The Elite Recruiter Podcast
Benjamin Mena
The Elite Recruiter Podcast is where top recruiters go to get better.
Hosted by executive recruiter Benjamin Mena, this show dives deep into the stories, strategies, and mindsets of the most successful people in the industry — from $1M solo producers to 8-figure agency founders.
Each episode delivers real, tactical insights for high-performance recruiting:
How elite recruiters build and scaleTools, tech stacks, and sourcing strategiesDaily habits and workflows that drive million-dollar desksLessons from failure, breakthrough wins, and mindset shiftsWhat the best are doing next — and how they’re changing the game
If you’re in agency recruiting, staffing, or executive search — this is your new secret weapon.
No fluff. No recycled advice. Just the unfiltered playbook of the top 1%.
🎧 Subscribe now — and start leveling up like an elite.
Hosted by executive recruiter Benjamin Mena, this show dives deep into the stories, strategies, and mindsets of the most successful people in the industry — from $1M solo producers to 8-figure agency founders.
Each episode delivers real, tactical insights for high-performance recruiting:
How elite recruiters build and scaleTools, tech stacks, and sourcing strategiesDaily habits and workflows that drive million-dollar desksLessons from failure, breakthrough wins, and mindset shiftsWhat the best are doing next — and how they’re changing the game
If you’re in agency recruiting, staffing, or executive search — this is your new secret weapon.
No fluff. No recycled advice. Just the unfiltered playbook of the top 1%.
🎧 Subscribe now — and start leveling up like an elite.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Apr 21, 2025 • 44min
From $12k to Millions: Ranjith Ravula’s Journey as an Immigrant Founder in IT Staffing
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.
38 snips
Apr 17, 2025 • 48min
$885K in One Year: How Katherine Jerald Turned LinkedIn DMs into $200K Clients & Crushed Recruiting
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.
50 snips
Apr 14, 2025 • 56min
Mastering the Sales Game: Tom Erb's Blueprint for Recruiting Success & Future-Proof Strategies
In this insightful discussion, Tom Erb, founder of Talent Resources and author of 'Winning the Staffing Sales Game', shares his journey from corporate recruiter to consulting entrepreneur. He reveals a 10-week blueprint to elevate recruiting success, emphasizing the importance of unique value propositions and structured sales processes. Tom explores different team models in recruitment, the role of technology in enhancing productivity, and the significance of authentic connections in sales. His practical strategies inspire both newcomers and veterans in the industry to thrive.
17 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 54min
From $1.4 Million Desk to Life-Changing Impact: Sharon Hulce's Masterclass on Retained Recruiting and Relentless Success
Join Sharon Hulce, a trailblazer in retained recruiting who operates a $1.4 million desk while giving back to her community. She shares her inspiring journey from being the first female construction recruiter in the U.S. to business success. Discover the power of commitment, building lasting client relationships, and the importance of a proactive mindset. Sharon also discusses navigating career transitions, effective recruitment strategies, and the transformative process of shifting from contingent to retained recruiting.
15 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 48min
$20 Million in Placements: David Bradley's Story as a Standard Bearer in Recruitment Leadership
David Bradley, a recruitment leader who has generated over $20 million in placements, shares insights on leading a successful team of 60 recruiters. He emphasizes the importance of strong leadership and nurturing a motivated culture within the organization. Bradley discusses the role of mentorship and tenacity in achieving consistent results, detailing how personal effort and effective communication can drive success. He also highlights the value of personal growth through community engagement and adapting to trends like AI in the recruitment landscape.
Mar 31, 2025 • 39min
Mastering the Exit: A Founder’s Guide to Building, Scaling, and Selling Recruitment Companies with Marc Cohen - Part 2
Marc Cohen, a seasoned recruitment entrepreneur who has successfully built and sold two recruitment companies, shares his insights on thriving in the industry. He discusses the challenges of navigating global recruitment markets and the impact of AI on the hiring process. Marc emphasizes the importance of mentorship and resilient mindsets in achieving business growth. He reveals strategies for preparing businesses for lucrative sales, focusing on scalability and optimizing margins. Tune in for a treasure trove of practical advice for recruitment founders!
9 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 45min
Mastering the Exit: A Founder’s Guide to Building, Scaling, and Selling Recruitment Companies with Marc Cohen - Part 1
Marc Cohen, an expert in building, scaling, and selling recruitment companies, shares his wealth of knowledge from years in the industry. He recounts his journey of resilience and determination, emphasizing the power of mindset in overcoming challenges. Listeners gain insights into preparing their businesses for lucrative exits, including identifying growth areas and embracing emerging technologies like AI. Cohen warns against the dangers of greed in business transactions, highlighting the importance of strategic timing and collaboration for successful exits.
Mar 27, 2025 • 45min
From Recruiter to CEO: Belinda Kerr's Blueprint for Scaling and Thriving in Business
In this discussion, Belinda Kerr, a serial entrepreneur and CEO, shares insights from her impressive journey of launching and selling multiple businesses. She emphasizes the importance of delegation and avoiding common pitfalls in business. Listeners learn how to attract and retain clients in today's competitive landscape while mastering focus and building authentic relationships. Belinda also highlights effective communication strategies on LinkedIn and guides recruiters on transitioning to successful entrepreneurship. Tune in for a wealth of practical advice!
Mar 24, 2025 • 51min
Leading 3,500 Recruiters: A Masterclass on Navigating Change With Admiral Jim Waters
Admiral Jim Waters, a seasoned submarine officer and commander of Navy Recruiting Command, dives into the complexities of recruiting over 3,500 personnel in a competitive job market. He shares transformative strategies, including streamlining processes to boost recruiter efficiency and utilizing data analytics. Waters discusses the importance of adapting to cultural shifts and evolving societal perceptions, and how enhanced communication and teamwork can redefine leadership in recruitment. His insights offer vital lessons for leading teams through change.
10 snips
Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 1min
$500 Left In The Bank and How He Turned It into an $800K Year: Blueprint For Financial Freedom with Randee Staats
Randee Staats, a recruiting professional who transformed his life from financial despair to an $800,000 success story, shares his incredible journey in this engaging discussion. He reveals the powerful points system he created to gamify recruiting tasks, boosting team motivation and efficiency. Randee emphasizes the importance of strategic mentorship, relationship-building, and consistent efforts in business development. He also explores how embracing discomfort and maintaining a positive mindset can turn obstacles into opportunities for both personal and financial growth.
