Blue Collar StartUp

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Zay DuPree, the one-man mastermind behind DuPree Heating & Cooling!

When people think of a one-man operation, they typically picture an old dude with a beat up truck and a couple fans in the truck bed... But Zay couldn't be further from that vision. Fully insured and thoroughly professional, Zay proudly stands by the quality of his process and results. If you need HVAC work done, Zay is the best one-man band in town!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Show Starts

01:09 - An Introduction to Zay DuPree

02:17 - Getting Started… Thanks to YouTube?!

05:25 - Shoutout to the Blue Collar College!

06:15 - A Man of Many Hats

07:13 - The First Step… Was a Leap

10:10 - Get Comfortable with the Uncomfortable

12:49 - Let the Equipment Tell You

14:24 - Sales & Marketing: The Achilles’ Heel

16:40 - Feeling the Seal on the Deal

18:02 - The Value of Learning

19:07 - The Heartiest Crumbs: Big Business is a VERY Sloppy Eater!

22:16 - Answering the Call

24:06 - The Man with the Plan

27:18 - HVAC Becomes a Passion

29:33 - A Day in the Life of Zay DuPree: From Dawn ’til Dusk

31:27 - Learning to Let People Down

32:40 - A Scheduling Dream

35:29 - Bet on the Long Game

39:34 - Reach Out: A Learning Opportunity

41:12 - He’s Got Folders!

41:40 - Be the Means to Their End

43:49 - I’m Going Digital… But Not Completely Digital

45:51 - If You’re Thinking About It… Do It!

49:33 - How to Get in Touch

50:00 - Shoutout to Michaels Group, MLB Construction, HVCC, and BOCES!

51:09 - Take Your Social Media Seriously!

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Rachel McDermott, the second-generation proprietor of Dancing Grain Farm Brewery!

Dancing Grain runs a special operation - fully family-owned, they source every ingredient that goes into their brews at their own farm, without using any pesticides... This is as Blue Collar as it gets! Listen to this episode to hear their incredible story - recorded on site!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - “On the Farm” with Mike Nelson: Bokashi Greens

01:38 - Mushrooms Will Save the World!

03:42 - The Show Begins: An Introduction to Dancing Grain’s Own Rachel

05:15 - Let’s Go to the Hop

06:16 - Wild vs. Domesticated Hops

09:29 - Anatomy of a Brew

11:49 - Dog Attack!

12:26 - Sheep Yield

13:25 - Sourcing Every Single Ingredient!

15:05 - A Pesticide-Free Operation

21:15 - The First Generation’s Story

25:14 - Finding Her Way Back Home

27:53 - Building a Brewery: It Takes Serious Skill!

30:45 - Knitting Together the Supply Chain

34:12 - The Name “Dancing Grain”

35:05 - April 8th: Total Dankness Makes its Debut

37:18 - Bar-ley Hopping

39:07 - There is No Day-to-Day

40:26 - Tiny Farms… Prop Up a Big Society

41:56 - Something Very Special

43:51 - Doing Better Than the Farmers’ Markets

44:39 - Do Something You LOVE

48:24 - How to Get in Touch: dancinggrain.com

49:00 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Paul Lachar, owner and mason at Top Course Masonry!

The whole family's in on this foundational construction dream... But there's no dysfunction here. Paul and his crew have served the region with pride for over 20 years, and there's no end in sight! Listen to this episode to hear about his experience, how he keeps the family in harmony, how he got back to school after an injury, and more!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Mike’s Feeling Well Again!

01:47 - An Introduction to Paul, and Top Course Masonry

02:55 - A History You Can Count On

05:01 - Finding the Best Solution for You

06:37 - Resolving an Issue… Truly

07:37 - A Family Business

10:13 - Welcome Back

11:12 - A Little Bit of Everything

12:22 - 100% On-the-Job

13:39 - Make Your Choice

15:19 - No TV Drama Here!

16:51 - Mike’s No Mason… But He Does His Best!

19:50 - Paul’s Biggest Challenge: Finding a Balance

22:35 - Picking and Choosing

25:14 - Maintaining the Work-Life Balance

27:49 - What’s Next: The Offsite Location

28:51 - It’s Your Choice

30:12 - The One-Hour Radius

30:54 - A Jiu Jitsu Brotherhood

33:11 - Small World!

34:25 - An Injury Provides an Opportunity: Back to School

36:09 - Knowledge is Power… But it’s All About How You Use It!

38:07 - Paul’s Advice: Don’t Ever Quit!

40:00 - Stick it Out: Hardships Just Make You Stronger!

41:38 - How to Get in Touch

43:17 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Michael Turcotte, proprietor of Turn Cycle Solutions!

Michael built and grew his New Hampshire-based business with the usual hard work and hiring team members to cover his own weaknesses... But he also made the unique decision to hire people with similar strengths to his own. Why would he replace his own strengths with a costly employee, and how did this decision help his business grow? Listen to this episode, and you just might find out!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:36 - The Scoop on Turn Cycle Solutions

02:22 - From Grandma’s Breezeway to 18 Trucks!

07:33 - The Hiring Process: Covering Your Weaknesses

10:30 - Letting Go of Your Strengths

12:59 - The Employee Pipeline: Weird & Wacky

16:59 - Balancing Family and Business

20:41 - Cleaning Up a Mess

21:42 - Dad: The Cut-Up

22:58 - Patience is the Word

24:34 - Keeping Positive

29:10 - A Typical Day

32:24 - Mike’s Key Advice: Go Do What You’re Good At

33:45 - Human vs. Machine

36:13 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Dean Leber, a top leadership consultant at The Leaders Group!

The corporate world is full of bloated questions - "What's the difference between a mission and vision statement?" and "How do I empower my employees to become good leaders?" These questions seem jejune on the surface, but Dean has real, authentic answers to them that can help you, your team, and your business. Listen to this episode to find out how!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Opening Statements

00:56 - 75-Hard… 113 Days

01:45 - An Introduction to Dean Leber

03:20 - Lebership

04:49 - The Definition (and Importance) of a Mission

07:38 - Unify, Inspire, Move

08:35 - The Less Corporate, the Better!

11:32 - How Long Should a Mission Statement Be?

13:10 - Revisiting the Mission: Whenever It’s Relevant

15:16 - Culture is: Values, and Action

17:08 - Reaching Your People: The Intrinsic Method

19:31 - The Five Towers Interview Process: Unicorn Wrangling

21:16 - Structure: Developing and Empowering Leaders

23:39 - Balancing Risks: Aim Small, Miss Small

27:19 - Good Leaders Ask Questions

28:45 - Addressing Failure: Meter Your Expectations

31:16 - Mike Demands Sheep Talk

32:48 - Read Philosophy: Dean Recommends Stoics

34:12 - How to Get in Touch: grow@theleaders.group

34:58 - Mike Biffed It

35:28 - Staying Young: Diet, Exercise, and Learning

36:57 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB and Michaels Group!

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Chris Manzela, co-owner of BradManz Landscaping! Chris has been working since he was only 14 years old, but he's progressed a long way since then - from $3.75 an hour bussing tables to owning his own business and a massive football fan cave, Chris' steps forward have not been small! What's his secret? Listen to this episode, and you just might find out!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introductions

01:32 - Whoa! New Sound Effects!

02:11 - An Introduction to BradManz Landscaping

04:26 - Getting Started… At 14?!

06:16 - Food Service Wages… Thankfully Have Changed!

07:04 - Picking (and Losing) a Partner

08:05 - Chris Can Do It: Getting a Degree

10:39 - Brickman!

11:35 - Managing Over Maintenance

14:21 - The Beginning of BradManz

15:08 - Matching a Spirit of Generosity

16:54 - Where’s the Work Ethic? Lazy Podcasters!

20:54 - Broadcasting from the Bills Sanctuary

21:16 - Building a Business: It Always Starts Small! Go Above and Beyond!

24:51 - Do You Know, and Do You Care?

26:39 - Shoutout to The Town Tinker!

27:48 - Valorous Volunteerism: Shoutout to Ronald McDonald House!

31:09 - Competition is a GOOD Thing! Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help!

36:59 - Take Care of Your Unicorns!

40:44 - A Day in the Life of Chris

43:47 - A Well-Oiled Gearshift

48:13 - Communication is Paramount!

49:31 - Pay Your Bills!

51:58 - Chris’ (Incorrect) Prediction for the Big Game

52:51 - How to Get in Touch: bradmanzlandscaping.com

54:11 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB and Michaels Group!

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Dimitri Skrinik, the Project Manager at MODS National!

Dimitri's had an exciting journey, between emigrating from Moldova, leveraging internships into running his own blue collar business... And then leaving it to manage construction projects using shipping containers! Why did he choose Project Management over business ownership? What have his experiences taught him? Hear the answers, his story, and more here, in this episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Where IS the Dirty South?

01:24 - An Introduction to Dimitri Skrinik

04:17 - Why Construction? Thanks, Dad

06:35 - Discipline: The Ups and Downs

09:04 - Purpose Through Religion

10:40 - The Wild West That is… Shipping Containers!

13:45 - That Start-Up Feeling

15:03 - Balancing Gigs: There’s Always a Solution!

16:39 - The Moldovan Advantage

18:20 - Get Out of Your Own Way!

20:14 - Controlled Chaos: The Drifting Method

22:22 - Dimitri’s Business: Taking (and Returning) the Reins

26:57 - Working with Family isn’t Easy!

27:59 - Owning a Business is Great… If You Can Handle It!

32:38 - Entrepreneurship Means Marketing & Salesmanship: No Matter the Business!

35:01 - There’s No Such Thing as an Accidental Cowboy: Horses are Scary, Man!

37:41 - Keep Getting Better: Dimitri’s FunHouse

40:05 - Dimitri’s Advice: There’s Never Been a Better Time to Enter the Trades!

41:15 - How to Get in Touch

42:03 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Brendan Manning, the Vice President of Education & Environment at AGC New York!

The AGC (Associated General Contractors) specializes in discovering and solving the problems caused by federal and state legislation that pertain to the trades, and informing and working with local tradespeople based on that information. Whether it's by focusing on the legal side, directly training local business owners, or partnering with local organizations, the AGC is a fantastic Blue Collar advocate! Listen to this episode to learn more about their important mission!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introductions: Happy Holidays!

02:36 - Associated General Contractors of New York State: What Is It?

04:41 - A Proactive, Reactive Organization: Weighing Potential Consequences of Policies

09:01 - Bills: Separating the Valuable from the Crazy

10:08 - A Better Way to Build: The Power of Computer Modeling

11:26 - Mike’s Chicken Mansion: A Perfect Example

13:25 - Nurturing the Budding Blue Collars: The Education Side of the AGC

17:20 - Which Training to Do in Person, and Which You Can Do Online

18:36 - Gaining Members During COVID: The Zoom Method

19:54 - Affordable Programming: Funds Scholarships!

21:45 - The Value of Schooling: Give Kids Options!

23:14 - Shoutout to BOCES!

23:51 - Don’t Go to College as a Statistic!

25:37 - What Goes Into Running a Business: Stephanie’s Story

29:18 - Cooperation to Improve Competition: P2P Networks

31:46 - Building Capacity for Natural Diversity

33:11 - Business Owner, Tradesman? Either Way, AGC can Help!

34:20 - Membership Options

36:22 - Suicide Awareness

37:33 - Joint Operations: Partnering with NESCA

40:33 - A Brief History of Brendan Manning: Banking, Software, Y2K, and More

42:19 - Brendan’s Key Piece of Advice: Find a Good, Specialized Attorney and Accountant!

44:07 - How to Get in Touch

44:49 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB and Michaels Group!

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Brent Flavin and David Johnson, co-founder & CEO, and Sales VP respectively of BoomNation!

Finding workers and finding work - that's the biggest challenge the trades are facing. BoomNation breaks through the drawbacks of job boards, combining effective professional services with a fun and personal user experience. If you breathe Blue and want to work Blue, BoomNation is your solution!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introductions: Welcome to BoomNation!

04:00 - Not a Recruiter, Not a Forum: A Community

08:37 - Facilitating the Connection: Cutting Through the Noise of a Typical Job Board

10:58 - 90 Days, 98-Million Users Reached!

12:11 - Professional and Fun: All in One

16:40 - Helping Not Just Employees, But Employers, Too!

18:24 - 92% Application Dropoff Rate?! How BoomNation Fixes It

22:11 - The Upsides of a Union… Without the Downsides

23:54 - Derek Arrives, Thumbs Appear

24:40 - Getting Into the Trades: Never Too Early, Never Too Late!

27:17 - Getting (And Staying) In the Trades

30:56 - See a Need, Fill a Need: The BoomNation Origin Story

36:34 - From Passive Project to Top App

38:10 - A Great Project Starts With a Great Team!

39:30 - You Want Quality? Pay For It…

43:45 - …But Pay Alone Isn’t Enough! Be Responsive!

46:40 - How to Get in Touch

47:28 - Shoutout to MLB Construction and Michaels Group!

48:15 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Terrence Musto and Robert Manasier - the creator of Fabbro Industries, and the business mentor that helped him do it! From a humble start building custom bikes to running his own professional fabrication shop, Terrence's business is a stunning example of the kind of value a business mentor like Robert can provide. Want to learn how to take that idea of yours to the next level? Listen to this episode to get a few clues!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:00:15 - Introductions

00:02:13 - “Fix it in Post”? NO!

00:03:21 - Fabbro Industries: From Motorbikes to Machines

00:07:05 - The Demise of Apprenticeships

00:08:05 - What is a Fabricator?

00:11:14 - Riding Your Own Bike: Living the Dream

00:13:26 - Earning Approval: A Multi-Step Process

00:18:42 - Meeting Manasier: Taking the Motor Out of Motorbike

00:20:54 - Good ol’ New York State: Michael and his Cycles

00:22:01 - Building the Business: Outmaneuvering the Metrics

00:25:53 - Private Enterprise Beats the State Every Time!

00:29:28 - Blabbing About Beards

00:31:02 - The Incubator: Build Out that Beachhead!

00:35:42 - A Clear Pathway to Success: The Output DOES Matter!

00:37:29 - The Play Entrepreneur… You Need More Than Just an Idea! Be Coachable!

00:41:19 - Both Parties Need Accountability! Mike’s School Story

00:42:35 - A Structured Cohort: Alpacas vs. Llamas

00:45:38 - Bob’s First Business… Started at Age 13?! “But Do You Have a Job?”

00:47:14 - The Biggest Challenge: Predicting the Future, Planning for Failures

00:50:26 - Entering Production: There’s Lots of Factors You Haven’t Considered!

00:54:12 - Finding Highly-Skilled Employees Isn’t Easy!

00:55:10 - When Close Enough, Isn’t

00:56:48 - Mike the Ne’er-Do-Weld

00:57:39 - How to Get in Touch: And One Last Story

00:59:53 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB Construction!

01:00:31 - A Sneak Peek for Next Episode!

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Doug Ford and Pam Stott, two employees of Curtis Lumber who specialize in workforce development! It's all anyone can talk about now: "Where are all the young workers?" "What will happen to the trades in ten years?" If Doug and Pam have anything to say about it, things will only get better - they're dedicated to educating people across the state about their options, and the wonderful truths about Blue Collar work - it's not "a backup job", it's skilled, profitable, fulfilling, and essential!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Show Begins

01:16 - Introductions

02:56 - Fix that Mic!

03:33 - All About Tupper and Saranac Lake

05:40 - Combatting Workforce Development Challenges

09:17 - The Blue Guarantee

11:23 - Overcoming the College Expectation

12:45 - Too Much Work? The “Real” Job Stigma

15:30 - COVID Helped Grow the Trades?!

16:52 - Stability, Benefits, Safety: The Trades Have Evolved!

18:08 - The Organization Grows

20:18 - Working with the Government

22:43 - Striking Against Stereotypes: Love for the Locals

26:27 - A Decades-Old Stereotype: When Will it Pass?

29:26 - The Education Pipeline

31:48 - Scary Statistics: Where is Everybody?

33:31 - Show Your Support! What You Can Do to Help

35:49 - Branching Out: Taking the Mission Further

37:42 - How to Get in Touch

38:26 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to Michaels Group!

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Jared Davis and Samuel Stork - teacher and graduate respectively from WSWHE BOCES! They've got programs in dozens of different subjects for kids and adults alike, but one particular strength of their offerings is the Blue Collar menu! Horticulture, heavy equipment operation, welding, automotive - whatever your shade of blue, BOCES has a program for you!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introductions: Love That Blue Collar Coffee!

02:06 - Greetings From WSWHE

03:30 - This Week at BOCES

05:12 - Well to Do About Welding

06:13 - Heavy Equipment Training!

08:34 - A Stork’s Journey: Working Day TWO After Graduation!

11:42 - A Little Bit of Everything

13:16 - Is College On the Table?

14:56 - Class During COVID

15:53 - What Makes Us Blue?

18:41 - A Blue Collar Teacher’s Job: Keep Those Kids’ Fingers and Toes Intact!

20:47 - The BOCES Advantage: Those Skills Last a Lifetime!

21:53 - No Fringe Benefits for You!

22:26 - Hundreds of Partners, Hundreds of Opportunities!

24:09 - Placement Metrics… 50% Job Market, 50% Military!

25:38 - How to Get In Touch

26:27 - Is BOCES Right for You?.. YES!

27:32 - Working Towards the Future: Young People DO Want to Work!

28:39 - Adult Learning Options

30:47 - Visit the Website: https://www.wswheboces.org/

31:27 - CTE Works

33:24 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to Michaels Group!

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Kelsey Martin and Craig Dittl, two project managers from MLB Construction! They work with all kinds of people, from experienced Boomers to green Gen Zs, and no matter what the project, they keep the team and clients happy and get things done! What's their secret? Listen to this episode and find out!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:00:15 - Introductions

00:02:13 - Who is Kelsey Martin?

00:04:32 - Who is Craig Dittl?

00:05:30 - Project Planning: Try to Get it Right Early, But Always Be Ready to Adapt!

00:06:55 - Project Engineers: All About Tasks!

00:09:21 - Lawyer, Accountant, and Therapist: All Rolled Into One!

00:11:06 - Estimation Takes Coordination

00:13:03 - Budget Boss

00:14:11 - Discovering MLB: The Right Balance

00:20:12 - Thriving with Challenges

00:21:25 - Looking Back: Kelsey’s History

00:24:30 - Success is Doing What You Say You Will!

00:26:01 - Directness: Know When (and When Not) To Use It!

00:30:32 - Different Generations: Same Team

00:36:06 - Relationships Matter… With EVERYONE You Work With!

00:38:15 - YouTube Learning: Free and Fast!

00:40:19 - The Network Queen (and a Chloe Cameo!)

00:44:58 - Networking Advice: Prepare Beforehand!

00:46:13 - A Stink Bug Attacks!

00:46:36 - Networking Advice: Give Yourself Time!

00:48:20 - Repeat Business: Take Care of Them, They’ll Take Care of You!

00:50:03 - Just a Phone Call Away: Email is for Chumps!

00:53:54 - Don’t Fear the Learning Curve!

00:55:55 - Is Blue Right for You? Time Management Tips

00:57:38 - Confidence Comes with Time!

01:00:43 - Go that Extra Mile!

01:01:56 - How to Get in Touch: mlbind.com

01:03:27 - Mass Retirement is Imminent! Take Advantage of It!

01:05:06 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson and visionary founder Derek Foster talk to Ben Rieth, co-founder and operator of Daigle Fire Solutions! While his business is literally based around fire prevention, his stories make it clear that every businessman needs to know how to deal with tough situations in the same way! There's plenty of tips for up-and-coming entrepreneurs in this episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introduction: Derek is the Main Host!

02:52 - What is Daigle Fire Solutions?

05:35 - Coming to DFS: A Risk Worth Taking

08:08 - Starting Your Own Business: Ben’s Story

10:07 - The Boss Steps In: How Involved Should You Be?

15:04 - Putting the Pro in Processes

16:59 - Under Pressure: A Fire Solution

18:08 - A Day in the Life of Ben Rieth

19:59 - Mistakes Don’t Matter: Reactions and Results Do!

22:00 - Problem-Solvers: Will You Pull the Cart, or Ride in It?

23:48 - Make a Decision: Stagnation Kills Everything

25:09 - A Skilled Juggler Has a Cool Hand… And a Great Team!

27:32 - The Mental Transition

30:04 - Acquiring New Clients… Go Talk to People!

33:33 - Marketing Generates the Leads… YOU Keep Them!

34:43 - The College Curse: Don’t Doubt Yourself! You CAN Do It!

37:04 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Morgan Pellitteri, the man behind TechSmart Inspections! While he worked white collar and with other employees in the past, Morgan rededicated himself to a new calling - running an entire home inspection operation himself! What made him make the change? How has he achieved success? Listen to this episode and find out!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Off-Tangent

00:49 - Show Begins: Mike Needs His Sleep!

02:35 - An Introduction to Morgan Pellitteri

03:54 - From Corporate to Crepes to Inspection

07:55 - The Sales Component

09:37 - Call Morgan, Maybe?

11:04 - Starting Small: It’s All About Communication!

13:05 - The Next Steps: Cold-Calling Strategies

16:12 - You’re Not for Everybody: A Story About Drawing the Line

21:04 - The Real Estate Boom… When Will it End?

23:14 - A One-Man Operation

25:55 - A Day in the Life

27:27 - One-Note Arnold

28:16 - Exercise and Meditation: The Benefits of Sober Living

29:46 - Work to Live

31:15 - The Next Generation: Shoutout to Edon, Jawid, Jonathan and Tim!

33:56 - Inspect = Protect

36:37 - Morgan’s Advice: Keep Learning!

38:47 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview four students at the Blue Collar College - Tim, Jonathan, Jawid and Edon! Their incredible stories showcase the strength of the Blue Collar spirit - between preserving heritage, community values, working hard to chase those dreams, and even acts of genuine heroism, the future for the next generation of Blue Collar workers is looking bright!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Be Careful with Gas Fires!

01:32 - Live from the Welding Room!

03:05 - Introductions: We’ve Got a Full Room!

08:46 - Honda Gang!

09:11 - Time Keeps on Slippin’

10:11 - Chasing the Dream

14:56 - Restoration Takes Dedication!

16:12 - Honda Gang Strikes Again!

17:23 - Blue Collar Gives Back

19:31 - Escaping a Fire… And Saving a Family!

24:54 - No Stranger to Danger

26:41 - An Incredible Community

27:47 - Gaining Experience, and Seeing Opportunity

31:28 - Security and Opportunity: Blue Collar’s Where It’s At!

35:42 - Attracting Talent: Show Some Support, and Respect!

38:50 - Owning a Shop Isn’t for Everyone… But What a Ride!

41:38 - A Creative Battering Ram to the Experience Wall

43:45 - Bringing the Modern and the Classic Together

47:44 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson and visionary founder Derek Foster interview three Blue Collar superstars - Amanda Triolo, Brian Correll, and Luke Scarcelli of Grasshopper Heating & Cooling! Grasshopper has been all the buzz - or rather, chirp - on the scene lately as their marvelous marketing, terrific teamwork and stellar service take the community by storm! What's the secret to their raid growth and success? We have some of the answers for you here in this episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

01:00 - Shoutout to Michaels Group: And Our Mission

02:29 - Introductions: The Grasshopper Team

06:58 - A Grasshopper Hops Forward

12:57 - A Sudden Swarm of Happy Hoppers

13:57 - Glory Be to Gary Grasshopper

14:49 - Business Ain’t for Babies!

17:18 - Carving Through COVID

19:23 - Everything Has a Solution!

20:24 - Keep Calm and Carry On

22:33 - Cultivating Culture and Valuing Values

29:47 - Inform and Educate: Do No Disservice

31:39 - Why Does It Matter? Sharing a Vision

34:22 - The Vision Board: Pipe the Perspective

35:57 - Employee-Focus Isn’t Just for Higher-Ups!

37:30 - Started from the Bottom… Now We’re Here

38:55 - Maintaining Morale

43:02 - Game Time

47:20 - Shoutout to Dean Leber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanmleber/

47:55 - Throttled Marketing

51:25 - Keep Those Customers!

54:45 - GrassLARPer

56:06 - How to Get in Touch: Amanda@gograsshopper.com

56:41 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson and visionary founder Derek Foster interview Jim Dawsey, the President of MLB Construction Services, LLC! Jim's come a long way in his life, from minimum-wage drudgery in a February rainstorm to running a premier multi-million dollar company! He learned no small amount of methods, strategies and secrets along the way... And if you listen to this episode, you just might learn a few for yourself!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Blue Collar Insider: Learning from Mistakes

01:48 - The Show Begins

02:57 - An Introduction to Jim Dawsey and the World of Construction

05:13 - A History You Can Count On: Jim’s Journey

09:39 - Taking the Next Step

11:33 - The Role Sharpens: Finding the Niche

13:11 - Sawing for Saratoga, and Driving With No Hands

14:27 - Learning on the Job: Experts Have a Lot to Give!

15:26 - Transitions: One Successful, One Not

18:52 - My Old Man

20:05 - Take it from Jim: Relationships are EVERYTHING!

23:38 - What’s Hot and What’s Not

25:26 - Jim’s Biggest Challenge: Adapting to the Economy

27:59 - Don’t Fly Out of Albany for a While!

28:51 - Forecasting and Planning

30:56 - Jim’s Biggest Mistake: Working with a Developer

35:11 - Chloe Speaks! And the Secret to Jim’s Success

37:05 - The Next Ownership Team

38:26 - What Role Does College Play?

39:58 - A Day in the Life of Jim Dawsey… Starts at 4:00 AM!

41:27 - A Coffee Conversation

43:57 - Jim’s on Drums, Mike’s Son’s on Guitar… This Editor’s on Bass! The Blue Collar Band

45:31 - Jim’s Key Piece of Advice: Through the Ups and Downs, Never Lose Your Passion!

48:37 - How to Get in Touch: Social Media’s the Way!

49:26 - Closing Remarks: Thanks for the Gift Bags!

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson and visionary founder Derek Foster interview the triple threat team of Juan, Jason, and Matt from Argyle's Hunt Companies! They've handled construction for some major players locally, but they didn't just stumble into the trust of those big league clients - they earned it! Have a listen to this episode and find out how!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

01:26 - An Introduction to Hunt Companies

03:45 - The Beginning: McDonald’s and You

06:06 - Director of Operations: Welcome to Argyle

08:02 - Matt: The Future

09:06 - Commercial vs. Residential Work

11:14 - The Record is Seven!

13:15 - Small, Focused Teams: The Ups and Downs of COVID

16:39 - Onboarding: A Constant Process (Shoutout to BOCES!)

19:14 - Experience Ain’t Cheap! Don’t Be Afraid to Train!

22:15 - Cultivating Culture

24:41 - Trickle-Down Culture: It Starts at the Top!

28:12 - Showing Support

30:16 - Kinks in the Supply Chain… Won’t Get Better Anytime Soon!

34:42 - Why Haven’t Costs Gone Back Down?

38:48 - Good Relationships… Are Based on Trust!

41:37 - Multi-Layered Profit-Earning: Waste Not!

43:26 - Advice to the Next Generation: Find Out What You Like to Do!

47:27 - How to Get in Touch

49:04 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our hosts Mike and Derek interview Taylor Hopeck, the Client Coordinator at Witt Construction! Her story perfectly showcases that sometimes, you choose the Blue Collar life... And sometimes, it chooses you!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introduction and Shoutouts

03:06 - Who is Taylor Hopeck?

04:48 - Supply Chain? More Like Supply Pain!

05:24 - Team and Client Coordination: How Taylor Handles It…

07:34 - … And How Derek Handles It

09:15 - Finding a Home in Home-Building

12:48 - Social Media: A Powerful Tool!

14:55 - A Day in the Life of Taylor Hopeck

16:43 - Field Experience is SO Important!

17:24 - From Being Green to Making Green

19:38 - Taylor’s Advice: It Never Hurts to Try! Knowledge is Power!

22:20 - Workforce Development: What Witt’s Working On

25:23 - When Email Becomes Snail Mail

27:57 - When Do You Need Taylor?.. Right Away!

32:33 - Keeping Your Free Time Free

34:53 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, Mike and Derek interview Bruce Hoffmann, the Work-Based Learning & Placement Coorindator at WSWHE BOCES! We and our kids have all had those classes that we just didn't want to take and asked the question "Why do I have to learn Trigonometry?" Bruce works hard to make sure his classes are the exact opposite - everything students learn from BOCES has a specific and real purpose! Give this episode a listen and find out just what kind of value BOCES has - not just for your kids, but also for you!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introduction

01:38 - What Does Bruce Hoffmann Do at BOCES?

05:15 - Workforce, Workforce, Workforce!

06:11 - Hands-On Learning

08:40 - What Happened to Wood & Metal Shop? Mike’s Experience

12:02 - Shoutout to Dr. Turina Parker!

12:44 - The BOCES Stigma: Moving Past It

14:44 - The Intern

16:54 - From BOCES to Bank: Placement Opportunities

19:12 - Getting Started with BOCES

23:38 - Setting Kids Up for Success: The BOCES Difference

25:15 - Running Out of Room

27:20 - Funding the Adult Programs

28:35 - Shoutout to Michaels Group, and All of Our Sponsors!

29:43 - Sponsoring BOCES Helps So Much, Too!

31:02 - BOCES Graduation: What it Looks Like

32:09 - Working with Home-Schoolers

33:07 - Reaching Students: How BCS Plans to Help

35:57 - How You Can Help

38:01 - The Typical Day of a BOCES Student

39:29 - Why Do I Need to Learn Trigonometry?

41:16 - Women in the Trades: BOCES’ Latest Initiative

42:46 - How to Get in Touch

44:23 - Drop Us Some Questions and Comments! hardhat@bluecollarstartup.io

In this episode, our visionary founder Derek Foster interviews Terry Hubbard, the founder, CEO and Sales Manager at Peak Environmental: Landscape Construction & Management Services! Terry's been working in his field since he was only 16 years old, and has grown his business to a multi-team unit with 25 employees, and room for more! How did he do it? What practices have led to his success? Derek learns the answers here, in this stellar episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introduction: Old Mike Nelson’s On the Farm!

00:46 - A Brief History of Terry Hubbard: Starting His Business at… 16?!

03:03 - The Next Step: Straight Out of School

04:34 - When it All Clicks

08:48 - Building a Solid Footing

10:20 - Overcoming Challenges

13:21 - Six Distinct Crews, 25 Employees!

15:52 - Shoutout to Luke Michaels and the Michaels Group!

16:19 - Training the New Blood: New Tools and New Tricks

19:42 - The Value of Proper Onboarding

21:46 - If You’re Not Training Your Employees… You’re Still Paying For It!

23:01 - Making Business a Game… Makes Profits Consistent, and Employees Dedicated!

28:17 - Where’s the Work Ethic?.. It’s Right There! Respect Your Team, and They’ll Work Hard For You!

30:53 - The Value of College… It’s Right for Some, But Not All!

32:00 - You ARE Good Enough!

33:08 - A Day in the Life of Terry Hubbard

35:14 - Meditation and Cryotherapy

36:01 - Terry’s Key Piece of Advice: Hire People Who Are Better Than You!

39:21 - Admitting You’re Not the Right Person for the Job

41:18 - Terry’s Day-to-Day Role: Sales Manager… For Now

43:13 - The Traction Model

45:31 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster have a chat with Vince LaTerra, the Project Manager at Bonacio Construction! If you live in Saratoga, you've heard of these guys, and there's a lot of advice this successful businessman has to offer in this episode! What is it? You'll have to listen to find out!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introduction: A Friendly Update

01:26 - Training Babies to Sleep

02:36 - Mike’s Son Locks Him Out

04:20 - It’s Time for the Show - With Vince LaTerra, Project Manager!

06:37 - 12 Jobs at Once?!

07:23 - Specialized Software? No Way! Notebook and Pencil!

09:08 - Determining Priorities

10:36 - Everything is a Problem

13:13 - Antics in the Attic

15:32 - Why Construction?

17:12 - Doing Right by Retention

19:18 - Getting the Train Back on Track

21:34 - The Resources You Should Have!

23:33 - Sourcing Staff

26:31 - The Bonacio Path: From Greenhorn to Construction Champ

28:15 - The Traits to Look For

30:13 - The Generation War

31:55 - Learning From the (Noisy) Old Guard… And Your Mistakes!

36:17 - Vince’s Secret to Success: Consistency!

37:18 - Manager and Salesman: Can the Roles Coexist?

39:00 - The 40 Under 40 Award, and the Shaken & Stirred Event

41:35 - Vince’s One Key Piece of Advice: Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses!

42:50 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Ivan Bell, the main man behind IBS Septic & Drain! He's got a lot to say about balancing home life and family life, giving 110%... And, most importantly, loving what you do!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introduction: The Rise of Ivan Bell

01:30 - Ivan’s Advice: Just Go Forward! Don’t Give Up and Carve Your Own Path!

02:42 - Seizing an Opportunity: Every Day is a (Fun) Battle!

04:09 - I Dig It, Man!

06:49 - Making the Change: From a One-Man Show to 20 Employees!

09:15 - Ivan’s Biggest Challenge: Balancing Work and Family

10:24 - The Family Business

12:52 - The Money Will Come

15:56 - When is it Time to Let Others Pick Up Some Slack?

18:24 - The Secret to Success: Love What You Do!

19:13 - Everything to Everyone… Great Album, But Not a Great Life Strategy!

22:54 - Shoutout to Warren Tire!

25:00 - Adversity Absolutely WILL Come! Be Ready!

26:39 - Respecting Your Employees is Important!

27:45 - Retirement? No Way!

29:48 - Say I’m the Man… What’s the Plan?

31:06 - Keep Your Heart in it… And Keep Going!

32:08 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Jim Countryman - the assistant professor of Applied Technologies at Hudson Valley Community College; AKA, The Blue Collar College! We know, we know - we've often said college isn't for everybody... But with amazing programs like Jim's, you can learn Blue Collar skills from start to finish - like automotive mechanics, aviation mechanics, HVAC, electrical engineering, and much, much more! Get the inside scoop on HVCC's stellar, affordable offerings for any and all students here, in this informative episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introduction: Who We Are, and What We Do

01:12 - Shoutout to Matthew Perry!

02:27 - An Introduction to Jim Countryman

05:08 - HVCC’s Amazing Programs: Aviation & Auto Mechanics, HVAC, Electrical Construction, and More!

06:13 - Enrollment is Through the Roof! How Wait-Listing Works

08:57 - A Complete Associate’s Degree… For $10,000?! And it Buys You so Much More!

12:00 - The All-or-Nothing Mentality… Time Management is a Bigger Challenge Than You Might Think!

14:46 - Trades Take Skill and Dedication: It’s Not an Easy, Free Ride!

16:31 - From Zero to Hero: No Prerequisites Required! You Don’t Even Need to Know What a Ratchet is!

18:30 - Determining Mechanical Ability… Surprises Galore!

20:34 - Metal Shop: A Thing of the Past? How STEM Made Trades-Learning Harder to Access

23:53 - Is The Blue Collar College Right for You? Don’t be Afraid to Try!

27:14 - Following the Path to Success… Time Flies, Put in Your 100%!

29:09 - Partnering With Local Employers: 100% Job Placement?!

33:33 - It’s Not About THE Trade… It’s About A Trade!

36:03 - Stigmas are Human Nature… But Opportunity is Not Exclusive to One Side! Do Your Homework!

38:25 - The Evolution of Trades Skills: So Much is Computerized Now!

39:29 - Got my Two-Year Degree… What’s Next?

42:31 - 120 Hours of Instruction: 20 Hours of Lectures, 100 Hours of Hands-On Practice!

44:23 - Perception is Not Necessarily Reality… We All Make Mistakes!

46:01 - Jim’s Key Piece of Advice: Talk With Experienced People!

47:26 - Crawling Out From Under the Social Media Rock: Have Real Conversations!

49:28 - How to Get in Touch With The Blue Collar College

51:15 - Closing Remarks

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Paul Lambert, the Project Manager at Bonacio Construction! If you're from Saratoga Springs or Rome, New York, you know these guys - but if not, don't worry! We'll fill you in on everything you need to know about Bonacio Construction and Paul Lambert here, in this stellar episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Paul Lambert - Bonacio Construction

00:15 - Introduction

01:35 - Who is Paul Lambert?

02:40 - What is Bonacio Construction? Where are They Based?

03:52 - What Does Bonacio Do?

07:33 - What’s Sonny Bonacio Like?

09:36 - How Paul Got his Start in the Trades

10:48 - Shoutout to Luke Michaels!

12:12 - Climbing the Ladder

16:14 - Problem-Solving: Every Blue Collar Job is This!

17:13 - Bonacio’s Structure and Systems… Are Relatively New!

20:10 - Tracking Time

21:42 - Hiring: Back in the Day vs. Now… Expectations and Priorities Have Changed!

24:10 - Two Kinds of People: Hard Workers, We Want You!

28:31 - Working Your Way Up… It’s Hard to be Patient Nowadays!

30:48 - Dangling the Carrot… Looking Ahead, Giving Motivation

34:31 - Workforce Development: School’s Not For Everyone, Get Out There and Work!

37:09 - Keep a Low Barrier to Entry: Train the New Workforce!

39:15 - From Your Best Employee to Your Best Subcontractor

41:19 - Retaining Your Workers

43:52 - Paul’s Secret to Success: Never Stop Climbing the Ladder! Keep Setting Goals!

46:00 - Looking at the Calendar

48:12 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our Host Mike Nelson and Visionary Founder Derek Foster interview Dustin Manny, the main man behind Manny Topsoil and Gravel! Dustin is all about working hard and doing the job right, and he tells us all about his methods, beliefs and styles right here in this episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Ryan van Amburgh - Career Jam

00:15 - Hello, Newspaper Truck! And a Snag in the Brewery

03:08 - There’s Always an Issue…

04:18 - Welcome, Dustin!.. Finally!

06:08 - An Introduction to Dustin Manny

09:07 - Hard Work is Easier When You’re Working for Yourself!

11:37 - Making the Jump to Self-Employment

15:43 - Does the Economy and Real Estate Market Affect Dustin’s Business?.. NO!

17:05 - The Challenges of Growth: Trucks Ain’t Cheap!

21:03 - A Two-Employee Business… Two is Plenty!

22:36 - Vacation, Have to Get Away… Slows Down Business, Though!

24:30 - From One Guy in a Truck to a Massive Company…

25:30 - … If You Can Get a Truck!

26:39 - Dustin’s Secret to Success: Hard Work!

28:57 - Working Blue Collar, You Don’t Need a Workout Regimen!

29:51 - Hey, Shit Happens!

33:29 - Time With the Kids… Blue Collar’s Big Downside

36:04 - Mike’s Kids Smash his Televisions

37:17 - College Isn’t for Everyone! There’s so Much Opportunity in Blue Collar Work!

42:09 - Routine? Nah! Up, Eat, and Go!

43:14 - Mike Nelson, (Semi) Professional Podcaster

44:01 - Dustin’s Marketing Secret: Diversify, Try New Things!

45:15 - Turn Off Your Damned Phone!

46:41 - What’s Hot? CDL Drivers, and Hard Workers of All Kinds!

48:32 - Dustin’s Key Piece of Advice: Pick Your Niche, and Master it!

49:49 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster talk to Ryan van Amburgh, the co-founder of Career Jam! His organization helps youths realize their potential and find the career pathways that are right for them, along with fostering development of the Blue Collar labor force and helping local companies find their next generation of workers!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Ryan van Amburgh - Career Jam

00:16 - Introduction

01:27 - What is Career Jam?

03:18 - Kids Entering the Trades

07:19 - Shoutout to RASP Incorporated and LISSMAC!

10:03 - What Does the Labor Force Look Like?

13:16 - Having a Hand in Workforce Development

15:30 - The Role of Our Schools in Workforce Development

20:56 - Career Pathways: Paving the Way

25:56 - Why is Workforce Development so Splintered Between Groups?

30:19 - The Labor Pinch… Ryan Saw it Coming!

33:39 - Upcoming Career Jam Events

36:33 - How Can My Business Support Career Jam?

39:16 - Impressing Visitors is So Rewarding!

44:42 - Ryan’s #1 Hiring Tip: Collaborate at the Sources!

46:14 - Career Jam 2054: What’s Next?

47:42 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

50:24 - Send Your Questions to hardhat@bluecollarstartup.io

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Tom Shanley, a Daigle Cleaning Systems franchisee from Westchester, New York! They discuss the many benefits of franchising - including streamlined processes, scalable goalsetting, and more! Take a listen and find out how both Derek and Tom made Daigle Cleaning Systems great!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Tom Shanley - Daigle Cleaning Systems of Westchester

00:15 - Introduction

01:20 - The Blue Collar Timeline: From Side Hustle to Franchise

06:46 - Introducing… Tom Shanley!

09:33 - Only One Full-Time Job and a Side Hustle? LAZY!

11:21 - The Power of a Franchise

13:35 - The DOS

14:55 - Picking a Cleaning Franchise… Daigle Was the Best!

16:25 - Why Franchise?..

19:19 - … To Benefit From the Experience of Others!

21:20 - Switching to Daigle: Low Buy-In, High Scalability!

24:29 - Sales vs. Operations: Which Background is More Important?

27:10 - Goal For Next Year: Double the Revenue!

29:05 - Kitchens are Filthy! Hood Cleaning is Necessary!

30:32 - Daily Routines: Plan Your Time as Efficiently as You Can!

32:00 - Tom’s One Key Piece of Advice: Do a Great Job!

33:40 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Brad Lewis, the hard-working owner of Lewis Lawn Care & Masonry! He started at a very young age without even having a car to take him between clients; but he grew his "side hustle" into a successful business with hard work and dedication! Take a listen and find out how!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Brad Lewis - Lewis Lawn Care & Masonry

00:00:15 - Introduction: Marketing with “Money” Mike Nelson

00:02:25 - A Brief Overview of Brad Lewis: Master Mason, Handy Hardscaper!

00:04:42 - Starting Young: Want a New Skateboard? Get Mowin’!

00:07:04 - Learning From (and Teaching) Sub-Contractors… Way up High!

00:08:52 - Securing Equipment… Without a Car!

00:11:45 - Working Within Walking Distance

00:13:24 - Running the Mile

00:15:46 - Pathetic Pay Entering White Collar… Screw It! Blue All the Way!

00:18:22 - Tutoring Economics… But Teaching? No Way! Brad’s a Machine!

00:20:30 - Sleep is for the WEAK! Work, Learn, and Work Some More!

00:23:14 - Back to the Present: Home and Apartment Rehabbing with the Crew

00:26:59 - Doing Nothing?.. No Way! FIRE Movement Counter-Intuitive?

00:31:30 - Restoring Busted-Up Homes: “Be a Good Steward”

00:34:45 - Don’t Be Afraid of Your Employees Spreading Their Wings - Support It!

00:40:01 - Finding Customers: The Single Most Important Part of Business!

00:44:12 - The Future… Let it Come! You Can’t Plan For the Unknown!

00:46:27 - Lawnwork?.. Not Worth It! Get a Goat!

00:50:20 - “Foster Freedom”: Value Your Workers and Their Families!

00:53:17 - Brad’s #1 Piece of Advice: Spread Your Work Out, Don’t Try to “Burn a Year”!

00:56:40 - The 5:30 AM Riser: Get Emails Out of the Way and Plan Your Day!

00:58:20 - Closing Remarks: Masonry, Not Masonary! hardhat@bluecollarstartup.io

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Mark Miller - his old boss, and the main man behind Performance Industrial! They talk about the struggles early businesses face and how they overcame them, Mark's well-studied practices and methods, and even how Mark overcame a complete relabeling and brand change! You won't want to miss this informative episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Mark Miller - Performance Industrial

00:16 - Introduction

00:48 - A Brief History of Mark Miller: Trucking Right Out of High School!

03:51 - Getting Dirty with Americlean: You’ve Got to Have a Plan!

04:56 - The E-Myth: A Revelation! Plan it Smart and the Stress Melts Away!

09:08 - Is Consulting Worth It? Yes - If You Really Learn From It!

12:03 - There’s So Much to Learn: So Learn the Right Stuff!

13:57 - Mike’s Claim to Fame: Being Fired by Mark?!

16:27 - Are You Meant to Work For Someone Else? Find Out!

17:56 - Hiring? Don’t Use Indeed - Go to Sandy’s Clam Bar!

18:33 - From Americlean to Performance Industrial: Why the Rebrand?

20:22 - Every Company is a Performance: From Front Stage to Back!

22:34 - Shifting Focus: What to Consider

26:12 - Building a Company: All About Personal Communication, Before AND After the Internet!

29:08 - Marketing is Powerful… But to a Greenhorn, Selling is So Much More!

31:08 - The Golden Phrase: Make it Happen!

33:42 - The Button: “I’ll Make it Happen!”

34:46 - Mark’s Biggest Challenge… Himself! If You Don’t Become Better, You Become Bitter!

36:13 - Mark’s Biggest Mistake: Hiring the Wrong People! Make Choices Carefully, At Work and at Home!

37:37 - Work Ethic: It’s Easy to Criticize, But Everyone is Motivated Differently!

41:24 - Things Have Changed… But For the Better! There’s Nothing Wrong With Safety and Life Balance!

41:59 - The Value of College: Very Dependent! Think it Over First!

43:52 - School Teaches You the Core Skills… But Nothing About Entrepreneurship or Salesmanship!

45:31 - Not Going to College Doesn’t Mean Burger-Flipping! Make Your Own Success!

47:23 - Mark’s Key Piece of Advice: Connect With Other Business Owners! Success Leaves Clues!

50:01 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Luke Michaels, the main man behind Michaels Group Homes! His third-generation business has undergone a lot of trials and changes throughout the years, and Derek and Mike can definitely relate - find out just what they went through by giving this episode a listen!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Luke Michaels - Michaels Home Group

00:16 - Introduction

02:51 - Three Generations of Michaels Group Homes!

06:03 - When Life Gives You Lemons…

06:51 - Whiny Moments: Don’t Ever Let Monday Ruin Your Sunday!

08:44 - Seizing an Opportunity: Nothing Wrong With It!

11:21 - Living Up to the Legacy… Best Not to Think About It!

13:44 - Stick to the Process; But Update It When Necessary!

17:00 - Applying Economics to Homebuilding

19:38 - Luke’s Biggest Challenge: Dealing With the Development Red Tape!

23:02 - Some Excellent Advice: If You Can, Work for Yourself!

28:01 - Preparing For the Market Stabilization

31:03 - Youth Opportunities

36:28 - Only Let Your Organization Grow as Big as You Can Keep it Running Smoothly!

40:45 - Is College Right For You? Yes: IF You Have a Plan!

43:04 - Living With a Psychologist

43:46 - Routines Help Keep You Grounded: Mike Loves Podcasts!

46:35 - Luke’s Favorite Podcasts: Joe Rogan, and Doughboys!

47:31 - Our Goal: To Reach, Connect and Aid Current and Future Tradespeople!

49:19 - Tech Jobs: Sexy, But Not Necessarily Secure! Trades Can Be Recession-Proof!

51:45 - There’s a Lot of Opportunity Locally! No Inattentive National Builders Here!

52:33 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Anthony Caruso, the main man behind Caruso Builders of New York! They discuss Anthony's start at 20 years of age, how he grew his business to work on multi-million dollar homes, how his company dealt with the COVID crisis and the labor shortage, and more in this in-depth episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Anthony Caruso - Caruso Home Builders

00:16 - Introduction

00:56 - A Brief History of Anthony Caruso and Caruso Builders

05:09 - Before Construction: When it Was Time to Go Blue

08:56 - Starting Blue at 20: Blue and Green!

09:54 - Employees and Subcontractors: Who Does Which Job?

11:37 - What Goes Into a Three-Million Dollar Home: Come Visit the Blue Collar Mansion!

14:18 - Bunker-Buildin’: Hope For the Best, But Prepare For the Worst!

16:18 - The COVID Hurdle: Changed Many Lives, For Better or Worse!

18:15 - Expanding Slowly, But Surely

21:17 - Speculating Land: A Not-Often-Offered Advantage that Caruso Builders Offers!

22:28 - Scoping Out Customers: You Shouldn’t Do Business With Everyone!

25:39 - Tradesman Shortages… May Only Get Worse! Those Who Remain Will Control the Market!

28:12 - Average Ages: The Blue-Collar Market is Strongest in the 40s and 50s!

30:14 - The Caruso Secret: No Hesitation! No Surrender!

32:13 - Routines & Obligations: Not Much Free Time!

34:48 - What Time is Okay to Text? “Scheduled Send” is a Fantastic Innovation for Night Owls and Early Birds!

36:58 - Editor’s Note: I Can Verify That He Really Does Do This.

37:23 - Work Ethic, Where Have You Gone? How Are People Making Things Work Without It?

40:12 - Goal-Setting and Scaling: Planning Ahead

42:54 - Anthony’s One Key Piece of Advice: Never Give Up! Plan For Success and You’ll Have It!

43:44 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Tom Brizzell, the main man behind Custom Craft Builders of Brunswick! They discuss Tom's zen-like approach towards his business, the challenges he faced starting both his business and his family in his twenties, and more in this in-depth episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Tom Brizzell - Custom Craft Builders LLC

00:16 - Introduction: Mike’s Crazy Cider

01:31 - A Brief History of Tom Brizzell and Custom Craft Builders

03:35 - A Learning Experience: A Mistake You Learn From is No Mistake!

06:16 - Starting in Your 20s… Talk About Stressful!

06:40 - Owning Your Own Business Does NOT Equal More Free Time (At Least at First)!

08:12 - Working After (or Before) Hours… The Perspective Change Can Make a World of Difference!

10:17 - Tom’s Biggest Mistake: Hiring Friends!

14:33 - The Big Challenge Today: The Economy, and Explaining it to Customers!

17:58 - The Secret to Tom’s Success… Going With the Flow!

19:23 - Succeeding Without Marketing… Your Work Must Be TOP NOTCH to Speak for Itself!

20:37 - Stacking Jobs: How Many is Too Many? It Depends on What Role You Play!

22:00 - Be the “Icing on the Cake”

24:15 - “Today is Going to Suck”: Prepare for Adversity!

26:01 - Work Ethic and the Shifting Expectations of Society

29:55 - From Working for Someone to Working for Yourself: A Difficult Transition!

32:23 - College is Good… If You Know Why You’re Going!

34:35 - Tom’s Routine: Strict Planning Works for Some, But Not Tom!

35:51 - Tom’s One Key Piece of Advice: Don’t Give Up!

36:40 - What Keeps Tom Going?.. Loving What He Does!

37:27 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Matt Phelps, the owner of Metabolic Fitness! They discuss how Matt got started, the stellar programs the facilities offer, and more in this informative episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Matt Phelps - Metabolic Fitness

00:16 - Introduction

02:03 - A Brief History of Matt Phelps and Metabolic Fitness

07:03 - Derek Training with Matt… In a Warehouse in Schenectady?!

08:13 - How Can Physical Fitness Play a Role in Your Success?

09:59 - Metabolic’s Class Structuring: Don’t “Find a Time”, MAKE the Time!

14:05 - Careful Scheduling: The Key to Success

16:24 - Nutrition: A Misunderstood and Surprisingly Simple Component of Fitness!

18:23 - How Personalized Should Nutrition Be?

19:47 - Intermittent Fasting: Just a Means to an End!

20:40 - Metabolic’s Coaches: Not Just Exercise, but Diet, Too!

21:20 - What’s Next for Metabolic?

23:20 - How Does Metabolic Scale so Quickly? With the Right People!

25:24 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Vince Laurenzo from Quick Response Restoration! Vince's story really hammers home that sometimes, working in a Blue Collar field chooses you, and it's up to you whether you answer the call with your own hard work and dedication!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

Vince Laurenzo - Veteran-Made Woodworks

00:15 - Introduction

01:17 - What Does Quick Response Do?

02:06 - What Does Vince Lorenzo Do?

02:35 - Taking Over the Family Business

03:43 - Vince’s Original Sales Role: Why He Left

05:14 - Why is Restoration Consolidating? And How Does Quick Response Fight Back?

06:55 - What Does Vince Do With the Extra Time in His Day?

08:05 - Challenges of Entering a Family Business

09:54 - Working the Business as a Youth, VS. Now: Experience Matters!

13:25 - Seal-Coating Prices: Should’ve Bought From Vince When He Was 16!

14:14 - Mike and Derek’s Recommendation: Listen to Andy Frisella, Too!

15:25 - How to Succeed in a Saturated Market: A Personalized Touch!

18:00 - Fridge Magnets: Stainless Steel Has Ruined Everything!

18:17 - Derek’s Personal Guarantee: Quick Response Does GREAT Work!

19:14 - Radio Advertising: Still a Successful Marketing Method!

21:36 - How to Manage FIFTY Employees: Treat Them Right!

22:45 - Daigle’s HR Department: Once You Reach a Certain Size, You NEED One!

23:36 - Hiring For Blue Collar Trades… Very Difficult!

24:20 - Darn You, Salt Life! Vacations Be Damned!

25:49 - Where Does Quick Response Find Talent?.. Indeed, and Employee Recommendations! (For Now)

26:58 - Mike’s Farm: Now Has a Brand New Pig, Penelope! She’s a Princess!

28:19 - COVID’s Contribution to the Labor Shortage: How Did it Change So Much?..

29:32 - … But a Big Shift is Likely Coming!

31:07 - The Next Steps For Quick Response: Big Growth Incoming!

32:40 - New Office Location: Where Could it Be?

33:17 - Vince’s Key to Success: Hard Work! That’s It!

34:25 - A Typical Day in Vince’s Life: Being On Call is No Joke!

36:09 - Working in Restoration, You See it All! Stranger Than Fiction!

37:10 - How to Get in Touch With Quick Response: Give Them a Call!

38:20 - How Vince Achieves Work-Life Balance… He Doesn’t!

39:40 - Being On-Call Isn’t Just for Restoration! MARKETING EMERGENCIES!

40:37 - The Trade-Off: Employees and Bosses Alike Have Their Own Sets of Problems!

41:45 - Contractors… Better Book in Advance, Because There’s a LONG Wait!

43:26 - Does the Economic Slump Affect Daigle?.. Only A Little!

44:07 - Calling Back Customers: A Surprisingly Effective Strategy!

44:25 - Quick Response’s Unique Situation: Recession-Proof!

45:07 - Mike’s Other Podcast: Faces of Veterans! Check it Out!

46:04 - College: Go For the Right Reasons, or Don’t Go at All!

49:16 - Shotgunning Beers, Yee-Haw!

49:49 - Closing Remarks

In this Episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Anthony Guadagnino, owner and operator of Veteran-Made Woodworks! Anthony shares some great stories about past successes - and failures - and discusses his workman's philosophy in this brand new episode!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

Anthony Guadagnino - Veteran-Made Woodworks

00:16 - Introduction: We’re on the Scene!

01:54 - A Basic Overview of Anthony Guadagnino

03:24 - A Basic Overview of Veteran-Made Woodworks

06:22 - His Greatest Customers: Patriots of all Kinds!

07:49 - Business Profits: Not for Vacations, But Building the Business Bigger!

09:12 - Chain of Command: Comes Natural to Veterans… Not Always to Civilians!

11:03 - Sentimental Pieces Deserve the Strictest Quality Control!

12:07 - Mike & Derek Take a Look at a Flamethrower

15:18 - Your First Employees: The Hurdle of Hiring Help

18:18 - A Very Special Customer, and a Very Special Night

19:57 - More Special Customers

21:09 - Training Your Next Competitor: Keep Your Eyes Peeled!

23:05 - Anthony’s Biggest Mistake: Overworking!

25:29 - Maintaining Health = Maintaining Success: Make the Time!

26:51 - Upcoming Content: Stay Tuned!

28:20 - The Value of Toughness: Physical AND Mental!

30:55 - Mental Toughness: Patience, Critical Thinking, Empathy… Keep a Level Head!

33:41 - Motivation vs. Discipline: One Depends on Your Emotions, One Doesn’t!

36:01 - Getting Excited Over Gas Being $3.89 a Gallon… Take Whatever Wins You Can!

38:10 - Derek Foster: Super-Sonic Machine! Speeding up Your Processes

39:39 - Being Able to Say No: When to Say When?

40:52 - Early on, Say Yes, Get the Money in!.. Later, Know Your Business’ Limits!

42:56 - Looking Back… Be Proud of How Far You’ve Come!

45:00 - The Logos: Creating Them Like a Tattoo!

46:18 - Lighting Cigars With a Blowtorch!.. And Some Brand Recommendations

47:35 - Anthony’s One Final Piece of Advice: Do What You Can Yourself, but Don’t be Afraid to Outsource!

49:52 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch With Veteran-Made Woodworks

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Patrick Farnan from Next Level Finishes! Patrick really hit it home for us that running a successful business doesn't need to wait - it can start as soon as you're willing to put the time and work in!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

Patrick Farnan - Next Level Finishes

00:16 - Introduction

01:21 - The First Six Months: Making the Transition and Learning From Your Mistakes

05:51 - The Moment: A Failure That Opens Your Eyes

08:20 - Starting (and Running) Your Own Business is Not Easy!

10:01 - The “Stepping Stone” - How to Approach Your Mentor

13:39 - Farnan’s Most Important Tip - Be Prepared For Anything!

14:37 - When Is It Time to Transition From Side Gig to Full-Time?

16:40 - Can a Finance Degree Help With Bookkeeping Operations?

18:37 - The Biggest Roadblock: Dealing With Naysayers (Inside Your Circle and Out!)

22:22: - College: Weigh the Cost and Benefits to You Carefully!

23:30 - Work Ethic: Where Has it Gone?

26:20 - Secret to Success: Hard Work, a Support System… And a Little Luck!

27:32 - Hiring: It’s Important to Learn How to Treat Your Workers!

30:36 - Mobile Phones: Boon to Consumers, Bane to Business Owners!

31:46 - Morning Routines

33:31 - What’s Next?

35:05 - Closing Thoughts & Contact Info

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Matthew Perry from the Auto-Body Program at Hudson Valley Community College! Matt highlights for us that there need not always be a line between a college degree and trade schooling; sometimes, you can have both!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

Matthew Perry - Hudson Valley Community College

00:16 - Introduction

07:13 - HVCC’s Auto-Body Program: What it Offers and Where It Can Take You

15:41 - Who Can Benefit From the Program? Anybody!

19:28 - Evolving Car Technology: Keeping Up With the Times

25:49 - Student Success: An Uplifting Track Record!

30:39 - Hailstorms: A (Car) Roofer’s Best Friend

32:46 - A Golden Chance: Come in Early, Stay Longer, Work Smart, and Make a Mint!

36:15 - Work is What You Make of It!

38:05 - Enrollment: Easy Options Galore!

40:39 - How to Know if Auto-Body Would Be a Good Career Path For You

42:24 - How to Get in Touch and Closing Thoughts

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Matt DeFazio from DeFazio's Pizza of Troy and Albany! This episode really highlights that starting with an already-successful business is one thing, but it's what you (and your team) put into it that can make it grow... Or let it crash and burn!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast.

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

Matt DeFazio - DeFazio's Pizza

00:16 - Introductions

06:25 - DeFazio’s Scale; Past, Present and Future

12:24 - Rising From Hidden Gem to Famous Diamond

16:23 - His Biggest Challenge - Not Finding Workers, But Dealing With Them!

23:00 - Business Owners - Not Out Golfing All Day!

26:12 - Name-Drop of the AWESOME Editor

26:31 - DeFazio’s Biggest Struggle - Online Ordering!

32:05 - The Secret to DeFazio’s Success: Hard Work, But Also Cutting Yourself Some Slack!

36:14 - The Importance of Work Ethic and Common Sense Scheduling

40:04 - DeFazio’s Coaching Experience: How It Helped Him Run His Business, Too!

42:36 - Owning a Business - A Constant, Validating Challenge

45:20 - DeFazio’s “Barstool” Reviewer Score - Sky High! Delicious Food Galore!

51:05 - Final Piece of Advice, and How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Jennifer Lawrence from SEAT Center! Jennifer makes it clear for us that with the right training and support, anyone can succeed!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become blue collar business owners.

Social Enterprise And Training (SEAT) Center - Jennifer Lawrence

00:16 - Introduction

03:15 - SEAT Center’s Origin Story

06:18 - Finding Your SEAT: How to Engage With the Center

13:49 - Staffing Opportunities

20:26 - The Success of SEAT’s Graduates

24:15 - Saying Yes: The Key to Success

29:48 - Key Advice - Have a Plan For Your Business’ Scale

32:36 - The Power of No: Know When to Say When!

33:40 - SEAT’s Plans For the Future

38:44 - Mental Toughness Training: Develop Your Strengths!

44:52 - Morning Routines

48:10 - Socializing and Human Limitations

52:16 - The Scope and Format of Planning: Pick Ways That Work For You!

55:28 - Final Piece of Advice and How to Get in Touch With SEAT

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Mike Robyck and Matt Roberts from MR² Construction Services! They make it clear for us that no matter what your background or how you start up, you can make your business shine with enough work - and a little luck!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become blue collar business owners.

Mike Robyck & Matt Roberts - MR² Construction Services

00:16 - Introductions

05:20 - What Motivated Them To Start Their Business?

11:50 - Managing Employees: Strategies and Complications

13:56 - Strategizing the Expansion of a Business

18:55 - Finding the Right People For the Job

22:16 - Commercial Break

22:41 - Rags to Riches: Doing What It Takes

26:36 - Adapting to Stress

30:12 - The MR2 Process: Structure is Crucial!

34:10 - Recreation: Mike and Matt’s Hobbies

39:32 - MR2’s Secret to Success

42:44 - Thoughts on Work Ethic

43:38 - MR2’s Final Piece of Advice

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Randy Rowe from Farrell Brothers Plumbing & Heating! Randy makes it clear for us that running a franchise (or two) can be in the cards for anyone who's willing to put the work in!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become blue collar business owners.

Randy Rowe - Farrell Brothers Plumbing & Heating

00:16 - Introductions

05:56 - Randy’s Franchises: What the Value Is

13:41 - Adding Businesses: What to Look For (and What to Avoid)

16:50 - Randy’s Biggest Challenge: Finding Workers!

21:43 - Randy’s Daily Routine

23:48 - Commercial Break

24:25 - Randy’s Thoughts on Work Ethic: It Can Be Taught!

26:18 - A Fifty-Year-Old Toilet?

27:08 - College: Is It the Right Choice?

28:59 - Business-Planning and Goal-Setting: Retirement’s a Long Way Off!

In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Bryan Berry from Color Code Painting! Bryan makes it clear for us that no amount of adversity is insurmountable as long as you're willing to put your nose to the grindstone and work towards your goals!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become blue collar business owners.

Bryan Berry - Color Code Painting

00:16 - Introduction

03:58 - Achieving the Balance: The Fine Line Between Complacency and Valuing Yourself and Your Accomplishments

05:55 - Color Code Painting - From an Apprenticeship to an Award-Winning Business

11:57 - The Pivotal Moment: When it Was Time For Bryan to Work For Himself Full-Time

17:02 - Bryan's Time in Prison: A Transformative Experience

25:11 - Your Biggest Obstacle in Business... Can Be Yourself!

30:36 - Commercial Break

31:00 - Bryan's Tips & Tricks: How to Keep Yourself (and Your Workers) Motivated

43:14 - Bryan's Secrets to Success!

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Dr. Turina Parker from New York BOCES! Dr. Parker makes it clear for us that properly directed education is the best route towards success - whatever you happen to study!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become blue collar business owners.

New York BOCES - Dr. Turina Parker

Check it out at: https://www.boces.org/

00:16 - Introduction

01:30 - BOCES' Approach to Adult Learning: Technical Trades Galore!

06:04 - BOCES' Approach to Child Learning: Getting Excited About Learning!

09:14 - Derek Steps In!

09:53 - The Student Stigma Against BOCES: How Baseless It Really Is!

13:15 - Women in the Trades: What BOCES Is Doing About It

18:54 - List of What Trade Learning BOCES Offers

20:33 - How Do I Know if BOCES Is Right For Me, My Child, or My Business?

22:22 - Commercial Break

23:01 - Overcoming Barriers: How BOCES Makes Itself Known and Available

27:03 - Women in the Trades Part 2: Measured Success and Aspirations

29:23 - Student-Focused Learning: Individualizing the Experience

33:13 - How to Get in Touch With BOCES

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Matt Smith from Ace Home Inspections! Matt makes it clear for us that the best thing about blue-collar businesses is the motivation that goes behind them - if you believe, you can achieve!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become blue collar business owners. 

Ace Home Inspections - Matt Smith

00:17 - Introduction

01:19 - Interview Begins

02:48 - Prospective Homeowners Should Want to Be Informed

09:41 - Derek Foster Refuses to Visually Cameo But Is With Us in Spirit

10:03 - Ace’s Success, And How Difficult Founding and Running a Business Can be

16:33 - What Made Matt Decide to Start His Business

19:17 - Extra Help Matt Hired, and the Reasons Why

24:45 - Commercial Break

25:13 - Interview Recommences; Matt Refuses To Leave, Mike Reveals His Favorite Timelord

25:36 - Matt Talks Metrics: What to Keep an Eye on

31:55 - Work Ethic

33:12 - College Education

40:33 - Daily Routine

43:29 - Matt’s Number-One Tip For Success

44:58 - Closer: How to Get In Touch With Mike and Ace Home Inspections

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Josh Jewett from Cole’s Collision... Some really great stories here on growing a business from zero to 90 employees, with multiple locations and more! Definitely a must-hear episode!

Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/MUCmeTQGtIg

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

01:17 - No Choice But to Be a Car Guy

01:50 - Hudson Valley Mechanical Course...

04:09 - ... It’s a Unique Program

06:26 - Starting a Lifelong Career

14:45 - Cat Food and Crackers

17:29 - A Hailstorm: A Saving Grace

21:09 - Networking... Is Working!

24:00 - Growth Through Acquisition

26:55 - When Things Go South…

28:40 - Trying to Grow a Business; Not Kill a Business!

30:43 - Quadrupling the Business

37:16 - Growing or Dying

37:53 - Biggest Challenge 

42:20 - Mini Companies Inside Your Company

45:22 - Certifications

47:22 - The Mosaic Basic Things You Need as a Solid Employee

47:38 - Apprentice Program

In this episode, our Host Mike Nelson interviews Jamie Magur from Troy Grooming Company. Jamie really highlighted for us that no matter what your story is, no matter where the road has taken you... You CAN start over, and you CAN be successful!

Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/2WP4Pc8Jp4I

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

Troy Grooming Company - Jamie Magur

01:19 - Barbershops are on the Return!

01:56 - Cutting Hair in the Garage 

02:56 - “It’s in the Family”

03:13 - Uncle Tony Disrupting the Game

05:38 - Keep You Coming Back 

08:31 - You Pay for the Company, and Get the Haircut for Free!

08:57 - What it Takes to Run a Barbershop in the Current Environment

11:36 - “...Learn a Trade on YouTube…”

15:14 - Biggest Challenge - Starting Over

23:25 - The Resurgence of Many Trades in the Last 5 to 10 Years: Barbers, Butchers, and More

24:25 - Why He Went to College

29:30 - Work Ethic

30:44 - What the Younger Generation is Looking For

32:32 - Going Backwards 

34:16 - Morning Routines

36:27 - Goal-Setting and Planning?

39:38 - Giving Back... And the "Curse Jar"

41:08 - One Piece of Advice 

42:21 - If You Love it... Stick With it!

42:35 - College is Not the Only Way

46:01 - How to Get in Touch

In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Devon Camenga from Camenga Construction. Devon really highlights how to go from no-hustle to side-hustle, and then how to turn that side-hustle into your full-time gig! Big secret to success here? We'll give you a hint: Reputation.

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

Devon Camenga - Camenga Construction

02:53 - Who is Camenga Construction, and What Do They Do?

05:12 - The Difference in Demand Between Now, and Just 5 Years Ago

11:23 - Young Blue Collar Labor Force

14:18 - Soloprenuer!

14:47 - Looking For an Apprentice.

16:40 - Making the Jump from Educator to Full-Time Contractor...

18:57 - ... It's a Scary Leap.

21:04 - Your Reputation is EVERYTHING!

22:14 - You Have to Know How to Network

24:21 - The Plight of the Adirondack Contractor

27:58 - Mentors Along the Way

30:15 - Secret to Success

32:11 - State of Blue Collar Industries

44:26 - Things to Consider - Trade School IS an Option!

47:06 - Mental Toughness...

49:01 One Bad Job