Claim OwnershipPowerline Podcast
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© Ryan Lucas
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This podcast is for anyone in the power line industry. Those of you that love to build and maintain power lines at work and after work. This is a collection of stories from line workers around the world. This is a community for us to share where we’ve been, who we’ve worked with, projects we’ve been apart of and hopefully pass on some of those key lessons that we could all learn from. This podcast will be a mix of line workers and their stories as well as other professionals sharing about how to keep a healthy mind, body and spirit.
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In this episode of Powerline Podcast, I sit down with Juan Huerta and Beau Tubbs from Arizona Public Service for a deep dive into the world of substation work—one of the most critical, high-risk, and least understood parts of the power system.We unpack what a real day in the life of a substation electrician looks like, why precision matters when the margin for error is slim, and how trust, communication, and accountability show up differently inside a substation than out on the line. This conversation goes beyond job titles and into the weight of responsibility that comes with working where everything connects.Juan and Beau also share hard-earned lessons on collaboration between crafts, “failing safely,” teaching complex systems to apprentices, and creating environments where crews feel comfortable speaking up when something doesn’t feel right. We also talk candidly about stress, mental health, and what it takes to stay sharp—both on the job and at home.🎧 Topics include:• A day in the life of substation professionals• Why substations are critical to grid reliability• Trust and communication in high-risk environments• Collaboration across multiple crafts• Teaching, mentoring, and passing knowledge forward• Mental health and stress in high-responsibility rolesWhether you work in substations, linework, or anywhere in the trades, this episode offers a rare inside look at the people and precision that keep the grid running.
In this episode of Powerline Podcast, I sit down with APS foremen Casey Lozier, Eric Eager, and Andrew Schonhoff for an honest roundtable conversation about what really holds crews together in the trade.We talk openly about trust, mentorship, brotherhood, and the human side of being responsible for people — not just production. This conversation goes beyond the job and into the realities foremen face every day: balancing expectations, teaching the next generation, handling conflict, supporting mental health, and creating crews where people actually want to show up and work for each other.The panel shares lessons learned the hard way, stories from the field, and practical insight on how culture is built through small daily actions — not titles or speeches. This episode is for anyone who’s ever worked on a crew, led one, or is about to step into more responsibility in the trade.🎧 Topics include:• Building trust on crews• Teaching and mentoring apprentices• Brotherhood and crew culture• Mental health on the job• Conflict resolution and communication• What foremen wish they’d learned earlierWhether you’re on the tools, running a crew, or moving toward more responsibility, this episode offers a rare look at the conversations that matter most in the field — but don’t always get said out loud.
In this episode of Powerline Podcast, I sit down with Brian "Biscuit" Alston, Artie Garcia, and Todd Wilson from Arizona Public Service for a raw conversation about what really changes when the work stops being just about you and starts being about everyone else.We talk about the moment responsibility shifts, how trust is earned from crews who used to be your peers, and why brotherhood still matters in a trade that demands both accountability and care for the people beside you. This isn’t about titles it’s about ownership, respect, and carrying the trade forward the right way.The conversation covers mentorship, culture, hard decisions, mistakes, and the unseen weight that comes with being responsible for people, production, and safety. Whether you’re still on the tools or stepping into more responsibility, this episode speaks directly to that transition every tradesperson eventually faces.🎧 Topics include:• The responsibility shift from tools to people• Earning respect without titles• Brotherhood, culture, and accountability• Mentoring the next generation• Hard lessons learned on the job• Carrying the trade forward with pride
In this episode of Powerline Podcast, I sit down with Mackenzie Rodgers, Vice President of Transmission & Distribution Operations at Arizona Public Service, for a powerful conversation on leadership, legacy, and long-term growth in the utility industry.Mackenzie shares her journey from interning at APS to stepping into a VP role—along with the lessons she learned along the way that continue to shape how she leads today. We talk about the influence of family legacy, earning trust in the field, making decisions under pressure, and what it really takes to grow as a leader without losing connection to the crews doing the work.We also dive into what it’s like to lead in a traditionally male-dominated industry, how respect is built over time, the role mentorship plays in developing future leaders, and what Mackenzie believes APS is doing well—and where there’s still room to grow.This episode is packed with insight for anyone in the trades, utilities, or construction industry—whether you’re just starting out, leading crews in the field, or navigating leadership at the executive level.
Karl Studer’s story is one of grit, vision, and staying rooted in where you came from.In this episode of Powerline Podcast, Ryan sits down with Karl Studer, Executive Vice President Electric for Quanta Services, to unpack his journey from growing up on a ranch in Idaho to becoming a lineman, building and scaling his own power line companies, and ultimately stepping into executive leadership at one of the largest infrastructure companies in the world.Karl shares the lessons he learned early on in the field, what it really takes to start and grow a line company, and how his time on the tools shaped the leader he is today. We dive into leadership, safety, culture, fatherhood, and why staying connected to the craft matters even at the highest levels of the organization.This conversation is about more than titles and success. It’s about work ethic, responsibility, building people, and leaving the trade better than you found it.If you’re a lineman, an apprentice, a foreman, or someone who believes in the long-term value of the trades, this episode will resonate.
In this episode, Ryan sits down with Elden Rivas — a Houston-based lineman from North Houston Pole Line, dedicated family man, and someone who takes his craft and his health seriously.Elden shares where his journey began, how he found his way into the line trade, and the mentors and moments that shaped him. We talk about balancing family with long days, why discipline matters, and how focusing on health has transformed both his life and his work in the field.This conversation is for every young person looking for direction, every lineman trying to stay sharp, and every parent working hard to build a legacy for their family. Elden’s story is proof that you can show up strong at work, strong at home, and still grow into the person you’re becoming.
Austin Carr is a lineman from Florida and goes by the name America's Favorite Lineman on social media. I caught up with Austin for a quick tailgate sit down interview at the International Lineman's Rodeo. He shared his journey into the trade, advice for young apprentices and linemen, and how social media has changed his life in a positive way. We even talked about money and how the most money he ever made in a single day didn't come directly from line work.
Walker Finch grew up chasing podiums as a professional BMX racer – now he’s chasing a career that gives him purpose, brotherhood, and a future.In this episode, we explore Walker’s transition from the athlete lifestyle into the blue-collar trades, his years in construction and water utilities, his decision to attend line school, and how living the western lifestyle shaped his values and path.Walker’s story is a message to every young person, every former athlete, and every kid looking for direction after school or sport: there is a life waiting for you in the trades.This is a raw, honest look at identity, mindset, grit, and the journey to becoming a lineman.
Adam Boggio lives two lives most people could never imagine: one on the lines and one in the sky.In this episode of Powerline Podcast, we dive deep into Adam’s journey as a lineman, how he stepped into the world of professional skydiving, the near misses, the mindset, the fear, and the moments that changed him.Adam opens up about mastering risk, trusting your crew, building courage, and the power of choosing a life that pushes you every single day. If you’re a lineman, an adrenaline junkie, or someone searching for purpose this episode will hit home.
In this episode, I sit down with Kassidy Warren who went from a career in the electrical industry to building financial freedom through real estate investing. After experiencing the pressures of corporate life and burnout, he made a life-changing pivot transforming mindset, health, and career along the way.We break down the lessons he carried from the trades into entrepreneurship, the mindset shifts needed to escape a toxic job, and how he built a thriving portfolio of short-term rentals and boutique hotels. He also shares a step-by-step masterclass on how anyone with a W2 job can launch their first STR in the next 12 months.If you’re stuck in a job that’s draining you, curious about STR investing, or ready to scale into true financial freedom, this episode is packed with insights and action steps you can use right now.Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Neither the host nor the guest are providing financial, investment, or legal advice. Always do your own research and consult with a licensed professional before making any financial decisions. Any strategies or examples discussed are personal experiences and may not be suitable for your situation.
In this episode, I sit down with Steve Kopp, VP of Safety, Health, & Environmental with MJ Electric and the creator of the Step & Touch Potential Simulator an innovation that’s transforming how linemen learn grounding and bonding.Steve shares his career journey in electrical safety, the difference between “safety on paper” and real jobsite culture, and the mindsets that keep crews accountable. We then dig into the process of creating the simulator from the “aha” moment to prototyping, testing, and earning Quanta’s CEO Innovation Award.Finally, Steve talks about the real-world impact this tool is having across the industry, what’s next for safety training, and his advice for anyone looking to bring new ideas into the trades.Whether you’re in the line trade, in safety, or just curious about how innovation comes to life in the field, this episode offers valuable lessons.
In this episode, I sit down with Mike Blandin, a foreman with Canadian Utility Construction (CUC), part of Quanta Services. Mike shares his journey in civil and gas utility construction, from breaking into the trade to leading crews on major projects across Canada.We dive into leadership lessons from the field, the realities of running a crew, and what separates a good foreman from a great one. Mike also opens up about crew culture, communication, and mental health in the trades, plus what it takes to stay grounded while managing the pressure of production and safety.Finally, we look ahead at the future of civil and gas utility work in Canada and how being part of Quanta Services connects CUC and its crews to something much bigger.Whether you’re in the trades, curious about utility construction, or looking for leadership wisdom, this conversation delivers real insights straight from the jobsite.
In this episode, I sit down with Jared Greenlee a second-generation IBEW journeyman lineman, storm hand, and the founder of Journeyman Gear. Jared shares his story of growing up in the trade, committing two decades to storm response, and ultimately turning his jobsite experience into a fast-growing tool brand.We cover everything from the mindsets that separate apprentices from journeymen, to the process of moving from idea to product launch, to how Journeyman Gear tools are improving safety and efficiency on real jobsites. Jared also offers candid advice for tradespeople who want to start something of their own whether it’s a tool, a service, or a business.If you’re a lineman, in the trades, or curious about how innovation comes straight from the field, this conversation will inspire you.
In this episode of Powerline Podcast, Ryan sits down with Dean Bell, a veteran lineman and foreman with decades in the trade. Dean pulls no punches as he shares what separates good leaders from great ones, how to earn trust under pressure, and why money, mindset, and mental health are the real make-or-break factors in this industry. From raw lessons learned on the job to advice every apprentice and foreman needs to hear, this is a conversation about leadership, longevity, and the truth about life in the line trade.
Steve Rozenberg went from flying international jets to building one of the fastest-growing property management companies in the U.S. scaling to over 1,000 units before making a successful exit.In this episode of Powerline Podcast, we dive deep into:How 9/11 ended Steve’s airline career and forced a total reinventionThe systems and KPIs he used to scale real estate and business operationsWhy tradespeople should think beyond self-employment and build businesses that work without themHis philosophy on “failing forward” and why failure is the best teacherThe story of the Live Like Jett Foundation—created in honor of his son, supporting students entering the tradesIf you’re in the trades, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just someone looking to turn setbacks into opportunities, Steve’s story is packed with lessons on resilience, leadership, and building lasting impact.Connect with Steve Rozenberg: https://steverozenberg.com/🎙️ Subscribe for more interviews with leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators shaping the trades.
In this episode of Powerline Podcast, I sit down with Alex Wakeland, Dan Stemp, and Benjamin Moore from JNCTN, the team behind a groundbreaking digital credential system for the trades. We dive into the real problem of verifying training and certifications on jobsites, how JNCTN’s technology works, and why it matters for safety, compliance, and efficiency. From reducing fraud and onboarding delays to helping crews deploy faster in emergencies, this conversation shows how digital credentials could transform the future of work in the trades. Whether you’re a contractor, union member, or apprentice, you’ll want to hear how this app could change the game.
In this episode of Powerline Podcast, I sit down with Alex Wakeland a General Foreman, content creator, and tech innovator who’s proving the trades can open doors far beyond the job site. We dive into what it really takes to build high-performing crews, the leadership lessons that stick, and how skills learned on the line can become a launchpad into tech, innovation, and bigger opportunities. From crew culture and safety to social media, AI, and the next generation of linemen this conversation is packed with insights every apprentice, journeyman, or leader needs to hear.✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ Hit up our website here:https://www.powerlinepodcast.com/ 📱FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱TikTok: / powerlinepodcast Instagram: / powerlinepodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...LinkedIn: / powerline-podcast Twitter: / powerlinepodcst HOST: RYAN LUCASInstagram: / ryanwlucas TikTok: / ryanwlucas 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥Email: powerlinepodcast@quantaservices.com
In this episode of Powerline Podcast, I sit down with Brandon Fiscus, a lineman turned senior leader at Allteck who now oversees recruiting, apprenticeship, and union workforce development. Brandon shares hard-earned lessons from over 20 years in the trade covering everything from leadership and crew culture to mental health, money mistakes, and what it really takes to succeed long-term in line industry. If you’re an apprentice, a journeyman, or anyone looking to grow in the trade, this conversation is packed with the advice you won’t find in a textbook.✌️SUPPORT THE PODCAST HERE ✌️ Hit up our website here:https://www.powerlinepodcast.com/ 📱FOLLOW ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA📱TikTok: / powerlinepodcast Instagram: / powerlinepodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...LinkedIn: / powerline-podcast Twitter: / powerlinepodcst HOST: RYAN LUCASInstagram: / ryanwlucas TikTok: / ryanwlucas 💥INQUIRIES OR GUEST SUGGESTION💥Email: powerlinepodcast@quantaservices.com
Chase Anderson has been leading in the powerline trade for years, earning respect in one of the toughest industries out there. In this episode of Powerline Podcast, we go deep on what real leadership looks like on the job, why mental health in the trades can’t be ignored, and where the future of line work in Canada is headed. We also talk about the opportunities young linemen should be paying attention to right now, the challenges crews face in the field, and the lessons Chase has learned from years of leading under pressure. If you’re in the trade—or thinking about joining—this episode is packed with honest, hard-earned advice from someone who’s been there.
What does it take to build one of the largest renewable energy projects in U.S. history?In this episode of Powerline Podcast, we head into the wind side of SunZia with Karissa Murillo and Chris Bruner of Blattner. Together, they break down the scale, coordination, and leadership it takes to install hundreds of turbines across remote terrain, and why this work is about more than just clean power. Karissa and Chris talk about the team dynamics, culture, and communication challenges on a job this size, and how leading people well can be just as important as hitting production goals. They also share what surprised them about the powerline world and what they wish the trades knew about each other. Whether you're on the line or in renewables, this episode connects the dots on the future of the industry, and the people powering it.
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Awesome job. Thanks for doing what you do for the industry and humanity. Mark Kennedy.