The Trades Podcast

Hosted by Jeff Mudd, Danny Torres

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200

Latest episode

May 2026

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About the show

The Trades Podcast is where contractors, home service pros, and industry leaders serving residential and commercial construction turn for the ideas, inspiration, and information they need to build lasting success. Join host Danny Torres and resident expert Jeff Mudd for strategies you can use today to grow your business.

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44 recent

September 9, 2026Episode 21342 min

Taking Over the Family Contracting Business: A Step-by-Step Plan

Family business succession, contractor growth strategy, flat-rate pricing, and building a leadership team: Tyler Heath shares how he took over Ricky Heath Plumbing, Heating and Cooling from his father and grew it from $3M to $12M in under five years, during COVID, with outdated systems and a team resistant to change. In Episode 213 of The Trades Podcast, Tyler breaks down the exact decisions and execution steps that drove rapid, managed growth: Adopting technology to modernize outdated operations Shifting from hourly pricing to flat-rate pricing to boost margins Adding HVAC to expand service offerings Building a marketing plan around customer service and positive reviews Recruiting the right talent and developing future leaders Whether you're taking over a family contracting business, buying a company, or trying to grow your existing operation, Tyler's step-by-step approach is a practical playbook for turning execution into results, no matter what's happening around you. Subscribe to The Trades Podcast for more real conversations with trades industry leaders. WEBSITE: https://www.rickyheathplumbing.com/ EMAIL: tyler@rickyHeathplumbing.com FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/RickyHeathPlumbing/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/rickyheathphc/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ricky-heath-plumbing-heating-cooling

August 13, 2026Episode 21252 min

Ep 212 Kim Pike-Walters -KPWFinancialCoaching.com

In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Kim Pike-Walters of KPW Financial Coaching to discuss the importance of financial education, planning, and confidence for trades professionals and entrepreneurs. The conversation examines the financial challenges that can come with running a business, earning a strong income, and trying to balance today's responsibilities with tomorrow's goals. Topics Discussed Building financial confidence Creating a personal financial plan Managing money as a business owner Separating business and personal financial decisions Preparing for long-term financial goals Developing better financial habits Understanding the importance of financial education Turning business success into personal financial security Planning for the future instead of simply reacting to today Resources & Mentions KPW Financial Coaching https://kpwfinancialcoaching.com/ The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn Why financial education matters for trades professionals How better financial habits can support long-term success Why business owners need to think beyond revenue The importance of planning for the future How financial confidence can influence business and personal decisions Why earning more does not automatically create financial security

August 5, 2026Episode 21152 min

Ep 211 Jane and Mandi - Learning About Women in HVAC

In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Mandi Ehman from Cardinal Plumbing, Heating & Air and Jane Sidebottom , President of Women in HVACR , to discuss leadership, mentorship, and the future of workforce development in the skilled trades. The conversation explores how businesses can attract, develop, and retain talented professionals by creating supportive cultures, investing in training, and encouraging career growth. Jane shares how Women in HVACR provides education, networking, scholarships, and professional development opportunities that strengthen both individuals and the industry as a whole. Mandi discusses the importance of customer service, team collaboration, and leadership within a growing home services company, while both guests emphasize that successful organizations thrive when they invest in people first. Topics Discussed Leadership in the skilled trades Building strong workplace cultures Mentorship and professional development Recruiting the next generation of trades professionals Expanding opportunities throughout the HVACR industry Workforce development and employee retention Customer service and team excellence The future of women in the skilled trades Resources & Mentions Cardinal Plumbing, Heating & Air https://www.cardinalplumbingva.com/ Women in HVACR https://www.womeninhvacr.org/ The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com Takeaways Women in HVACR organization supports women in the HVAC industry Mentorship and career path programs are essential for attracting and retaining talent in the trades Technology and AI are transforming the trades industry, making learning and skill development faster and more efficient. Diversity, community, and mentorship play a crucial role in business growth and success in the trades industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Recording in San Diego 01:13 Mandy's Introduction and Company Overview 02:25 Jane's Introduction and Women in HVACR 03:59 Impact of Women in HVACR 05:57 Challenges and Culture in the Trades 07:09 Training and Career Path at Cardinal 09:12 Challenges for Women in the Trades 10:11 Promoting Trades to Women 12:47 Interest in Trades and Mentorship 15:31 Uptick in Interest and Influencers 18:41 Changing Perceptions of College and Trades 19:08 Career Path and Culture at Cardinal 22:22 Impact of AI in the HVAC Industry 45:32 Building a Better Team and Business Growth

July 22, 2026Episode 21055 min

Ep 210 Rex Alexandre -HandheldLaserInstitute.com

With decades of experience in industrial technology and workforce education, Rex has become a leading advocate for safe, effective, and standardized training in handheld laser welding, cleaning, and cutting. As laser technology becomes more accessible across industries, he believes education is the key to helping contractors and manufacturers adopt these powerful tools with confidence. Jeff, Danny, and Rex discuss how handheld lasers are improving productivity, reducing material waste, and creating new opportunities for skilled professionals. They also explore why proper certification, safety practices, and workforce training are essential as this technology continues to gain momentum throughout the construction and manufacturing sectors. Whether you're a contractor, fabricator, welding professional, shop owner, or technology enthusiast, this episode provides an exciting look at one of the fastest-growing innovations shaping the future of the skilled trades. Share this episode with someone who wants to stay ahead of industry trends and discover how technology is creating new possibilities for trades professionals around the world. Learn more about the Handheld Laser Institute 👉 https://handheldlaserinstitute.com Handheld Laser Institute https://handheldlaserinstitute.com About Rex Alexandre https://handheldlaserinstitute.com/about/ The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Handheld Laser Welding 02:51 Rex Alexander's Journey in Laser Welding 05:49 Understanding Handheld Laser Welding Technology 08:39 Applications and Misconceptions of Laser Welding 11:42 Safety and Training in Laser Welding 14:43 Industry Integration and Challenges 17:23 Future of Laser Welding in Various Industries 20:29 Training and Certification in Laser Welding 23:14 Comparing Laser Welding to Traditional Methods 26:16 Cost Efficiency and Practical Applications of Laser Welding 30:58 Navigating Laser Safety and OSHA Regulations 33:23 The Role of AI in Laser Welding 36:43 Addressing the Skilled Labor Shortage in Welding 41:00 Training the Next Generation of Welders 44:53 The Future of Welding in Space 49:13 Advice for Contractors in a Changing Industry 50:11 Lightning Round: Quick Insights from Rex

July 15, 2026Episode 20943 min

Ep 209 Ann Sommer - THE FEAR CODE™

What if the biggest obstacle holding you back in business, leadership, or life isn't your competition, but your own fear? In this compelling episode of The Trades Podcast , hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres welcome Ann Steffen Sommer, PA-C , healthcare professional, speaker, and creator of The Fear Code® , for a conversation about overcoming fear and unlocking your full potential. Drawing on decades of experience in healthcare and human behavior, Ann introduces the principles behind The Fear Code® , a framework designed to help people identify the fears that quietly influence their decisions, relationships, and leadership. She explains how recognizing these patterns can lead to greater confidence, healthier communication, and more intentional choices both at work and at home. Together, Jeff, Danny, and Ann explore how fear affects entrepreneurs, contractors, and business owners every day, from hiring employees and growing a company to making difficult decisions and leading teams through uncertainty. The discussion highlights practical strategies for replacing fear with purpose, resilience, and action. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or working to become a stronger version of yourself, this episode will challenge the way you think about fear and inspire you to move forward with confidence. Share this episode with someone who is ready to break through self-doubt, embrace growth, and discover that courage isn't the absence of fear, it's the decision to move forward despite it. Learn more about The Fear Code® and Ann Steffen Sommer 👉 https://annsommer.com/lawoffear Resources & Mentions Ann Steffen Sommer https://annsommer.com The Fear Code® https://annsommer.com/lawoffear The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn How fear impacts leadership and business performance Strategies for overcoming fear-based decision-making Why emotional intelligence matters in the trades How self-awareness improves communication Practical tools for building confidence and resilience Ways to create stronger teams through healthier leadership

July 10, 2026Episode 20844 min

Ep 208 Andreina Leal-Carrillo - TheRepairTech.com

What if the future of the home services industry isn't just about repairing homes, but also transforming the way contractors and homeowners work together? In this episode of The Trades Podcast , hosts Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres sit down with Andreina Leal-Carrillo , CEO and Co-Founder of The Repair Tech , to discuss how technology, innovation, and customer-first thinking are redefining the restoration and property repair industry. In this episode, Jeff and Danny welcome Andreina Leal-Carrillo , CEO and Co-Founder of The Repair Tech , for a conversation about innovation, entrepreneurship, and the future of property repair technology. Andreina discusses her vision for improving communication and efficiency throughout the repair process by connecting contractors, homeowners, property managers, and insurance professionals through technology-driven solutions. She also shares lessons learned from building a growing company, leading teams through change, and creating customer-focused systems that improve project outcomes. Topics discussed include: Building a technology company that serves the trades Improving communication throughout the repair process Innovation in restoration and property repair Leadership and entrepreneurship in construction technology Creating better customer experiences through digital solutions Opportunities for women in construction and technology The future of repair management and project collaboration Resources & Mentions The Repair Tech https://therepairtech.com Meet the Team https://therepairtech.com/about-us/the-team/ The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn How technology is improving property repair workflows Why communication is critical to successful repair projects The challenges and rewards of launching a construction technology company How innovation benefits contractors and homeowners alike Leadership lessons from building a fast-growing business The future of digital transformation in the repair industry Chapters 00:00 Empowerment and Continuous Learning in the Trades Industry 19:27 Women in Trades: The Industrious Women Summit 21:50 Diversity and Inclusion in Business 22:47 Family's Role in Business 23:40 Leadership and Business Operations 25:10 Leadership Style and Employee Growth 29:30 Business Scaling and Education 36:26 Resources for Special Needs Families 41:36 Community and Encouragement

July 1, 2026Episode 20746 min

Ep 207 Demi Knight Clark - DemiKnightClark.com

What does it take to transform adversity into purpose and build a life dedicated to inspiring others? Demi shares her remarkable journey of overcoming life's challenges while building a career centered on helping others unlock their potential. Through authentic storytelling and hard-earned life lessons, she explains how resilience, mindset, and intentional leadership can create opportunities in business and in life. In this episode, Jeff and Danny sit down with Demi Knight Clark for an inspiring conversation about resilience, leadership, entrepreneurship, and living with purpose. Drawing from her personal experiences and professional journey, Demi discusses how mindset plays a critical role in overcoming adversity and building meaningful success. She shares practical advice on becoming a stronger leader, improving communication, and creating authentic connections that positively impact both business and personal life. The conversation also highlights how resilience is developed through experience, why vulnerability can be a leadership strength, and how purpose-driven entrepreneurs can inspire those around them. Topics Discussed Developing resilience through life's challenges Leadership built on authenticity and trust The power of mindset in business and life Entrepreneurial growth through purpose Building meaningful relationships Effective communication and personal development Inspiring others through service and leadership Resources & Mentions Demi Knight Clark https://www.demiknightclark.com/ The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn How resilience creates stronger leaders Why authenticity builds lasting relationships Practical ways to improve communication The importance of purpose in entrepreneurship How mindset influences long-term success Strategies for overcoming personal and professional obstacles

June 25, 2026Episode 20647 min

Ep 206 Jeff Kip, CEO - Angi.com

In this episode, Jeff and Danny welcome Jeff Kip , CEO of Angi , for a conversation about the future of home services and the role technology plays in connecting homeowners with qualified professionals. Jeff discusses Angi's mission to simplify the home improvement process while helping contractors reach more customers and grow their businesses. The discussion covers the changing expectations of homeowners, the importance of online reputation management, and how contractors can stand out in competitive markets. Topics discussed include: The evolution of the home services marketplace How technology is transforming customer acquisition Building trust between homeowners and contractors Online reviews and reputation management What today's homeowners expect from service providers Strategies for growing a home service business The future of home improvement and contractor marketing Why skilled trades remain essential to every community Resources & Mentions Angi https://www.angi.com Angi Investor Relations https://ir.angi.com The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn How homeowners search for and hire contractors today Why customer trust is more important than ever Ways contractors can improve visibility and lead generation How technology is reshaping the home services industry Best practices for managing online reviews and reputation Trends shaping the future of home improvement Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Home Services Companies 02:51 The Homeowner's Journey: Changes Over the Decade 05:57 Success Strategies for Contractors 08:45 Leveraging Technology: AI in Home Services 11:43 Common Mistakes in Lead Generation 14:27 The Importance of Reviews and Follow-ups 17:25 Hiring Challenges in the Contracting Industry 20:21 Future Trends in Home Services 23:27 The Role of AI in Enhancing Efficiency 26:32 The Human Touch in a Tech-Driven World 29:08 The Future of Home Services Companies 32:07 Advice for Contractors: Balancing Sales and Quality 34:56 Building a Reputation: The Power of Reviews 37:47 Networking Opportunities for Contractors

June 17, 2026Episode 20546 min

Ep 205 Hiring Too Late: The Most Expensive Mistake Small Contractors Make

DJ Danny Torres and Jeff Mudd discuss the impact of delayed hiring on contractors, the financial implications of understaffing, and the importance of strategic hiring decisions. They explore apprenticeship programs, the role of technology in hiring, and the integration of office administrators to improve business efficiency. The conversation delves into the impact of technology on business growth, the process of hiring a salesperson, developing effective sales processes, the importance of communication and training, sales rep compensation strategies, networking and business coaching, team expansion, successful and delayed hires, and hiring strategy and preparation. The key takeaways include the importance of hiring when busy, the cost of waiting, and the need for effective preparation and system implementation. Takeaways The cost of delayed hiring includes missed calls, delayed estimates, and a negative impact on growth. Strategic hiring decisions, apprenticeship programs, and technology integration are crucial for improving business efficiency and customer interactions. Hire when busy, not desperate The cost of waiting is often greater than payroll Best hires are made before an emergency Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Business Insights 05:36 Financial Impact of Delayed Hiring 13:56 Supporting Apprentice Programs 20:48 Office Administration and Technology 27:07 Hiring a Salesperson 32:11 Networking and Business Coaching 37:41 Best and Delayed Hires

June 4, 2026Episode 20444 min

Ep 204 Nichole Ovens- Resource-Innovations.com

In this episode, Jeff and Danny welcome Nichole Ovens from Resource Innovations to discuss how innovation, workforce development, and energy programs are helping transform the skilled trades landscape. Nichole explains how Resource Innovations works with utilities, contractors, businesses, and communities to implement programs that improve energy efficiency while creating economic and workforce opportunities. The discussion highlights the increasing need for trained professionals as energy systems evolve and new technologies become more widely adopted. The conversation covers: The role of innovation in the future of the trades Workforce development and career opportunities Energy efficiency and sustainability initiatives Building partnerships between industry and communities The growing demand for skilled professionals in emerging markets Leadership and creating meaningful impact through collaboration Resources and Mentions Resource Innovations https://resource-innovations.com Nichole Ovens LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/nichole-ovens/ The Trades Podcast https://www.thetradespodcast.com What You Will Learn How innovation is creating new opportunities in the trades Why workforce development remains critical to industry growth The connection between energy efficiency and skilled trades careers How partnerships help strengthen local economies Emerging trends shaping the future of infrastructure and energy Keywords Nichole Ovens, Resource Innovations, energy efficiency programs, workforce development, sustainability initiatives, skilled trades careers, clean energy workforce, utility programs, contractor opportunities, infrastructure innovation, trade workforce solutions, energy management, future of the trades