Off The Job: A Tradesman Podcast

Trade Apps Ltd

Welcome to 'Off The Job: A Tradesman Podcast,' the ultimate destination for tradespeople across the UK, hosted by Keiran Yates and Pete Withers (Tradie Tales aka Plumber Tales). This podcast is a toolbox of insights, humour, and real-life stories from the heart of the trades industry.Each episode of 'Off The Job' is crafted with the tradesperson in mind, whether you're a Gas Engineer, Plumber, Electrician, or just passionate about the trade world. Our hosts, Keiran and Pete, bring their unique perspectives and humour to the table, making every discussion engaging and relatable.What sets 'Off The Job' apart is its blend of entertainment and education. We dive into industry trends, offer practical advice, and share stories that resonate with anyone in the trades. Our guests range from seasoned professionals to new faces in the industry, each bringing their unique experiences and insights.'Off The Job' is more than just a podcast; it's a community where tradespeople can come together to learn, laugh, and connect. Whether you're on the job site or relaxing at home, our podcast is the perfect companion to your day.Stay updated with the latest in the trades, get a good laugh, and maybe learn something new along the way. Subscribe to 'Off The Job: A Trade Podcast' on Apple Podcasts and join our community of hardworking, fun-loving tradespeople today!

  1. Escaping the Rat Race | Alfie’s Journey to Van Life

    Episode 1

    Escaping the Rat Race | Alfie’s Journey to Van Life

    Send us Fan Mail In the first episode of Season 10, Pete and Keiran welcome painter‑turned‑traveller Alfie Davis, who’s selling his house, converting a bus, and taking his family on the road for a new life of freedom, travel, and simplicity. Alfie talks openly about:   ✅ 20 years in painting & decorating  ✅ The realities of trade work, site stress & working with multiple trades  ✅ How steam cleaning led him to travel across the UK  ✅ Earning money through TikTok & social media  ✅ Pulling his kids out of mainstream school & homeschooling  ✅ Why today’s education system isn’t working for many families  ✅ His battle with Crohn’s disease — and how changing his diet transformed his health  ✅ The full plan for converting a bus into a family home  ✅ Travel ambitions across the UK and Europe  ✅ Why so many people are rejecting the traditional mortgage/job lifestyle  ✅ Phone addiction, modern stress, and the push to simplify life This episode digs deep into van life, homeschooling, trades culture, health, freedom, and escaping the rat race — all wrapped in classic Off The Job humour and honesty. 🎧 If you're into trades, alternative living, or stories about flipping your life upside down, this one’s a must-listen. 📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    51 min
  2. Massive iGEM UP/1b Change | Off The Job: A Tradesman Podcast Overtime Episode 79

    Episode 1 Bonus

    Massive iGEM UP/1b Change | Off The Job: A Tradesman Podcast Overtime Episode 79

    Send us Fan Mail Pete and Keiran dive into the latest iGEM UP/1B gas regulation updates, including the new rules on permissible pressure drops and purging requirements that every gas engineer needs to understand before 2026. The lads also tackle a listener question on radiator installation pricing, debating what’s reasonable for labour‑only vs. supply‑and‑fit, and sharing their unfiltered thoughts on how plumbers actually quote jobs. Things take a wild turn when they read a shocking story about human remains discovered during plumbing works in Australia, leading to one of the funniest (and darkest) tangents of the series. And of course, Pete unleashes a full‑blown rant about dangerous dog breeds, irresponsible owners, and why huskies apparently “aren’t wolves”… depending on who you ask. Expect: Gas engineering regulation updates explainedReal‑world plumbing pricing talkA bizarre plumbing‑site discoveryComedy gig storiesA heated debate on dangerous dogsClassic Pete vs. Keiran chaos Perfect for plumbers, gas engineers, tradespeople — and anyone who loves unfiltered trade‑banter.  📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    32 min
  3. From Addiction to Entrepreneurship | Steve Potter’s Journey to Building Bear Garden Rooms

    Episode 2

    From Addiction to Entrepreneurship | Steve Potter’s Journey to Building Bear Garden Rooms

    Send us Fan Mail This powerful episode of Off The Job Podcast features Steve Potter, founder of Bear Garden Rooms, who opens up about his extraordinary journey from addiction and homelessness to becoming a successful business owner. Steve shares raw, honest insights into his years battling alcohol and cocaine addiction, describing how it spiralled from weekend use into daily dependency: “I was functioning for a long time, but it was just turning me into somebody that I didn’t really know who I was.” He talks about hitting rock bottom — living in his car, losing his family, and still unable to stop using: “I’m laying there and I’m still doing it… I’m completely and utterly powerless to this substance.” But Steve’s story is ultimately one of transformation. Through Cocaine Anonymous, deep personal work, and rebuilding his life step by step, he found purpose, discipline, and a new identity. Today, he runs Bear Garden Rooms, an elite garden‑room construction company built on craftsmanship, integrity, and relentless self‑belief. He explains how he rebuilt his business from nothing, the mindset shifts that changed everything, and why he now wakes up at 3:33am every day to stay ahead: “I know that everyone else I’m up against, they’re still asleep. I’ve already got two hours on you.” Listeners will hear about: Overcoming addiction and rebuilding a life from scratchThe power of the 12‑step recovery programmeHow trauma shaped Steve’s early life and addictionStarting Bear Garden Rooms with no money and no safety netThe business lessons that helped him scale fastWhy mindset, routine, and self‑belief are everythingThe importance of supportive relationships in recovery and businessThis episode is raw, inspiring, and packed with lessons for anyone facing adversity, building a business, or looking to transform their life. 📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    1h 10m
  4. Why Tiling Isn’t Easy | Dean Gray from DBS Tiling

    Episode 3

    Why Tiling Isn’t Easy | Dean Gray from DBS Tiling

    Send us Fan Mail Dean shares his powerful journey from starting tiling at 15 to battling addiction and rebuilding his life through hard work, discipline, and the trade that gave him everything. Now clean and thriving, he’s using social media to grow his business and help others along the way. We also dive into the realities of the tiling trade, including:  Why tiling is harder than it looks The truth about charging per square metre vs pricing jobs properly Common DIY tiling mistakes The ongoing debate: Who should do tanking—tiler or plumber? How social media is changing the trades industry What separates an average tiler from a great oneIf you’re in the trades, thinking of getting started, or just want honest insight into the industry, this episode is packed with value. 🎯 Topics covered: Tiling, trades business, pricing jobs, addiction recovery, social media marketing for trades, construction industry insights 📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    1h 4m
  5. The First Ever Labourer Song? | Sam Guariglia-Smith (Musical MoobSlap)

    Episode 5

    The First Ever Labourer Song? | Sam Guariglia-Smith (Musical MoobSlap)

    Send us Fan Mail If you’ve ever been sent for a sky hook, a glass hammer, or got screamed at for having your hands in your pockets… this episode is for you!   This week on Off The Job, we’re joined by Sammi AKA Musical Moob slap, ex-labourer, musician, comedian, and one of the funniest guests we’ve ever had on the podcast.   From getting sacked on site, labouring disasters, ADHD struggles, busking, homelessness, gym addiction, tradie banter, and becoming a stay-at-home dad… this episode goes completely off the rails in the best way possible.   PLUS… Sammi performs his now legendary “Labourer Song” at the end of the episode 😂   Topics in this episode: Labourers’ life on UK building sitesTradie banter & site cultureADHD in the tradesMental health & medicationHomelessness & growing upBusking & musicFunny site storiesStay-at-home dad lifeThe Labourer Song  If you’re a plumber, sparky, gas engineer, builder, labourer, apprentice or work in the trades… you’ll probably relate to at least one part of this episode 😂 📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    1h 13m
  6. Gas Engineers Are Getting JAILED For This | Off The Job: A Tradesman Podcast Overtime Episode 81

    Episode 5 Bonus

    Gas Engineers Are Getting JAILED For This | Off The Job: A Tradesman Podcast Overtime Episode 81

    Send us Fan Mail This week’s Off The Job Overtime gets into illegal gas work, AI madness, trade regulations, stolen vans and the random chaos that somehow always happens when Pete & Keiran start talking 😂   The lads react to stories of illegal gas engineers being sent to prison after dangerous boiler installs and fake sign-offs, while also discussing how common illegal gas work still is across the UK trades industry.   They also get into: AI using Pete’s face in fake advertsGas engineer & electrician regulation updatesFord Transit vans being the UK’s most stolen vanHealth & safety on building sitesTrade paperwork getting out of controlBoiler installs, Gas Safe & complianceM25 traffic miseryPineapple on pizza debatesSeafood arguments and complete nonsense 😭  A proper tradie waffle episode with a mix of serious industry talk and absolute rubbish.   If you’re a gas engineer, plumber, electrician, builder, apprentice or work in the trades… this one’s for you.   👇 Let us know:  What’s the worst bit of trade regulation right now? 📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    41 min
  7. How Painting & Decorating Changed Her Life | Sian Francis

    Episode 6

    How Painting & Decorating Changed Her Life | Sian Francis

    Send us Fan Mail What’s it really like being a female decorator in the UK trades industry?   This week on Off The Job, Pete and Keiran are joined by Sian Francis - painter, decorator, business owner, mum, and the first female decorator to sit down on the podcast.   Sian talks about starting out in painting and decorating at a young age, building her business from Facebook posts, taking on apprentices, working on DIY SOS, and why people seriously underestimate decorators.But this episode goes much deeper than the trade.   Sian opens up about domestic abuse, trauma, sobriety, mental health, becoming a mum while running a business, and how she’s rebuilt herself through work, confidence, and taking life one step at a time.   In this episode: Life as a female painter and decoratorStarting a trade business at 20Being a woman on siteWhy painting and decorating gets underestimatedTaking on apprenticesDIY SOS and helping familiesSobriety and mental healthDomestic abuse and rebuilding confidenceAdvice for women wanting to get into the trades  👇 Let us know in the comments:  Do decorators get enough respect in the trades? 📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    1h 4m
  8. 40 Plumbing Apprentices Started… Only 8 Finished | Daisy Turner

    Episode 7

    40 Plumbing Apprentices Started… Only 8 Finished | Daisy Turner

    Send us Fan Mail This week on Off The Job, Pete and Keiran are joined by Daisy Turner - plumber, gas engineer, award-winning apprentice, and one of the most down-to-earth people we’ve had on the podcast.   The conversation gets into the REAL side of getting into the trades, from apprenticeships and college struggles, to plumbing competitions, heat pumps, site life, influencer culture, and why so many people are getting into the industry for the wrong reasons.   Daisy talks honestly about: Starting out in plumbingWhy schools push university over tradesThe reality of plumbing apprenticeshipsWhy apprentices are dropping outLearning on site vs collegePlumbing competitions & awardsHeat pumps & modern heating systemsSite work, installs & breakdownsInfluencer culture in the tradesWhy she genuinely loves plumbing  Out of 40 apprentices that started her course… only 8 actually finished.   This episode is a proper honest conversation about the future of the trades, learning on the tools, and why enjoying the job still matters more than chasing social media fame.   If you’re a plumber, gas engineer, heating engineer, electrician, apprentice or thinking about getting into the trades… this episode is definitely worth watching.   👇 Let us know in the comments:  What’s the biggest issue facing apprentices right now? 📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    46 min
  9. Episode 7 Bonus

    Where Has All The Trade Work Gone?! | Off The Job: A Tradesman Podcast Overtime Episode 82

    Send us Fan Mail This week’s Off The Job Overtime starts with Pete asking the question loads of tradespeople are thinking right now…   Has work gone quiet?   The lads get into how slow things have felt recently for some engineers, whether the trades industry is changing, and why more people seem worried about where the next job is coming from.   The episode also goes completely off the rails as usual 😂 Pete and Keiran get into: Quiet periods in the tradesHeat pumps vs gas boilersSelf-employed stressPlumbing & heating industry changesMagaluf rugby tour chaosMissing flights abroadTradie stereotypesApprenticeships & collegesWhich trade would survive prison 😭Trade banter & absolute nonsense  A proper mix of real trade talk and complete chaos. If you’re a plumber, gas engineer, electrician, builder, apprentice or self-employed in the trades… this one will probably feel very relatable.   👇 Let us know in the comments:  Has work gone quiet where you are? 📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    36 min
  10. From Building to Payment Protection | Johan Dyer from BuildBoss

    Episode 8

    From Building to Payment Protection | Johan Dyer from BuildBoss

    Send us Fan Mail This week on Off The Job, Pete and Keiran sit down with Johan Dyer, carpenter, business owner, and founder of BuildBoss.   Johan shares the story behind growing up on building sites, becoming self-employed, dealing with difficult customers, and why one unpaid job can put a trades business at risk.   The conversation takes a deeper turn as Johan opens up about losing his dad in a tragic accident, being told not to come back to work shortly afterwards, and how he rebuilt his life and business during one of the toughest periods he's ever faced.   In this episode: The reality of being self-employed in the tradesLosing a parent unexpectedlyMental health and therapy for tradesmenDifficult customers and payment disputesWhy builders struggle to get paidThe future of payment protection in constructionStarting and growing a business from scratchWhat success actually looks like as a tradesman  Whether you're a builder, carpenter, plumber, gas engineer, electrician or running your own trade business, this episode is packed with honest conversations about life, business, mental health and the challenges that come with working for yourself.   👇 Let us know in the comments: What's the biggest lesson the trades have taught you?   BuildBoss are offering Off The Job listeners their first job completely free. Use code OFFTHEJOB100 for 100% off your first project (for both the customer and tradesperson). Offer valid until 30th June. 📣 Sponsored by Flexigas – the flexible gas pipe specialists: https://flexigas.com/ 💥 Powered by Ridgeline – seamless copper tubes built for the trade: https://ridgelinetubes.com/ 🎁 EXCLUSIVE PODCAST OFFER Get 30% OFF your Yearly Subscription to Gas Certificate App! Use code: POD30 at checkout 📲 Download the Gas Certificate App now https://onelink.to/hbv69u ⚠️ Warning: Contains adult humour and strong language. Tradesmen banter ahead. 🔗 Follow us on Socials 📱 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@offthejobpodcastuk 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/offthejobpodcastuk

    1h 6m

About

Welcome to 'Off The Job: A Tradesman Podcast,' the ultimate destination for tradespeople across the UK, hosted by Keiran Yates and Pete Withers (Tradie Tales aka Plumber Tales). This podcast is a toolbox of insights, humour, and real-life stories from the heart of the trades industry.Each episode of 'Off The Job' is crafted with the tradesperson in mind, whether you're a Gas Engineer, Plumber, Electrician, or just passionate about the trade world. Our hosts, Keiran and Pete, bring their unique perspectives and humour to the table, making every discussion engaging and relatable.What sets 'Off The Job' apart is its blend of entertainment and education. We dive into industry trends, offer practical advice, and share stories that resonate with anyone in the trades. Our guests range from seasoned professionals to new faces in the industry, each bringing their unique experiences and insights.'Off The Job' is more than just a podcast; it's a community where tradespeople can come together to learn, laugh, and connect. Whether you're on the job site or relaxing at home, our podcast is the perfect companion to your day.Stay updated with the latest in the trades, get a good laugh, and maybe learn something new along the way. Subscribe to 'Off The Job: A Trade Podcast' on Apple Podcasts and join our community of hardworking, fun-loving tradespeople today!

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