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The Iron & Infrastructure Podcast

The Iron & Infrastructure Podcast
Author: Jacob Emery
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© 2023
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The podcast that ties together fitness and construction. Shifting industry narrative and giving insight on becoming a business owner while living under the bar. Weightlifting, personal development, the infrastructure industry, and how to merge the two worlds to achieve prosperity.
201 Episodes
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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
It’s been two years of The Iron & Infrastructure Podcast—two years of consistency, failure, growth, and unexpected wins. When I started, I had no clue what I was doing. I wasn’t a great speaker, didn’t know audio or video, and honestly had no idea if anyone would listen. But I showed up anyway. In this episode, I’m sharing the 10 biggest lessons podcasting has taught me about life, leadership, and unlocking greatness. From the power of consistency, to why vulnerability wins, to how storytelling and conversations have completely changed my world—this is a reflection not just on my journey, but on what’s possible for you. This episode is about facing the storm, chasing growth, and realizing that greatness isn’t given—it’s unlocked. Key Topics: Consistency over intensity: why showing up beats going all-in once. Conversations are currency: the hidden power of relationships and networking. Clarity comes from action: why taking imperfect steps beats waiting for the perfect plan. Vulnerability as strength: how being open creates connection and trust. Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #UnlockYourGreatness #PodcastLessons #TwoYearsStrong #ConsistencyWins #GrowthMindset #LeadershipJourney #VulnerabilityWins #ConversationsAreCurrency
This is a special episode of The Iron and Infrastructure Podcast—but the story started on Dan Sullivan’s Multiplier Mindset podcast. I had the honor of sitting down with Dan to share my journey from a troubled past to building R&R Pipeline, starting new businesses, and unlocking my own greatness. I open up about the darkest parts of my life, the turning points that shaped me, and the lessons that helped me go from $9 an hour with a shovel in my hand to owning the company and creating a life filled with fulfillment and purpose. If you’ve ever felt like the odds were stacked against you or that success was impossible, this conversation will show you what’s truly possible when you change your environment, face your fears, and commit to growth. Key Topics: Dead or in jail by 21 → how hitting rock bottom shaped my drive. From $9/hour to ownership → the long shot dream that became reality. Strategic Coach → the environment that gave me clarity and confidence. Unlocking Greatness → daily habits and mindset shifts that changed everything. Follow Dan on Multiplier Mindset with Dan Sullivan Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #UnlockingGreatness #EntrepreneurMindset #DanSullivan #PodcastInterview #OvercomingAdversity #Leadership #PersonalGrowth
When I look back at my journey, it all started with the most humbling work you could imagine—cleaning drains, moving oil pans, and screwing up my first oil change at 16 years old. I never thought those moments would shape the foundation of who I am today. In this episode, I share the raw, unfiltered story of how I went from a clueless kid in the shop to stepping into the chaos of my very first pipeline job. These experiences taught me lessons about work, humility, and grit that I still carry with me today. Key Topics: From $7/hour shop helper to learning what hard work really meant Lessons from embarrassing mistakes and early failures Transitioning from the shop to the field and discovering what “good” vs. “bad” work looked like The eye-opening reality of my first big pipeline project—chaos, grit, and survival Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #PipelineStories #BlueCollarGrit #LeadershipJourney #HardWorkPaysOff #JacobEmeryPodcast #FromTheGroundUp
At a Max Effort event, I shared my heart on what it really takes to turn a dream into reality. Everyone has a dream — it’s unique to you, like your fingerprint — but most people never take the steps to make it happen. In this talk, I break down my “Dream Framework”: finding the right direction, embracing risk, empowering yourself and others, and most importantly, taking massive action. I also reveal my “Standards of Greatness” — daily principles like no snooze, physical output, mental input, and track and attack — that keep me accountable and consistent. This isn’t just motivation; it’s a blueprint for building a life of discipline, clarity, and fulfillment. Key Topics: The Dream Framework Why your dream is as unique as your fingerprint The Standards of Greatness for daily discipline and momentum The power of community and environment in shaping your evolution Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #ironandinfrastructure #unlockingreatness #dreamframework #standardsofgreatness #maxeffort
People waste so much time asking if the glass is half full or half empty. The truth? It doesn’t matter. The real question is — what are you going to do about it? In this episode, I break down why perception isn’t enough, why leaders focus on the faucet, and how taking full ownership of your life allows you to keep refilling your glass with discipline, purpose, and growth. If you’ve been stuck staring at what’s left instead of focusing on what you can create, this is your reminder: you’re in control of what gets poured in next. Key Topics: Why the “half full / half empty” debate misses the point How leaders focus on the faucet, not the level Taking ownership and continuously pouring into yourself Refusing to settle and choosing growth every day Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #ironandinfrastructure #unlockingreatness #mindsetshift #ownershipmentality #growthmindset
I didn’t grow up with confidence, connections, or a clear path forward. I struggled with insecurity, barely made it through school, and started at $9 an hour with a shovel in my hand. In this episode with Stefanie Couch on Grit Blueprint Podcast, I share the real story of how I turned struggle into strength — and what it really takes to build a life, a business, and a team worth leading. We talk about overcoming fear, why accountability is a gift, and how investing in yourself and others is the key to unlocking greatness. If you’re ready to push past fear, embrace discipline, and build something bigger than yourself, this one’s for you. Key Topics: Turning struggle and insecurity into confidence and leadership Why failure is a requirement for success Building teams and culture through accountability and ownership The power of personal development in breaking barriers Follow Stefanie @stefaniecouchofficial Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #Leadership #GritAndGrowth #ConstructionLeadership #TeamCulture #UnlockGreatness #Entrepreneurship #PersonalDevelopment #JacobEmery #NeverSettle
I used to hate change. It felt uncomfortable, messy, and like I was giving up control. But the truth is, if you want a different outcome in life, you must be willing to change your input. In this episode, I break down the paradox of why we all say we want more — better relationships, health, money, peace — yet freeze the second change shows up. I share my own turning point, the mindset shift that helped me stop waiting to “feel ready,” and why one small, consistent step forward can unlock massive transformation. If you’ve been stuck, scared, or putting off the hard decisions — this conversation is for you. Key Topics: Why we crave better outcomes but resist the steps to get there How staying “safe” keeps you stuck How micro-changes lead to massive shifts The framework I use to help people unlock greatness Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #UnlockGreatness #ChangeRequiresChange #IronAndInfrastructurePodcast #PersonalGrowth #DisciplineEqualsFreedom #SuccessHabits #MindsetShift
In this episode, I share a special conversation originally recorded on the Blue Collar BS Podcast. We dive into my journey from starting at R&R Pipeline with a shovel in hand making $9 an hour, to eventually becoming an owner. Along the way, I talk about the mentors who challenged me, the lessons I’ve learned about leadership and accountability, and how fitness and discipline have shaped my approach to business. We also get into how I’m building a culture that values clarity, responsibility, and empowering the next generation. If you’ve ever felt stuck, lacked direction, or wanted to hear real talk about what it takes to transform your life and business—this one’s for you. Key Topics: How one tough question from a mentor forced me to face reality. What it really took to rise from entry-level to leading crews to running the company. How fitness and delayed gratification shaped my discipline in life and business. Why clear expectations, accountability, and people-first leadership matter most. Follow The Blue-Collar BS Podcast on LinkedIn Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #BlueCollarLeadership #UnlockingGreatness #PipelineOfProsperity #FitnessAndBusiness #FromTheGroundUp #LeadershipMatters
In this episode, I break down one of the biggest mindset shifts I’ve ever made—choosing to live like a thermostat instead of a thermometer. For too long, I let my environment dictate how I felt and how I reacted. But when I realized I could set the temperature instead of constantly adjusting to it, everything changed. This conversation is about controlling your mindset, leading with positivity, and setting the standard for your own life. If you’re tired of reacting to negativity and ready to influence your environment instead of being shaped by it, this episode is for you. Key Topics: The difference between living as a thermometer vs. a thermostat How mindset acts as the “setting” for your daily environment Why positivity and “win or learn” thinking can shift everything Practical ways to take control instead of reacting to circumstances Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #UnlockGreatness #MindsetShift #ThermostatLiving #PositiveLeadership #IronAndInfrastructurePodcast #DisciplineEqualsFreedom #GrowthMindset
In this week’s episode, I sit down with Justin Lund — a man whose story stopped me in my tracks. From an early spark of entrepreneurship to battling a crippling addiction, facing prison time, and losing a nine-figure business to betrayal, Justin’s journey is nothing short of jaw-dropping. We dig into the frameworks that helped him get clean, the mental resilience required to survive years of legal and financial hell, and the lessons he’s now sharing to help others avoid the same mistakes. This isn’t just a story about survival — it’s about transformation, faith, and the relentless pursuit of growth no matter the obstacles. Key Topics: Overcoming addiction through frameworks and mindset shifts Losing a nine-figure business to fraud — and the fight to recover The power of consistency, standards, and small daily systems Why paying for speed and expert guidance can save years of pain Follow Justin @itsjustinlund Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructurePodcast #JustinLund #OvercomingAdversity #Entrepreneurship #MindsetMatters #Resilience #BusinessLessons #AddictionRecovery #PayForSpeed #ConsistencyWins
In this episode, I’m breaking down the truth about anxiety—what it really is, why it hits us the hardest in certain moments, and how you can stop letting it run your life. I share the exact AAA Framework I use (Acknowledge, Assess, Act) to flip anxiety from something that buries you to something that fuels you. I talk about the real accelerators that make anxiety worse—lack of preparation, losing control, and chaos—and how I’ve learned to fight back by taking action instead of avoiding it. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed before a big moment, this episode is going to give you the tools to face it head-on and walk out stronger on the other side. Key Topics: Understanding anxiety as an alarm, not an enemy The biggest accelerators of anxiety—and how to stop them The power of preparation and controlling the controllables The AAA Framework: Acknowledge, Assess, Act Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #UnlockingGreatness #OvercomeAnxiety #MindsetMatters #IronAndInfrastructure #JacobEmery #PersonalGrowth #HighPerformance #AnxietyTips #SelfDiscipline #MentalStrength
In this episode of The Iron and Infrastructure Podcast, I sit down with Corey Ford — a powerhouse in every sense of the word. Corey’s not just moving 800+ pounds on the squat rack; he’s moving mountains in life by betting on himself and starting his own coaching business. We dive deep into the mental strength behind physical feats, the leap of faith into entrepreneurship, building non-negotiable daily standards, and leading by example for the next generation. This is more than a conversation about lifting weights — it’s about lifting your life. Key Topics: Mental toughness as the foundation for physical strength Taking the leap into business despite risk and uncertainty Daily non-negotiables for growth, discipline, and performance Leading by example for family, clients, and community Follow Corey @big_c_ford40 Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #IronAndInfrastructure #CoreyFord #MentalStrength #EntrepreneurMindset #DisciplineEqualsFreedom #PowerliftingLife #LeadByExample #StrengthAndSuccess
Personal development isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the intentional work of becoming the person your future requires. In this episode, I break down my 5-Step Personal Development Pyramid (PDP) and show you how just 10 minutes a day can completely change your life. You’ll learn why consistency beats intensity, how to avoid burnout, and the mindset shift that puts you in full control of your future. This isn’t fluff—it’s a real, actionable framework that will make you face your ego, crush fear, and start building the life you want right now. Key Topics: The 5-Step Personal Development Pyramid (PDP) Why consistency is greater than intensity in personal growth The compound effect of just 10 minutes a day Facing your ego and taking full responsibility for your life Follow along @jacobemery44 Ready to UNLOCK YOUR GREATNESS? ⬇️ Download the Free Break Barriers Blueprint and learn more at jacobemery.com #UnlockGreatness #PersonalDevelopment #SelfGrowth #ConsistencyOverIntensity #MindsetShift #DailyHabits #LifeByDesign #GrowthMindset #DisciplineEqualsFreedom #InvestInYourself