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Published by Troy Latuff
The Blue Collar Trades Show is where hard work meets real talk and a little controlled chaos, usually held together with duct tape. Hosted by Troy, Jim, Chad, and Marissa (four very different personalities who somehow make it work), the show brings together business owners, tradespeople, veterans, and everyday folks from a wide range of industries and backgrounds. Expect honest conversations about building careers, businesses, and lives, along with real stories, practical lessons, occasional sarcasm, and plenty of laughs- without the corporate buzzwords or polished nonsense. It’s all about doing great work, treating people right, and having some fun while we’re at it.
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Summary In this episode, Adam Skorstad shares his extensive experience in the trades industry, from technical roles to leadership and coaching. He discusses the importance of systems, leadership development, and strategic growth for contractors aiming to scale their businesses successfully. Key Topics Adam Skorstad's background and journey in the trades industry Importance of systems and processes in business growth Leadership development and team management Strategies for overcoming business plateaus The role of coaching and mentorship in contractor success Financial management and reinvestment strategies The value of training and continuous learning Insights on franchise opportunities and startup capital Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Adam's background in the trades 01:58 Adam's journey from college to trades 03:59 Early career and transition into management 07:00 The importance of continuous learning and growth 09:53 Leadership development and reinventing yourself 15:03 Common pitfalls in contractor business management 20:07 Managing growth and overcoming plateaus 25:03 Financial fundamentals and reinvestment strategies 29:56 Starting a new business and startup capital 34:58 Franchise vs independent startup considerations 39:57 The importance of training, systems, and processes 45:00 Building a strong team and retention strategies 50:11 Coaching, mentorship, and continuous improvement 55:01 Final advice and closing thoughts Connect with Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-skorstad-5530b98a/ https://www.bdrco.com/ Connect with Us: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-blue-collar-recruiter-virtual-trade-school/
In this episode of The Blue Collar Trades Show, Troy Latuff, Chad and Jim sit down with Ben Hansen, known as the Profit Doctor, to talk about what really drives profitability in a blue collar business. Ben shares practical insights on identifying and patching profit leaks, understanding the numbers behind your business, tracking project profitability, and making smarter decisions about the customers, projects, and markets you pursue. Troy, Chad, Jim and Ben also dig into common misconceptions about profit margins in the trades, the impact of owner compensation on the numbers, and why generating more revenue doesn’t always mean making more money. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Profit Doctor and his background 04:07 The importance of understanding profitability in blue-collar trades 06:07 The three buckets of profitability: top, middle, and bottom thirds 08:03 Debunking profit margin myths in construction and the trades 09:59 Average net profitability in trades businesses and industry benchmarks 11:55 The importance of accurate financial data and accounting methods 14:56 Common profit leaks and how to patch them 17:59 The impact of owner compensation on perceived profitability 21:12 Customer selection and its effect on business profitability 23:51 Strategies for improving profit through leak detection and patching 27:00 Project and customer selection as key profit drivers 29:53 The importance of choosing the right projects and markets 34:06 How to evaluate project profitability and avoid costly mistakes 37:00 The significance of project selection and its impact on the bottom line 37:56 Final thoughts on improving profitability in trades businesses Connect with Ben Hansen Website: https://profitdoctor.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benhansen/ Follow The Blue Collar Trades Show Website: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-blue-collar-recruiter-virtual-trade-school/
In this episode, Matt Fishbune, CEO of Duke’s, shares his journey from sports to underground infrastructure, the importance of character in hiring, and the fascinating world of trenchless sewer repair. Discover how innovative techniques are transforming city maintenance, what it takes to build a successful business in this niche industry, and how AI, sensors, drones, and other emerging technologies could shape the future of underground infrastructure. Key Topics · Matt Fishbune's background in sports and transition to infrastructure · The importance of character in hiring for trades · Techniques and innovations in trenchless sewer repair · Challenges of aging infrastructure and solutions · Building a successful business in underground infrastructure · The role of technology in city maintenance · Character over competency in team building · Historical insights into sewer systems and materials Underground water and sewer systems · The role of gravity and pump stations in water flow · Infrastructure maintenance and capacity issues · Impact of AI on inspection and assessment · Future technologies like drones, sensors, and laser lidar · The importance of skilled trades and workforce development Takeaways · Character and attitude are more important than technical skills in hiring. · Always be hiring to stay ahead and avoid scrambling for talent. · Ask specific questions about past failures to assess accountability. · Most of the sewer infrastructure in the US is past its useful life. · Innovative trenchless methods can fix infrastructure without digging up streets. · Understanding the history of infrastructure helps appreciate current challenges. · Building relationships and reputation is key in niche industries. · Technology and proactive maintenance extend the life of infrastructure. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest background 02:02 Matt's sports background and transition from athletics 03:56 Introduction to trenchless sewer rehabilitation 06:58 Character in hiring and team building 10:57 Interview questions to assess accountability 14:59 The importance of always being in hiring mode 19:59 Matt’s family and their athletic achievements 21:59 History and evolution of Dukes and trenchless technology 25:03 Chemical solutions and service offerings 28:02 Service areas and industry growth 29:59 Longevity of infrastructure and historical systems 34:00 Water quality, safety, and infrastructure challenges Connect With Our Guest Learn more about Duke’s and connect with Matt: Duke’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/duke's-root-control-inc./ Matt Fishbune on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattfishbune/ Duke’s Website: https://www.dukes.com/
Jamie Gerdsen, founder of G5 Ventures, shares his path from third-generation HVAC roots to sales leadership, business ownership, private equity, and building his next chapter with G5 Ventures. We dig into what actually drives growth in the trades: hiring, lead flow, culture, cash flow, and putting people first. Jamie also breaks down why great sales still comes back to trust and follow-up, what owners underestimate about scaling, lessons from a near payroll crisis, and why he ultimately chose Main Street entrepreneurship over corporate life. Timestamps 00:00 - Opening and women in the trades 01:52 - Why technicians underestimate business ownership 04:07 - Jamie’s third-generation HVAC roots 07:18 - Residential sales and lead generation 09:32 - Building a systematic sales process 13:42 - Hunger, responsibility, and sales performance 15:06 - Authenticity and trust in selling 18:12 - Making it easier for customers to buy 21:55 - Growing up in the trades 24:36 - Hiring, apprenticeships, and scaling 29:11 - Fixing culture and putting employees first 33:04 - Leadership lessons from rowing 36:51 - The cash flow scare 38:50 - Why Jamie sold his company 41:45 - Moving into private equity and Turnpoint 45:40 - Launching G5 49:44 - From operator to systems architect 53:24 - Why perceptions of the trades are changing 59:06 - G5’s five-year vision 63:03 - Wealth, freedom, and defining “rich” 65:11 - Advice for young people 68:12 - Giving back and learning from failure 69:24 - Apprenticeships and the future of the trades 72:16 - Closing remarks Connect with Jamie Website: https://g5ventures.com/ https://www.jamiegerdsen.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiegerdsen/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/g5ventures/ Connect with us Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebluecollarrecruiter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tbcr_vts LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-blue-collar-recruiter-virtual-trade-school Have a question, an idea for the show or know someone we should have on? Reach out, we’d love to hear from you! Key topics · Why field experience alone doesn’t prepare you to run a business · Old-school sales habits that still work: curiosity, objection handling, notes, and follow-up · Why authenticity beats pushing the most expensive option · Hiring ahead of growth and building a people-first culture · The cash flow mistake that nearly created a payroll crisis · Lessons from selling his company and moving into private equity · Why Jamie returned to entrepreneurship and launched G5 · The growing career opportunity in the skilled trades · Building businesses that create long-term opportunity for employees and families
In this episode of the Blue Collar Trades Show, Troy, Jim, Marissa, and Jason Luo, CEO of Newo AI, explore how AI is changing customer communication for home service businesses. Jason shares how Newo AI helps HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and other service companies answer inbound calls, follow up with leads, and manage customer conversations using human-like voice AI. The group discusses the cost of missed calls, after-hours coverage, multilingual support, natural conversations, and how AI can be trained on a company’s website, FAQs, and internal knowledge. They also explore outbound uses like lead nurturing and recruiting, plus Newo’s pricing and trial options. Jason closes with his vision for AI in the trades… not replacing technicians, but helping owners and teams save time, improve operations, and focus on the work and customers that matter most. Chapter Breakdown 00:00 Intro and light banter 03:03 Jason introduces Newo and explains the company’s focus 05:56 Jason’s background in technology and home services 10:40 Why missed calls are such a big problem for trades businesses 14:26 How Newo’s AI receptionist works 17:16 Measuring call success and routing intent 18:36 How the AI handles pushback and awkward caller moments 19:32 Why Newo’s speech-to-speech system is different 23:34 Integrations, orchestration, and reducing hallucinations 27:30 Caller recognition, success rates, and missed revenue 32:40 Outbound calling, lead follow-up, and prospecting 35:28 Multi-channel support: voice, chat, email, and SMS 41:13 Recruiting use cases and candidate follow-up 44:38 Pricing, free trial, and enterprise options 49:55 What’s next for AI receptionists 56:54 Final thoughts and closing pitch Key Takeaways · Missed calls are a major revenue leak for home service businesses. · Voice AI can answer and route calls faster than traditional IVR systems. · Newo uses speech-to-speech AI for more natural conversations. · The system can support inbound, outbound, chat, email, and recruiting workflows. · AI may soon become a daily operational advisor for small businesses. Topics · Home services · HVAC, plumbing, and electrical businesses · AI receptionist technology · Missed call revenue · Call routing and lead management · Outbound prospecting · Recruiting automation · Voicemail detection · Customer experience · Future of AI in small business
In this episode, Chris Buttenham, co-founder of REINS, shares his entrepreneurial journey from growing up in a blue collar family in small-town Canada to building and exiting successful businesses. Chris dives into the realities of entrepreneurship, the mindset required to succeed, and the massive opportunities emerging as baby boomer business owners prepare to retire. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, business owner, or someone interested in business acquisitions and employee ownership, this conversation is packed with practical insights and hard-earned lessons. In This Episode: · Chris shares how his father's security business influenced his entrepreneurial mindset · The story behind launching his first company as a teenager and later building a software business · Lessons learned from selling a company and what came next · Why Chris believes entrepreneurship is often an innate trait · The inspiration behind founding REINS and helping business owners implement employee ownership programs · A discussion on the challenges entrepreneurs face that most people never see · Insights into the business succession crisis impacting retiring baby boomers · Real-world examples of how ownership incentives transform employee behavior and company performance · Why entrepreneurs should focus on solving problems and spotting trends before others do Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and welcome 02:15 - Chris's upbringing in a blue-collar family 05:08 - Learning entrepreneurship through his father's business 08:42 - Starting his first company at age 15 12:16 - Flunking out of business school and finding another path 16:03 - Building and scaling his first software company 20:44 - Selling a business and what's next 24:18 - The opportunity behind the "Silver Tsunami" 29:37 - Why retiring business owners create opportunities for entrepreneurs 33:54 - Are entrepreneurs born or made? 39:42 - How employee ownership improves retention and profitability 45:10 - Real examples of employees thinking like owners 50:28 - The misconceptions and sacrifices of entrepreneurship 56:17 - Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs 60:34 - Final thoughts and key takeaways Resources & Links: www.thebluecollarrecruiter.com www.BCRecruits.com Connect with Chris: REINS: www.myreins.com LinkedIn: Chris Buttenham Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myreins Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reinstechnologies
Jenny Benbrook joins The Blue Collar Trade Show to unpack one of the biggest money pits in the contracting industry: software that gets bought but never gets used right. From her journey through the skilled trades industry to co-founding Powerhouse Consulting Group, one of the first consulting firms built to help contractors get real value out of platforms like ServiceTitan, Jenny breaks down why technology investments fail and what it takes to make them pay. The conversation digs into the unglamorous foundation of every successful software rollout: data hygiene. Jenny explains why dirty data quietly kills ROI, why most contractors only scratch the surface of what their platforms can do, and why a well-structured price book is the backbone of pricing, sales, and reporting. She also covers the most common challenges businesses hit with ServiceTitan and why expert guidance during implementation saves contractors months of frustration. The back half gets into the bigger picture: how the trades industry handles change, why intentional investment beats impulse software purchases, and how contractors should evaluate and plan their tech stack before signing another contract. What This Episode Covers: Jenny's journey through the skilled trades industry and into software consulting. The founding of Powerhouse and how software consulting for contractors became its own category. Why data hygiene is the silent killer of software adoption and ROI. The most common challenges contractors face with ServiceTitan. Why a well-structured price book matters more than most owners realize. How technology drives real business growth when implementation is done right. The role of change management in successful software adoption. How to evaluate and plan a tech stack with intention instead of impulse. Key Takeaways: Buying software is step one. Implementation, training, and optimization are where the dividends come from. Dirty data compounds. Clean it early or pay for it later. Your price book is the foundation of pricing, sales, and reporting. Structure it right. Change management is not optional. Your team adopting the tool is the whole game. Intentional investment beats reactive purchasing every time. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Location 06:11 Jenny's Involvement in the Founding of Powerhouse 13:59 Pioneering Software Consulting for Contractors 21:00 Data Hygiene and Software Adoption Challenges 26:15 Challenges with ServiceTitan 32:55 The Importance of a Well-Structured Price Book 43:34 The Value of Technology in Driving Business Growth 53:04 The Impact of Change in the Trades Industry 01:00:10 Tech Stack Planning and Evaluation Want to learn more about Powerhouse Consulting Group? LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennybenbrook/ Website: https://mypowerhouse.group/ Looking to hire skilled trades talent or find your next opportunity? Visit us at https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com and https://bcrecruits.com
In this episode, Spencer from Bradford White shares a deep dive into the evolution of water heaters, industry regulations, and innovative technologies shaping the future. Whether you're a trades professional or just curious about how these appliances impact energy efficiency and safety, this conversation covers it all. In this episode: Spencer discusses Bradford White’s rich history dating back to 1881 and their pioneering Vitro glass lining in tanks Breakdown of efficiency metrics: AFUE standards, heat pump efficiencies, and the myth of over 100% The shift away from traditional atmospherically vented models toward condensing and hybrid units Regulatory impacts, including the 2015 DOE standards that set unrealistic efficiency goals Practical maintenance tips: checking anode rods, flushing, and component inspections The reasons behind water heaters being installed in attics in some regions and the dangers involved The rise of electric tankless water heaters and their limitations Insights into the manufacturing process and why Bradford White keeps sales wholesale-only Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and overview of episode topic 01:07 - How many monitors do industry professionals use? 02:17 - Does having multiple monitors really boost efficiency? 04:03 - The impact of monitor setups on work productivity 05:06 - Water heater history from the 1800s to modern times 07:34 - How long do water heaters typically last? 09:30 - The origin of water heater technology and early models 11:37 - The introduction of vitro glass lining in tanks 14:22 - Comparing modern water heaters to simple pots over a fire 15:46 - Future innovations in water heater technology 17:02 - Government efficiency standards and their real-world impact 19:16 - The science behind heat pump efficiencies above 100% 21:41 - Cost comparisons: electric versus gas models 22:42 - The role of water softeners in extending water heater life 26:37 - Why anode rods are located under hot outlet nipples 29:37 - The dangers of water heater installation in attics 33:55 - The myth of water heater overpressurization incidents 38:59 - Key considerations for electric tankless water heaters 41:09 - Signs indicating water heater replacement time 46:58 - Routine maintenance and lifecycle expectations 55:42 - The evolution of water heaters and what's next in innovation 58:28 - Advice for young tradespeople considering a career in the industry 62:44 - Recognizing the vital role of trades as frontline workers 63:55 - Final thoughts, company resources, and contact info Resources & Links: Bradford White Official Website www.thebluecollarrecruiter.com www.BCRecruits.com Connect with Spencer: Bradford White LinkedIn
Dan Clapper of Interplay Learning joins The Blue Collar Trades Show to break down one of the most misunderstood ideas in the trades the gap between experience and competency. A tech with ten years on the job isn't automatically better than one with two; what separates them is training, consistency, and the right learning modality. Dan walks through his own path from early exposure to the trades into his work helping businesses close skill gaps with smarter, data-driven training. This conversation gets into why career development is the real driver of retention, how to start with data to find where your team actually needs help, and why pairing hard skills with soft skills is what keeps good techs from walking out the door. Dan also covers what training actually costs versus what it returns, how technicians grow into managers and leaders, and where VR is starting to reshape hands-on training. In This Episode: Dan's journey from early exposure to the trades into his role at Interplay Learning Why career development through training is essential for retention and growth How businesses should start with data to identify skill gaps before building a program The case for focusing on core knowledge and foundational skills first The real difference between experience and competency in HVAC The value of learning modality and what training actually costs versus returns The transition from technician to manager and leader The role of feedback, consistency, and how VR is shaping the future of training Chapters: 00:00 — Challenges and Solutions in Training and Retention 27:46 — Experience vs. Competency 33:12 — The Impact of Training on Technicians and Staff 39:02 — The Value of Training and Learning Modality 45:28 — Transition from Technician to Manager and Leader 51:10 — Passion for Trades and HVAC 56:24 — Favorite Tools and Hobbies 01:02:37 — Use of VR in Training and Future Plans Keywords: HVAC training, technician retention, experience vs competency, skilled trades development, VR training, learning modality Connect With Dan Clapper: Interplay Learning: https://www.interplaylearning.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danclapper/ Connect With Us: https://www.thebluecollarrecruiter.com https://www.bcrecruits.com #BlueCollarTrades #HVACTraining #SkilledTrades #TechnicianTraining #TradesPodcast
Sales consultant Neil Glatt joins The Blue Collar Trade Show to unpack why so many tradespeople struggle on the sales side of their business — and why it almost never has anything to do with product knowledge. After a long career in B2B sales, Neil transitioned into consulting specifically for trades companies, and he's spent years studying what separates top closers from the techs who choke on the price conversation. This episode goes deep on the role of self-limiting beliefs in sales performance, how a tech's personal philosophy about money and selling shows up in every customer interaction, and why most sales training fails to fix it. Neil also breaks down the underrated power of personalized gifting in customer loyalty, how to build a raving fan base inside your company culture, and why understanding individual strengths is the difference between a sales team that grinds and a sales team that compounds. If you've ever wondered why your best technician can't seem to close, or why customers keep slipping away to competitors, this conversation gives you the actual root cause — and the playbook to fix it. What This Episode Covers: Neil's journey from corporate sales into trades sales consulting Why most sales coaching in the trades misses the real problem The role of self-limiting beliefs and how to assess them in your team How personal philosophy shapes every sales interaction The math behind personalized gifting and customer loyalty Building a raving fan culture inside a trades business Why individual strengths matter more than universal sales scripts The digital calendar habit that separates top performers from the rest Key Takeaways: Sales coaching only works when it addresses the underlying beliefs driving performance Self-limiting beliefs about money, worth, and selling kill more deals than any objection Customer relationships compound — small personalized touches drive outsized loyalty A raving fan culture starts inside the company before it ever reaches the customer Individual strengths beat universal sales scripts every time Chapters: 00:00 — The Journey to Sales Consulting 05:49 — The Role of Sales in the Trades Industry 33:03 — The Role of Self-Limiting Beliefs in Sales Performance 58:39 — The Role of Digital Calendar in Sales Success Connect with Neil Glatt: LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/nealglatt/ Website / Company → https://www.nealglatt.com/ Connect with The Blue Collar Trade Show: The Blue Collar Recruiter → https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/ Find Trades Careers at BC Recruits → https://bcrecruits.com Listen on Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/7IRt3IlB1m1pqOOpoLWtas
Longtime industry friend Ron Crabtree joins The Blue Collar Trade Show for an honest conversation about what separates great HVAC service businesses from struggling ones. Ron walks through his path from young technician to seasoned general manager and breaks down why sales is now a non-negotiable skill, how to hire and train techs who can actually communicate with homeowners, and why club memberships are one of the most underrated profit drivers in home services. The conversation digs into the fear most technicians carry into customer conversations, the role training and coaching play in building real confidence, and how that confidence translates into higher tickets and better outcomes. Ron also covers the leap from tech to manager, what KPIs should look like on every repair call, why maintenance is the engine of long-term growth, and what AI is about to do to the industry. Key Takeaways: Sales skills are now a core competency for HVAC techs, not a bonus Confidence is the single biggest factor in whether a tech can make the right recommendation stick Technicians need training that covers maintenance, repairs, AND sales Club memberships drive recurring revenue and customer trust Maintenance is the foundation — repairs and replacements follow from it The new generation of techs needs a different approach, not lower standards AI is coming for the industry; the businesses preparing now will win Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction and Long-Term Acquaintance 04:58 — Youth and Early Career 11:08 — Commercial vs. Residential HVAC Work 17:02 — Assessing Technician Candidates 22:00 — Club Memberships and Technician Training 27:17 — The Importance of Confidence 34:14 — Transition to Management 39:14 — Business Growth and Leadership 46:17 — Expectations on Repair Calls 52:53 — The Importance of Maintenance in Home Services Connect with Ron Crabtree: LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-crabtree-b84752a7/ Connect with The Blue Collar Trade Show: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/ https://bcrecruits.com Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/7IRt3IlB1m1pqOOpoLWtas
Heather Ripley of Ripley PR breaks down how skilled trades and home service businesses can use public relations to build credibility, attract clients, and stand out in a crowded market. Expect actionable strategies, current trends, and media engagement tips built specifically for contractors and franchise owners — not corporate PR theory. If you're a tradesperson or franchise owner who thinks PR is just for big brands with bigger budgets, this episode will change your mind. Timestamps 00:00 — Introduction: Why PR is essential for skilled trades 02:14 — Marketing vs. public relations: the real difference 04:12 — Building trust through credible third-party endorsements 08:54 — Common PR mistakes companies make (and how to avoid them) 11:01 — The power of community involvement and charity for reputation 14:41 — How to use media pitches to land repeat TV and press appearances 18:30 — What's actually newsworthy today 23:58 — The evolving landscape of local news, newspapers, and podcasts 26:11 — Using GEO and AI search to boost local visibility 33:05 — Best first PR moves for new franchisees on a tight budget 37:15 — Media coaching: presentation, messaging, and what to avoid 39:04 — Handling crisis PR and negative stories 44:38 — Proactive reputation management 52:16 — How reality and scripted shows shape public perception 63:50 — Opportunities in emerging niches and unconventional clients 64:12 — Final thoughts: Why local PR should be your top priority Key Takeaways PR ≠ Marketing. Marketing is what you say about yourself. PR is what others say about you — which is why it builds trust faster. Third-party credibility wins. A 30-second local news segment beats a month of paid ads for trust. Community involvement is free PR. Show up, sponsor, serve — the stories follow. Crisis management starts before the crisis. Reputation built in advance is reputation that survives. GEO and AI search are the new local SEO. If you're not optimizing for it, your competitors are. Persistence beats polish. Most businesses pitch once and quit. The ones who keep showing up get the coverage. Resources & Links Next Level Now: A PR Guide for Contractors — Heather Ripley's book on PR strategies for trades Connect with Heather Ripley https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherripley/ RipleyPR.com Connect with Us thebluecollarrecruiter.com
Shelby Anderson of Service Forge sits down with The Blue Collar Trade Show to break down one of the most misunderstood parts of running a contracting business — the call center. This conversation covers why so many contractors resist outsourcing their phones, how Service Forge keeps customer experience human at scale, and what it actually takes to run a call center team that treats every caller like they're calling a family business. Shelby shares her journey into the call center industry, from childhood experiences in her father's business to leading teams that handle thousands of calls for contractors across the country. We get into the messy reality of the work — difficult customers, prank calls, business owners who resist technology — plus the pricing structure and service offerings that make Service Forge flexible for contractors of every size. The conversation also covers how to measure call center success, the challenge of keeping remote employees engaged, and the real role AI should play in customer interactions. What This Episode Covers: Shelby's path from growing up in her father's business into building a career leading call center teams. The biggest misconceptions contractors have about outsourcing their customer calls. How Service Forge structures minute-based pricing for call and chat services, and why flexibility matters for contractors with unpredictable call volume. What balancing work and personal life actually looks like when you're leading a call center team. How Shelby and her team handle difficult customers, prank calls, and high-pressure moments on the phone. Why some business owners resist adopting new technology — and how to work around it. The wide variety of call types and industries Service Forge serves, and how her team trains for that range. How Service Forge measures success beyond call volume — focusing on client outcomes and customer experience. What it takes to keep remote call center employees engaged, motivated, and performing. The role AI plays in modern call center operations — where it helps, and where it destroys the human touch that customers actually want. Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Service Forge and Call Center Misconceptions 07:51 — Balancing Work and Personal Life as a Call Center Leader 13:11 — Handling Difficult Customer Calls and Prank Calls 18:07 — Dealing with Business Owners and Technology Challenges 22:58 — Managing a Diverse Range of Calls and Service Offerings 27:58 — Pricing Structure and Service Offerings of Service Forge 33:02 — Measuring Success in Call Centers 40:02 — Remote Employee Engagement 45:49 — The Role of AI in Call Centers Connect with Shelby Anderson & Service Forge: Website: https://www.serviceforge.com Contact Service Forge: https://www.serviceforge.com/contact Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelby-anderson-1201791a5?trk Follow The Blue Collar Trade Show: Website: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/the-blue-collar-trades-show/ The Blue Collar Recruiter: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com BC Recruits: https://www.bcrecruits.com
Jake Wattenbarger, President and General Manager of Smith & Oby (a Foundral company), walks through his unconventional path from military service into leading one of the Midwest's most respected mechanical contracting companies. This conversation covers the 125+ year history of Smith & Oby, the real challenges of finding and keeping skilled tradespeople, and the cultural shifts reshaping the construction industry. Jake breaks down the three core reasons employees leave a company and the retention framework he's built around culture, operations and growth. We dig into how to speak to different audiences with sincerity, the intentionality behind strong client relationships and why caring is the underrated leadership skill that separates good managers from great ones. He also shares his take on drug policies, AI's impact on the trades and what young people need to hear about career advancement. What This Episode Covers: Jake’s journey from military service to mechanical contracting, plus the legacy of Smith & Oby. Insights into skilled labor shortages, hiring for character over credentials, and industry shifts. Why employees leave—and how alignment, clarity, and trust fix it. The role of culture, operations, and growth in retention. Communication strategies across teams and building strong client relationships. Hot topics like drug policies, AI in the trades, and leadership that actually cares. Practical advice for young professionals looking to grow in the trades. Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction and Background 05:05 — Historical Perspective and Evolution of Mechanical Contracting 10:15 — Discussion on Education and Career Paths 19:14 — Investing in Talent and Work Ethic 25:12 — The Three Pillars of Retention 01:07:44 — Career Advancement About Our Guest: Jake Wattenbarger is the President and General Manager of The Smith & Oby Company, a 125+ year old Midwest-based HVAC and plumbing mechanical contracting firm serving healthcare, education, commercial & industrial, and civic markets. A northeast Ohio native and Youngstown State University graduate, Jake brings over 24 years of engineering, project management, and commercial construction experience to the role. Before taking the helm at Smith & Oby, Jake served in the United States Army and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and held leadership positions at Next Generation Construction, Sodexo, Zurich North America, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. His military background, technical depth, and people-first leadership style have made him a go-to voice on what it actually takes to attract, retain, and develop skilled trades talent in today's construction industry. Connect with Jake Wattenbarger: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakewattenbarger/ Smith & Oby Website (a Foundral company): https://smithandoby.com/ Contact Us: Looking to hire skilled trade talent or find your next opportunity? Visit us at https://www.thebluecollarrecruiter.com Have a guest suggestion or want to come on the show? Reach out — we're always looking for the next great conversation in the trades.
Dave Borowski has spent 20+ years in HVAC — from trade school to running a multimillion-dollar operation to consulting for companies across the industry. In this episode, he breaks down what separates thriving HVAC businesses from struggling ones, why most technicians are leaving money on the table, and how private equity is quietly reshaping the trades landscape for better and worse. From duct design and airflow to recurring revenue models and AI diagnostics, Dave covers the technical and business sides of HVAC with equal depth. Whether you're a tech looking to level up or an owner trying to build a sustainable company, this conversation is packed with actionable insight. In This Episode: Dave's journey from trade school to multimillion-dollar business owner to consultant Why installation quality matters more than equipment brand — and what customers get wrong about SEER ratings Duct design, airflow, and IAQ as the real drivers of system performance and longevity How to build recurring revenue through maintenance contracts and subscription models Private equity in HVAC — opportunities, pitfalls, and the difference between responsible investment and strip mining Training techs in diagnostics, communication, and long-term customer relationships Fieldpiece Bluetooth diagnostics, airflow measurement, and where AI actually fits in the future of HVAC The blue-collar labor shortage and what actually attracts young talent to the trades IAQ improvements: duct sizing, filtration media, and sterilization methods that work Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction and Dave's HVAC journey 02:15 — A 20-year professional partnership in troubleshooting 04:10 — Business support and technical expertise in growth 07:20 — Lessons from owning a multimillion-dollar HVAC business 12:00 — Managing work-life balance and single parenting 16:50 — Training: diagnostic skills and communication 21:24 — Private equity's effect on HVAC companies 26:10 — Duct sizing, airflow, and how installation impacts longevity 33:24 — Myths about HVAC brands and customer misconceptions 37:36 — The pitfalls of Nest thermostats and AI in diagnostics 44:39 — Why ductwork and airflow determine system efficiency 50:04 — Residential vs. commercial technician opportunities 55:53 — How AI assists but doesn't replace core technical knowledge 62:33 — Private equity: responsible investment vs. strip mining 66:11 — Passion for the trade and mentoring new techs 71:19 — Building recurring revenue through maintenance contracts 78:33 — Filter management systems and IAQ innovations 79:26 — Dave's consulting and coaching work today 80:29 — Future outlook: automation, the industry, and attracting youth Connect with Dave Borowski: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-borowski-vp-director-gm-class-a-contractor-814b348/ Connect With Us: Hiring top trade talent: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com Find your next opportunity: https://bcrecruits.com #BlueCollarTrades #HVAC #SkilledTrades #HVACBusiness #TradesLife
This episode digs into two of the most important conversations happening in the trades right now: how safety culture has evolved over the decades, and what it actually takes to build a lasting career in blue-collar work. The conversation opens with an honest look at how the value placed on human life in workplace environments has changed — from compliance-driven rule enforcement to a culture rooted in empathy and mindset. Guest Jason Giefer, a Fall Protection Application Engineer at 3M, breaks down what's driving that shift and why equipment upgrades alone were never enough. From there, the conversation pivots to career development — why having a real plan matters, how being a sponge (asking the right questions, listening to experienced people, absorbing everything) separates those who grow from those who stagnate, and how self-awareness is the foundation of any smart career move. The episode closes with a memorable, no-BS take on pity parties: how long you're allowed to feel sorry for yourself — and why you need to set the end date yourself. Key Takeaways Safety culture has shifted from compliance-first to empathy-first — and that mindset change has saved more lives than any rule update Equipment and regulations matter, but the real driver of safe behavior is how people think about the value of human life Having a clear plan is non-negotiable — vague ambition without direction leads nowhere Being a sponge means actively asking questions, listening to the right people, and staying curious — it's the fastest accelerator for career growth Self-awareness and career alignment are the foundation of long-term satisfaction in the trades Pity parties are okay — but they need an expiration date you choose for yourself Chapters 00:00 — The evolution of safety culture 18:59 — How mindset and empathy changed the game 23:55 — The value of life and the role of equipment 30:30 — Why you need a real plan 56:41 — Being a sponge and building your network 01:08:28 — Safety and wellness at work 01:18:15 — Pity parties: how long is too long? About Jason Giefer Jason Giefer is a Fall Protection Application Engineer at 3M with years of hands-on experience helping companies build safer workplaces. His career spans territory sales, application engineering, rigging and lifting training, and client safety compliance — giving him both a ground-level and systems-level view of how safety culture actually works, and where it breaks down. A University of Minnesota Duluth graduate in Health Education and Public Health and Safety, Jason has made it his mission to close the gap between rules on paper and real behavior on the job. Contact Jason Giefer Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-giefer-2074a816 Contact Us Reach out to us at thebluecollarrecruiter.com/contact
In this episode, we sit down with Juli Blake to talk about what it actually takes to rise through the ranks as a woman in the trades — from her early career and upbringing, to overcoming gender bias, to building a leadership style that gets real results. Where Work Ethic Comes From Juli gets into how her upbringing shaped the way she approaches work — and why she thinks that foundation is something you either build early or spend years trying to catch up on. She doesn't hold back on generational differences either: what's shifted in how people value hard work, and what that means for managers trying to build strong teams today. Breaking Through as a Female Leader in the Trades The trades have historically been a male-dominated space — and Juli lived that reality firsthand. She opens up about the gender bias she faced on her way up, how she navigated it without losing herself, and what female leadership actually looks like when it's done right. This is one of the more honest conversations you'll hear on the topic. Building Trust and Managing People Juli's leadership philosophy isn't built on authority — it's built on partnership. She breaks down how she earns trust with her teams, how she handles the people who push back, and the management strategies she's developed over a career that didn't come with a roadmap. Career Progression, Achievements, and the Hard Moments From dispatcher to general manager, Juli walks through the pivotal moments that defined her climb — the wins, the setbacks, and the self-belief required to keep moving when the path wasn't clear. Workplace Culture and Keeping It Human Juli also gets into what she's built at the team level — the culture, the unique team-building approaches, and why how people feel at work matters just as much as what they produce. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Career Journey 11:03 — Personal Life and Family 18:18 — Female Leadership in the Trades 25:12 — Work Ethic and Upbringing 46:00 — Overcoming Gender Bias in the Trades 52:48 — Career Progression and Achievements 59:34 — Leadership and Management 01:06:00 — Workplace Culture Connect With Juli Blake Website: https://www.onehourheatandair.com/pompano-beach/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juli-blake-b27a7b12b/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OneHourPompano Learn More About Us The Blue Collar Recruiter → https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com Find Trades Careers → https://bcrecruits.com Listen to The Blue Collar Trades Show → https://open.spotify.com/show/7IRt3IlB1m1pqOOpoLWtas
In this episode, we dive deep with Steve on what it actually takes to build a lasting recruiting business, why letting go is the hardest (and most important) move a founder can make, and why great recruiters will never be replaced by technology. What This Episode Covers: Steve's background and how he got into recruiting How the family business was built — and evolved over time The BLT party story (yes, it's as good as it sounds) What happened when Steve finally let go of control Why the recruiting industry is harder than it looks from the outside How AI is reshaping hiring — and where it falls flat The future of resumes and candidate experience Why recruiting is one of the most personally meaningful careers out there Key Takeaways: Recruiters don't just fill jobs — they change the trajectory of people's lives Business growth often requires the founder to step back, not push harder AI will reshape recruiting workflows, but human judgment still closes the deal The trades bring a perspective to hiring that most corporate recruiters never develop Candidate experience is broken — and the industry knows it Chapters: 00:00 — Family Business and Business Evolution 18:50 — The Impact of Letting Go 24:25 — Understanding the Recruiting Industry 30:07 — Consulting and Client Collaboration 37:45 — The Transition in the Recruiting Industry 43:51 — The Future of Resumes and Candidate Experience 49:27 — Business Growth and Evolution 54:28 — Challenges in the Recruiting Industry Connect With Us: Website: thebluecollarrecruiter.com Job Seekers: bcrecruits.com
Our Guest Sandra Brown shares her journey from welding and boilermaking to millwrighting — the challenges, risks, rewards, and the unique perspective women bring to the trades. Sandra makes a compelling case for why more women should seriously consider a career in skilled trades, and she does it with honesty, humor, and zero sugarcoating. We cover the technical side of welding different materials, what it’s actually like being a woman in a male-dominated industry, workplace culture, hilarious on-the-job stories, and Sandra’s future aspirations. If you’ve ever wondered whether the trades are a path worth taking, this episode answers that question directly. What This Episode Covers: Why skilled trades offer lucrative and stable career opportunities for women. Sandra’s journey from welding and boilermaking into millwrighting and what that transition looked like. The challenges of welding different materials and what makes stainless steel her passion. What it’s actually like being a woman on a job site in a male-dominated industry. The unique problem-solving perspective women bring to trade environments. Workplace culture in the trades — the good, the funny, and the real. Hilarious on-the-job anecdotes including the legendary underwear incident. Sandra’s future aspirations and where she sees her career heading. Why more women should consider skilled trades as a serious career path. TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 – Encouraging Women to Pursue Careers in the Trades 27:19 – Future Aspirations of the Guest 39:20 – Humorous Anecdotes from the World of Welding and Mill Work 44:32 – Workplace Culture and Humor 50:04 – The Underwear Incident and Lighthearted Banter 56:18 – Encouraging Women in Trades and Personal Anecdotes HOW TO CONTACT OUR GUEST: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/girlsmakebetterwelders CONTACT US: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/ MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SKILLED TRADES: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/best-and-worst-skilled-trades-2026-salaries-job-outlook/
What's it really like being married to a blue-collar worker? This episode explores the unique dynamics of relationships with tradespeople—the support required at home, balancing demanding work schedules with family life, the pride and provider mindset that drives blue-collar workers, and why many people find trades workers attractive partners. We also discuss blue-collar tools and safety, the investment required to build a trades career, and future prospects in skilled trades industries. What This Episode Covers: The realities of supporting a blue-collar worker at home and family life balance. The pride, attitude, and provider mindset common among trades workers. Why people are attracted to blue-collar workers and relationship dynamics. How blue-collar workers influence home projects and household decisions. The perception of blue-collar workers in modern society. Thoughtful gestures and relationship dynamics unique to trades marriages. Marriage longevity and maintaining strong relationships with demanding work schedules. Quality time, activities, and surprise gestures that strengthen trades relationships. The importance of humor and fun in blue-collar marriages. Blue-collar tools: wire stripping, multimeters, temperature measurement, and applications. Safety considerations in blue-collar jobs and protecting workers. Interest in blue-collar trades and what draws people to these careers. Investment required for a blue-collar career: training, tools, certifications. Future prospects and challenges in skilled trades work. Key Takeaways: Supporting a blue-collar worker requires understanding demanding schedules and physical work. The provider mindset and pride in trades work shapes relationship dynamics. Thoughtful gestures and quality time matter more than expensive dates. Safety is critical in blue-collar jobs—proper tools and training protect workers. Investing in a trades career offers strong future prospects despite challenges. Timestamps: 00:00 – The Other Side of Blue Collar Life 05:57 – The Sensitivity and Provider Mindset of Blue Collar Workers 12:08 – The Attraction to Blue Collar Workers 18:05 – The Perception of Blue Collar Workers 24:04 – The Role of Blue Collar Workers in Home Projects 29:17 – Marriage and Longevity 38:02 – Surprise Gestures 44:11 – Understanding Wire Stripping and Tools for Wiring 50:27 – Multimeter and Temperature Measurement 56:41 – Investment in Blue-Collar Contact Our Guest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/autumn.escoe Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autumnescoe/ Learn More: The Blue Collar Recruiter: https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/ Contact Us: Questions about skilled trades careers or relationships with blue-collar workers? https://thebluecollarrecruiter.com/
Ranking source
Apple Podcasts rankings via the Mato Topic Intelligence Platform.
Observed September 10, 2026. Cached outside the daily freshness window; the positions keep the date they were taken on.
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