The Skilled Trade Rescue Podcast

Martin King

Resouces to start an Amazing Skilled Trade career journey WITH NO DEBT.

  1. 11/16/2025

    How to Prepare Your Skilled-Trade Business for Sale: Clean Books, Valuation Tips & Exit Planning with Jordan Gentry

    If you’re an HVAC, electrical, plumbing, construction, or welding business owner thinking about selling your company someday, this episode is a must-watch. In this VLOG, Martin talks with Jordan Gentry of Iron Oak Accounting about how skilled-trade contractors can maximize business value, clean up their books, strengthen profitability, and prepare for a smooth business exit—years before they plan to retire. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to prepare a skilled-trade business for sale and what buyers look for Why clean bookkeeping and accurate QuickBooks data can increase valuation Common financial mistakes contractors make with Section 179 and asset purchases Succession planning strategies for owners who want a key employee to take over How to build a tax-efficient 401(k) and benefits package to retain top trade talent The real reason most contractors struggle with bookkeeping, taxes, and financial planning When to consider buying your building vs. continuing to lease Why consolidators are acquiring HVAC, electrical, and construction companies—and what it means for you Jordan also breaks down how a “one-stop-shop” accounting firm supports trade businesses from startup to exit, including tax planning, wealth management, and long-term retirement planning for owners. Whether you're growing your contracting business, improving your books, or planning your eventual exit, this episode gives you the practical, real-world financial guidance every trade business owner needs.

    28 min
  2. 11/15/2025

    Financial Habits Tradespeople Need to Start Using RIGHT NOW

    In this episode of the Skilled Trade Rescue Podcast, host Martin King sits down with Kevin Carney, owner of Pier One Insurance Group and veteran financial advisor. Together, they unpack practical money strategies that every skilled trade professional should know. From maximizing your 401(k) and IRA to building a six-month emergency fund, Kevin explains the real-world habits that separate financial stress from financial freedom. You’ll also learn about disability insurance, budgeting, and how to protect your income if the unexpected happens. Whether you’re a new apprentice or a seasoned trades business owner, this episode delivers actionable tools to take control of your money and your future. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction to Kevin Carney 2:00 – The missing piece: financial training in the trades 3:00 – Where to start: 401(k), IRA, and annuities 5:00 – Budgeting and paying yourself first 7:00 – Disability insurance: why it matters 12:00 – Dollar-cost averaging explained 15:00 – The “Bucket Approach” to saving and investing 18:00 – Managing emotions when markets drop 20:00 – 401(k)s and ACA subsidies for self-employed tradespeople 23:00 – Roth vs. Traditional IRA—Kevin’s take 25:00 – Why every small business owner needs a CPA 27:00 – Kevin’s business, licensing, and how to reach him 🎧 Listen to more episodes and join the Skilled Trade Rescue community at: 👉 https://skilledtraderescue.com #SkilledTrade #FinancialFreedom #MoneyMindset #TradesPeople #401k #Budgeting #FinancialLiteracy #MoneyMuscle #SkilledTradeRescue

    28 min
  3. Money Mistakes KILLING Skilled Trade Professionals’ Finances

    10/25/2025

    Money Mistakes KILLING Skilled Trade Professionals’ Finances

    🎙 PODCAST SHOW NOTES Guest: Dan Capote — Financial Advisor | 30 Years Experience | Holistic Planner Host: Martin King – Founder, Skilled Trade Rescue Episode Summary: Dan Capote reveals the real-world money habits separating financially free tradespeople from those trapped in the paycheck-to-paycheck grind. From budgeting basics to buy/sell agreements, this conversation shows how to future-proof your trade career — even if you’ve never taken a finance class. Key Topics: Income protection for hands-on professions Emergency funds & cyclical income planning Smart spending vs “toy rich, cash poor” mentality Creative benefits strategies for small employers Navigating health insurance subsidy changes Building your financial dream team (CPA + advisor + attorney) Quotes to Highlight: “If you’re a tradesperson, you’re the ATM. If you get hurt, the money stops.” – Dan Capote “Stop trying to look successful — start building success.” – Martin King Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Dan’s background 02:00 – The real risks of working without disability coverage 05:00 – Budgeting & emergency funds for cyclical income 09:00 – Why financial education is missing in the trades 12:00 – How benefits help you keep good employees 16:00 – Upcoming healthcare subsidy shifts every contractor must know 19:00 – Why you need a financial team — not just a bookkeeper 22:00 – Smart protection moves for young business owners 25:00 – Buy/Sell agreements & planning for the unexpected 27:00 – Final advice for tradespeople ready to level up Join the Skilled Trade Rescue community for free financial tools, expert mentors, and career-growth resources → [SkilledTradeRescue.com]

    27 min
  4. 11/01/2023

    The Elevator to Success: 🛠️💼 Chris Gutkes, President of Island Elevator

    Chris didn't just climb the career ladder; he was air-dropped into the hot seat. 🔥 He talks candidly about transitioning from the field to the front office, mastering new skills, and leading a 30+ member team. His story is a testament to the power of grit, apprenticeship, and lifelong learning. 📚✨ As a fourth-generation elevator mechanic, Chris reveals the secrets to standing out and making a mark in the family business. 🏗️🧬 From signing up for the army to counting nuts and bolts, his path was anything but conventional. 🎖️🔩 His secret sauce to success? A relentless drive and an obsession with being the best. Chris believes in the mindset of greatness and shares why your 20s should be about building expertise. 🌟👷 Check out the full interview to get inspired and learn why the best investment you can make is in your skillset. Because when it comes to success, there's no elevator; it's the stairs that take you to the top. ------------- Martin King here, your Skilled Trade Rescue host. Thanks for checking out the podcast.   Check out my latest FREE Ebooks and other resources to become the next Skilled Trade Millionaire. I did it, and SO CAN YOU!    GOTO: https://skilledtraderescue.com/click  #skilledtraderescue, #skilledtrades,  #apprenticeships, #careeradvice, #careerchange, #career,#internships,#careergoals,#vocationaltraining, #bluecollarjobs, #bringbacktrades, #bluecollar, #tradesman, #tradeswoman

    45 min

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Resouces to start an Amazing Skilled Trade career journey WITH NO DEBT.