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Building Better Futures

Building Better Futures

Written by: Infinite Consulting
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Welcome to the Building Better Futures podcast, where host Eric Hirani connects with visionary thought leaders who are building the future. Together they delve into what it takes to not only build companies and structures but how to inspire individuals to reach their full potential, creating the leaders of tomorrow. This is the show for you if you’re interested in: - Learning more about building and delivering iconic projects and companies - Cutting-edge innovation - Cultivating positive work cultures - Helping everyone reach their full potential - Creating exceptional teams Together we can create a ripple effect of positive change in our communities and society, one inspired individual at a time.Copyright 2024 Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • EP 34: Chasing Challenges as the Foundation of Long-Term Leadership with Anthony Pastore of STV Inc.
    Jan 20 2026

    Join us as Anthony Pastore, East Regional Director of STV, reflects on a career built through persistence, trust and leadership. Anthony shares his path from union carpentry to leading some of New York City’s most complex public works projects, including the World Trade Center. He discusses why communication, decision making and investing in people matter more than titles and how construction remains a powerful way to serve communities.



    Key Takeaways:


    00:00 Introduction.

    06:10 Growing up in a blue-collar environment shaped early exposure to construction and work ethic.

    08:03 Balancing full-time field work with night school builds discipline and long-term commitment.

    14:14 Leadership effectiveness depends on clear communication and shared understanding.

    17:48 Advanced planning and steady decision-making are critical on complex projects.

    22:16 Public works projects are uniquely rewarding because they serve communities long term.

    28:06 Trust and integrity are essential to maintaining strong professional relationships.

    32:20 Chasing challenges and continuous learning matter more than titles for career growth.

    39:05 Project delivery is growing more complex while the industry faces increasing skilled labor challenges.


    Resources Mentioned:


    Anthony Pastore

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-pastore-b804091b7/


    STV | LinkedIn

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/stv/


    STV | Website

    https://www.stvinc.com


    Fordham University

    https://www.fordham.edu


    Institute of Design and Construction

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Institute_of_Design_and_Construction


    “Boys in the Boat” by Daniel James Brown

    https://www.danieljamesbrown.com/the-boys-in-the-boat


    Construction Management Association of America (CMAA)

    https://cmaanet.org




    Thanks for listening to the “Building Better Futures” podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.



    #PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

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    48 mins
  • EP 33: How To Lead by Pouring Into Others and Creating Room for Questions with Jared Green of Langan Engineering and Environmental Services
    Jan 6 2026

    Jared Green, Principal and Vice President of Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, reflects on a 23-year career in geotechnics shaped by early STEM curiosity, steady mentorship and community service. He shares why AEC can feel intimidating at first yet stays welcoming, how practical math and science teaching excites students and how leaders build safe rooms where new voices grow.


    Key Takeaways:


    00:00 Introduction.

    05:26 A career feels meaningful when learning connects to real-world outcomes.

    10:02 Early curiosity and hands-on learning often shape long-term interests.

    16:05 Supportive peers and mentors make it easier to enter demanding industries.

    18:12 Students stay engaged when math and science feel practical and relevant.

    28:44 Taking a chance before feeling ready can open important doors.

    34:38 Strong teams communicate by asking questions early and making time to support each other.

    40:24 Progress in professional communities is made possible through shared effort and support from others.

    44:45 Long careers benefit from caring for mental health and asking for support.


    Resources Mentioned:


    Jared Green

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjaredmgreen/


    Langan Engineering and Environmental Services | LinkedIn

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/langan-engineering-environmental-services/


    Langan Engineering and Environmental Services | Website

    http://www.langan.com


    Salvadori Center

    https://www.salvadori.org/


    National Science Foundation Engineering programs

    https://www.nsf.gov/eng/programs


    American Society of Civil Engineers

    https://www.asce.org/


    “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho

    https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18144590-the-alchemist





    Thanks for listening to the “Building Better Futures” podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.




    #PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • EP 32: How Long-Term Vision and Relationships Drive Success with Eric Alemany of New York Power Authority
    Nov 25 2025

    On this episode, Eric Alemany, Senior Director, Supplier Relationship Management of the New York Power Authority, shares his 27-year journey in public power. We cover how supplier relationships drive execution, why patience and resilience matter, and how NYPA supports communities through accessibility, diversity and forward-looking energy initiatives.


    Key Takeaways:


    00:00 Introduction.

    05:39 A sustained career path demonstrates continuous learning and adaptability.

    10:29 Strong supplier relationships enable efficient project delivery.

    14:37 Guided onboarding helps partners navigate complex procurement systems.

    19:22 Supplier diversity initiatives expand opportunity for businesses.

    21:29 Public assets strengthen community engagement and local economies.

    24:27 Accessibility programs increase inclusion across statewide services.

    27:43 Resilience and collaboration turn disruptions into progress.

    35:54 Innovation and AI improve operational efficiency and planning.

    43:40 Success means creating lasting impact through growth and empowerment.


    Resources Mentioned:


    Eric Alemany

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/alemanye/


    New York Power Authority | LinkedIn

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-york-power-authority/


    New York Power Authority | Website

    http://www.nypa.gov/


    New York State Canal Corporation

    https://www.canals.ny.gov/





    Thanks for listening to the “Building Better Futures” podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star review, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss any insightful conversations.



    #PeopleDevelopment #WorkplaceCulture #AECpodcast

    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
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