Chad isn't just a businessman; he is the founder of the Fallen Linemen Organization, a non-profit dedicated to honoring the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice and supporting the families they left behind. We go behind the scenes to explore the raw pressures of owning a contractor company, the changing culture of the trade, and why safety must be rooted in brotherhood rather than just a rulebook.
In this episode, we discuss:
The Hollywood Journey: Behind the scenes of 'Life on the Line' and the mission to show the world what the trade really takes.
The Fallen Linemen Organization: The inspiration behind the non-profit and how the industry can better support its own.
Industry Evolution: From the "wild west" days of Red Simpson to modern contractor culture.
Leadership & Trust: Why the foundation of every successful crew is built on character and looking out for the person next to you.
The Mental Toll: Discussing the real pressures of the job and the responsibility that comes with the trade.
Whether you’re a journeyman with 30 years experience, an apprentice just starting your journey, or an industry executive, this conversation is a tribute to the people who keep the lights on.
00:00 - Intro
01:42 - Roots With Red Simpson
04:10 - Mentors And Lessons
09:08 - Safety Versus Production
13:45 - Starting T&D
18:27 - Culture And Caring
24:44 - Making A Lineman Movie
29:35 - Travolta And Public Impact
32:06 - Ice Storm Tragedy
37:11 - Memorial Vision Begins
38:49 - High Voltage Rose Story
42:56 - Safety And Gut Checks
44:16 - Grief And Support Mission
46:57 - Future Of The Trade
50:07 - Culture Mental Health Drugs
53:32 - Rapid Fire Round
1:01:21 - Legacy Unity And Farewell
Support the Cause:
Learn more about the Fallen Linemen Organization and how you can help at: https://fallenlinemen.org
Connect with PowerGridTalks:
Website: https://powergridtalks.com
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