Taylor welcomes Lynn Miller, President of Miller Earthworks, to the podcast this week to explore his remarkable journey from a rather modest start to leading a successful family-owned business. Highlighting his unique approach to excavating which involves focusing on niche projects that larger companies often overlook, Lynn discusses with Taylor the importance of fostering strong relationships with customers and employees, the challenges of steady growth, and the benefits of keeping business local.
Lynn’s story emphasizes key themes such as balancing business expansion with personal life, cultivating a supportive company culture, and the value of mentorship. From making smart financial choices to prioritizing work-life balance, our guest provides practical advice for anyone looking to start or grow a business. His conversation with Taylor here today also covers navigating economic shifts, investing in employees, and building a company rooted in loyalty and integrity. In essence, Lynn's journey serves as a powerful reminder that success isn’t just about growth—it’s about staying true to your values, investing in people, and creating a legacy of integrity.
Episode Highlights:
The importance of focusing on smaller, niche jobs in the excavating industry
How to foster a loyal, motivated workforce through employee involvement and care
Balancing business growth with personal and family life
The value of mentorship and having trusted advisors in business
Keeping operations local and building strong, long-term relationships with clients
Navigating financial challenges, from debt management to strategic growth
The role of faith, family, and community in shaping business decisions
Key Takeaways:
"We started out with pretty much nothing. I borrowed money from a neighbor to buy that first piece of equipment. We have a lot to be thankful for."
"I love to involve my guys in decisions. It brings a lot of ownership and shows their value."
"Having a mentor is a big thing. A banker, insurance company, and accountant that share similar values go a long way."
"Relationships are key.”
"There are sacrifices to be made in business. Work is the temporary part. The long term is your family."
"I love to run equipment. I would still be on equipment if I didn't have anything else to do."
"Building strong relationships with your customers and employees is so big in business."
"We have a lot to be thankful for."
As always, thank you to our good friends over at Komatsu for sponsoring this podcast: https://www.komatsu.com/
Links:
Taylor White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-white-9881a5170/?originalSubdomain=ca
To see highlights from the 2023 show, go to: https://www.conexpoconagg.com/show-experience/show-highlights
Komatsu: https://www.komatsu.com/
Lynn Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-miller-24361260/
Miller Earthworks: https://millertrenching.com/