Episodes

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...

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…

On this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena is joined by Allie Millbrath to delve into the intricacies of client delivery in the recruitment industry. Allie, who leads the Quinn Roberts Company, shares insights into her journey of becoming a top recruiter, crafting a successful recruiting business, and the transformative power of systems in achieving reliable client delivery. From discussing her initial steps in the recruiting world to the delicate balance of managing a family and retiring her husband, Allie underscores the importance of building genuine relationships and maintaining a consistent process. Throughout the conversation, Allie sheds light on how recruiters can overcome struggles, embrace mentorship, and harness the power of authenticity and connection to thrive in what she describes as a life-changing industry. Tune in to hear her story and uncover valuable strategies that could redefine how you approach recruiting in 2025 and beyond.

Welcome to this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, where we uncover the strategies that empower staffing and recruiting companies to thrive in today's competitive market. I'm your host, Benjamin Mena, and I'm excited to be joined by Francis Larson, the founder and CEO of Ascen—a company revolutionizing back office solutions for staffing agencies with its cutting-edge employer of record services. In this enlightening conversation, Francis shares insights gained from working with a diverse range of staffing companies, including how those positioned for explosive growth are finding success. We explore the importance of focus in choosing niches, the transformative impact of AI, and actionable strategies to navigate temporary staffing. Whether you're seeking to break into the U.S. market, leverage AI tools, or simply want to know what's working in the industry, Francis's expertise is invaluable. If you're ready to make 2025 your year of abundance, tune in to discover the secrets…

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.

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode, our host Benjamin Mena is joined by David Paffenholz, co-founder of Juicebox, the creators of PeopleGPT. We're diving deep into the impact of AI agents in the recruiting space and how they're driving efficiency and profitability. Discover how AI technology is reshaping the recruiting landscape, enabling small teams of recruiters to achieve incredible revenue milestones. With new advancements in AI, especially in 2025, tools and strategies have never been more intertwined with the recruiting craft. We explore the innovations, opportunities, and even challenges facing the industry today. Whether you're a recruiting agency owner or an individual recruiter, this conversation reveals insights you can't afford to miss if you want to stay ahead in the game. So, listen in as David and Benjamin discuss the future of AI in recruiting, tips for maximizing output, and strategies for leveraging the latest tech to …

In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, hosted by Benjamin Mena, we are joined by Sean Anderson, a renowned expert who has successfully trained over 7,000 recruiters across 600 agencies. In our conversation, we'll delve into the innovative 20:10:5 methodology that has revolutionized revenue growth for recruiters. Sean shares his journey from starting in recruitment to becoming a leader in personal branding, focusing on how recruiters can maximize LinkedIn as a powerful tool for connection and engagement. We'll explore insights on the evolving landscape with the adoption of AI, the contrasts between UK and US recruiters, and how breaking old myths can pave the way for future success. Get ready to uncover strategies to truly thrive and make 2025 your year of abundance in recruitment.

In this compelling episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena invites Rashin Keller, the accomplished owner and CEO of the Keller Group, to share her transformative journey in the recruiting industry. Rashin, a dynamic leader recognized for establishing a thriving executive search firm in Phoenix, Arizona, delves into how she successfully transitioned from working in a traditional agency to founding her own company. With an inspiring backstory centered around her commitment to helping others, Rashin explores the pivotal strategies she's employed to dominate and grow within her niche market. From building candidate relationships that drive business development to fostering a unique 1099 business model that enhances flexibility and motivation among her team, Rashin's insights offer invaluable guidance for recruiters aspiring to turn conversations into contracts and achieve substantial growth in 2025. Listen in as Rashin and Benjamin discuss the power of candidate-driven …

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…

In this exciting episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena invites back one of the podcast's most impactful guests, Clark Willcox, to share insights into supercharging your recruitment desk with LinkedIn. Together, they unravel the potential of LinkedIn as a tool to transform a $120,000 recruiting desk to a $600,000 powerhouse through strategic use of inbound leads and authentic selling. They dive deep into the importance of recognizing the value recruiters bring to the table and how simplifying processes can make 2025 a year of abundance. Clark emphasizes the art of leveraging LinkedIn content and networking to generate six-figure revenues and offers practical steps to build a robust network in just a year. Whether you're new to recruiting or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with insights to help you craft your success story. Join us as we discuss the importance of self-awareness, ownership, and action in the recruitment industry, and get ready to make this yea…

Welcome to another insightful episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast! In this episode titled "Tax Secrets Every Recruiter Must Know to Save Thousands," host Benjamin Mena dives into the essential topic of taxes with expert guest Michael Napolitano, a partner at Citron Cooperman and a seasoned professional with over 12 years of experience in the staffing and executive recruiting space. Michael is here to unravel the complexities of accounting and taxation, offering recruiters invaluable insights into what they should be doing with their finances. From understanding compliance and the implications of 1099 classifications to insights on selling your recruiting business, Michael shares tips and best practices to navigate the financial aspects of the recruiting world while keeping things engaging and accessible. Whether you're an agency owner or an aspiring recruiter, this episode provides the tax knowledge you need to rock 2025 and beyond. Tune in and discover how to make your business mo…