Episodes

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today’s show, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Kelly Dockrell, a successful agency owner, newlywed, military spouse, DJ, and now published author, to explore what it takes to go from a leap of faith to building a thriving six-figure recruiting agency.Kelly shares her remarkable journey—one fueled by intuition, relentless faith, and perseverance. From running the streets of Miami in outside sales to answering a powerful calling that relocated her to Hawaii, Kelly opens up about starting her recruiting business from scratch, working multiple jobs to make ends meet, and enduring the highs and lows of entrepreneurship during a global pandemic. She dives into how recruiting became the ideal career as a military spouse, offering flexibility, portability, and identity no matter where in the world she might be stationed alongside her husband.You’ll hear about Kelly’s resourceful approach to growing her business—l…

Welcome back to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode, host Benjamin Mena is joined by Roheel Ahmad—entrepreneur, AI innovator, and co-founder of Full Size Barns—to dive deep into what it really takes to build a $100 million recruiting business from the ground up, all without outside investment. Roheel shares the game-changing strategies his team used to scale from a London basement to a global powerhouse in less than eight years, including how they thought—and acted—like a big business from day one, built internal leaders instead of just hiring big billers, and created a culture of shared ownership with an equity structure that changed everything.But that’s not all: As the future of recruiting collides with the power of AI, Roheel pulls back the curtain on Imagine AI, the platform born from real recruiting needs that’s set to change the way firms operate—from freeing up recruiters’ time for actual relationship-building to supercharging business development and learning. Wh…

Welcome back to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode, host Benjamin Mena sits down with the inspiring Aida C. Rodriguez, founder of Ascension Global Staffing and Executive Search. From launching her legal recruiting firm out of her living room in the middle of the pandemic to hitting $6 million in revenue and landing a spot on the Inc. 5000 list, Aida shares the real behind-the-scenes story of assembling an all-women powerhouse team. Tune in as Aida opens up about what it takes to build a successful firm in uncertain times, her unique approach to training and leading her "brunch crew," the vital role of technology, navigating setbacks, and why thinking big—and building others up—has been the secret to her success. Whether you’re looking for firsthand startup wisdom or motivation to chase your own audacious goals, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

Are you struggling to bounce back from setbacks in your recruiting career, wondering how top recruiters cultivate the resilience to thrive no matter what challenges come their way? In today’s recruiting landscape, high-pressure environments, economic fluctuations, and constant rejection can lead to burnout or even make you second-guess your place in the industry. If you're looking to build a long-lasting career, you've probably realized that mastering resilience isn't just a “nice to have”—it’s ...

On this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Ashley Woods, a powerhouse recruiter who built a $10 million recruiting desk while traveling to 45 countries around the globe. Ashley shares her journey from being recruited into the industry herself, to burning out and bouncing back, and ultimately creating a freedom-focused, remote recruiting business—all while chasing her dream of global exploration.In this conversation, Ashley reveals the strategies and systems that enabled her to be both "time rich" and highly productive on the road. She dives into the importance of having a clear vision, developing efficient processes, building strong client relationships, and being relentless about learning and outsourcing the right tasks. Ashley also opens up about facing near-bankruptcy in Bali, the lessons learned from scaling too quickly, and how becoming a digital nomad changed her mindset about happiness, wealth, and success.If you’ve ever dreamed of…

Welcome back to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode, host Benjamin Mena is joined by Sam Kuehnle for a forward-looking conversation that pulls back the curtain on recruiting’s rapidly evolving landscape. From the explosive impact of AI and automation in recruitment, to building a tech stack that’s not just modern—but truly future-proof—Ben and Sam tackle the big questions you should be thinking about right now.They dive into the nuts and bolts of proactive talent pipelining, discuss why so many recruiters underutilize their CRMs, and explore how emerging tools and smart data enrichment can help you get ahead. If you’ve ever wondered how the best in the business are preparing for the future, or you’re looking for practical advice on leveraging AI and integrating next-gen tech, this episode is packed with insights. Whether you’re a solo recruiter or scaling an agency, make sure you listen in—because the world of recruiting is changing fast, and you don’t want to be left beh…

Welcome to another episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! Today, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Zach Keen, founder of Keen Search and Staffing, to unravel the real story behind launching and scaling a successful recruiting agency—especially after facing a layoff.In this powerful conversation, Zach shares his journey from being unexpectedly let go to building a thriving business in just over a year, all while balancing life as a father of three. We dive into how he leveraged industry experience, sales savvy, and investor mentorship to get his agency off the ground, and why focusing on authenticity and a strong local market presence helped him carve out a niche in a competitive field.Zach gets candid about the challenges—and rewards—of taking the leap into entrepreneurship, what it really takes to hire the right recruiters, and how building the right systems can set your team up for success. Plus, hear his advice for new recruiters just starting out, as well as seasoned pros…

Welcome back to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this exciting episode, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Steve Lu, CEO and co-founder of pin.com, to dive deep into the game-changing world of artificial intelligence in recruiting. Together, they explore why Steve believes we’re on the brink of becoming “super recruiters” powered by AI—finally shifting away from being bogged down by clunky technology and back to what truly matters: building relationships and making impactful placements.Steve shares his journey from launching the innovative Interseller platform to now leading PIN, an AI-driven sourcing tool he describes as “LinkedIn recruiter with AI on steroids.” You’ll hear insider insights on how AI is automating tedious sourcing tasks, improving outreach quality, and even helping recruiters stand out among the noise of today’s crowded tech landscape. Benjamin and Steve get real about what AI means for the future of recruiting, why human expertise in relationship-building is only …

Welcome back to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today’s episode, host Benjamin Mena is joined by powerhouse recruiter Rich Rosen, who just had his biggest billing month ever—raking in a jaw-dropping $300,000. Despite a market many say is “soft,” Rich is here to show you exactly how the top recruiters are still crushing it.Together, Ben and Rich break down the specific steps, mindsets, and strategies that allowed Rich to defy market trends and dominate his niche—including the grind of consistent phone time, embracing AI as a recruitment sidekick, and harnessing the incredible impact of strategic LinkedIn content. From building authentic client relationships to balancing family life with high-performance recruiting, this episode is packed with no-nonsense advice, actionable takeaways, and a hefty dose of motivation for anyone serious about making 2025 their best year yet.If you’re ready to ditch the excuses, level up your results, and learn the secrets behind a record-breaking m…

Welcome to The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Trinette Cunningham, President and CEO of the National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS), to uncover the latest trends, legislation, and strategies shaping the recruiting world. Trinette brings over a decade of experience in association management and shares her candid journey into the recruiting industry, including the comical story of her own interview process with NAPS.Together, they dive deep into the importance of professional certifications for recruiters, the critical need to stay informed about changing laws and best practices, and why networking and mentorship remain game-changers in a rapidly evolving industry. You’ll also get the inside scoop on NAPS’ annual conference, how AI and mental health are impacting the landscape, and practical, next-level advice for both new and seasoned recruiters.Whether you’re just starting your recruiting career or you’ve been in the game …

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…

On this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Kaylee Estes, founder of Estes Group, for a candid conversation about her unique journey through the world of recruiting. From starting as a technical recruiter in a fast-paced agency environment, moving into in-house talent acquisition, and finally launching her own firm, Kaylee shares the lessons she’s learned every step of the way. Together, they dive into the real differences between agency and internal recruiting, what it takes to build trust as a recruiter, and how to nurture relationships in a business often known for its transactional nature. Kaylee explains her company’s approach to embedded and fractional recruiting for tech startups, and gives actionable advice for recruiters looking to evolve, scale, or even start their own agencies. Whether you’re considering a shift in your recruiting career or want to see what it takes to successfully partner with internal teams, this episode is packed wit…

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…

On this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, we dive deep into the world of recruiting sales with industry legend Tom Erb. Known for his extensive experience and expertise, Tom uncovers the secrets behind mastering the sales game in the recruiting industry. He discusses practical strategies for reinvigorating your sales efforts, even if you've let them slip, and emphasizes the importance of a structured approach to prospecting and relationship building. Tom shares insights into differentiating your services, leveraging technology, and restoring your focus on valuable client relationships. Join host Benjamin Mena as he engages with Tom on future-proof strategies to propel your recruiting business to new heights. Whether you're a seasoned recruiter or new to the industry, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you thrive. Tune in and get ready to transform your approach to recruiting sales!

Are you a recruiter looking to elevate your career and make the upcoming years your most successful yet? This episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast will provide the roadmap you need. Join host Benjamin Mena as he engages in a candid conversation with Sharon Hulce, an industry powerhouse, who runs a $1.4 million recruiting desk while leading a team and making significant community contributions. In this enlightening episode, Sharon uncovers her journey from being the first female construction re...

In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, we're diving into an inspiring story of recruitment success with David Bradley. Known as the "standard bearer" in the industry, David has achieved over $20 million in placements, consistently hitting $750,000 annually, and even surpassing $1 million in some years. Join host Benjamin Mena as he explores David's journey from humble beginnings in Canada to becoming a powerhouse in the recruiting world. Discover how David and his team of 60 have cultivated a culture of excellence, leveraging teamwork and innovation to thrive in a competitive landscape. Whether you're a new recruiter or a seasoned veteran, there's something to learn from David's unwavering dedication and strategic approach to business. Tune in and get ready to be inspired!

In this insightful episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Marc Cohen, a powerhouse in the recruitment industry who has successfully built, scaled, and sold not just one, but two recruitment companies. Together, they dive deep into Marc’s journey from his humble beginnings, through the exhilarating process of scaling businesses, and to the intricate steps involved in achieving a successful exit. Marc shares stories from his early days in the industry, his time in Australia, and his strategic move to the US. He provides valuable insights into the importance of belief in success, navigating tough industry changes, and the nuances of preparing a company for an optimal exit strategy. Whether you're a founder dreaming of your own successful exit or a recruiter looking to glean tips from a seasoned expert, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring anecdotes that are bound to enhance your understanding of the recruitment industry. Tune in t…

In this exciting episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, we're diving into the inspiring journey of Marc Cohen, a mastermind in building, scaling, and selling recruitment companies. Join host Benjamin Mena as he sits down with Marc to unravel the secrets to achieving the coveted dream of exiting a recruitment business. Marc, who has successfully exited two recruitment companies, shares his extraordinary journey from his beginnings in London to his adventures in Australia and the United States. Discover how Marc went from making $15,000 a year to earning that same amount in just four weeks in recruitment, and how he used his skills to navigate the ups and downs of the industry. With riveting stories of resilience, strategic pivots, and the power of belief, Marc provides invaluable insights for founders and recruiters aiming to make their mark in the industry. Whether you're a founder with dreams of exiting or a recruiter navigating the dynamic market, Marc's journey will inspire and in…

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In today's episode, our host Benjamin Mena engages in a thought-provoking conversation with the accomplished Belinda Kerr. Having launched and sold her own recruitment businesses twice, Belinda offers a wealth of knowledge on transitioning from a recruiter to a thriving founder and CEO. She walks us through her initial leap of faith into entrepreneurship armed with just determination and hustle, lacking a formal business plan. Despite early roadblocks, such as losing her entire database, Belinda demonstrates how resilience and learning on the go can yield remarkable results.Throughout the episode, Belinda reveals valuable insights into scaling a recruitment business, emphasizing the crucial stages from solopreneur to building a dynamic team. The discussion also touches on common blind spots founders face, highlighting the importance of delegation and systematization for sustainable growth. Her advice doesn't sto…

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…