Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 53: One Man, One Plan - Zay Gets it Done
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!
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.
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!
4
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 52: Dancing Grain - From Field to Glass
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!
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.
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
18
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 51: A Family Foundation, Built Right
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!
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!
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
20
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 49: The True Meaning of Leadership
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!
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.
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: grow@theleaders.group
34:58 - Mike Biffed It
35:28 - Staying Young: Diet, Exercise, and Learning
36:57 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB and Michaels Group!
20
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 48: From Scraping to Scaping
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!
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!
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!
15
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 47: Ownership vs. Management - Dimitri's Story
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!
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!
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
34
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 46: Advocating for the Trades - AGC NYS
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!
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.
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!
67
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 45: Revolutionizing Workforce Development with BoomNation
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!
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!
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
50
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 44: Fabricating the Future
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!
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.
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!
20
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 43: Breaking the Blue Collar Stigma with Curtis Lumber
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!
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!
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!
15
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 42: Lifelong Skills to Pay the Bills from WSWHE BOCES
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!
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.
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!
38
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 40: Putting Out Fires - Solutions for the Budding Businessman
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!
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.
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
14
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 38: Heartbreak, Heroes, and the HVCC Community
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!
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!
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
52
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 37: Grasshopper Heating & Cooling: Handling Explosive Growth in a Short Time
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!
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!
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: Amanda@gograsshopper.com
56:41 - Closing Remarks
246
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 36: Jim Dawsey - Decades of Trials and Triumphs
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!
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.
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!
67
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 35: Juan, Jason & Matt (Hunt Companies, Inc.)
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!
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!
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
22
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 34: Mike McGrath (1-800-Paint-Job)
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/
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!
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!
24
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 31: Bruce Hoffmann (WSWHE BOCES)
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!
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!
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! hardhat@bluecollarstartup.io
15
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 33: Taylor Hopeck (Witt Construction, Inc.)
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!
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!
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
13
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 29: Vince LaTerra (Bonacio Construction Inc.)
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!
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!
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
31
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 28: Ivan Bell (IBS Septic & Drain)
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!
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!
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
9
views
Blue Collar StartUp - Episode 27: Jim Countryman (HVCC)
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!
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!
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
20
views