Make Trades Great Again

Australian Luke Cazaly is the owner of Flametech Heating & Cooling. Luke is a longtime friend of the pod, it was fun catching up with him and talking business and family. Thanks Luke!TakeawaysLuke has been in the heating and cooling industry for 16 years.Using software like Service Mate has streamlined his operations.Market research helped him set competitive pricing.He leaves gaps in his schedule for emergencies and paperwork.Building a reputation with manufacturers is key to success.Luke is considering hiring qualified personnel for growth.Send us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Discover the complexities of managing plumbing projects as experts share insights on navigating permits and customer expectations. Hear fascinating anecdotes about the challenges of renovating older buildings and the necessity of clear communication. The pros and cons of time-and-material pricing versus bidding are explored, highlighting the need for effective planning. Learn how community feedback can enrich project management and why flexibility is crucial for success in the ever-evolving construction landscape.

The conversation delves into the intricacies of HVAC projects and customer communication. Insights on pricing strategies reveal the importance of aligning expectations with actual costs. The hosts emphasize the value of quality components for long-term customer satisfaction. They also explore financing options that make heating services more accessible, highlighting the role of empathy in discussions. Building lasting relationships with customers and transparent communication about pricing contribute to successful outcomes in the industry.

This week's discussion dives into the dynamics of business partnerships, emphasizing the need for open communication and formal agreements. The hosts share creative marketing strategies, especially for the plumbing industry, and the importance of customer reviews during economic downturns. They highlight how community involvement can boost brand visibility and personal fulfillment. Innovative ideas like QR codes and professional vehicle branding are explored as ways to enhance customer engagement. Listener participation is encouraged for future topics!

The hosts share candid experiences about the challenges of last-minute job changes in plumbing and heating. They discuss handling unexpected problems and the importance of communication when under pressure. A spotlight on exciting water heater rebates reveals financial incentives for homeowners looking to upgrade. The episode also humorously navigates the quirks of installation difficulties, emphasizing teamwork and adaptability in the field. Listeners get a taste of the daily realities and surprises that professionals face on the job.

Get ready for a lively chat about plumbing favorites! The hosts humorously debate the best order for dope and tape while sharing insights into tankless water heaters, including impressive sales stats. They spotlight innovative standoff brackets from the AHR Expo, and discuss installation challenges with practical techniques. There’s a fun look at tankless install valve kits that enhance efficiency. With a blend of playful anecdotes and serious tips, they emphasize the importance of quality tools and leak-free connections in plumbing.

Ordering plumbing supplies online has become a quirky hassle in 2025, with one supplier demanding four forms of verification! The hosts share hilarious anecdotes about the ups and downs of managing multiple suppliers, showcasing the balance between quality and price. They dive into the reliability of preferred vendors like Pex Universe while poking fun at the challenges of heavy deliveries. Frustrations over inefficient packaging and Amazon's inconsistent shipping add to the chaos, as they call for better supplier practices and audience engagement.

Would you hire someone with zero trade work experience? What if they're in their 30's? How old is too old to start in the trades? Send us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Are you the low bid? Are you being beat by the low bidder but offering a more complete job, is it apple to apples? This week the guys chat about a recent encounter Eric had on the job with another local plumber. Send us a textSend us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels!Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumbNewsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email

Amid rising prices and financial strain, the podcast delves into the surge of Buy Now, Pay Later options. Speakers share personal insights on how financing has reshaped client interactions. They explore evolving attitudes toward spending and the flexibility these options bring, especially for younger shoppers. The conversation also highlights how businesses can adapt to meet changing consumer needs, particularly in the home repair sector, making it easier for customers to manage unexpected expenses.