The Trades Podcast

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 learned, and insights from her own journey in construction and business.   From overcoming challenges to building stronger communities within the trades, this live episode captures authentic conversation and the passion driving the next generation of industry leaders.   More than a celebration of 200 episodes, this event represents the continued mission of The Trades Podcast, elevating voices within construction and creating meaningful conversations that inspire growth, leadership, and opportunity throughout the skilled trades.   Whether you’re a contractor, builder, entrepreneur, trades professional, or someone considering a future in construction, this episode offers valuable perspective, motivation, and encouragement to keep building forward.   🎧 Listen, share, and help us continue amplifying the voices shaping the future of the trades. Featured Panel Guests April Edwards – Deck Builder Marketers Cheryl Robertson – Superior Floor & Cabinet Designs Sara Graves – Deck Specialist Magazine Nina Ridgley – HBI San Marcos Topics Discussed Women leading in construction The future of skilled trades Workforce development Mentorship and leadership Industry challenges and opportunities Entrepreneurship in the trades Building stronger trade communities Representation within construction Live audience discussion and networking Contributors Hosted By Jeff Danny Special Panel Guests April Edwards - April Edwards is a digital marketing professional specializing in lead generation and brand strategy for home improvement and outdoor living industries. She is best known as the founder of Deck Builder Marketers, a marketing agency dedicated to helping deck builders and contractors grow through data-driven online marketing. Cheryl Robertson Cheryl Robertson is a home-improvement professional affiliated with Superior Floor & Cabinet Designs, a business specializing in custom cabinetry, flooring, and interior design solutions. She is recognized for her hands-on expertise in residential renovation projects and her role in guiding clients through personalized design and installation processes. Sara Graves Sara Graves is a building-materials professional recognized for her editorial and technical contributions to Deck Specialist Magazine, a U.S. trade publication serving outdoor-living and deck-construction industries. Known as a deck-building specialist and industry communicator, she highlights emerging trends, product innovations, and professional best practices for contractors and manufacturers. Nina Ridgley Nina Ridgley is an American communications and workforce-development professional based in the San Diego metropolitan area. She is associated with the Home Builders Institute (HBI) in San Marcos, California, where she contributes to industry and community engagement initiatives supporting construction education and careers. Produced By The Trades Podcast Live Event Venue Estrella Venue About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

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 quality. The discussion also explores leadership, employee development, and the importance of staying adaptable in a changing marketplace. The hosts and Jason discuss: Building a trusted service brand in a competitive industry Why technician education and training matter The role of culture in retaining strong employees Adapting pest management businesses to new technology How local ownership strengthens customer relationships Creating long-term growth through consistency and accountability Resources and Mentions A-Tex Pest Managementhttps://www.atexpest.com/ The Trades Podcasthttps://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn How strong customer service builds long-term trust Why employee training drives business success The importance of culture in service industries How leadership impacts growth and reputation Ways technology is shaping pest management operations About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

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 technicians. The conversation also highlights newer opportunities connected to renewable energy systems, electrification, and AI-driven infrastructure development. The hosts break down median wage insights, job security trends, and long-term employment projections, showing why trades careers continue to outperform expectations in stability and earning potential. They also emphasize the importance of awareness, mentorship, and training programs to help close the gap between open positions and available skilled workers.  guest links   Twitter - https://twitter.com/JeffMudd LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/jeffmudd Website - https://thetradespodcast.com/    key  topics Demand and growth in skilled trades Median wages and job openings Emerging fields: solar, AI infrastructure Career pathways in welding, carpentry, HVAC Impact of technology and geopolitics on trades   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Trades Podcast and Overview of Part Two 01:19 Exploring the Demand for Skilled Trades 05:46 Welding: Opportunities and Industry Insights 09:54 Carpentry: Career Paths and Earnings Potential 13:47 Construction Labor: Entry Points and Growth 17:53 Heavy Equipment Operations: Skills and Opportunities 23:21 Career Longevity in Heavy Equipment Operations 23:58 Transitioning from Laborer to Heavy Equipment Operator 25:40 Understanding Industrial Machinery Mechanics 27:25 Opportunities for Retiring Workers in Mechanics 29:18 The Role of HVAC in Modern Infrastructure 31:25 Elevator and Escalator Mechanics: A Niche Field 34:27 The Financial Benefits of Elevator Installation Careers 37:24 The Growing Field of Solar Energy 40:19 Regional Demand for Solar Installers 41:56 Future Opportunities in Solar and Space 43:13 Recap of Key Trades and Their Growth 44:53 The Value of Trades vs. Traditional College Paths 47:07 Building a Positive Work Culture in Trades 49:02 The Demand for Skilled Workers in the Trades  resources Bureau of Labor Statistics 2026 Report - https://www.bls.gov/ BlackRock Skill Trades Investment - https://www.blackrock.com/ Simpson Strong Tie Texas Facility Tour - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=example SpaceX Artemis Missions - https://www.spacex.com/ Solar Energy Industry Insights - https://www.energy.gov/renewables/solar National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) - https://www.nahb.org/ About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Scott Levene, Vice President of LevCo, to discuss how a multi-generation family business stays competitive in a rapidly changing home-services and energy landscape. Scott shares the history of the company, which began in 1980 and has grown from fuel delivery into a full-service provider of HVAC, heating oil, propane, and home comfort solutions. The discussion focuses on preserving company culture, leading through generational transitions, and using technology to create better customer experiences. The incredible journey of LevCo, from its early beginnings as a coal and fuel company to becoming a modern provider of HVAC, heating oil, propane, indoor comfort, and energy services across Connecticut. With deep family values at the center, Scott explains how three generations of leadership have shaped a culture built on accountability, customer trust, and long-term relationships. The conversation also dives into the future of the trades, where AI, automation, and smarter service systems are changing how companies operate. Scott offers insight into how LevCo is embracing technology without losing the personal connection that makes family businesses special.   Key themes include: The power of family-owned leadership in the trades Building a culture that spans three generations Adapting HVAC and fuel delivery operations to market shifts How AI and automation improve dispatching, communication, and service Why customer trust remains the most valuable business asset Preparing the next generation of leaders inside a legacy business Resources and Mentions LevCohttps://levco.io What You Will Learn How family-owned trades businesses scale without losing culture Why generational leadership can be a competitive advantage How AI is reshaping service and dispatch operations The role of trust in HVAC and fuel delivery customer relationships How to future-proof a legacy business Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lefco and Scott's Background 02:59 Navigating Challenges During COVID-19 06:33 Company Culture and Employee Retention Strategies 09:36 Recruitment and Training Practices at Lefco 12:22 The Importance of Customer Service in Business 15:04 Family Legacy and Multi-Generational Business 17:54 Scott's Transition from Soccer to Business Leadership 26:04 The Influence of Sports on Work Ethic 29:57 Business Development and Continuous Improvement 33:28 Leveraging AI in the HVAC Industry 36:54 Advice for Aspiring HVAC Professionals 40:43 The Importance of Self-Motivation in Trades 44:31 Future Growth and Diversification Strategies About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

In today's competitive job market, retaining skilled employees is more crucial than ever, especially in the trades. In a recent podcast episode, Danny and Jeff delve into effective strategies for keeping employees engaged and happy, ensuring they stay loyal to your business. Here, we break down their insights and recommendations into actionable steps that can help you build a thriving work environment. Understanding the Importance of Employee Retention  Employee retention is not just a buzzword; it's a vital component of a successful business. Danny and Jeff highlight the volatile nature of the trades, where skilled workers often have various job options. Therefore, retaining good employees means not only keeping them on payroll but also ensuring they feel valued and engaged at work. As Jeff emphasizes, "If you've got a good person, you want to keep them employed." Creating a Strong Company Culture  A strong company culture is the backbone of employee retention. Jeff shares his experience with his previous company, where he fostered a culture that allowed different departments to develop their own microcultures. For instance, while the trades team might have a hands-on, results-oriented culture, the office staff might focus more on collaboration and celebration. This diversity in culture can boost morale and improve job satisfaction. As a business owner, it’s essential to establish an overarching company culture while allowing these microcultures to flourish. Defining Roles and Responsibilities  Clarity in job roles is essential for employee satisfaction. Jeff points out the necessity of detailing each department's purpose and individual responsibilities. "It shouldn't just be 'here's the binder, go ask Debbie.' It should be a structured process that ensures everyone knows their role and how they contribute to the company’s success." By providing clear job descriptions and expectations, you empower your employees to take ownership of their work. Implementing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)  KPIs are vital tools for measuring employee performance and fostering a culture of growth. Jeff discusses how these indicators help employees understand what is expected of them and how they can achieve it. For example, a new office employee might be evaluated on their customer interaction skills, while a field employee is assessed based on punctuality and tool readiness. By setting clear performance metrics, you encourage employees to improve and grow within their roles. Career Development Opportunities  Providing a clear career path is essential for retaining employees. Jeff suggests creating a "career ladder" that outlines the steps employees can take to advance within the company. This not only motivates employees to work towards promotions but also gives them a sense of purpose. As Danny notes, this roadmap should be a living document that adapts to changes in the industry and technology. Regular Check-Ins and Feedback  Regular communication is key to fostering a positive work environment. Jeff emphasizes the importance of annual reviews and informal check-ins to discuss employees’ growth and aspirations. "Sometimes just a quiet conversation without interruptions goes a long way to build trust within your own company," he says. These discussions should not only focus on performance but also on employees’ personal goals and how they align with the company’s vision. Conclusion: Retaining skilled employees in the trades requires a multifaceted approach. By creating a strong company culture, clearly defining roles, implementing KPIs, offering career development opportunities, and maintaining open communication, you can build a loyal and engaged workforce. Remember, your employees are your greatest asset, and investing in their growth and satisfaction will pay dividends for your business in the long run. Key TakeawaysEmployee retention is crucial in today's job market.A strong company culture can significantly impact retention.Defining clear roles and responsibilities helps employees understand their purpose.KPIs are essential for measuring employee performance and growth.Creating a career ladder can motivate employees to strive for advancement.Being an employer of choice requires a strong brand and clear values.Social media presence can enhance a company's reputation and attract talent.Effective communication is key to successful leadership.Handling conflicts promptly can maintain a positive work environment.Performance-based compensation can incentivize employees to meet goals. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Employee Retention03:22 The Importance of Company Culture06:27 Defining Roles and Responsibilities09:30 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Explained12:30 Creating a Career Ladder15:26 Employer of Choice: Building a Strong Brand18:07 The Role of Social Media in Business Culture21:17 Communication and Leadership in Business24:13 Handling Employee Conflicts27:19 Performance-Based Compensation Strategies30:23 Feedback Mechanisms for Improvement33:08 Conclusion and Future Outlook About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

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 development policy priorities Why contractors need a seat at the table in Washington, D.C. The role local chapters like PHCC San Diego play in state-level advocacy How legislation impacts business costs, service offerings, and customer options  Mark shares how PHCC’s annual Legislative Conference and ongoing government affairs efforts help contractors influence policies that affect their livelihoods, while Taylor brings a local chapter perspective on how these issues affect California contractors in real time. From recent water heater regulation updates and Department of Energy standards to workforce policy, apprenticeship funding, and contractor protections, Mark and Taylor explain why advocacy is no longer optional for trade business owners, it is essential. They highlight how PHCC gives contractors a direct voice in Washington and at the state level, ensuring the real-world challenges of licensed professionals are represented where decisions are made. This episode is a must-share for every plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical contractor who wants to stay ahead of regulation changes, protect customer choice, and strengthen the future of the trades through smart advocacy and industry leadership. Learn more about PHCC Policy & Advocacy 👉 https://www.phccweb.org/policy/ Resources and Mentions PHCC National Policy & Advocacyhttps://www.phccweb.org/policy/ PHCC San Diegohttps://www.phccsd.org/ PHCC Legislative Conferencehttps://www.phccweb.org/events/ The Trades Podcasthttps://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn Why contractor advocacy directly affects profitability and service options The latest updates on water heater and energy regulations How apprenticeship policy supports long-term workforce growth Ways local contractors can get involved in PHCC advocacy Why policy awareness is a competitive advantage for trade business owners About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

What if the biggest opportunity in today’s economy isn’t being talked about enough? In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres break down the latest insights from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and reveal a powerful truth, the skilled trades are not just in demand, they are essential to the future of the workforce. With hundreds of thousands of open positions across industries like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, Jeff and Danny unpack what’s driving the gap, from retiring professionals to a lack of awareness among younger generations. But this episode is not about problems, it’s about opportunity. They highlight how trades careers offer strong wages, job security, and real pathways to ownership, often outpacing the national median income. More importantly, they discuss why now is the time for experienced professionals to step up, mentor, and pass down knowledge to the next generation. If you’ve ever wondered where the next wave of success is coming from, this episode will open your eyes. Share it with a student, a parent, or a business owner who needs to see the future more clearly. Learn more from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 👉 https://www.bls.gov/   Takeaways The U.S. labor market is experiencing a significant number of job openings in the trades. Many job openings are due to retiring workers, creating a skills gap. Electricians have around 80,000 openings per year, with median pay around $61,590. Plumbers and pipe fitters have approximately 42,600 openings per year, with similar pay. HVAC technicians are projected to have 42,500 openings per year, with median pay of $57,300. Skilled trades wages are generally higher than the national median wage. Knowledge transfer from experienced workers to younger generations is crucial. The construction industry needs to market itself better to attract younger workers. The aging infrastructure will require more skilled tradespeople for repairs and replacements. There is a growing demand for home automation and energy-efficient systems, increasing job opportunities.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Labor Market Statistics 05:13 Understanding Job Openings in the Trades 10:53 The Importance of Knowledge Transfer in Trades 14:16 Skilled Trades Wages vs. National Median 19:44 Electricians: Opportunities and Challenges 28:21 Plumbers and Pipe Fitters: Demand and Growth 34:48 HVAC Technicians: Trends and Future Outlook About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

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 for contractors across North America. The conversation focuses on leadership development, employee engagement, and the systems that allow trades companies to scale without losing culture or quality. Chris explains why investing in training, transparency, and team development is critical to reducing turnover and building a resilient company. Resources and Mentions Business Development Resourceshttps://www.bdrco.com BDR Coaching and Training Programshttps://www.bdrco.com/trainers The Trades Podcasthttps://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn Why leadership development is critical in trades companies How to improve employee engagement and retention The systems successful contractors use to scale their business Why investing in your team leads to long-term growth How coaching and mentorship accelerate business performance   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Trades Podcast 00:56 Chris Koch's Background and Role at BDR 04:40 The Value of Trades Education 07:42 Marketing the Trades to Future Employees 09:10 The Importance of Soft Skills in Business 11:39 Hiring Trends and Speed to Hire 13:59 Employee Retention and Engagement 19:06 The Art of Delegation 27:14 Time Management and Focus 36:11 Long-Term Business Planning and Growth About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts discuss the importance of trades and skills in today's economy with guest Zachary Greg Hansen, author of 'The Trade Gap.' Zach shares his personal journey from a traditional education path to discovering the value of trades, the flaws in the education system, and the need for a shift in perspective towards vocational training. The conversation covers the challenges faced by individuals in the trades, the importance of adaptability in the workforce, and recommendations for bridging the trades gap. Zach emphasizes the need for parents and educators to support young people in exploring trades as viable career options. Zachary shares his personal journey from the world of corporate technology and artificial intelligence to rediscovering the life-changing value of hands-on skills. After experiencing the uncertainty of white-collar employment, he realized that practical trades skills provide something modern careers often cannot, resilience, independence, and real-world problem solving. Together, Jeff, Danny, and Zach dive into the growing “trade gap” in America, why fewer people are entering skilled trades, and how rediscovering craftsmanship could be the key to building stronger communities and more secure careers. Zach also explains why learning a trade is not just a backup plan, it may be one of the most valuable investments anyone can make in their future. If you believe the next generation should know how to build more than just digital careers, this episode will inspire you to rethink opportunity, education, and the true value of working with your hands. Share this conversation with someone who believes the future is built by people who know how to create. Learn more about the book 👉 https://www.amazon.com/stores/Zachary-Craig-Hanson/author/B0BGC6YQ3L Takeaways Zach Hansen emphasizes the importance of trades skills in today's economy. The education system often overlooks practical skills in favor of academic achievements. Zach's personal journey highlights the value of self-reliance and learning trades. The SATs measure cognitive ability but do not reflect practical skills. There is a growing need for trades education and vocational training. Parents play a crucial role in guiding their children towards trades careers. The trades industry faces challenges such as healthcare access and capital for small businesses. Zach advocates for a broader definition of trades, including various skills and crafts. The importance of having a backup plan and being adaptable in one's career. Zach's book aims to inspire a shift in perspective towards trades and vocational education.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Exciting News 01:04 Meet Zachary Greg Hansen 02:14 Zach's Life in Idaho 04:30 The Importance of Trades Skills 05:54 The Flaws in the Education System 11:45 Zach's Journey and Career Path 17:13 Facing Challenges and Rock Bottom Moments 19:13 The Shift in Perspective on Education 22:10 The Future of Trades and Skills 28:58 Employer Adaptation to the Trades Gap 34:55 Changing Perceptions of Trades 39:52 Recommendations to Bridge the Trades Gap 42:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

In this uplifting episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Shonna Jordan, founder and CEO of JordanJordan.com Marketing, for a conversation that goes beyond logos and ads and focuses on why your marketing matters. Shonna explains how understanding brand purpose, customer psychology, and tailored messaging can help trades businesses break through noise and build long-term success. You’ll hear Shonna discuss: The fundamentals of effective marketing for service businesses How to craft a brand that reflects your values and attracts the right clients Why storytelling is essential, even for technical trades Common marketing pitfalls and how to avoid them How small businesses can compete with bigger competitors using strategy over budget This episode gives listeners the tools to rethink their approach and take confident action. Resources and Mentions JordanJordan Marketinghttps://jordanjordan.com The Trades Podcasthttps://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn How to define your brand beyond just a logo Why marketing strategy should inform every part of your business How to connect with your audience through meaningful messaging The difference between marketing that sells and marketing that sticks Steps trades professionals can take today to improve their outreach About The Trades Podcast Websitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast is the voice of the trades community. Where industry leaders turn for Ideas, Inspiration, and Information they need to build lasting success. Let's Build Together If this episode gave you something of value, inpired you or helps you be a better business person, share it with another contractor or leader from the trades community. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.