Pave It Black: The Official Podcast of NAPA

In the final episode of Pave It Black, Jim McEvoy, President & CEO of Wirtgen America, shares why a deep knowledge of how your products, teams, and services come together is critical to staying true to your company’s vision and brand promise. From integrating multiple brands under one umbrella to leading innovation in roadbuilding equipment, Jim explains how aligning every step of the process with a clear purpose drives long-term success. We discuss the importance of visibility at industry tradeshows, and how a strong brand is built through service and strategy. Tune in to the season finale for insights that will sharpen your leadership mindset. Episode sponsored by Wirtgen Group. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Organizational transitions involve more than balance sheets and operational plans—they require navigating the emotional dynamics that often make or break leadership changes. In this episode, we speak with leadership development expert and author of Succeeding: Stepping Up Without Stepping In It, Albert Ciuksza. With decades of consulting experience, Albert walks us through the nuanced dynamics between successors and predecessors in asphalt and beyond. He emphasizes emotional intelligence as the key to managing transitions effectively and warns how ignoring the human side of leadership can derail even the best-laid plans. Whether you’re planning an exit or preparing to step up, this conversation gives you the tools to lead a successful transition. Tune in today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we shift gears and dive into leadership in a vital area of our industry: sales. With the help of Brodie Hutchins, Vice President of VÖGELE Products at the Wirtgen Group and Chair of NAPA’s Associate Member Council, we break down what it takes to become a trusted voice in the field. Brodie shares what it truly takes to succeed in sales roles—a blend of deep technical knowledge and relationship-building that puts people first. He discusses key sales philosophies like value over price, how to motivate teams during down cycles, and why honesty builds lasting customer trust. Tune in to sharpen your business development mindset and learn how to thrive in your sales role. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stepping into a new industry can be challenging or intimidating, but for Amanda Mohr, it brought tremendous growth. This week, the President of Superior Bowen shares how her background in finance became a powerful foundation for leading with precision, adaptability, and authenticity. Through her commitment to lifelong learning, she’s embraced every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Whether she's innovating operational practices at Superior Bowen or championing women in the industry through Women of Asphalt, Amanda’s stayed true to her core values of hard work and commitment to excellence. If you’re considering an industry pivot or want to transition your skills, this episode offers actionable advice. Tune in today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When we think of leadership, we often picture the teams we manage or the goals we set—but sometimes, we need to look a little closer. True leadership starts with self-awareness: it starts with me. In this episode of Pave It Black, executive coach and leadership expert, Wally Adamchik, shares how he has helped leaders grow by embracing grace and humility. With decades of experience coaching executives in the construction industry, Wally breaks down what it means to develop values and why your mission matters more than you think. Listen to uncover the leadership lessons that bring real value to the asphalt pavement industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Relationships in leadership are vital for success—both with clients and with your crew. This week, global business development expert Hilary Fordwich brings 30+ years of experience to unpack how strong leadership attracts business, builds loyalty, and drives results. Through her “Want v. Need” framework, Hilary explains how to develop teams that don’t just perform, they believe in the work. Listeners will learn the three characteristics every leader must have to drive team performance and why emotional buy-in matters more than just a paycheck. Tune in to learn how you can build trust and boost morale at your company, plus key tips on how to get more hours out of your workday. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Aaron Witt, the Founder of BuildWitt, joins us to share how a relentless drive for curiosity has shaped his leadership journey—and how it can do the same for you. Aaron emphasizes that building authentic cultures and investing in people as individuals, not just workers, is the secret to success. Drawing from global experiences and countless conversations with industry leaders, he shows how staying continually curious and bettering yourself can drive real change. Whether you're managing a crew, navigating early leadership challenges, or simply wanting to build a stronger team, this episode will leave you motivated to think differently, lead boldly, and build better. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can you transition between roles while staying true to your values? This week’s guest, Deb Schwerman, demonstrates that a passion for your work and industry can reinforce those values, no matter your position. As the current Executive Director of the Wisconsin Asphalt Pavement Association, she shares her journey—from inspecting asphalt in the field and testing samples in the lab to leading industry-wide initiatives. Her willingness to embrace every opportunity and forward-thinking perspective shows that leadership is shaped by the journey, not just the destination. Be inspired by Deb’s path, passion, and purpose. Listen now! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This special edition honors National Work Zone Awareness Week with an in-depth look at how awareness, advocacy, and innovation are creating safer job sites for road workers. First, we hear from Mitch Baldwin and Cameron Greene —two leading voices in the Work Zone Safety Coalition—who break down the latest policy efforts, the impact of federal and state-level changes, and how you can join the awareness campaign. Then, we spotlight NB West Contracting, winner of NAPA’s 2024 Asphalt Operations Safety Innovations Award. Their team share stories from job sites and explain how they developed this award-winning technology. Whether you're on the job site, advocating on the Hill, or driving through a work zone, this episode will inspire you to play an active role in protecting the people who keep America moving. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Diverse professional experiences play a crucial role in shaping effective, people-centered leadership. This week, Maure Creager, the Director of Circular Economy at CertainTeed, discusses how her varied background has enabled her to successfully transition into the asphalt pavement industry. She offers valuable advice for professionals aspiring to leadership roles, highlighting the importance of surrounding oneself with diverse perspectives, learning from past experiences, and remaining authentic. Tune in to learn what it means to lead with humility and curiosity while promoting principles of the circular economy and sustainability in business. Episode sponsored by CertainTeed Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam Tarnow didn’t plan to become a leadership expert—but his curiosity and drive to be a better boss led him to coach hundreds of professionals to become leaders others want to follow. This week, Adam helps us break down three essential traits every leader needs—and how asphalt pavement professionals can apply them to lead teams, projects, and companies more successfully. He highlights the importance of being realistically optimistic when faced with challenges and how developing a personal brand can support your leadership aspirations. This episode will leave you with actionable ideas on how to lead with more clarity, empathy, and confidence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Successful leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about building healthy relationships within and outside your organization. For this week’s episode, Audrey Copeland returns to the studio to lead a conversation with Christine Shaw, President and CEO of Naylor Association Solutions, a company that has partnered with NAPA for over 20 years. Together, they explore how partnerships, humility, and visibility shape effective leadership. Christine shares how great leaders acknowledge their blind spots, build strong teams, and seek continuous growth—both for themselves and the organizations they serve. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this episode will challenge you to rethink leadership as a journey of learning, adapting, and giving as much as you receive. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What role do values play in setting the direction of a company? During this week’s episode, we learn how Superior Paving’s focus on developing remarkable employees through excellence, partnership, integrity, and commitment (EPIC) has strengthened their company culture. With the help of David White, President of Superior Paving, we discuss how values aren’t just words on a wall, but a daily practice that shapes decision-making and leadership. Tune in to hear how leading with integrity, fostering self-awareness, and truly caring for your people can transform both businesses and the industry. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creativity isn’t solely reserved for artists, it’s a critical skill that leaders can use to innovate, adapt, and thrive. This week, Richard and Brett welcome Josh Linkner – entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and jazz musician – to the studio to uncover how leaders can embrace their innate creative abilities. After an inspiring session at Annual Meeting, we dive deeper into Josh’s 5 Big Principles, learn personal stories of overcoming failure, and discuss the future of leadership. Listen for an inspiring conversation on thinking differently, fostering fear-free cultures, and the power of creativity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creativity isn’t solely reserved for artists, it’s a critical skill that leaders can use to innovate, adapt, and thrive. This week, Richard and Brett welcome Josh Linkner – entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and jazz musician – to the studio to uncover how leaders can embrace their innate creative abilities. After an inspiring session at Annual Meeting, we dive deeper into Josh’s 5 Big Principles, learn personal stories of overcoming failure, and discuss the future of leadership. Listen for an inspiring conversation on thinking differently, fostering fear-free cultures, and the power of creativity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we sit down with NAPA President and CEO Dr. Audrey Copeland to discuss her journey from engineer to industry leader. Audrey shares insights on leadership transitions, the key qualities of successful leaders, and key moments that helped her succeed on her career path. She also discusses the importance of setting the right tone as a leader, making decisive choices, and embracing change. Tune in to hear her perspectives on fostering collaboration, leveraging peer networks, and ensuring long-term industry success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Season nine of Pave It Black returns and we're diving into the topic of leadership. To kick things off, we sit down with Pat Nelson, newly elected NAPA Chairman and President of Lehman-Roberts, a Granite Company. Pat reflects on his path from fieldwork to industry leadership, the role of mentorship, and why advocacy is essential for shaping the future of the asphalt pavement industry. Don’t miss this deep dive into what leadership looks like in action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the final episode of Season 8, we pick up our conversation with Tim Kowalski and Laikram Narsingh from Wirtgen Group. We explore two innovative technologies changing the asphalt pavement industry: 3D paving and Cold Central Plant Recycling. We learn what these technologies are, how they were developed, and we share real-world examples of these technologies in action. Join us as we wrap up this season focused on Technology and the People Who Use It!

For the penultimate episode of Season 8, we kick off the first half of a two-part conversation with Tim Kowalski and Laikram Narsingh from Wirtgen Group. During this conversation, Tim and Nars delve into the critical role of training and sustainability in asphalt paving. We explore how to help the workforce understand and adopt new technologies and discuss the retention challenges manufacturers are facing. Finally, we discuss how equipment technology can contribute to the sustainability goals of the industry and the steps contractors can take to join this movement. Episode sponsored by Wirtgen Group: https://www.wirtgen-group.com/en-us/

This week, Richard and Brett explore the technology of wear parts. With the help of Brian Handshoe and Randy Barrington from Kenco Engineering, we break down what wear parts are, how this technology evolved, and where Kenco stands as an innovator in the field. From asphalt drums to auger blades, we’ll discuss specific examples of wear parts, including best practices for integration and maintenance to maximize equipment lifespan. Finally, we take a look at the future of wear part technology and discuss how wear parts contribute to the sustainability efforts of our industry. Episode sponsored by Kenco Engineering: https://www.kencoengineering.com/