What’s it like being one of only 6,000 women in the U.S. with a master plumber’s license? Jessie Cannizzaro didn’t grow up dreaming of plumbing, but her story is proof that life’s twists and turns can lead to incredible success.

Jessie didn’t set out to follow in her family’s footsteps in the plumbing industry—or even to earn a business degree. Like many young adults, she started college without a clear direction, unsure of what path to pursue. After taking a break to reassess, Jessie returned to school, eventually choosing business as a broad foundation for her career. Plumbing wasn’t on her radar until life nudged her in an unexpected direction.

While helping her father with plumbing jobs during his recovery, Jessie discovered a newfound appreciation for the craft. What started as an obligation turned into a passion, as she saw the tangible impact of her work and the gratitude of the clients she served. Jessie decided to take the leap, combining her business knowledge with an apprenticeship under her father’s mentorship—a decision that ultimately led her to launch her own plumbing business.

What sets Jessie apart is her commitment to transforming the trades. Through her innovative apprenticeship program, she’s not only helping the next generation learn their craft but also building a supportive culture that prioritizes integrity, skill development, and teamwork. 

Beyond her work in plumbing, Jessie has also extended her mission of care and community to animals. Her company’s foster program helps rescue dogs find homes, reflecting her belief that businesses can—and should—be forces for good in every sense. Jessie’s vision is to elevate the perception of tradespeople while creating opportunities for others to thrive.

• Jessie’s journey from reluctant helper to licensed master plumber.
• Why she traded a “boring” desk job for the hands-on satisfaction of plumbing.
• How Milestone Plumbing is shaping the future of trades with an innovative apprenticeship program.
• The importance of integrity, teamwork, and doing the right thing—even when no one’s watching.
• A behind-the-scenes look at Jessie’s "foster a pup" initiative.
• Tips for young people entering the trades and advice for parents navigating their kids’ career choices.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, review, and share it with someone who could use a little inspiration in their career journey.

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If you’ve heard complaints about “lazy” Gen Z workers, you’re not alone. But are these stereotypes based on reality, or are they just old-school misconceptions? We sat down with Brett King, CEO of Exploring Potential, to unpack these myths and dig into what Gen Z is actually bringing to the table. Spoiler: It’s not laziness—it’s a need for meaning and connection.

Brett shares how companies can stop blaming generational gaps and start taking responsibility for creating environments where employees thrive. He explains why Gen Z values empathy and patience in leadership and how they’re vetting potential employers based on values and culture. It’s not just about the paycheck—it’s about making an impact and feeling valued.

At the end of the day, all generations need to work together to create a collaborative and productive workplace. Brett highlights how reducing turnover and avoiding combative dynamics starts with understanding each other’s needs and priorities. From soft skills to purpose-driven leadership, fostering mutual respect is key to bridging generational gaps.

We also discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and why companies with strong training programs see significantly lower turnover rates. Brett offers real-world advice for business owners struggling to bridge the gap between seasoned leaders and a new generation of workers. Whether it’s investing in soft skills or connecting the dots between tasks and purpose, this episode is packed with actionable insights.

Looking to attract and retain the next generation of talent? This conversation is a must-listen for leaders who want to grow their businesses and their teams.

• Debunking the myth of lazy Gen Z workers: what they really want from employers.
• How to train leaders to balance empathy, patience, and accountability.
• Emotional intelligence: why it’s the most important skill for today’s leaders.
• The hidden costs of turnover and how to fix them.
• Why collaboration across generations is the key to avoiding high turnover.

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review. Share it with a friend or business owner who’s navigating today’s multigenerational workforce!

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What does it take to create a work culture where people actually want to stay? Today, we're diving into what makes or breaks a “stay culture” in the workplace.

Fall is well under way , and while hunting season might give some employees a reason to step away, it brings up an important question: how do you create a culture that keeps people engaged and committed? This episode digs into the idea of "stay culture"—what makes people want to stick around instead of heading for the door.

We explore how leaders can connect with their teams by listening—really listening. It's not just about nodding and waiting to talk; it’s about showing genuine interest in what’s being said, even if it’s not something you personally care about. Tactical empathy plays a big role here. It's not about carrying everyone’s baggage but understanding their perspective enough to make them feel heard. This strategy alone can turn a revolving door workplace into a loyal and productive team.

We also tackle the tough reality of employee suggestions that might not be feasible to implement. How do you acknowledge someone’s input without creating false expectations? The answer lies in setting clear follow-ups and ensuring the team feels valued—even if the idea doesn’t make it into practice. And speaking of value, leaders need to take responsibility when things go wrong, while giving credit to the team for every success. This is what it means to be a true leader. 

From actionable leadership advice to relatable anecdotes, this episode is packed with insights on creating a workplace that people want to be a part of—not just a place where they collect a paycheck.

• The importance of listening to employees without dismissing their ideas.
• Understanding tactical empathy and how it differs from emotional empathy.
• Why leaders need to own failures and give teams credit for success.
• Strategies to make employees feel heard, even when their ideas aren’t feasible.
• Practical ways to build connections with your team and reduce turnover.

If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review. Share this episode with your colleagues or anyone who might benefit from improving workplace culture!

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When Thomas Wasmoen started Firm Ground Architects, it wasn’t just about designing buildings—it was about creating a strong foundation for collaboration and innovation.

Thomas shares the incredible origin story of his firm, which began with a bold declaration at a bar and grew into a thriving, multi-generational company. With decades of experience, he talks about creating a culture that bridges generations and fosters mentorship in the workplace.

We explore what it takes to adapt to industry trends while balancing innovation with experience. From mentoring young professionals to working closely with contractors, Thomas shares how his team keeps collaboration at the forefront.

We also dig into the evolving demands of industries like senior housing, healthcare, and hospitality. Thomas explains how his firm meets these challenges with creativity, client-focused solutions, and a commitment to building lasting relationships.

Highlights from the Episode:

1. The origin story of Firm Ground Architects—starting with a bold declaration over beers.
2. How mentoring younger professionals strengthens workplace culture and innovation.
3. Bridging generational gaps in the workplace and creating lasting collaboration.
4. Adapting to trends in senior housing and healthcare with client-centered designs.
5. Insights on building strong contractor relationships for better project outcomes.

Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, rate, and review! Share it with someone who values collaboration and innovation in the workplace

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There’s something truly special about how the blue-collar world steps up during times of crisis, and today, we're taking a moment to recognize that.

Over the past few months, we’ve seen incredible stories of resilience and community in the face of natural disasters across the Carolinas, Florida, Texas, and beyond. It’s a reminder that while not everyone in the industry may be doing things for the right reasons, there are countless people who show up, give their time, and work tirelessly without expecting anything in return.

We couldn’t help but highlight the coordinated efforts that go into these large-scale responses—whether it’s staging areas being set up for trades to mobilize quickly or local companies stepping up with supplies and transportation. The heart of these efforts isn’t just in the immediate action but in the willingness to stick around long after the headlines fade. This commitment often turns into life-changing experiences for those who help and those who are helped, showing that the blue-collar industry is built on more than just skills; it’s built on a shared sense of purpose and community.

We’re also reminded of stories like those of our clients and friends who found their passion for the trades during pivotal moments, like witnessing the aftermath of major events and wanting to contribute. It’s this sense of purpose that we hope more leaders in the industry recognize and cultivate, turning moments of crisis into opportunities for growth, learning, and unwavering support.

If you find value in stories like these, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review. Share this episode with others who appreciate the grit and heart of the blue-collar world.

Highlights

• Community Response: We discuss the blue-collar industry's incredible efforts during recent natural disasters.
• Long-Term Dedication: Highlighting the commitment of workers who stay to support communities beyond the immediate crisis.
• Effective Coordination: Insights into the well-organized staging efforts that improve disaster response.
• Impactful Stories: Sharing real examples of towns rallying together for recovery.
• Leadership Reflection: Encouraging leaders to recognize the importance of their teams' contributions.

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Joining the family business isn’t always a given, but Kyle Davies shares how he found his path and the lessons that shaped him along the way.

Kyle Davies, General Manager of W.E. Davies and Sons Remodeling, talks about his unique journey into the family business, a company that's been a cornerstone of Madison, Wisconsin, for nearly 50 years. Kyle didn't jump into the business right away; he explored careers in retail, restaurant management, and distribution, gaining valuable experience in sales and service before coming back to his roots. His diverse background has helped him bridge the gap between operations and sales, fostering smoother internal communication.

Kyle shares how the landscape of the trades has changed, including the renewed interest among younger generations thanks to revived trade programs in schools. His experiences at local high school trade days proved that interest in hands-on work is alive and well. The family business thrives on mentorship, with seasoned carpenters sharing their knowledge and guiding newer team members at a sustainable pace.

Through an open-door policy and a culture of transparency, Kyle emphasizes the importance of communication and learning from each other to keep the company strong. For those considering a career shift to the trades, Kyle offers practical advice: you don’t have to be a master carpenter to be part of the industry—there’s a role for everyone.

Episode Highlights:

• Kyle’s journey from retail and distribution to joining the family business.
• The impact of trade programs in schools on the younger generation’s interest in the trades.
• Unique strategies for finding and training new talent in the remodeling industry.
• The importance of mentorship and transparent communication within the company.
• Advice for those considering a career shift into the trades without prior hands-on experience.

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, rate, review, and share with others who would find these stories and insights valuable.

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We’re thrilled to share that we’ve been awarded the 2024 Small Business Owners Community Podcast of the Year! This recognition is a huge milestone, and we’re beyond grateful for your support along the way. Thank you to everyone who tunes in and engages with us—you’ve truly made this journey worthwhile.

Thanks to you, what began as an idea back in 2019 has grown into a podcast reaching listeners in 71 countries, sharing stories that resonate with the blue-collar world.

In this episode, we tackle a crucial topic for business owners: how to retain employees when times get tough. With markets fluctuating and businesses facing uncertainty, it’s easy to overlook the value of culture and connection in keeping a team intact. We discuss why retention strategies should start with active listening and how small, sincere gestures can make all the difference. Leaders who prioritize genuine engagement and address team feedback head-on often see stronger loyalty and commitment, even in challenging times.

Join us as we explore practical, no-cost ways to reinforce your team’s connection to the company—strategies that can keep morale up and reduce turnover when it matters most.

Episode Highlights

• Strategies to keep employees engaged and loyal during economic slowdowns
• How leaders can actively listen to build trust and create lasting loyalty
• Why employee feedback matters and how to effectively implement ideas
• Small gestures that strengthen team morale and reinforce a positive culture

Thank you again for being part of this journey with us. Please remember to subscribe, rate, review, and share the show to keep these conversations going!

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A positive employee experience is crucial for business success, and it all begins with leadership. Meg Schmitz joins us to share insights on how business owners can drive a thriving work culture by staying in tune with their employees’ needs. Drawing from her expertise in franchising, Meg explains why the focus should be on employee retention and engagement, and how it leads to better customer satisfaction and business outcomes.

We also explore how different generations approach business ownership and why personal ambition and leadership skills, rather than age, determine success. Whether you're just starting out or are an experienced business owner, the key is understanding how to foster a positive work environment that meets the needs of a multi-generational workforce.

Meg also touches on the importance of encouraging trade skills and how AI won’t be replacing hands-on jobs any time soon. For those in business ownership, she emphasizes the need to cultivate new talent through apprenticeships and hands-on training to stay ahead in the modern workforce.

Episode Highlights:

• Leadership’s role in creating a positive employee experience
• How franchising models focus on employee retention and recruitment
• Generational approaches to business ownership
• The growing importance of trade skills in today’s workforce
• Why AI can’t replace hands-on jobs and how to train the next generation of skilled workers

Enjoyed the conversation? Don’t forget to share this episode, follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and leave a review. Your feedback helps us grow!

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In today’s episode, we’re tackling one of the most overused and ineffective approaches to employee recognition—pizza parties. While they’ve become a common way to acknowledge hard work, they often miss the mark and fail to make a lasting impact. Employee recognition should go beyond superficial gestures and focus on creating meaningful connections with the team.

There’s a big difference between recognition and incentives, and that’s something worth digging into. Incentives might push people toward hitting specific targets, but real recognition is about acknowledging the person behind the work. It’s not just about what was achieved, but how someone showed up, and why their contribution matters.

There are better, more personal ways to make employees feel valued. In this episode, we explore how understanding your team on a deeper level can help create genuine recognition moments that resonate. It’s not about handing out generic rewards; it’s about taking the time to truly appreciate what each person brings to the table.

If you’re looking for ways to recognize your team’s hard work in a way that actually makes a difference, you’ll find plenty of practical advice in this conversation. Authentic recognition has the power to change workplace culture, and this episode is all about how to make that happen.

Highlights:

• Why superficial gestures like pizza parties miss the mark in showing true employee appreciation.
• The difference between incentives and recognition—and why confusing the two can hurt morale.
• How working alongside your employees can be one of the most powerful ways to say thank you.
• Real-life examples of recognition strategies that work (and those that don't).
• The critical role leadership plays in fostering a culture of authentic appreciation.
• Why aligning company and employee values is essential for long-term success.

If you found this conversation helpful, don’t forget to share the episode! Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and leave a rating or review to let us know what you think.

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Welding education is experiencing a resurgence, with students more eager than ever to learn the trade.

Matt Scott, a welding instructor from Portland Community College, shares his 30+ years of experience in training the next generation of welders and explains how the pandemic has reshaped both student engagement and the industry itself.

In this episode, Matt talks about the post-pandemic shift in welding education, highlighting how today’s students—especially Gen Z—are driven, hungry, and ready to enter the workforce. 

We discuss the evolution of welding programs, the importance of collaboration among students, and the growing demand for skilled welders across various industries. 

Matt also shares real success stories from his students, such as a young welder who made $15,000 by age 19, and explains how Portland Community College's state-of-the-art welding facility and mobile welding trailer are transforming the future of hands-on education.

Highlights:

• Matt’s journey from high school metal shop to a career in welding education
• How the pandemic has created a new level of enthusiasm in welding students
• The vital role of teamwork and mentorship in the welding trade
• Inspiring success stories from Matt’s students
• The cutting-edge tools and programs at Portland Community College that are shaping the future of education

If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and leave a review to help others discover the show!

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