Episode 207: Ken Rusk

Blue collar entrepreneur Ken Rusk believes that anyone can realize their dreams and live a comfortable life regardless of educational background or past. He supports first-time job seekers to recognize opportunities while remaining true to themselves.

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Ken Rusk is an Ohio based construction business entrepreneur and self-made blue-collar millionaire, who has launched multiple successful endeavors over the last 30 years. He has extensive experience in hiring, training, and developing first-time job seekers, particularly those without college degrees. Passionate about helping people achieve their dreams regardless of their educational background or past, Ken has coached hundreds of people on goal setting, life visualization, career paths, and sound financial planning. Learn more about his journey in this short video.

3 Key Points

1. Planning for future opportunities and goals is a powerful tool for success
2. Learn what you’re in control of.
3. To whom much is given, much is expected.

Quote

“It’s not so important [to consider] what you do for a living as it is to consider what you do with what you do for a living.”                        

What We Talked About

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• 01:55 – Does your book only apply to blue collar work in the trades?
• 03:26 – On the “four-year head start” and the benefits of blue collar work
• 06:40 – What role does pride play when people choose college?
• 10:17 – On how we define our lives
• 12:30 – What are the most important skills that young people might not develop?
• 15:00 – Are racial and gender biases shifting in blue collar work?
• 17:01 – Can workers today create their own career changes?
• 19:38 – What do you say to people who think blue collar work is dying in America?
• 21:45 – Seizing opportunities
• 24:30 – On perceptions of unreliability in the trades
• 27:00 – Can you tell us more about the importance of building certainty?
• 29:50 – What is your impact?
• 32:30 – What does impactful leadership mean to you?
• 33:45 – On “creating cool” and company culture

Actionable Tips

1. Look for the reactions of those you impact and let them inspire you.
2. Always chase a new goal.
3. Turn inward: see what you care about and then go out into the world and make it happen.

Resources Mentioned

• Ken’s book: Blue Collar Cash
• Learn more about Ken Rusk on his website or on Facebook.
• My interview with Doug Parry, the renovator who works by word-of-mouth.

Resources for Your Business

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