Dirt Talk Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Another Base Hit (BuildWitt Update #12) – DT 361
Host: Aaron Witt, Founder of BuildWitt
Release Date: August 4, 2025
Introduction: Emphasizing Consistent Progress
In the latest episode of Dirt Talk, Aaron Witt sets the tone by discussing the importance of steady, incremental progress over dramatic breakthroughs. He likens the company’s recent activities to "base hits" rather than "home runs," underscoring a philosophy of consistency.
“[00:12] ...it is way more about consistent forward motion. [...] we're just looking for base hits and we're looking for that consistency.”
— Aaron Witt
Successful Customer Migration to Build It Improve
A significant milestone this week was the seamless migration of the first 15 customers from the old Build with Training platform to the newly launched Build It Improve product. This transition included a major client with 2,000 accounts, marking a crucial step towards phasing out the legacy system.
“[00:45] ...we successfully migrated our first group of 15 customers from our old build with training product to the new build with improve product.”
— Aaron Witt
Clarifying BuildWitt’s Business Focus
Aaron addresses past ambiguities in BuildWitt’s business model, attributing some confusion to the company’s shifting focus over time. To streamline operations and ensure future success, BuildWitt has divested from the marketing business to concentrate solely on software development.
“[03:00] ...if we are to succeed, ... we have to clarify what it is we do and why we do it.”
— Aaron Witt
Evolution from Build with Training to Build It Improve
Eighteen months ago, BuildWitt evaluated its existing platform and chose to rebuild from the ground up rather than iterating on the original product. This decision led to the creation of Build It Improve, focusing on daily improvements and better architecture to support future growth.
“[04:30] ...we decided for option two, that was build an entirely new product alongside the existing product.”
— Aaron Witt
Promotion of the Ariat Dirt World Summit
Aaron promotes the upcoming Ariat Dirt World Summit scheduled for November 5-7 in Dallas, Texas. The event, now in its third year, is poised to attract approximately 1,500 industry leaders from 500 companies. The lineup includes notable speakers such as Jesse Cole, James Clear, Kim Scott, Mark Miller, and Tim Grover.
“[06:15] ...this is definitely not for you. But if you're a leader looking to elevate yourself, ... join us at the Ariat Dirt World Summit.”
— Aaron Witt
He also mentions a promotional discount code for potential attendees:
“[07:45] ...use code AARON10 for 10% off any registrations.”
— Aaron Witt
Q3 Rocks: Strategic Focus and Team Alignment
BuildWitt has implemented a "rocks and subrocks" system for quarterly objectives. For Q3, the company has identified three major goals (rocks) essential for advancing the business. Each team assesses their role in achieving these goals and sets corresponding subrocks to ensure alignment and execution.
“[09:30] ...we set three rocks for the quarter Q3. These are the three really big things that need to happen this quarter to get our business to the next level.”
— Aaron Witt
This structured approach has already yielded clarity and progress within the teams.
Development of Leadership and Communication Training
Recognizing a generational shift in the construction industry, BuildWitt is developing training videos focused on effective discussions and leadership skills. With many seasoned leaders retiring, there is a pressing need to equip new leaders with the necessary communication and management skills.
“[12:20] ...a vast majority of our training videos are soft skills and leadership. [...] effective discussions is key in helping these leaders and these crews get ahead.”
— Aaron Witt
Marketing and Sales Efforts: Driving Summit Success
BuildWitt’s marketing and sales teams are intensively promoting the Dirt World Summit, achieving record ticket sales for summer and fall. The event's growth is crucial for the company's cash flow, which supports ongoing operations and future growth initiatives.
“[15:10] ...we've already sold more tickets by summer this year than the previous two years combined, which is fantastic.”
— Aaron Witt
Aaron emphasizes the importance of perseverance in building the event's momentum, aiming for it to sell out by October.
“[17:55] ...we are putting our sales team, our marketing team to work on making that happen through summer, into fall and then into fall.”
— Aaron Witt
Conclusion: Steady Execution and Future Outlook
Aaron concludes the update by expressing gratitude for the team's disciplined execution and the listeners' support. He reiterates the company's commitment to consistent progress and looks forward to continued growth in both their software platform and the upcoming summit.
“[20:30] ...that's what happened this week. Again, not a lot of drama, but that means everybody's executing accordingly. And I'm very grateful for that.”
— Aaron Witt
He invites listeners to reach out with questions or comments, reinforcing an open line of communication.
“[22:10] ...if you have questions, comments, anytime, send me an email. Aaronilwood.com would love to hear from you.”
— Aaron Witt
Final Thoughts
"Another Base Hit" serves as a comprehensive update on BuildWitt’s progress, strategic shifts, and upcoming initiatives. Aaron Witt effectively communicates the company's focus on steady growth, product enhancement, and community building within the construction and mining industries. Listeners gain valuable insights into BuildWitt’s operational strategies and future plans, making it a must-listen for industry stakeholders.
Stay Dirty, Everybody!
