In this episode of Blue Collar StartUp, hosts Mike and Derek sit down with three general managers from pavement preservation giant Suit-Kote, John Debiew, Darin Smith, and Brennan Bezon. Tune in as they discuss their blue-collar journeys from laborers to leaders, reveal the rewards of keeping roads safe and taxpayer dollars saved, and offer hard-earned advice for anyone eyeing a fulfilling career in the trades.
To learn more about John, Darin, and Brennan and about Suit-Kote, visit the company's website at suit-kote.com, to explore career opportunities, services, and reach out to their team.
Check out our Blue Collar StartUp Patreon for exclusive bonus content! https://patreon.com/BlueCollarStartUp?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=copyLink
00:00 Intro banter
02:06 John introduces himself and Suit-Kote’s 104-year history
04:18 Darin shares 23-year rise from laborer to GM
05:36 Brennan explains lowboys and logistics background
06:19 Guests discuss education paths (high school, college, trade)
08:51 John on civil engineering degree and seasonal construction
10:49 Day-to-day: on-season vs. off-season operations
13:36 Plans change daily; “figure it out” mentality
14:37 Suit-Kote’s core: pavement preservation & vertical integration
16:26 Regional GM responsibilities and shared specialty crews
18:32 How all three climbed internally through people & culture
22:05 Retention: exit interviews, internal interviews, leadership training
25:19 Hiring entry-level: eagerness, character over competency
28:12 Obstacles: long hours, weather, equipment gremlins
29:59 Reward: seeing taxpayer savings and safer roads
32:10 Cold-in-place recycling: reuse existing road in one pass
36:33 One piece of advice: find what makes you tick, give 100%
39:56 Where to find Suit-Kote: suit-kote.com
40:41 Main episode wrap-up and sponsor thanks
41:37 Final outro
In Episode 103 of Blue Collar Startup, Mike and Derek welcome back Pam Stott and Doug Ford from the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition. Tune in as they tackle shifting stigmas, counselor workshops, job shadowing, and plans to franchise their model nationwide with help from education firm 1080. Also learn about the November 19th mixer at Rivers Casino—networking, updates, and a high-stakes 200-ticket raffle ($5K/$3K/$2K prizes).
You can connect with the Northeast Construction Trades Workforce Coalition at nctwc.org or follow them on LinkedIn and X.
Check out our Blue Collar StartUp Patreon for exclusive bonus content! https://patreon.com/BlueCollarStartUp?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=copyLink
00:00 Halloween intros & pumpkin talk
00:34 Sponsor shoutouts & BOCES donations
02:21 Pam & Doug return; Curtis Lumber backstory
04:19 Coalition origins & nonprofit milestone
06:17 Elementary toolbox builds (2nd grade+)
11:20 Middle-school dodecahedron & STEM ties
13:41 High-school site visits & Meet the Builder
15:29 Shop class memories & stigma shift
17:14 Alex Dominguez success story
22:49 Job shadowing & internship matchmaking
26:28 Girls’ summer camp (week 1 basic, week 2 advanced)
30:15 Matt Litvak praise & builder volunteers
35:19 Counselor workshops & speed-trading
42:47 Scaling nationally via LBM dealers & 1080
46:14 November 19 mixer at Rivers Casino
47:12 $100 raffle (200 tickets, $20K pot)
51:50 Website & socials; closing thanks
In Episode 102 of Blue Collar Startup, hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster welcome back operational excellence expert Bill Tansey. Bill breaks down key pillars like daily operations, problem-solving, and the eight wastes, offering practical tools to eliminate inefficiency and ensure consistent execution in trades like construction and manufacturing.
You can connect with Bill Tansey at theopexshop.com, bill@theopexshop.com, or on LinkedIn at William (Bill) Tansey Jr.
Check out our Blue Collar StartUp Patreon for exclusive bonus content! https://patreon.com/BlueCollarStartUp?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=copyLink
00:00:15 Welcome to Blue Collar Startup
00:00:29 Hosts introduce themselves
00:01:15 Hunting season talk
00:02:08 Sponsor shoutouts
00:02:48 Patreon announcement
00:03:07 Introducing guest Bill Tansey
00:04:02 What The Op Shop does
00:05:41 Hands-on vs. traditional consulting
00:08:14 Bill's career background
00:10:48 Companies worked for (Boston Scientific, Danaher, GE)
00:14:28 Five pillars of operational excellence
00:18:30 Biggest challenges in midsize businesses
00:21:22 Overcoming challenges with value stream mapping
00:23:37 The eight wastes explained
00:27:46 Applicability across industries
00:30:20 Signs to reach out for help
00:33:09 How to contact Bill
00:34:22 Episode wrap-up and sponsors
00:35:03 Closing remarks
In this episode of Blue Collar Startup, Derek Foster interviews Eric Wick, founder of Safety Team Technologies, who shares his journey from insurance brokering to building a digital OSHA compliance platform that streamlines safety training and reduces risks for blue-collar businesses. Eric discusses compliance challenges, insurance cost impacts, and a $5 million claim highlighting the need for proactive safety measures.
You can connect with Eric and Safety Team Technologies at oursafetyteam.com to explore their platform or schedule a demo.
Support Blue Collar Startup and access exclusive content on our Patreon! https://patreon.com/BlueCollarStartUp?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=copyLink
00:00 Introduction and opening
00:37 Co-host absence and guest introduction
01:09 Eric introduces his background and Safety Team Technologies
03:17 Transition to insurance brokering and OSHA expertise
05:07 Founding Safety Team Technologies and software development
07:27 Challenges of implementing safety programs
08:10 Digital solutions for safety training and compliance
09:25 Mobile app features and gamified safety quizzes
10:15 Impact on reducing insurance claims and costs
11:32 Customizing safety content for specific industries
13:34 Challenges in building the Safety Team platform
15:30 Growth through client referrals and national reach
16:51 Future plans for organic business growth
18:33 Explaining workers’ compensation experience modification
20:49 Consequences of claims on insurance premiums
22:56 Onboarding process for new clients
26:17 Craziest insurance claim: a $5 million roofing incident
30:51 Advice for new business owners on safety compliance
32:33 Using technology like ChatGPT for safety programs
40:14 How to connect with Safety Team Technologies
41:49 Closing remarks and call to action
In Episode 100 of Blue Collar Startup, Mike and Derek sit down with Sonny Bonacio of Bonacio Construction for a candid look at his 35-year journey from framing homes to building one of the region’s most influential development companies. From humble beginnings to transforming the landscape of Saratoga, Sonny shares lessons on growth, grit, and staying persistent when the stakes are high.
You can connect with Sonny and Bonacio Construction at bonacio.com or by following the company on social media.
Check out our Blue Collar StartUp Patreon for exclusive bonus content! https://patreon.com/BlueCollarStartUp?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=copyLink
00:00 Introduction
00:50 Winter prep and farm life
02:05 The broken plow story
03:35 Sponsor shoutouts & episode milestone
04:15 Introducing Sonny
05:30 Bonacio Construction: the early days
07:20 Word-of-mouth growth and “never say no”
09:35 Expanding to larger-scale commercial work
11:05 Surviving downturns & banking relationships
12:40 Pressure, risk, and staying calm under fire
14:12 “Leading the market instead of chasing it”
16:03 From subcontractor to GC to developer
17:55 How they landed major clients
19:14 Saratoga’s evolution over decades
21:30 Front-and-center projects & public pressure
24:41 Building true downtown communities
27:45 Landmark Price Chopper transformation
30:31 Legacy building and next generation leadership
33:58 Passion vs. planning: what really matters
In this new episode of Blue Collar StartUp, join hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster as they interview guest Mack Story, a former Marine, manufacturing veteran, author, and leadership expert. Tune in as they explore Mack's journey from factory worker to leadership consultant, emphasizing character development over competency, lean principles, personal growth, and building high-impact teams in blue-collar industries.
You can find Mack at bluecollarleadership.com, via his podcast "Blue Collar Leadership" or by phone at (334)728-4143.
Check out our new Blue Collar StartUp Patreon for exclusive bonus content! https://patreon.com/BlueCollarStartUp?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=copyLink
00:15 Hosts welcome listeners and introduce themselves.
01:29 Introduction of guest Mack Story.
02:05 Mack shares his blue-collar background in manufacturing.
06:15 Mack's military service and passion for personal reset.
09:09 Mack promotes free book previews at bluecollarleadership.com/download.
11:05 Advice for young listeners on career paths and passion.
17:47 Validation of youth's reading ability despite assumptions.
19:38 Unpacking character vs. competency in hiring and firing.
25:06 Advice on developing team character as a leader.
29:54 Promotion of book "Blue Collar Leadership: Leading from the Front Lines".
40:00 Reflection on firing always due to character.
50:07 Where to find Mack and his resources.
53:02 Accessibility and handling calls.
54:46 Upcoming event announcement.
56:31 Episode wrap-up and thanks to sponsors.
58:15 Final hustle encouragement.
01:12:15 Outro greetings.
In this episode of Blue Collar StartUp, hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster sit down with Joe Cerrone, owner of Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning, to explore what it really takes to scale a second-generation trades business. Tune in as they share lessons in leadership, hiring, delegation, software systems, and how to grow a company that can thrive without your constant presence.
Learn more about Cerrone Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning and their work across the Capital Region on their website https://cerroneplumbinghvac.com/.
Check out our new Blue Collar StartUp Patreon for exclusive bonus content! www.patreon.com/c/BlueCollarStartUp
0:00 Host Introduction: Mike Nelson and Derek Foster
0:29 What’s New with Daigle Cleaning Systems
1:25 Business Growth and Constant Change
2:13 Remembering a Mentor and Working Until the End
3:00 Sponsor Acknowledgments
3:39 Guest Introduction: Joe Cerrone
4:15 From CrossFit to Career Growth
5:00 Taking Over a 40-Year Family Business
5:24 Early Days: One Van, Three People
6:01 From Installer to Owner: Learning Every Role
7:01 Building the Second Van and the Fear of Scaling
8:22 The Cost of Growth and 24-Hour Service
9:58 Hiring and Delegation Challenges
11:02 Learning When to Add Office Staff
12:18 Moving from Storage Units to Office Ownership
13:17 Balancing Liabilities vs. Revenue Growth
15:08 Learning to Delegate and Manage a Team
17:05 Training from Scratch and Building Loyalty
20:15 Investing in the Right Software Systems
23:33 Transitioning to New Management Tools
25:40 Staying Organized and Prioritizing Tasks
28:34 Working On the Business, Not In It
30:36 Recruiting and Growing the Next Generation
33:36 Keys to Scaling: Patience and Organization
36:07 Looking Ahead: Expansion into Saratoga Region
38:09 Patreon Launch Announcement
39:23 Episode Wrap-Up and Sponsor Thanks
40:05 Closing Remarks
In this episode of Blue Collar StartUp, hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster catch up with returning guest Brad Lewis, executive director of the Troy Community Land Bank. Tune in as Brad shares his seasonal work strategies, real estate investments, cash flow insights, and more!
Learn how Brad bought a house for $100 here: https://spectrumlocalnews.com/nys/capital-region/housing/2021/04/20/troy-foreclosed-properties-open-house
Learn more about Brad and the Troy Community Land Bank on their website troycommunitylandbank.org or follow their Facebook page.
0:00 Host Introduction: Mike Nelson and Derek Foster
0:49 Chicken Coop Struggles in the Rain
2:37 Sponsor Acknowledgments
3:25 Guest Introduction: Brad Lewis
4:15 Boston Marathon and Running Passion
5:54 Balancing Family and Work
7:14 From Trades to Real Estate
8:12 COVID’s Impact and Business Pivot
10:10 Troy Community Land Bank Executive Director Role
11:25 Scaling Down Landscaping Operations
13:13 Entrepreneurial Journey Reflections
14:58 Troy Community Land Bank’s Mission
16:55 Property Acquisition and Rehab Process
18:34 Investing in Local Contractors
20:53 Building Sales and Community Impact
22:20 Land Bank Financial Model
27:48 Seasonal Work Strategies
29:32 Opportunities in Property Auctions
33:39 Nonprofit Cash Flow Challenges
36:22 Cash Flow Management Tips
40:56 Where to Learn More About the Troy Community Land Bank
42:24 Episode Wrap-Up and Thanks
In this episode of Blue Collar Startup, hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster talk with Cameron Carson, founder of Franbassador. Cameron shares how he built a window cleaning company from just $50 into a 13-unit franchise system, eventually selling it for a major multiple. They discuss the power of door knocking, the challenges of scaling, why franchising is exploding in home services, and how Franbassador helps businesses expand and thrive.
Learn more about Cameron and Franbassador at franbassador.io.
0:42 Host Introduction: Mike Nelson and Derek Foster
2:35 Guest Introduction: Cameron Carson
3:27 Starting a Window Cleaning Company with $50
5:15 Door Knocking and Early Growth Strategies
7:34 The “Five-Around” Sales Method
11:44 Why Franchising Beat Multiple Locations
13:52 Scaling Challenges and Competitor Insights
17:11 Selling a Franchise System and Multiples
20:29 Helping Businesses Franchise with Franbassador
23:21 Franchising as a Legacy Plan for Owners
28:36 Industry Trends and the “Silver Tsunami”
31:04 Private Equity in Home Services
33:41 Buying Power and Expansion Through Franchising
37:05 How Franbassador Supports Franchisors
40:19 Benefits of Buying a Franchise vs. Starting Alone
44:28 Financing Options for Franchise Buyers
48:30 Franchise Growth Stories (Crumbl, Rolling Suds, etc.)
50:23 The Cost and Process of Franchising
55:16 Operations Manuals and Franchise Support
59:15 Licensing vs. Franchising – Legal Pitfalls
1:01:32 Where to Learn More About Franbassador
In this mini episode of the Blue Collar Startup podcast, host Mike Nelson shares a short but powerful message for business owners who may be questioning whether to keep going. Drawing from a recent conversation with a fellow entrepreneur, Mike talks about the struggles many face after five years in business, why perseverance matters, and how you might be closer to success than you think.
Listen to Blue Collar Startup now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Rumble and YouTube.
00:00 Welcome & quick update from Mike
00:30 A friend’s call about closing his business
01:15 The struggle of making it past year five
02:10 Why the hardest part is already behind you
02:50 Remembering bad days and bouncing back
03:15 The “Three Feet from Diamonds” story
04:00 Encouragement to persevere and not give up
04:30 Closing thoughts & sponsor thank you
In this episode of Blue Collar Startup, host Mike Nelson talks with DT Tobiason, founder of West Coast Renewables, a Washington-based company transforming grease trap pumping, cooking oil recycling, and commercial kitchen plumbing. DT shares how he grew from a shop vac in a pickup to a 24-employee operation serving the Pacific Northwest. They cover scaling challenges, disposal costs, employee recruitment, and how turning kitchen waste into biodiesel feedstock keeps both restaurants and the environment running clean.
Learn more about West Coast Renewables at wcrenewables.com.
0:42 Host introduction
1:41 Guest intro: DT Tobiason, West Coast Renewables
2:00 From shop vac to first pump truck
3:18 Turning grease waste into biodiesel feedstock
4:58 Building revenue streams to offset costs
6:00 Early days and Seattle’s local-first culture
8:38 Overcoming growth and hiring challenges
10:15 Disposal costs and rebranding hurdles
11:32 Building a strong, competitive team culture
13:26 Recruiting talent and holding accountability
16:32 Sales and marketing strategies over the years
18:32 Expansion into Oregon and Idaho
21:13 Why restaurants need grease trap services
24:17 Educating restaurant owners and managers
25:08 Technology and equipment upgrades
31:10 Adding drain cleaning and plumbing services
33:01 Service agreements vs. long-term contracts
43:16 The role of a CFO in scaling operations
47:47 DT’s advice for blue collar startups
In this episode of Blue Collar Startup, host Mike Nelson sits down with Jason and Stacy Spector to explore how growth mindset, resilience, and mindset coaching can transform students, athletes, and blue-collar workers alike. Tune in as they share personal stories from wrestling and education, practical strategies for leadership in the trades, and how mindset shifts can help businesses overcome hiring and training challenges.
Learn more about Jason and Stacy’s work with Catamount Consulting at catamountconsultingllc.com.
0:15 Host Introduction: Mike Nelson opens the show, Derek absent
0:29 Sponsor Shoutouts and Trade School Support
1:35 Guest Introduction: Jason & Stacy Spector join the podcast
2:23 Origins of Sweethearts & Heroes and Anti-Bullying Movement
3:38 Jason’s Personal Bullying Story and Wrestling Transformation
7:56 Teaching, Coaching, and Creating Positive School Culture
10:36 Transition into Mindset Coaching & Certification Background
12:27 Negative Self-Talk, Self-Doubt, and Student Athletes
15:00 Breathwork, Performance, and Mental Health Awareness
18:22 Wrestling, Growth Mindset, and Building Resilience
22:00 Competing at the College Level and Lessons Learned
25:00 Applying the “3 E’s” Process to Sports and Business
28:07 Growth Mindset in the Trades: Training New Hires
31:06 The Devin Story: Belonging, Esteem, and Wrestling Breakthrough
35:00 Maslow’s Hierarchy, Workforce Belonging & Leadership
38:10 Importance of Clear, Granular Communication for Teams
41:01 Reframing: Winning, Learning, and Fixed vs. Growth Mindset
45:00 Process-Based Focus and Avoiding Outcome-Driven Identity
53:57 Parenting, Youth Sports Culture, and Growth Mindset Lessons
58:45 Leadership, Trust, and Psychological Safety in Business
1:03:39 Three Levels of Growth Mindset: Reframing, Process, and Neuroplasticity
1:05:00 Using “Good” as a Self-Talk Reframe in Business and Life
In this episode of Blue Collar Startup, hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Chris Buttenham, co-founder and CEO of Reins. Tune in as they discuss how his company helps blue-collar contractors offer equity incentives, his journey from working in his father’s contracting business to addressing the "silver tsunami" of aging business owners needing succession plans, and more!
Learn more about Reins at myreins.com.
0:15 Host Introduction: Mike Nelson and Derek Foster
1:29 Guest Introduction: Chris Buttenham, Co-founder and CEO of Reins
2:23 Overview of Reins: Helping Contractors Offer Equity Incentives
2:53 Alternative Equity Incentives vs. Traditional Employee Ownership
3:49 Benefits of Aligning Employee and Business Goals
4:10 Shoutout to Sponsors Supporting Trade School Programs
5:42 Chris’s Background: Working for His Father’s Contracting Business
6:18 First Startup: AI Tool for Employee Queries (2015–2021)
6:52 Inspiration for Reins: Addressing Succession Challenges
7:59 The "Silver Tsunami" and Small Business Succession Plans
9:46 Why Reins? Helping Owners Pass the Reins
11:10 Importance of Small Businesses to the U.S. Economy
11:53 Common Use Cases: The "Late Promise" and Long-Term Incentives
13:32 Recruiting Key Employees with Equity Incentives
15:12 Tax Implications of Traditional vs. Alternative Equity
18:28 Simplifying Equity Incentives with Reins’ Framework
20:00 Reins’ Technology: Easy-to-Use Software for Owners and Employees
22:17 Ideal Business Size for Reins: 10–15+ Employees
23:06 Working with Businesses That Have Existing Profit-Sharing Plans
28:07 Example of Incentives: Profit-Sharing Pool and Personal Milestones
37:08 How to Connect with Reins and Access Free Resources
In this episode of Blue Collar Startup, hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Joe Dana, Amy Posner, and Chris McNally from Hudson Valley Community College. They discuss the college’s trade-focused programs, the importance of lifelong learning, partnerships with industry leaders like Global Foundries, opportunities for students in high-demand fields, and more!
Learn more about Hudson Valley Community College at hvcc.edu.
0:42 Host Introduction: Mike Nelson and Derek Foster
1:52 Guest Introduction Joe Dana, Amy Posner, and Chris McNally
2:31 Discussion of Robotic Arms and RPI Partnership
3:59 Student Support Resources and SUNY Reconnect Program
5:05 Campus Aesthetics and History
6:57 Founding as Hudson Valley Technical College for Veterans
8:19 Questar STEM High School and P-TECH Programs
9:55 Educational Opportunity Center and Non-Accredited Classes
11:33 Robotics in Manufacturing and Mechatronics Programs
14:16 Global Foundries Partnership and Technician Training
17:06 Enrollment Trends and High Demand for Trade Programs
19:57 FAA-Approved Aircraft Maintenance Program
22:39 Welding, Non-Destructive Testing, and High-Demand Careers
24:44 Job Placement Success in Trade Programs
27:22 Scholarship Opportunities and Industry Support
31:14 Challenges of Modern Automotive Repair
35:52 Future Trends and Lifelong Learning in Trades
37:20 Second Careers and Overcoming Instant Gratification Mindset
46:47 Enrollment Process for New Students
50:07 Campus Life and Student Support Services
50:58 Episode Conclusion
In this solo episode of Blue Collar Startup, host Mike Nelson of Five Towers Media shares a quick, practical process for turning a simple 5-minute video into a polished blog post using AI tools like Otter.ai, ChatGPT, and Opus Clips. He explains how to save time, create multiple pieces of content from one recording, and boost your SEO without breaking the bank.
0:00 Intro and welcome to Blue Collar Startup
0:15 Common challenge: Needing a blog but lacking time or writing skills
0:45 Step 1 – Record a quick video on your phone
1:43 Step 2 – Transcribe the video with Otter.ai
2:03 Step 3 – Export transcription and upload to ChatGPT or Grok
2:22 Prompting AI to create a 600+ word blog for SEO
3:22 Editing and refining your AI-generated blog
4:14 SEO benefits of consistent written and video content
4:52 Creating short video clips with Opus Clips
5:14 Affordable, repeatable content creation for under $100/month
5:45 Why AI can be a helpful tool in your marketing toolkit
6:30 Call to action: Subscribe, review, and help reach #1 blue collar podcast spot
6:43 Sponsor shoutouts and thank-yous
7:19 How to connect with the show and submit topic ideas
Dive into an engaging conversation with Warren County Sheriff Jim Lafarr on The Blue Collar Startup Podcast! Discover why policing is a true blue-collar trade, requiring grit, stamina, and smarts, and hear gripping insights into the daily challenges of keeping Warren County safe. Learn about the physical and mental demands of the job and the surprising parallels between running a sheriff’s office and a small business. Plus, get practical advice for young adults eyeing a career in law enforcement—no college degree needed, just hard work and heart. Tune in for an unfiltered look at the brotherhood, sisterhood, and adrenaline-fueled life behind the badge!
To learn more about opportunities with the Warren County Sheriff's Office or to connect with Sheriff Jim LaFarr, contact the office at 518-743-2501 and ask to speak with him directly.
1:45 Sheriff Jim LaFarr introduced.
2:00 LaFarr shares law enforcement background.
3:00 Sheriff’s office business challenges discussed.
4:04 Early career aspirations shared.
4:35 Civil service exam process explained.
5:39 Sheriff’s multifaceted roles described.
6:42 Law enforcement as blue-collar trade.
8:17 Advice for aspiring officers given.
10:13 Recruitment challenges discussed.
11:56 Law enforcement benefits highlighted.
13:53 Physical agility test details shared.
15:50 Daily police work excitement described.
20:00 Discreet crime management for safety.
22:29 Sheriff’s office rank structure explained.
24:49 Competitive salaries, benefits detailed.
27:43 Education reimbursement benefits discussed.
28:06 Specialization opportunities in sheriff’s office.
29:36 Marine patrol challenges highlighted.
33:00 Downsides of law enforcement discussed.
35:00 Physical fitness in policing addressed.
37:20 Communication, de-escalation skills emphasized.
40:23 Road rage incidents discussed.
42:56 Sheriff’s personal restraint example shared.
43:20 Officer decompression strategies discussed.
44:47 Jiu-jitsu training for officers mentioned.
47:01 Sheriff’s son’s career inspiration shared.
50:00 Episode wrap-up, sponsor thanks.
In this episode of Blue Collar Startup, host Mike Nelson of Five Towers Media sits down with Mike Zayachek of Zayachek Mechanical. Tune in as they discuss starting a business from a pickup truck and a trailer, growing to 147 employees, navigating cash flow challenges, and building a loyal team through training and mentorship in the power generation and industrial maintenance industry.
Learn more about Zayachek Mechanical at www.zayachek.com.
0:15 Introduction
0:32 Guest Introduction
1:04 Zayachek as a Case Study
1:53 Starting in a Barn
4:25 Left Job to Start in 2004
5:34 Customer Trust for Stability
6:08 Lean Startup: Truck, Trailer, Five Employees
8:20 Initial Services: Mills, Plants, Millwright
9:56 Current Work: Rigging, Welding, Maintenance
11:58 Growth: 5 to 147 Employees
12:49 Early Cash Flow Challenges
13:32 Mentorship for Business Skills
15:00 Recession-Proof Growth
19:20 Talent Retention: Training, Benefits
21:09 Welder Compensation
22:38 24/7 Schedules for Deadlines
25:00 Certifications and Training
28:52 Consulting for Coaching and Safety
31:55 Employee Training Investment
46:49 Advice for New Owners: Stay Lean
In this solo "Marketing Minute" episode of Blue Collar Startup, host Mike Nelson of Five Towers Media advises blue collar business owners to avoid starting a Facebook business page too soon and instead leverage personal profiles for better engagement and lead generation. He shares practical tips on transitioning to a business page later and maintaining an active social media presence to build credibility.
0:00 Intro and welcome to the Marketing Minute
0:15 Common mistake: Starting a Facebook business page too soon
0:45 Why business pages get less organic reach
2:00 The algorithm difference: personal vs. business profiles
2:45 Using your personal profile to promote your business
4:15 When to start a business page
5:00 Hiring social media help
5:45 Consistent posting for credibility
6:30 How customers research your business
8:12 Sponsor shoutouts and closing
In this Blueprint episode of Blue Collar StartUp, hosts Derek Foster and Mike Nelson dive into grassroots marketing. Listen in as they explore cost-effective, high-impact ways for small business owners to spread the word about their services—from vehicle wraps and yard signs to leveraging your personal network and overcoming the fear of rejection.
0:14 Podcast Introduction
0:30 What Is Grassroots Marketing?
2:23 Community-Based Tactics: Yard Signs, Wraps, Referrals
3:08 Brand Recognition and Consistency
5:07 Sales Before Marketing
9:00 Fear of Rejection and Mental Barriers
11:38 Leveraging Your Network to Build Business
14:42 Learning from Rejection
17:40 Creative, Low-Cost Ideas That Work
19:13 Final Advice: Hustle and Ask
20:05 Outro and Where to Connect
In this episode of Blue Collar Startup, hosts Mike Nelson of Five Towers Media and Derek Foster of Daigle Cleaning Systems sit down with Ryan Galusha of Galusha & Sons. Listen in as they discuss carrying a third-generation business into the future, mentorship, workforce development, and keeping a legacy alive in the ever-changing world of construction.
Learn more about Galusha & Sons at galushaandsons.com.
0:15 Intro and welcome
0:49 Meet Ryan Galusha of Galusha & Sons
1:20 What Galusha & Sons does today
2:09 How the family business began
3:44 Being third-generation: opportunity and pressure
6:56 Why Ryan had to earn his spot from the outside
8:44 Lessons from working at DA Collins
11:08 Earning respect in a family business
13:23 Ryan’s current role as General Manager
15:54 Balancing field and office work
17:03 Supporting team leadership without micromanaging
20:00 Keeping up with tech and regulation changes
21:48 Safety, training, and working with Catamount Consulting
23:49 Leadership growth and life skills through outside training
27:38 Finding and developing new talent
30:00 Why fewer young people choose the trades
33:44 Labor shortages and unexpected talent sources
36:17 Attitude over experience: the key to success
37:03 Ryan’s biggest challenge leading the next generation
39:01 Building trust and alignment with the team
41:26 The future of Galusha & Sons
43:07 How they expanded into logging
46:03 Why the trades still offer unmatched opportunity
47:13 Where to find Galusha & Sons
48:30 Sponsor shoutouts and closing