What does it take to climb a 40-foot pole in record time — with your reputation (and bragging rights) on the line?

In this episode of SMECO Connects, host Sonja Cox and co-host Tom Dennison sit down with linemen John King, Doug Hancock, and apprentices Cameron Russell and Josh Morris. Together, they pull back the curtain on the electrifying world of the Lineman’s Rodeo — a high-stakes competition where skill, speed, and safety collide.

• Discover the heart-pounding events like Hurt Man Rescue and obstacle climbs
  
  

• Learn how camaraderie and a brotherhood of linemen fuel both competition and real-life mutual aid during storms
  
  

• Hear why apprentices keep coming back, even after tough first years
  
  

• Peek behind the scenes at traditions like t-shirt swapping and the competitive BBQ showdown
  
  

From tales of climbing techniques to stories of lifelong friendships formed under high voltage, this episode is a tribute to the grit, pride, and passion that power our electric grid.

Tune in and feel the spark that keeps the lights on — and the linemen climbing.

🔗 Smeco Instagram: @somdelectric
🔗 Smeco X (Twitter): @somdelectric

Hosted by Sonja Cox and Tom Dennison

What happens when a cybersecurity pro leaves a federal career to build a construction company from the ground up—with zero industry experience?

Meet Allison Drury, CEO of CAD Industries, a woman-owned underground utility business shaking up a male-dominated field. From buying her first drill after landing the job to leading complex projects for the National Zoo and regional governments, Allison proves that grit, mindset, and relentless drive can beat credentials any day.

In this episode, Allison opens up about:

• Taking the leap from government GS-14 to entrepreneur
  
  

• Building credibility as a woman in construction
  
  

• Balancing family, leadership, and risk in real-time
  
  

• Growing a regional business with national brand ambitions
  
  

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, working parent, or just need a reminder that it’s possible—this one’s for you.

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Instagram: @somdelectric
X (Twitter): @somdelectric

You might wonder why an electric company is doing a podcast about mental health, but as a cooperative, we care about what’s going on in the community and with our members and how we can help them find resources they may need. That’s why this week’s episode is so important. Karl Webner, Clinical Program Manager at the Saint Mary’s County Health Department, joins the podcast to talk about the Health Hub, a walk-in, no-cost behavioral health center offering short-term counseling, addiction treatment, and care navigation.

Whether you’re navigating mental health challenges or supporting someone who is, this episode is a powerful reminder that compassionate, personalized help is available—often right in your neighborhood.

St. Mary’s County Health Department Health Hub: hub.smchd.org