TheTradesPodcast.com

What if the future of the home services industry isn't just about repairing homes, but also transforming the way contractors and homeowners work together? In this episode of The Trades Podcast , hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres sit down with Andreina Leal-Carrillo , CEO and Co-Founder of The Repair Tech , to discuss how technology, innovation, and customer-first thinking are redefining the restora...

What does it take to transform adversity into purpose and build a life dedicated to inspiring others? Demi shares her remarkable journey of overcoming life's challenges while building a career centered on helping others unlock their potential. Through authentic storytelling and hard-earned life lessons, she explains how resilience, mindset, and intentional leadership can create opportunities in bu...

In this episode, Jeff and Danny welcome Jeff Kip , CEO of Angi , for a conversation about the future of home services and the role technology plays in connecting homeowners with qualified professionals. Jeff discusses Angi's mission to simplify the home improvement process while helping contractors reach more customers and grow their businesses. The discussion covers the changing expectations of h...

DJ Danny Torres and Jeff Mudd discuss the impact of delayed hiring on contractors, the financial implications of understaffing, and the importance of strategic hiring decisions. They explore apprenticeship programs, the role of technology in hiring, and the integration of office administrators to improve business efficiency. The conversation delves into the impact of technology on business growth,...

In this episode, Jeff and Danny welcome Nichole Ovens from Resource Innovations to discuss how innovation, workforce development, and energy programs are helping transform the skilled trades landscape. Nichole explains how Resource Innovations works with utilities, contractors, businesses, and communities to implement programs that improve energy efficiency while creating economic and workforce op...

The conversation explores the rising enrollments in skilled trades programs at community colleges, the importance of community colleges in addressing the skilled trade shortage, and the challenges and opportunities in training and educating young talent in the trades. It also delves into the impact of trades education on students, the camaraderie and connection in the trades, addressing workforce...

In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Jessica and Jo of Harts Services to discuss leadership, culture, and the evolving world of home services. The conversation explores how Harts Services has built a reputation for quality workmanship and exceptional customer service across plumbing, sewer, electrical, and HVAC services. Jessica and Jo share insights into team development, employee retent...

The conversation covers the impact of technology on the trades, focusing on safety and training. It delves into Amanda Long's background, the types of cranes and their applications, the role of crane operators, the impact of VR on training and recruitment, challenges in safety measures and training, and the future of safety and training in the trades. Takeaways Technology's Impact on the Trades Sa...

Recorded live at Estrella Venue, this milestone episode features an inspiring conversation with industry professionals April Edwards, Cheryl Robertson, Sara Graves, and Nina Ridgley. Together, the panel dives into leadership, workforce development, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and the evolving opportunities available within the skilled trades. Each guest shares real-world experiences, lessons lea...

In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Jason Napolski , CEO of A-Tex Pest Management , to discuss how a locally owned pest control company continues to grow while maintaining a strong hometown approach to customer care. Jason explains how A-Tex focuses on customized pest solutions, ongoing technician training, and creating systems that allow the business to scale without sacrificing service...

In this episode, Jeff and Danny explore current workforce data and projections from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , focusing on the growing demand for skilled trades professionals across the United States. They discuss how industries like construction, energy, and infrastructure are creating increased demand for roles such as welders, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC techni...

What does it take to grow a third-generation family business while staying ahead of industry disruption, technology, and customer expectations? In this episode of The Trades Podcast , hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres sit down with Scott Levene, Vice President of LevCo , to explore how a family-owned HVAC, heating oil, propane, and home comfort company has successfully evolved across generations. S...

The Trades Podcast discusses employee retention, company culture, and the importance of clear roles and responsibilities. It explores the use of KPIs, career ladders, and the significance of a company's mission and values. The podcast emphasizes the role of employer branding and online presence in becoming the employer of choice. The conversation covers topics related to building a cohesive brand,...

In the world of home service businesses, most owners feel like they’re fighting a never-ending battle, juggling calls, managing crews, chasing profits. What if you could lead like a warrior instead of just surviving the war? In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres sit down with Jason Noel, Master Advisor at CEO Warrior, a transformative organization that helps servi...

In this episode, Jeff and Danny explore the current state of contractor advocacy with Mark Valentini and Taylor Bray , focusing on the most pressing legislative issues impacting the plumbing and HVAC trades. The conversation covers: Federal water heater efficiency and DOE regulation updates How PHCC advocates for consumer energy choice and natural gas access Apprenticeship funding and workforce de...

In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Danny and Jeff delve into the current labor market statistics for the trades industry, highlighting the significant job openings and the challenges in filling these positions. They discuss the impact of retiring workers, the importance of knowledge transfer to younger generations, and the lucrative opportunities available in skilled trades such as elect...

In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Chris Koch , a Head Coach and Trainer at Business Development Resources , to discuss how trades businesses can build stronger teams and more profitable operations. Chris draws from decades of experience in HVAC and plumbing service companies, where he worked across service, installation, sales, and management roles before becoming a coach and trainer f...

What if the future of success isn’t found behind a screen, but in the power of learning how to build, fix, and create? In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres sit down with entrepreneur and author Zachary Craig Hanson to discuss the powerful ideas behind his book, The Trade Gap: Break the Rules. Learn a Skill. Own Your Future. In this episode of The Trades Podcast,...

In this episode of the Trades Podcast, hosts Danny and Jeff welcome Shonna Jordan, a serial entrepreneur and marketing expert. They discuss Shonna's journey into entrepreneurship, the importance of networking, and the unique approach of the Good Old Gals network. Shonna shares valuable insights on timeless marketing strategies, event planning, and the innovative life-saving device her company prod...

What if the future of the trades looked more inclusive, more empowered, and more confident than ever before? In this episode of The Trades Podcast , hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres sit down with Talena Handley , CEO of Girlie Garage , to explore how passion, purpose, and community are redefining what it means to be a woman in the skilled trades. In this episode, Jeff and Danny talk with Talena Ha...

Rafael shares the story behind Lefty’s Plumbing Services and how a commitment to reliability, quality workmanship, and strong communication has helped the company stand out in a competitive market. From handling everyday service calls to tackling complex plumbing challenges, Rafael explains how consistency, training, and leadership play a critical role in building a company that customers return t...

Drawing from conversations with industry leaders, contractors, and educators, Jeff and Danny break down what today’s workforce is really looking for, from meaningful career paths and strong mentorship to modern training and a positive company culture. They share practical ideas that business owners can implement right away to build teams that stay motivated, loyal, and proud of their craft. In thi...

In this episode, Jeff and Danny talk with Tommy Holstein , CEO of Solid Ground STL, about the challenges and rewards of leading a construction and foundation repair company. Tommy explains why attention to detail, honesty with customers, and strong internal culture are essential in an industry where trust and safety matter most. The conversation explores leadership under pressure, growing a skille...

In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Jeff and Danny welcome Kathy Denton from Berger Hardware, who shares her extensive experience in the door hardware industry. Kathy discusses her journey from being a client to working at Berger Hardware for over 32 years. She highlights the transition to their new location in Encinitas, the unique showroom experience, and the importance of building rela...

In this episode, Jeff and Danny talk with Greg Schmitt about how he built Huge Handyman SD into one of San Diego’s go-to handyman service companies. Greg explains the importance of communication, integrity, and skill when working inside a customer’s home. He also shares how he built a service model that focuses on solving problems quickly and correctly while giving homeowners peace of mind. You wi...