Kait Burds joins the Dirt Bags Podcast to talk about what actually works in the trades—and what doesn’t. A 2024 CAT Women’s Operator Skills Challenge Champion, Kait’s built her name in the dirt and snow while helping push the industry forward. In this episode, she breaks down why nonstop grinding can hold you back, how to level up smarter, and what it takes to stand out in a blue-collar world. Real experience. Real perspective.
Apr 10, 2026•1 hr 32 min•Season 1Ep. 120
This week, we're excited to welcome Cole Schambari to the Dirt Bags Studio! A huge thanks to one of our great sponsors, Charlie Huff, for connecting us with Cole—the owner of WEBS Excavating Inc., based in Waukegan, Illinois. Tune in for a long, in-depth, and awesome conversation! Cole's Email: cole@websexcavatinginc.com Book a free strategy call with Phaser Marketing: https://calendly.com/d/cm59-rf4-hgq/investing-in-a-new-construction-website?month=2025-05 Huge Thanks to our sponsors: Charlie H...
Nov 21, 2025•1 hr 55 min•Season 1Ep. 107
In this episode of The Dirt Bags Podcast, Luke Eggebraaten welcomes Jaden Robison, the visionary founder behind Blue Collar Future, a brand and movement dedicated to empowering the next generation of skilled workers. If you’re in construction, the dirt world, or simply believe in the value of hard work and dedication, this episode will fire you up. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to see the future of blue collar through a brand-new lens. Jaden's IG - @jadenrrobison Linkedin - https://www.link...
Nov 07, 2025•1 hr 35 min•Season 1Ep. 106
In this episode of The Dirt Bags Podcast, we're in studio with Josh Montanye, Chief Business Officer at Williams Companies and Executive Vice President at Williams Plumbing / Williams Civil Construction. Josh brings a wealth of experience in overseeing planning, procurement, performance, and financing for large commercial construction projects. With a focus on municipal and public clients, he’s managed budgets ranging from $1M to $10M. Josh also holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administra...
Oct 24, 2025•2 hr 6 min•Season 1Ep. 105
In this episode of the Dirt Bags Podcast, we welcome Stone Hughes, founder of Michigan's God's Country Land Services, for a gritty dive into sustainable land management. Discover how Stone's family-run crew uses advanced forestry mulching to clear thick brush and invasive species on-site—without soil disruption, burning, or hauling—turning overgrown properties into prime, nature-friendly spaces. Stone's Website: https://godscountrylandservices.com/ Book a free strategy call with Phaser Marketing...
Oct 10, 2025•1 hr 43 min•Season 1Ep. 104
Join host Luke Eggebraaten and guest host James Stiksma (@canadianseptic), owner of Canadian Septic and a proud Phaser client, for an epic episode of the Dirt Bags Podcast ! This week, we dig deep with Scott Lidster (@australian_earth_training), the mastermind behind Australian Earth Training . From mastering scraper dumps to revolutionizing operator training worldwide, Scott shares his journey, insights, and the grit it takes to succeed in the heavy equipment industry. Tune in for a no-nonsense...
Sep 26, 2025•1 hr 46 min•Season 1Ep. 103
This week, we welcome Arnaud Hild, Co-Owner of NPA Specialty Equipment, a badass company crushing it in the specialty equipment game (check them out at npaspecialtyequipment.com ). Arnaud, alongside his business partners Nico and Pierre, is bringing serious value to the dirt world, and as a happy client of Phaser Marketing, he’s got the digital presence to prove it! Luke and Arnaud will dig deep into what makes NPA Specialty Equipment stand out, from their hands-on approach to their game-changin...
Sep 12, 2025•1 hr 43 min•Season 1Ep. 102
In this episode of the Dirt Bags Podcast , we're featuring Zach Taylor, the founder of Milania Excavating. With over a decade of expertise in site work and project management, Zach brings a wealth of knowledge to the world of excavation. Tune in as he shares insights into his journey! IG -@_taylorthings @milania_corp Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/zach-taylor-55391533 Book a free strategy call with Phaser Marketing: https://calendly.com/d/cm59-rf4-hgq/investing-in-a-new-construction-webs...
Sep 05, 2025•1 hr 34 min•Season 1Ep. 101
It’s the big 100th episode milestone of The Dirt Bags Podcast, and we're stoked to bring back the OG co-host, Luke Payne, for this one! We’re diving deep into this one. Cheers to 100 episodes! And 100+ more. Luke Payne IG - @westernex1 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-payne-86752119a/ Book a free strategy call with Phaser Marketing: https://calendly.com/d/cm59-rf4-hgq/investing-in-a-new-construction-website?month=2025-05 Huge Thanks to our sponsors: Charlie Huff - Need a certificate o...
Aug 29, 2025•1 hr 37 min•Season 1Ep. 100
Join Luke Eggebraaten on the Dirt Bags Podcast for an unfiltered, high-energy conversation with Marvin Joles, a powerhouse in the asphalt industry. As an entrepreneur, investor, award-winning influencer, and national public speaker, Marvin brings a wealth of expertise as a NAPA Impact Conference Task Group Member and Pavement Magazine Advisory Board contributor. In this episode, Raw insights on entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership in the asphalt world, and so much more. Tune in for an ep...
Aug 15, 2025•1 hr 37 min•Season 1Ep. 99
In this episode, we sit down with Josh Newell from Northern Ireland — a long-time Dirt Bags listener who just launched his own excavation company. Josh is the owner of GreenRock Renewables and GreenRock Contracts, and he’s making big moves across the pond. Guest host Matt Study (@sapphireconstructionservices) joins us for this one. Guest Host: Matt StudyIG - @sapphireconstructionservices Guest: Josh Newell - Principal (owner) at GreenRock Renewables and GreenRock Contracts Super cool to see a Di...
Aug 01, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 98
In this episode of The Dirt Bags Podcast , host Luke Eggebraaten sits down with Matt Sockoch, co-owner of Payne Construction Services and Gateway Concrete Solutions. Matt shares why he chose to buy an existing concrete company rather than building one from the ground up. James Stiksma, owner of Canadian Septic and 2024 Dirt Bags Guest Host of the Year , also joins in to offer his perspective on the challenges and rewards of business ownership. Tune in for a candid conversation on entrepreneurshi...
Jul 18, 2025•1 hr 29 min•Season 1Ep. 97
Happy 4th of July! We're back with another awesome episode, and this one is packed with purpose. We're joined by Dervin Witmer as guest host, and we sit down with Drew Nickoli — a U.S. Army Veteran and now a Technical Specialist at Eljen Corporation. This episode means a lot — and if you’re a veteran looking for support, please check out saveawarrior.org . You’re not alone. Learn more about Eljen at eljen.com Drew's email: dnickoli@eljen.com Follow on IG: @digitexcavating @pumpthatseptic @eljenc...
Jul 04, 2025•1 hr 39 min•Season 1Ep. 96
This week, we're stoked to have James Doyle from Innovative Lawn & Landscape back on the show. If you've been following the podcast, you know James is one of the most forward-thinking guys in the industry, always pushing boundaries and bringing fresh ideas to the table. James has also been working with Phaser Marketing since 2022! You can book a free strategy call with Phaser today using this link here: https://calendly.com/d/cm59-rf4-hgq/investing-in-a-new-construction-website Innovative La...
Jun 20, 2025•1 hr 20 min•Season 1Ep. 95
On this episode of The Dirt Bags Podcast , we're sitting down with Joe Uran — Co-Owner of Nordic Companies and just an all-around solid dude. Nordic’s been crushing it in the construction and excavation game, and they also happen to be a client of ours over at Phaser. We talk about the real side of running a business in the trades, what it takes to build something that lasts, and why staying scrappy still matters. If you're about growth, grit, and getting after it, this one’s for you. Link to Go...
Jun 06, 2025•1 hr 49 min•Season 1Ep. 94
In this episode, we are joined by Zach Miller , owner of Southern Property Services , to talk about growing a business from the ground up and scaling to 1M+ in revenue. Zach gets real about the grind, the lessons, and how to push past the roadblocks that come with massive growth in the trades. We dive into everything from building a rock-solid team to making sure your online presence is electric. IG:@southern_property_services@zach.miller.18 Shoutout to Zach for not only sharing his story but al...
May 23, 2025•1 hr 37 min•Season 1Ep. 93
In this episode, we sit down with Dane Cotten , the man behind DC Excavation —one of the hardest-working excavation companies out there. Dane shares his story, the grind behind his business, and how they’ve built something special in the industry. Plus, he gives a big shoutout to the team at Phaser for helping bring their online presence to life. Make sure you check out DC Excavation’s killer YouTube channel for more behind-the-scenes action and insights! Follow DC Excavation on IG : @dcexcavati...
May 09, 2025•1 hr 48 min•Season 1Ep. 92
In this episode of the Dirt Bags Podcast, we’re diving into the trenches with Josh Williams, the man behind Lakeland Septic Company, to talk about how he's building a powerhouse brand in the septic world. This conversation is packed with insights for dirt world pros and business-minded hustlers alike. Host: Luke Eggebraaten Guest Host: Dervin Witmer @digitexcavating / @pumpthatseptic Guest: Josh Williams, Owner of Lakeland Septic Company @lakelandsepticcompany Special guest host Dervin Witmer ju...
Apr 25, 2025•1 hr 19 min•Season 1Ep. 91
We're pumped to be joined by Micah Tysver , the man behind Crush Mode —and trust me, this one’s a heater. Whether you’re slinging dirt, running a business, or trying to be 1% better every day; this episode is for you. Tune in for real talk, big energy, and lessons you can apply—especially if you’re out there grinding in the blue-collar world or building something of your own. Hit play and get ready to tap into that Crush Mode mindset! Micah's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micah-tysver Re...
Apr 11, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Season 1Ep. 90
This week on The Dirt Bags Podcast , Luke sits down with Anthony Mann Jr., the owner of Anthony Group Hardscapes , Anthony Winter Services , and Hardscape Mastery . Anthony is a true entrepreneur, balancing multiple successful businesses and sharing his no-nonsense approach to getting things done. He talks about the grind, the hustle, and the lessons that have shaped his journey in the hardscaping industry. But what makes this episode even more special is Anthony’s personal story. Just days afte...
Mar 28, 2025•1 hr 27 min•Season 1Ep. 89
We're stoked to bring you another killer episode. This time, Luke is sitting down with Dakota Hock—he’s the brains behind D.M. Hock Enterprises and Hydratec Industries, straight outta Litchfield, CT. We’re digging into the nitty-gritty of spotting those golden business opportunities and knowing when to jump on ‘em. Dakota’s dropping some serious knowledge from his own journey. This is is stuff you’re gonna wanna hear whether you’re just starting out or already running the show. Check him out on ...
Mar 14, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 88
In this episode of the Dirt Bags Podcast, we're joined by Dylan Rosenthal, the owner of Red Run Property Services in Kellner, Wisconsin. Dylan walks us through his journey of starting and growing his property services business, sharing the highs and lows of the process. From building a reputation for top-notch service to tackling the unique challenges of running a business in the property industry, Dylan’s insights are invaluable for anyone looking to dive into entrepreneurship. Instagram @redru...
Feb 28, 2025•1 hr 26 min•Season 1Ep. 87
Tune in for Part III of the Dirt Bags X WWETT House series! Sponsor Spotlight: Our Construction Insurance MAN, Charlie Huff - Let’s get real—insurance might not be the flashiest topic, but if you're in excavation, grading, or any dirt-moving business, you know it’s absolutely critical. That’s why we’re fired up to shine the spotlight on our man, Charlie Huff. Charlie isn’t just any insurance agent; he’s one of us. Born in the shop and seasoned in the trades, he knows exactly what it takes to pro...
Feb 22, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Season 1Ep. 86
Tune in for Part II of the Dirt Bags X WWETT House series! Sponsor Spotlight: Our Construction Insurance MAN, Charlie Huff - Let’s get real—insurance might not be the flashiest topic, but if you're in excavation, grading, or any dirt-moving business, you know it’s absolutely critical. That’s why we’re fired up to shine the spotlight on our man, Charlie Huff. Charlie isn’t just any insurance agent; he’s one of us. Born in the shop and seasoned in the trades, he knows exactly what it takes to prot...
Feb 21, 2025•1 hr 18 min•Season 1Ep. 85
Tune in for Part 1 of the Dirt Bags X WWETT House series! Sponsor Spotlight: Our Construction Insurance MAN, Charlie Huff - Let’s get real—insurance might not be the flashiest topic, but if you're in excavation, grading, or any dirt-moving business, you know it’s absolutely critical. That’s why we’re fired up to shine the spotlight on our man, Charlie Huff. Charlie isn’t just any insurance agent; he’s one of us. Born in the shop and seasoned in the trades, he knows exactly what it takes to prote...
Feb 20, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Season 1Ep. 84
We're pumped to bring you a special live show straight from The Good Ol’ MSTA Conference . For this episode, we've got Dervin Witmer from Dig-It Excavating (@digitexcavating) joining in as the guest host, and we’re bringing along some of the best in the biz for an unforgettable conversation. We’ve got: Rick Throop from Woods-Utica Septic Service (@instagramlessrickymullets69) sharing his wild stories and wisdom. Jason Spangle from Esch’s Septic Service (@eschsseptic), dropping knowledge on all t...
Feb 14, 2025•58 min•Season 1Ep. 83
It's hard to believe it's been THREE YEARS of The Dirt Bags Podcast! Time flies when you're talking snow, dirt, and everything in between. To help celebrate this huge milestone, we've got an epic lineup of guests: Jeremy Lindstrom from Glacier Snow Management ( @glacier_snow_management) Steve Vilardi from All Hands Landscaping ( @allhansdandscaping @thesnowjobspodcast) The crew from The Snowjobs Podcast – yes, you heard that right, we’re bringing in the legends of snow business back on to talk! ...
Jan 31, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 1Ep. 82
On this episode of the Dirt Bags Podcast, we tune in with Lincoln Ruggeberg, the man behind Links Outdoor Services, a premier landscaping and lawn care business based in Rochester, MN. Lincoln’s got a wealth of knowledge when it comes to running a successful outdoor service company! Lincoln’s no-nonsense approach to business and his passion for the work he does are sure to inspire, so grab your headphones, kick back, and get ready for a jam-packed episode of Dirt Bags! Link's Instagram: https://...
Jan 17, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 1Ep. 81
In this episode of the Dirt Bags Podcast, Luke Eggebraaten talks with 25-year-old Mason Pichetti, owner of True North Excavating in Duluth, MN. Despite his youth, Mason has quickly built a reputation for hard work and resilience in the competitive excavation industry. But success hasn’t come without its challenges. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and the realities of running a business in your 20s. It’s a great reminder that success isn’t just about ...
Jan 03, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 80
In today’s episode of Dirt Bags, we're joined by Alicia Brentzel, the brilliant mind behind Brex Enterprises, to talk all things profit and loss, margins, and the nitty-gritty of building a successful business. Alicia brings a wealth of knowledge from her years in the trenches of financial strategy, and we’re going deep into how to read your P&L like a pro, manage your margins, and truly understand the numbers that drive your business forward. Grab your notebooks, because this one is loaded ...
Dec 20, 2024•1 hr 21 min•Season 1Ep. 79
