In this episode of Trade Legends, we sit down with Andrew, a seasoned HVAC professional from Australia, to explore his journey through four decades in the trade. He shares how he fell into the industry almost by accident, what kept him passionate over the years, and how the HVAC landscape has changed both in Australia and globally. Andrew offers invaluable advice for young people considering a trade career, emphasising the importance of curiosity, hands-on experience, and finding work that genuinely sparks your interest. His perspective highlights how vocational paths can lead not just to stable employment, but to a deeply fulfilling life and career.The episode also delves into Andrew’s accidental leap into product innovation. What started as a simple idea to make installations cleaner and faster grew into a bracket system that’s now gaining international attention. He explains the problem it solved, the process of testing and refining it within his own team, and how the demand from contractors and consultants led to its eventual commercialisation. With backing from Aspen Pumps and strong interest from the UK and US markets, Andrew reflects on the journey so far, the potential global impact of the product, and what the future may hold for both his business and the HVAC trade as a whole.

In this episode of the Trade Legends podcast, we sit down with Ryan O'Sullivan, founder of the Ry Group, to hear his honest and inspiring story—from struggling in school to building a successful multi-trade business with over 30 staff. Ryan talks about how he navigated early challenges with education, a derailed football career, and eventually found his place in the trades, starting with an apprenticeship at British Gas and launching his own company at just 20 years old.We dive into how the Ry Group grew from a one-man band to a full team of plumbers, electricians, gas engineers, and more. Ryan shares the highs and lows of scaling a business, including learning to delegate, managing staff, adapting to new tech, and staying profitable in a constantly changing industry. He also offers valuable advice for tradespeople looking to grow, whether you're just starting out or trying to scale up.This episode covers everything from mental health and work-life balance to exercise, family, and Ryan's future goals, including expanding the Ry Group nationwide and launching Trade Gains, a new platform to help tradespeople build better businesses.Packed with real insights, straight-talking advice, and a few laughs, this is a must-watch for anyone in the trades or thinking of going out on their own.

In this gripping podcast episode, we’re joined by two frontline officers from the Metropolitan Police to delve into the growing problem of tool theft across the UK. With thousands of tradespeople falling victim to stolen tools each year, we explore what the police are doing to tackle the issue. From unregulated car boot sales and organised criminal networks, to how forensic tool marking is leading to real convictions, we unpack the reality behind the headlines.

We’re also joined by Clair from SelectaDNA, a leader in forensic marking technology, who explains how this innovative approach is helping to trace and recover stolen tools, while supporting successful prosecutions. This episode shows how tradespeople, police forces, local authorities and businesses can come together to fight back against tool theft and restore confidence in the system.

Whether you’re a builder, electrician, plumber or anyone whose livelihood depends on your tools, this is an essential watch. We discuss real-life cases, police operations, and how simple actions like tool marking are having a powerful impact.

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