In this episode of The Punchlist on the Blue Collar Future Podcast, hosts Jaden Robison and Jessie Demler dig into one of the biggest challenges facing the trades today: expectations.

From social media hype that makes careers look like overnight success stories to the real-world truth that expertise takes years of hard work, Jaden and Jessie share their own experiences of learning, growing, and sometimes failing forward.

They highlight why transparency in career paths, initiative on the job, and realistic timelines for growth matter so much for new tradespeople. Whether you’re just starting out or mentoring the next generation, this episode will help you reset expectations, stay motivated, and understand why the long road is worth it.

• Everything in the trades takes longer than expected (and that’s okay).

• Social media creates unrealistic success stories that don’t match reality.

• True expertise requires time, patience, and repetition.

• Initiative is one of the fastest ways to stand out on the job.

• Clear career paths + mentorship prevent burnout and frustration.

• Motivation fuels faster learning — but you can’t rush experience.

(00:00) - Introduction and Weekend Recap (03:43) - Expectations and Instant Gratification (09:17) - The Reality of Becoming an Expert (16:37) - Real-Life Examples of Learning and Growth (21:27) - The Importance of Time and Experience in Trades (28:46) - The Value of Experience in Trades (34:50) - Generational Mindsets and Impatience (41:14) - Realistic Expectations in the Trades (49:29) - Transparency and Career Progression (54:22) - The Journey to Expertise

In this episode of the Blue Collar Future Podcast, hosts Jaden Robison and Jessie Demler sit down with Cody Cessna, founder of CO Eyewear, to talk about his journey from working as a lineman to building a fast-growing safety eyewear brand designed for tradespeople.

Cody shares how he spotted a major gap in the market, hand-built the first pair of safety sunglasses, and grew CO Eyewear through innovation, affordability, and social media. We dig into his entrepreneurial path, the realities of balancing family life with business, and the importance of creating practical, reliable gear for blue collar workers.

If you’re in the trades, an aspiring entrepreneur, or just looking for motivation to chase your idea, this conversation is packed with insights on business growth, work-life balance, and the power of loving what you do.

👉 Don’t miss this episode—especially if you care about safety, innovation, and opportunity in the trades.

Find their safety glasses here

• Innovation starts with solving a problem you’ve lived.

• Affordability and practicality matter most in blue collar safety gear.

• Social media can fuel business growth for small brands.

• Balancing work and family is a constant challenge for entrepreneurs.

• Loving what you do makes the grind worth it.

• Opportunities are everywhere in the trades if you’re willing to build

(00:00) - Introduction to Cody and CO Eyewear (02:44) - Identifying the Need for Safety Eyewear (05:38) - The Journey of Building a Business (08:10) - Innovations in Safety Eyewear (10:56) - The Importance of Affordability and Accessibility (13:37) - Balancing Work and Family Life (16:21) - The Role of Social Media in Business Growth (19:03) - Lessons from Trade Experience (22:02) - Opportunities in Blue Collar Work (32:40) - Work-Life Balance in Trade Jobs (35:55) - Transitioning from Physical Labor to Business (38:14) - Product Development and Customer Needs (48:14) - Understanding Lineman Rodeos (50:33) - Crazy Job Site Stories (52:46) - Finding Joy in Work and Life

In this episode of 10 Minute Trade Hacks, host Jaden Robison shares a simple but powerful 5-minute morning prep routine designed for tradespeople. From hydration and tool organization to mental checklists and food prep, these quick steps set you up for a smoother, more productive day on the jobsite.

Key Takeaways

• A little prep = a much smoother day.

• Drink water first thing to wake up your body.

• Use a mental checklist (or quick journal) to focus on priorities.

• Lay out tools the night before to reduce clutter and save time.

• Prep food and hydration so you’re fueled and not overspending.

• Staying hydrated is key to performance in the trades.

• Five minutes upfront can save you an hour later.

• Regularly adjust your routine to fit your needs.

In this Q&A edition of the Blue Collar Future Podcast, hosts Jaden Robison and Jessie Demler tackle listener questions on everything from side work to the right truck to drive. Whether you’re just starting out in the trades or already building a career, this conversation is packed with insights you can use on the job site and beyond.

We discuss whether learning a trade for side work is worth the investment, what to look for in a reliable work truck, and how to successfully build relationships when striking out on your own. Plus, we dive into the artistry of masonry and share tips for laying bricks in multiple colors without creating unwanted focal points.

• Learning a trade for side work can pay off — but only if you manage expectations.

• Mastery in the trades takes time, consistency, and experience.

• Networking and building trust with builders is crucial for starting your own business.

• Your reputation and the quality of your work will drive referrals.

• Work trucks are tools — warranties, reliability, and setup matter.

• In masonry, avoid focal points by blending colors and patterns carefully.

⏱️ Chapters

(00:00) - Introduction and Podcast Dynamics (02:46) - The Value of Learning Blue Collar Skills (05:26) - Mastery in Trades: Time and Experience (08:20) - Building Relationships in the Construction Industry (11:05) - Networking and Referrals for Success (13:46) - Navigating Employment and Entrepreneurship (16:27) - The Importance of Reputation and Quality Work (25:58) - Building Bridges: The Importance of Leaving on Good Terms (29:57) - Work Trucks: Preferences and Experiences (40:31) - Masonry Techniques: Blending Colors and Patterns

Summary In this episode of 10 Minute Trade Hacks, host Jaden Robison breaks down the 3-Tool Rule — a simple system to keep your everyday carry lean, efficient, and clutter-free. Whether you’re a carpenter, concrete finisher, or working another trade, this quick hack will help you cut wasted time digging through bags and stay focused on the tools that really matter.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on the 3 core tools you use 90% of the day.

• Keep them in a consistent, easy-to-reach spot.

• Organize secondary tools in a bag, bucket, or box for quick access.

• Streamlining your setup improves workflow, reduces clutter, and saves money.

• Consistency = efficiency. The less you think about finding tools, the more you get done.

Chapters (00:00) – The 3-Tool Rule Explained (04:30) – How to Organize Secondary Tools (07:45) – Staying Consistent for Maximum Efficiency

Staying hydrated on the job site isn’t just about comfort — it’s about safety, productivity, and long-term health. In this episode of 10 Minute Trade Hacks, host Jaden Robison shares practical strategies to beat the heat and stay hydrated while working in construction or the trades.

From the benefits of cold water and electrolytes to the importance of sun protection and morning hydration, Jaden breaks down the simple habits that make a big difference. You’ll also learn how dehydration can affect your energy, focus, and safety — and what to do about it.

Whether you’re working through summer heat or just want to improve your daily routine, these hydration hacks will keep you safe, healthy, and productive on the job.

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• Hydration is crucial for job site safety and productivity.

• Cold water is easier to drink and helps you stay hydrated.

• Electrolytes are essential for effective hydration.

• Sun shirts protect against heat, fatigue, and dehydration.

• Morning hydration sets the tone for the day.

• Too much water can slow you down with extra breaks.

• Dehydration leads to fatigue and flu-like symptoms.

• Acclimatizing to heat helps your body adjust.

• Seasonal changes affect hydration needs.

• Consistent hydration = better energy and productivity.

(00:00) - Introduction to Hydration and Heat Management (02:38) - Effective Water Consumption Strategies (04:59) - The Importance of Electrolytes (06:09) - Protecting Yourself from the Sun (07:42) - The Consequences of Dehydration

In this episode of the Blue Collar Future Podcast, hosts Jaden Robison and Jessie Demler break down how to move from seeing your construction job as “just a paycheck” to building a fulfilling, long-term career in the trades.

We dive into the importance of finding passion in your work, creating growth opportunities, financial planning, and building a strong reputation in the construction industry. Plus, why mentorship, intentionality, and networking can transform your career path.

If you’re looking to advance in the trades, build trust with employers and clients, and invest in your future, this episode is packed with tools to help you level up.

🔨 Subscribe for more insights on blue collar careers, mentorship, and growth in the trades!

• Passion turns a job into a career.

• Mentorship is a game-changer for skill development.

• Financial planning = long-term security in trades.

• Reputation and reliability build trust and referrals.

• Be intentional: reverse engineer your career goals.

• Networking + relationships = more opportunities.

(00:00) - Introduction and Current Projects (05:38) - Perceptions of the Trades as a Career (11:13) - Creating Opportunities for Growth (22:35) - Investing in Your Future (28:07) - Building a Career in the Trades (33:38) - The Role of Social Media in Reputation

#BlueCollarFuture #TradesCareer #ConstructionLife #SkilledTrades #CareerGrowth #MentorshipMatters #BlueCollarSuccess #ConstructionCareers #BuildYourFuture

In this episode of the Blue Collar Future Podcast, Jaden Robison discusses the importance of intentional living and having a clear vision for one's life. He emphasizes the need for a personal mission statement to guide decision-making and ensure fulfillment in all areas of life. Jaden shares insights on how to avoid regrets and the significance of making purposeful choices that align with one's values and goals. He encourages listeners to reflect on their lives and consider how they can implement these principles for personal growth and success.

Takeaways

• We all want to make an impact in our lives.
• Being intentional is crucial for achieving goals.
• Having a plan is essential for building a fulfilling life.
• A mission statement helps in making decisions.
• Success should encompass all areas of life, not just career.
• You can avoid regrets by planning your life intentionally.
• Begin with the end in mind to guide your actions.
• Personal mission statements can enhance decision-making.
• It's important to be proactive rather than reactive in life.
• It's never too late to start living intentionally.

Chapters

(00:00) - Introduction to Intentional Living

(02:25) - The Importance of Having a Mission Statement

(05:00) - Defining Success Beyond Career

(07:23) - Making Decisions with Purpose

(09:59) - Creating a Personal Mission Statement

(12:27) - The Impact of Intentionality on Life

(14:53) - Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of the Blue Collar Feature Podcast, hosts Jaden Robison and Jesse Demler answer questions fielded from Instagram! Covering advice for working in the Blue Collar Field, toxic work cultures, artistry in masonry and what is getting the younger generation excited about the trades! If you'd like a question answered, join the Channel on Instagram, DM Jaden or Jessie or keep an eye out for prompts.

Takeaways:

• Social media often presents a highlight reel that can mislead people about success.
• True fulfillment comes from relationships, not just financial success.
• The trades offer a viable career path that should be celebrated, not looked down upon.
• Professionalism in the trades is often lacking compared to other industries.
• Toxic work cultures can deter new talent from entering the trades.
• Engaging youth through community outreach can spark interest in blue-collar careers.
• Artisan skills in masonry and other trades are valuable and should be preserved.
• The future of craftsmanship relies on mentorship and positive work environments.
• Financial literacy is crucial for those in the trades to avoid debt traps.
• Creating a supportive community in the trades can lead to a healthier work culture.

Chapters:

(00:00) - Introduction to Blue Collar Future Podcast

(02:26) - The Pursuit of Meaning Beyond Money

(08:23) - Q: Best advice for someone wanting to get into, or wanting to work in the blue collar field

(10:55) - The Importance of Professionalism in Trades

(13:30) - Creating a Positive Company Culture

(14:35) - Q: How do we get past the culture of initiations or people having to prove themselves for new apprentices?

(26:49) - Q: What makes kids these days excited about the trades? 

(29:28) - The Role of Social Media in Attracting Youth

(32:37) - Career Progression and Opportunities in Trades

(38:53) - Q: Do you think the artisan aspect of Masonry is coming back?

(45:30) - Artistry in Concrete Work

In this episode of the Blue Collar Future podcast, host Jaden Robison delves into the theme of intentionality, particularly in leadership and personal development. He shares insights from various podcasts, emphasizing the importance of not procrastinating and making the most of each day. Drawing from John Maxwell's teachings, Jaden discusses the concept of 'Today Matters' and how overestimating what we can do tomorrow can hinder our progress. He reflects on the significance of being intentional in our daily lives and how it can lead to greater success and fulfillment.

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Go check out the Construction Mentor Podcast wherever podcasts are found and Youtube

Takeaways

• Intentionality is crucial in leadership and personal development.
• Procrastination can lead to chaos in our lives.
• Completing small tasks can increase our capacity for more significant achievements.
• We often underestimate what we can accomplish today.
• Being intentional helps us maximize our time and productivity.
• Reflecting on our daily actions can lead to better decision-making.
• Living with the end in mind can guide our daily choices.
• Intentional living impacts our relationships and family life.
• We should appreciate the present and not take time for granted.
• Sharing insights can help others on their journey of intentionality.