Make Trades Great Again

Ever wondered about the complex process of hiring plumbers and the hurdles that businesses face along the way? Today, we take an insightful journey into the plumbing industry, discussing the key challenges that come with hiring plumbers, from pre-employment checks for licenses and insurance to assessing the potential of candidates with past mistakes. If you’re involved in, or considering a career in the plumbing industry, you’ll find this discussion chock-full of practical insights.We take a deep look into the licensing requirements of the plumbing industry and how to manage interviews with candidates who've had a rough past. We also shed light on the subtle art of maintaining fairness in hiring while aligning with business values. Wrapping up, we venture into the job market of Missoula, Montana, exploring the opportunities it presents for plumbers. Whether you’re a plumber looking to understand industry hiring practices, a business owner in the plumbing industry, or someone interested in the mechanisms of the labor market, this episode is a must-listen for 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

Ever dreamed of running your own business? Buckle up as we reveal the top three blunders new entrepreneurs often fall prey to, and how a solid business plan can prove to be an invaluable tool in sidestepping these common pitfalls. Guided by the enduring wisdom of Benjamin Franklin, we underscore the role of meticulous planning in both life and business. Wondering how to safeguard your venture from the perils of overspending and underpricing? We dive deep into our own experiences and shed light on these potential hazards. From exploring the intricate links between personal credit and business to understanding the integral aspects of business operations, we've got you covered. We end on a crucial note, emphasizing the role of budgeting and the much-needed mindfulness in averting overspending. Get ready for an enlightening and informative discussion that could be a gamechanger for your entrepreneurial journey.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

Ever been left in the lurch because you didn't have the right part at hand? Don’t let missing parts throw a wrench in your day. We explore the importance of a well-stocked parts kit, and how it can save both time and money when it comes to equipment installation and repairs. Drawing from my own experiences, we delve not only into the practical benefits of having the right part at hand, but also the potential cost implications. After all, having the right tools can be the difference between gaining a new customer and losing an old one.We've all experienced the frustration of not having the right tool for the job at hand. This episode also discusses a real-life boiler incident where the lack of a parts kit led to some smoky consequences. For those of you new to shop ownership or hesitant about investing in a parts kit, we also talk about the importance of proper equipment installation and service. Remember, if you install it, you should be able to service it 100%. So, tune in, let's help you get your toolkit in order!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

Buckle up for an episode full of laughter, intrigue, and insight as we delve into the evolving roles of journeymen and apprentices, share some hilarious tales of our old mate Justin, and discuss the increasing importance of technology in our industry.We've all had a Justin in our lives - the guy who keeps things interesting, to say the least. Strap in for some workplace tales of deception and mystery that rival the best detective novels. When the dust settles, we find ourselves with some valuable lessons about the necessity of transparency and integrity in our work. We also put the spotlight on the apprentice-journeyman dynamic, discussing how apprentices stepping up their game can be a game-changer in shaping their careers.Steering back to the future, we explore the impact of GPS technology on trade efficiency. The debate heats up as we weigh the pros and cons of this game-changing tool. Rounding off, we take a linguistic detour, comparing regional variations in trade terminology. It’s not just fun trivia, but a crucial reminder of clear communication’s role in our field. Whether a seasoned tradesman or a curious newcomer, this episode is your ticket to a fresh perspective on the industry. So, pull up a chair, pop in those earbuds, and come along for the ride!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

Ever rolled up your sleeves and ventured into the intricate world of bathroom remodeling? If yes, then you'll share in my excitement as I personally navigate this demanding yet rewarding task. From ripping out my old toilet and vanity to mastering the art of plumbing, join me on a behind-the-scenes journey of my very own bathroom renovation. Hear about the nitty-gritty details, the highs and lows, and the ultimate satisfaction of seeing the project come together. I'll also share the unique experience of laying the floor using Schluter Duo PS pressure sensitive, something I'd never done before.Pondering over the right shower fixture for your bathroom? It's not just about aesthetics! In the second part of the episode, we delve into the thought process behind choosing the perfect shower fixtures, with a keen focus on water conservation and eco-friendliness. Adding a touch of luxury, we explore the idea of incorporating a steam generator into the bathroom and the irresistible lifetime warranty that comes along. To wrap up, we walk you through a real-life bathroom makeover of a customer’s steam shower, giving you a first-hand account of a true transformation. So, buckle up for an enlightening podcast packed with practical advice, insightful design tips and an abundance of remodeling inspiration.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

Ever wondered how it feels to switch careers and dive headfirst into a completely unfamiliar field? Meet Brent McCauley, a project manager at Aarow Building, who transitioned from university fundraising to the construction industry. His unique journey, filled with challenges and learning experiences, is a testament to the beauty of career exploration. We delve into how Brent found his passion for problem-solving within the building industry, a far cry from his decade-long stint in fundraising.As we dissect Brent’s career trajectory, we navigate through the detours and pit stops that led him back to construction. We talk about the challenges of learning on the job, and how he returned to his roots in Missouri, bringing his unique skills and experiences to Arrow Buildings. Brent's boss, Jake, plays a significant role in his growth story. We also discuss the apprenticeship programs within the skilled trades and the effects of the pandemic on career transitions.In our final segment, Brent shares his ambitions for growth in building and construction. We explore his desire to take on more project management roles and his knack for connecting with diverse clients. We also discuss how Brent’s love for the team approach in construction drives him to excel in his projects. From managing a 1800 square foot house in Millersburg to his social media insights for building professionals, Brent's journey is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice. Join us for this riveting conversation and learn from Brent's unique career path.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 truly prepared for the subtle and not-so-subtle changes the shifting seasons bring on your business? We're sharing our experiences and practical tips on how to adapt and thrive during these seasonal transitions. From the simple tasks like removing non-freeze safe items from your van to the more complex ones like recalibrating combustion analyzers, we've got you covered. We also highlight what types of materials you need to stock up on, like venting for boilers, water heaters, and furnaces, along with gas pipe and CSST.When colder weather hits, are you ready to navigate the challenges it brings? This episode is packed with insights on preparing for the heating season and maintaining an efficient inventory. We delve into the importance of having a well-stocked supply to lessen the need for ordering items for each job. Amidst the fluctuating supply market and rising metal prices, we provide strategies on how to make pre-ordering items from suppliers work for you. We also discuss tools and supplies designed to withstand cold weather, along with tips for winterizing your home. So listen in, gain practical knowledge, and get ready to conquer any season!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

Looking to skyrocket your sales? We promise you that our latest episode of Make Trades Great Again will arm you with the strategies to do so! From the initial phone call to closing the deal, we're going all-in on what it takes to master sales in today's fast-paced business world. We spill the tea on how to attract customers, how to utilize face-to-face meetings to your advantage, and why understanding your customer's needs can be the difference between a sale and a missed opportunity.How often do you find yourself in a tussle, recommending heating systems to your customers? Don't sweat it; we've been there! We're delving deep into how to present the right products. From giving your customers options, being well-versed with your products, to asking for the sale, we're covering it all. And yes, we're also looking into the tricky aspect of closing the sale and the payment options. We'll guide you on how to make that final push without being pushy, how to look presentable, and why you shouldn't underestimate the power of a good follow-up.But what happens after the sale? That's where our discussion on handling equipment and inventory comes in. We tell you why ordering the right parts in advance is critical and how to handle those last-minute emergencies that everyone dreads. We also talk about why you should keep a diverse stock of parts, even those you don't need at the moment. Wrapping up, we discuss how you can stay organized and prepared, ensuring you have all the right tools and materials at hand, and why advanced planning is the bedrock of successful sales. So, tune into our episode and become the sales superstar you've always meant to be!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

Ready to unravel the fascinating world of heat pump water heaters and the influence of ducting on these devices? We promise, this episode will equip you with insights that can potentially save you a great deal of trouble. We kick off by exploring the common practice of ducting water heaters to the outside and why it might not be required in unfinished spaces. Also, discover how heat pump water heaters can be a game-changer in commercial places where there's an existing heat source.Ever wonder how humidity levels affect the efficiency of heat pump water heaters? Well, we've got you covered! We take a deep-dive into the role of varying humidity levels, especially in humid regions like Minnesota, and how heat pump water heaters might still be beneficial without impacting your gas bill. We also discuss the relevance of the size of your furnace and the BTUs per hour of the heater. We wrap up with some invaluable tips on ducting and the importance of reading the installation instructions. So, gear up for this enlightening roller-coaster ride that will leave you with a wealth of knowledge on heat pump water heaters and ducting.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

Picture this: you're running a small business and you just can't seem to get your hands on the materials you need, in the quantities you need, when you need them. Sounds familiar, doesn't it? We absolutely get it, and we're here to commiserate and share our experiences. Join us for a fascinating conversation with John Mason Brink from the Appetite for Construction podcast, who's been embroiled in a master bathroom remodel for the last five months due to these exact challenges. We'll be sharing insights on the nuances of ordering materials, overcoming roadblocks, and the critical role of communication with suppliers. In the plumbing world, supply and vent issues are abound. We talk about how supply and demand dictate material availability and share some of our own tricks of the trade like using polypropylene reducers for short vent issues. We also highlight our experiences with 636 pipe, CPVC adapters, and stainless steel as alternatives to PVC. Don't miss our chat about the unexpected surprises and costs that come with boiler inspections and the importance of having access to emergency materials. And, as we look forward to the changing seasons, we discuss the impact of supply and demand shifts on material availability. This is a conversation that will provide you priceless insights into the world of small business challenges and how to navigate them. You wouldn't want to miss it!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