

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

Sep 12, 2024 • 44min
AI in Recruiting and Investing in Technology Startups with Robin Choy
Are you ready to revolutionize your recruiting strategies and gain invaluable insights into investing in early-stage technology startups?
In this engaging episode of "The Elite Recruiter Podcast," host Benjamin Mena sits down with industry expert Robin Choy to dive deep into the transformative impact of AI in recruiting and the key principles of successful investing in technology startups. As the landscape of recruiting rapidly evolves with AI innovations and startup ecosystems become more competitive, both recruiters and investors are constantly seeking ways to maintain their edge. This episode delivers timely solutions and aspirational outcomes for listeners aiming to stay ahead in these dynamic fields.
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
Main Benefits:
Mastering AI in Recruiting: Robin Choy discusses the impact of AI on recruiting, noting that while AI increases the volume of applications and outbound recruiter messages, it often leads to a reduction in reply rates due to the oversaturation. He emphasizes the necessity of investing in human interaction, personal branding, and content creation to counterbalance the impersonal nature of AI-generated communications. Additionally, Robin highlights the benefit of using AI for data retrieval from ATSs and note-taking systems, which can turn previously unusable data into valuable information.Strategic Insights for Startup Investments: Robin shares his expertise in identifying the right tech startups to invest in, focusing on crucial factors such as team dynamics, market potential, and the defensibility of the business model. Learn how to assess the robustness of a startup’s client relationships and its adaptability, and get inside tips on leveraging unique signals from trusted networks to make informed and strategic investment decisions.Adapting Recruitment Practices for Long-Term Success: Robin and Benjamin discuss practical advice on structuring interviews to gauge team compatibility, managing and adjusting client expectations, and sustaining long-term motivation in your recruiting career. Understand the importance of scalable marketing, continuous learning, and building enduring relationships with clients and candidates for long-term success in the recruiting industry.
Tune in to this episode now to transform your approach to recruiting and investing with actionable insights from Robin Choy that can elevate your strategy and results!
This episode was sponsored by Juicebox (https://juicebox.ai/) , the company behind PeopleGPT. AI Sourcing using Generative AI, simply describe who you're searching for in natural language. PeopleGPT creates the search and assess profiles. Trusted by 400+ companies and recruiting agencies. Check it out and get a 20% Discount code using: ELITE20. People GPT smarter sourcing, better hiring!
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YouTube: https://youtu.be/sEekZa2hols
Robin Choy LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbchoy/
With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/
Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/
Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/

Sep 9, 2024 • 39min
Building an Authentic Personal Brand in Recruiting with Joel Lalgee
Are you a recruiter struggling to build an authentic personal brand that stands out in today's competitive market?
In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Joel Lalgee, also known as "The Realist Recruiter," to discuss the ins and outs of constructing a personal brand in the recruitment industry. With the evolving landscape of digital media, many recruiters are grappling with how to leverage content creation effectively to attract the right clients and candidates. This episode addresses these challenges head-on and provides practical strategies to achieve your brand-building goals.
Expert Insights on Patience and Business Planning: Joel shares valuable lessons from his own journey, highlighting why planning and patience are crucial to developing a successful recruitment business and personal brand.Effective Content Creation and Monetization Techniques: Discover the strategies for creating impactful content that resonates with your audience and explore methods to monetize your efforts, ensuring a steady stream of revenue.Balancing Work-Life and Staying Productive: Both Joel and Benjamin reveal their personal tactics for maintaining productivity and work-life balance, providing actionable tips that you can implement right away.
Unlock the secrets to building an authentic and powerful personal brand in recruiting—listen to this insightful episode with Joel Lalgee and make 2024 your most successful year yet!
This episode was sponsored by Juicebox (https://juicebox.ai/) , the company behind PeopleGPT. AI Sourcing using Generative AI, simply describe who you're searching for in natural language. PeopleGPT creates the search and assess profiles. Trusted by 400+ companies and recruiting agencies. Check it out and get a 20% Discount code using: ELITE20. People GPT smarter sourcing, better hiring!
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
YouTube: https://youtu.be/G9mYLPkkbvQ
Joel Lalgee LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joellalgee/
With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/
Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/
Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/

Sep 4, 2024 • 1h 2min
Success, Challenges, and Building a First-Class Recruitment Business with Stuart Mitchell
Have you ever wondered what it takes to build a successful recruitment business from scratch and steer through the complexities of the ever-changing recruitment landscape?
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
In this latest episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, our host Benjamin Mena is joined by Stuart Mitchell, the founder of Hampton North—a leading cybersecurity-focused recruitment firm. Today’s recruitment professionals face numerous challenges, from handling rejections and market fluctuations to building a reliable and high-performing team. Stuart’s rich experience of navigating the highs and lows of the industry offers a treasure trove of actionable insights and proven strategies. Whether you're an aspiring recruiter looking to break into the industry or a seasoned veteran aiming to optimize your business, this episode will provide you with the knowledge you need to succeed.
Learn from Stuart’s Journey:
From being fired multiple times in his early career to founding a successful recruitment firm, Stuart Mitchell’s story is filled with lessons on resilience, perseverance, and leveraging life's challenges for success. Understand how he turned his passion into a thriving business and how his experiences can help you navigate your own career path.
Building a High-Performing Team:
Discover Stuart’s approach to creating a first-class recruitment business by focusing on employee satisfaction, building trust, and ensuring effective internal communication. Learn how to attract and retain top talent, implement data-driven performance strategies, and maintain consistent efforts to avoid complacency.
Mastering Emotional Resilience and Strategic Planning:
Dive into Stuart’s techniques for staying emotionally level through the ups and downs of the recruitment industry. Understand the importance of long-term planning, business performance tracking, and maintaining a positive reputation, which are essential for sustained success and growth in recruitment.
Are you ready to elevate your recruitment business and thrive in the competitive market? Click play now to listen to Stuart Mitchell’s expert advice and start applying these actionable strategies today!
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YouTube: https://youtu.be/P4xx49y_pno
Stuart Mitchell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-mitchell-08230a40/
With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/
Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/
Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/

Aug 29, 2024 • 44min
Inside GovCon Recruitment: An In-Depth Chat with Tommy Weinert
How can your recruitment strategy not only meet but exceed the demanding requirements of the government contracting space?
In today's competitive job market, recruiters face new challenges juggling technological advancements and traditional practices. The government contracting (Govcon) sector is no exception, requiring a unique blend of expertise and strategic thinking. This episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, hosted by Benjamin Mena, dives deep into Govcon recruitment with Tommy Weinert, founder of Mount Indie. If you’re looking to optimize your recruiting efforts and overcome common hurdles in attracting top-tier talent for government contracts, this conversation is a goldmine.
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
Insights on Effective Recruitment Strategies:
Tommy Weinert shares valuable insights on vetting potential clients. He discusses critical factors like workshare, pay, benefit packages, and KPIs. Learn how realistic assessments of contract feasibility can be a game-changer for your recruiting approach.
Leveraging Tools and Engagement:
Delve into the nuts and bolts of leveraging LinkedIn for recruiting and building your brand. Discover how fostering authentic engagement and personalized messaging can make a substantial impact in a saturated market.
Mastering the Art of Strategic Recruiting:
Gain knowledge on the complexities of government contracting recruitment. Tommy breaks down why understanding business goals, seeking mentorship, and integrating talent intelligence and market data is crucial for long-term success.
Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your Govcon recruitment game—tune into this episode now and transform your recruiting strategy to become an industry leader!
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
AI Recruiting Summit - https://ai-recruiting-summit.heysummit.com/
Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
YouTube: https://youtu.be/JkEhgksvxew
Tommy Weinert LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-weinert-7975277
With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/
Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/
Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/

Aug 26, 2024 • 1h 3min
Peak Performance of 7 Figure Billers with Gary Stauble
Are you a recruiter struggling to break through the seven-figure billing barrier while feeling trapped in a cycle of constant interruptions and declining productivity?
In this compelling episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena engages in a detailed discussion with Gary Stauble, founder of the Recruiting Lab, who brings a wealth of knowledge on achieving peak performance in the recruiting industry. Gary's eclectic background—from psychology to music and eventually recruiting—provides a unique perspective on how to build a business that not only succeeds financially but also resonates with personal values and leads to a fulfilling career. This episode tackles the pressing issue many recruiters face today: how to stay productive in an increasingly distracted world and achieve outstanding results in your recruiting career.
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
Unlocking Peak Performance
: Learn how to minimize interruptions and achieve a flow state that boosts both your effectiveness and satisfaction in your recruiting tasks. Gary shares tips for creating a "flow adjacent" work style, reducing friction and setting boundaries around daily distractions like emails and phone calls.
Mastering Effective Time Management
: Discover the crucial importance of focusing on subtraction rather than addition in time management. Gary explains how prioritizing essential tasks and avoiding an over-bloated to-do list can drastically improve productivity and help you build a well-balanced professional and personal life.
Leveraging Systems and Tools for Growth
: Delve into the Rainmaker Model and other practical tools like Phone Burner to enhance your preparation and streamline your recruitment process. Gary emphasizes the importance of setting up solid systems and standard operating procedures (SOPs) that allow you to leverage technology and delegate tasks, giving you the flexibility to enjoy more freedom and fulfillment.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from Gary Stauble on how to elevate your recruiting career to a whole new level. Click play on The Elite Recruiter Podcast and start transforming your approach to reach seven-figure billing today!
Additional Highlights:
Gary Stauble's journey from a rock band to successful recruiting and consulting.The significance of aligning business goals with personal values to avoid burnout.Real-life examples of recruiters transforming their productivity and revenue by applying Gary's strategies.Practical advice on outsourcing research tasks and efficiently managing client and candidate interactions.The psychological and strategic benefits of breaking tasks into smaller achievable goals to maintain motivation and momentum.
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
AI Recruiting Summit - https://ai-recruiting-summit.heysummit.com/
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YouTube: https://youtu.be/agpAg8BZh3Q
Gary Stauble LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garystauble/
With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/
Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/
Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/

Aug 22, 2024 • 1h 2min
From Lead Gen to Leading a $12.5 Million Recruiting Firm with Jeremy Jenson
Are you an aspiring recruiter or business owner looking to scale your recruiting firm to multi-million-dollar success through hyper-niche markets and innovative strategies?
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
In today’s fiercely competitive market, scaling a recruiting firm can feel like navigating a maze. Knowing where to focus your efforts and how to leverage technology and mentorship could be the game-changer you need. If you're facing challenges in business development, struggling to hire the right talent, or looking to expand your market share in a slow hiring climate, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical strategies.
Strategic Growth and Scalability: Learn from Jeremy Jenson’s experience on how focusing on hyper-niche markets and building million-dollar books of business can lead to significant growth. Discover why hiring individuals without recruiting backgrounds and investing in their development can pay off big time.Innovative Recruitment Models: Gain insights into Jeremy’s unique approach, inspired by high-paced industries portrayed in shows like "Suits" and "Billions," and see how his firm's focus on high-paying markets and individual contributors in high-performing roles can yield exceptional fees.Personal and Professional Transformation: Hear Jeremy’s personal journey through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the crucial role of mentorship and the Entrepreneurs Organization (EO) in his growth, and his strategies for maintaining a balanced personal life while achieving business success.
Don’t miss out on these game-changing strategies and personal growth tips from a top recruiter—tune in to hear Jeremy Jenson’s story and transform your recruiting approach today!
Tune in now and elevate your recruiting game with expert insights from Jeremy Jenson and Benjamin Mena on The Elite Recruiter Podcast!
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
AI Recruiting Summit - https://ai-recruiting-summit.heysummit.com/
Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
YouTube: https://youtu.be/AJ7hRX6ZdfA
Jeremy Jenson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremyjenson/
Encore Search Partners, LLC: https://encoresearch.com/
With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/
Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/
Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/

Aug 19, 2024 • 52min
Marketing Secrets for Recruiters with Danielle Byfuglien
Have you ever wondered how top recruiters leverage marketing strategies to stand out in a crowded market and make meaningful connections?
In the highly competitive field of recruiting, standing out can be a massive challenge. As a recruiter, your aim is not just to find the perfect candidates but also to connect and engage with them in a way that resonates. This episode of "The Elite Recruiter Podcast" delves into effective marketing secrets tailored specifically for recruiters to help them rise above the noise, build stronger relationships, and ultimately, boost placement success. Featuring the insightful Danielle Byfuglien from Clear Edge, you'll learn practical techniques that tackle today's recruitment challenges head-on.
In this episode, you will discover:
Innovative Video and User-Generated Content Strategies
- Learn how to turn candidate feedback into compelling blog posts and case studies, and effectively use platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for maximum reach and engagement.
Personalized Messaging Techniques
- Danielle shares expert tips on crafting concise, targeted messages that differentiate you from the competition on LinkedIn and other social platforms, boosting your connection rate with potential candidates.
Empowering Mentorship and Networking Advice
- Gain insights into building a robust professional network, advocating for yourself in your career, and participating in mentorship programs like GSA’s mentor match to elevate your recruiting game.
Dive into this episode with Danielle Byfuglien and uncover the marketing secrets that can transform your recruiting approach—Listen now to make 2024 your breakthrough year in recruitment!
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
AI Recruiting Summit - https://ai-recruiting-summit.heysummit.com/
Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
YouTube: https://youtu.be/EzKOqw8xlpo
Danielle Byfuglien LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-byfuglien/
With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/
Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/
Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/

Aug 15, 2024 • 30min
The Role of AI in Modern Recruiting: A Deep Dive with Prem Kumar
In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, Benjamin Mena sits down with Prem Kumar, a thought leader in AI-driven recruiting and CEO of Humanly. They dive deep into how AI can solve specific problems within recruiting, ensuring you not only streamline your hiring process but also enhance candidate experience. This episode is tailored for recruiters, hiring managers, and recruiting technology founders who are navigating the complexities of modern hiring landscapes.
1. AI's Role in Solving Recruiting Challenges: Prem Kumar outlines how AI isn't a choice between humans and chatbots but between a chatbot and being ignored. Discover the transformative power of AI in matching candidates and managing high applicant volumes effectively.
2. Best Practices for Implementing AI: Get insights on the importance of being vigilant with AI tools, understanding the technology behind them, and ensuring data protection. Learn from Prem’s experience on how to ask the right questions and scrutinize the training data behind AI to build trust and ethics in your recruitment process.
3. Practical Applications and Tools: Explore the practical tools and strategies, such as generative AI tools like chat GPT that can drastically improve communication and body language during the hiring process. Plus, gain expert advice on understanding the daily challenges of recruiters to create more effective recruiting technology solutions.
Transform your recruitment strategy with the latest AI advancements by listening to this episode of *The Elite Recruiter Podcast* and unlock the full potential of AI in your hiring processes.
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
AI Recruiting Summit - https://ai-recruiting-summit.heysummit.com/
Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
YouTube: https://youtu.be/LKBe61Nxwp4
Prem Kumar LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/premskumar/
With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/
Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/
Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/

Aug 12, 2024 • 39min
Building a $10 Million Recruiting Business with Dave Fox
Have you ever wondered how to turn vision into reality and grow a recruiting business to a staggering $10 million?
In this impactful episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with Dave Fox, CEO of Focus GT’s—a trailblazer in the niche staffing and recruiting industry. Together, they unravel the journey, strategies, and tools that helped Dave balloon his business to an impressive $10 million in revenue. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned recruiter, or someone interested in mastering business growth, this episode is packed with powerful insights tailored just for you.
Many recruiters and business owners grapple with the constant stress of uncertainty, market fluctuations, and scaling challenges. These common issues often seem insurmountable, preventing businesses from reaching their full potential. This episode offers a proven roadmap, touching on critical elements like stress management, marketing strategies, and financial growth—all aimed at empowering you to elevate your business to new heights.
Vision and Strategic Focus: Discover the dynamic role that vision boards play in Dave Fox's life and business. He reveals how continuously updating his vision board keeps his goals in sight and maintains momentum. Learn how to set ambitious yet attainable goals and persistently pursue them until they come to fruition.
Navigating Stress and Uncertainty: Dave emphasizes the crucial link between stress management and entrepreneurial success. Hear firsthand how he overcomes the ups and downs of business life, transforming stress into a driving force for growth. Glean practical advice on staying resilient and turning challenges into stepping stones.
Advanced Tools and Marketing Techniques: From leveraging powerful automation tools like Read AI to focused marketing efforts and content creation, Dave shares the secret weapons behind his business growth. Understand how to harness these tools for increased efficiency and how strategic marketing can draw in your ideal clientele.
Ready to unlock the secrets behind building a $10 million recruiting business? Click play now and let Dave Fox's story inspire and guide you toward your own entrepreneurial success.
Finish The Year Strong Summit - https://finish-the-year-strong.heysummit.com/
AI Recruiting Summit - https://ai-recruiting-summit.heysummit.com/
Signup for future emails from The Elite Recruiter Podcast: https://eliterecruiterpodcast.beehiiv.com/subscribe
YouTube: https://youtu.be/YDdZ-b1pCgg
Dave Fox LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davefoxceo
With your Host Benjamin Mena with Select Source Solutions: http://www.selectsourcesolutions.com/
Benjamin Mena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/
Benjamin Mena Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benlmena/
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Aug 5, 2024 • 56min
The Art of Strategic Headhunting with Chris Relth
Chris Relth, founder of Artemis, shares his insights on strategic headhunting and the art of building genuine relationships within the recruiting industry. He emphasizes the significance of authenticity and trust, which contribute to his impressive 95% referral and 75% close rates. Relth discusses the advantages of specializing in niche markets and how a strong company culture enhances team dynamics. He also touches on overcoming business challenges and how vulnerability can pave the way for meaningful connections and professional growth.