highlighting how fieldwork plays an indispensable role in avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring project success.

But that's not all. Daniel also walks us through the evolution of survey crew efficiency, from the era of three-man crews and hand calculations to the cutting-edge use of robotic total stations and drones. Understand how these technological advancements have drastically improved efficiency and safety in the field. We also delve into the transition from 2D to 3D design in civil projects and the lessons learned from major projects, emphasizing the significance of teamwork, effective communication, and learning from past mistakes. Whether you're an industry veteran or just starting out, this episode is packed with expert advice and practical tips to help you excel in the blue-collar business world.