The Construction Life

🎄✨ This festive episode of The Construction Life features the one and only Santa Stevie @steviejust4laughs, bringing holiday cheer and plenty of laughs back to the studio! Fresh off his successful stand-up show , Stevie is feeling relaxed, recharged, and ready to share his signature blend of humor with all of you. 🎤🎉 From hilarious Portuguese jokes to heartfelt holiday messages, Stevie’s infec...

🔨✨ In this special three-in-one episode of The Construction Life Podcast, we sit down with the multi-talented Taylor Francis to uncover his incredible journey through the trades world and beyond. 🚀💡 💻 Part 1: Contract App It all started with a client refusing to pay , leading Taylor to develop an app that’s changing the game for tradespeople. Say goodbye to unpaid invoices and hello to stream...

In this latest episode of TNT, Alberto Rocha returns alongside co-host Jonathan Cinelli to dive deep into the physical and mental challenges faced by tradespeople. From the constant strain of running a business to the physical toll of swinging the hammer, the panel explores practical solutions for managing stress, fatigue, and recovery. Discover the secrets to building a stronger body, achieving b...

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… or is it? 🎁✨ This special holiday edition of Safety Corner takes a hilarious and eye-opening turn when Phill arrives on site and discovers Steve Melo from @steviejustforlaughs not playing it safe. 🎬⚠️ From improper PPE to creative misuses of equipment, Steve brings his unique “interpretation” of safety to the job site—all while communicating in his own...

In this episode, we break down the complex world of safety regulations, exploring the many agencies and their acronyms that govern job site safety. From enforcement protocols to the hefty fines you could face for ignoring regulations, we simplify the maze of rules and explain what every contractor and tradesperson needs to know to stay compliant and keep their team safe. Tune in for real insights...

In this episode of The Construction Life , we sit down with Kosta, Johny and Charlie the driving force behind streamlining iPLUMB Inc., a plumbing company. What began as a strategic overhaul of their operations became so impactful that they decided to package their process into an app called Jobtable, now revolutionizing how contractors work across North America. We dive into the plumbing trade, t...

Jonathan returns for a hard-hitting discussion on the rising financial challenges crippling tradespeople and contractors in today’s construction industry. From clients and general contractors who refuse to pay, to suppliers taking advantage of small businesses, we examine the devastating impact on hardworking professionals who are the backbone of our economy. We also delve into the harsh realities...

In this episode of Safety Corner , we dive into the latest government proposals for increased fines in the construction industry and uncover the truth behind the touted housing starts. Phillip explores the growing issue of undocumented workers in the industry, revealing how they are being exploited through unsafe conditions, unfair wages, and lack of protections. With a focus on creating safer, fa...

Evan Saskin, founder of Blue Lion Building, joins us to discuss his architect-led design-build firm specializing in urban infill housing in Toronto. Since 2011, Blue Lion has been redefining how we use space, blending innovative designs with modern materials like new brick, ACM, and cladding. From laneway homes and ADUs to rooftop decks that offer a retreat from the bustling city, Evan shares how...

Steve Melo from @steviejust4laughs_ brings his unique blend of Portuguese humor and heartfelt insight to this episode, sharing his 25+ years of experience in construction. From being told by his father to "get out of the house and get a job," to discovering his passion for the trades, Steve's journey is one of resilience and determination. He opens up about growing up without a mother, recently lo...

Fred Garceau returns to The Construction Life Podcast to share his continued journey in mastering carpentry through the art of stereotomy. In this episode, Fred dives deep into his recent projects, including the successful completion of a praying monastery built for monks using intricate timber framing techniques. He also recounts the challenges and triumphs of restoring an old barn that defied gr...

In this eye-opening episode of Safety Corner , we delve into the complex challenges faced by undocumented workers in the construction industry and the ripple effects on safety, wages, and legitimate workers. We explore the size and impact of the immigrant workforce and shine a light on the exploitation they face from hiring consultants, false promises, and temp agencies. The conversation also tack...

Shawn Ramsden from Brollys Dad returns to the show for an in-depth conversation on the art of drywall and mudding, taking us through the nitty-gritty of life on the construction site and the challenges faced by today’s tradespeople. We also explore the evolving role of social media marketing in the construction industry—how it’s influencing the trades, reshaping perceptions, and creating new oppor...

In this episode, Michelle Dada, P.Eng., of MNT Consulting Group Inc., pulls back the curtain on the chaos of Ontario’s green building standards. From conflicting municipal rules that defy the Ontario Building Code Act to inflated costs and delays, Michelle argues that these so-called “sustainable” initiatives are failing to deliver real results. We break down programs like ThinKING Green and Auror...

In this essential episode of Safety Corner , we break down the key duties and responsibilities of every major player on a construction site—workers, supervisors, employers, and constructors. From ensuring workplace safety to adhering to legal requirements, we discuss the roles each group plays in creating a safe and efficient work environment. Join us as we dive into the specifics of compliance, a...

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Ryan Borkowski to tackle the pressing issues surrounding Canadian construction funding and its impact on the industry. From start-and-stop projects to housing shortages, we dive deep into the real challenges facing construction and development in Canada. We explore how funding is allocated, uncover the inefficiencies and bureaucratic hurdles that cause...

In this powerful episode of, we are joined by Ivan Fredette, the founder of Ironclad Brotherhood, a movement dedicated to building strong men—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Ivan shares his personal journey through tragedy, resilience, and transformation. From losing his best friend to suicide in his late teens to recently facing the heartbreaking loss of his sister, Ivan opens up about how...

In today’s episode of Safety Corner, we tackle a crucial issue affecting the construction industry—unemployment and its ripple effects on job site safety. With economic shifts and seasonal changes leading to fluctuations in construction employment, we explore how unemployment can increase safety risks. From understaffed sites and overworked crews to skill shortages and the pressures of rehiring, w...

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Mathew Guluzian of Rise Again Framing Ltd. to hear about his journey into the world of framing and the people who shaped his career. Mathew opens up about the highs and lows of his path in the trades, including a tragic incident that changed his perspective forever. He recalls the day he stood just six feet away from his colleague and a mentor, Mike Groul...

Join us for a compelling episode of Safety Corner powered by S1 and The Construction Life, featuring industry veteran Frank Tancredi, who brings nearly four decades of experience to the table. Frank’s career began in his early 20s with a decade of hands-on work in heavy demolition, setting the stage for a lifelong commitment to the construction industry. He then transitioned to an impactful 21-yea...

We bring together four experienced tile installers and suppliers for an in-depth discussion on everything tile-related. From seasoned pros to the next generation, our guests share their unique perspectives on the tile industry, covering everything from the challenges of working with clients to the latest innovations in products and techniques. Featuring insights on Laticrete products, we explore t...

Massimo Ferrara from Cava Surfaces explores the world of premium stone solutions that are reshaping both the construction and design industries. Based in Toronto’s vibrant design district, Cava Surfaces is known for its extensive showroom on Tycos Drive, showcasing over 350 globally-sourced, hand-selected stone varieties, including marble, quartzite, granite, onyx, and more. Massimo shares insight...

Hamaza Momade, Director of Special Projects, and Mike Jesus, Senior Site Supervisor, are in the studio to discuss RONI Group’s impactful legacy and ongoing projects across Ontario. With over 40 years of experience, RONI Group has set the standard for industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential construction services, including demolition, shoring, excavation, civil work, waterproofing, f...

We sit down with Rezan Mert, the General Coordinator of Engineering Building Corp (EBS Global). Rezan brings his young experience into the construction industry to discuss the innovative approaches EBS Global takes in tackling complex construction and engineering challenges. We explore the company's core services, project highlights, and the vital role they play in advancing the construction indus...

In this episode of Safety Corner powered by S1 and TCL, we dive into the critical topic of workplace safety responsibilities, breaking down the "Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How" of safety on construction sites. From owners and constructors to workers, suppliers, and other key stakeholders, we’ll identify each party’s role, proper titles, and the specific responsibilities they carry on a job s...