The Pinnacle Take – Details, episodes & analysis

Are you a recruiter feeling stretched too thin or stuck in a broad market? Ready to transform your business, go deeper into your niche, and maximize your value? In this insightful episode of the Pinnacle Take Podcast, host Benjamin Mena welcomes Andrea (Annie) Colabella, founder of the Kardea Group, to share how niching down in the investment management sector—and shifting from contingent to retained search—catapulted her firm’s success.

Andrea reveals her journey from a trading desk to launching her boutique recruitment firm in NYC, and the game-changing impact of specializing in legal and compliance roles. Discover how focusing relentlessly on a sub-niche not only streamlined operations and recyclability of candidates, but also built a reputation that made her a go-to retained search partner.

1. From Generalist to Specialist: Hear Andrea’s strategy for cutting out low ROI work and zeroing in on her true market sweet spot.
2. Making the Shift to Retained Search: Learn actionable steps and mindset shifts for moving up the value ladder to become a sought-after expert with upfront client commitment.
3. Relationship-Driven Success: Andrea shares how networking, events, and authentic connections anchor her firm’s reputation and client loyalty.

Tune in now to master the secrets of going deeper, going retained, and building an elite recruiting business!

Connect & Level Up:

• Listen to this episode, subscribe, and share with fellow recruiters who are ready to thrive!
• Follow Andrea Colabella on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colabella/
• Learn more about The Pinnacle Society: https://pinnaclesociety.org/

Are you ready to break through plateaus and build a recruitment business that truly scales? In this episode of the Pinnacle Take Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with aerospace and defense recruiting powerhouse Katherine Jerald to unveil the real story behind her first-year billings of $885K, including the secrets to landing a $261K direct message deal on LinkedIn and thriving in the lucrative GovCon sector. Katherine Jerald shares her journey from working in her father's recruiting office at age 12 to founding her own firm and scaling a high-performing team, all while tracking the metrics that matter and personal branding that converts leads into clients. Listeners will discover actionable strategies for LinkedIn business development, tips for dominating industry conferences, and the tools that streamline recruiting operations in today's competitive landscape.

1. Scaling in Tough Markets: Learn how Katherine Jerald navigated family business legacies, personal setbacks, and market shifts to build a thriving recruiting firm outside of the conventional segments.

2. LinkedIn & Conference Strategies: Explore her proven methods for driving 64% of new business through LinkedIn DMs, and practical advice for making industry conferences a goldmine for client development.

3. Tracking Success & Accountability: Get a peek into the metrics and accountability tactics that fuel top billers inside the Pinnacle Society.

Ready to redefine your recruiting career and business? Listen now and start implementing the systems and branding techniques shared by Katherine Jerald and Benjamin Mena. Follow Katherine on LinkedIn!

Katherine Jerald on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejerald/ 

Pinnacle Society: https://pinnaclesociety.org/ 

Are you ready to unlock the keys to consistent top billing and transform your approach to business development in recruiting? In this powerful episode of the Pinnacle Take Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with distinguished Pinnacle Society member Katharine Wilcox. From her start in Hollywood’s talent agency world to running a thriving Atlanta-based executive search firm, Katharine shares how authentic relationship-building and relentless hustle have fueled her success.

This episode is packed with proven strategies and real-world advice for recruiters at all levels striving to elevate their business development game:

1. Relationship-Driven Business Growth: Learn how Katharine transitioned from talent agent to elite recruiter, mastering the art of relationship-based business development that consistently delivers repeat clients and team build-outs.
2. Effective Local Market Strategies: Discover how focusing deeply on a local market, while staying open to new verticals, can drive sustainable revenue and personal referrals.
3. Tactical Hustle and Everyday Excellence: Katharine gives a behind-the-scenes look at her daily discipline, time-blocking, and how she leverages every conversation for lasting impact.
4. Actionable Tips for Aspiring Millon-Dollar Billers: Gain practical advice on self-management, surrounding yourself with the right people, and leading with authenticity.

Tune in to gain actionable insights and redefine your approach to business development. Listen now and take your recruitment career to the next level!

Pinnacle Society: https://pinnaclesociety.org/

Connect with Katharine Wilcox on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinewilcox/

Curious what it takes to rise to the top and stay there for decades in the world of recruiting? In this must-listen episode of The Pinnacle Take Podcast, host Benjamin Mena welcomes Michael Goldman, one of the founding members of the Pinnacle Society and a legend in recruiting with over 45 years’ experience. Michael shares how a surprise encounter in a New Jersey bar launched a career that's seen massive industry evolution—from manual files and rotary phones to the AI age—without ever losing sight of the core skills that matter.

Recruiters at every level will gain a rare perspective on:

1. Foundational Confidence: Michael reveals why true recruiter confidence comes from knowing and articulating your value—not your billings.
2. Adapting to Change: Learn how technology, communication, and the recruiting landscape have transformed, and why relationship-building still trumps all.
3. Overcoming Fear and Building Resilience: Uncover practical advice on conquering the common fears that hold recruiters back and hear actionable strategies from someone who's weathered every economic storm.
4. Legacy, Ethics, and the Pinnacle Society: Dive into the evolution of the industry’s premier network and how giving back sets elite recruiters apart.

Listen now to discover actionable tips on influence, consultative recruiting, and more.

Michael Golman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelgoldman1/

Pinnacle Society: https://pinnaclesociety.org/

Have you ever wondered why some recruiters consistently hit top biller status while others get stuck chasing the latest tech trends and still fall short?

In today’s recruitment landscape, it’s easy to get lost in the flood of new tools, platforms, and “silver bullet” solutions vying for your attention. But what if the secret to lasting success isn’t in complexity, but in mastering the basics and focusing deeply on your niche? In this episode of The Elite Recruiter Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with powerhouse recruiter Amy Simpson—Pinnacle Society member and second-generation search pro—to reveal why keeping it simple and doubling down on fundamentals have made her a repeat big biller in the ultra-competitive insurance recruiting space.

This conversation couldn’t come at a better time for recruiters struggling to cut through the noise and for agency owners who want to build a sustainable business—not just chase the latest shiny object. If you’re looking for solutions to the overwhelming problem of tech distraction, call reluctance, inconsistent billings, or lack of inbound leads, Amy’s insights are your playbook for real-world progress.

Here’s what’s in it for you:

• Learn how to build strong, long-term client relationships and an unbeatable reputation so you attract repeat business and referrals—instead of constantly scrambling for the next deal.
• Discover the behind-the-scenes playbook for generating a steady flow of inbound business using targeted SEO, niche branding, and the right digital marketing partners—proving you don’t need to “outbound hustle” 24/7 in order to keep your desk full.
• Get clear, actionable takeaways on how to structure your day for maximum placement success, when to leverage basic tech tools like LinkedIn Recruiter, ZoomInfo, and ChatGPT (and when not to), and how to track activities that actually deliver consistent results year after year.

If you’re tired of surface-level hacks and want to learn what truly sets elite recruiters apart, this episode is packed with the exact mindset, strategies, and daily habits that’ll help you climb to the top—and stay there.

Push play now to unlock the simple, consistent steps Amy uses to dominate her niche, keep family business thriving, and bring authentic, long-term value to both clients and candidates!

Follow Amy Simpson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/insuranceopportunities/

Pinnacle Society: https://pinnaclesociety.org/

Are you a recruiter looking to break through plateaued results, build deeper client relationships, or future-proof your success in an evolving industry? In this standout episode of The Pinnacle Take Podcast, host Benjamin Mena sits down with recruiting icon and Pinnacle Society member Cari Kraft. Together, they unpack Cari’s proven journey from accidental recruiter to top biller and esteemed agency leader at Jacobs Management Group. Dive deep into the pivotal concepts of niching down, leading with empathy, and leveraging technology to drive sustained results.

You will discover:

1. The Unmatched Value of Niching: Learn how Cari’s unwavering focus in pharmaceutical, biotech, medical device, and diagnostics has created brand authority, relationship depth, and lightning-fast talent pipelines.
2. Leadership with Heart: Explore Cari’s team-building philosophy, annual impact-sharing rituals, and the essential blend of drive and compassion in long-term elite recruiters.
3. Innovative Marketing & Data Practices: Unlock actionable tips on building industry surveys, launching branded magazines, and sustaining omnipresent credibility through content and outreach. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to lead a recruiting firm to new heights, this episode is packed with frameworks and real-world stories to level up your impact and income. Listen now for inspiration, tactical advice, and a masterclass in standing out as a niche recruiting leader.

Pinnacle Society: https://pinnaclesociety.org/

Follow Cari Kraft on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/topmedicaldevicerecruiter/

What does it take to rebound after life throws you a curveball? In this inspiring episode of the Pinnacle Take Podcast, host Benjamin Mena welcomes veteran recruiter Rich Bradley, whose remarkable story blends perseverance, career excellence, and profound personal challenges. With over 43 years of recruiting experience and a legacy as a million-dollar biller, Rich opens up about his journey from leading high-performing teams to navigating a daunting cancer diagnosis—all while maintaining his standards of success.

Discover how Rich leveraged relentless optimism, rigorous KPIs, and old-school recruiting techniques to rebuild his desk after health setbacks and extended travel. Listeners will gain powerful insights into effective business development, the importance of metrics in sustaining top performance, and how community support like the Pinnacle Society fuels resilience and growth in tough times.

In this episode:

1. Reclaiming Success After Setbacks: Learn Rich’s actionable strategies to revive a desk and rebuild momentum, no matter the circumstances.
2. The Power of Community and Mentorship: Hear how strong industry networks provide crucial support during personal and professional battles.
3. Timeless Recruiting Habits for Modern Results: Old-school phone work, rigorous planning, and the discipline behind long-term billing consistency.

Tune in for motivation, practical advice, and the real story behind overcoming adversity in recruiting.

The Pinnacle Society: https://pinnaclesociety.org/

Rich Bradley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richbradley/

Feeling overwhelmed in your recruiting career? Need actionable wisdom to embrace resilience and discipline? In this transformative episode of the Pinnacle Take Podcast, our host Benjamin Mena sits down with veteran recruiter Cathy Stewart, who shares her compelling journey from facing professional setbacks to becoming one of the top billers in the United States. Cathy’s recruitment adventure, which began in the challenging era of the Great Recession, has been marked by moments of reinvention and renewed success. Through her focus on the senior living niche, Cathy reveals how overcoming adversity can be a platform for personal and professional growth. This episode is a must-listen for recruitment professionals aiming to harness discipline and resilience as tools for success.

1. Cathy Stewart's Unique Recruitment Journey: Learn how Cathy pivoted from a background in music education and multi-level marketing to trailblazing in the senior living recruitment sector. Her transition highlights the adaptability and persistence required in the industry.
2. The Art of Staying Disciplined: Discover Cathy's strategy of finding "two candidates a day" as a benchmark for maintaining productivity and staying aligned with professional goals. Her focus on daily habits and consistency is crucial for aspiring top billers.
3. Leverage Human Behavior for Success: Cathy shares insights on disc profiling and understanding human behavior as a vital recruiting tool, emphasizing the importance of tailoring communication to meet diverse client and candidate needs.

Uncover the power of grit and persistence with Cathy Stewart's invaluable insights. Listen now to redefine your approach and achieve sustained success in your recruiting journey.

Pinnacle Society: https://pinnaclesociety.org/

Cathy Stewart LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathy-stewart-338b871a/

Step into the future of recruiting with this transformative episode of the Pinnacle Take Podcast. Join host Benjamin Mena as he welcomes Fernando Espinosa, a renowned recruiter with 30 years of experience across the Americas, who shares a revolutionary approach to talent management. This episode uncovers the secrets behind

Espinosa's innovative methodology - Talent Meta Management - and how it's reshaping business development and client success in the recruitment industry.

1. Unlocking Talent Meta Management**: Discover Fernando’s holistic approach that sees beyond traditional silos of skills, integrating cognitive, emotional, cultural, and technological competencies into a dynamic ecosystem. This method is crucial for recruiters looking to adapt and thrive amidst rapid global changes in technology and workforce expectations.
2. Strategic Advice for Reinvention**: Gain invaluable insights on how COVID-19 catalyzed a need for paradigm shifts in the workplace. Espinosa reveals actionable strategies for recruiters to reinvent themselves, emphasizing the importance of blending human intelligence with emerging technologies such as AI and agile learning methodologies.
3. Building a Global Recruitment Vision**: From starting as a translator to becoming a million-dollar biller, Fernando shares his journey and the pivotal role of cultural intelligence in global recruitment. Learn how to harness these insights to enhance your recruitment practices and elevate your client interactions globally.

Tune in to this engaging discussion and equip yourself with cutting-edge strategies to propel your recruiting career forward. Listen now to redefine how you approach talent acquisition and management!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fernandoespinosa/

Pinnacle Society:  https://pinnaclesociety.org/

Are you seeking to elevate your recruiting practice and secure enduring success in the industry? Discover the transition from contingent to retained recruiting that can redefine your professional journey. In this episode of the Pinnacle Take Podcast, our host Benjamin Mena is joined by distinguished recruiter Sharon Hulce, who shares her exceptional strategy behind managing a $1.4 million desk while simultaneously leading a team and giving back to the community. Known as the first female construction recruiter in the U.S., Sharon's journey is a testament to her resilience and strategic acumen.

This episode offers invaluable insights for recruiters and recruitment firm owners ready to shift toward a retained business model. Sharon details her strategic evolution from contingent recruiting and emphasizes the importance of building strong client relationships and developing a distinct recruitment process.

1. Navigating Retained Recruiting: Listen as Sharon shares her experiences in shifting her business model from contingent to fully retained, highlighting how this pivotal move and her defined processes have been critical success factors.
2. Strategic Client Engagement: Gain insights into Sharon's enduring client relationships. Learn her secrets to long-term success, including providing unparalleled client service, tailoring solutions, and maintaining open lines of communication.
3. Creating Impact Beyond Business: Sharon not only excels at recruiting but also gives back significantly through her philanthropic efforts. Discover how integrating community support into her business model has been an inspiring aspect of her career.

Unlock world-class recruiting insights and leadership strategies with Sharon Hulce. This episode is your gateway to innovating your recruitment practice, bulking up your business, and making an indelible mark within the recruitment industry. Listen now to transform your approach and achieve unprecedented growth in your recruitment endeavors.

Sharon Hulce’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharonhulce/

Pinnacle Society: https://pinnaclesociety.org/