In this episode of Keep Hustling, host Aaron Gordon sits down with Ryan Englin, founder of Core Matters, to dig into the challenges and opportunities of hiring and retaining talent in blue-collar industries. Ryan shares his personal journey from a blue-collar upbringing to entrepreneurship and discusses the image problem faced by the trades, emphasizing the essential and undervalued role of skilled workers. The conversation dives into why retaining talent is harder than recruiting, how modern generations expect more from employers, and the importance of empathy, communication, and fostering connections within teams. Ryan also shares actionable insights for building strong workplace cultures and inspiring the next generation to take pride in blue-collar work. The episode wraps up with Ryan’s favorite motivational quote and encouragement to “keep hustling.”

Get To Know Ryan Englin Best-Selling Author, Creator of the Core Fit Hiring System, Consultant to the Trades

Ryan Englin is a dedicated advocate for small to medium-sized businesses in blue-collar industries, inspired by his childhood observing his father’s relentless dedication as an entrepreneur. With extensive experience in corporate America and as the CEO of Core Matters, Ryan empowers business leaders to create highly productive companies by prioritizing the recruitment and retention of top talent. Through his dynamic speaking engagements, workshops, and webinars, Ryan delivers innovative insights on recruiting, employee development, and transformative recruitment strategies. His engaging approach sparks meaningful change, energizing audiences and equipping them to tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Ryan Englin Website

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3 Episode Key Takeaways 1. Reframe the Trades: Ryan Englin underscores that the skilled trades suffer from a reputation problem, not a talent shortage. By shifting our perception to recognize the immense value and essential nature of trades like plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, individuals and parents can empower the next generation to pursue meaningful, high-demand careers that truly keep our society running.


2. Retain, Don’t Just Recruit: It’s not just about getting people in the door—it’s about keeping them engaged and motivated. Ryan points out that many blue collar industries have a retention issue due to outdated management styles and a lack of empathy for modern workers’ needs. Embracing change, fostering empathy, and building genuine connections within teams are key strategies for companies to reduce turnover and build thriving workplaces.


3. Invest in Human Connection: In an age of digital overload and workplace loneliness, Ryan champions the power of authentic relationships at work. Employers who deliberately foster communication and create environments where employees form friendships—by asking personal questions and encouraging team bonding—see greater engagement, loyalty, and productivity, proving that culture is a company’s secret weapon.

Show Overview: 00:00 Breaking Free from Family Business

03:43 Trade Industry's Retention Crisis

07:10 Overvalued Professions: Attorney vs. Plumber

12:34 Adapting to Modern Workforce Needs

13:43 Supporting Employee Work-Life Balance

17:51 Workplace Kinship Eases Sacrifices

20:44 Workplace Friendships Boost Engagement

24:49 Inspiring Entrepreneurial Journey