Episodes
219
Latest episode
Jul 2026
Language
EN
The Blue Collar Boss Podcast is about the real leadership challenges of running blue-collar businesses. Hosted by entrepreneur and author Mark Stoner, this show shares hard-earned lessons from building service companies, leading teams, and navigating the pressure of the boss’s seat. You’ll hear real stories, practical leadership insights, and honest conversations about hiring, training, accountability, systems, and culture in the trades. If you’re a contractor, technician, or business owner trying to build something that lasts — this podcast is for you. Because hard work builds the business
Tonight we talk about the biggest shift that has happened to our industry in a long time. private Equity has entered our industry and two of the leading voices are with us tonight. Rhett Hogan and Branson Tibbs www.SureFireB2S.com
I have had so many business owners and entrepreneurs tell me they are ready to quit, hang it up, etc. They are sick of it. Are you tired of your business or are you DONE? Those are different. I have never met a successful business owner that didn't think about quitting but I have met a lot that were glad they didn't. The Blue Collar Boss Book https://a.co/d/08JzkOLy
Summary In this conversation, Mark Stoner discusses the concept of 'The Obstacle is the Way,' emphasizing how challenges and setbacks can lead to growth and success in business and life. He shares personal anecdotes about overcoming difficulties, the importance of leadership, and the necessity of adapting to change. Stoner highlights the significance of treating problems as opportunities for improvement and the need for resilience in the face of adversity. He also addresses the importance of control and acceptance in navigating challenges, and how growth often comes with its own set of obstacles. Takeaways The obstacle is often the path to success. Treat challenges as systems to be understood, not just problems to be fixed. Hard times build resilience and character. Leadership is developed through overcoming failures. Control what you can, accept what you can't. Growth in business often comes with significant challenges. Every setback can reveal new opportunities. You need external feedback to identify personal barriers. The journey of entrepreneurship is filled with obstacles. Grit is essential for long-term success in business. Sound Bites "The obstacle is the way." "Growth has a toll booth." "You are the problem." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Obstacles as Opportunities 02:46 The First Encounter with Obstacles 05:31 Transforming Setbacks into Strengths 09:40 Leadership Through Adversity 11:16 Focus and Adaptation in Business 15:47 The Power of a Fix-It Mindset 19:16 Control and Acceptance in Business 22:22 Growth and the Toll Booth 28:50 Identifying Your Personal Obstacles
In this episode, I interview Caleb Martinez, a third-generation mason and emerging leader in the chimney industry. They discuss Caleb's journey from being a worker to a business owner, the importance of quality craftsmanship, and the role of guilds in fostering community and mentorship. Caleb shares his personal experience of a life-changing accident and the lessons learned from it, emphasizing the need for business continuity and the importance of pouring into the next generation. The conversation highlights the unique camaraderie within the chimney industry and the value of relationships built through shared experiences. Takeaways Caleb Martinez is a third-generation mason with a rich family legacy in the industry. Quality craftsmanship is a core value instilled by Caleb's father and grandfather. Transitioning from a field worker to a business owner presents unique challenges. Guilds play a crucial role in fostering community and mentorship in the chimney industry. Leadership in the chimney industry comes with its challenges and responsibilities. Caleb's accident served as a wake-up call for business continuity and personal growth. The importance of relationships and community in the chimney industry cannot be overstated. Caleb aims to pour into the next generation of chimney professionals. Recovery from an accident can reveal the strengths and weaknesses of a business. Caleb's future aspirations include mentoring and growing his business responsibly. Sound Bites "It's in my blood." "I was very lucky." "Don't be a hack." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Caleb Martinez 02:55 The Legacy of Masonry: A Family Tradition 05:57 Transitioning from Worker to Owner 08:56 Finding Passion in the Craft 12:02 The Journey into Leadership 14:42 The Value of Guilds and Community 17:52 Accident and Life Lessons 20:58 Reflections on Safety and Risk Management 31:46 The Fall and Its Impact 35:41 Navigating Recovery and Business Challenges 38:29 Lessons Learned from Adversity 44:34 Building a Resilient Business 50:27 Mentorship and Giving Back to the Community
Business owners must act before the fall starts , not after. False confidence in a fallback plan is as dangerous as relying on a weak gutter in chimney work . The best businesses don’t operate on hope—they plan, they commit, and they don’t leave themselves an easy way out .
Welcome back everyone to 2025. Let's start off the year with a challenge and goals for our business, our health, our families! Today Steve Krebs talks about a program that our SureFire Subscribers will have an opportunity to participate in starting on Feb 6. We have a few discovery calls coming up so if you are interested in knowing more, join us on the call! You can also email us at infor@surefire.online Thank you! Let's Gooooooo!
In this episode I interview Sam Lawton. I have gotten to know Sam well through our SureFire Accelerator Program and I am always inspired by his energy and willingness to always help others. Sam discusses how he went from knocking on door to developing into a team of 10 with his sights set on much further.
Do you have the energy, do you have the "go" do you have the fortitude to get your butt kicked and get out of your comfort zone? If you feel stuck, you need to check your choices and this episode takes a look at. I have had to ask myself this question many times through the years and this year is no different.
In this episode I discuss the origins of the :aw of the Lid and the implications all through your business journey. You are truley only as old as you think you are!
Happy Independence Day! In this episode I discuss some amazing technology that happened during a recent car crash that I was in as well as the amazing place that America is for business's to get started.
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Marvette Lacy, PhD
Michael Michelini: Global Internet Businessman in China, Asia
Jason Graystone & Akil Stokes
Phil Rogacki & Jared Abrojena
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