
Make Trades Great Again
Whether you're a seasoned professional, a newcomer, or simply interested in the trades, the "Make Trades Great Again" podcast offers something for everyone. Our goal is to promote the value of skilled trades, provide essential resources, and build a strong community of passionate individuals.Industry Insights - Educational Content - Community Stories - Technology in TradesTune in now and be part of the movement to make trades great again!
Latest episodes

Jan 18, 2024 • 34min
5 Things Apprentices Should Do Every Day
If you're an apprentice this one's for you! If you're not an apprentice but know someone coming up in the trades, please share this with them asap! In this episode Eric & Andy go thru a list of five things/habits/behaviors today's apprentice needs to do or think about daily. 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

Jan 16, 2024 • 17min
Reviewing 2023 w/ Andy
It's that time of year to look forward into the new year. This is also worth reflecting on the past year to gauge successes. This isn't a New Year Resolution episode! 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

Jan 11, 2024 • 33min
The Buzzfeed Quiz w/ Chad
Chad joins the guys to take a buzzfeed quiz to see what career we’re supposed to have. The results are as ridiculous as you probably expect. Thanks to our friend Chad Killinger for joining us. 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

Jan 9, 2024 • 35min
Breaking Down the Estimating Process
The hosts discuss their memorable project in Montana, approaching a large plumbing project and bidding strategies, exploring options for the heating system, planning a heating system installation, and efficient project completion with reliable techniques. They also discuss a recent video release, sponsors, and upcoming HR Expo with predictions about new industry products.

Jan 4, 2024 • 29min
Job Seekers: Do This!
Some old school tactics still work when looking for employment no matter how many job services are out there. The internet is awesome but following up on a job application can get you ahead of the competition. Also did you know there is a whole online service just for blue collar jobs? Check this out and more in this episode where the guys talk about how they got hired into the trades and what worked all those years ago, how it’s still working today. 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

Jan 2, 2024 • 25min
New in town & starting a business?
More listener mail from Australia. The guys talk about some things they’d consider in preparation of starting a new business. 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

Dec 21, 2023 • 19min
To Replace or Not to Replace
The podcast discusses the pros and cons of replacing vs. repairing equipment in the field of technology. It explores the issue in the HVAC industry, shares personal experiences, and debates the cost and longevity of appliances. The challenges of replacing components in modern furnaces, including the complexity of diagnosing and repairing integrated parts, are also discussed.

Dec 19, 2023 • 29min
Never Work With Family. Buying the business, not the baggage
Longtime listener Dillon writes in with a followup to an episode from almost two years ago when he was looking for advice on buying the business he was working for. Dillon is at the point in owning the business where he needs to expand. He also had to fire the son of the former owner of the business. Is not hiring and expanding as much of a risk as hiring? Maybe! 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

Dec 14, 2023 • 34min
Take this job and shove it!
Andy tells us about a problem job they’ve been dealing with for a few years. Ever have one of those jobs you wish you never took on? How about a piece of equipment or materials you regret installing? 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

Dec 12, 2023 • 15min
What’s an ideal length of apprenticeship?
How long is long enough for proper training in the skilled trades? It’s no secret we are not attracting more young adults than needed into the trades, could a shorter training period move the needle on interest? What are your thoughts? We’d love to hear from you! 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