Strong Conversations
Welcome to Strong Conversations hosted by Simpson Strong-Tie where we bring partners, colleagues, innovators and leaders together for insightful conversations. We dive into the subjects and issues that we all face — forging stronger connections and relationships along the way.
In this episode of Strong Conversations, Russ Kathrein, Vice President of Lumber & Building Materials at Do it Best, shares lessons from a lifetime in the building materials industry—from growing up in a family-owned lumber yard to leading one of the industry’s largest cooperative organizations. Through stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and leadership, Russ explains why relationships, community, and adaptability remain the foundation of long-term success.
In this episode:
– Why reputation is your greatest asset
– The keys to building a successful independent lumber business
– How community relationships create lasting competitive advantages
– Leadership lessons earned through adversity, persistence, and experience
– The unforgettable story behind Russ’s appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show

Women in Construction
Welcome to our podcast on Women in Construction hosted by Simpson Strong-Tie, a leading manufacturer and technology services company of engineered building products in the residential and commercial space. In this podcast we take a closer look at the women who make up the residential construction industry. We are going to have an open discussion about how we got here, what challenges us, motivates us and what makes us succeed. In each episode we will be joined by three guests to get their perspective on what it’s like to be in this field. We will talk about how women can effect change and create an environment where other women want to be a part of.
How We Got Here
In our “How We Got Here” series, we talk to leaders in the building industry about how they got to where they are. Some of us are born into the building industry. Some of us fell into it. And some of us took a few detours to find our place. Our guests share stories and insights of not only how they got here but more importantly what made them stay.
Building the Brand
In our “Building the Brand” series, we talk to leaders and entrepreneurs in the building industry about what it takes to start a venture or business and build it into a brand. We talk about taking a chance on yourself and the determination and resilience that it takes to stay the course. Our guests share with us what it means to be a heart led leader and the importance of not just building the brand but building a culture that your employees can thrive in.