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.

Don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe for more discussions on tool security, crime prevention, and how to protect your trade.

EXPOSED - Tool Theft Crime Wave at car boot sales with Rob JenrickIn this powerful new episode of the Trade Legends Podcast, we’re taking you inside the Houses of Parliament for an important and eye-opening conversation with Shadow Secretary of State for Justice, Rob Jenrick, and trades campaigner Shoaib the Gas Expert. This episode marks a significant milestone in the fight against the tool theft epidemic, which continues to affect thousands of tradespeople across the UK.We sit down to discuss the scale of the problem—from tools being stolen out of vans and homes, to the shocking scenes at car boot sales where stolen equipment is being openly sold. Rob Jenrick shares how he got involved in the campaign, what he’s seen firsthand, and how he’s working in Parliament to push for stronger laws, tougher enforcement, and real consequences for offenders.Shoaib brings the on-the-ground reality, recounting stories from tradespeople who’ve had their livelihoods destroyed and explaining how forensic marking kits like SelectaDNA can help protect tools and support police investigations. Together, they talk about how tradespeople, police, MPs, and the wider public can come together to turn awareness into action.This episode is an honest look at a growing issue that affects real people, real businesses, and entire communities. If you're in the trade or care about protecting the people who keep the country running, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Please watch, share, and leave a comment. The more awareness we build, the more pressure we can put on those in power to act.

🔒 This Episode Will Save Your Tools! | Mundi Van SecurityIn this episode of the Trades Talk Podcast, we sit down with Graham Mundy, the founder of Mundy Van Security—the guy behind those now-famous van security cages making waves on social media.Graham shares his journey from infantry soldier to accidental inventor of a game-changing van security system after a mate's van was broken into. From building the first set of van gates on his driveway to running the most trusted van security company in 2024 with a 100% success rate so far, this is a wild ride of graft, grit, and smart engineering.We get into:His background in the army and the birth of the businessThe devastating tool thefts that sparked the ideaHow his van gates withstand 15+ minute attacks (even with grinders!)Why van manufacturers still aren’t doing enoughHis plans to scale and protect even more tradespeopleBehind the scenes of real-world testing and viral videosIf you're a tradesperson sick of tool theft, this is a must-watch. Graham’s invention could genuinely save your business.Subscribe now and drop your thoughts in the comments. Has your van been done? Would you trust these gates to protect your gear?

In this episode, we sit down with Kev, better known as Prestige Painter, an award-winning decorator with an inspiring story that spans professional football, high-level management, and a leap into entrepreneurship. Kev shares the raw truth about getting released from his football career at 18 and the emotional toll it took, before redirecting his drive into the automotive industry, rising through the ranks to become one of the youngest dealer principals in the country.But that wasn’t the end of his story. Realising he was missing time with his daughter and burned out from long hours, Kev made the bold decision to walk away and start over as a decorator. He reveals how he built a thriving business from scratch, leveraging social media, smart branding, and the lessons he learned from elite corporate environments to build Prestige Decorating into a respected name.We talk about his rise on Facebook and Instagram, the power of consistent professionalism, and the importance of mentoring the next generation of tradespeople. Kev also opens up about being approached by major brands, winning prestigious industry awards, and the priceless value of reputation and detail in the trades.Whether you're in the trades, thinking of a career pivot, or love a powerful story of resilience and reinvention, this episode is packed with wisdom, humour, and real talk.

In this episode, the Trade Legends team welcomes Lucy from the Installer Show and Adam from SOTA Electrical. Lucy shares her journey from journalism to becoming a key figure in trade events, highlighting her creation of the influential #TradesTalk Twitter community. She dives into the growth of the Installer Show, now spanning three halls and expanding internationally, with new shows in New York and Melbourne. The show promises exciting features this year, including a full-scale sustainable house build and a £10,000 giveaway.Adam also reflects on his hands-on journey from traditional electrical apprenticeships to running his own successful EV charging business. With candid stories about starting from scratch, transitioning into the domestic space, and the power of YouTube marketing, he emphasises the value of self-driven learning and building a personal brand. Both guests shed light on industry challenges, including regulation loopholes and the future of skilled trades, offering inspiration and real talk for anyone in or around the trades.

Nearly BANKRUPT to global construction brand - In this episode of Trade Legends, Alex sits down with Mark from StealthMounts, the innovative company revolutionising construction tool storage and organisation. From near bankruptcy with one business to making millions with another. Mark shares the fascinating journey of StealthMounts, from eBay to how StealthMounts grew into a globally recognised construction tool brand.Mark opens up about the major challenges faced along the way, including near-bankruptcy during the COVID lockdown with his horticulture business, and how quick thinking and adaptability kept the business alive. The discussion also covers their successful expansion into the Australian and American markets, their strategy for staying ahead of copycat competitors through constant innovation, and plans for future growth, including moving into the automotive and plumbing sectors.

Guest this week: Mark @StealthMounts Host:Alex @bigaltradelegends (Insta)