The Skilled Trade Rescue Podcast

If you’re an HVAC, electrical, plumbing, construction, or welding business owner thinking about selling your company someday, this episode is a must-watch. In this VLOG, Martin talks with Jordan Gentry of Iron Oak Accounting about how skilled-trade contractors can maximize business value, clean up their books, strengthen profitability, and prepare for a smooth business exit—years before they plan to retire. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to prepare a skilled-trade business for sale and what buyers look for Why clean bookkeeping and accurate QuickBooks data can increase valuation Common financial mistakes contractors make with Section 179 and asset purchases Succession planning strategies for owners who want a key employee to take over How to build a tax-efficient 401(k) and benefits package to retain top trade talent The real reason most contractors struggle with bookkeeping, taxes, and financial planning When to consider buying your building vs. continuing to lease Why consolidators are acquiring HVAC, electrical, and construction companies—and what it means for you Jordan also breaks down how a “one-stop-shop” accounting firm supports trade businesses from startup to exit, including tax planning, wealth management, and long-term retirement planning for owners. Whether you're growing your contracting business, improving your books, or planning your eventual exit, this episode gives you the practical, real-world financial guidance every trade business owner needs.

In this episode of the Skilled Trade Rescue Podcast, host Martin King sits down with Kevin Carney, owner of Pier One Insurance Group and veteran financial advisor. Together, they unpack practical money strategies that every skilled trade professional should know. From maximizing your 401(k) and IRA to building a six-month emergency fund, Kevin explains the real-world habits that separate financial stress from financial freedom. You’ll also learn about disability insurance, budgeting, and how to protect your income if the unexpected happens. Whether you’re a new apprentice or a seasoned trades business owner, this episode delivers actionable tools to take control of your money and your future. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction to Kevin Carney 2:00 – The missing piece: financial training in the trades 3:00 – Where to start: 401(k), IRA, and annuities 5:00 – Budgeting and paying yourself first 7:00 – Disability insurance: why it matters 12:00 – Dollar-cost averaging explained 15:00 – The “Bucket Approach” to saving and investing 18:00 – Managing emotions when markets drop 20:00 – 401(k)s and ACA subsidies for self-employed tradespeople 23:00 – Roth vs. Traditional IRA—Kevin’s take 25:00 – Why every small business owner needs a CPA 27:00 – Kevin’s business, licensing, and how to reach him 🎧 Listen to more episodes and join the Skilled Trade Rescue community at: 👉 https://skilledtraderescue.com #SkilledTrade #FinancialFreedom #MoneyMindset #TradesPeople #401k #Budgeting #FinancialLiteracy #MoneyMuscle #SkilledTradeRescue

🎙 PODCAST SHOW NOTES Guest: Dan Capote — Financial Advisor | 30 Years Experience | Holistic Planner Host: Martin King – Founder, Skilled Trade Rescue Episode Summary: Dan Capote reveals the real-world money habits separating financially free tradespeople from those trapped in the paycheck-to-paycheck grind. From budgeting basics to buy/sell agreements, this conversation shows how to future-proof your trade career — even if you’ve never taken a finance class. Key Topics: Income protection for hands-on professions Emergency funds & cyclical income planning Smart spending vs “toy rich, cash poor” mentality Creative benefits strategies for small employers Navigating health insurance subsidy changes Building your financial dream team (CPA + advisor + attorney) Quotes to Highlight: “If you’re a tradesperson, you’re the ATM. If you get hurt, the money stops.” – Dan Capote “Stop trying to look successful — start building success.” – Martin King Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Dan’s background 02:00 – The real risks of working without disability coverage 05:00 – Budgeting & emergency funds for cyclical income 09:00 – Why financial education is missing in the trades 12:00 – How benefits help you keep good employees 16:00 – Upcoming healthcare subsidy shifts every contractor must know 19:00 – Why you need a financial team — not just a bookkeeper 22:00 – Smart protection moves for young business owners 25:00 – Buy/Sell agreements & planning for the unexpected 27:00 – Final advice for tradespeople ready to level up Join the Skilled Trade Rescue community for free financial tools, expert mentors, and career-growth resources → [SkilledTradeRescue.com]

🧭 Show Notes: Guest: Jeremy Melton, CEO & Founder of Impact Service Group Host: Martin P. King, Founder of Skilled Trade Rescue In this powerful episode, Martin sits down with HVAC veteran and visionary business owner Jeremy Melton to explore how leadership, humility, and purpose can transform the skilled trades industry from the inside out. Jeremy shares his 20+ year journey from plumber and welder to CEO—detailing how his father’s passing ignited his mission to “make an impact” and build a company where people come first. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities facing today’s contractors: How to attract and retain top talent in a tight labor market Why leadership and personal connection matter more than money The real story behind startup struggles—cash flow, growth, and faith How to mentor the next generation of technicians beyond technical skills Why focusing on people before profit can build unstoppable companies If you’re a skilled trade professional, business owner, or aspiring leader, this conversation will hit home. It’s a raw, honest look at what it takes to build something meaningful—and how doing the right thing always pays dividends. 🎧 Listen now and discover how to create real impact through leadership, culture, and purpose in the trades.

Are you making good money in the trades but still feeling broke? You’re not alone. In this episode, I sit down with financial advisor Rick Biel, who grew up with nothing, worked construction, and learned the hard way how to build wealth. Rick now helps everyday people—including skilled trade professionals—create financial stability, escape debt, and start building long-term net worth. We cover: ✅ Why so many in the trades earn six figures yet struggle with money ✅ The role of financial education (and what schools don’t teach) ✅ How to get out of debt and start investing (even with just $50/month) ✅ The truth about Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, and building a retirement fund ✅ Why an emergency fund is your first line of defense ✅ Common money traps that sabotage skilled workers—and how to avoid them If you’re serious about turning your trade skills into lasting wealth and security, this conversation is a must-listen.

Chris didn't just climb the career ladder; he was air-dropped into the hot seat. 🔥 He talks candidly about transitioning from the field to the front office, mastering new skills, and leading a 30+ member team. His story is a testament to the power of grit, apprenticeship, and lifelong learning. 📚✨

As a fourth-generation elevator mechanic, Chris reveals the secrets to standing out and making a mark in the family business. 🏗️🧬 From signing up for the army to counting nuts and bolts, his path was anything but conventional. 🎖️🔩

His secret sauce to success? A relentless drive and an obsession with being the best. Chris believes in the mindset of greatness and shares why your 20s should be about building expertise. 🌟👷

Check out the full interview to get inspired and learn why the best investment you can make is in your skillset. Because when it comes to success, there's no elevator; it's the stairs that take you to the top.

-------------
 Martin King here, your Skilled Trade Rescue host. Thanks for checking out the podcast. 

 Check out my latest FREE Ebooks and other resources to become the next Skilled Trade Millionaire. I did it, and SO CAN YOU!  

 GOTO: https://skilledtraderescue.com/click

 #skilledtraderescue, #skilledtrades,  #apprenticeships, #careeradvice, #careerchange, #career,#internships,#careergoals,#vocationaltraining, #bluecollarjobs, #bringbacktrades, #bluecollar, #tradesman, #tradeswoman

Today's deep dive into the evolving world of skilled trades comes courtesy of a conversation between Martin King, the dynamic force behind skilledtraderecue.com, and Ken Midgett of Interplay Learning. They discussed the game-changers in the industry: technology-enhanced learning, the promise of vocational training, and why women might be the industry's most untapped resource!

-------------
Martin King here, your Skilled Trade Rescue host.

I'm on a mission to:

✔️ Change the narrative about skilled trades! Starting by putting together a coalition of the willing to get the US Congress to make changes at BLS.gov eventually. THE BLS must speed up wage data processing and correct flawed wage data collection processes. These two issues are THE BIGGEST contributors to the false narrative that skilled trades don’t pay enough, so college is the only option. This is TOTAL B.S. !

✔️Unveil the potential in skilled trades and tackle labor shortages.

✔️Help trade workers accelerate their careers while maintaining work-life balance.

DO YOU WORK IN THE TRADES? Check out lasted EBOOKS:  https://skilledtraderescue.com/18xq

#skilledtraderescue, #skilledtrades,  #apprenticeships, #careeradvice, #careerchange, #career,#internships,#careergoals,#vocationaltraining, #bluecollarjobs, #bringbacktrades, #bluecollar, #tradesman, #tradeswoman

Watch the latest thought-provoking video presented by Martin King, owner of skilledtraderescue.com! Join the engaging podcast discussion with seasoned vocational educator Jim O’Malley, as they dissect Carlie Kirk's best-selling book "The College Scam."
-------------
 Martin King here, your Skilled Trade Rescue host.
 
 I'm on a mission to:

 ✔️ Change the narrative about skilled trades! Starting by putting together a coalition of the willing to get the US Congress to make changes at BLS.gov eventually. THE BLS must speed up wage data processing and correct flawed wage data collection processes. These two issues are THE BIGGEST contributors to the false narrative that skilled trades don’t pay enough, so college is the only option. This is TOTAL B.S. !
 
 ✔️Unveil the potential in skilled trades and tackle labor shortages.
 
 ✔️Help trade workers accelerate their careers while maintaining work-life balance.
 
 DO YOU WORK IN THE TRADES? Check out lasted EBOOKS:  https://skilledtraderescue.com/18xq

#skilledtraderescue, #skilledtrades,  #apprenticeships, #careeradvice, #careerchange, #career,#internships,#careergoals,#vocationaltraining, #bluecollarjobs, #bringbacktrades, #bluecollar, #tradesman, #tradeswoman 

🎥🔥 Are you tired of the traditional college experience and seeking an alternative path to success? 🤔 Discover the incredible journey of Greg Crumpton, a seasoned technician and advocate for skilled trades, in our latest video interview! 🛠️💼

From an early age, Greg knew he was meant for the world of skilled trades. In an exclusive conversation with Martin King, proprietor of skilledtraderecue.com, Greg delves into his captivating journey – from being a summer helper to mastering the intricate balance between math, science, and electricity in the HVACR industry. 📚⚡️

🔗 Tap the link in our bio to watch the full video on skilledtraderescue.co! Gain invaluable insights into Greg's experience as he shares how he started his career as an HVAC apprentice, learning alongside his father and a close-knit cohort of fellow apprentices. 🧑‍🏭👨‍🏫

If you're a young adult between 17 and 35 or a parent concerned about the soaring costs of college education, this video is a must-watch! 🎓💰 Discover the rewards of pursuing a skilled trade, whether you're mechanically inclined or simply looking for a more hands-on career path. 👷‍♀️🔧

🌟 Join us in celebrating the camaraderie and hard work that shape the skilled trades community. Greg's story is an inspiring reminder that dedication, hard work, and a passion for learning can lead to incredible success. 🌐🙌

-------------
 Martin King here, your Skilled Trade Rescue host.
 
 I'm on a mission to:

 ✔️ Change the narrative about skilled trades! Starting by putting together a coalition of the willing to get the US Congress to make changes at BLS.gov eventually. THE BLS must speed up wage data processing and correct flawed wage data collection processes. These two issues are THE BIGGEST contributors to the false narrative that skilled trades don’t pay enough, so college is the only option. This is TOTAL B.S. !
 
 ✔️Unveil the potential in skilled trades and tackle labor shortages.
 
 ✔️Help trade workers accelerate their careers while maintaining work-life balance.
 
 DO YOU WORK IN THE TRADES? Check out lasted EBOOKS:  https://skilledtraderescue.com/18xq

#skilledtraderescue, #skilledtrades,  #apprenticeships, #careeradvice, #careerchange, #career,#internships,#careergoals,#vocationaltraining, #bluecollarjobs, #bringbacktrades, #bluecollar, #tradesman, #tradeswoman

Discover the remarkable journey of Chris Eccleston and Jenny Kerr Schroen from Delmarva Veteran Builders as they revolutionize the perception of skilled trades. In an exclusive interview with Martin King of skilledtraderecue.com, Chris and Jenny share their passion for teaching grit, igniting potential, and achieving epic feats. 🛠️🔥

Their construction company is built on these core values, and after rebranding, they set out to bring these principles to life in a new way. 🔧🏗️

Recognizing the misconceptions surrounding skilled trades, Chris and Jenny embarked on a mission to inspire change. They decided to create children's books that showcase the incredible world of construction and trades. 📘🏡
Instead of focusing on mundane tools, they aimed to capture the spirit of grit that defines the industry. By introducing young readers to the challenges, triumphs, and heroic stories of those in the trades, they hope to shift the narrative and encourage more people to consider skilled trades as a viable and rewarding career path. 🌟👷‍♂️

Jenny's innovative tagline, "Grit leads to greatness," became the cornerstone of their endeavor. Drawing inspiration from history, particularly World War II propaganda posters, they crafted a campaign that elevated tradespeople to the status of heroes. Their goal was to highlight the unwavering determination and spirit of unity that characterize both veterans and those in the skilled trades. 🇺🇸🌆

They believe that just as people from diverse backgrounds came together during wartime to achieve extraordinary things, the same spirit drives the construction industry to build the world we live in. 🌎👏

Through their books and campaigns, Chris and Jenny aim to showcase the resilience, problem-solving abilities, and sense of purpose that define the world of skilled trades. They see grit not just as a buzzword but as an intrinsic quality that builders, craftsmen, and tradespeople embody every day. By sharing stories that celebrate these traits, they hope to inspire a new generation to consider skilled trades as a path to success, fulfillment, and financial stability. 💪📚💼

Join us in celebrating the transformative power of grit, the resilience of skilled tradespeople, and the epic stories that unfold on construction sites. Let's rewrite the narrative together and inspire a brighter future for the world of trades. 🌆🏗️

-------------
Martin King here, your Skilled Trade Rescue host.

I'm on a mission to:

✔️ Change the narrative about skilled trades! Starting by putting together a coalition of the willing to eventually get the US Congress to make changes at BLS.gov. THE BLS must speed up wage data processing and correct flawed wage data collection processes. These two issues are THE BIGGEST contributors to the false narrative that skilled trades don’t pay enough so the only option is college. This is TOTAL B.S. !

✔️Unveil the potential in skilled trades and tackle labor shortages.

✔️Help trade workers accelerate their careers while maintaining work-life balance.

DO YOU WORK IN THE TRADES? Share your story on my podcast – message me on LinkedIn.

#skilledtraderescue, #skilledtrades, #apprenticeships, #careeradvice, #careerchange, #career,#internships,#careergoals,#vocationaltraining, #bluecollarjobs, #bringbacktrades, #bluecollar, #tradesman, #tradeswoman, #SkilledTrades, #GritToGreatness, #InspiringCareers, #ChangeTheNarrative, #EpicJourney, #ConstructionHeroes