Mindset Episodes

Welcome back to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode, host Benjamin Mena is joined once again by Keely Flood, a seasoned sales coach and consultant for staffing and recruiting firms. Forget the hype around the latest tech and AI tools—today’s show is all about cutting through the noise and getting real about what it takes to succeed at your recruiting desk. Benjamin and Keely get honest about the dangers of shiny object syndrome that plagues so many recruiters—jumping from one new tool or platform to the next, hoping for a magic bullet. Instead, Keely shares proven systems and mindsets that drive real results: prioritizing strategic planning, consistent activity, quality conversations, and building habits that compound over time. Whether you’re new to the industry, rebuilding your desk from scratch, or feeling overwhelmed by tech overwhelm, this episode will give you a grounded, actionable roadmap to move your recruiting business forward—no silver bullets, just proven funda…

Welcome to a brand new episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! Today, host Benjamin Mena welcomes back recruitment expert James Blackwell to dive deep into the game-changing trends shaping the industry as we head towards 2025. In this forward-looking conversation, Benjamin and James break down the rise of AI Talent Partners, the evolving demands of clients, and why the days of being a “Superman” recruiter—doing it all yourself—are numbered. James shares his unfiltered take on what it REALLY takes to crush it in recruitment today, from adopting the right mindset to leveraging cutting-edge tech like Clay AI and remote assistants. You’ll hear insights into the three major shifts in recruitment history, why traditional agency models are getting swallowed up by automation, and how the top agency founders are adapting to stay ahead of the curve. Plus, they explore practical strategies for scaling your recruiting business—without burning out—through delegation, smart outsourcing, and b…

Welcome to another episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Andy Roads, founder of High Altitude Recruiting, for a no-fluff conversation on what it really takes to launch your own recruiting firm and land clients right out of the gate. Andy shares his journey from grinding it out at a high-turnover recruitment agency, to moving internal as an HR generalist, and eventually spending a decade at a boutique search firm—only to find that his anticipated “takeover” as the next leader was not in the cards. Instead of going back to square one, Andy decided to carve out his own path, and what happened next is nothing short of inspiring. We dig deep into Andy’s first three months of business: his high-impact outreach strategies, the creative offers that got potential clients saying “yes” immediately, and how he leveraged his personal network and reputation in the food & beverage and aviation industries to build momentum from day one. Andy …

Are you ready to discover how relentless perseverance and a growth mindset can turn $12,000 in revenue—and zero connections—into a multi-million dollar staffing business in the heart of America? For recruiters, staffing entrepreneurs, or anyone navigating the challenges of being an immigrant in business, Ranjith Ravula’s journey is a living example of what’s possible against seemingly impossible odds. If you’re tired of the same old stories about overnight success and are looking for real, actio...

Welcome to another episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today’s conversation, host Benjamin Mena sits down with powerhouse recruiter Katherine Jerald to dive deep into what it really takes to thrive—and scale—in the recruiting world. Katherine’s journey is anything but ordinary: from her earliest days helping out in her father’s recruiting office at just 12 years old, to building her own highly successful search firm focused on aerospace, defense, and the GovCon space. You’ll hear Katherine share how she went from a career crossroads to pulling in $885,000 her very first year in business, the game-changing confidence she developed along the way, and the story behind a single LinkedIn DM that landed her a $261,000 deal. She breaks down the strategies that actually work for business development in 2024 (spoiler: it isn’t email), why she credits in-person conferences and her own podcast as powerful BD tools, and how being part of The Pinnacle Society boosted her billings by a wh…

In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Admiral Jim Waters to dive deep into the world of Navy recruiting and the monumental task of leading 3,500 recruiters. Discover how Admiral Waters, a seasoned submarine officer, transitioned to his role as commander of Navy Recruiting Command and faced the challenges of adapting a massive organization to the changing landscape of military recruitment. From innovative strategies to enhance efficiency to cultural shifts that emphasize the pivotal role of the line recruiter, Admiral Waters shares invaluable insights into transforming Navy recruitment into a more agile and effective force. Whether you're in the military or the private sector, the lessons and strategies discussed here offer a masterclass in navigating large-scale organizational change. Tune in to learn how these efforts not only secure the future of the Navy but also profoundly impact the lives of young recruits, shaping a new generation of s…

Welcome to The Elite Recruiter Podcast, where we explore the journey of individuals who have transformed their lives and careers through the power of recruiting. In this exciting episode, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Randee Staats, who shares his inspirational story of triumph and resilience. Imagine having just $500 in your bank account, maxed-out credit cards, and looming payday loans. Randee found himself facing immense financial challenges but refused to give up. Instead, he drew a line in the sand and sought coaching to turn his life around. Within a year, he went from financial despair to billing an astounding $800,000. Join us as Randee unpacks his blueprint for financial freedom, detailing how he rebuilt his business with no prior agency experience. We delve into his strategies, the mindset shifts required, and how a simple point-based gamification system revitalized his approach to recruiting. This episode is a testament to the boundless opportunities recruiting offers i…

In this compelling episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena engages in an inspiring conversation with Caitlin Burke, a former professional athlete turned top recruiter. Join us as we delve into Caitlin's incredible journey from the sports field to the competitive world of recruiting. Discover how her mindset, grit, and unwavering determination not only propelled her to success but also guided her through formidable personal challenges, including overcoming cancer and paralysis. Caitlin shares how her competitive spirit and love for recruiting became instrumental in her healing process. Listen in to learn about her strategies for success, the importance of setting intentions, and how she leverages her athletic mindset to thrive in the recruiting industry. Whether you're a recruiter seeking motivation or someone fascinated by stories of resilience, this episode is sure to inspire and empower you to conquer your own challenges and achieve your goals.

In this episode of the Elite Recruiter Podcast, we delve into the formidable journey of Carson Dimond, a trailblazing entrepreneur who defied traditional career paths by launching his recruiting firm while still in college. Host Benjamin Mena is joined by Carson as they explore the nuances of his dynamic approach to business development and client relationships, particularly in the niche space of E-commerce recruiting. Discover how Carson has mastered the art of referrals, the importance of executing over strategizing, and the innovative ways he stays motivated and connected with his network. This conversation promises to redefine your perspective on what it means to hustle and succeed in the modern recruiting landscape. Whether you're a seasoned recruiter or a newcomer, Carson's story and insights offer invaluable lessons for anyone looking to thrive in 2025 and beyond. Tune in for a narrative of ambition, action, and authenticity, and learn why the mantra "stop strategizing, start d…

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Elite Recruiter Podcast! Today, we delve into the world of government contracting and extreme ownership in recruiting with our special guest, Brad Wilson, the founder and owner of STEM Solutions. In this episode, Brad shares his journey from juggling a brand-new baby and a fledgling business to making strategic shifts when the market drastically changed. With host Benjamin Mena, Brad discusses the intricacies of government contracting, the importance of security clearances, and the nuances of developing trustworthy client relationships. Plus, Brad opens up about the mindset and tactical changes that helped him thrive amid a highly competitive and shifting market. Whether you're a seasoned recruiter or new to the field, you won't want to miss Brad's invaluable insights and practical advice on navigating the challenging landscape of government contracting recruitment. Tune in to The Elite Recruiter Podcast the top podacst for recruiters for a d…

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! Today, our host, Benjamin Mena, is joined by the bold and unorthodox recruiter, Shaun Hervey, who shares his incredible journey from a college musician to a dynamic recruiting professional. Shaun reveals how a chance encounter at an airport kiosk led him to a recruitment career at Adecco that began with the challenges of door-to-door sales and evolved into impactful recruiting roles. In this episode, we dive deep into Shaun's innovative strategies, including his success with creative video marketing on TikTok, the importance of genuine communication, and the power of leveraging personal networks. Shaun's candid advice on dealing with rejection, maintaining professional relationships, and balancing personal and professional life offers invaluable insights for new and seasoned recruiters alike. Join us as we explore Shaun's entrepreneurial journey with his own recruiting firm, Arkham Talent, and uncover the key ta…

Welcome to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today’s episode titled "Secrets to Scaling: Mike Williams on Recruiting Success, Startup Challenges, and Building a Rockstar Team," host Benjamin Mena sits down with Mike Williams, a top biller turned billing manager who has successfully scaled his recruitment company. We'll dive into Mike’s journey from being the sole engineering recruiter at his firm to expanding his team significantly in just 18 months. He shares valuable insights on managing the challenges of business growth, developing winning hiring strategies, and the importance of training and mentorship. Mike also discusses personal anecdotes, the significant impact of maintaining a positive mindset, and the role of the Pinnacle Society in his career. Tune in to learn the secrets behind Mike’s success and gather actionable advice for scaling your own recruitment business!

Welcome to The Elite Recruiter Podcast with your host Benjamin Mena! In today's episode, we have an extraordinary conversation with Adrian Byra, who shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to building a $41 million recruitment powerhouse in just five years. Adrian reveals the secrets behind his success, including the development of repeatable processes, the strategic use of automation and outsourcing, and the critical importance of data management. He emphasizes the need for a supportive structure that evolves with the team, and how cultivating a company culture focused on individual growth can prevent high performers from seeking opportunities elsewhere. Join us as Adrian delves into maintaining authenticity while scaling, the balance between value proposition and profit, and his unique approach to training and continuous improvement. Learn how he tackles recruiter burnout by turning his team into business owners, aligning personal aspirations with organizational g…

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! Today’s episode, "From Scarcity to Success: Grace Marlin’s Roadmap to Becoming the Top Recruiter in Your Agency," features an in-depth conversation with Grace Marlin, a seasoned recruiter and business owner. Grace reveals how she transitioned from earning just $12,000 in her first year to becoming a top performer in her field. She’ll share her invaluable advice on applying the 80/20 rule, the importance of building a high-quality network, and viewing your recruitment desk as a business. Discover how Grace navigated the challenges of the industry, dealt with setbacks, and the critical mindset shifts that propelled her to success. Whether you're a new recruiter or a seasoned professional, Grace’s journey and expert tips are sure to inspire and guide you to higher levels of achievement. Stay tuned as our host, Benjamin Mena, delves into the nuances of making tough decisions, managing client expectations, and harnessing…

Welcome to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today's episode, titled "Why RecOps is Crucial for Modern Recruiting Success," your host Benjamin Mena sits down with Jeremy Lyons, a veteran in the recruiting operations space. Join us as Jeremy dives into the nuanced distinctions between recruiting operations (rec ops) and people operations, unraveling their unique approaches to employee management and layoffs. We'll venture into the interplay between rec ops and various departments like marketing and legal, as well as the internal power struggles with HR that are reshaping, thanks to advancements in AI. Jeremy shares his valuable insights on the critical importance of specialized skills in rec ops, the strategic use of data, and the survival tactics needed to thrive amidst budget constraints. You'll also hear Jeremy's fascinating comparisons between rec ops and Olympic gymnastics, and his predictions on the future leadership roles awaiting rec ops professionals. For recruiters aspiri…

Welcome back to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! I'm your host, Benjamin Mena, and in today's episode, we have a truly inspiring guest, Sharon, who brings a wealth of experience and insight from her 26-year journey in the recruiting industry. Sharon started her recruiting business from home after the birth of her son and has since grown it into an Inc 5000 recognized company, The Finders. Throughout our conversation, she emphasizes the importance of building trust through genuine passion, setting big goals, and taking decisive action without over-complicating the process. In this episode, Sharon delves into topics that resonate deeply with both new recruits and seasoned professionals. She discusses the significance of understanding your "why," leveraging a supportive network, and balancing business development with recruitment. Sharon also touches on her experiences adapting her business amidst life changes and industry shifts, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and adaptability.…

Welcome to the Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today's riveting episode, "From Zero to $100,000 Months with Kyle Rubattino and Joe Walsh," host Benjamin Mena delves into the inspiring journey of two standout recruiters, Kyle and Joe. Kyle discusses the strategic importance of recognizing one's strengths and weaknesses, sharing his experience of hiring his own boss for continuous learning during his time at Sixth Sense. Joe and Kyle met earlier this year through a startup-focused business, and despite initial financial hesitations, Kyle joined forces with Joe after recognizing their complementary skills. Together, they founded the Mural Group, a firm dedicated to early-stage startups from seed stage to Series B/C, offering innovative recruitment solutions and process improvements. With backgrounds in companies like Uber and Sixth Sense, both guests bring invaluable insights on scaling businesses and maintaining strong operational processes. They emphasize the importance of deep clien…

Welcome to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today's episode, "From Navy Veteran to Recruitment Owner: Micah Clay's Journey to Success," we delve into the inspiring story of Micah Clay, a distinguished Navy veteran who transitioned into the recruitment industry, ultimately founding his own successful recruitment firm. Hosted by Benjamin Mena, our conversation covers an array of topics crucial for budding recruiters and business owners alike. We'll explore Micah's innovative approach to networking and career planning, his reliance on influential books like "Breakthrough 2.0" and "$100 Million Offers," and the core values that have driven his success—transparency, ethics, and respect for clients. Micah candidly shares the challenges and triumphs of the recruiting world, the immense impact of mentorship, and his strategies for content creation and audience engagement. In this episode, you'll discover how Micah leverages his military resilience, embraces niche markets, and builds long…

Welcome back to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Dante Nino, a dynamic young agency owner who has mastered the art of scaling recruitment teams and boosting billings dramatically. Host Benjamin Mena kicks off the conversation by praising Dante’s incredible journey and actionable insights that have helped recruiters elevate their earnings from $200-300k to an impressive $500-700k. Throughout the episode, Dante shares his blueprint for success—from nurturing strong client relationships and investing in solid infrastructure to prioritizing staff motivation and adapting to remote work. He discusses the trials and triumphs of recruitment, the strategic importance of content creation, and the crucial lessons he's learned in hiring and developing high-performing teams. Whether you’re an agency owner looking to scale, a recruiter navigating the industry’s complexities, or simply eager to learn from a top performer, this episode is packed with…

Welcome to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today's captivating episode, "From Sports to Recruiting: Jay Veniard's Secrets to Achieving Long-Term Success," our host Benjamin Mena sits down with the extraordinary Jay Veniard. As a former professional athlete turned veteran recruiter, Jay brings a wealth of knowledge about building a successful career in recruiting, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness, critical tasks, and effective client engagement. Jay delves into the mindset required for excellence—highlighting concepts like "bitch voice" versus "boss voice," the significance of visualization, and the power of a strong, proactive self-talk to combat burnout and negativity. He draws intriguing parallels between sports and recruiting, advocating for a focus on foundational activities such as phone calls and meaningful in-person interactions. Listeners will gain insights on enhancing performance through daily targets, role-playing exercises, and the innovative 'game tape…

Welcome to another episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! Today, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Tyler Rossi, the resilient and determined founder of American Dream Search. Tyler's journey from receiving a layoff notice while his wife was 32 weeks pregnant to earning over $200K in just six months is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, Tyler shares his blueprint for recruitment success, from his strategic use of LinkedIn automation and relationship-building with industry leaders to the importance of niching down in the steel industry. You'll hear about his unique challenges, including balancing fatherhood, startup pressures, and overcoming personal adversities, all while building a profitable business. Whether you're an experienced recruiter or just starting, Tyler's insights on perseverance, specialization, and leveraging technology are invaluable. Tune in to discover how you can replicate his success and thrive in the recruiting world!

Welcome back to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today's episode, titled "Female Founders: Building Your Recruiting Business with Helen Plumridge," we dive deep into the world of recruitment entrepreneurship with the inspiring Helen Plumridge, founder of Hyper Consulting. Our conversation covers the critical elements of personal and business development, the importance of understanding financial and compliance frameworks, and the structured approach needed for sustainable growth. Helen shares her journey from starting her career as a temp in the recruitment industry to founding her own successful business, along with the challenges and rewards of being a female founder in a male-dominated space. We explore the hurdles women face in recruitment entrepreneurship, from mindset and confidence issues to lifestyle and financial risks, and Helen provides practical advice on overcoming these obstacles. Together, we discuss utilizing tools like ChatGPT for efficient content creation, the …

Welcome to The Elite Recruiter Podcast, hosted by Benjamin Mena. In this episode titled "How to Become a Magnetic Recruiter by Niching Down," we dive into the compelling journey of Parker Chaney. From his humble beginnings to becoming an influential recruiter, Parker shares how the inspiring tenacity of his mother, a Chick-fil-A franchise owner, instilled in him the belief in limitless possibilities. Parker attributes much of his success to niching down within the freight brokerage sector, significantly boosting his business by targeting clients in dire need with substantial budgets. Leveraging LinkedIn as a powerful networking and content creation tool, Parker has built a brand that attracts clients through inbound interest, virtually eliminating the need for traditional outbound sales efforts. Join us as Parker unfolds his strategies for creating a magnetic recruiting presence, the vital role of specialization, and the tech tools that streamline his operations. With practical …

Welcome to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today's episode, "Blueprint to Crushing It in Recruitment: Harnessing Tech, Mindset, and Community with the Syndicate," we're thrilled to have Neil Lebovits, David Stephen Patterson, and Daniel Miller join our host, Benjamin Mena. Get ready to dive into a treasure trove of insights and strategies for recruitment success. We'll explore how recruiters can broaden their horizons and unlock additional revenue streams, the crucial role of investing in essential recruiting tools, and the game-changing impact of platform integration. Our guests will also share a wealth of knowledge on overcoming mindset challenges, leveraging proactive communication, and the pivotal significance of community support. From advice for new and seasoned recruiters, to practical tech tool recommendations and industry-specific strategies, this episode is packed with actionable tips and real-world examples. Plus, we’ll discuss the benefits of forming supportive netwo…