In episode 80 of the Workforce Skills Podcast, John Morris gets real about the challenges of running a business when cash flow is tight. From dealing with slow-paying general contractors to the reality of making payroll, John shares his philosophy on persistence, leadership, and why employees must always come first. He opens up about his own struggles as an employer, the importance of cutting expenses without cutting corners, and why staying positive in difficult times creates stronger leaders and stronger teams. This is a raw, honest conversation about resilience, leadership, and building a company that thrives—even when times get tough.

In this episode of Workforce Skills with John Morris, John opens up about the challenges of addiction in the workplace and the importance of accountability, sobriety, and second chances. From pickle juice pops to keep crews healthy in the Phoenix heat, to the difficult conversations around employee substance use, John shares his experiences leading by example and holding his team to higher standards.

Special guest Mike Nightingale joins the conversation, reflecting on his own journey from addiction to five years sober and his growth within PHP Commercial Painting. Together, they discuss the reality of recovery, the importance of community support, and why lasting change only happens when someone is ready to make it.

This is a raw and powerful episode about responsibility, leadership, and the fight to be stronger than addiction.

In this episode of Workforce Skills, John Morris talks about how to thrive during slow periods at work, the value of taking any opportunity you can get, and why being “selfish” for your own growth is the key to long-term success. From hustling side jobs to taking on work outside your comfort zone, John challenges you to focus solely on yourself and your career for the next six months — and watch how your life changes.

The job market is wide open — are you ready to show up or sit out? In this episode, John Morris fires off some truth about the 4.18 million people retiring this year, the one million open construction jobs, and the 192 million job openings expected over the next decade. He shares the inspiring story of DJ — a former employee and second-chance hire who went from prison to owning his own painting company — and challenges listeners to stop blaming and start grinding. Whether you’re new to the trades or thinking about the next generation taking over your business, this episode is a wake-up call to take a long, honest look at your attitude, your work ethic, and your future.

In this powerful episode of Workforce Skills, John Morris sits down with Chasity—a new team member at PHP—whose story of grit, growth, and second chances will inspire anyone facing adversity. After spending 13 years incarcerated, Chasity taught herself full-stack development through The Last Mile program and later became a TA helping others inside. Now working in data entry for PHP, she shares her incredible journey of reentry, the barriers women face after incarceration, and the determination it takes to rebuild a life with purpose. If you’ve ever questioned whether change is possible, this episode proves it is.

In this powerful 75th episode, John Morris reflects on a week full of progress, transformation, and positive energy. From hiring three new team members out of the New Freedom vocational program to watching a former student become a licensed painting contractor, John shares the emotional highs and valuable lessons that come with helping others level up in life. He dives into what it really means to find your “beast mode,” how to stay motivated, and why personal accountability and treating others with respect can change everything. This is a must-listen episode for anyone who’s striving to grow—no matter where they started.

In Episode 74, John Morse shares powerful stories from inside the New Freedom vocational program—stories of transformation, second chances, and what it really means to start over. From overcoming addiction and reconnecting with family to learning basic life skills like budgeting and hygiene, this episode highlights the incredible growth of men and women rebuilding their lives after incarceration or homelessness. John also reflects on the importance of doing quality work with pride and integrity, calling out the dangers of cutting corners and the value of getting it right the first time. Plus, he’s looking for a new instructor to join the team and help guide the next wave of change-makers.

In Episode 73, John Morse tackles a topic many professionals face but few address: getting too comfortable on the job. John shares real-world experiences from the field and the office, including what happens when communication breaks down, when employees coast instead of grind, and how being “too relaxed” can cost you your job. He reminds us that growth takes grit, and success belongs to those who stay hungry. Tune in for a motivating push to keep your foot on the gas—no matter where you are in your career.