Blue-Collar BS

Ever wondered how GPS tracking could actually save your business from chaos? Today, we’re chatting with Michael Drelicharz about the unexpected ways his fleet tracking solutions are helping small businesses thrive. Tracking technology is changing the game for small businesses, and today we’re digging into how it works. Michael Drelicharz, owner of Precise Fleet Tracking Solutions and host of I Got...

Ever had to clean up someone else’s mess at work and wondered why it even happened? Let’s dive into a real-life mess between two manufacturing plants and what leaders can learn from it. In this episode, we tackle a story that’s all too common in the manufacturing world—two plants, one shipping defective parts, and a whole lot of chaos in between. We share insights into the root of the problem, dis...

Ever feel like your business is running you instead of the other way around? Aaron Mills knows why that happens and how contractors can take back control of their time, money, and sanity. Aaron knows construction, not just the nuts and bolts of it, but the numbers behind it. As the founder of DAAXIT, he’s spent years helping contractors go from paycheck-to-paycheck operations to thriving businesse...

What’s it like being one of only 6,000 women in the U.S. with a master plumber’s license? Jessie Cannizzaro didn’t grow up dreaming of plumbing, but her story is proof that life’s twists and turns can lead to incredible success. Jessie didn’t set out to follow in her family’s footsteps in the plumbing industry—or even to earn a business degree. Like many young adults, she started college without a...

If you’ve heard complaints about “lazy” Gen Z workers, you’re not alone. But are these stereotypes based on reality, or are they just old-school misconceptions? We sat down with Brett King, CEO of Exploring Potential, to unpack these myths and dig into what Gen Z is actually bringing to the table. Spoiler: It’s not laziness—it’s a need for meaning and connection. Brett shares how companies can sto...

What does it take to create a work culture where people actually want to stay? Today, we're diving into what makes or breaks a “stay culture” in the workplace. Fall is well under way , and while hunting season might give some employees a reason to step away, it brings up an important question: how do you create a culture that keeps people engaged and committed? This episode digs into the idea of "...

When Thomas Wasmoen started Firm Ground Architects, it wasn’t just about designing buildings—it was about creating a strong foundation for collaboration and innovation. Thomas shares the incredible origin story of his firm, which began with a bold declaration at a bar and grew into a thriving, multi-generational company. With decades of experience, he talks about creating a culture that bridges ge...

There’s something truly special about how the blue-collar world steps up during times of crisis, and today, we're taking a moment to recognize that. Over the past few months, we’ve seen incredible stories of resilience and community in the face of natural disasters across the Carolinas, Florida, Texas, and beyond. It’s a reminder that while not everyone in the industry may be doing things for the...

Joining the family business isn’t always a given, but Kyle Davies shares how he found his path and the lessons that shaped him along the way. Kyle Davies, General Manager of W.E. Davies and Sons Remodeling, talks about his unique journey into the family business, a company that's been a cornerstone of Madison, Wisconsin, for nearly 50 years. Kyle didn't jump into the business right away; he explor...

We’re thrilled to share that we’ve been awarded the 2024 Small Business Owners Community Podcast of the Year! This recognition is a huge milestone, and we’re beyond grateful for your support along the way. Thank you to everyone who tunes in and engages with us—you’ve truly made this journey worthwhile. Thanks to you, what began as an idea back in 2019 has grown into a podcast reaching listeners in...

A positive employee experience is crucial for business success, and it all begins with leadership. Meg Schmitz joins us to share insights on how business owners can drive a thriving work culture by staying in tune with their employees’ needs. Drawing from her expertise in franchising, Meg explains why the focus should be on employee retention and engagement, and how it leads to better customer sat...

In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the most overused and ineffective approaches to employee recognition—pizza parties. While they’ve become a common way to acknowledge hard work, they often miss the mark and fail to make a lasting impact. Employee recognition should go beyond superficial gestures and focus on creating meaningful connections with the team. There’s a big difference between re...

Welding education is experiencing a resurgence, with students more eager than ever to learn the trade. Matt Scott, a welding instructor from Portland Community College, shares his 30+ years of experience in training the next generation of welders and explains how the pandemic has reshaped both student engagement and the industry itself. In this episode, Matt talks about the post-pandemic shift in...

Hey there, and thanks for tuning in to another episode of the Blue Collar BS Podcast! We’re hitting that end-of-the-year grind, talking about the challenges of reaching goals when the holidays and vacation days are taking up your calendar. Today, we’re diving into strategies to help you stay focused and finish the year strong. As the holiday season rolls in, it’s easy for focus to slip and for tea...

First off, we want to say a massive thank you to each and every one of you. Whether you're tuning in for the laughs, the stories, or the no-nonsense advice, your commitment to the show means the world to us. You've been the backbone of our success, and we couldn’t have made it this far without your support, engagement, and feedback. We value the time you spend with us every week, and we truly resp...

Hey everyone, Brad and Steve here for another episode of Blue Collar BS! Today, we’re diving into the world of selling—focusing on how to position your business in a crowded market and stay top of mind for your clients. We tackle the big topic of positioning your business for success. Whether you're a plumber, electrician, or in manufacturing, we’re seeing a lot of businesses struggle with adaptin...

In today's episode, Steve and I had an amazing conversation with Nick Packard, a passionate entrepreneur and marketing genius who's shaking up the blue-collar industry with his out-of-the-box ideas. We kicked things off by diving into Nick's journey from becoming internet-famous with his "Pass Me a Beer" videos to launching unconventional marketing campaigns like picklefarts.com and Hats for the H...

Welcome Back, Everyone! In today’s episode, Steve and I dive into how you can transform negativity in your workplace into opportunities for growth and innovation. We’re here to share some game-changing strategies that can help any blue-collar business owner turn challenges into catalysts for positive change. Here’s What We Cover: Embracing Technology: We discuss how Bob Dietz and Sons are setting...

Are you prepared for the financial unknowns of your business’s future? Discover the key elements to ensure a smooth transition. In this episode of Blue Collar BS, we welcome Greg DeSimone, an unconventional CPA who emphasizes the value of family-owned businesses being transferable.  With a focus on transition planning, Greg shares his perspective on growing a business, building a reliable tea...

How can today's business leaders effectively manage a multi-generational workforce to boost engagement, break stereotypes, and foster success? In this episode we dive into the challenges and opportunities of leading a multi-generational workforce. We discuss the common stereotypes that hamper workplace harmony and provide actionable strategies to create an inclusive, high-performing business envir...

Is it possible for experienced boomers to re-enter the workforce successfully after owning a business? Discover how Mark Weber did just that! In this episode we welcome back Mark Weber, a seasoned boomer who transitioned from leadership roles to becoming an individual contributor. Mark shares his unique journey, offering valuable insights into generational dynamics in the workforce, the importance...

How can active listening and empathy bridge generational gaps and transform team dynamics in the workplace? In this episode delve into the intricate dynamics of multigenerational teams in today's workforce. We discuss the pitfalls and triumphs of integrating diverse generational perspectives and how empathy and active listening can change the game.  We share real-life examples from their prof...

What crucial advice do legal experts have for business owners navigating the complexities of new financial regulations and generational transitions? In this episode of we are joined by guest Elisa Ruer, a Gen X attorney, to discuss the importance of legal counsel in business operations, especially in light of new financial reporting laws and the challenges of generational ownership transitions. El...

How can businesses boost employee engagement and combat the staggering $8.9 trillion lost annually to disengaged workers? In this episode, we dissect a Fox Business article on how companies are beefing up "emotional salary" to address today's disengaged workforce. We discuss the difference between unengaged and actively disengaged employees, and brainstorm solutions. We emphasize the importance of...

How can a business effectively navigate a major move while maintaining its workforce and culture? Stacia Hobson shares her experiences and insights on this topic. In this episode, Stacia Hobson discusses the challenges and triumphs of moving her business from Illinois to Mississippi. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication, celebrating milestones, and adapting to the new community's c...