A Scrap Life

Recycled Media
  • 5.0 (9)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Follow Brett Ekart as he finds people throughout the country living "A Scrap Life"

  1. The Trade - Episode #10 with Nick, Brett and Chad | December 4th, 2025

    12/04/2025

    The Trade - Episode #10 with Nick, Brett and Chad | December 4th, 2025

    On this episode of The Trade - A Scrap Life, the guys analyze why iron prices fluctuate, covering the current slow scrap flow and steel mill inventory tactics, while debating a bullish outlook for 2026 fueled by infrastructure projects and anticipated demand for ferrous and non-ferrous metals like copper and aluminum. They also discuss how winter weather slows scrap flow and why steel mills intentionally manage inventory to boost cash conversion, leading to discussions on capacity utilization and import trends. Produced by Recycled Media.

    40 min

  2. 10/15/2025

    A Scrap Life: Episode 131 | Gaby Olson | Redwood Materials

    On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Gaby Olson of Redwood Materials, focusing on the scrap metal industry. The conversation details Gabby's extensive career path, from her start in cosmetics and banking to her experiences buying and trading scrap, and eventually pivoting to the innovative field of EV and lithium-ion battery recycling. Produced by Recycled Media.

    1h 18m

  3. 10/06/2025

    A Scrap Life: Episode 130 | Ian Laffey | Zato North America

    On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Ian Laffey of Zato North America to discuss the strategic necessity of specialized equipment like dual shaft shredders for bridging processing gaps, navigating market volatility, and finding a profitable niche for growth. Produced by Recycled Media.

    41 min

  4. 10/01/2025

    Scrap Expo '25: Maximize Growth, Control Costs and Capitalize on Opportunities | Sep. 17, 2025

    The fourth annual Scrap Expo in Louisville, KY concluded on September 17th, 2025. "Maximize Growth, Control Costs and Capitalize on Opportunities", was a session on September 17th that featured Brett Ekart, CEO of United Metals Recycling, as moderator, along with panelists Brian Ferguson, CFO of United Metals, Blake Dorsett, president of ShearWorx, and Aldo Jordan, president of The Metals Agency. They discussed strategies for maximizing growth and controlling costs in the metal recycling sector, emphasized the strategic use of third-party services for operational flexibility, specialized processing, and expanded market access. Key strategies also highlighted the importance of leveraging technology (like AI) for back-end efficiency, maintaining tight communication between operational and financial teams, and building a strong balance sheet to enable capitalizing on growth opportunities during market downturns. Produced by Recycled Media.

    58 min
  5. The Trade - Episode #9 with Brett and Chad | September 4th, 2025

    09/04/2025

    The Trade - Episode #9 with Brett and Chad | September 4th, 2025

    On this episode of The Trade - A Scrap Life, Brett and Chad analyze the "odd" and "sideways" ferrous scrap market in September, noting mill cancellation notices and fluctuating prices, while also discussing macroeconomic factors like interest rates. The guys offer strategic advice for small scrap yard owners, emphasizing strong cash flow management, timely investments, and pursuing growth opportunities during challenging markets. Produced by Recycled Media.

    34 min

  6. 09/03/2025

    A Scrap Life: Episode 126 | Chris & Austin Dethmers | Louisburg Recycling

    On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Chris Dethmers and his son Austin from Louisburg Recycling. They discuss running their family-owned scrap metal business, highlighting the importance of customer service, effective cash flow management, and strategic growth within the industry, as well as the value of mentorship and a strong work ethic. Produced by Recycled Media.

    1h 14m

  7. 08/26/2025

    A Scrap Life: Episode 125 | Jim Keefe | Recycling Today | SCRAP EXPO 2025

    On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Jim Keefe from Recycling Today to discuss Scrap Expo 2025. This year marks the fourth annual Scrap Expo, which is scheduled for September 16 and 17 in Louisville, Kentucky. Produced by Recycled Media.

    34 min

  8. 08/20/2025

    A Scrap Life: Episode 124 | Levi Morss | Upcycle

    On this episode of A Scrap Life, Brett is joined by Levi Morse, a professional with a strong background in the scrap metal industry, including the unique experience of shredding a Lamborghini for  ⁨@MrBeast⁩ . They discuss his journey in a family scrap business, its sale, and his current deliberate approach to building his own scrapyard, highlighting lessons learned about work-life balance and family dynamics in the industry. Produced by Recycled Media.

    1 hr
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5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Follow Brett Ekart as he finds people throughout the country living "A Scrap Life"

Information

  • Creator
    Recycled Media
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    142
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Recycled Media
  • Show Website
    A Scrap Life

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