Load Bearing Opinions

CJ Curtis
  • 5.0 (3)
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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.

  1. Jul 12

    Season 1 Episode 13

    The conversation emphasizes the importance of continuous learning in the trades and explores alternative education methods available to tradespeople. It delves into the significance of ongoing education and the various ways in which individuals can continue to learn and grow within their trade. Additionally, it highlights the value of alternative education methods such as online resources, social media platforms, and podcasts. The conversation covers the value of continuous learning, the impact of boredom and complacency on skill development, and the importance of consistency in learning. It also includes an announcement of the hundred subscriber giveaway and a discussion on side work and skill development. Takeaways Continuous learning in the trades is essentialAlternative education methods are valuable Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growthConsistency in learning and skill development is key Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Continuous Learning03:20 Alternative Education Methods25:27 The Value of Podcasts and Learning26:09 Recommendations for Leadership and Business Books28:11 The Impact of Boredom and Complacency on Learning34:14 The Importance of Consistency in Learning36:08 The Consequences of Stagnation and the Need for Continuous Learning39:52 Announcement of the Hundred Subscriber Giveaway42:32 Discussion on Side Work and Skill Development

  2. Jul 8

    Season 1 Episode 12

    The podcast episode begins with an introduction to the Low Bearing Opinions Podcast, setting the tone for a candid and unscripted conversation. The hosts discuss the challenges of driving in rainy weather, leading to a conversation about the role of a mentor in the trades. They explore the qualities of a good mentor, the responsibility of passing down knowledge, and the role of a bad mentor, emphasizing the importance of consistency, leading by example, and creating a safe space for questions. The conversation delves into the differences in challenges faced by different generations and the importance of learning from failure. It also explores the complexities of mentoring and the decision to give up on someone, as well as the concept of continuous learning in the trades industry. Takeaways Consistency in mentorshipLeading by exampleCreating a safe space for questions Different challenges for each generationLearning from failure Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast10:46 Responsibility of Passing Down Knowledge20:45 The Role of a Bad Mentor27:03 Generational Challenges32:56 Mentorship and Giving Up41:04 Never Stop Learning

  3. Jun 29

    Season 1 Episode 11

    The podcast episode begins with an introduction and discussion of the podcast format, followed by engaging with listeners and comments. The main theme of the episode revolves around the concept of tolerances in construction and personal tolerances, exploring industry standard tolerances and the impact of personal attitudes towards tolerances in construction work. The conversation delves into the science of steps and the evolution of precision in construction. It highlights the impact of precision in construction, the importance of following specifications, and the challenges with concrete thickness and flatness. The significance of control networks in surveying, the role of complacency in precision, and the understanding of measurement error and tolerance are also discussed. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the importance of good mentorship in the trades and the challenge of precision in extreme temperatures. Takeaways Personal tolerancesIndustry standard tolerances Precision in construction is crucialThe importance of being a good mentor in the trades Chapters 00:00 Tolerances in Construction and Personal Tolerances39:51 The Challenge of Precision in Extreme Temperatures

  4. Jun 23

    Season 1 Episode 10

    The podcast episode covers a range of topics, from offbeat banter to serious debates. It delves into the challenges of commuting, the influence of merchandise, and the fashion choices of the hosts. The episode also features a discussion on driving nightmares, the Gridiron Men's Conference, and a series of lighthearted debates on Coke vs. Pepsi, Ford vs. Chevy, Dogs vs. Cats, and iPhone vs. Android. The conversation covers a range of topics including phone usage, texting vs. talking, iPhone vs. Android, pencil vs. marker, paper plans vs. iPads, and the debate between Milwaukee and DeWalt tools. The hosts share personal experiences and preferences, providing insights into their choices and the reasons behind them. The conversation covered a wide range of topics, from unusual diets and beard preferences to humorous family stories and pop culture debates. It also delved into the differences between tolerances in construction and the 'good enough' mentality. Takeaways The importance of maintaining a positive mindset during the commute.The impact of merchandise and fashion choices on personal style and expression. The preference for texting over talking on the phoneThe impact of phone choices on communication and user experience Unusual diets and food preferencesHumorous family stories and debates Chapters 00:00 Off the Rails07:01 The Gridiron Men's Conference12:01 Debate: Coke vs. Pepsi19:56 Debate: Dogs vs. Cats27:01 Debate: iPhone vs. Android34:13 Pencil vs. Marker: The Construction Site Conundrum48:28 Milwaukee vs. DeWalt: The Tool Showdown54:49 Chicken Wings and Diets01:00:43 Squirrels and World Cup01:07:29 Duck Sized Horses vs. Horse Sized Duck01:17:08 Tolerances in Construction and Good Enough Mentality

  5. Jun 15

    Season 1 Episode 9

    The podcast conversation covers various themes related to burnout, work-life balance, and career progression in the trades. It delves into the challenges of long hours, being away from home, and the impact on personal life. The speakers also provide advice for young workers and emphasize the importance of gaining experience through travel and career advancement. The conversation covers the impact of lifestyle on work, work-life balance, coping strategies, passion for the work, dealing with difficult colleagues, wellness and burnout prevention, podcast updates, and audience engagement. The hosts share personal experiences and provide insights into managing the challenges of the construction industry, while also encouraging audience participation and feedback for future episodes. Takeaways Impact of burnout in the tradesChallenges of irregular work hoursBalancing work-life and personal lifeAdvantages of early travel and career advancement Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for coping with the demands of the construction industry.Engaging in hobbies, physical activity, and humor can help prevent burnout and improve mental well-being. Chapters 00:00 Podcast Introduction and Video Challenges08:16 Long Hours and Work-Life Balance16:08 Being Away from Home22:01 Career Advancement and Travel27:33 Passion for the Work and Career Choices34:18 Dealing with Difficult Colleagues41:57 Podcast Updates and Audience Engagement

  6. Season 1, Episode 8 Trailer

    This Week's Episode

    Here we talk about what this upcoming weeks episode is about. Maybe a little bit of word stumbling.

  7. Jun 8

    Season 1 Episode 8

    The podcast episode discusses the Skills USA National Leadership Conference, addressing the skills gap in construction, and the ego problem in the industry. It highlights the impressive creativity and skills of students, the value of industry exposure, and the challenges associated with ego in construction. The episode emphasizes the importance of confidence, communication, and overcoming ego-related challenges. The conversation covers various themes related to leadership, professionalism, and the misconceptions of construction workers. It also delves into the importance of continuous learning, problem-solving, and the impact of burnout in the trades. The hosts emphasize the significance of ego management, adaptability, and finding joy in one's work. Takeaways Impressive creativity and skills of studentsThe importance of confidence and communication in overcoming ego-related challenges Ego management is crucial for effective leadershipContinuous learning and adaptability are essential in the trades Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Skills USA National Leadership Conference08:55 The Ego Problem in Construction22:02 The Negative Impact of Ego in Business28:11 Professionalism in the Trades35:20 The Misconception of Construction Workers41:00 Painting the Picture for Your Team47:07 Podcast Sign-Off

  8. 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

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 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
    2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 CJ Curtis
  • Show Website
    Load Bearing Opinions