One Pour Problems

Sal is joined by Bill Hazard, President of Novo Partners, for a conversation about the power of steady, disciplined improvement and how it can transform a manufacturer into a true growth engine. Bill shares his path from engineer to business builder, and why operations—and the challenge of making things better week after week—became the through‑line of his career. He reflects on buying Novo in 2014 and seeing not just a stable shop but the potential for exponential growth, driven by small, relentless improvements that don’t look exciting but compound over time. Sal and Bill discuss how that mindset helped revenues triple in five years and grow fivefold in ten, supported by smart expansions, a strategic acquisition that doubled sales, and a culture that encourages “productive struggle” and pairs young talent with seasoned leaders. Bill also previews the launch of Novo Lean Solutions and why creating repeatable systems matters so much for manufacturers, offering a reminder that growth comes from structure, not heroics.

Sal is joined by Michael Auletta, SVP of Sales, Marketing & Services at Bauer Inc., for a conversation about building relationships that go beyond borders. Michael shares his unconventional path from broadcast journalism at ESPN to joining his family’s exporting business, reflecting on the early challenges that tested his resolve and how his communication background became a powerful asset in global sales. He and Sal explore why relationships are the true currency of business—from leading teams with empathy and accountability to cultivating trust with international partners—and how living abroad in Singapore shaped Michael’s approach to cross-cultural communication and growth. They also discuss leading intentionally while traveling 70% of the time, developing talent as the company expands, and what set Bauer apart in earning U.S. Small Business National Exporter of the Year. This episode is a reminder that lasting global success is built not just on products, but on people.

Ron Angelo, President and CEO of CCAT and leader in applied technology and workforce training. He talks about staying agile over rigid plans. He describes blending PhD research with hands-on technicians. He reflects on mindfulness shaping leadership and how learning from younger generations fuels innovation.

Join Ed Gilchrest, President of Gyre9 with a background in electrical engineering, and Frank von Holzhausen, Chief Design Officer at Gyre9 and experienced industrial designer, as they delve into the delicate dance of courage and caution in entrepreneurship. They share insights from their journeys, discussing the importance of market research versus intuition, when to take bold risks, and the realities of running a business amid uncertainty. Packed with practical advice for entrepreneurs, their conversation challenges conventions and emphasizes the need for resilience in innovation.

Sal is joined by Mario D’Aquila, Chief Operating Officer of Assisted Living Home Care Services, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, communication, and the evolution of a family business built on compassion and purpose. Mario shares his journey helping grow a small Meriden-based operation into one of Connecticut’s leading home care providers, now serving thousands across three major locations with more than 700 caregivers. He opens up about aligning employees with a company’s mission and values, creating true “buy-in,” and meeting people’s deeper needs for connection, growth, and contribution. Sal and Mario discuss how tools like the DiSC assessment and Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) enhance communication, ensure the right people are in the right roles, and use data to drive accountability and performance. Mario also reflects on leading within a multi-generational family business and how a people-first culture drives long-term success.

Sal is joined by Drew DiSilvestro, President of AmeriTech Contracting, for a high-impact conversation on persistence, leadership, and scaling with intention. Drawing from his military background, Drew unpacks how trust, accountability, and a strong team dynamic are essential to execution. Sal and Drew explore the shift from being mentored to mentoring others, navigating the complexities of government contracts, and why patience and mindset matter as much as talent. For leaders building teams and chasing growth, this episode is a powerful reminder that resilience, clarity, and culture are key to long-term success.

Sal is joined by Cathy Awwad, President & CEO of the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board (NRWIB), to explore what it takes to build a future-ready workforce across 41 diverse communities. From addressing critical skills gaps in sectors like IT, manufacturing, and healthcare to partnering with local businesses to align training with real-world demands, Cathy shares how NRWIB goes beyond job placement to support long-term career growth. They dive into the importance of soft skills, leadership development, and creating career pathways, even in industries without clear ladders, while also tackling mindset shifts that help individuals grow into meaningful roles. With personal stories, practical strategies, and a few fun moments along the way, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone working to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity.

Sal is joined by Brent Robertson, Founder of Be Generative, for a powerful conversation on reimagining leadership in today’s rapidly evolving workplace. They explore the hidden costs of traditional leadership narratives, the trap of indispensability, and how these mindsets can limit team potential. Brent introduces the concept of Generative Listening—an approach that moves beyond active listening to spark new conversations and breakthroughs—and shares how leaders can tap into community intelligence to do more with less. From creating meaningful feedback loops to lessons learned on a bourbon tour in Louisville, Brent blends personal insight with practical tools to help leaders cultivate workplaces where people and ideas can thrive. Packed with fresh perspectives and actionable takeaways, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to lead with more purpose, presence, and impact.

Ramsey Goodrich, managing partner who advises family and founder-led businesses, shares a people-first approach to M&A. He contrasts Wall Street incentives with long-term family deals. Topics include spotting toxic owners, preparing years ahead, protecting employees and culture over maximum price, and practical leadership and succession planning tips.

Sal is joined by Douglas Johnson, President at Marion Manufacturing Company, Inc., to unpack what it really takes to transition a company to a younger, energized workforce. From overcoming technology gaps and generational communication challenges to rethinking hiring around attitude and curiosity instead of just skills, our guest shares lessons learned through COVID and beyond. We dive into how coaching strengthened leadership and family dynamics, why letting younger employees make mistakes helps them grow, and how to build a culture where people want to stay, start families, and thrive. Packed with practical takeaways on retention, culture, and preparing the next generation to lead, this conversation is a must-listen for any business navigating workforce shifts.