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U Spray with Mitch and Toddy

U Spray with Mitch and Toddy

By: Mitch Baird
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Welcome to The U Spray Podcast with Mitch and Toddy – your go-to hub for spray painting tips, tools, and industry insights. Whether you’re a professional painter or a DIY renovator, this podcast will help you master your spray equipment and achieve better results, faster. Each episode dives into the best spray painting techniques, equipment know-how, and industry trends so you can get the most out of your tools, strengthen relationships with suppliers and customers, and grow your painting business. With practical advice, expert conversations, and behind-the-scenes insights, you’ll stay ahead of the curve and get access to knowledge that most sprayers don’t share. Meet Your Hosts Toddy – An American spray expert who began his career with Sherwin-Williams in 2008. After years working between the US and Australia, he permanently moved Down Under and joined the painting team at Bunnings, where he connected with key industry mentors who shaped his career. Mitch – An Australian painter with 20 years of hands-on experience. Starting at just 18, he turned a casual house-painting job into a career through word of mouth. Over time, Mitch developed a passion for spray painting, refining his skills and eventually teaming up with Toddy to share their combined expertise. Why Listen to U Spray? Learn how to use your spray gun and painting equipment to its full potential Gain an insider’s perspective on the spray painting industry Stay updated with the latest spray gun innovations and painting techniques Get real-world advice from two trusted industry professionals Stay Connected with The Spray Gun Club For resources, updates, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content: Website: thespraygunclub.com.au Instagram: @thespraygunclub | @yo_painters Facebook: The Spray Gun Club | Todd Smith YouTube: The Spray Gun Club Have a question or want to suggest a podcast topic? Contact us via socials, email info@thespraygunclub.com.auor call 1300 U SPRAYCopyright 2026 Mitch Baird
Episodes
  • 39. Spray, Pricing, and Profit: The Business Talk Painters Need
    Mar 18 2026

    This week on the U Spray Podcast, Mitch and Toddy dive into the business realities painters and spray painting contractors are facing right now.

    From rising costs and tight margins to the ongoing struggle of finding and retaining good staff in the painting industry, they unpack why so many painters are working harder than ever but still not seeing the profits they should.


    The conversation explores pricing strategy for painters, why being booked out months in advance might actually be a warning sign, and how improving efficiency through spray painting equipment and systems can help painting businesses create stronger profit margins.


    They also challenge the mindset many painters have around paint brands, accreditation, and supplier loyalty. Are painters relying too heavily on logos instead of backing their own skill, reputation, and value in the market?


    Along the way, they tackle broader industry pressures—including the impact of programs like the NDIS on the labour market—and why small trade businesses need to take a harder look at their numbers if they want to stay competitive.


    If you're a professional painter, spray contractor, or trade business owner looking to improve profitability, pricing, and productivity, this episode delivers a candid and practical discussion.



    Today’s Takeaways:


    • If you're booked out months in advance, your painting prices may be too low.

    • Profit margins—not just sales—are what determine a healthy painting business.

    • Spray painting systems can significantly improve productivity and reduce labour costs.

    • Many painters rely too heavily on paint brands instead of their own expertise.

    • Reviewing supplier pricing can uncover major paint cost savings.

    • Rising wages and labour shortages are putting pressure on trade businesses.

    • Improving efficiency, pricing strategy, and business systems is key to long-term success in the painting industry.



    Connect With Us:


    Instagram: @thespraygunclub

    Toddy’s Instagram: @yo_painters

    Facebook: The Spray Gun Club

    Website: www.thespraygunclub.com.au

    YouTube: @thespraygunclub

    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
  • 38. The QuickShot Debate: Why So Many Painters Get It Wrong
    Mar 11 2026

    This week on the U Spray Podcast, Mitch and Toddy unpack the QuickShot debate — and where most painters are going wrong.

    From hands-on service centre experience to on-site application mistakes, they break down the pros and cons of compact sprayers, common warranty issues, pump failures, solenoid problems, and why usage habits matter more than most painters realise.

    They also tackle broader industry conversations — poor tip selection, under-application of paint, warranty misconceptions, and the uncomfortable truth about accountability in the trade. When does convenience actually cost you more? And how much of what goes wrong is product failure versus user error?

    If you're thinking about buying a QuickShot, upgrading your machine, or simply avoiding costly mistakes with your spray setup, this episode is essential listening.

    Today's Takeaways:

    • QuickShots work — but only if used correctly and consistently.

    • Infrequent use is one of the biggest causes of pump and seal failure.

    • Warranty claims often come from improper maintenance or storage.

    • Tip selection directly impacts finish quality, durability, and performance.

    • Under-applying paint can cause premature failure — not faulty products.

    • Knowing your equipment and entitlements protects your bottom line.

    • Service and support are just as important as the machine itself.


    Connect With Us:

    Instagram: @thespraygunclub

    Toddy’s Instagram: @yo_painters

    Facebook: The Spray Gun Club

    Website: www.thespraygunclub.com.au

    YouTube: @thespraygunclub

    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
  • 37. 75 Hard for Tradies Building Discipline, Mental Strength, & Better Habits
    Mar 4 2026

    On this episode of the U Spray Podcast, Mitch and Toddy dive into 75 Hard for tradies — breaking down discipline, accountability, and the habits that separate average operators from high performers.

    They unpack why 75 Hard isn't just a fitness challenge, but a mental toughness and structure reset — especially after the Christmas slowdown. From two daily workouts and reading 10 pages a day, to eliminating negotiation with yourself, the boys explain how small daily wins compound into stronger focus, better energy, and clearer decision-making in business.

    The conversation also expands into tradie mental health, proactive stress management, and the importance of accountability — both on-site and at home. They reflect on industry culture, sharing knowledge versus gatekeeping, and why choosing "hard" now often leads to better outcomes later.

    If you're looking to build discipline, sharpen your mindset, and step up both personally and professionally in 2026, this episode is for you.

    Today's Takeaways

    • 75 Hard is an accountability challenge, not just a fitness program.

    • Small daily wins build long-term discipline and mental resilience.

    • Eliminating self-negotiation strengthens character and consistency.

    • Proactive stress management is critical for business owners and tradies.

    • Choosing "hard" in the short term often creates better long-term results.

    • Strong routines improve focus, energy, and overall performance on-site.


    Connect With Us

    Instagram: @thespraygunclub

    Toddy’s Instagram: @yo_painters

    Facebook: The Spray Gun Club

    Website: www.thespraygunclub.com.au

    YouTube: @thespraygunclub

    Show More Show Less
    29 mins
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