The Construction Life

In this episode, we welcome Brittany Farrow, owner of BMFarrow Construction and founder of Girls Can Frame, to talk about the challenges and opportunities for women and young people in the construction and framing industry. Brittany shares her experiences getting into the trades through a high school co-op program and the work she has done to advocate for the trades in schools.

She also discusses her decision to become a teacher for green tradespeople and the challenges she sees with her generation, including overspending and a lack of work ethic. We also hear Brittany's thoughts on construction quality differences in different areas, the differences between prefab and stick framing, and issues with inspectors. We also discuss tool comparisons and the importance of investing in good quality tools.

For more information on Girls Can Frame, follow them on Instagram and TikTok: @Girls_Can_Frame.

Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast:

• Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

For more from The Amabel Letters, follow them on:

• TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

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• Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we welcome Greg and Justin Janizak, owners of Generation Construction and Fine Homes Ltd., to discuss some of the issues facing the construction industry. We touch on the challenges of harassment and lack of incentives in unions, as well as the negative impact of Bill C23 on the industry. We also discuss the pros and cons of social media for construction companies and the importance of saying no when clients ask for samples.

Greg and Justin also share their thoughts on the value of not giving clients a copy of the breakdown and how to handle difficult clients. We also hear Manny's idea for a green tax credit to encourage sustainable construction practices.

For more information on Generation Construction and Fine Homes Ltd., follow them on social media:

• Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube: @GenerationConLtd

• Email: [email protected] or [email protected]

Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast:

• Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

For more from The Amabel Letters, follow them on:

• TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

• Instagram: @_the_amabel_letters

• Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we welcome Carlo di Renzo, owner of Effect Electric Ltd., to discuss trade school issues and generators. Carlo shares his thoughts on union politics, the lack of basic knowledge among apprentices, and the challenges of getting an apprenticeship.

We also hear about the differences between Kohler and Generac generators, the impact of electric vehicles on the power grid, and the power consumption in a typical home. Carlo also talks about the function of arc vaults and surge protectors, as well as issues with Hydro and the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). We also discuss the importance of proper lighting in a space.

For more information on Effect Electric Ltd., check out their website at EffectElectric.com and follow them on Instagram: @EffectElectricLtd. You can also reach Carlo by email at [email protected].

Trying to find a thermally modified exterior material with a lasting warranty and a fire rating? Look no further than Moso Bamboo X-treme. This thermally modified bamboo exterior material is warranted for 25 years against rot and decay, and it is Class A fire rated in both Canada and the United States. Make Moso Bamboo X-treme decking and siding your choice for your next exterior project. Visit www.moso-bamboo.com today.

Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast:

• Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

For more from The Amabel Letters, follow them on:

• TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

• Instagram: @_the_amabel_letters

• Email: [email protected]

On this episode of The Construction Life Podcast, we talk to Anna Rossitter of Answers with Anna about the corruption in construction. Anna shares her personal experience in commercial construction, including stories of companies cutting corners, lack of safety, faulty drawings, failing product installations, apprentice abuses, and media cover-ups. Listen in as Anna encourages tradespeople to speak up about corrupt practices in the industry. To learn more about Anna and her work, visit her website, AnswersWithAnna.com, and follow her on TikTok and Instagram @AnswerswithAnna.

You can also reach out to her directly by email at [email protected]. Don't miss out on this eye-opening conversation about the realities of corruption in construction. Tune in now!

Trying to find an affordable estimating software for your contracting business? It can be difficult to produce accurate estimates using Excel and unaffordable to switch to legacy estimating software platforms. PataBid Quantify estimating software offers electrical and mechanical contractors the answer. Built for electricians, plumbers, building automation groups and fire protection companies in the residential, commercial and industrial markets. Make your jobs predictable and profitable with PataBid Quantify.

Go to www.patabid.com to book a software demo or sign up for a 2 week free trial today.

Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast:

• Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

For more from The Amabel Letters, follow them on:

• TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

• Instagram: @_the_amabel_letters

• Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we are joined by Alex MacDonald, owner of Bakwoods Fireplace and Heating, to talk about all things fireplaces. Alex shares his knowledge on different types and brands of fireplaces, as well as proper venting and regulations. He also discusses the importance of choosing the right wood to burn in wood-burning fireplaces and how to care for chimneys.

We also debate the latest fireplace trends, including linear fireplaces, brass fireplaces, and blue flames, and discuss the pros and cons of fire pits. Alex shares his thoughts on the various price ranges for fireplaces and fire pits, as well as some of his frustrations with framers in the industry.

For more information on Bakwoods Fireplace and Heating, check out their website at BakwoodsFireplace.ca and follow them on Instagram: @BakwoodsFireplace. You can also reach them by email at [email protected].

Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast:

• Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

For more from The Amabel Letters, follow them on:

• TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

• Instagram: @_the_amabel_letters

• Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we welcome Patrick McCormack, owner of Demo for Your Reno Inc., to talk about the ins and outs of demolition and creating an enjoyable jobsite. Patrick shares his strategies for avoiding musculoskeletal injuries, properly packing a bin, and cleaning as you demo. He also discusses the value of bringing massage therapists to the jobsite and the importance of providing immigrants with Canadian experience.

Patrick also touches on the challenges of recycling and repurposing materials in the construction industry, as well as the lack of recycling options for new buildings.

For more information on Demo for Your Reno Inc., check out their website at DemoforyourReno.com and follow them on social media:

• Instagram and Facebook: @DemoforyourReno

• Email: [email protected]

Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast:

• Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

For more from The Amabel Letters, follow them on:

• TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

• Instagram: @_the_amabel_letters

• Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we are joined by Greg and Christos of 2 Guys in Greece to talk about their experience rebuilding a 200-year-old home in Greece. They share the challenges they faced, including purchasing the property and having the house deemed archeological, as well as the difficulties of moving machines and materials up a mountain. We also hear about the old techniques and tradespeople they worked with, as well as the required energy efficiency updates for the home.

In addition to discussing the construction project, Greg and Christos share their love for the olive oil and wine produced in their region, as well as the close-knit community life in Greece.

For more on Greg and Christos’s journey, follow them on Instagram: @2Guys.in.Greece

Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast:

• Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

For more from The Amabel Letters, follow them on:

• TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

• Instagram: @_the_amabel_letters

• Email: [email protected]

In this episode, we welcome Vito Scavetta, owner of Scavetta Renovation & Design Inc., to talk about the business choices he has made to make his construction company successful. Vito shares his strategies for managing tight schedules, building lasting relationships with clients and subs, and choosing referral and repeat clients. We also discuss the importance of showing pride in your work through trade swag and booking projects up to two years in advance. Vito also shares his thoughts on the challenges of working with injuries and finding the right tools for the job.

We also delve into some design choices that can make a big impact on a construction project, including the placement of linen closets, two-door closets, laundry locations, deck boxes, basements, and closet organizers. We even tackle the tough question of whether people want too much money for labor in the construction industry.

For more information on Scavetta Renovation & Design Inc., check out their website at ScavettaRenovations.com and follow them on social media:

• Instagram and TikTok: @Scavetta_Renos

• Facebook and YouTube: Scavetta Renovation & Design

• Email: [email protected]

Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast:

• Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

For more from The Amabel Letters, follow them on:

• TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

• Instagram: @_the_amabel_letters

• Email: [email protected]

In this episode, Max Strandwitz of Mips Protection talks about the importance of helmet and safety in the construction industry. He explains the differences between sports helmets and hard hats, the impact of an impact on a helmet, and how to choose the right helmet. He also shares the testing process for Mips Protection helmets, their focus on improving helmet safety, and the different priorities of Americans and Europeans. Tune in to learn more about how to stay safe on the job.

Links:

• Check out Mips Protection's website: MipsProtection.com

• Follow Mips Protection on Instagram: @MipsProtection

• Contact Mips Protection: [email protected]

• Follow "The Amabel Letters" on TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

• Follow "The Amabel Letters" on Instagram: @_the_amabel_letters

• Direct questions and inquiries about "The Amabel Letters" to [email protected]

• Connect with The Construction Life Podcast: text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

Join us on The Construction Life Podcast as we speak with Angelo Suntres of the Human Side of Construction about the importance of mindset in the industry. Angelo shares his insights on the challenges of marketing construction, the value of teaching new trades practical skills, and the importance of considering the end users of the buildings being constructed. We also discuss the importance of positivity on the jobsite and the impact it can have on the success of a project. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode with Angelo Suntres and be sure to check out his website, Instagram, and his brand new book, The Human Side of Construction: How to Ensure a Successful, Sustainable and Profitable Career as a Contractor, Project Manager, Estimator or Superintendent. Discover how to make the most out of your construction career by leveraging relationships and effective communication whether you are in Project Management, Estimating, Project Coordination, Field Engineering or Site Supervision. Use these techniques as a home builder or in the ICI sector to grow your reputation from construction worker to construction professional. I'll share my strategy for making the right connections to improve your career and the industry without sacrificing any relationships. In fact, here is just a sample of what you will pick up: - How to get that promotion/salary bump (increase income and live more comfortably) - Why you should "dig your well before you're thirsty" (have people ready to promote you before there is a role available) - The secret to effective relationships (avoid wasting time and energy on the wrong people) - Why most people get stuck at some point (keep things moving upward) - Why defining yourself as a "technical expert" can limit your career (make bigger moves once you learn to wear a more profitable "hat") And that's not all... this book will also show you the secrets to stand out, get ahead in your field and improve the industry and the great people in it without making anyone look bad!

Interested in Angelo Suntres? Check out his website, Suntres.ca, Instagram, @HumanSideofConstruction, or send him an email at [email protected]. Be sure to check out his new book, Construction Leadership, out early 2023.

Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast:

• Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at [email protected]

• If you have something to contribute to the podcast, email [email protected] to schedule a time to join us in studio.

For more from The Amabel Letters, follow them on:

• TikTok and Pinterest: @the_amabel_letters

• Instagram: @_the_amabel_letters

• Email: [email protected]