Best Andy Vargo Podcasts (2025)

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Milwaukee Pipeline: Next-Gen Packout with Matt Vargo 24:36

Play Pause

2h ago24:36

24:36

From the original Packout boxes to the brand-new Packout Rack system, Milwaukee has turned storage into a full ecosystem. In this Pipeline sit-down, Eric and Andy talk with Matt Vargo, manager of the Packout division, about how tradespeople influence design, where the system is heading, and how these racks change the way tools live on and off the j…

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Milwaukee Pipeline: Heated Gear & Workwear with Wes Thomas 29:43

3h ago29:43

29:43

We sat down at Milwaukee Pipeline with Wes Thomas, head of Milwaukee’s workwear division, to talk about the new heated gear system and how their workwear is designed like tools—built for safety, performance, and the job site. This episode takes you behind the scenes of the innovation shaping how tradespeople stay warm, protected, and productive. Se…

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Risky Business 28:19

7d ago28:19

28:19

In this conversation, Eric and Andy discuss the complexities and challenges faced in construction projects, particularly focusing on risk management, equipment delays, and unexpected complications. They share insights from a recent project involving HVAC equipment replacement and the impact of supply chain issues on timelines and costs. The discuss…

1
5 Years of Make Trades Great Again podcasting 24:55

14d ago24:55

24:55

In this episode of the Make Trades Great Again podcast, hosts Eric and Andy discuss their journey over the past five years, including the technical difficulties they often face, their experiences with realtors and home inspections, and the importance of using checklists in their service work. They reflect on their growth as podcasters and the lesso…

1
How to Stay Authentic in a World of Expectations: A Conversation with Amber Bate 50:07

28d ago50:07

50:07

Ready to embrace your authentic self? Start by owning your awkward. Book Andy Vargo for coaching or speaking opportunities at https://www.awkwardcareer.com/In this episode of the Own Your Awkward Podcast, I sit down with Amber Bate, a storyteller, real estate expert, and modern-day muse. Together, we explore what it means to live authentically in a…

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Risk Profit Over Experience 27:30

29d ago27:30

27:30

In this episode of the Make Trades Great Again podcast, hosts Eric Aune and Andy Mickelson discuss how to expand skills as a business owner without compromising customer service. They explore the challenges of tackling new installations, the importance of learning from experience, and how to balance customer expectations with the need for personal …

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4 Day Work Week? 32:57

29d ago32:57

32:57

A group of research scientists have been working with small business and major corporations alike to study the effects of a four day work week…and it’s likely not what you think. Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_…

1
MTGA With The Lucas Cazaly Part 2 1:03:35

1M ago1:03:35

1:03:35

Luke Cazaly joins the guys for another hour of great conversation covering multiple topics. We are so thankful to all our guests and you, the listener for tuning in each week! Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_ema…

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Close More Jobs Faster 36:25

1M ago36:25

36:25

Denver Baker, owner of MD Heating is in the virtual studio this week to talk about his success implementing project financing for his customers. Denver is a long-time friend and fan of the pod, he's joined us in the past to talk other business topics and for a great discussion on EV Service vehicles (See that here: https://youtu.be/PntUWOGWr-o) Sen…

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The Power of Positivity in Media with Michael Driver 38:36

1M ago38:36

38:36

In this heartfelt and energizing episode of the Own Your Awkward Podcast, I sit down with Emmy Award-winning photojournalist Michael Driver to talk about finding the beauty in everyday stories, embracing our quirks, and living a life full of purpose. Michael shares wisdom from his 20+ years in media, including lessons from his time on the reality T…

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Talking Business & Outback with Luke Cazaly 1:03:02

2M ago1:03:02

1:03:02

Australian Luke Cazaly is the owner of Flametech Heating & Cooling. Luke is a longtime friend of the pod, it was fun catching up with him and talking business and family. Thanks Luke! Takeaways Luke has been in the heating and cooling industry for 16 years. Using software like Service Mate has streamlined his operations. Market research helped him …

1
Bid Work vs. Time and Material 27:28

2M ago27:28

27:28

Eric and Andy discuss the complexities and challenges of managing construction projects, particularly in the plumbing sector. They share real-world scenarios that highlight the importance of proper project management, the necessity of permits, and the impact of customer expectations on project timelines. The discussion also delves into the differen…

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The Art Of The Deal? 24:49

2M ago24:49

24:49

In this conversation, the guys discuss the complexities of hvac projects, pricing strategies, and the importance of customer communication in the HVAC industry. They share personal experiences and insights on how to effectively engage with customers, manage expectations, and highlight the value of quality components. The discussion also touches on …

1
Mail Call: Answering MTGA listener questions 37:27

3M ago37:27

37:27

We love reading your questions and comments. Keep sending them! This week the guys talk partnerships, contracts, marketing during a slowdown and more. Eric owns a media company along with his business partner John Mesenbrink (host of the Appetite for Construction podcast) so he's had over ten years of experience in this area. Send us a text Send us…

1
Handling Last Minute Changes on Install Day 29:44

3M ago29:44

29:44

The very last thing I want to do as the contractor is make a not-so-great situation worse" Andy Mickelson What happens when you figure out there's a problem on the job, how you handle it says a lot about you as a company/service provider. This week the guys are talking recent jobs and problems and an amazing tax credit/rebate situation happening in…

1
A little of this and that on WHAT WE LIKE 33:05

3M ago33:05

33:05

Somewhat of a chat session this week. The guys talk about some products they really like, lots of talk on equipment and piping fittings/materials that make everyday a little faster/easier/enjoyable. Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up…

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Why does Eric hate this supplier? 24:51

3M ago24:51

24:51

Have we become too complacent when it comes to ordering online? Its 2025 and yet, somehow and for whatever reason this online supplier is asking for four forms of order verification and signatures upon delivery for regular, everyday plumbing and hvac material orders lol! Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channel…

1
How old is too old to start in the trades? 23:59

3M ago23:59

23:59

Would you hire someone with zero trade work experience? What if they're in their 30's? How old is too old to start in the trades? Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email…

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Lowest Bidders 29:55

4M ago29:55

29:55

Are you the low bid? Are you being beat by the low bidder but offering a more complete job, is it apple to apples? This week the guys chat about a recent encounter Eric had on the job with another local plumber. Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsl…

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Awkward Leadership with Coach Angie Jones 1:02:14

4M ago1:02:14

1:02:14

Ready to turn awkward into your advantage? Andy Vargo empowers individuals and organizations to lead with authenticity through coaching, keynotes, and courses. 👉 Explore how you can Own Your Awkward: https://awkwardcareer.comIn this insightful episode, Andy welcomes Coach Angie Jones of Ataruka Coaching to explore the intersection of leadership, gr…

1
Buy Now, Pay Later? 17:31

4M ago17:31

17:31

Our customer's finances are feeling the pinch more than ever as prices are the highest on record. Inflation, tariffs, shipping backlogs are just some of the bigger problems on the product side but a big part of the general population is finding it difficult manage unexpected bills. Eric is now offering financing and Andy is looking into it for his …

1
Accurate Estimates for Plumbing and HVAC 19:49

4M ago19:49

19:49

This isn't a how-to guide, let's get that out of the way immediately. The guys chat about the accuracy of estimates, whether the price of a job changes when things are missed AND how some companies operate on the "low upfront bid" and tack on the add-ons as the job progresses. Have experience or thoughts to share? Please do! Send us a text Send us …

1
Awkward & Badass with Marie Sonneman 39:03

4M ago39:03

39:03

Ready to turn awkward into your advantage? Andy Vargo empowers individuals and organizations to lead with authenticity through coaching, keynotes, and courses. 👉 Explore how you can Own Your Awkward: https://awkwardcareer.com In this raw, real, and empowering conversation, Andy Vargo and Marie Sonneman dive deep into the challenges of building conf…

1
Should We Buy USA Made? 31:53

4M ago31:53

31:53

As supply chains and tariffs are making running our service and construction businesses increasingly more difficult, is there benefit to buying only US? Do our customers care? Are they willing to pay more for products made in the US? Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Micke…

1
Forging Partnerships 17:17

4M ago17:17

17:17

Eric's been working on a plan to partner with local builders for water conditioning in new construction homes and Andy talks about something similar they've been doing with a local general contractor in an affluent Missoula neighborhood. Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy M…

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Awkward Psychological Safety with Melissa Hughes Ph.D. 41:21

4M ago41:21

41:21

Ready to turn awkward into your advantage? Andy Vargo empowers individuals and organizations to lead with authenticity through coaching, keynotes, and courses. 👉 Explore how you can Own Your Awkward: https://awkwardcareer.com 🎙️ Today’s Guest: Dr. Melissa Hughes Dr. Melissa Hughes returns to the show to dive deep into psychological safety, the powe…

1
No Custy? No Work! 24:02

5M ago24:02

24:02

Some recent changes to standard operating procedures were in order for Andy's plumbing & heating shop, Eric's making the change too. Do you work in client's home's when no one is there? Should you? Give this one a listen and let us know what you think by sending us a message using the link below! Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas …

1
Andy's bougie new Veto bag! 56:24

6M ago56:24

56:24

New tools are great but new tool bags are awesome! Andy gives us a close look at his latest addition, the Veto Pro Pac Hybrid Tool and Meter bag (SB-LD) This episode is best viewed on the MH youtube channel: https://youtu.be/RjQVIcKgg7k Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mi…

1
Live from AHR Expo: Milwaukee Tool’s John Jarzombek 30:46

7M ago30:46

30:46

Ever wonder how Milwaukee Tool decides what to build next or how they test them? Our guest John Jarzombek is a project manager at Milwaukee Tool. John has personally managed teams developing tools such as the MX Fuel Pipe Threader, the new roll groover, The Ringer and more. It was fun to have John join us in Orlando at the AHR Expo podcasts pavilli…

1
Live from AHR w/ Mike Cameron 27:48

7M ago27:48

27:48

Are gas absorption heat pumps a viable alternative to the electrification of our heating and cooling systems? Mike Cameron is a longtime Canadian friend working in Vancouver, BC. Mike installs and services a lot of the GAHP units, some are only prototypes but all are performing impressively. Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over …

1
Get Connected! Tips on building a solid support team 33:44

7M ago33:44

33:44

Building relationships with your local suppliers, reps and sales people is important for the success of your business. Of course it is! This week the guys talk about a recent discussion happening behind the scenes about sourcing parts for hvac systems, buying local and/or online. We've talked about this topic differently in the past, thanks for tak…

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Solar, HVAC and Boiler talk oh my! 33:15

8M ago33:15

33:15

Andy starts off a little spicy in this one. Sometimes the social media comment section is a terrible place! Thanks to Reed Wiens for writing in to the show, this was a fun conversation! Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit…

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Awkward Voice with Dave Campbell 45:56

7M ago45:56

45:56

Dave is from Ontario Canada. He has been chased by a Moose, been in 3 tornadoes, heard himself on the radio, Dave wonders why people love puzzles, and he can’t swim. Dave is fairly sarcastic and his wit makes him slightly dizzy at times. His wife does find Dave mildly entertaining (in small amounts and from a safe distance). Dave is the host of 8 d…

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Why does Eric hate zone pumps? Mixing valves, water heaters and more. 40:08

7M ago40:08

40:08

Thank you all for messaging! This was a fun conversation! Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_emailBy Eric Aune, Andy Mickelson

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Awkward Brewing with Amanda & Andrew Poliak 47:46

8M ago47:46

47:46

Amanda Poliak is a talented, award-winning brewer and the owner of Awkward Brewing, a brewery known for its unique flavors and bold brews. She first opened Awkward Brewing in Washington State in 2015 before relocating to the Atlanta metro area, where she re-established the brewery in 2021. While the brewery technically reopened in November of that …

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Attention Menards Shoppers: Fight in the lumberyard 33:12

8M ago33:12

33:12

Chad joins the guys to tell the story of a birthday gone bad and it might be all because of an orange bucket…you’ll have to listen to hear the whole story. Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email…

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Awkwardly Critical with Brian Kerr 52:33

8M ago52:33

52:33

Brian Kerr has consulted full-time for 19 years, working alongside clients in technology, finance, healthcare, the social sector, and local and state governments.3 ways he helps clients get to quality + value:① opening space for shared understanding,② practicing continuous improvement,③ landing change & adoption.Brian's goal → to reduce suffering a…

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Mixed Bag: Resi Fire Sprinklers, GPS tracking and time keeping, Gas station bathrooms w/ Chad 26:11

8M ago26:11

26:11

Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_emailBy Eric Aune, Andy Mickelson, Chad Killinger

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Awkwardly Bold with Brian Buck 51:59

8M ago51:59

51:59

Brian Buck is the Chief Abundance Office of Abundance Worldwide, founder and head coach for Mighty Bold Life. He specializes in helping you implement peak-performance habits and systems so you can create exponential results in your life. He is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, and has helped over 500 people and companies across industries. He …

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Awkward Empathy with Lara Scriba 50:11

9M ago50:11

50:11

Lara is a holistic healing expert dedicated to empowering empaths to transform their lives. She artfully blends numerology, Reiki, tarot, and yoga, with modern techniques, guiding sensitive souls to harness their innate strengths. A nomadic sailor and homeschooling mother of two boys, Lara brings her diverse life experiences, including a background…

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Career Milestones? Was 2024 the tipping point for tech and time? 36:12

8M ago36:12

36:12

Andy shares a few things he's observed over the last year that stand out. Eric is a little nervous when looking back on three specific jobs...are we old enough to be replacing equipment we installed new? Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter si…

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Those free “find a contractor” listings 28:21

9M ago28:21

28:21

Back when we started out it was tough to get the phone to ring. Getting listed on manufacturer’s websites was one way we got our business name out there. Are you doing it? Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_email…

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Fan Mail: How Does Andy Get Any Work Done? 39:23

9M ago39:23

39:23

The guys answer some questions sent in by listeners Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_emailBy Eric Aune, Andy Mickelson

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Tool Reviews with Eric & Andy 37:17

9M ago37:17

37:17

This episode works best as a video, you can watch it over on the MH YouTube channel https://bit.ly/4g4zYXp Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https://bit.ly/MH_emailBy Eric Aune, Andy Mickelson

1
When Podcasts Collide 48:00

9M ago48:00

48:00

This week the guys are joined virtually by the hosts of the Appetite For Construction podcast, John Mesenbrink & Tim Ward. It's that time of year again where we take a look back and even forward into the new year. There was some fun bs'ing as well. Hope you enjoy! Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric…

1
MTGA Road Trip! 52:57

10M ago52:57

52:57

It's roadtrip time for Andy as he met up with Eric for a super top secret install in Northern MN. You’ll have to watch [or listen] to learn all about the project. If the podcast just isn’t enough you could search the tag “#duluthbuild” on Instagram for more from the project job site. Okay, J/K....Air-to-Water Heat Pumps are having a time right now,…

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B.S. & Bad Jobs. 33:25

10M ago33:25

33:25

Not all projects are run & organized the same, obviously. This week the guys have a short BS session and talk about a job Eric has coming up and one of Andy's preferred general contractors. Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic ideas over on our social channels! Eric Aune @mechanicalhub Andy Mickelson @mick_plumb Newsletter sign up: https:/…

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Special Guest: Apprentice Adam Parent 40:08

10M ago40:08

40:08

Canadian apprentice Adam Parent joins the guys to talk about his experiences and thoughts bout joining the plumbing trade in Canada. Adam's experience in both residential and commercial work doing both plumbing and heating new construction, remodel and service have helped him hone his skills and find a place where he's challenged but excited to lea…

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Van Talk: Guess what? Wrong Part! 30:32

10M ago30:32

30:32

It's never great when service vehicles break down but it's even worse when local mechanics are out weeks for repairs and parts are hard to track down. This week Andy retells the story of a relative simple fix for a recent breakdown. How hard can it be to replace a starter on a 2020 Ford Transit anyway? Send us a text Send us your feedback or topic …

1
Tech in the Trades: Smarter Small Businesses 44:07

11M ago44:07

44:07

In this episode of Make Trades Great Again, Eric and Andy dive into how artificial intelligence, especially tools like ChatGPT, is reshaping the trades industry. They share personal experiences on using AI for everything from generating heat load calculations and troubleshooting boiler issues to crafting proposals and even coming up with recipe ide…