Trades Unfiltered

In this episode of Trades Unfiltered, Ethan Tripodi speaks with Sean Reeves, Trades Manager at Apple Air, about his remarkable journey in the trades, the growth of the plumbing department at Apple Air, and the importance of company culture. Sean shares insights from his 27 years of experience, including his transition from working with his father in plumbing to leading a successful team at Apple A...

In this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Jason Melendez Jr., a successful HVAC sales technician who shares his journey from being a technician to becoming a top salesman. Jason discusses his early fascination with entrepreneurship, the importance of customer service, and the mindset shift he experienced as he navigated his career. He emphasizes the significance of genuinely caring for customers a...

Alyssa reflects on her transition from a corporate career in marketing to the trades, emphasizing the learning curve she faced in leadership and team management. She discusses the significance of grassroots marketing and building relationships within the community, which have been crucial for their growth. As they aim for ambitious goals, Alyssa highlights the need for strategic hiring and the imp...

In this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Zach Bundt, a former roofer turned digital marketer. Zach shares his journey from working in the trades to running his own marketing firm, emphasizing the importance of digital marketing in the roofing industry. He discusses the challenges he faced, including being scammed by marketers and the lessons learned along the way. Zach also reflects on his person...

In this engaging conversation, Ethan Tripodi interviews Everett Lippel, a podcast host and sales coach, who shares his insights on the HVAC industry, the importance of human connection in sales, and the evolution of professionalism in trades. Everett emphasizes the need for personal development, authenticity, and building a positive company culture. He shares impactful stories from his podcast tha...

In this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Sam Wakefield, a seasoned sales expert in the trades and home service industry. They discuss the importance of personal growth, the transition from technician to sales, and the philosophy of permission-based selling. Sam shares insights on understanding customer psychology, the impact of world events on sales, and the significance of listening and empathy...

Unlock the secret to building lasting generational wealth through faith, strategic business practices, and authentic relationships. Thomas Covington reveals how aligning your purpose with your work can transform your financial future and impact countless lives—including your own family’s—long after you're gone. In this powerful conversation, Thomas shares his journey from humble beginnings to mana...

In this conversation, Huck Horne shares his journey in the HVAC industry, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, understanding client needs, and maintaining core values. He discusses his transition from retail to HVAC, the significance of indoor air quality, and the impact of personal experiences on his career. Huck highlights the importance of educating clients, managing time effec...

Tommy Satkowski shares his journey of building and exiting an HVAC business. He discusses the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, the importance of mindset shifts, and the hard realities of running a business. Tommy emphasizes the significance of hiring the right team, understanding profitability versus revenue, and the critical role of customer service. As he embarks on a new venture, he...

Brandon Carey and Isaac Vazquez, the owners of Leaps and Bounds HVAC in South Central Pennsylvania. They discuss the journey of starting their business, which began in the summer of 2022, and officially launched in February 2024. The conversation covers the challenges of entrepreneurship, including the unexpected difficulties and sacrifices involved, such as managing relationships and making tough...