CEO Global Network Podcast
🎙 Hosted by John Wilson, founder of CEO Global Network and author of GREAT CEOs and How They Are Made, this podcast delivers powerful insights for CEOs and executives looking to grow as leaders and drive lasting success.
Each episode features candid conversations with high-performing business leaders, expert speakers, and industry trailblazers—all focused on sharpening your leadership edge, building resilient companies, and improving your life, your team, and your impact.
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CEO Global Network Podcast
Stephen Kropf, President at Dundee Recycling - Building Culture, Trust & Community in a Gritty Industry
In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Stephen Kropf, President of Dundee Recycling, to explore the leadership lessons forged in one of the grittiest and most overlooked industries: scrap metal recycling. Stephen opens up about the challenges and rewards of running a family-owned business, keeping customer service top-tier in a high-volume operation, and how Dundee’s deep commitment to community involvement strengthens both culture and employee engagement. From radiation-triggering truck drivers to empowering team members with purpose, this episode is a candid look at what it means to lead with heart, hustle, and humility.
John Wilson (00:00)
Thank you for taking the time. I know you're a busy CEO. Let’s jump right in.
What's a lesson that you've learned running a family-owned scrap metal business for over 15 years?
Stephen Kropf (00:25)
Family businesses come with both blessings and challenges... trust is huge, but managing the dynamic with other employees is key too.
John Wilson (01:08)
How do you keep customer service at the center of such a fast-paced transactional business?
Stephen Kropf (01:26)
It’s all about understanding the different needs—walk-ins, industrial clients, dispatching... even experimenting with AI now to streamline service.
John Wilson (02:29)
What is the most unexpected thing you've ever seen come across the scale at Dundee?
Stephen Kropf (02:34)
A customer set off our radiation detector—turns out he had a medical injection the day before. That was wild.
John Wilson (03:36)
In such a gritty and repetitive business, how do you motivate your team?
Stephen Kropf (03:41)
Every person’s different. We have seasonal events, BBQs, goal setting, and always try to listen to what matters to our team.
John Wilson (04:42)
A big part of Dundee’s culture is giving back to the community. Why is that so important to you?
Stephen Kropf (04:51)
Money gives freedom and the power to help others. I grew up with little, so I know how impactful support can be. No child should be left out or hungry.
John Wilson (06:23)
That’s incredible. Do you think that helps you attract great talent too?
Stephen Kropf (06:33)
Absolutely. One new hire told us he’d never worked somewhere that cared this much about the community—it meant a lot to him.
John Wilson (06:48)
Last question: if a new employee walks into your yard for the first time, what’s the first thing you'd want to teach them?
Stephen Kropf (07:18)
That they’re not alone. Many don’t understand scrap metal at first, but it’s a real business—and we’re here to teach if they’re willing to learn.
John Wilson (08:23)
That’s fantastic. Stephen, thank you again for your time. This podcast is adjourned!
