EP #128: Why Soft Skills Still Matter in Concrete

What’s the one skill that separates talkers from true leaders in the concrete industry?


Seth Tandett sits down with James Baty, Executive Director of the Concrete Foundations Association, to talk about why communication, listening, and follow-up might be more important than specs and slump tests for your career. They cover how to navigate alpha-heavy meetings, what to say (or not say) in a room full of experts, and how asking the right question might make you the smartest person in the room. If you want to grow in this industry without being that guy, don’t skip this one. 

What You'll Learn 

• What makes a great networker in the concrete industry? 
• How do you break into a tight-knit group at a networking event? 
• Why listening might be the most underrated leadership skill. 
• How to navigate meetings full of loud voices and strong egos. 
• What kind of follow-up makes you memorable. 
• How to bring value back to your company after an event. 

Chapters 

• 00:00 Intro: Concrete Chemistry… of People 
• 02:35 The Art of “Making Friends” in Construction 
• 05:10 Why Listening Comes Before Leading 
• 08:55 Type 1L Cement: A Lesson in Communication 
• 10:30 How to Spot Real Networking Opportunities 
• 13:15 What to Do in a Room Full of Strangers 
• 17:00 Why Asking Questions is a Power Move 
• 22:00 Follow-Up That Builds Real Relationships 
• 24:45 Final Advice from James 

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Guest: James Baty, Concrete Foundations Association 
Guest Website: https://cfawalls.org

Producer: Jodi Tandett 

Music by: Mike Dunton (Instagram: @Mike_Dunton) 

Stay Connected & Watch More! 

Host: Seth Tandett 
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast
Website: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com

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