Load Bearing Opinions

CJ Curtis
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Careers

Load Bearing Opinions is where construction, the trades, and life all intersect. We swap stories from the field, talk training and careers, and give our take on the stuff that really matters. No fluff—just solid opinions built to last.

Episodes

  1. May 27

    Season 1 Episode 7

    First....We are not Financial Advisors, this is not financial advice. Just some observations, experiences and lessons you may learn from, hopefully earlier than we did. Takeaways Transitioning to a new job in construction often involves a significant increase in pay and working hours.The first big paycheck in construction can lead to irresponsible spending and financial mismanagement. Financial advice: Budget your base income and invest/save any additional income.Investing in 401k: Increase contributions with pay raises and overtime earnings.Be mindful of impulse spending and consider long-term financial goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Launch04:54 The Impact of the First Big Paycheck13:05 Personal Responsibility and Growth19:02 Advice for Young Workers in Construction28:33 Investing and 401k35:00 Financial Mindset and Lifestyle42:20 Teaser for Next Week's Topic

    44 min

  2. May 19

    Season 1 Episode 1

    The podcast features a candid conversation between Ryan and CJ, discussing their passion for construction, origin stories, generational differences in the industry, and the impact of technology on construction practices. The conversation delves into the challenges and benefits of technology adoption, as well as the evolving nature of construction practices in the modern era. The conversation covers the evolution of battery power tools, the shift in workforce demographics and attitudes, the role of robots in the construction industry, the future of the construction industry and workforce development, and an introduction to the Apprentice Survival Guide. Takeaways Generational differences in the construction industryImpact of technology on construction practices Advancements in battery power tools have significantly changed the construction industry.The construction industry is experiencing a shift in workforce demographics and attitudes. Chapters 00:00 Technology's Influence on Construction Practices22:26 Evolution of Battery Power Tools28:04 The Future of Construction Industry and Workforce Development37:22 Introduction to the Apprentice Survival Guide

    39 min
  3. Season 1 Episode 6

    May 18

    Season 1 Episode 6

    The conversation covers topics such as starting over, career choices, success, and dream jobs. It delves into personal experiences, reflections on past decisions, and the evolution of success over time. The conversation covers a range of topics, including dream jobs, teaching, helicopter piloting, and AI takeover. It delves into personal aspirations, societal impact, and speculative scenarios related to technology and human behavior. Takeaways Career success evolves with age and experience.Success is measured by personal fulfillment and the ability to help others.Exploring different career paths and trying new things is important for personal growth. Teaching and coaching can have a significant impact on young people's development.The conversation explores the potential consequences of AI advancement and human interaction with technology. Chapters 00:00 Starting Over and Career Reflections18:56 Personal Reflections and Dream Jobs30:37 Dream Jobs and Impact48:04 AI Takeover and Speculation

    50 min
  4. Season 1 Episode 5

    May 18

    Season 1 Episode 5

    The conversation delves into the debate of effort vs. skill training, highlighting the importance of on-the-job training and the diversity of construction work. It emphasizes the significance of small efforts and the snowball effect of effort training, encouraging adaptability and the attachment of a reason to effort training. The discussion also touches on the importance of classroom mistakes and the joy of working in the construction industry. Takeaways Effort Over SkillImportance of On-the-Job Training Chapters 00:00 The Podcast Intro Struggle05:51 Learning in the Field vs. Formal Training11:22 Fundamentals vs. Practical Learning17:00 The Importance of Small Efforts22:28 The Joy of Working in the Construction Industry28:25 The Snowball Effect of Effort Training

    35 min

  5. May 18

    Season 1 Episode 4

    The podcast episode covers a wide range of topics related to career paths in the construction industry, including the journey from laborer to superintendent, the importance of learning and growth, and the transition from a craft position to a leadership role. The conversation also delves into the challenges and responsibilities of being a boss and the significance of communication and initiative in career advancement. The conversation delves into the career progression within the construction industry, highlighting the challenges, opportunities, and personal experiences of individuals as they advance in their careers. It emphasizes the importance of planning, learning from mistakes, and the impact of travel and work-life balance on career growth. Takeaways Career paths in construction offer diverse opportunities for growth and advancement.Transitioning from a craft position to a leadership role requires learning how to manage people and take on more responsibility. Career progression in construction requires time, effort, and a well-defined plan.Learning from mistakes and adapting to change are crucial for career advancement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Format05:49 The Importance of Communication and Initiative in Career Advancement22:18 The Path from Carpenter to Superintendent30:01 Work-Life Balance and Career Growth40:13 The Importance of Planning and Adaptation46:00 Reflections on Career Growth and Personal Experiences

    50 min

  6. May 18

    Season 1 Episode 3

    The conversation covers the importance of attitude and initiative in the workplace, as well as the value of learning through mistakes. It also emphasizes the significance of showing initiative, being coachable, and maintaining a positive attitude in the construction industry. The conversation delves into the value of rework as a learning opportunity and the importance of taking advantage of training opportunities. It also emphasizes the significance of lifelong learning and personal development, as well as the essential personal attributes for career growth. Takeaways Attitude and InitiativeLearning through Mistakes Rework as a Learning OpportunityTake Advantage of Training Opportunities Chapters 00:00 Attitude and Initiative17:09 Learning through Mistakes23:55 Taking Advantage of Training Opportunities38:07 Personal Attributes for Career Growth

    42 min

  7. May 18

    Season 1 Episode 2

    The podcast episode features a discussion with three construction workers about their experiences and challenges on their first day on the job, hazing and initiation rituals, learning from experience, and adapting to new roles in the construction industry. The conversation covers various aspects of the construction industry, including overcoming challenges, learning from mistakes, entering the industry, work-life balance, and the importance of job site meals and camaraderie. The speakers share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the value of learning, teamwork, and work-life balance in construction. Takeaways First day experiences set the tone for an individual's journey in the construction industry.Hazing and initiation rituals have evolved over time, but still play a role in the industry's culture. Learning from mistakes is a crucial part of growth in the construction industry.The construction industry fosters a sense of camaraderie and family, with job site meals being a significant part of the experience. Chapters 00:00 First Day on the Job20:24 Adapting to New Roles27:57 Learning from Mistakes34:36 Entering the Construction Industry43:37 Work-Life Balance in Construction

    53 min
  • 7 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Load Bearing Opinions is where construction, the trades, and life all intersect. We swap stories from the field, talk training and careers, and give our take on the stuff that really matters. No fluff—just solid opinions built to last.

Information

  • Creator
    CJ Curtis
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 CJ Curtis
  • Show Website
    Load Bearing Opinions