Reflections from the Road

Connections That Count

Author

Mike Rosen
May 08, 2025

Groundwork

The last few weeks have been humbling.

Since launching The Blue Collar Evangelist, I’ve been overwhelmed by the support, encouragement, and genuine interest in this next chapter. The timing feels right with the trove of articles that have been published, here’s on of my recent favorites from WSJ. I’ve traveled to Indiana, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin, an upcoming trip to North Carolina that I’m excited about! I’ve had meaningful conversations with longtime friends and inspiring dialogues with new friends; builders, operators, founders, recruiters, and investors, all united by a shared passion for creating, growing, and strengthening real businesses, in real industries.

These conversations have spanned everything from family-owned construction firms and specialty contractors to PE-backed platforms and tech-enabled field service startups. The range of people doing extraordinary work in this space is truly energizing, full of opportunity.

I’ve also had the privilege to roll up my sleeves:

✅ Joined a board | ✅ Made investments | ✅ Consulting engagements

This work of advising leaders, refining growth strategies, unlocking operational value has reminded me of what I love most: building alongside people who care deeply about what they do, who they serve, and why.

Gratitude

Here’s a recent note I received from an executive in a Private Equity backed residential services business:

❝

"Working with Mike has been a game-changer. He has a rare blend of strategic thinking, operational depth, and an uncanny ability to make everyone feel seen and heard. Mike brings people together, drives clarity, and aligns execution with investor expectations without losing the heart of the business. His presence elevates those around him."

C-Suite Executive in PE-backed Platform

I’m grateful for the opportunity, most of all, I’m grateful for the trust!

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

This is just the beginning. I’ll continue sharing what I’m learning, seeing, and building from inside the skilled trades, field services, and blue-collar economy.

If we haven’t connected yet, if you’re building something that aligns with this mission, you have questions, or feedback, please reach out! In the words of Deion Sanders, I am not “hard to find!”

As I’ve always said: no one should have to do this alone.

Want to collaborate?

Whether you're an operator, investor, founder, or just someone who wants to elevate the trades—I want to hear from you.

👉 Connect with the BCE on LinkedIn 
👉 Instagram 
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👉 Twitter / X
👉 Visit theBCE.com
Or just reply to this email, I read every message

Until Next Time

Stay humble. Stay hands-on. And never stop building.

Best,

Mike Rosen
The Blue Collar Evangelist