In this episode of Strong Conversations, Russ Kathrein, Vice President of Lumber & Building Materials at Do it Best, shares lessons from a lifetime in the building materials industry—from growing up in a family-owned lumber yard to leading one of the industry's largest cooperative organizations. Through stories of resilience, entrepreneurship, and leadership, Russ explains why relationships, community, and adaptability remain the foundation of long-term success. In this episode: - Why reputation is your greatest asset - The keys to building a successful independent lumber business - How community relationships create lasting competitive advantages - Leadership lessons earned through adversity, persistence, and experience - The unforgettable story behind Russ's appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show