The Elite Recruiter Podcast

Zach Keen, the founder of Keen Search and Staffing, shares his transformative journey from being laid off to successfully running a recruiting firm. He discusses the importance of mentorship and securing investors to ease the transition. Zach offers insights into modern business development strategies, contrasting traditional approaches with innovative outreach. He candidly addresses the challenges of balancing family life with entrepreneurship while emphasizing the need for authenticity in client relationships. Tune in for tangible tips on thriving in the competitive recruiting landscape!

Join Steve Lu, CEO and co-founder of pin.com, an AI-driven sourcing platform, as he discusses the transformative role of AI in recruiting. He emphasizes leveraging technology to enhance efficiency and build genuine relationships rather than viewing it as a threat. Steve also shares insights on essential AI tools that reduce manual work while improving candidate matching. He highlights the importance of adaptability and collaboration between tech and recruiters while encouraging listeners to embrace change and future-proof their careers.

Rich Rosen, a top biller in the recruiting field, shares his secrets to achieving a staggering $300K month. He discusses the power of integrating AI tools and high-volume outbound efforts with traditional personal recruiting methods. Rich emphasizes the importance of consistent LinkedIn posting and a disciplined work ethic as keys to success. With a focus on overcoming industry noise and mental barriers, he offers actionable strategies to help recruiters thrive and reset their mindsets for financial growth.

In this engaging discussion, Trinette Cunningham, the CEO of the National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS), shares her passion for the recruiting industry. She emphasizes the critical importance of certifications in navigating complex legislation and ethical scenarios. The impact of AI on recruitment and the rising significance of mental health in the workplace are also explored. Cunningham advocates for networking and ongoing education, revealing how professional associations can elevate a recruiter's career in today's rapidly changing landscape.

Keely Flood, a seasoned sales coach and recruiting consultant, tackles the distractions of 'shiny object syndrome' in recruiting. She discusses the importance of strategic planning and nurturing client relationships over chasing the latest tech trends. Flood shares valuable frameworks like time blocking and market mapping that empower recruiters to focus on meaningful conversations. With insights on building genuine connections and a growth mindset, listeners can shift their focus from AI hype to real, measurable success.

James Blackwell, a recruitment thought leader and mentor specializing in AI and automation, shares insights on the current transformation in the recruitment industry. He discusses how AI is revolutionizing sourcing and outreach, stressing that adapting to these tools is vital for agencies. Strategies for scaling recruitment businesses remotely while avoiding burnout are explored, along with the importance of effective delegation. Finally, practical advice for selling AI-driven recruitment solutions to meet rising client demands is provided, ensuring listeners stay ahead in a competitive landscape.

Kaylee Estes, owner of Estes Group, shares her journey from executive assistant to recruiting visionary. She dives into the evolving landscape of recruitment, highlighting the benefits of embedded and fractional recruiting models. Kaylee reveals insider secrets about what internal talent teams truly desire and offers strategies for building trust and authentic relationships. Personal anecdotes illustrate the emotional rollercoaster of recruiting, emphasizing balance and community support as keys to success in the industry.

Have you ever asked yourself what it really takes to break away from a decade-long career at a recruiting firm, step out on your own, and land new clients right from the start—even when the salary, security, and a promised succession plan suddenly disappear?   If you're a recruiter frustrated by stagnant growth, office politics, or waiting for a buy-in that's always just out of reach, this episode goes straight to the heart of your dilemma. In today’s competitive recruiting world, waiting for permission often means missing out. Benjamin Mena sits down with Andy, who shares his raw, behind-the-scenes journey from loyal employee to founder of High Altitude Recruiting. You’ll hear firsthand how Andy turned uncertainty, fear, and even a restrictive non-compete into rocket fuel for launching his own agency and booking clients within days—without gimmicks or empty buzzwords. If you want to break free, earn what you’re worth, and thrive in 2024’s market, this episode is packed with actionable insights tailored just for you. Learn how to unlock the power of your professional network: Andy details the exact approach and messaging that drove a 60% response rate and immediate client interest through personalized LinkedIn outreach—even connecting with founders, HR leaders, and industry decision-makers with a modest yet irresistible offer.See why mastering both mindset and operational basics matters: Discover Andy’s step-by-step method for setting up a nimble recruiting business (think: ATS selection, on-site client meetings, transparent service, and value-driven pricing inspired by industry leaders like Alex Hormozi).Find out how to shift from reactive to proactive business development: Whether you’re considering starting your own agency or want to bring in more clients now, Andy and Ben reveal real-world tactics—from referrals and industry events, to content and branding—that build credibility, foster referrals, and keep your pipeline full even through market slowdowns. This episode is brought to you by Remote Assistants https://www.remoteassistants.ai/ – the go-to partner for recruiters who are done wasting time on operations, sourcing, or marketing. Their Remote Assistants are pre-vetted and fully trained for an entire 4 months. We’re talking sourcing, candidate follow-up, backend automation, marketing support – all the things that pull you away from actually growing your business. So if you’re serious about scaling your agency, and want to buy back your time with real, plug-and-play talent – go to www.remoteassistants.ai and get matched in under 48 hours.  AI Recruiting Summit 2025 – Registration: https://ai-recruiting-summit-2025.heysummit.com/ Finish The Year Strong 2025 – Registration: https://rock-the-year-2025.heysummit.com/ Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe  YouTube: https://youtu.be/sLp_ju2ZnfI  Follow Andy Roads on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyroads/ With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/  Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/

Ranjith Ravula, founder of Racks Group, shares his inspiring journey from arriving in the U.S. with just $12,000 and no connections to building a multi-million dollar staffing business. He discusses overcoming language barriers and financial struggles while emphasizing resilience and a growth mindset. Listeners will gain actionable insights on transforming setbacks, mastering networking, and the importance of personal branding. Ranjith’s story serves as a powerful motivational tool for anyone facing challenges in their professional journey.

Katherine Jerald, a recruiting powerhouse and Pinnacle Society member, generated an impressive $885,000 in her first year by focusing on the Aerospace and Defense industry. She shares her strategy of using LinkedIn DMs to secure $200K clients, revealing a step-by-step approach for success. Katherine also discusses overcoming personal and professional setbacks, building a strong personal brand, and the importance of accountability. Her journey offers actionable insights and motivation for anyone looking to scale their recruiting business.