Detailed Summary of "BuildWitt Update #3 – DT 343" Podcast Episode
Date Released: June 2, 2025
Podcast Information:
- Title: Dirt Talk by BuildWitt
- Host: Aaron (BuildWitt)
- Description: A weekly dive into Dirt World issues, featuring discussions, listener Q&As, and interviews with industry leaders.
1. Introduction: Welcome to BuildWitt Update #3
In the third installment of the BuildWitt Update series, host Aaron delves into several key developments happening behind the scenes at BuildWitt. Titled "Extreme Ownership AI and Babies," this episode sets the stage for discussions ranging from training programs to leadership development, event announcements, and internal business strategies.
2. Launch of the On-the-Job Training Series
Aaron kicks off the episode by announcing the launch of a new on-the-job training series. This initiative features Jake Pico and Randy Blunt visiting reputable Arizona-based contractors such as Sunland and Rummel. The series showcases real-world applications of earth moving, paving, crack sealing, and more.
Aaron [02:00]: "The fun thing about creating training content that doesn't otherwise exist is that we can do it our way. So not everything has to be nice and tidy, which is a lot of fun."
This hands-on approach allows BuildWitt to present practical examples, providing immediate context that purely educational materials might lack. By experimenting with various formats, including both scripted and spontaneous content, the team ensures that the training remains engaging and informative.
3. Building the Largest Educational Video Library in the Dirt World
Aaron proudly shares that BuildWitt now boasts approximately 2,000 videos available to their Build with Improve customers. This extensive library positions BuildWitt as a premier educational resource in the Dirt World, continually expanding with new content each week.
Aaron [05:45]: "We have what now I think is the largest educational library, video based library in the dirt world, which is very exciting."
This commitment to creating diverse and high-quality training materials underscores BuildWitt's dedication to supporting industry professionals through comprehensive educational resources.
4. Introduction of the "BuildWitt Leaders" Leadership Training Program
Addressing the need for internal leadership development, Aaron introduces BuildWitt Leaders, the company's inaugural leadership training program. Rather than outsourcing to expensive firms, BuildWitt embraces a cost-effective, in-house approach aligned with their core value of simplicity.
Aaron [08:20]: "All right, what is the simplest leadership development program we could put together for our people? And that is what we came up with here."
Program Highlights:
- Mandatory Participation: Employees with direct reports must enroll, though participation is open to all.
- Quarterly Focus on Foundational Books: Each quarter highlights a different influential leadership book, starting with "Extreme Ownership".
- Structured Reading and Discussions: Teams read selected chapters monthly and engage in hour-long discussions led initially by executive team members.
Aaron [11:50]: "When has extreme ownership come up in your life outside of work, in work? When has it worked well? When have you not taken extreme ownership?"
This initiative fosters a culture of continuous learning and leadership excellence, encouraging employees to internalize and apply critical leadership principles both professionally and personally.
5. Upcoming ARIAT Dirtworld Summit in Dallas, Texas
Aaron promotes the ARIAT Dirtworld Summit, scheduled for November 5th-7th in Dallas. Aiming to be a premier industry event, the summit is expected to attract 1,500 industry leaders from approximately 500 companies.
Aaron [14:10]: "If you're a leader looking to elevate yourself, your team, looking for like minded individuals that are hungry, then look no further than the ARIAT Dirtworld Summit."
Notable Speakers Include:
- Jesse Cole (Savannah Bananas)
- James Clear (Atomic Habits)
- Kim Scott (Radical Candor)
- Mark Miller (Chick-fil-A Leadership)
- Tim Grover (Michael Jordan's Trainer)
Participants can use code AARON10 for a 10% discount on registrations, emphasizing the summit's value with a world-class lineup not found elsewhere.
6. Leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) at BuildWitt
AI remains a hot topic, and BuildWitt is actively exploring its integration into their operations. Aaron acknowledges mixed feelings about AI but recognizes its inevitability and potential benefits.
Aaron [17:35]: "Whether we like it or not, AI is already either using us or we're using AI, depending on the platform and where we are on the Internet."
Key Points Discussed:
- Positive Applications: Utilizing AI tools to enhance product development, increase efficiency, and accelerate iterative processes.
- Concerns: Data privacy issues, specifically regarding platforms that may misuse the information inputted by users.
- Strategic Decisions: Evaluating which AI platforms to adopt, setting usage guidelines, and staying ahead in the AI landscape.
Aaron emphasizes the importance of understanding and responsibly leveraging AI to build better products and serve customers effectively.
7. Update on John Deere Workshop and Strategic Focus on the Dirtworld Summit
BuildWitt's John Deere workshop registrations have closed, with around 100 attendees expected. Aaron reveals that this will be the final workshop for the year, as the company shifts its focus exclusively to the upcoming Dirtworld Summit.
Aaron [21:00]: "This will be our final workshop. We're going to do everything to make it absolutely extraordinary. But after this, we can go 100% in on the ARIAT Dirtworld Summit."
By concentrating resources and attention on the summit, BuildWitt aims to elevate it to one of the best industry events in the United States, building on the lessons learned from previous years.
8. Sales Team Update: Maternity/Paternity Leave Policies
Aaron discusses BuildWitt's generous maternity and paternity leave policies, which offer several weeks off for new dads and a minimum of three months for new moms, all paid.
Aaron [23:15]: "It's just the right thing to do. And while awesome, it's tricky to balance when it happens because we're small, we're lean."
Despite the challenges of managing a lean team during key personnel's leave, Aaron expresses satisfaction with the policy's implementation. Recently, the return of two sales team members boosts the team's capacity back to 100%, positively impacting business operations.
Aaron [24:40]: "I have never once regretted our maternity paternity leave policy. I hope it gets better and better as time goes on."
This approach underscores BuildWitt's commitment to supporting its employees during significant life events while navigating the operational complexities of a small business.
9. Adjustments to the Billing Model for Enhanced Customer Satisfaction
Recognizing inefficiencies in the existing billing structure for a subset of customers, BuildWitt has decided to transition these accounts to a standard pricing model. This proactive measure aims to save both the company and its customers money.
Aaron [26:30]: "We're proactively now trying to evaluate our model. What works, what doesn't work, what works for us, what works for our customers."
This shift reflects BuildWitt's broader strategy of focusing on software development and refining business models to better serve their clientele and streamline operations.
10. Conclusion and Call to Action
Wrapping up the episode, Aaron reiterates BuildWitt's commitment to transparency and invites listeners to reach out with comments or questions.
Aaron [28:15]: "Transparency wins is a value for a reason. Write me at aaron@buildwit.com. Would love to hear from you."
He encourages engagement and feedback, reinforcing the company's dedication to open communication and continuous improvement.
Final Note: This episode of Dirt Talk by BuildWitt offers a comprehensive overview of the company's recent initiatives, strategic shifts, and upcoming events. From expanding educational resources and fostering leadership development to embracing AI and refining business models, BuildWitt demonstrates a proactive and employee-centric approach to growth and industry leadership. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the content, participate in upcoming events, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue shaping the Dirt World.