Behind the Tools podcast is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world. Each episode we bring on a guest to answer the real questions you have about life in the trades, running a business, and how to overcome the challenges that come with being a tradesperson. If you're keen to join us as a guest, send an email to [email protected] Brought to you by Tradify — the job management app trusted by 30,000+ tradespeople.
…
continue reading

1
#59 - Running a Business With Your Significant Other With Alex Van Dam (Queens Workwear)
24:12
24:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:12Alex Van Dam, co-founder of New Zealand-based workwear company, Queens Workwear, joins the show this week! Alex discusses how personal mental health struggles drove her to find success and go out on her own, alongside her partener. If you or someone you know is in need of help, contact a helpline: UK (Samaritans) - 116 123 AU (Lifeline) - 13 11 14 …
…
continue reading

1
#58 - Taking a Stand Against Mental Health Stigma With With Rob Muldoon (MYH Podcast)
33:01
33:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:01Mental health is an ongoing issue in the trades industry. With the stigma and closed-off attitude toward finding help, it can be hard to give a hand to those who need it or even to find personal support. For Mental Health Awareness week, Rob talks us through his own struggles with mental health and offers advice to anyone who wants to fight against…
…
continue reading

1
#57 - How To Reduce Your Insurance Premiums With Jennifer Steger (Trade Risk)
23:54
23:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:54Worried your insurance premiums might be too high? Jennifer joins us to talk through the best ways to keep your premiums low, avoid risk in the workplace, and share why she thinks insuring your business is a non-negotiable. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world. Each episode we bring on a guest to answer the rea…
…
continue reading

1
#56 - How To Build Your Own Tiny House With Sophie Jack (@Sophie_TheBuilder)
27:25
27:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:25Sophie joins us to talk about the process of building her own tiny house, making big career changes later in life, and how she’s promoting women in trades through podcasting. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world. Each episode we bring on a guest to answer the real questions you have about life in the trades, ru…
…
continue reading

1
#055 - Overcoming the Trade Labour Shortage With Kent Willis (Apprentice Recruit)
37:17
37:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:17Struggling to navigate the trade labour shortage? Whether you’re an employer or an aspiring apprentice, Kent Willis from Apprentice Recruit has you covered with his top tips for finding the right fit. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world. In each episode, we bring on a guest to answer the real questions you hav…
…
continue reading

1
#054 - How To Revive a Struggling Business With Andy & Angela (Lifestyle Tradie)
35:07
35:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:07Feeling like your business could do with a boost? Listen to Lifestyle Tradie’s Angela and Andy as they share some tips for bringing a business back to life, setting yourself up for success, and believing in your ability to create a profitable business. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world. Each episode we bring…
…
continue reading

1
#053 - Preparing for Price Changes & Alternatives to Apprenticeships With Jack Cutler (JRC Electrical)
30:46
30:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:46Struggling to quote with the unpredictable supply prices? You’ll want to tune in to this week’s episode with Jack Cutler from JRC electrical as he runs us through his quoting tips & tricks. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world. In each episode we bring on a guest to answer the real questions you have about life…
…
continue reading

1
#052 - Training Your Body for Your Trade With Zac Lowth (Australian Physiotherapy Association)
23:09
23:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:09Do you come home feeling stiff and sore after working on the tools all day? Tune in to our latest podcast episode for tips on how to prime your body for your trade. Goodbye aches and pains! 👋 Zac Lowth from the Australian Physiotherapy Association explains it all. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world. Each epis…
…
continue reading

1
#051 - The Future of On-Site Parts Delivery With Harry Tyndall (Snap It)
25:29
25:29
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:29This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Harry Tyndall to the show. Harry is the CRO of Snap It, a fast-growing UK tech start-up that provides an on-demand delivery service for tradespeople. Join Harry and our host Michael as they talk about how tradespeople can save time with on-site parts delivery, the case for ditching pen & paper, …
…
continue reading

1
#050 - Building Culture in a Trade Business With Anne Timpany (White Star Property Services)
30:52
30:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:52This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Anne Timpany to the show. Anne is a Tradify board member & businessperson who has owned successful trade businesses in both the UK and New Zealand. She currently runs White Star Property Services in Wanaka, New Zealand. Join Anne and our host Michael as they talk about what to watch out for when…
…
continue reading

1
#049 - Encouraging Individuality With Willow Rolton (Build With Willow)
26:27
26:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:27This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Willow Rolton to the show. Willow is a construction apprentice based in Queenstown, New Zealand. Join Willow and our host Michael as they talk about her unconventional path to the trades, embracing who you are, and encouraging others to try something new. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tr…
…
continue reading

1
#048 - Boosting Profitability With Andrew Burrows (The Trades Coach)
32:32
32:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:32This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Andrew Burrows to the show. Andrew is the owner of The Trades Coach, a New Zealand-based business coaching company tailored to tradespeople. Join Andrew and our host Michael as they talk about pricing, profit, and getting ahead of trends before they get ahead of you. Behind the Tools is an insid…
…
continue reading

1
#047 - Making Connections With Devina & Josh (DryGutts)
43:34
43:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:34This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Josh & Devina to the show. Josh & Devina run DryGutts, an exterior cleaning business based in Waikato, New Zealand. Join Josh, Devina, and our host Michael as they talk about networking, getting organised, and job diversity. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the wo…
…
continue reading

1
#046 - Harnessing the Power of Social Media With Alex Insley (Unilite)
37:52
37:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:52This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Alex Insley to the show. Alex is the CEO of Unilite Limited, a UK-based work light manufacturer that is pushing the boundaries of what a tool company can and should be. Join Alex and our host Michael as they talk about hiring the right people, finding inspiration in unlikely places, and the valu…
…
continue reading

1
#045 - All Things Van Wrapping With Matt Adams (Tradie Wraps by MotoSign)
31:25
31:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:25This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Matt Adams to the show. Matt is the founder of Tradie Wraps by MotoSign, a top-notch van wrapping & signwriting company based in Victoria, Australia. Join Matt and our host Michael as they talk about the origin of Tradie Wraps, what makes a good van wrap, and using QR codes to drum up business. …
…
continue reading

1
#044 - Recognising Red Flags in Enquiries With Jarrad Sharp (Sharp Air Conditioning)
30:28
30:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:28This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Jarrad Sharp to the show. Jarrad is the owner/operator of Sharp Air Conditioning, a successful commercial and residential AC business in Perth, Australia. Join Jarrad and our host Michael as they talk about the best way to build a reputation, red flags to look out for in customers, and how to ma…
…
continue reading

1
#043 - Apprentice Advice with Kelvin Townsend (KTec Electrical)
26:41
26:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:41This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Kelvin Townsend to the show. Kelvin is the owner/operator of K-Tec Electrics, a successful electrical business in South Devon, England. Join Kelvin and our host Michael as they talk about taking on apprentices, the importance of taking pride in your work & making connections for commercial work!…
…
continue reading

1
#042 - Taking Accounting Digital With Sue de Bievre (Beany Accounting)
25:57
25:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:57This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Sue de Bievre to the show. Sue is the founder of Beany Accounting, a team of online accountants. Join Sue and our host Michael as they talk about optimistic tax claims, incremental improvements, and setting up the right systems for success! Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from…
…
continue reading

1
#041 - Finding Success as a Late Starter With Graham Meadowcroft (Dreamy Electrics)
27:52
27:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:52This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Graham Meadowcroft to the show. Graham is the owner/operator of Dreamy Electrics, a successful electrical business in Helensburgh, Scotland. Join Graham and our host Michael as they talk about taking on the trades later in life, winning work through diversity, and the future of the electrical in…
…
continue reading

1
#040 - Embracing the Unknown With Ben Greenwood (Ready Set Paint)
26:50
26:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:50This week on the Behind the Tools podcast, we welcome Ben Greenwood to the show. Ben is the owner/operator of Ready Set Paint, a successful painting business in Adelaide, Australia. Join Ben and our host Michael as they talk about scoring new jobs, staying ahead of the game, and embracing the unknown! Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeo…
…
continue reading
On our final episode celebrating Women in Trades Month 2022, we welcome Lisa Sheppard to the show. After working as a dental nurse in Wales, UK, Lisa decided to switch things up and become a gas engineer. Join Lisa and our host Michael as they talk about what makes the trades so enjoyable and why it’s never too late to make a change! Behind the Too…
…
continue reading

1
#038 - Exceeding Expectations With Sophie Maguire
27:47
27:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:47On our third episode celebrating Women in Trades Month, we welcome Sophie Maguire to the show. Sophie is currently completing her plumbing apprenticeship in Norfolk, United Kingdom. Join Sophie and our host Michael as they talk about standing up to outdated ideas, exceeding expectations, and encouraging the younger generation to pick up the tools! …
…
continue reading

1
#037 - Choosing the Trades After School With Pauline Varlet
27:05
27:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:05On our second episode celebrating Women in Trades Month, we welcome Pauline Varlet to the show. Pauline is an electrician and social media sensation based in Christchurch, New Zealand. Join Pauline and our host Michael as they talk about women in trades, scoring sponsorships, and having the courage to make a change! Behind the Tools is an inside lo…
…
continue reading

1
#036 - Building a Community With Verity Hare (TradieWives)
30:43
30:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:43To kick off Women in Trades Month, we welcome Verity Hare to the show. Verity is the founder of TradieWives, a collaboration platform that supports wives and partners of tradies. She’s also the co-founder/director of a landscaping business in Sydney, Australia, along with her husband, Craig. Join Verity and our host Michael as they talk about women…
…
continue reading

1
#035 - How Tradespeople are Tackling 2022 With Matt Jones (The Site Shed)
47:21
47:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:21This Week, Michael sits down with Matt Jones on the Site Shed Podcast to discuss Tradify's latest Pulse report — an annual report we create based on the thoughts and opinions of hundreds of tradespeople around the world. The Site Shed podcast is dedicated to tradespeople, exploring everything from technology in the workspace, right through to appre…
…
continue reading

1
#034 - Winning with Word of Mouth with Andrew Lewis (2 Ezy Tiling)
35:04
35:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:04This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Andrew Lewis to the show. Andrew is the owner/operator of 2 Ezy Tiling, a tiling business based in Victoria, Australia. Join Andrew and our host Michael as they talk about tiling trends, word of mouth, and taking pride in a job well done. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the …
…
continue reading

1
#033 - Inspiring the Next Generation of Tradies with Jesse & Logan (Trade Collective)
46:27
46:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:27This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Jesse & Logan to the show. Jesse & Logan are the co-founders of Trade Collective, a collective aimed at getting students hyped about trades. Join Jesse, Logan, and our host Michael as they talk about smashing stigmas, getting your foot in the door, and the dos and don'ts of being an apprentice. Behind the T…
…
continue reading
For this very special episode of Behind the Tools, join podcast host and Tradify CEO Michael Steckler as he takes us back through the best bits we've seen so far. We've put together some of the best bants, trade business tips, and other helpful hints that stood out to us this year. Enjoy! Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all …
…
continue reading

1
#031 - Cranky Customers With Joshua Bice (Rapid Fire Protection)
30:46
30:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:46This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Joshua Bice to the show. Joshua runs Rapid Fire Protection in North Carolina, a family business specializing in fire safety. Join Josh and our host Michael as they talk about suppression systems, cranky customers, and being brave about starting a business. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople …
…
continue reading

1
#030 - Pricing Jobs With John Szabo (JS Plastering)
39:59
39:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:59This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Jon Szabo to the show. Jon runs JS Plastering in Mildura, Victoria. Join Jon and our host Michael as they talk about pricing pitfalls, winning work, and becoming a better boss. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world. Each episode we bring on a guest to answer the real que…
…
continue reading

1
#029 - Training Tradies With Hayden Wright (Tile Warehouse Nelson)
35:03
35:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:03This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Hayden Wright to the show. Hayden has been a tiler for 18 years and is currently working for Tile Warehouse Nelson, in New Zealand. Join Hayden and our host Michael as they talk about tiling trends, training new tradies, and finding time for family. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from al…
…
continue reading

1
#028 - Starting From Scratch With Jarrad Burns (Grove Plumbing & Gas)
31:52
31:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:52This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Jarrad Burns to the show. Jarrad runs Grove Plumbing & Gas in Adelaide, Australia. Join Jarrad and our host Michael as they talk about starting from scratch, who to hire first, and plumbing in prison. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world. Each episode we bring on a gues…
…
continue reading

1
#027 - Mastering Marketing With Anne Timpany (On Tap Plumbers)
38:35
38:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:35This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Anne Timpany to the show. Anne is an award-winning entrepreneur and plumbing business extraordinaire. Join Anne and our host Michael as they talk about marketing mastery, ballooning businesses, and how success can sometimes be scary. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over the world…
…
continue reading

1
#026 - Advertising With Keith Rees-Murray (KRP Electrical)
34:07
34:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:07This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Keith Rees-Murray to the show. Keith runs KRP Electrical with his wife Amanda and apprentice Lee in Cornwall, England. Join Keith and our host Michael as they talk about attentive advertising, testing technology, and taking your time to train. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over…
…
continue reading

1
#025 - Company Culture With Miles, Ben & Aaron Astley (Astley Electrical)
34:33
34:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:33This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome the Astleys to the show. Miles Astley runs Astley Electrical with his two sons Ben and Aaron in NSW, Australia. Join the Astleys and our host Michael as they talk about knowing your numbers, company culture, and creating customers for life. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all over th…
…
continue reading

1
#024 - Honesty & Apprenticeships With Mike Humphries (Green Hawk Construction)
41:50
41:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:50This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Mike Humphries to the show. Mike is a co-owner of Green Hawk Construction, a Warwickshire-based company covering three different trades: electrical, plumbing, and construction. Join Mike and our host Michael as they talk about collecting cars, operating with honesty, and his unique approach to apprenticeshi…
…
continue reading

1
#023 - Growing Local With Sean Brown (Brown & Brown Builders)
33:35
33:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:35This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Sean Brown to the show. Sean owns Brown & Brown Builders, a small crew of carpenters specialising in home renovations. Join Sean and our host Michael as they talk about local labouring, grappling with growth, and an appreciation for apprentices. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople from all ov…
…
continue reading

1
#022 - Building & Growing Your Business With Jon Mailer (PROTRADE United)
35:20
35:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:20This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Jon Mailer to the show. Jon is CEO at ProTrade United, working to connect business coaches and mentors with trade business owners. Join Jon and our host Michael as they talk about forming a foundation, building your trade business, and guiding its growth. Behind the Tools is an inside look at tradespeople f…
…
continue reading

1
#021 - Workplace Wellness With Slade McFarland (Mates in Construction)
44:37
44:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:37This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Slade McFarland to the show. Slade works for Mates in Construction, a charity dedicated to reducing the high levels of suicide in the construction industry. Join Slade and our host Michael as they talk about troubles in the trades, workmate wellness, and the need for courage in construction. If you're keen …
…
continue reading

1
#020 - Creating Business Connections With Chris Collins (Grizlec)
26:35
26:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:35This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Chris Collins to the show. Chris runs Grizlec, an electrical and air-conditioning business in Melbourne, Australia. Join Chris and our host Michael as they talk about risk vs reward, pesty possums, and creating business connections. If you're keen to be a guest on Behind the Tools, send an email to behindth…
…
continue reading

1
#019 - Changing Careers With John Taylor (K9 Weed Detection)
33:28
33:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:28This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome John Taylor to the show. John runs K9 Weed Detection out of Invercargill, New Zealand, where he and his dog Wink track down and destroy invasive plant species. Join John and our host Michael as they talk about stacking up skills, changing careers, and putting an end to pests in New Zealand. If you're keen t…
…
continue reading

1
#018 - Mental Health Support With Ed Ross (TradeMutt)
30:39
30:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:39This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Ed Ross to the show. Ed’s from TradeMutt, an Australian workwear brand providing professional mental health support to tradies, truckies, and blue-collar workers. If you or someone you know are in need of help, please reach out: UK (Samaritans) - 116 123 AU (Lifeline) - 13 11 14 https://mates.org.au/ NZ (Li…
…
continue reading

1
#017 - Tackling Tough Times With John McGrath (Man In Shed)
29:06
29:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:06This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome John McGrath to the show. John is a self-employed electrician from Mooncoin, Ireland, with over 20 years of experience in the trades. He also runs ‘Man In Shed’, a popular YouTube channel all about making things, from woodworking to electrical work, tools and tool reviews. Join John and our host Michael as …
…
continue reading

1
#016 - Financial Priorities With Alison Warner (Evolve and Grow Coaching)
41:53
41:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:53This week on Behind the Tools we welcome Alison Warner to the show. Alison is the founder of Evolve and Grow Coaching in London, England, specialising in business coaching for construction and trade businesses. Join Alison and our host Michael as they talk about personal priorities, financial fears, and an eco-friendly future. If you're keen to be …
…
continue reading

1
#015 - Starting an HVAC Business With Tara Mcilvenie (Connect Air & Refrigeration)
30:56
30:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:56This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Tara Mcilvenie to the show. Tara and her husband Rob run Connect Air and Refrigeration in Winmalee, a town in the misty Blue Mountains of NSW, Australia. Their busy HVAC business has five staff servicing both residential and commercial properties. Join Tara and our host Michael as they talk about starting f…
…
continue reading

1
#014 - Trade Students & Apprentices With Rachel Griffiths (@plumbingbyrach)
35:04
35:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:04This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Rachel Griffiths to the show. Rachel owns half a local plumbing business in Flintshire, North Wales, providing maintenance, repair and installation services. Join Rachel and our host Michael as they talk about supporting students, winning work, and advancing as an apprentice. If you're keen to be a guest on…
…
continue reading

1
#013 - Subcontracting & Hiring With Brad & Shane Rawson (Morphett Air)
47:06
47:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:06This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Brad and Shane Rawson to the show. These two brothers run Morphett Air, a 50-year-old HVAC company in Adelaide, South Australia. Join Brad, Shane, and our host Michael as they talk about successful subcontracting, wangling workers, and diversifying to avoid downtime. If you're keen to be a guest on Behind t…
…
continue reading

1
#012 - Apprentices & Mental Health With Peter Booth (PB Plumber)
42:00
42:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:00This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Peter Booth (aka PB Plumber) to the show. Peter is a third-generation plumber and gas engineer running his own business in Loughborough, Leicestershire. Join Peter and our host Michael as they talk about his approach to apprenticing, tool theft, and men’s mental health. If you're keen to be a guest on Behin…
…
continue reading

1
#011 - Starting a Business With Amy Barratt-Singh (Amy the Sparky)
35:59
35:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:59This week on Behind the Tools, we welcome Amy Barratt-Singh to the show. Amy runs her own electrical business ‘Amy the Sparky’ and podcast, Women in Trades, from her home in Packington, Leicestershire. Join Amy and our host Michael as they talk about starting a trade at 28, making money, and sexist sceptics. If you're keen to be a guest on Behind t…
…
continue reading

1
#010 - Recruitment & Culture With Ryan Englin (Blue Collar Culture)
31:50
31:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:50This week on Behind the Tools, we talk hiring with Ryan Englin. Based in Arizona, Ryan runs Core Matters, a company that helps trade business owners attract & hire good workers. Join Ryan and our host Michael as they talk about recruitment red flags, considering company culture, and instructions for interviewing. If you're keen to be a guest on Beh…
…
continue reading