Join Jaden Robison on the Blue Collar Future podcast for an engaging conversation with Abe White, The Mulleted Plumber, as they explore the world of trades. Discover Abe's journey from trade school to entrepreneurship, and hear his insights on working in a union versus non-union versus running his own business. The discussion delves into technological advancements on job sites, the challenges of maintaining personal responsibility amidst modern conveniences, and the value of overcoming struggles. This episode offers valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of blue-collar careers and personal growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Abe White shares his journey from trade school to owning a successful plumbing business, highlighting the significance of vocational education.

• The discussion covers the tangible benefits and hurdles of union work, offering listeners an inside perspective on union dynamics.

• Abe provides a candid view on leveraging personal struggles into success, advocating for resilience and self-reliance in personal and professional growth.

• He emphasizes the evolving role of technology in construction, particularly how tools like Trimble systems are changing the landscape.

• Personal reflections detail how lifestyle choices influence professional paths, punctuated by Abe’s humorous take on being known as "the mulleted plumber."

Notable Quotes:

• "America died when the first appliance was born, and life became easy."

• "Your struggle became your learning opportunity."

• "I'd rather see you fall flat on your face rather than help you immediately because I knew you'd become stronger from the pain."

• "You have the ability to overcome and destroy that mental state that you're in. It's all mental"

Chapters:

(00:01) - Abe White's Journey as a Plumber and Business Owner

(06:52) - The Art and Economics of Carpentry and Plumbing

(11:37) - Challenges and Miscommunications in Construction Tolerances

(19:47) - The Impact of Technology on Construction and Labor Dynamics

(31:03) - The Implications of AI and Robots on Human Employment

(35:02) - Union Life: Benefits, Challenges, and Personal Experiences

(42:24) - Balancing Work Commitments and Family Time

(44:02) - The Pros and Cons of Unions Versus Self-Employment

(50:47) - Embracing Struggle and Self-Reliance for Personal Growth

(1:01:52) - Convenience Versus Strength: The Impact of Modern Appliances

(1:07:31) - Embracing Struggles and Gratitude in Everyday Life