The Trades Podcast

Jeff Mudd, Danny Torres
  • 5.0 (8)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

A Pod cast about the Business of Home Improvement and Promoting the Trades to Young Adults.

  1. Ep 193 Chris Koch - BDRco.com

    3D AGO

    Ep 193 Chris Koch - BDRco.com

    In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Chris Koch, a Head Coach and Trainer at Business Development Resources, to discuss how trades businesses can build stronger teams and more profitable operations. Chris draws from decades of experience in HVAC and plumbing service companies, where he worked across service, installation, sales, and management roles before becoming a coach and trainer for contractors across North America. The conversation focuses on leadership development, employee engagement, and the systems that allow trades companies to scale without losing culture or quality. Chris explains why investing in training, transparency, and team development is critical to reducing turnover and building a resilient company. Resources and Mentions Business Development Resourceshttps://www.bdrco.com BDR Coaching and Training Programshttps://www.bdrco.com/trainers The Trades Podcasthttps://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn Why leadership development is critical in trades companies How to improve employee engagement and retention The systems successful contractors use to scale their business Why investing in your team leads to long-term growth How coaching and mentorship accelerate business performance   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Trades Podcast 00:56 Chris Koch's Background and Role at BDR 04:40 The Value of Trades Education 07:42 Marketing the Trades to Future Employees 09:10 The Importance of Soft Skills in Business 11:39 Hiring Trends and Speed to Hire 13:59 Employee Retention and Engagement 19:06 The Art of Delegation 27:14 Time Management and Focus 36:11 Long-Term Business Planning and Growth About The Trades PodcastWebsitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.   Support the Trades MovementIf this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

    42 min
  2. Ep 192 Zachary Craig Hanson - The Trade Gap Book

    MAR 5

    Ep 192 Zachary Craig Hanson - The Trade Gap Book

    In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts discuss the importance of trades and skills in today's economy with guest Zachary Greg Hansen, author of 'The Trade Gap.' Zach shares his personal journey from a traditional education path to discovering the value of trades, the flaws in the education system, and the need for a shift in perspective towards vocational training. The conversation covers the challenges faced by individuals in the trades, the importance of adaptability in the workforce, and recommendations for bridging the trades gap. Zach emphasizes the need for parents and educators to support young people in exploring trades as viable career options. Zachary shares his personal journey from the world of corporate technology and artificial intelligence to rediscovering the life-changing value of hands-on skills. After experiencing the uncertainty of white-collar employment, he realized that practical trades skills provide something modern careers often cannot, resilience, independence, and real-world problem solving. Together, Jeff, Danny, and Zach dive into the growing “trade gap” in America, why fewer people are entering skilled trades, and how rediscovering craftsmanship could be the key to building stronger communities and more secure careers. Zach also explains why learning a trade is not just a backup plan, it may be one of the most valuable investments anyone can make in their future. If you believe the next generation should know how to build more than just digital careers, this episode will inspire you to rethink opportunity, education, and the true value of working with your hands. Share this conversation with someone who believes the future is built by people who know how to create. Learn more about the book 👉 https://www.amazon.com/stores/Zachary-Craig-Hanson/author/B0BGC6YQ3L Takeaways Zach Hansen emphasizes the importance of trades skills in today's economy. The education system often overlooks practical skills in favor of academic achievements. Zach's personal journey highlights the value of self-reliance and learning trades. The SATs measure cognitive ability but do not reflect practical skills. There is a growing need for trades education and vocational training. Parents play a crucial role in guiding their children towards trades careers. The trades industry faces challenges such as healthcare access and capital for small businesses. Zach advocates for a broader definition of trades, including various skills and crafts. The importance of having a backup plan and being adaptable in one's career. Zach's book aims to inspire a shift in perspective towards trades and vocational education.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Exciting News 01:04 Meet Zachary Greg Hansen 02:14 Zach's Life in Idaho 04:30 The Importance of Trades Skills 05:54 The Flaws in the Education System 11:45 Zach's Journey and Career Path 17:13 Facing Challenges and Rock Bottom Moments 19:13 The Shift in Perspective on Education 22:10 The Future of Trades and Skills 28:58 Employer Adaptation to the Trades Gap 34:55 Changing Perceptions of Trades 39:52 Recommendations to Bridge the Trades Gap 42:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   About The Trades PodcastWebsitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.   Support the Trades MovementIf this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

    47 min
  3. Ep 191 Shonna Jordan - JordanJordan.com

    FEB 26

    Ep 191 Shonna Jordan - JordanJordan.com

    In this uplifting episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Shonna Jordan, founder and CEO of JordanJordan.com Marketing, for a conversation that goes beyond logos and ads and focuses on why your marketing matters. Shonna explains how understanding brand purpose, customer psychology, and tailored messaging can help trades businesses break through noise and build long-term success. You’ll hear Shonna discuss: The fundamentals of effective marketing for service businesses How to craft a brand that reflects your values and attracts the right clients Why storytelling is essential, even for technical trades Common marketing pitfalls and how to avoid them How small businesses can compete with bigger competitors using strategy over budget This episode gives listeners the tools to rethink their approach and take confident action. Resources and Mentions JordanJordan Marketinghttps://jordanjordan.com The Trades Podcasthttps://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn How to define your brand beyond just a logo Why marketing strategy should inform every part of your business How to connect with your audience through meaningful messaging The difference between marketing that sells and marketing that sticks Steps trades professionals can take today to improve their outreach About The Trades PodcastWebsitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.   Support the Trades MovementIf this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

    50 min
  4. Ep 190 Talena Handley - GirlieGarage.com

    FEB 19

    Ep 190 Talena Handley - GirlieGarage.com

    What does it look like when passion, community, and craftsmanship come together to build more than a business? In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres sit down with Talena Handley, CEO of Girly Garage, to explore how a single idea can grow into a vibrant community built around cars, confidence, and connection. In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Talena Handley, CEO of Girly Garage, a community-first company dedicated to making automotive education accessible and empowering. Talena discusses how Girly Garage was built around the idea that anyone can learn to work on vehicles confidently when given the right instruction, environment, and support. The conversation dives into the importance of inclusive training, breaking down barriers in male-dominated industries, and using community engagement as a foundation for growth. Talena also shares insights on leadership, building events that inspire connection, and nurturing a loyal audience that feels ownership in the brand’s mission. Resources & MentionsGirly Garage Website: https://www.girliegarage.com/ About Girly Garage: https://www.girliegarage.com/about The Trades Podcast: https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will LearnHow inclusive education strengthens confidence and skillsWhy community matters in trade and automotive fieldsHow Girly Garage expanded from local meetups to a thriving brandThe role of leadership in fostering inclusivity and belongingPractical insights for building community-driven business growth  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Trades Podcast 01:00 Meet Talayna Handley: Founder of Girly Garage 03:31 The Birth of Girly Garage 08:17 Empowering Through Education 11:31 The Importance of Automotive Knowledge 12:54 Expanding Girly Garage's Reach 15:12 The Gender Gap in Automotive Mechanics 18:50 Safety and Education in Automotive Training 20:36 The Future of Trades and Education 24:28 Challenges Facing Small Businesses 27:21 The Role of Girly Garage in Automotive Education 30:56 Career Paths in Automotive Industry 35:08 Staying Grounded in the Trades 37:30 The Vision for Girly Garage's Future   About The Trades PodcastWebsitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.   Support the Trades MovementIf this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

    40 min
  5. Ep 189 Rafael Torres - LeftysPlumbingService.com

    FEB 11

    Ep 189 Rafael Torres - LeftysPlumbingService.com

    In this conversation, Jeff and Danny talk with Rafael Torres about the journey of growing Lefty’s Plumbing Services and the values that guide the company’s work. Rafael discusses how maintaining professionalism, clear communication, and high standards has helped the company earn repeat customers and strong referrals.   The discussion also covers training technicians, developing a reliable team, and the importance of staying organized and responsive in a fast-moving service environment. Rafael shares practical insights into running a plumbing company, managing customer expectations, and maintaining quality as the business grows.  Resources and MentionsLefty’s Plumbing Services https://leftysplumbingservice.com/ The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will LearnHow to build a strong reputation in plumbing and home servicesWhy communication and professionalism drive repeat businessThe importance of technician training and team cultureHow leadership impacts service quality and customer trustPractical insights into operating a growing plumbing company About The Trades PodcastWebsitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.   Support the Trades MovementIf this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

    44 min
  6. Ep 188 Next Generation of Tradespeople - TheTradesPodcast.com

    FEB 8

    Ep 188 Next Generation of Tradespeople - TheTradesPodcast.com

    In this episode of the Trades Podcast, Danny and Jeff discuss the challenges and opportunities in attracting young adults to the trades. They explore the importance of paid on-the-job training, creating certificate programs, and the role of technology in training. The conversation also highlights the significance of mentorship, company culture, and engaging with schools to recruit the next generation of tradespeople. With insights from industry experts, the episode provides actionable strategies for business owners to retain employees and build a strong workforce in the trades. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, career progression, workplace culture, and clear communication. Jeff and Danny also share insights on training programs, leadership development, and why creating a sense of purpose in the workplace can dramatically improve retention. This episode is a practical and motivational discussion for contractors, shop owners, and leaders who want to build stronger teams and a stronger industry. Resources and MentionsThe Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will LearnWhy recruiting in the trades requires a new approachWhat younger workers value in a workplaceHow mentorship and training improve retentionThe role of culture in building long-term teamsPractical ways to attract motivated apprentices and techniciansWhy investing in people strengthens your business    Chapters   00:00 Introduction to the Trades Podcast 01:05 Attracting Young Adults to Trade Schools 03:55 Competing with Trade Schools for Talent 04:04 The Importance of Paid On-the-Job Training 07:34 Creating a Certificate Program for Employees 09:34 Utilizing Technology in Training 12:13 Bringing in Industry Experts for Training 15:47 Documenting Employee Training and Progress 20:18 Creating a Clear Career Pathway 22:45 The Role of Company Growth in Employee Retention 26:13 Formalizing Apprenticeship Models 30:15 Recruiting Young Adults into the Trades 41:09 Building a Strong Company Culture   About The Trades PodcastWebsitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.   Support the Trades MovementIf this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

    46 min
  7. Ep 187 Tommy Holstein- SolidGroundSTL.com

    JAN 29

    Ep 187 Tommy Holstein- SolidGroundSTL.com

    In this episode, Jeff and Danny talk with Tommy Holstein, CEO of Solid Ground STL, about the challenges and rewards of leading a construction and foundation repair company. Tommy explains why attention to detail, honesty with customers, and strong internal culture are essential in an industry where trust and safety matter most. The conversation explores leadership under pressure, growing a skilled team, and maintaining high standards as a business scales. Tommy also discusses the importance of educating homeowners, standing behind your work, and making decisions that protect both people and property. Resources and MentionsSolid Ground STL https://www.solidgroundstl.com The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will LearnHow to build trust in high-stakes construction servicesWhy quality foundations start with strong leadershipThe role of education and transparency with customersHow to lead teams in physically demanding, technical workWhat it takes to grow a trade business responsiblyWhy long-term reputation matters more than short-term wins About The Trades PodcastWebsitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.   Support the Trades MovementIf this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

    59 min
  8. Ep 186 Kathy Denton - BergerHardwareInc.com

    JAN 14

    Ep 186 Kathy Denton - BergerHardwareInc.com

    In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Jeff and Danny welcome Kathy Denton from Berger Hardware, who shares her extensive experience in the door hardware industry. Kathy discusses her journey from being a client to working at Berger Hardware for over 32 years. She highlights the transition to their new location in Encinitas, the unique showroom experience, and the importance of building relationships with clients and contractors. Kathy also explains how they guide homeowners and contractors through the selection process, the impact of technology on hardware, and the value of their job walk services. The conversation emphasizes the commitment to customer service and the personal touch that sets Berger Hardware apart from larger retailers. The conversation explores how Berger Hardware balances tradition with innovation, stays responsive to contractor needs, and remains a trusted resource for builders, remodelers, and skilled trades professionals. Kathy also shares lessons on customer service, communication, and consistency that apply across every trade business. Resources and MentionsBerger Hardware Inc. https://www.bergerhardwareinc.com VISIT US: 579 Westlake St., Encinitas , CA 92024 Get Directions  SERVING AREA: Del Mar, CA 92014, La Mesa, CA, La Jolla, CA, San Diego, CA, Rancho Santa Fe, CA, and surrounding areas CONTACT US: (619) 268-1885 BERGER HARDWARE INC. is a Proud Sponsor of The Trades Podcast!  What You Will Learn Why supplier relationships matter in the tradesHow product knowledge supports jobsite successThe role of customer service in construction supplyHow trust is built through consistency and reliabilityWhy hardware selection impacts project qualityHow Berger Hardware supports contractors every dayChapters 00:00 Introduction to Berger Hardware and Kathy Denton 02:51 Kathy's Journey with Berger Hardware 05:34 Transitioning to the Encinitas Location 08:43 The New Showroom Experience 11:31 Building Relationships with Clients and Contractors 14:21 Memorable Moments at Berger Hardware 17:24 The Importance of Customer Service 20:07 Navigating Client Needs and Choices 23:00 Unique Design Choices in Hardware 25:54 Problem Solving for Clients 28:44 Crafting Unique Solutions for Home Design 36:27 Embracing Technology in Home Security 42:42 Understanding Security Features and Options 47:37 The Importance of Job Walks in Remodeling 54:21 Custom Solutions vs. Off-the-Shelf Products   About The Trades PodcastWebsitehttps://www.thetradespodcast.com Hosted byJeff Mudd and Danny Torres The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.   Support the Trades MovementIf this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

    1h 1m
See All (193)

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

A Pod cast about the Business of Home Improvement and Promoting the Trades to Young Adults.

Information

  • Creator
    Jeff Mudd, Danny Torres
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    193
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2021
  • Show Website
    The Trades Podcast

You Might Also Like