The Iron & Infrastructure Podcast

In this episode, I dive into one of the most uncomfortable but powerful moments in anyone's life — the restart. I've been through seasons where something ended, whether it was a job, a relationship, or a dream I thought would work out. And every time, that moment of starting over felt like fear mixed with uncertainty. But what I've learned is this: a restart isn't the end. It's a rebirth. It's planting a new seed instead of being buried by your circumstances. I break down why starting from scratch is actually the key to long-term confidence, clarity, and resilience. You'll learn how to embrace being bad at something in the beginning, how to find direction when everything feels unclear, and how daily discipline compounds into greatness. If you're in a season of change or feel like you're being forced to rebuild, this episode gives you the mindset and strategy to take the next step forward with purpose. Key Topics: Why restarts feel terrifying — and why that feeling is actually normal. The mindset shift: you MUST expect to be bad at something before you become great.  How small daily reps build confidence, clarity, and long-term growth. Turning setbacks, losses, or endings into opportunities to rebuild with purpose.  Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #JacobEmery #MindsetShift #RestartYourLife #GrowthMindset #SelfImprovement #RebuildStronger #DisciplineEqualsFreedom #UnlockGreatness #NewBeginnings

On this episode of the Iron & Infrastructure Podcast, I sit down with my guy Hunter Longberry—a trainer, entrepreneur, and someone who's had to face a level of adversity most people couldn't imagine at 27 years old. Hunter opens up about the moment he was diagnosed with AFib, how it completely changed the trajectory of his life, and why it became the greatest blessing in disguise. We dig into discipline, ownership, mindset, community, and the unseen struggle that shapes the strongest people. If you've ever felt stuck, scared, or uncertain about your path… this episode is going to hit you in your chest. Key Topics: How Hunter turned a life-altering heart diagnosis into his biggest breakthrough. The mindset shift from bodybuilding to business ownership and leadership. Why discipline, community, and consistency will always beat motivation. Building confidence, purpose, and direction through adversity—not avoiding it.  Follow @lifeofhl on instagram or checkout builtbyhl.com Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructurePodcast #JacobEmery #HunterLongberry #MindsetMatters #MaxEffortMafia #NextLevelMindset #OvercomingAdversity #DisciplineWins #EntrepreneurLife #FitnessMindset #BuiltByHL #PersonalGrowth #DoTheWork

In this episode of The Iron & Infrastructure Podcast, I break down the mindset that took me from a kid everyone counted out — "dead or in jail by 21" — to owning a multi-million-dollar company with over 100 employees. This clip comes from a speech I gave at one of Cory Gregory's events, but the message is everything I stand for today: Be relentless in the pursuit… and patient with the outcome. I share the moment Cory asked me the question that snapped me out of the victim mindset, how I went from $9 an hour to buying R&R Pipeline with only $37K to my name, and what it really feels like to push every chip in when nothing is guaranteed. If you're someone who's grinding but not seeing results yet, this episode will show you why your breakthrough might not be quick — but it will come if you refuse to quit. Key Topics: The single question that flipped my entire life direction. How persistence opened a door my net worth didn't qualify for. Why one handshake changed everything for my future. How "persistent patience" became my life philosophy.  Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #PersistentPatience #JacobEmery #IronAndInfrastructure #RelentlessMindset #EntrepreneurMindset #BlueCollarLeadership #SelfImprovement #MaxEffort #LeadershipDevelopment #NeverQuit #FromTheBottomUp #MindsetShift #DisciplineEqualsFreedom

In this episode, I sit down with Kevin D'Anna to dig into what real leadership looks like — not titles, not ego, but the standards you live by when nobody's around. We talk about influence, accountability, insecurity disguised as leadership, and why simplicity and clarity matter more than complexity in the trades. Kevin shares the lessons that shaped him as a leader, a father, and a business owner, along with the hard mistakes that taught him how to build teams built on trust instead of fear. If you want a conversation rooted in real blue-collar experience, real adversity, and real leadership — this is it. Key Topics: Leading people vs. managing tasks Why insecurity shows up as fake leadership Clarity and simplicity as tools for better communication How adversity sharpens character, standards, and influence  Follow @thekevindanna on Instagram and DM him the word "leadership" to get his free 30-minute leadership framework — a tool to help you communicate your vision and build stronger connection with your team. Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #Leadership #BlueCollarLeadership #KevinDAnna #JacobEmery #WorkCulture #LeadershipFramework #MindsetDevelopment

In this episode, I break down the 7 C's of communication—a simple framework that will change the way you lead, delegate, and connect with people. For years, my communication created confusion, frustration, and chaos on job sites and inside teams. I'd give directions that weren't clear, make assumptions, and get frustrated when the outcome wasn't what I pictured. But when I learned how to communicate with clarity, precision, and respect, everything in my leadership changed. Culture improved. Expectations were met. People performed with confidence because they finally knew what "done" actually looked like. Inside this episode, I'm giving you real-world examples, the mistakes I made, and the exact mindset shift that helped me become a better communicator and a better leader. If you struggle with delegation, misunderstandings, or tension-filled conversations, these 7 C's are your blueprint. Leadership isn't about saying more — it's about saying what matters in a way people can hear it.  Key Topics: Why unclear communication destroys culture, confidence, and execution How the 7 C's instantly improve leadership, delegation, and expectations Real job-site examples of communication gone wrong—and how to fix them Why leaders must focus on connection over correction  Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #Leadership #CommunicationSkills #ClarityOverChaos #JacobEmery #LeadershipGrowth #BuildBetterLeaders #TeamCulture #MindsetForSuccess

In this episode, I sit down with Brady Lowe to talk about what it really takes to build a team that wins — not just in business, but in life. We dive into leadership, accountability, and how to create a culture where people want to show up and do their best every day. This one's packed with real talk about ownership, mindset, and building from the ground up. Whether you're leading a crew, starting a business, or just trying to level up personally — this episode will hit home. Key Topics: What true leadership looks like — beyond the title Creating accountability and culture in the workplace Lessons from blue-collar roots and building from nothing Why consistency beats motivation every time  Follow Brady @bradylowe75 Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #LeadershipTalk #BlueCollarMindset #Accountability #TeamCulture #PersonalGrowth #SuccessHabits #BradyLowe #JacobEmery

This episode dives into the real meaning behind iron — not just the weights in the gym, but the mindset that forges greatness. I talk about what it means to ignite your own spark instead of waiting for motivation to appear, how resolve changes everything once you commit, and why the perfect moment doesn't exist — you create it. I share my own experiences from building R&R Pipeline and how taking that first imperfect step opened doors I never could've planned for. This one's a wake-up call: stop waiting for someday. Today is day one. Key Topics: Ignite the Spark: How to create energy and motivation through action, not waiting.  Resolve in Action: What it means to commit fully — burn the boats and move forward.  Creating Opportunity: Why opportunities are built through persistence, not luck. The Power of "Now": Shifting from "one day" to "day one" and how that decision changes everything.  Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #IgniteResolveOpportunity #UnlockGreatness #CommitNow #DisciplineOverMotivation #PipelineMindset #DayOneNotOneDay #IronMindset #Leadership #GrowthThroughAction

In this episode, I sit down with Billy Beckman, founder of BeneBytes Meal Prep and member of the Next Level community, to talk about how structure, mindset, and community shape lasting growth. Billy shares his journey from early struggles to becoming a husband, father, and entrepreneur committed to continuous self-improvement. We dive into the power of daily habits, how to stay grounded during life's changing seasons, and why the people you surround yourself with determine how far you'll go. This conversation is full of perspective on living intentionally, staying consistent, and creating systems that help you become the person your goals require. It's an honest look at what it means to grow — not just in business or fitness, but in life. Key Topics: How habits and systems build lasting success — both in business and personal life The importance of community and mentorship through Next Level and beyond  Navigating the seasons of life while maintaining purpose and balance Building fulfillment through consistency, gratitude, and authentic growth  Follow Billy @bigbeck9 Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #JacobEmery #BillyBeckman #BeneBytes #NextLevelCommunity #Mindset #PersonalGrowth #Discipline #Entrepreneurship #SelfImprovement #IntentionalLiving #PodcastEpisode

In this episode, I dive deep into the power of being uncomfortable — and why it's the exact place you need to be if you want to grow. Growth doesn't happen when you're comfortable; it happens when you're challenged, uncertain, and questioning if you can keep going. I share how my own journey — from losing weight to finding confidence and purpose — was built on facing discomfort head-on. If you're feeling resistance right now, good. That means you're in the right place. Key Topics: Why discomfort is the foundation of real growth The danger of comfort and "arrival syndrome" How fear can be used as a feedback loop for direction Repetition, consistency, and how not quitting changes everything  Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️  Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #MindsetGrowth #GetUncomfortable #NeverSettle #DisciplineWins #JacobEmery #GrowthMindset #KeepGoing

In this episode, I sit down with Marine veteran and entrepreneur Buddy Rushing to talk about discipline, perspective, and the lessons combat taught him about life and business. We break down what real freedom means, how to stay calm under pressure, and why delayed gratification is the key to fulfillment. This one's packed with truth, perspective, and mindset shifts that'll make you think differently about success. Key Topics: How facing life-or-death moments shaped Buddy's ability to stay calm in chaos. Why discipline and structure create more freedom, not less. The hidden power of delayed gratification in business and life. Letting go of ego, giving grace, and learning that nobody's coming to save you.  Follow Buddy @buddyrushing Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructurePodcast #BuddyRushing #VeteranMindset #DisciplineEqualsFreedom #Leadership #Mindset #PersonalGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Perspective #JacobEmery

I get asked a lot if I ever feel lonely while chasing my goals — and the truth is, yeah, I do. But I've learned that loneliness in growth isn't a bad thing… it's a necessary part of the process. In this episode, I break down why outgrowing people doesn't mean you're better than them, how insecurity often shows up as resistance, and the three-step method I use to move from breakdown to breakthrough: Break Down. Build the Bridge. Build Up. If you're in that in-between season — where you've let go of the old but haven't yet found the new — this one's for you. Key Topics: The hidden purpose behind loneliness during personal growth Why people pull away when you start leveling up Recognizing projection and insecurity in others The "Breakdown–Bridge–Build Up" blueprint for transformation How to create a new environment that matches your next level  Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructurePodcast #JacobEmery #GrowthMindset #PersonalDevelopment #LonelinessAndGrowth #SelfImprovement #Motivation #Discipline #BreakthroughBlueprint #LevelUpJourney

In this episode, I sit down with leadership and performance expert Chris Atwell to break down what it really means to lead with purpose and build a culture of accountability. We talk about how transformational leadership empowers people to think for themselves, why standards matter more than titles, and how to develop a "dream team" that wins together. Chris and I also dive into ego vs. confidence, the importance of feedback loops, and how your personal systems and habits directly impact your team's success. This episode is packed with lessons every leader — in business or life — needs to hear. Key Topics: What transformational leadership looks like in action. How to hold yourself and your team accountable to a higher standard. The power of feedback, communication, and consistency. Daily habits that fuel confidence, clarity, and team performance.  Follow Chris @thechrisatwell Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #Leadership #Transformation #Accountability #WinningCulture #TeamSuccess #ChrisAtwell #JacobEmery #Discipline #Mindset #PersonalGrowth #HighPerformance

In this episode, I share one of the most intense moments of my life — a real-world test of self-control when everything in me wanted to react with violence. Most people talk about building self-esteem, but the truth is, self-control is what builds it. This story will show you why mastering your emotions and actions — especially in high-stakes situations — is what truly defines strength. Sometimes, being capable of great power means knowing when not to use it. Key Topics: The difference between self-control and self-esteem — and which one really leads to growth How to stay composed when your instincts want to take over  Real-life example of restraint and what it taught me about strength Why mastering control over your capabilities changes your entire life  Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #MindsetMatters #SelfControl #DisciplineOverEmotion #GrowthMindset #MentalStrength #JacobEmery #LeadershipThroughControl #RestraintIsPower

In this episode, I sit down with Jon Minjoe — a man who's lived and led through the grind of construction, leadership, and personal growth. From starting in the trenches to shaping the next generation of leaders, Jon shares what it truly means to lead with integrity, stay grounded through chaos, and keep pushing forward when no one's watching. We dive deep into the discipline, humility, and mindset it takes to build something that lasts — not just in business, but in life. Whether you're building a company, a team, or yourself, Jon's story will hit home. Key Topics: How to build trust, lead by example, and earn respect through consistency. What construction work teaches about mental toughness and personal discipline. Why investing in people creates the strongest foundation for success. How Jon finds purpose beyond the job site and keeps his values first.  Follow Jon @jonminjoe Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #JacobEmery #JonMinjoe #LeadershipPodcast #ConstructionLife #MindsetMatters #GritAndGrowth #BlueCollarStrong #PersonalGrowth #DisciplineWins #LegacyBuilders

Episode 200 — what a ride. I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate this milestone than sitting down on Muscle Island with the guy who helped start it all — Cory Gregory. From the early days of the 4AM Crew to building a life around fitness, leadership, and purpose, Cory's been a constant example of what it means to keep showing up and never lose the fire. We talk legacy, discipline, staying hungry after decades in the game, and what it feels like to see things come full circle. This one's special. Thank you for being part of the journey. Key Topics: Recording on Muscle Island: Why this spot represents the grind, legacy, and brotherhood. 200 Episodes of Growth: Lessons learned through consistency, purpose, and the long game. Cory's Mindset Evolution: How to keep leveling up when most people would stop. The Legacy of the 4AM Crew: What it means to build something that lasts.  Follow Cory @corygfitness Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #MuscleIsland #Episode200 #CoryGregory #JacobEmery #4amCrew #Legacy #Discipline #Leadership #FitnessMindset #Entrepreneurship #NeverSettle #MilestoneEpisode

Episode 200 is right around the corner — and before we hit that milestone, I wanted to take it back to where it all started. This one's special. I'm throwing it back to Episode 1 — the first-ever Iron & Infrastructure Podcast with my guy Cory Gregory. This episode set the tone for everything that came after: discipline, leadership, and the mindset to build something brick by brick. If you've been rocking with us since the beginning, thank you for being part of this journey. If you're new, this is the perfect look at where it all began and what the message has always been about — showing up, working hard, and building the life you want. Key Topics: Throwback to Episode 1: Replaying the first-ever episode with Cory Gregory. How discipline and daily habits shaped the Iron & Infrastructure mindset. Cory's approach to leading with purpose and structure.  Follow Cory G @corygfitness Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #CoryGregory #PodcastThrowback #Discipline #FaithAndWork #MindsetPodcast #JacobEmery #IronAndInfrastructurePodcast

In this episode, I break down why your 20s are the ultimate decade to grind, fail, and rebuild without apology. Too many people are afraid of the relentless work it takes to figure out who they truly are. I believe this season of life is about embracing your weirdness, questioning tradition, and chasing authenticity instead of normal results. It's not about working your life away—it's about investing ten solid years into building the foundation of who you're meant to become. If you're ready to stop settling for average and unlock your greatness, this episode will hit home. Key Topics: Why your 20s are the best time to grind and fail forward The two types of people: truth seekers vs. tradition defenders Embracing weirdness and authenticity in a world that fears it Stacking wins, learning from failures, and the long-term ROI of hard work  Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #UnlockingGreatness #Authenticity #EmbraceYourWeirdness #GrindSeason #PersonalGrowth #WorkYour20s #DisciplineEqualsFreedom

On this episode of The Iron & Infrastructure Podcast, I sit down with my good friend Josh Reiss — a man who embodies what it means to build a strong life on and off the job site. Josh is a devoted father, husband, and pipefitter whose story is fueled by faith, hard work, and the pursuit of balance in a demanding trade. We talk about the sacrifices, discipline, and mindset it takes to not just survive in the trades, but to thrive while keeping your family and values at the center. Whether you're chasing growth in your career, your faith, or your role as a parent, Josh's perspective is one you don't want to miss. Key Topics: - Josh shares how his faith guides his decisions at work and at home. - He opens up about the challenges and rewards of being a present father and husband. - Discipline in the trades teaches him resilience that carries into everyday life. - His journey proves that purpose matters more than simply settling. Follow Josh @_jreiss Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #Podcast #Tradesmen #FaithAndWork #Fatherhood #Leadership #Pipefitter #GrowthMindset #Discipline #BuildingWithPurpose

In this episode, I dive into the old-school idea of the "company man" and why that narrative is outdated. To me, it's not about blind loyalty to a company—it's about becoming a family man, a provider, and someone who takes pride in doing things the right way. I break down how real leadership comes from effort, standards, and doing what others won't, both on and off the clock. This isn't about settling for average—it's about separating yourself, creating more value, and ultimately building a life you're proud of. Key Topics: Why the "company man" narrative no longer works The shift from company-focused to family-focused purpose How providing value accelerates career and personal growth The power of doing the right thing—especially when no one's watching  Follow along @jacobemery44  Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️  Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #Leadership #WorkEthic #Provider #FamilyMan #Discipline #PersonalGrowth #PipelineLife

In this episode, I sit down with Levi Lamp, Safety & Compliance Manager at R&R Pipeline and someone who has been a driving force in shaping our culture. From starting at the bottom to leading us to three national safety awards in four years, Levi shares how technology, communication, and leadership have transformed his career—and how loyalty and persistence continue to set the standard at R&R. We dive into fatherhood, entrepreneurship, perfectionism, and what it really means to be part of a winning team. This is more than just a story about safety—it's about growth, grit, and building a dream team that refuses to settle. Key Topics: Levi's journey from laborer to Safety & Compliance Manager at R&R Pipeline The power of progress over perfection and persistent patience Balancing fatherhood, leadership, and personal growth How loyalty and communication create a true dream team culture 👉 Learn more about joining our team at rrpipelineinc.com Follow Levi here Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com  #IronAndInfrastructure #Leadership #PipelineLife #DreamTeam #UnlockingGreatness #SafetyFirst #Persistence #GrowthMindset #RRPipeline #Podcast