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EPISODES

  • Episode 56: Second-Generation Advances at Cerrone Plumbing & HVAC
    Episode 56: Second-Generation Advances at Cerrone Plumbing & HVAC

    Episode 56: Second-Generation Advances at Cerrone Plumbing & HVAC

    Episode 56: Second-Generation Advances at Cerrone Plumbing & HVAC

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Joe Cerrone of Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning!

    Joe is the second person to head the operations of Cerrone, after his father... What advances did he bring to the business? What's stayed the same? What did he learn along the way? Listen to this episode to hear the answers, plus much more!

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:15 - What Was That?

    00:37 - Show Begins: What’s New at the Farm?

    03:30 - Goat Lawn Care

    04:41 - Doubling in Size Every Three Years?!

    06:02 - Joe Cerrone: A History

    07:54 - Coming a Long Way

    09:11 - Plumbing is for Plumbers!

    10:13 - Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning: Entering the Next Generation

    12:42 - The Right Way to Scale: It’s All About the Details!

    14:39 - Taking the Reins

    17:48 - What Changes… And What Stays the Same

    19:34 - The Value of the Paper Trail

    20:37 - Keep That Product in Stock!

    21:58 - A Structured Focus

    23:53 - Teachers: The Most Valuable Resource… If They’re Willing!

    25:40 - Net Fencing Sure is Frustrating!

    26:49 - Becoming an Owner Isn’t Easy!

    27:52 - What’s Happening with Work Ethic? Stay Off the Phone!

    30:19 - AI as a Professionalism Tool

    32:37 - iPads for Technicians: Pull up Data, Record Video, and More!

    33:42 - Document EVERYTHING!

    34:14 - A Day in the Life of Joe Cerrone: Quality Checking Champ!

    36:12 - Curing the “Hey Mike” Disease: Train and Let Your People Problem-Solve

    38:46 - Papas Can’t Sleep!

    40:15 - The Biggest Challenge… Is the Unending Flow of Challenges!

    43:45 - Joe’s Advice: Blue Collar Work Isn’t Easy, but It’s Worth It!

    45:32 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB and Michaels Group!

    46:09 - Mike’s Social Media Cycle: Install, Uninstall, Install…


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Joe Cerrone

    • Runtime

      47 Minutes, 56 Seconds

    • Air Date

      June 10th, 2024


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  • Episode 55: Cracking Open Cold Ones at Cornell's
    Episode 55: Cracking Open Cold Ones at Cornell's

    Episode 55: Cracking Open Cold Ones at Cornell's

    Episode 55: Cracking Open Cold Ones at Cornell's

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster talk with Mike Colvett and Casey Cornell of Cornell's Auto Parts!

    Cornell's is doing something very special... They boast the claim that their auto operation is heavily recycling-based, reusing car oil, parts, metal, carpeting, and more from their cars! How is this possible? How did they get started doing this? Hear the answers to those questions and many more by listening to this episode!

    00:00 - Introductions: Greenfield Center is Beautiful!

    01:12 - Podcast Happy Hour: Tinney’s Tavern Reopens!

    02:14 - Thanks, DTGC! Shoutout to Fierro’s!

    03:44 - Cornell’s Auto Parts… Not a Junkyard!

    05:32 - Second-Generation

    06:46 - A Growing Business: From One Employee to 40

    07:52 - Insurance by Day, Construction by Night

    08:44 - Cracking Open a Cold One with the Boys

    09:18 - Hiring: A Tough Decision, But an Important One

    13:39 - New Cars Don’t Make Money… Parts and Service Does!

    14:49 - A High-Tech, Organized Operation

    17:13 - Frustration Hires a GM

    19:32 - Strange Noises

    20:04 - The Cornell Network: What Collaboration Can Do

    24:32 - Mike the Sales Trainer

    25:44 - Leave All-Nighters to the Young!

    26:41 - EVERYTHING Gets Recycled: Oil, Gas, Parts, and More!

    29:30 - Car-Crushin’: Go Watch Pulp Fiction!

    31:42 - Finding the Right People

    33:29 - Career Hagglers Are Scary!

    35:27 - The Part-Cleaning Process

    37:49 - There is No Typical Day at Cornell’s!

    38:55 - A Versatile, Reliable Staff

    41:04 - Happy Holidays

    41:49 - Outside of Work… Is More Work? The Pricemaster

    44:50 - Snowmobiling, Drag Racing, Pizzamaking, and More!

    47:15 - Five Towers Client Appreciation at Dancing Grain!

    48:20 - What’s Next?

    50:13 - Keeping the Business Fun

    52:58 - Close at 5, Go Home at Midnight

    53:33 - The Key to Success… Is Patience!

    55:29 - How to Get in Touch

    56:07 - Is Greenfield Sheep or Cow Country?

    57:06 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to Michaels Group and MLB Construction!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Casey Cornell & Mike Colvett

    • Runtime

      57 Minutes, 47 Seconds

    • Air Date

      May 20th, 2024


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  • Episode 54: Taking the "Side" out of "Side Hustle"
    Episode 54: Taking the "Side" out of "Side Hustle"

    Episode 54: Taking the "Side" out of "Side Hustle"

    Episode 54: Taking the "Side" out of "Side Hustle"

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Josh Brown and Zach Moore of Brown Design & Construction!

    Both of them have other full-time jobs that they still take part in... And yet, the side hustle they started up out of curiosity has taken off like wildfire! What's their secret to success? How do they balance work responsibilities? What's their training? Find out the answers by tuning in to this episode!

    00:00 - Show Starts

    01:11 - Flippin’ Like a Burger-Man

    03:47 - The Corporate Life… Just One Thing? No Thanks!

    05:43 - Back to Construction: Everybody Needs a Contractor!

    08:18 - The Sickness of Not Saying No

    09:32 - Trade Training… Is on the Job!

    11:15 - Howdy, Partner: Two Sides of the Same Coin

    15:03 - Social Media Tells a Story… So Tell a Good One!

    16:39 - Every Piece of the Puzzle: Quality Systems

    20:03 - Processes Take Time to Implement

    20:44 - The One and Only Chad Beatty!

    21:18 - Visuals Make a Difference

    23:41 - Creative Projects are the Best!

    24:26 - The Biggest Side Hustle Going

    26:20 - Insurance Interactions

    28:45 - Self-Employed vs. Business Owner

    30:01 - The Trades Mean BIG Money!

    33:56 - “He’s a Welder”

    36:25 - Job Placement is Askew: Think About Those Degrees!

    39:27 - Don’t Be Scared to Be Scared: Go All In

    41:55 - How to Get in Touch: browndesignandconstruction.com

    442:26 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to Michaels Group and MLB Construction!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Josh Brown & Zach Moore

    • Runtime

      34 Minutes, 58 Seconds

    • Air Date

      May 13th, 2024


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  • Episode 53: One Man, One Plan - Zay Gets it Done
    Episode 53: One Man, One Plan - Zay Gets it Done

    Episode 53: One Man, One Plan - Zay Gets it Done

    Episode 53: One Man, One Plan - Zay Gets it Done

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Zay DuPree, the one-man mastermind behind DuPree Heating & Cooling!

    When people think of a one-man operation, they typically picture an old dude with a beat up truck and a couple fans in the truck bed... But Zay couldn't be further from that vision. Fully insured and thoroughly professional, Zay proudly stands by the quality of his process and results. If you need HVAC work done, Zay is the best one-man band in town!

    00:15 - Show Starts

    01:09 - An Introduction to Zay DuPree

    02:17 - Getting Started… Thanks to YouTube?!

    05:25 - Shoutout to the Blue Collar College!

    06:15 - A Man of Many Hats

    07:13 - The First Step… Was a Leap

    10:10 - Get Comfortable with the Uncomfortable

    12:49 - Let the Equipment Tell You

    14:24 - Sales & Marketing: The Achilles’ Heel

    16:40 - Feeling the Seal on the Deal

    18:02 - The Value of Learning

    19:07 - The Heartiest Crumbs: Big Business is a VERY Sloppy Eater!

    22:16 - Answering the Call

    24:06 - The Man with the Plan

    27:18 - HVAC Becomes a Passion

    29:33 - A Day in the Life of Zay DuPree: From Dawn ’til Dusk

    31:27 - Learning to Let People Down

    32:40 - A Scheduling Dream

    35:29 - Bet on the Long Game

    39:34 - Reach Out: A Learning Opportunity

    41:12 - He’s Got Folders!

    41:40 - Be the Means to Their End

    43:49 - I’m Going Digital… But Not Completely Digital

    45:51 - If You’re Thinking About It… Do It!

    49:33 - How to Get in Touch

    50:00 - Shoutout to Michaels Group, MLB Construction, HVCC, and BOCES!

    51:09 - Take Your Social Media Seriously!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Zay DuPree

    • Runtime

      52 Minutes, 31 Seconds

    • Air Date

      April 15th, 2024


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  • Episode 52: Dancing Grain - From Field to Glass
    Episode 52: Dancing Grain - From Field to Glass

    Episode 52: Dancing Grain - From Field to Glass

    Episode 52: Dancing Grain - From Field to Glass

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Rachel McDermott, the second-generation proprietor of Dancing Grain Farm Brewery!

    Dancing Grain runs a special operation - fully family-owned, they source every ingredient that goes into their brews at their own farm, without using any pesticides... This is as Blue Collar as it gets! Listen to this episode to hear their incredible story - recorded on site!

    00:15 - “On the Farm” with Mike Nelson: Bokashi Greens

    01:38 - Mushrooms Will Save the World!

    03:42 - The Show Begins: An Introduction to Dancing Grain’s Own Rachel

    05:15 - Let’s Go to the Hop

    06:16 - Wild vs. Domesticated Hops

    09:29 - Anatomy of a Brew

    11:49 - Dog Attack!

    12:26 - Sheep Yield

    13:25 - Sourcing Every Single Ingredient!

    15:05 - A Pesticide-Free Operation

    21:15 - The First Generation’s Story

    25:14 - Finding Her Way Back Home

    27:53 - Building a Brewery: It Takes Serious Skill!

    30:45 - Knitting Together the Supply Chain

    34:12 - The Name “Dancing Grain”

    35:05 - April 8th: Total Dankness Makes its Debut

    37:18 - Bar-ley Hopping

    39:07 - There is No Day-to-Day

    40:26 - Tiny Farms… Prop Up a Big Society

    41:56 - Something Very Special

    43:51 - Doing Better Than the Farmers’ Markets

    44:39 - Do Something You LOVE

    48:24 - How to Get in Touch: dancinggrain.com

    49:00 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Rachel McDermott

    • Runtime

      49 Minutes, 35 Seconds

    • Air Date

      April 1st, 2024


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  • Episode 51: A Family Foundation, Built Right
    Episode 51: A Family Foundation, Built Right

    Episode 51: A Family Foundation, Built Right

    Episode 51: A Family Foundation, Built Right

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Paul Lachar, owner and mason at Top Course Masonry!

    The whole family's in on this foundational construction dream... But there's no dysfunction here. Paul and his crew have served the region with pride for over 20 years, and there's no end in sight! Listen to this episode to hear about his experience, how he keeps the family in harmony, how he got back to school after an injury, and more!

    00:15 - Mike’s Feeling Well Again!

    01:47 - An Introduction to Paul, and Top Course Masonry

    02:55 - A History You Can Count On

    05:01 - Finding the Best Solution for You

    06:37 - Resolving an Issue… Truly

    07:37 - A Family Business

    10:13 - Welcome Back

    11:12 - A Little Bit of Everything

    12:22 - 100% On-the-Job

    13:39 - Make Your Choice

    15:19 - No TV Drama Here!

    16:51 - Mike’s No Mason… But He Does His Best!

    19:50 - Paul’s Biggest Challenge: Finding a Balance

    22:35 - Picking and Choosing

    25:14 - Maintaining the Work-Life Balance

    27:49 - What’s Next: The Offsite Location

    28:51 - It’s Your Choice

    30:12 - The One-Hour Radius

    30:54 - A Jiu Jitsu Brotherhood

    33:11 - Small World!

    34:25 - An Injury Provides an Opportunity: Back to School

    36:09 - Knowledge is Power… But it’s All About How You Use It!

    38:07 - Paul’s Advice: Don’t Ever Quit!

    40:00 - Stick it Out: Hardships Just Make You Stronger!

    41:38 - How to Get in Touch

    43:17 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Paul Lachar

    • Runtime

      44 Minutes, 20 Seconds

    • Air Date

      March 18th, 2023


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  • Episode 50: Hiring to Your Weaknesses... AND Strengths?
    Episode 50: Hiring to Your Weaknesses... AND Strengths?

    Episode 50: Hiring to Your Weaknesses... AND Strengths?

    Episode 50: Hiring to Your Weaknesses... AND Strengths?

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Michael Turcotte, proprietor of Turn Cycle Solutions!

    Michael built and grew his New Hampshire-based business with the usual hard work and hiring team members to cover his own weaknesses... But he also made the unique decision to hire people with similar strengths to his own. Why would he replace his own strengths with a costly employee, and how did this decision help his business grow? Listen to this episode, and you just might find out!

    00:36 - The Scoop on Turn Cycle Solutions

    02:22 - From Grandma’s Breezeway to 18 Trucks!

    07:33 - The Hiring Process: Covering Your Weaknesses

    10:30 - Letting Go of Your Strengths

    12:59 - The Employee Pipeline: Weird & Wacky

    16:59 - Balancing Family and Business

    20:41 - Cleaning Up a Mess

    21:42 - Dad: The Cut-Up

    22:58 - Patience is the Word

    24:34 - Keeping Positive

    29:10 - A Typical Day

    32:24 - Mike’s Key Advice: Go Do What You’re Good At

    33:45 - Human vs. Machine

    36:13 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Michael Turcotte

    • Runtime

      37 Minutes, 43 Seconds

    • Air Date

      February 12th, 2024


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  • Episode 49: The True Meaning of Leadership
    Episode 49: The True Meaning of Leadership

    Episode 49: The True Meaning of Leadership

    Episode 49: The True Meaning of Leadership

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Dean Leber, a top leadership consultant at The Leaders Group!

    The corporate world is full of bloated questions - "What's the difference between a mission and vision statement?" and "How do I empower my employees to become good leaders?" These questions seem jejune on the surface, but Dean has real, authentic answers to them that can help you, your team, and your business. Listen to this episode to find out how!

    00:15 - Opening Statements

    00:56 - 75-Hard… 113 Days

    01:45 - An Introduction to Dean Leber

    03:20 - Lebership

    04:49 - The Definition (and Importance) of a Mission

    07:38 - Unify, Inspire, Move

    08:35 - The Less Corporate, the Better!

    11:32 - How Long Should a Mission Statement Be?

    13:10 - Revisiting the Mission: Whenever It’s Relevant

    15:16 - Culture is: Values, and Action

    17:08 - Reaching Your People: The Intrinsic Method

    19:31 - The Five Towers Interview Process: Unicorn Wrangling

    21:16 - Structure: Developing and Empowering Leaders

    23:39 - Balancing Risks: Aim Small, Miss Small

    27:19 - Good Leaders Ask Questions

    28:45 - Addressing Failure: Meter Your Expectations

    31:16 - Mike Demands Sheep Talk

    32:48 - Read Philosophy: Dean Recommends Stoics

    34:12 - How to Get in Touch: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    34:58 - Mike Biffed It

    35:28 - Staying Young: Diet, Exercise, and Learning

    36:57 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB and Michaels Group!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Dean Leber

    • Runtime

      37 Minutes, 35 Seconds

    • Air Date

      February 5th, 2024


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  • Episode 48: From Scraping to Scaping
    Episode 48: From Scraping to Scaping

    Episode 48: From Scraping to Scaping

    Episode 48: From Scraping to Scaping

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Chris Manzela, co-owner of BradManz Landscaping! Chris has been working since he was only 14 years old, but he's progressed a long way since then - from $3.75 an hour bussing tables to owning his own business and a massive football fan cave, Chris' steps forward have not been small! What's his secret? Listen to this episode, and you just might find out!

    00:15 - Introductions

    01:32 - Whoa! New Sound Effects!

    02:11 - An Introduction to BradManz Landscaping

    04:26 - Getting Started… At 14?!

    06:16 - Food Service Wages… Thankfully Have Changed!

    07:04 - Picking (and Losing) a Partner

    08:05 - Chris Can Do It: Getting a Degree

    10:39 - Brickman!

    11:35 - Managing Over Maintenance

    14:21 - The Beginning of BradManz

    15:08 - Matching a Spirit of Generosity

    16:54 - Where’s the Work Ethic? Lazy Podcasters!

    20:54 - Broadcasting from the Bills Sanctuary

    21:16 - Building a Business: It Always Starts Small! Go Above and Beyond!

    24:51 - Do You Know, and Do You Care?

    26:39 - Shoutout to The Town Tinker!

    27:48 - Valorous Volunteerism: Shoutout to Ronald McDonald House!

    31:09 - Competition is a GOOD Thing! Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help!

    36:59 - Take Care of Your Unicorns!

    40:44 - A Day in the Life of Chris

    43:47 - A Well-Oiled Gearshift

    48:13 - Communication is Paramount!

    49:31 - Pay Your Bills!

    51:58 - Chris’ (Incorrect) Prediction for the Big Game

    52:51 - How to Get in Touch: bradmanzlandscaping.com

    54:11 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB and Michaels Group!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Chris Manzela

    • Runtime

      55 Minutes, 14 Seconds

    • Air Date

      January 29th, 2023


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  • Episode 47: Ownership vs. Management - Dimitri's Story
    Episode 47: Ownership vs. Management - Dimitri's Story

    Episode 47: Ownership vs. Management - Dimitri's Story

    Episode 47: Ownership vs. Management - Dimitri's Story

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Dimitri Skrinik, the Project Manager at MODS National!

    Dimitri's had an exciting journey, between emigrating from Moldova, leveraging internships into running his own blue collar business... And then leaving it to manage construction projects using shipping containers! Why did he choose Project Management over business ownership? What have his experiences taught him? Hear the answers, his story, and more here, in this episode!

    00:15 - Where IS the Dirty South?

    01:24 - An Introduction to Dimitri Skrinik

    04:17 - Why Construction? Thanks, Dad

    06:35 - Discipline: The Ups and Downs

    09:04 - Purpose Through Religion

    10:40 - The Wild West That is… Shipping Containers!

    13:45 - That Start-Up Feeling

    15:03 - Balancing Gigs: There’s Always a Solution!

    16:39 - The Moldovan Advantage

    18:20 - Get Out of Your Own Way!

    20:14 - Controlled Chaos: The Drifting Method

    22:22 - Dimitri’s Business: Taking (and Returning) the Reins

    26:57 - Working with Family isn’t Easy!

    27:59 - Owning a Business is Great… If You Can Handle It!

    32:38 - Entrepreneurship Means Marketing & Salesmanship: No Matter the Business!

    35:01 - There’s No Such Thing as an Accidental Cowboy: Horses are Scary, Man!

    37:41 - Keep Getting Better: Dimitri’s FunHouse

    40:05 - Dimitri’s Advice: There’s Never Been a Better Time to Enter the Trades!

    41:15 - How to Get in Touch

    42:03 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Dimitri Skrinik

    • Runtime

      43 Minutes, 19 Seconds

    • Air Date

      January 15th, 2024


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  • Episode 46: Advocating for the Trades - AGC NYS
    Episode 46: Advocating for the Trades - AGC NYS

    Episode 46: Advocating for the Trades - AGC NYS

    Episode 46: Advocating for the Trades - AGC NYS

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Brendan Manning, the Vice President of Education & Environment at AGC New York!

    The AGC (Associated General Contractors) specializes in discovering and solving the problems caused by federal and state legislation that pertain to the trades, and informing and working with local tradespeople based on that information. Whether it's by focusing on the legal side, directly training local business owners, or partnering with local organizations, the AGC is a fantastic Blue Collar advocate! Listen to this episode to learn more about their important mission!

    00:15 - Introductions: Happy Holidays!

    02:36 - Associated General Contractors of New York State: What Is It?

    04:41 - A Proactive, Reactive Organization: Weighing Potential Consequences of Policies

    09:01 - Bills: Separating the Valuable from the Crazy

    10:08 - A Better Way to Build: The Power of Computer Modeling

    11:26 - Mike’s Chicken Mansion: A Perfect Example

    13:25 - Nurturing the Budding Blue Collars: The Education Side of the AGC

    17:20 - Which Training to Do in Person, and Which You Can Do Online

    18:36 - Gaining Members During COVID: The Zoom Method

    19:54 - Affordable Programming: Funds Scholarships!

    21:45 - The Value of Schooling: Give Kids Options!

    23:14 - Shoutout to BOCES!

    23:51 - Don’t Go to College as a Statistic!

    25:37 - What Goes Into Running a Business: Stephanie’s Story

    29:18 - Cooperation to Improve Competition: P2P Networks

    31:46 - Building Capacity for Natural Diversity

    33:11 - Business Owner, Tradesman? Either Way, AGC can Help!

    34:20 - Membership Options

    36:22 - Suicide Awareness

    37:33 - Joint Operations: Partnering with NESCA

    40:33 - A Brief History of Brendan Manning: Banking, Software, Y2K, and More

    42:19 - Brendan’s Key Piece of Advice: Find a Good, Specialized Attorney and Accountant!

    44:07 - How to Get in Touch

    44:49 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB and Michaels Group!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Brendan Manning

    • Runtime

      46 Minutes, 6 Seconds

    • Air Date

      Janurary 8th, 2024


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  • Episode 45: Revolutionizing Workforce Development with BoomNation
    Episode 45: Revolutionizing Workforce Development with BoomNation

    Episode 45: Revolutionizing Workforce Development with BoomNation

    Episode 45: Revolutionizing Workforce Development with BoomNation

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Brent Flavin and David Johnson, co-founder & CEO, and Sales VP respectively of BoomNation! Finding workers and finding work - that's the biggest challenge the trades are facing. BoomNation breaks through the drawbacks of job boards, combining effective professional services with a fun and personal user experience. If you breathe Blue and want to work Blue, BoomNation is your solution!

    00:15 - Introductions: Welcome to BoomNation!

    04:00 - Not a Recruiter, Not a Forum: A Community

    08:37 - Facilitating the Connection: Cutting Through the Noise of a Typical Job Board

    10:58 - 90 Days, 98-Million Users Reached!

    12:11 - Professional and Fun: All in One

    16:40 - Helping Not Just Employees, But Employers, Too!

    18:24 - 92% Application Dropoff Rate?! How BoomNation Fixes It

    22:11 - The Upsides of a Union… Without the Downsides

    23:54 - Derek Arrives, Thumbs Appear

    24:40 - Getting Into the Trades: Never Too Early, Never Too Late!

    27:17 - Getting (And Staying) In the Trades

    30:56 - See a Need, Fill a Need: The BoomNation Origin Story

    36:34 - From Passive Project to Top App

    38:10 - A Great Project Starts With a Great Team!

    39:30 - You Want Quality? Pay For It…

    43:45 - …But Pay Alone Isn’t Enough! Be Responsive!

    46:40 - How to Get in Touch

    47:28 - Shoutout to MLB Construction and Michaels Group!

    48:15 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Brent Flavin & David Johnson

    • Runtime

      49 Minutes, 11 Seconds

    • Air Date

      January 2nd, 2024


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  • Episode 44: Fabricating the Future
    Episode 44: Fabricating the Future

    Episode 44: Fabricating the Future

    Episode 44: Fabricating the Future

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Terrence Musto and Robert Manasier - the creator of Fabbro Industries, and the business mentor that helped him do it! From a humble start building custom bikes to running his own professional fabrication shop, Terrence's business is a stunning example of the kind of value a business mentor like Robert can provide. Want to learn how to take that idea of yours to the next level? Listen to this episode to get a few clues!

    00:00:15 - Introductions

    00:02:13 - “Fix it in Post”? NO!

    00:03:21 - Fabbro Industries: From Motorbikes to Machines

    00:07:05 - The Demise of Apprenticeships

    00:08:05 - What is a Fabricator?

    00:11:14 - Riding Your Own Bike: Living the Dream

    00:13:26 - Earning Approval: A Multi-Step Process

    00:18:42 - Meeting Manasier: Taking the Motor Out of Motorbike

    00:20:54 - Good ol’ New York State: Michael and his Cycles

    00:22:01 - Building the Business: Outmaneuvering the Metrics

    00:25:53 - Private Enterprise Beats the State Every Time!

    00:29:28 - Blabbing About Beards

    00:31:02 - The Incubator: Build Out that Beachhead!

    00:35:42 - A Clear Pathway to Success: The Output DOES Matter!

    00:37:29 - The Play Entrepreneur… You Need More Than Just an Idea! Be Coachable!

    00:41:19 - Both Parties Need Accountability! Mike’s School Story

    00:42:35 - A Structured Cohort: Alpacas vs. Llamas

    00:45:38 - Bob’s First Business… Started at Age 13?! “But Do You Have a Job?”

    00:47:14 - The Biggest Challenge: Predicting the Future, Planning for Failures

    00:50:26 - Entering Production: There’s Lots of Factors You Haven’t Considered!

    00:54:12 - Finding Highly-Skilled Employees Isn’t Easy!

    00:55:10 - When Close Enough, Isn’t

    00:56:48 - Mike the Ne’er-Do-Weld

    00:57:39 - How to Get in Touch: And One Last Story

    00:59:53 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB Construction!

    01:00:31 - A Sneak Peek for Next Episode!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Terrence Musto & Robert Manasier

    • Runtime

      1 Hour, 1 Minute, 13 Seconds

    • Air Date

      December 19th, 2023


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  • Episode 43: Breaking the Blue Collar Stigma with Curtis Lumber
    Episode 43: Breaking the Blue Collar Stigma with Curtis Lumber

    Episode 43: Breaking the Blue Collar Stigma with Curtis Lumber

    Episode 43: Breaking the Blue Collar Stigma with Curtis Lumber

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Doug Ford and Pam Stott, two employees of Curtis Lumber who specialize in workforce development! It's all anyone can talk about now: "Where are all the young workers?" "What will happen to the trades in ten years?" If Doug and Pam have anything to say about it, things will only get better - they're dedicated to educating people across the state about their options, and the wonderful truths about Blue Collar work - it's not "a backup job", it's skilled, profitable, fulfilling, and essential!

    00:15 - Show Begins

    01:16 - Introductions

    02:56 - Fix that Mic!

    03:33 - All About Tupper and Saranac Lake

    05:40 - Combatting Workforce Development Challenges

    09:17 - The Blue Guarantee

    11:23 - Overcoming the College Expectation

    12:45 - Too Much Work? The “Real” Job Stigma

    15:30 - COVID Helped Grow the Trades?!

    16:52 - Stability, Benefits, Safety: The Trades Have Evolved!

    18:08 - The Organization Grows

    20:18 - Working with the Government

    22:43 - Striking Against Stereotypes: Love for the Locals

    26:27 - A Decades-Old Stereotype: When Will it Pass?

    29:26 - The Education Pipeline

    31:48 - Scary Statistics: Where is Everybody?

    33:31 - Show Your Support! What You Can Do to Help

    35:49 - Branching Out: Taking the Mission Further

    37:42 - How to Get in Touch

    38:26 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to Michaels Group!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Doug Ford & Pam Stott

    • Runtime

      40 Minutes, 15 Seconds

    • Air Date

      November 20th, 2023


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  • Episode 42: Lifelong Skills to Pay the Bills from WSWHE BOCES
    Episode 42: Lifelong Skills to Pay the Bills from WSWHE BOCES

    Episode 42: Lifelong Skills to Pay the Bills from WSWHE BOCES

    Episode 42: Lifelong Skills to Pay the Bills from WSWHE BOCES

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Jared Davis and Samuel Stork - teacher and graduate respectively from WSWHE BOCES! They've got programs in dozens of different subjects for kids and adults alike, but one particular strength of their offerings is the Blue Collar menu! Horticulture, heavy equipment operation, welding, automotive - whatever your shade of blue, BOCES has a program for you!

    00:15 - Introductions: Love That Blue Collar Coffee!

    02:06 - Greetings From WSWHE

    03:30 - This Week at BOCES

    05:12 - Well to Do About Welding

    06:13 - Heavy Equipment Training!

    08:34 - A Stork’s Journey: Working Day TWO After Graduation!

    11:42 - A Little Bit of Everything

    13:16 - Is College On the Table?

    14:56 - Class During COVID

    15:53 - What Makes Us Blue?

    18:41 - A Blue Collar Teacher’s Job: Keep Those Kids’ Fingers and Toes Intact!

    20:47 - The BOCES Advantage: Those Skills Last a Lifetime!

    21:53 - No Fringe Benefits for You!

    22:26 - Hundreds of Partners, Hundreds of Opportunities!

    24:09 - Placement Metrics… 50% Job Market, 50% Military!

    25:38 - How to Get In Touch

    26:27 - Is BOCES Right for You?.. YES!

    27:32 - Working Towards the Future: Young People DO Want to Work!

    28:39 - Adult Learning Options

    30:47 - Visit the Website: https://www.wswheboces.org/

    31:27 - CTE Works

    33:24 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to Michaels Group!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Jared Davis & Samuel Stork

    • Runtime

      34 Minutes, 58 Seconds

    • Air Date

      November 13th, 2023


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  • Episode 41: MLB Unveiled - The Perfect Mix for Success in Project Management
    Episode 41: MLB Unveiled - The Perfect Mix for Success in Project Management

    Episode 41: MLB Unveiled - The Perfect Mix for Success in Project Management

    Episode 41: MLB Unveiled - The Perfect Mix for Success in Project Management

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Kelsey Martin and Craig Dittl, two project managers from MLB Construction! They work with all kinds of people, from experienced Boomers to green Gen Zs, and no matter what the project, they keep the team and clients happy and get things done! What's their secret? Listen to this episode and find out!

    00:00:15 - Introductions

    00:02:13 - Who is Kelsey Martin?

    00:04:32 - Who is Craig Dittl?

    00:05:30 - Project Planning: Try to Get it Right Early, But Always Be Ready to Adapt!

    00:06:55 - Project Engineers: All About Tasks!

    00:09:21 - Lawyer, Accountant, and Therapist: All Rolled Into One!

    00:11:06 - Estimation Takes Coordination

    00:13:03 - Budget Boss

    00:14:11 - Discovering MLB: The Right Balance

    00:20:12 - Thriving with Challenges

    00:21:25 - Looking Back: Kelsey’s History

    00:24:30 - Success is Doing What You Say You Will!

    00:26:01 - Directness: Know When (and When Not) To Use It!

    00:30:32 - Different Generations: Same Team

    00:36:06 - Relationships Matter… With EVERYONE You Work With!

    00:38:15 - YouTube Learning: Free and Fast!

    00:40:19 - The Network Queen (and Duchess!)

    00:44:58 - Networking Advice: Prepare Beforehand!

    00:46:13 - A Stink Bug Attacks!

    00:46:36 - Networking Advice: Give Yourself Time!

    00:48:20 - Repeat Business: Take Care of Them, They’ll Take Care of You!

    00:50:03 - Just a Phone Call Away: Email is for Chumps!

    00:53:54 - Don’t Fear the Learning Curve!

    00:55:55 - Is Blue Right for You? Time Management Tips

    00:57:38 - Confidence Comes with Time!

    01:00:43 - Go that Extra Mile!

    01:01:56 - How to Get in Touch: mlbind.com

    01:03:27 - Mass Retirement is Imminent! Take Advantage of It!

    01:05:06 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Kelsey Martin & Craig Dittl

    • Runtime

      1 hour, 5 minutes, 57 seconds

    • Air Date

      November 6th, 2023


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  • Episode 40: Putting Out Fires - Solutions for the Budding Businessman
    Episode 40: Putting Out Fires - Solutions for the Budding Businessman

    Episode 40: Putting Out Fires - Solutions for the Budding Businessman

    Episode 40: Putting Out Fires - Solutions for the Budding Businessman

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson and visionary founder Derek Foster talk to Ben Rieth, co-founder and operator of Daigle Fire Solutions! While his business is literally based around fire prevention, his stories make it clear that every businessman needs to know how to deal with tough situations in the same way! There's plenty of tips for up-and-coming entrepreneurs in this episode!

    00:15 - Introduction: Derek is the Main Host!

    02:52 - What is Daigle Fire Solutions?

    05:35 - Coming to DFS: A Risk Worth Taking

    08:08 - Starting Your Own Business: Ben’s Story

    10:07 - The Boss Steps In: How Involved Should You Be?

    15:04 - Putting the Pro in Processes

    16:59 - Under Pressure: A Fire Solution

    18:08 - A Day in the Life of Ben Rieth

    19:59 - Mistakes Don’t Matter: Reactions and Results Do!

    22:00 - Problem-Solvers: Will You Pull the Cart, or Ride in It?

    23:48 - Make a Decision: Stagnation Kills Everything

    25:09 - A Skilled Juggler Has a Cool Hand… And a Great Team!

    27:32 - The Mental Transition

    30:04 - Acquiring New Clients… Go Talk to People!

    33:33 - Marketing Generates the Leads… YOU Keep Them!

    34:43 - The College Curse: Don’t Doubt Yourself! You CAN Do It!

    37:04 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Ben Rieth

    • Runtime

      39 Minutes, 8 Seconds

    • Air Date

      October 23rd, 2023


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  • Episode 39: Inspect & Protect - Morgan's One-Man Operation
    Episode 39: Inspect & Protect - Morgan's One-Man Operation

    Episode 39: Inspect & Protect - Morgan's One-Man Operation

    Episode 39: Inspect & Protect - Morgan's One-Man Operation

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Morgan Pellitteri, the man behind TechSmart Inspections! While he worked white collar and with other employees in the past, Morgan rededicated himself to a new calling - running an entire home inspection operation himself! What made him make the change? How has he achieved success? Listen to this episode and find out!

    00:15 - Off-Tangent

    00:49 - Show Begins: Mike Needs His Sleep!

    02:35 - An Introduction to Morgan Pellitteri

    03:54 - From Corporate to Crepes to Inspection

    07:55 - The Sales Component

    09:37 - Call Morgan, Maybe?

    11:04 - Starting Small: It’s All About Communication!

    13:05 - The Next Steps: Cold-Calling Strategies

    16:12 - You’re Not for Everybody: A Story About Drawing the Line

    21:04 - The Real Estate Boom… When Will it End?

    23:14 - A One-Man Operation

    25:55 - A Day in the Life

    27:27 - One-Note Arnold

    28:16 - Exercise and Meditation: The Benefits of Sober Living

    29:46 - Work to Live

    31:15 - The Next Generation: Shoutout to Edon, Jawid, Jonathan and Tim!

    33:56 - Inspect = Protect

    36:37 - Morgan’s Advice: Keep Learning!

    38:47 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Morgan Pellitteri

    • Runtime

      41 Minutes, 11 Seconds

    • Air Date

      October 16th, 2023


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  • Episode 38: Heartbreak, Heroes, and the HVCC Community
    Episode 38: Heartbreak, Heroes, and the HVCC Community

    Episode 38: Heartbreak, Heroes, and the HVCC Community

    Episode 38: Heartbreak, Heroes, and the HVCC Community

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview four students at the Blue Collar College - Tim, Jonathan, Jawid and Edon! Their incredible stories showcase the strength of the Blue Collar spirit - between preserving heritage, community values, working hard to chase those dreams, and even acts of genuine heroism, the future for the next generation of Blue Collar workers is looking bright!

    00:15 - Be Careful with Gas Fires!

    01:32 - Live from the Welding Room!

    03:05 - Introductions: We’ve Got a Full Room!

    08:46 - Honda Gang!

    09:11 - Time Keeps on Slippin’

    10:11 - Chasing the Dream

    14:56 - Restoration Takes Dedication!

    16:12 - Honda Gang Strikes Again!

    17:23 - Blue Collar Gives Back

    19:31 - Escaping a Fire… And Saving a Family!

    24:54 - No Stranger to Danger

    26:41 - An Incredible Community

    27:47 - Gaining Experience, and Seeing Opportunity

    31:28 - Security and Opportunity: Blue Collar’s Where It’s At!

    35:42 - Attracting Talent: Show Some Support, and Respect!

    38:50 - Owning a Shop Isn’t for Everyone… But What a Ride!

    41:38 - A Creative Battering Ram to the Experience Wall

    43:45 - Bringing the Modern and the Classic Together

    47:44 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Tim, Jonathan, Jawid, & Edon

    • Runtime

      49 Minutes, 53 Seconds

    • Air Date

      October 9th, 2023


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  • Episode 37: Grasshopper Heating & Cooling: Handling Explosive Growth in a Short Time
    Episode 37: Grasshopper Heating & Cooling: Handling Explosive Growth in a Short Time

    Episode 37: Grasshopper Heating & Cooling: Handling Explosive Growth in a Short Time

    Episode 37: Grasshopper Heating & Cooling: Handling Explosive Growth in a Short Time

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson and visionary founder Derek Foster interview three Blue Collar superstars - Amanda Triolo, Brian Correll, and Luke Scarcelli of Grasshopper Heating & Cooling! Grasshopper has been all the buzz - or rather, chirp - on the scene lately as their marvelous marketing, terrific teamwork and stellar service take the community by storm! What's the secret to their raid growth and success? We have some of the answers for you here in this episode!

    01:00 - Shoutout to Michaels Group: And Our Mission

    02:29 - Introductions: The Grasshopper Team

    06:58 - A Grasshopper Hops Forward

    12:57 - A Sudden Swarm of Happy Hoppers

    13:57 - Glory Be to Gary Grasshopper

    14:49 - Business Ain’t for Babies!

    17:18 - Carving Through COVID

    19:23 - Everything Has a Solution!

    20:24 - Keep Calm and Carry On

    22:33 - Cultivating Culture and Valuing Values

    29:47 - Inform and Educate: Do No Disservice

    31:39 - Why Does It Matter? Sharing a Vision

    34:22 - The Vision Board: Pipe the Perspective

    35:57 - Employee-Focus Isn’t Just for Higher-Ups!

    37:30 - Started from the Bottom… Now We’re Here

    38:55 - Maintaining Morale

    43:02 - Game Time

    47:20 - Shoutout to Dean Leber: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanmleber/

    47:55 - Throttled Marketing

    51:25 - Keep Those Customers!

    54:45 - GrassLARPer

    56:06 - How to Get in Touch: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    56:41 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Amanda Triolo, Brian Correll, & Luke Scarcelli

    • Runtime

      57 Minutes, 32 Seconds

    • Air Date

      September 12th, 2023


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  • Episode 36: Jim Dawsey - Decades of Trials and Triumphs
    Episode 36: Jim Dawsey - Decades of Trials and Triumphs

    Episode 36: Jim Dawsey - Decades of Trials and Triumphs

    Episode 36: Jim Dawsey - Decades of Trials and Triumphs

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson and visionary founder Derek Foster interview Jim Dawsey, the President of MLB Construction Services, LLC! Jim's come a long way in his life, from minimum-wage drudgery in a February rainstorm to running a premier multi-million dollar company! He learned no small amount of methods, strategies and secrets along the way... And if you listen to this episode, you just might learn a few for yourself!

    00:15 - Blue Collar Insider: Learning from Mistakes

    01:48 - The Show Begins

    02:57 - An Introduction to Jim Dawsey and the World of Construction

    05:13 - A History You Can Count On: Jim’s Journey

    09:39 - Taking the Next Step

    11:33 - The Role Sharpens: Finding the Niche

    13:11 - Sawing for Saratoga, and Driving With No Hands

    14:27 - Learning on the Job: Experts Have a Lot to Give!

    15:26 - Transitions: One Successful, One Not

    18:52 - My Old Man

    20:05 - Take it from Jim: Relationships are EVERYTHING!

    23:38 - What’s Hot and What’s Not

    25:26 - Jim’s Biggest Challenge: Adapting to the Economy

    27:59 - Don’t Fly Out of Albany for a While!

    28:51 - Forecasting and Planning

    30:56 - Jim’s Biggest Mistake: Working with a Developer

    35:11 - Chloe Speaks! And the Secret to Jim’s Success

    37:05 - The Next Ownership Team

    38:26 - What Role Does College Play?

    39:58 - A Day in the Life of Jim Dawsey… Starts at 4:00 AM!

    41:27 - A Coffee Conversation

    43:57 - Jim’s on Drums, Mike’s Son’s on Guitar… This Editor’s on Bass! The Blue Collar Band

    45:31 - Jim’s Key Piece of Advice: Through the Ups and Downs, Never Lose Your Passion!

    48:37 - How to Get in Touch: Social Media’s the Way!

    49:26 - Closing Remarks: Thanks for the Gift Bags!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Jim Dawsey

    • Runtime

      51 Minutes, 29 Seconds

    • Air Date

      August 14th, 2023


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  • Episode 35: Juan, Jason & Matt (Hunt Companies, Inc.)
    Episode 35: Juan, Jason & Matt (Hunt Companies, Inc.)

    Episode 35: Juan, Jason & Matt (Hunt Companies, Inc.)

    Episode 35: Juan, Jason & Matt (Hunt Companies, Inc.)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson and visionary founder Derek Foster interview the triple threat team of Juan, Jason, and Matt from Argyle's Hunt Companies! They've handled construction for some major players locally, but they didn't just stumble into the trust of those big league clients - they earned it! Have a listen to this episode and find out how!
     

    01:26 - An Introduction to Hunt Companies

    03:45 - The Beginning: McDonald’s and You

    06:06 - Director of Operations: Welcome to Argyle

    08:02 - Matt: The Future

    09:06 - Commercial vs. Residential Work

    11:14 - The Record is Seven!

    13:15 - Small, Focused Teams: The Ups and Downs of COVID

    16:39 - Onboarding: A Constant Process (Shoutout to BOCES!)

    19:14 - Experience Ain’t Cheap! Don’t Be Afraid to Train!

    22:15 - Cultivating Culture

    24:41 - Trickle-Down Culture: It Starts at the Top!

    28:12 - Showing Support

    30:16 - Kinks in the Supply Chain… Won’t Get Better Anytime Soon!

    34:42 - Why Haven’t Costs Gone Back Down?

    38:48 - Good Relationships… Are Based on Trust!

    41:37 - Multi-Layered Profit-Earning: Waste Not!

    43:26 - Advice to the Next Generation: Find Out What You Like to Do!

    47:27 - How to Get in Touch

    49:04 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Juan, Jason & Matt

    • Runtime

      50 Minutes, 8 Seconds

    • Air Date

      August 7th, 2023


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  • Episode 34: Mike McGrath (1-800-Paint-Job)
    Episode 34: Mike McGrath (1-800-Paint-Job)

    Episode 34: Mike McGrath (1-800-Paint-Job)

    Episode 34: Mike McGrath (1-800-Paint-Job)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson and visionary founder Derek Foster interview Mike McGrath, the head honcho at 1-800-Paint-Job! Mike overcame plenty of struggles to get where he is, and faces more every day... But no challenge is too great for a Blue Collar worker! Hear about his struggles and successes here, in this stellar episode!

    This episode was recorded on-location at The Eden Center for Integrative Care: https://www.theedencarecenter.com/

    00:15 - Introduction

    02:15 - The Turning Point

    03:44 - A Portrait of the Future

    06:01 - A Changing Market

    08:25 - The Equipment Plan: No Plan!

    10:04 - Finding Help: Quality over Quantity, Build a Culture!

    13:07 - Billing Blues: Email’s Got Issues!

    15:45 - The Biggest Challenge: Recruiting!

    18:41 - Do You Have What it Takes? Coping with Failure

    21:03 - Help Comes to Those Who Ask… Reach Out, Make Friends!

    25:30 - From Plebeian to Paint-Master

    26:59 - There’s More to Business Than the Sale

    27:46 - Self-Education is INCREDIBLY EASY Now… So Do It!

    29:17 - The Mike McGrath Story: Overcoming Addiction and Achieving Success

    32:22 - Discipline… The Most Valuable Skill of All

    34:23 - The Other Half: Making Hard Decisions

    35:16 - You’ve Got to De-Stress!.. Healthily

    36:30 - McGrath in the Morning: Routing Out the Routines

    37:48 - Awesome Audiobooks

    40:36 - Money vs. Time: Time is ALWAYS More Important!

    42:10 - Wise is the Man With the Home Library

    44:02 - The 1-800-Paint-Job Value

    45:08 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to The Eden Center and Michaels Group!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Mike McGrath

    • Runtime

      47 Minutes, 2 Seconds

    • Air Date

      July 31st, 2023


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  • Episode 33: Taylor Hopeck (Witt Construction, Inc.)
    Episode 33: Taylor Hopeck (Witt Construction, Inc.)

    Episode 33: Taylor Hopeck (Witt Construction, Inc.)

    Episode 33: Taylor Hopeck (Witt Construction, Inc.)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike and Derek interview Taylor Hopeck, the Client Coordinator at Witt Construction! Her story perfectly showcases that sometimes, you choose the Blue Collar life... And sometimes, it chooses you!
     

    00:15 - Introduction and Shoutouts

    03:06 - Who is Taylor Hopeck?

    04:48 - Supply Chain? More Like Supply Pain!

    05:24 - Team and Client Coordination: How Taylor Handles It…

    07:34 - … And How Derek Handles It

    09:15 - Finding a Home in Home-Building

    12:48 - Social Media: A Powerful Tool!

    14:55 - A Day in the Life of Taylor Hopeck

    16:43 - Field Experience is SO Important!

    17:24 - From Being Green to Making Green

    19:38 - Taylor’s Advice: It Never Hurts to Try! Knowledge is Power!

    22:20 - Workforce Development: What Witt’s Working On

    25:23 - When Email Becomes Snail Mail

    27:57 - When Do You Need Taylor?.. Right Away!

    32:33 - Keeping Your Free Time Free

    34:53 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Taylor Hopeck

    • Runtime

      36 Minutes, 20 Seconds

    • Air Date

      July 10th, 2023


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  • Episode 31: Bruce Hoffmann (WSWHE BOCES)
    Episode 31: Bruce Hoffmann (WSWHE BOCES)

    Episode 31: Bruce Hoffmann (WSWHE BOCES)

    Episode 31: Bruce Hoffmann (WSWHE BOCES)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, Mike and Derek interview Bruce Hoffmann, the Work-Based Learning & Placement Coorindator at WSWHE BOCES! We and our kids have all had those classes that we just didn't want to take and asked the question "Why do I have to learn Trigonometry?" Bruce works hard to make sure his classes are the exact opposite - everything students learn from BOCES has a specific and real purpose! Give this episode a listen and find out just what kind of value BOCES has - not just for your kids, but also for you!
     

    00:15 - Introduction

    01:38 - What Does Bruce Hoffmann Do at BOCES?

    05:15 - Workforce, Workforce, Workforce!

    06:11 - Hands-On Learning

    08:40 - What Happened to Wood & Metal Shop? Mike’s Experience

    12:02 - Shoutout to Dr. Turina Parker!

    12:44 - The BOCES Stigma: Moving Past It

    14:44 - The Intern

    16:54 - From BOCES to Bank: Placement Opportunities

    19:12 - Getting Started with BOCES

    23:38 - Setting Kids Up for Success: The BOCES Difference

    25:15 - Running Out of Room

    27:20 - Funding the Adult Programs

    28:35 - Shoutout to Michaels Group, and All of Our Sponsors!

    29:43 - Sponsoring BOCES Helps So Much, Too!

    31:02 - BOCES Graduation: What it Looks Like

    32:09 - Working with Home-Schoolers

    33:07 - Reaching Students: How BCS Plans to Help

    35:57 - How You Can Help

    38:01 - The Typical Day of a BOCES Student

    39:29 - Why Do I Need to Learn Trigonometry?

    41:16 - Women in the Trades: BOCES’ Latest Initiative

    42:46 - How to Get in Touch

    44:23 - Drop Us Some Questions and Comments! This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Bruce Hoffmann

    • Runtime

      45 Minutes, 34 Seconds

    • Air Date

      June 6th, 2023


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  • Episode 30: Terry Hubbard (Peak Environmental)
    Episode 30: Terry Hubbard (Peak Environmental)

    Episode 30: Terry Hubbard (Peak Environmental)

    Episode 30: Terry Hubbard (Peak Environmental)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our visionary founder Derek Foster interviews Terry Hubbard, the founder, CEO and Sales Manager at Peak Environmental: Landscape Construction & Management Services! Terry's been working in his field since he was only 16 years old, and has grown his business to a multi-team unit with 25 employees, and room for more! How did he do it? What practices have led to his success? Derek learns the answers here, in this stellar episode!
     

    00:15 - Introduction: Old Mike Nelson’s On the Farm!

    00:46 - A Brief History of Terry Hubbard: Starting His Business at… 16?!

    03:03 - The Next Step: Straight Out of School

    04:34 - When it All Clicks

    08:48 - Building a Solid Footing

    10:20 - Overcoming Challenges

    13:21 - Six Distinct Crews, 25 Employees!

    15:52 - Shoutout to Luke Michaels and the Michaels Group!

    16:19 - Training the New Blood: New Tools and New Tricks

    19:42 - The Value of Proper Onboarding

    21:46 - If You’re Not Training Your Employees… You’re Still Paying For It!

    23:01 - Making Business a Game… Makes Profits Consistent, and Employees Dedicated!

    28:17 - Where’s the Work Ethic?.. It’s Right There! Respect Your Team, and They’ll Work Hard For You!

    30:53 - The Value of College… It’s Right for Some, But Not All!

    32:00 - You ARE Good Enough!

    33:08 - A Day in the Life of Terry Hubbard

    35:14 - Meditation and Cryotherapy

    36:01 - Terry’s Key Piece of Advice: Hire People Who Are Better Than You!

    39:21 - Admitting You’re Not the Right Person for the Job

    41:18 - Terry’s Day-to-Day Role: Sales Manager… For Now

    43:13 - The Traction Model

    45:31 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewer

      Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Terry Hubbard

    • Runtime

      46 Minutes, 48 Seconds

    • Air Date

      May 22nd, 2023


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  • Episode 29: Vince LaTerra (Bonacio Construction Inc.)
    Episode 29: Vince LaTerra (Bonacio Construction Inc.)

    Episode 29: Vince LaTerra (Bonacio Construction Inc.)

    Episode 29: Vince LaTerra (Bonacio Construction Inc.)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster have a chat with Vince LaTerra, the Project Manager at Bonacio Construction! If you live in Saratoga, you've heard of these guys, and there's a lot of advice this successful businessman has to offer in this episode! What is it? You'll have to listen to find out!
     

    00:15 - Introduction: A Friendly Update

    01:26 - Training Babies to Sleep

    02:36 - Mike’s Son Locks Him Out

    04:20 - It’s Time for the Show - With Vince LaTerra, Project Manager!

    06:37 - 12 Jobs at Once?!

    07:23 - Specialized Software? No Way! Notebook and Pencil!

    09:08 - Determining Priorities

    10:36 - Everything is a Problem

    13:13 - Antics in the Attic

    15:32 - Why Construction?

    17:12 - Doing Right by Retention

    19:18 - Getting the Train Back on Track

    21:34 - The Resources You Should Have!

    23:33 - Sourcing Staff

    26:31 - The Bonacio Path: From Greenhorn to Construction Champ

    28:15 - The Traits to Look For

    30:13 - The Generation War

    31:55 - Learning From the (Noisy) Old Guard… And Your Mistakes!

    36:17 - Vince’s Secret to Success: Consistency!

    37:18 - Manager and Salesman: Can the Roles Coexist?

    39:00 - The 40 Under 40 Award, and the Shaken & Stirred Event

    41:35 - Vince’s One Key Piece of Advice: Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses!

    42:50 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Vince LaTerra

    • Runtime

      44 Minutes, 48 Seconds

    • Air Date

      May 15th, 2023


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  • Episode 28: Ivan Bell (IBS Septic & Drain)
    Episode 28: Ivan Bell (IBS Septic & Drain)

    Episode 28: Ivan Bell (IBS Septic & Drain)

    Episode 28: Ivan Bell (IBS Septic & Drain)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Ivan Bell, the main man behind IBS Septic & Drain! He's got a lot to say about balancing home life and family life, giving 110%... And, most importantly, loving what you do!

    00:15 - Introduction: The Rise of Ivan Bell

    01:30 - Ivan’s Advice: Just Go Forward! Don’t Give Up and Carve Your Own Path!

    02:42 - Seizing an Opportunity: Every Day is a (Fun) Battle!

    04:09 - I Dig It, Man!

    06:49 - Making the Change: From a One-Man Show to 20 Employees!

    09:15 - Ivan’s Biggest Challenge: Balancing Work and Family

    10:24 - The Family Business

    12:52 - The Money Will Come

    15:56 - When is it Time to Let Others Pick Up Some Slack?

    18:24 - The Secret to Success: Love What You Do!

    19:13 - Everything to Everyone… Great Album, But Not a Great Life Strategy!

    22:54 - Shoutout to Warren Tire!

    25:00 - Adversity Absolutely WILL Come! Be Ready!

    26:39 - Respecting Your Employees is Important!

    27:45 - Retirement? No Way!

    29:48 - Say I’m the Man… What’s the Plan?

    31:06 - Keep Your Heart in it… And Keep Going!

    32:08 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewer

      Michael Nelson

    • Guest

      Ivan Bell

    • Runtime

      33 Minutes, 51 Seconds

    • Air Date

      May 8th, 2023


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  • Episode 27: Jim Countryman (HVCC)
    Episode 27: Jim Countryman (HVCC)

    Episode 27: Jim Countryman (HVCC)

    Episode 27: Jim Countryman (HVCC)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Jim Countryman - the assistant professor of Applied Technologies at Hudson Valley Community College; AKA, The Blue Collar College! We know, we know - we've often said college isn't for everybody... But with amazing programs like Jim's, you can learn Blue Collar skills from start to finish - like automotive mechanics, aviation mechanics, HVAC, electrical engineering, and much, much more! Get the inside scoop on HVCC's stellar, affordable offerings for any and all students here, in this informative episode!
     
    00:15 - Introduction: Who We Are, and What We Do
    01:12 - Shoutout to Matthew Perry!
    02:27 - An Introduction to Jim Countryman
    05:08 - HVCC’s Amazing Programs: Aviation & Auto Mechanics, HVAC, Electrical Construction, and More!
    06:13 - Enrollment is Through the Roof! How Wait-Listing Works
    08:57 - A Complete Associate’s Degree… For $10,000?! And it Buys You so Much More!
    12:00 - The All-or-Nothing Mentality… Time Management is a Bigger Challenge Than You Might Think!
    14:46 - Trades Take Skill and Dedication: It’s Not an Easy, Free Ride!
    16:31 - From Zero to Hero: No Prerequisites Required! You Don’t Even Need to Know What a Ratchet is!
    18:30 - Determining Mechanical Ability… Surprises Galore!
    20:34 - Metal Shop: A Thing of the Past? How STEM Made Trades-Learning Harder to Access
    23:53 - Is The Blue Collar College Right for You? Don’t be Afraid to Try!
    27:14 - Following the Path to Success… Time Flies, Put in Your 100%!
    29:09 - Partnering With Local Employers: 100% Job Placement?!
    33:33 - It’s Not About THE Trade… It’s About A Trade!
    36:03 - Stigmas are Human Nature… But Opportunity is Not Exclusive to One Side! Do Your Homework!
    38:25 - The Evolution of Trades Skills: So Much is Computerized Now!
    39:29 - Got my Two-Year Degree… What’s Next?
    42:31 - 120 Hours of Instruction: 20 Hours of Lectures, 100 Hours of Hands-On Practice!
    44:23 - Perception is Not Necessarily Reality… We All Make Mistakes!
    46:01 - Jim’s Key Piece of Advice: Talk With Experienced People!
    47:26 - Crawling Out From Under the Social Media Rock: Have Real Conversations!
    49:28 - How to Get in Touch With The Blue Collar College
    51:15 - Closing Remarks

    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Jim Countryman Jr.

    • Runtime

      52 minutes, 23 seconds

    • Air Date

      April 24th, 2022


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  • Episode 26: Paul Lambert (Bonacio Construction)
    Episode 26: Paul Lambert (Bonacio Construction)

    Episode 26: Paul Lambert (Bonacio Construction)

    Episode 26: Paul Lambert (Bonacio Construction)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast! 
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Paul Lambert, the Project Manager at Bonacio Construction! If you're from Saratoga Springs or Rome, New York, you know these guys - but if not, don't worry! We'll fill you in on everything you need to know about Bonacio Construction and Paul Lambert here, in this stellar episode!

    00:15 - Introduction

    01:35 - Who is Paul Lambert?

    02:40 - What is Bonacio Construction? Where are They Based?

    03:52 - What Does Bonacio Do?

    07:33 - What’s Sonny Bonacio Like?

    09:36 - How Paul Got his Start in the Trades

    10:48 - Shoutout to Luke Michaels!

    12:12 - Climbing the Ladder

    16:14 - Problem-Solving: Every Blue Collar Job is This!

    17:13 - Bonacio’s Structure and Systems… Are Relatively New!

    20:10 - Tracking Time

    21:42 - Hiring: Back in the Day vs. Now… Expectations and Priorities Have Changed!

    24:10 - Two Kinds of People: Hard Workers, We Want You!

    28:31 - Working Your Way Up… It’s Hard to be Patient Nowadays!

    30:48 - Dangling the Carrot… Looking Ahead, Giving Motivation

    34:31 - Workforce Development: School’s Not For Everyone, Get Out There and Work!

    37:09 - Keep a Low Barrier to Entry: Train the New Workforce!

    39:15 - From Your Best Employee to Your Best Subcontractor

    41:19 - Retaining Your Workers

    43:52 - Paul’s Secret to Success: Never Stop Climbing the Ladder! Keep Setting Goals!

    46:00 - Looking at the Calendar

    48:12 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Paul Lambert

    • Runtime

      49 Minutes, 57 Seconds

    • Air Date

      April 17th, 2023


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  • Episode 25: Dustin Manny (Manny Topsoil and Gravel)
    Episode 25: Dustin Manny (Manny Topsoil and Gravel)

    Episode 25: Dustin Manny (Manny Topsoil and Gravel)

    Episode 25: Dustin Manny (Manny Topsoil and Gravel)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!


    In this episode, our Host Mike Nelson and Visionary Founder Derek Foster interview Dustin Manny, the main man behind Manny Topsoil and Gravel! Dustin is all about working hard and doing the job right, and he tells us all about his methods, beliefs and styles right here in this episode!
     

    00:15 - Hello, Newspaper Truck! And a Snag in the Brewery

    03:08 - There’s Always an Issue…

    04:18 - Welcome, Dustin!.. Finally!

    06:08 - An Introduction to Dustin Manny

    09:07 - Hard Work is Easier When You’re Working for Yourself!

    11:37 - Making the Jump to Self-Employment

    15:43 - Does the Economy and Real Estate Market Affect Dustin’s Business?.. NO!

    17:05 - The Challenges of Growth: Trucks Ain’t Cheap!

    21:03 - A Two-Employee Business… Two is Plenty!

    22:36 - Vacation, Have to Get Away… Slows Down Business, Though!

    24:30 - From One Guy in a Truck to a Massive Company…

    25:30 - … If You Can Get a Truck!

    26:39 - Dustin’s Secret to Success: Hard Work!

    28:57 - Working Blue Collar, You Don’t Need a Workout Regimen!

    29:51 - Hey, Shit Happens!

    33:29 - Time With the Kids… Blue Collar’s Big Downside

    36:04 - Mike’s Kids Smash his Televisions

    37:17 - College Isn’t for Everyone! There’s so Much Opportunity in Blue Collar Work!

    42:09 - Routine? Nah! Up, Eat, and Go!

    43:14 - Mike Nelson, (Semi) Professional Podcaster

    44:01 - Dustin’s Marketing Secret: Diversify, Try New Things!

    45:15 - Turn Off Your Damned Phone!

    46:41 - What’s Hot? CDL Drivers, and Hard Workers of All Kinds!

    48:32 - Dustin’s Key Piece of Advice: Pick Your Niche, and Master it!

    49:49 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Dustin Manny

    • Runtime

      51 Minutes, 35 Seconds

    • Air Date

      March 15th, 2023


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  • Episode 24: Ryan van Amburgh (Career Jam)
    Episode 24: Ryan van Amburgh (Career Jam)

    Episode 24: Ryan van Amburgh (Career Jam)

    Episode 24: Ryan van Amburgh (Career Jam)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
     
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster talk to Ryan van Amburgh, the co-founder of Career Jam! His organization helps youths realize their potential and find the career pathways that are right for them, along with fostering development of the Blue Collar labor force and helping local companies find their next generation of workers!

    00:16 - Introduction
    01:27 - What is Career Jam?
    03:18 - Kids Entering the Trades
    07:19 - Shoutout to RASP Incorporated and LISSMAC!
    10:03 - What Does the Labor Force Look Like?
    13:16 - Having a Hand in Workforce Development
    15:30 - The Role of Our Schools in Workforce Development
    20:56 - Career Pathways: Paving the Way
    25:56 - Why is Workforce Development so Splintered Between Groups?
    30:19 - The Labor Pinch… Ryan Saw it Coming!
    33:39 - Upcoming Career Jam Events
    36:33 - How Can My Business Support Career Jam?
    39:16 - Impressing Visitors is So Rewarding!
    44:42 - Ryan’s #1 Hiring Tip: Collaborate at the Sources!
    46:14 - Career Jam 2054: What’s Next?
    47:42 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch
    50:24 - Send Your Questions to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Ryan van Amburgh

    • Runtime

       51 Minutes, 17 Seconds

    • Air Date

      February 15th, 2023


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  • Episode 23: Tom Shanley (Daigle Cleaning Systems of Westchester)
    Episode 23: Tom Shanley (Daigle Cleaning Systems of Westchester)

    Episode 23: Tom Shanley (Daigle Cleaning Systems of Westchester)

    Episode 23: Tom Shanley (Daigle Cleaning Systems of Westchester)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!  
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Tom Shanley, a Daigle Cleaning Systems franchisee from Westchester, New York! They discuss the many benefits of franchising - including streamlined processes, scalable goalsetting, and more! Take a listen and find out how both Derek and Tom made Daigle Cleaning Systems great!
     

    00:15 - Introduction

    01:20 - The Blue Collar Timeline: From Side Hustle to Franchise

    06:46 - Introducing… Tom Shanley!

    09:33 - Only One Full-Time Job and a Side Hustle? LAZY!

    11:21 - The Power of a Franchise

    13:35 - The DOS

    14:55 - Picking a Cleaning Franchise… Daigle Was the Best!

    16:25 - Why Franchise?..

    19:19 - … To Benefit From the Experience of Others!

    21:20 - Switching to Daigle: Low Buy-In, High Scalability!

    24:29 - Sales vs. Operations: Which Background is More Important?

    27:10 - Goal For Next Year: Double the Revenue!

    29:05 - Kitchens are Filthy! Hood Cleaning is Necessary!

    30:32 - Daily Routines: Plan Your Time as Efficiently as You Can!

    32:00 - Tom’s One Key Piece of Advice: Do a Great Job!

    33:40 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Tom Shanley

    • Runtime

      35 Minutes, 35 Seconds

    • Air Date

      January 9th, 2023


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  • Episode 22: Brad Lewis (Lewis Lawn Care & Masonry)
    Episode 22: Brad Lewis (Lewis Lawn Care & Masonry)

    Episode 22: Brad Lewis (Lewis Lawn Care & Masonry)

    Episode 22: Brad Lewis (Lewis Lawn Care & Masonry)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
     
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Brad Lewis, the hard-working owner of Lewis Lawn Care & Masonry! He started at a very young age without even having a car to take him between clients; but he grew his "side hustle" into a successful business with hard work and dedication! Take a listen and find out how!
     

    00:00:15 - Introduction: Marketing with “Money” Mike Nelson

    00:02:25 - A Brief Overview of Brad Lewis: Master Mason, Handy Hardscaper!

    00:04:42 - Starting Young: Want a New Skateboard? Get Mowin’!

    00:07:04 - Learning From (and Teaching) Sub-Contractors… Way up High!

    00:08:52 - Securing Equipment… Without a Car!

    00:11:45 - Working Within Walking Distance

    00:13:24 - Running the Mile

    00:15:46 - Pathetic Pay Entering White Collar… Screw It! Blue All the Way!

    00:18:22 - Tutoring Economics… But Teaching? No Way! Brad’s a Machine!

    00:20:30 - Sleep is for the WEAK! Work, Learn, and Work Some More!

    00:23:14 - Back to the Present: Home and Apartment Rehabbing with the Crew

    00:26:59 - Doing Nothing?.. No Way! FIRE Movement Counter-Intuitive?

    00:31:30 - Restoring Busted-Up Homes: “Be a Good Steward”

    00:34:45 - Don’t Be Afraid of Your Employees Spreading Their Wings - Support It!

    00:40:01 - Finding Customers: The Single Most Important Part of Business!

    00:44:12 - The Future… Let it Come! You Can’t Plan For the Unknown!

    00:46:27 - Lawnwork?.. Not Worth It! Get a Goat!

    00:50:20 - “Foster Freedom”: Value Your Workers and Their Families!

    00:53:17 - Brad’s #1 Piece of Advice: Spread Your Work Out, Don’t Try to “Burn a Year”!

    00:56:40 - The 5:30 AM Riser: Get Emails Out of the Way and Plan Your Day!

    00:58:20 - Closing Remarks: Masonry, Not Masonary! This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Brad Lewis

    • Runtime

      1 Hour, 51 Seconds

    • Air Date

      December 13th, 2022


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  • Episode 21: Mark Miller (Performance Industrial)

    Episode 21: Mark Miller (Performance Industrial)

    Episode 21: Mark Miller (Performance Industrial)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!


    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Mark Miller - his old boss, and the main man behind Performance Industrial! They talk about the struggles early businesses face and how they overcame them, Mark's well-studied practices and methods, and even how Mark overcame a complete relabeling and brand change! You won't want to miss this informative episode!
     
     
     

    00:16 - Introduction

    00:48 - A Brief History of Mark Miller: Trucking Right Out of High School!

    03:51 - Getting Dirty with Americlean: You’ve Got to Have a Plan!

    04:56 - The E-Myth: A Revelation! Plan it Smart and the Stress Melts Away!

    09:08 - Is Consulting Worth It? Yes - If You Really Learn From It!

    12:03 - There’s So Much to Learn: So Learn the Right Stuff!

    13:57 - Mike’s Claim to Fame: Being Fired by Mark?!

    16:27 - Are You Meant to Work For Someone Else? Find Out!

    17:56 - Hiring? Don’t Use Indeed - Go to Sandy’s Clam Bar!

    18:33 - From Americlean to Performance Industrial: Why the Rebrand?

    20:22 - Every Company is a Performance: From Front Stage to Back!

    22:34 - Shifting Focus: What to Consider

    26:12 - Building a Company: All About Personal Communication, Before AND After the Internet!

    29:08 - Marketing is Powerful… But to a Greenhorn, Selling is So Much More!

    31:08 - The Golden Phrase: Make it Happen!

    33:42 - The Button: “I’ll Make it Happen!”

    34:46 - Mark’s Biggest Challenge… Himself! If You Don’t Become Better, You Become Bitter!

    36:13 - Mark’s Biggest Mistake: Hiring the Wrong People! Make Choices Carefully, At Work and at Home!

    37:37 - Work Ethic: It’s Easy to Criticize, But Everyone is Motivated Differently!

    41:24 - Things Have Changed… But For the Better! There’s Nothing Wrong With Safety and Life Balance!

    41:59 - The Value of College: Very Dependent! Think it Over First!

    43:52 - School Teaches You the Core Skills… But Nothing About Entrepreneurship or Salesmanship!

    45:31 - Not Going to College Doesn’t Mean Burger-Flipping! Make Your Own Success!

    47:23 - Mark’s Key Piece of Advice: Connect With Other Business Owners! Success Leaves Clues!

    50:01 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewer

      Mike Nelson

    • Guest

      Mark Miller

    • Runtime

      53 Minutes, 20 Seconds

    • Air Date

      November 22nd, 2022


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  • Episode 20: Luke Michaels (Michaels Group Homes)

    Episode 20: Luke Michaels (Michaels Group Homes)

    Episode 20: Luke Michaels (Michaels Group Homes)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!


    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Luke Michaels, the main man behind Michaels Group Homes! His third-generation business has undergone a lot of trials and changes throughout the years, and Derek and Mike can definitely relate - find out just what they went through by giving this episode a listen!
     
     

    00:16 - Introduction

    02:51 - Three Generations of Michaels Group Homes!

    06:03 - When Life Gives You Lemons…

    06:51 - Whiny Moments: Don’t Ever Let Monday Ruin Your Sunday!

    08:44 - Seizing an Opportunity: Nothing Wrong With It!

    11:21 - Living Up to the Legacy… Best Not to Think About It!

    13:44 - Stick to the Process; But Update It When Necessary!

    17:00 - Applying Economics to Homebuilding

    19:38 - Luke’s Biggest Challenge: Dealing With the Development Red Tape!

    23:02 - Some Excellent Advice: If You Can, Work for Yourself!

    28:01 - Preparing For the Market Stabilization

    31:03 - Youth Opportunities

    36:28 - Only Let Your Organization Grow as Big as You Can Keep it Running Smoothly!

    40:45 - Is College Right For You? Yes: IF You Have a Plan!

    43:04 - Living With a Psychologist

    43:46 - Routines Help Keep You Grounded: Mike Loves Podcasts!

    46:35 - Luke’s Favorite Podcasts: Joe Rogan, and Doughboys!

    47:31 - Our Goal: To Reach, Connect and Aid Current and Future Tradespeople!

    49:19 - Tech Jobs: Sexy, But Not Necessarily Secure! Trades Can Be Recession-Proof!

    51:45 - There’s a Lot of Opportunity Locally! No Inattentive National Builders Here!

    52:33 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Luke Michaels

    • Runtime

      54 Minutes, 23 Seconds

    • Air Date

      November 18th 2022


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  • Episode 19: Anthony Caruso (Caruso Builders)

    Episode 19: Anthony Caruso (Caruso Builders)

    Episode 19: Anthony Caruso (Caruso Builders)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Anthony Caruso, the main man behind Caruso Builders of New York! They discuss Anthony's start at 20 years of age, how he grew his business to work on multi-million dollar homes, how his company dealt with the COVID crisis and the labor shortage, and more in this in-depth episode!
     
     
    Anthony Caruso - Caruso Home Builders
    00:16 - Introduction
    00:56 - A Brief History of Anthony Caruso and Caruso Builders
    05:09 - Before Construction: When it Was Time to Go Blue
    08:56 - Starting Blue at 20: Blue and Green!
    09:54 - Employees and Subcontractors: Who Does Which Job?
    11:37 - What Goes Into a Three-Million Dollar Home: Come Visit the Blue Collar Mansion!
    14:18 - Bunker-Buildin’: Hope For the Best, But Prepare For the Worst!
    16:18 - The COVID Hurdle: Changed Many Lives, For Better or Worse!
    18:15 - Expanding Slowly, But Surely
    21:17 - Speculating Land: A Not-Often-Offered Advantage that Caruso Builders Offers!
    22:28 - Scoping Out Customers: You Shouldn’t Do Business With Everyone!
    25:39 - Tradesman Shortages… May Only Get Worse! Those Who Remain Will Control the Market!
    28:12 - Average Ages: The Blue-Collar Market is Strongest in the 40s and 50s!
    30:14 - The Caruso Secret: No Hesitation! No Surrender!
    32:13 - Routines & Obligations: Not Much Free Time!
    34:48 - What Time is Okay to Text? “Scheduled Send” is a Fantastic Innovation for Night Owls and Early Birds!
    36:58 - Editor’s Note: I Can Verify That He Really Does Do This.
    37:23 - Work Ethic, Where Have You Gone? How Are People Making Things Work Without It?
    40:12 - Goal-Setting and Scaling: Planning Ahead
    42:54 - Anthony’s One Key Piece of Advice: Never Give Up! Plan For Success and You’ll Have It!
    43:44 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Anthony Caruso

    • Runtime

      45 Minutes, 31 Seconds

    • Air Date

      November 2nd, 2022


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  • Episode 18: Tom Brizzell (Custom Craft Builders)

    Episode 18: Tom Brizzell (Custom Craft Builders)

    Episode 18: Tom Brizzell (Custom Craft Builders)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!


    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Tom Brizzell, the main man behind Custom Craft Builders of Brunswick! They discuss Tom's zen-like approach towards his business, the challenges he faced starting both his business and his family in his twenties, and more in this in-depth episode!

    Tom Brizzell - Custom Craft Builders LLC

    00:16 - Introduction: Mike’s Crazy Cider

    01:31 - A Brief History of Tom Brizzell and Custom Craft Builders

    03:35 - A Learning Experience: A Mistake You Learn From is No Mistake!

    06:16 - Starting in Your 20s… Talk About Stressful!

    06:40 - Owning Your Own Business Does NOT Equal More Free Time (At Least at First)!

    08:12 - Working After (or Before) Hours… The Perspective Change Can Make a World of Difference!

    10:17 - Tom’s Biggest Mistake: Hiring Friends!

    14:33 - The Big Challenge Today: The Economy, and Explaining it to Customers!

    17:58 - The Secret to Tom’s Success… Going With the Flow!

    19:23 - Succeeding Without Marketing… Your Work Must Be TOP NOTCH to Speak for Itself!

    20:37 - Stacking Jobs: How Many is Too Many? It Depends on What Role You Play!

    22:00 - Be the “Icing on the Cake”

    24:15 - “Today is Going to Suck”: Prepare for Adversity!

    26:01 - Work Ethic and the Shifting Expectations of Society

    29:55 - From Working for Someone to Working for Yourself: A Difficult Transition!

    32:23 - College is Good… If You Know Why You’re Going!

    34:35 - Tom’s Routine: Strict Planning Works for Some, But Not Tom!

    35:51 - Tom’s One Key Piece of Advice: Don’t Give Up!

    36:40 - What Keeps Tom Going?.. Loving What He Does!

    37:27 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Tom Brizzell

    • Runtime

      39 Minutes, 17 Seconds

    • Air Date

      October 25th, 2022


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  • Episode 17: Matt Phelps (Metabolic Fitness)

    Episode 17: Matt Phelps (Metabolic Fitness)

    Episode 17: Matt Phelps (Metabolic Fitness)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Matt Phelps, the owner of Metabolic Fitness! They discuss how Matt got started, the stellar programs the facilities offer, and more in this informative episode!   
     
     
    Matt Phelps - Metabolic Fitness


    00:16 - Introduction

    02:03 - A Brief History of Matt Phelps and Metabolic Fitness

    07:03 - Derek Training with Matt… In a Warehouse in Schenectady?!

    08:13 - How Can Physical Fitness Play a Role in Your Success?

    09:59 - Metabolic’s Class Structuring: Don’t “Find a Time”, MAKE the Time!

    14:05 - Careful Scheduling: The Key to Success

    16:24 - Nutrition: A Misunderstood and Surprisingly Simple Component of Fitness!

    18:23 - How Personalized Should Nutrition Be?

    19:47 - Intermittent Fasting: Just a Means to an End!

    20:40 - Metabolic’s Coaches: Not Just Exercise, but Diet, Too!

    21:20 - What’s Next for Metabolic?

    23:20 - How Does Metabolic Scale so Quickly? With the Right People!

    25:24 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch

    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Matt Phelps

    • Runtime

      26 Minutes, 20 Seconds

    • Air Date

      October 24th, 2022


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  • Episode 16: Vince Laurenzo (Quick Response)

    Episode 16: Vince Laurenzo (Quick Response)

    Episode 16: Vince Laurenzo (Quick Response)

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    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!


    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Vince Laurenzo from Quick Response Restoration! Vince's story really hammers home that sometimes, working in a Blue Collar field chooses you, and it's up to you whether you answer the call with your own hard work and dedication!

    Vince Laurenzo - Quick Response

    00:15 - Introduction

    01:17 - What Does Quick Response Do?

    02:06 - What Does Vince Laurenzo Do?

    02:35 - Taking Over the Family Business

    03:43 - Vince’s Original Sales Role: Why He Left

    05:14 - Why is Restoration Consolidating? And How Does Quick Response Fight Back?

    06:55 - What Does Vince Do With the Extra Time in His Day?

    08:05 - Challenges of Entering a Family Business

    09:54 - Working the Business as a Youth, vs. Now: Experience Matters!

    13:25 - Seal-Coating Prices: Should’ve Bought From Vince When He Was 16!

    14:14 - Mike and Derek’s Recommendation: Listen to Andy Frisella, Too!

    15:25 - How to Succeed in a Saturated Market: A Personalized Touch!

    18:00 - Fridge Magnets: Stainless Steel Has Ruined Everything!

    18:17 - Derek’s Personal Guarantee: Quick Response Does GREAT Work!

    19:14 - Radio Advertising: Still a Successful Marketing Method!

    21:36 - How to Manage FIFTY Employees: Treat Them Right!

    22:45 - Daigle’s HR Department: Once You Reach a Certain Size, You NEED One!

    23:36 - Hiring For Blue Collar Trades… Very Difficult!

    24:20 - Darn You, Salt Life! Vacations Be Damned!

    25:49 - Where Does Quick Response Find Talent?.. Indeed, and Employee Recommendations! (For Now)

    26:58 - Mike’s Farm: Now Has a Brand New Pig, Penelope! She’s a Princess!

    28:19 - COVID’s Contribution to the Labor Shortage: How Did it Change So Much?..

    29:32 - … But a Big Shift is Likely Coming!

    31:07 - The Next Steps For Quick Response: Big Growth Incoming!

    32:40 - New Office Location: Where Could it Be?

    33:17 - Vince’s Key to Success: Hard Work! That’s It!

    34:25 - A Typical Day in Vince’s Life: Being On Call is No Joke!

    36:09 - Working in Restoration, You See it All! Stranger Than Fiction!

    37:10 - How to Get in Touch With Quick Response: Give Them a Call!

    38:20 - How Vince Achieves Work-Life Balance… He Doesn’t!

    39:40 - Being On-Call Isn’t Just for Restoration! MARKETING EMERGENCIES!

    40:37 - The Trade-Off: Employees and Bosses Alike Have Their Own Sets of Problems!

    41:45 - Contractors… Better Book in Advance, Because There’s a LONG Wait!

    43:26 - Does the Economic Slump Affect Daigle?.. Only A Little!

    44:07 - Calling Back Customers: A Surprisingly Effective Strategy!

    44:25 - Quick Response’s Unique Situation: Recession-Proof!

    45:07 - Mike’s Other Podcast: Faces of Veterans! Check it Out!

    46:04 - College: Go For the Right Reasons, or Don’t Go at All!

    49:16 - Shotgunning Beers, Yee-Haw!

    49:49 - Closing Remarks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Mike Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Vince Laurenzo

    • Runtime

       51 Minutes 43 Seconds

    • Air Date

      October 11th, 2022


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  • Episode 15: Anthony Guadagnino (Veteran-Made Woodworks)
    Episode 15: Anthony Guadagnino (Veteran-Made Woodworks)

    Episode 15: Anthony Guadagnino (Veteran-Made Woodworks)

    Episode 15: Anthony Guadagnino (Veteran-Made Woodworks)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this Episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Anthony Guadagnino, owner and operator of Veteran-Made Woodworks! Anthony shares some great stories about past successes - and failures - and discusses his workman's philosophy in this brand new episode!

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.

    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.

    Anthony Guadagnino - Veteran-Made Woodworks

    00:16 - Introduction: We’re on the Scene!
    01:54 - A Basic Overview of Anthony Guadagnino
    03:24 - A Basic Overview of Veteran-Made Woodworks
    06:22 - His Greatest Customers: Patriots of all Kinds!
    07:49 - Business Profits: Not for Vacations, But Building the Business Bigger!
    09:12 - Chain of Command: Comes Natural to Veterans… Not Always to Civilians!
    11:03 - Sentimental Pieces Deserve the Strictest Quality Control!
    12:07 - Mike & Derek Take a Look at a Flamethrower
    15:18 - Your First Employees: The Hurdle of Hiring Help
    18:18 - A Very Special Customer, and a Very Special Night
    19:57 - More Special Customers
    21:09 - Training Your Next Competitor: Keep Your Eyes Peeled!
    23:05 - Anthony’s Biggest Mistake: Overworking!
    25:29 - Maintaining Health = Maintaining Success: Make the Time!
    26:51 - Upcoming Content: Stay Tuned!
    28:20 - The Value of Toughness: Physical AND Mental!
    30:55 - Mental Toughness: Patience, Critical Thinking, Empathy… Keep a Level Head!
    33:41 - Motivation vs. Discipline: One Depends on Your Emotions, One Doesn’t!
    36:01 - Getting Excited Over Gas Being $3.89 a Gallon… Take Whatever Wins You Can!
    38:10 - Derek Foster: Super-Sonic Machine! Speeding up Your Processes
    39:39 - Being Able to Say No: When to Say When?
    40:52 - Early on, Say Yes, Get the Money in!.. Later, Know Your Business’ Limits!
    42:56 - Looking Back… Be Proud of How Far You’ve Come!
    45:00 - The Logos: Creating Them Like a Tattoo!
    46:18 - Lighting Cigars With a Blowtorch!.. And Some Brand Recommendations
    47:35 - Anthony’s One Final Piece of Advice: Do What You Can Yourself, but Don’t be Afraid to Outsource!
    49:52 - Closing Remarks: How to Get in Touch With Veteran-Made Woodworks


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Anthony Guadagnino

    • Runtime

       51 Minutes 16 Seconds

    • Air Date

      September 19th, 2022


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  • Episode 14: Patrick Farnan (Next-Level Finishes)
    Episode 14: Patrick Farnan (Next-Level Finishes)

    Episode 14: Patrick Farnan (Next-Level Finishes)

    Episode 14: Patrick Farnan (Next-Level Finishes)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Patrick Farnan from Next Level Finishes! Patrick really hit it home for us that running a successful business doesn't need to wait - it can start as soon as you're willing to put the time and work in!

    Patrick Farnan - Next Level Finishes

    00:16 - Introduction

    01:21 - The First Six Months: Making the Transition and Learning From Your Mistakes

    05:51 - The Moment: A Failure That Opens Your Eyes

    08:20 - Starting (and Running) Your Own Business is Not Easy!

    10:01 - The “Stepping Stone” - How to Approach Your Mentor

    13:39 - Farnan’s Most Important Tip - Be Prepared For Anything!

    14:37 - When Is It Time to Transition From Side Gig to Full-Time?

    16:40 - Can a Finance Degree Help With Bookkeeping Operations?

    18:37 - The Biggest Roadblock: Dealing With Naysayers (Inside Your Circle and Out!)

    22:22: - College: Weigh the Cost and Benefits to You Carefully!

    23:30 - Work Ethic: Where Has it Gone?

    26:20 - Secret to Success: Hard Work, a Support System… And a Little Luck!

    27:32 - Hiring: It’s Important to Learn How to Treat Your Workers!

    30:36 - Mobile Phones: Boon to Consumers, Bane to Business Owners!

    31:46 - Morning Routines

    33:31 - What’s Next?

    35:05 - Closing Thoughts & Contact Info


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Patrick Farnan

    • Runtime

       36 Minutes 28 Seconds

    • Air Date

      July 25th, 2022


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  • Episode 13: Matthew Perry (HVCC)
    Episode 13: Matthew Perry (HVCC)

    Episode 13: Matthew Perry (HVCC)

    Episode 13: Matthew Perry (HVCC)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Matthew Perry from the Auto-Body Program at Hudson Valley Community College! Matt highlights for us that there need not always be a line between a college degree and trade schooling; sometimes, you can have both!

    Matthew Perry - Hudson Valley Community College

    00:16 - Introduction

    07:13 - HVCC’s Auto-Body Program: What it Offers and Where It Can Take You

    15:41 - Who Can Benefit From the Program? Anybody!

    19:28 - Evolving Car Technology: Keeping Up With the Times

    25:49 - Student Success: An Uplifting Track Record!

    30:39 - Hailstorms: A (Car) Roofer’s Best Friend

    32:46 - A Golden Chance: Come in Early, Stay Longer, Work Smart, and Make a Mint!

    36:15 - Work is What You Make of It!

    38:05 - Enrollment: Easy Options Galore!

    40:39 - How to Know if Auto-Body Would Be a Good Career Path For You

    42:24 - How to Get in Touch and Closing Thoughts


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Matthew Perry

    • Runtime

      46 Minutes 16 Seconds

    • Air Date

      July 21st, 2022


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  • Episode 12: Matt DeFazio (DeFazio's Pizza)
    Episode 12: Matt DeFazio (DeFazio's Pizza)

    Episode 12: Matt DeFazio (DeFazio's Pizza)

    Episode 12: Matt DeFazio (DeFazio's Pizza)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Matt DeFazio from DeFazio's Pizza of Troy and Albany! This episode really highlights that starting with an already-successful business is one thing, but it's what you (and your team) put into it that can make it grow... Or let it crash and burn!

    Matt DeFazio - DeFazio's Pizza

    00:16 - Introductions

    06:25 - DeFazio’s Scale; Past, Present and Future

    12:24 - Rising From Hidden Gem to Famous Diamond

    16:23 - His Biggest Challenge - Not Finding Workers, But Dealing With Them!

    23:00 - Business Owners - Not Out Golfing All Day!

    26:12 - Name-Drop of the AWESOME Editor

    26:31 - DeFazio’s Biggest Struggle - Online Ordering!

    32:05 - The Secret to DeFazio’s Success: Hard Work, But Also Cutting Yourself Some Slack!

    36:14 - The Importance of Work Ethic and Common Sense Scheduling

    40:04 - DeFazio’s Coaching Experience: How It Helped Him Run His Business, Too!

    42:36 - Owning a Business - A Constant, Validating Challenge

    45:20 - DeFazio’s “Barstool” Reviewer Score - Sky High! Delicious Food Galore!

    51:05 - Final Piece of Advice, and How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Matt DeFazio

    • Runtime

       55 Minutes 34 Seconds

    • Air Date

      July 20th, 2022


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  • Episode 11: Jennifer Lawrence (SEAT Center)
    Episode 11: Jennifer Lawrence (SEAT Center)

    Episode 11: Jennifer Lawrence (SEAT Center)

    Episode 11: Jennifer Lawrence (SEAT Center)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Jennifer Lawrence from SEAT Center! Jennifer makes it clear for us that with the right training and support, anyone can succeed!

    Social Enterprise And Training (SEAT) Center - Jennifer Lawrence

    00:16 - Introduction

    03:15 - SEAT Center’s Origin Story

    06:18 - Finding Your SEAT: How to Engage With the Center

    13:49 - Staffing Opportunities

    20:26 - The Success of SEAT’s Graduates

    24:15 - Saying Yes: The Key to Success

    29:48 - Key Advice - Have a Plan For Your Business’ Scale

    32:36 - The Power of No: Know When to Say When!

    33:40 - SEAT’s Plans For the Future

    38:44 - Mental Toughness Training: Develop Your Strengths!

    44:52 - Morning Routines

    48:10 - Socializing and Human Limitations

    52:16 - The Scope and Format of Planning: Pick Ways That Work For You!

    55:28 - Final Piece of Advice and How to Get in Touch With SEAT


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Jennifer Lawrence

    • Runtime

       58 Minutes 49 Seconds

    • Air Date

      July 19th, 2022


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  • Episode 10: Mike Robyck & Matt Roberts (MR² Construction)
    Episode 10: Mike Robyck & Matt Roberts (MR² Construction)

    Episode 10: Mike Robyck & Matt Roberts (MR² Construction)

    Episode 10: Mike Robyck & Matt Roberts (MR² Construction)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Mike Robyck and Matt Roberts from MR² Construction Services! They make it clear for us that no matter what your background or how you start up, you can make your business shine with enough work - and a little luck!

    Mike Robyck & Matt Roberts - MR² Construction Services

    00:16 - Introductions
    05:20 - What Motivated Them To Start Their Business?
    11:50 - Managing Employees: Strategies and Complications
    13:56 - Strategizing the Expansion of a Business
    18:55 - Finding the Right People For the Job
    22:16 - Commercial Break
    22:41 - Rags to Riches: Doing What It Takes
    26:36 - Adapting to Stress
    30:12 - The MR² Process: Structure is Crucial!
    34:10 - Recreation: Mike and Matt’s Hobbies
    39:32 - MR²’s Secret to Success
    42:44 - Thoughts on Work Ethic
    43:38 - MR²’s Final Piece of Advice


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guests

      Mike Robyck & Matt Roberts

    • Runtime

      47 Minutes 9 Seconds

    • Air Date

      July 8th, 2022


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  • Episode 9: Randy Rowe (Farrell Bros.)
    Episode 9: Randy Rowe (Farrell Bros.)

    Episode 9: Randy Rowe (Farrell Bros.)

    Episode 9: Randy Rowe (Farrell Bros.)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Randy Rowe from Farrell Brothers Plumbing & Heating! Randy makes it clear for us that running a franchise (or two) can be in the cards for anyone who's willing to put the work in!

    Randy Rowe - Farrell Brothers Plumbing & Heating

    00:16 - Introductions
    05:56 - Randy’s Franchises: What the Value Is
    13:41 - Adding Businesses: What to Look For (and What to Avoid)
    16:50 - Randy’s Biggest Challenge: Finding Workers!
    21:43 - Randy’s Daily Routine
    23:48 - Commercial Break
    24:25 - Randy’s Thoughts on Work Ethic: It Can Be Taught!
    26:18 - A Fifty-Year-Old Toilet?
    27:08 - College: Is It the Right Choice?
    28:59 - Business-Planning and Goal-Setting: Retirement’s a Long Way Off!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Randy Rowe

    • Runtime

      34 Minutes 57 Seconds

    • Air Date

      July 7th, 2022


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  • Episode 8: Bryan Berry (Color Code Painting)
    Episode 8: Bryan Berry (Color Code Painting)

    Episode 8: Bryan Berry (Color Code Painting)

    Episode 8: Bryan Berry (Color Code Painting)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Bryan Berry from Color Code Painting! Bryan makes it clear for us that no amount of adversity is insurmountable as long as you're willing to put your nose to the grindstone and work towards your goals!

    Bryan Berry - Color Code Painting

    00:16 - Introduction
    03:58 - Achieving the Balance: The Fine Line Between Complacency, and Valuing Yourself and Your Accomplishments
    05:55 - Color Code Painting - From an Apprenticeship to an Award-Winning Business
    11:57 - The Pivotal Moment: When it Was Time to Work For Himself Full-Time
    17:02 - Bryan's Time in Prison: A Transformative Experience
    25:11 - Your Biggest Obstacle in Business... Can Be Yourself!
    30:36 - Commercial Break
    31:00 - Bryan's Tips & Tricks: How to Keep Yourself (and Your Workers) Motivated
    43:14 - Bryan's Secrets to Success!


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewers

      Michael Nelson & Derek Foster

    • Guest

      Bryan Berry

    • Runtime

      48 Minutes 36 Seconds

    • Air Date

      June 3rd, 2022


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  • Episode 7: Dr. Turina Parker (NY BOCES)
    Episode 7: Dr. Turina Parker (NY BOCES)

    Episode 7: Dr. Turina Parker (NY BOCES)

    Episode 7: Dr. Turina Parker (NY BOCES)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Dr. Turina Parker from New York BOCES! Dr. Parker makes it clear for us that properly directed education is the best route towards success - whatever you happen to study!

    Dr. Turina Parker - New York BOCES

    Check it out HERE

    00:16 - Introduction
    01:30 - BOCES' Approach to Adult Learning: Technical Trades Galore!
    06:04 - BOCES' Approach to Child Learning: Getting Excited About Learning!
    09:14 - Derek Steps In!
    09:53 - The Student Stigma Against BOCES: How Baseless It Really Is!
    13:15 - Women in the Trades: What BOCES Is Doing About It
    18:54 - List of What Trade Learning BOCES Offers
    20:33 - How Do I Know if BOCES Is Right For Me, My Child, or My Business?
    22:22 - Commercial Break
    23:01 - Overcoming Barriers: How BOCES Makes Itself Known and Available
    27:03 - Women in the Trades Part 2: Measured Success and Aspirations
    29:23 - Student-Focused Learning: Individualizing the Experience
    33:13 - How to Get in Touch With BOCES


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewer

      Michael Nelson

    • Guest

      Dr. Turina Parker

    • Runtime

       35 Minutes 55 Seconds

    • Air Date

      May 31st, 2022


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  • Episode 6: Matt Smith (Ace Home Inspections)
    Episode 6: Matt Smith (Ace Home Inspections)

    Episode 6: Matt Smith (Ace Home Inspections)

    Episode 6: Matt Smith (Ace Home Inspections)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Matt Smith from Ace Home Inspections! Matt makes it clear for us that the best thing about blue-collar businesses is the motivation that goes behind them - if you believe, you can achieve!

    Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/58-brDE31B4

     

     

    00:17 - Introduction
    01:19 - Interview Begins
    02:48 - Prospective Homeowners Should Want to Be Informed
    09:41 - Derek Foster Refuses to Visually Cameo But Is With Us in Spirit
    10:03 - Ace’s Success, And How Difficult Founding and Running a Business Can be
    16:33 - What Made Matt Decide to Start His Business
    19:17 - Extra Help Matt Hired, and the Reasons Why
    24:45 - Commercial Break
    25:13 - Interview Recommences; Matt Refuses To Leave, Mike Reveals His Favorite Timelord
    25:36 - Matt Talks Metrics: What to Keep an Eye on
    31:55 - Work Ethic
    33:12 - College Education
    40:33 - Daily Routine
    43:29 - Matt’s Number-One Tip For Success
    44:58 - Closer: How to Get In Touch With Mike and Ace Home Inspections


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewer

      Michael Nelson

    • Guest

      Matt Smith

    • Run time

      46 Minutes 36 Seconds

    • Air date

      May 19th, 2022


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  • Episode 5: Josh Jewett (Cole's Collision)
    Episode 5: Josh Jewett (Cole's Collision)

    Episode 5: Josh Jewett (Cole's Collision)

    Episode 5: Josh Jewett (Cole's Collision)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Josh Jewett from Cole’s Collision... Some really great stories here on growing a business from zero to 90 employees, with multiple locations and more! Definitely a must-hear episode!

    Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MUCmeTQGtIg

     

     

    01:17 - No Choice But to Be a Car Guy
    01:50 - Hudson Valley Mechanical Course...
    04:09 - ... It’s a Unique Program
    06:26 - Starting a Lifelong Career
    14:45 - Cat Food and Crackers
    17:29 - A Hailstorm: A Saving Grace
    21:09 - Networking... Is Working!
    24:00 - Growth Through Acquisition
    26:55 - When Things Go South…
    28:40 - Trying to Grow a Business; Not Kill a Business!
    30:43 - Quadrupling the Business
    37:16 - Growing or Dying
    37:53 - Biggest Challenge 
    42:20 - Mini Companies Inside Your Company
    45:22 - Certifications 
    47:22 - The Mosaic Basic Things You Need as a Solid Employee
    47:38 - Apprentice Program


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewer

      Michael Nelson

    • Guest

      Josh Jewett

    • Runtime

       55 Minutes 16 Seconds

    • Air Date

      May 3rd, 2022


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  • Episode 4: Jamie Magur (Troy Grooming Company)
    Episode 4: Jamie Magur (Troy Grooming Company)

    Episode 4: Jamie Magur (Troy Grooming Company)

    Episode 4: Jamie Magur (Troy Grooming Company)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our Host Mike Nelson interviews Jamie Magur from Troy Grooming Company. Jamie really highlighted for us that no matter what your story is, no matter where the road has taken you... You CAN start over, and you CAN be successful!

    Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/2WP4Pc8Jp4I 



    01:19 - Barbershops are on the Return!
    01:56 - Cutting Hair in the Garage 
    02:56 - “It’s in the Family”
    03:13 - Uncle Tony Disrupting the Game
    05:38 - Keep You Coming Back 
    08:31 - You Pay for the Company, and Get the Haircut for Free!
    08:57 - What it Takes to Run a Barbershop in the Current Environment
    11:36 - “...Learn a Trade on YouTube…”
    15:14 - Biggest Challenge - Starting Over
    23:25 - The Resurgence of Many Trades in the Last 5 to 10 Years: Barbers, Butchers, and More
    24:25 - Why He Went to College
    29:30 - Work Ethic
    30:44 - What the Younger Generation is Looking For
    32:32 - Going Backwards 
    34:16 - Morning Routines
    36:27 - Goal-Setting and Planning?
    39:38 - Giving Back... And the "Curse Jar"
    41:08 - One Piece of Advice 
    42:21 - If You Love it... Stick With it!
    42:35 - College is Not the Only Way
    46:01 - How to Get in Touch


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewer

      Michael Nelson

    • Guest

      Jamie Magur

    • Runtime

       48 Minutes 02 Seconds

    • Air Date

      April 20th, 2022


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  • Episode 3: Devon Camenga (Camenga Construction)
    Episode 3: Devon Camenga (Camenga Construction)

    Episode 3: Devon Camenga (Camenga Construction)

    Episode 3: Devon Camenga (Camenga Construction)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, our host Mike Nelson interviews Devon Camenga from Camenga Construction. Devon really highlights how to go from no-hustle to side-hustle, and then how to turn that side-hustle into your full-time gig! Big secret to success here? We'll give you a hint: Reputation. 

    Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JApYhfx6RfI 

     

     

    2:53 - Who is Camenga Construction, and What Do They Do?
    5:12 - The Difference in Demand Between Now, and Just 5 Years Ago
    11:23 - Young Blue Collar Labor Force
    14:18 - Soloprenuer!
    14:47 - Looking For an Apprentice.
    16:40 - Making the Jump from Educator to Full-Time Contractor...
    18:57 - ... It's a Scary Leap.
    21:04 - Your Reputation is EVERYTHING!
    22:14 - You Have to Know How to Network
    24:21 - The Plight of the Adirondack Contractor
    27:58 - Mentors Along the Way
    30:15 - Secret to Success
    32:11 - State of Blue Collar Industries
    44:26 - Things to Consider - Trade School IS an Option!
    47:06 - Mental Toughness...
    49:01 One Bad Job


    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewer

      Michael Nelson

    • Guest

      Devon Camenga

    • Runtime

       50 Minutes 40 Seconds

    • Air Date

      March 25th, 2022


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  • Episode 2: Derek Foster (Daigle Cleaning Systems)
    Episode 2: Derek Foster (Daigle Cleaning Systems)

    Episode 2: Derek Foster (Daigle Cleaning Systems)

    Episode 2: Derek Foster (Daigle Cleaning Systems)

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast.    
    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners.   

    In this episode, Mike interviews Derek Foster: co-founder of Blue Collar StartUp, president of Daigle Cleaning Systems, and CEO of DCS Franchises. Derek has grown a commercial cleaning and janitorial business from his side hustle to a thriving multi-million dollar business with over 100 employees! In this podcast, Derek fills us in on how he got started, going from side hustle to full time, and what it takes to grow a successful business in the janitorial industry.    
     
    Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JApYhfx6RfI 
     
     
     
    04:13 - Work Ethic 
    06:50 - Side Hustle Start Up 
    10:05 - Creating Process 
    11:13 - Everyone Sucks Sometime  
    13:46 - When Mistakes Happen, You Have Two Choices 
    25:05 - State of the Blue Collar Industries 
    29:41 - From Chaos... Comes Opportunity 
    31:29 - Patience - It Goes a Long Way!
    32:14 - Biggest Challenge Derek Ever Faced 
    33:00 - Wake-Up Call 
    37:10 - Will vs Skill 
    37:22 - What Would he do Differently, if he Could Do it Again?
    38:34 - Mentors Along the Way  
    44:01 - Secret to Success

    Episode

    Details

    • Interviewer

      Michael Nelson

    • Guest

      Derek Foster

    • Runtime

      48 Minutes

    • Air Date

      March 14th, 2022


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  • Episode 1: You Gotta' Start Somewhere
    Episode 1: You Gotta' Start Somewhere

    Episode 1: You Gotta' Start Somewhere

    You Gotta' Start Somewhere

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp the podcast. 

    Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners. 


    Overview

    In our first episode Derek Foster and Mike Nelson discuss what the podcast is about, who it is for, and what is behind it all. 

    We (MIke) did make a couple mistakes while recording so our audio is a little off on this one. We also discovered that Mike should not be allowed to chew gum during recording. As the title says though: "You gotta' start somewhere", and we look forward to improving the quality of the recording as we go. 

    Show Notes

    • 00:38 - Derek Gives us the Run-Down on Blue Collar StartUp
    • 01:55 - Huge Opportunity
    • 02:28 - What We Know to be True...
    • 03:56 - Tech is Sexy!
    • 04:48 - Derek's Favorite Show
    • 05:51 - The Idea...
    • 06:58 - The Blue Collar Blueprint
    • 09:16 - Application of Knowledge
    • 10:14 - Putting it Out There!

    Episode

    Sponsored By:

    Details

    • Location

      Care Clean Warehouse

    • Runtime

      10 min 54 seconds

    • Record Date

      February 24, 2022

    • Airing Date

      February 25, 2022


    Cast

    • Mike Nelson

    • Derek Foster


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    Derek Foster - DCS

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