Episode 204: ‘Grit, Growth, and Guts’ with Breanna Howard
In this episode:
Christi Powell and Angela Gardner interview Breanna Howard, an estimator and business development professional at Palmetto State Roofing and co-owner of Eastern Waste Solutions, about balancing industry work, entrepreneurship, and raising a one- and two-year-old. Brianna explains how negative workplace experiences shaped her focus on creating a welcoming culture by building trust with field crews through jobsite engagement and employee appreciation. She shares Eastern Waste Solutions’ community efforts, including a charity dumpster filled with donated toys for Secret Santa of Simpsonville and a planned summer donation drive for women's and children’s shelters. Brianna describes flexible workforce practices such as allowing time off without PTO, emphasizing networking beyond one’s role, encouraging women to pursue construction despite social expectations, and discussing managing a learning disability by rereading and double-checking work while using it as motivation to succeed.
Show Notes and Links:
00:00 Meet Breanna Howard
01:35 Turning Negativity Into Culture
03:10 Ice Cream And Trust
04:24 Charity Dumpster Giveback
05:46 Flexibility For Working Parents
07:47 Networking Beyond Your Role
10:06 Women In Construction Courage
13:26 Managing Learning Disabilities
18:02 How To Connect And Wrap Up
About Breanna:
I’m a wife, mom of two, and entrepreneur building a life and career in the construction industry. From commercial roofing to owning a dumpster rental business, I’ve faced the challenges of a male-dominated field while learning to lead with grit, resilience, and purpose.
My journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s shaped who I am today. I’m passionate about showing other women what’s possible—proving you can build a business, raise a family, and grow through every obstacle that comes your way.
