In this episode, our hosts Mike Nelson and Derek Foster interview Chris Manzela, co-owner of BradManz Landscaping! Chris has been working since he was only 14 years old, but he's progressed a long way since then - from $3.75 an hour bussing tables to owning his own business and a massive football fan cave, Chris' steps forward have not been small! What's his secret? Listen to this episode, and you just might find out!

Welcome to Blue Collar StartUp, the podcast!

Our Mission is Simple: To facilitate the growth and development of Blue Collar businesses. We will showcase REAL Blue Collar businesses in interviews, and use these stories to help educate and empower the next generation of trades workers to become Blue Collar business owners!

00:15 - Introductions

01:32 - Whoa! New Sound Effects!

02:11 - An Introduction to BradManz Landscaping

04:26 - Getting Started… At 14?!

06:16 - Food Service Wages… Thankfully Have Changed!

07:04 - Picking (and Losing) a Partner

08:05 - Chris Can Do It: Getting a Degree

10:39 - Brickman!

11:35 - Managing Over Maintenance

14:21 - The Beginning of BradManz

15:08 - Matching a Spirit of Generosity

16:54 - Where’s the Work Ethic? Lazy Podcasters!

20:54 - Broadcasting from the Bills Sanctuary

21:16 - Building a Business: It Always Starts Small! Go Above and Beyond!

24:51 - Do You Know, and Do You Care?

26:39 - Shoutout to The Town Tinker!

27:48 - Valorous Volunteerism: Shoutout to Ronald McDonald House!

31:09 - Competition is a GOOD Thing! Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help!

36:59 - Take Care of Your Unicorns!

40:44 - A Day in the Life of Chris

43:47 - A Well-Oiled Gearshift

48:13 - Communication is Paramount!

49:31 - Pay Your Bills!

51:58 - Chris’ (Incorrect) Prediction for the Big Game

52:51 - How to Get in Touch: bradmanzlandscaping.com

54:11 - Closing Remarks: Shoutout to MLB and Michaels Group!