In this episode of the Trades Podcast, Danny and Jeff discuss the challenges and opportunities in attracting young adults to the trades. They explore the importance of paid on-the-job training, creating certificate programs, and the role of technology in training. The conversation also highlights the significance of mentorship, company culture, and engaging with schools to recruit the next generation of tradespeople. With insights from industry experts, the episode provides actionable strategies for business owners to retain employees and build a strong workforce in the trades.

The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, career progression, workplace culture, and clear communication. Jeff and Danny also share insights on training programs, leadership development, and why creating a sense of purpose in the workplace can dramatically improve retention.

This episode is a practical and motivational discussion for contractors, shop owners, and leaders who want to build stronger teams and a stronger industry.

The Trades Podcast
https://www.thetradespodcast.com

• Why recruiting in the trades requires a new approach
• What younger workers value in a workplace
• How mentorship and training improve retention
• The role of culture in building long-term teams
• Practical ways to attract motivated apprentices and technicians
• Why investing in people strengthens your business

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Trades Podcast

01:05 Attracting Young Adults to Trade Schools

03:55 Competing with Trade Schools for Talent

04:04 The Importance of Paid On-the-Job Training

07:34 Creating a Certificate Program for Employees

09:34 Utilizing Technology in Training

12:13 Bringing in Industry Experts for Training

15:47 Documenting Employee Training and Progress

20:18 Creating a Clear Career Pathway

22:45 The Role of Company Growth in Employee Retention

26:13 Formalizing Apprenticeship Models

30:15 Recruiting Young Adults into the Trades

41:09 Building a Strong Company Culture

Website
https://www.thetradespodcast.com

Hosted by
Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres

The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.

If this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

In this episode, Jeff and Danny talk with Tommy Holstein, CEO of Solid Ground STL, about the challenges and rewards of leading a construction and foundation repair company. Tommy explains why attention to detail, honesty with customers, and strong internal culture are essential in an industry where trust and safety matter most.

The conversation explores leadership under pressure, growing a skilled team, and maintaining high standards as a business scales. Tommy also discusses the importance of educating homeowners, standing behind your work, and making decisions that protect both people and property.

Solid Ground STL
https://www.solidgroundstl.com

The Trades Podcast
https://www.thetradespodcast.com

• How to build trust in high-stakes construction services
• Why quality foundations start with strong leadership
• The role of education and transparency with customers
• How to lead teams in physically demanding, technical work
• What it takes to grow a trade business responsibly
• Why long-term reputation matters more than short-term wins

Website
https://www.thetradespodcast.com

Hosted by
Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres

The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.

If this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.

In this episode of The Trades Podcast, hosts Jeff and Danny welcome Kathy Denton from Berger Hardware, who shares her extensive experience in the door hardware industry. Kathy discusses her journey from being a client to working at Berger Hardware for over 32 years. She highlights the transition to their new location in Encinitas, the unique showroom experience, and the importance of building relationships with clients and contractors. Kathy also explains how they guide homeowners and contractors through the selection process, the impact of technology on hardware, and the value of their job walk services. The conversation emphasizes the commitment to customer service and the personal touch that sets Berger Hardware apart from larger retailers.

The conversation explores how Berger Hardware balances tradition with innovation, stays responsive to contractor needs, and remains a trusted resource for builders, remodelers, and skilled trades professionals. Kathy also shares lessons on customer service, communication, and consistency that apply across every trade business.

Berger Hardware Inc.
https://www.bergerhardwareinc.com

VISIT US: 579 Westlake St., Encinitas , CA 92024

Get Directions

SERVING AREA: Del Mar, CA 92014, La Mesa, CA, La Jolla, CA, San Diego, CA, Rancho Santa Fe, CA, and surrounding areas

CONTACT US: (619) 268-1885

BERGER HARDWARE INC. is a Proud Sponsor of The Trades Podcast!

What You Will Learn

• Why supplier relationships matter in the trades
• How product knowledge supports jobsite success
• The role of customer service in construction supply
• How trust is built through consistency and reliability
• Why hardware selection impacts project quality
• How Berger Hardware supports contractors every day

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Berger Hardware and Kathy Denton

02:51 Kathy's Journey with Berger Hardware

05:34 Transitioning to the Encinitas Location

08:43 The New Showroom Experience

11:31 Building Relationships with Clients and Contractors

14:21 Memorable Moments at Berger Hardware

17:24 The Importance of Customer Service

20:07 Navigating Client Needs and Choices

23:00 Unique Design Choices in Hardware

25:54 Problem Solving for Clients

28:44 Crafting Unique Solutions for Home Design

36:27 Embracing Technology in Home Security

42:42 Understanding Security Features and Options

47:37 The Importance of Job Walks in Remodeling

54:21 Custom Solutions vs. Off-the-Shelf Products

Website
https://www.thetradespodcast.com

Hosted by
Jeff Mudd and Danny Torres

The Trades Podcast features real conversations with business owners, trades leaders, and industry innovators making an impact in the skilled trades community.

If this episode inspires you, share it with someone in the trades or anyone thinking about starting a home-services business. Like, comment, and subscribe to help more people discover these conversations.