In this episode, we talk openly about what it really means to “be a badass” in business and leadership. For us, it isn’t just about toughness—it’s about how our personal struggles, life experiences, and even past trauma shaped the way we problem-solve, lead, and connect with others. We share how learning to read people, stay calm under pressure, and follow through on our word became skills we didn’t just pick up in school, but through lived experience.

We also explore how being strong doesn’t have to mean being harsh. We’ve learned that emotional intelligence, honesty, and even vulnerability are powerful tools in leadership. By sharing our stories, we hope others see that growth comes from reflection, integrity, and a willingness to do the personal work. Whether in the trades or in any business, we all have superpowers—we just need to uncover them and use them well.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness #leadership #resilientleadership #emotionalintelligence #selfgrowthjourney #leadersinthetrades #personaldevelopment

Running a business can easily slide into chaos without the right structure in place. In this episode of The Trades Accelerator, Dana and Melanie share the core items that kept their company running strong and helped them grow into a place people wanted to stay and thrive. From budgets and daily number tracking to onboarding, accountability, and quarterly planning, they walk through the tools and systems that created real stability and long-term results.

You’ll hear stories of what worked, what failed, and the small but steady steps that shifted their team from constant fire-fighting to growth. These are the same items they used with their own business, and now recommend to clients, because they know they make a difference. If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and bring clarity, consistency, and confidence to the way you run your company, this episode will give you a clear starting point.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness #leadership #accountability #growthmindset #entrepreneurtips #companyculture #smallbusinesstips

In this episode, we talk about what it really means to stay relevant in today’s fast-changing world of business and the trades. We share how paying attention to shifts in customer needs, industry changes, and new opportunities has helped us adapt and continue to grow. From leadership lessons to branding, customer service, and team development, we open up about the moments that taught us the value of keeping our eyes open to what’s happening around us.

We also highlight the power of learning together. Staying relevant isn’t something we can do on our own—it takes a team. When everyone brings ideas, perspectives, and lessons they’ve picked up along the way, we all grow stronger. By supporting each other and staying curious, we can keep moving forward with confidence no matter what changes come our way.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness #leadership #careeradvancement #trendingnow #growthstrategy #innovationmindset #professionaldevelopment

In this episode, we talk about one of our favorite tools for learning and growth—podcasts. From business insights to personal development, podcasts have become a daily part of our lives. They’ve been like free coaching sessions, helping us shift our mindset, find inspiration, and pick up strategies we can actually use in real life.

We share the shows that left the biggest impact on us, why certain voices stick, and how those lessons found their way into the way we lead, grow, and even think about challenges. Whether you’re driving, working out, or just needing a spark of motivation, the right podcast can change your perspective—and maybe even your path.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness #leadership #growthmindset #entrepreneurlife #successstories #personaldevelopment #motivation

In this episode, we dig into what it really means to be a versatile employee. We share stories of saying yes to new opportunities, stepping into unfamiliar roles, and how cross-training can make you both more valuable to your team and more secure in your career. From customer service to dispatch, and even jumping between divisions, we talk about how flexibility builds confidence and keeps doors open that might otherwise stay closed.

We also look at it from the employer’s side—why having cross-trained team members matters for stability, growth, and building a supportive workplace culture. Whether it’s protecting hours during slow seasons, finding coverage during busy ones, or simply creating processes that work across departments, versatility pays off. This is a real conversation about why being open to learn, help, and grow can change the way you work—and how you’re seen at work.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry  #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business  #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness  #leadership  
#careeradvancement #cross-training #teamculture

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Jennifer Gardner, the heart and mind behind Organized Joy. From her beginnings as an extremely shy single mom to building multiple successful businesses, Jennifer’s story is packed with moments where curiosity, intuition, and genuine connection changed everything. She shares how a chance night out at Topgolf—where she unknowingly walked into a hiring event—sparked an unexpected journey into networking, relationship building, and eventually, professional organizing.

We talk about the lessons she’s learned from starting businesses without a blueprint, the power of making people feel seen, and how remembering the little details about others can transform customer loyalty. Jennifer opens up about why she treats every client interaction as an opportunity to create joy, whether she’s organizing a home, capturing a perfect photograph, or connecting with someone at a networking event. Her journey proves that business success isn’t just about skills—it’s about heart, persistence, and being brave enough to say yes when life surprises you.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry  #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business  #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness  #leadership  
#organized #smallbusinessstories #entrepreneurmindset #networkingforbusiness #businessgrowthtips  #customerconnection #womeninbusiness

What does it really take to build a business from the ground up? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Seidi of REI Capital Guys, a serial entrepreneur who’s built—and sold—multiple companies, starting with nothing but grit, hustle, and a credit card. From working out of a basement to doing multimillion-dollar deals, Mike walks us through what it means to figure things out as you go, ask the right people for help, and trust your ability to learn what you don’t know.

We talk about starting with zero industry experience, hiring experts before knowing what a Phillips screwdriver is, and learning to thrive outside the box. Mike doesn’t sugarcoat anything—he shares real lessons from growing a business in the trades and financial industries, including how he protects investor money and why asking for help is a power move. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale with intention, this episode is packed with practical wisdom from someone who’s been through it all.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry  #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business  #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness  #leadership  
#fieldoperations #tradesbusiness #teamwork #smallbusinessgrowth #businessprocesses #managementtips #serviceindustry

In this episode, we dive into what it really looks like to build better systems for your field teams. We share how one missed ice machine spiraled into a bigger realization—that our team needed more than hustle and good intentions. They needed clear processes, better tools, and leaders who actually listened. From checklists to communication shifts, we break down what worked, what didn’t, and why the smallest changes often make the biggest difference.

We also talk about how building better field operations isn’t just about systems—it’s about people. We share the ways we stayed connected to the crew, how feedback shaped our decisions, and why team culture can't be an afterthought. If you're tired of band-aid solutions and ready for real change, this episode will hit home.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry  #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business  #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness  #leadership  
#fieldoperations #leadershipdevelopment #processimprovement #tradesleadership #teambuilding #companyculture #servicemanagement #businessgrowth

In this episode, we talk about what real customer service looks like when it’s done with heart. From sending a simple thank-you card to bringing a soda to a hot job site, we share the small, intentional touches that helped our team build trust and long-term relationships with clients. These aren’t huge gestures—they’re thoughtful habits that became part of how we do business.

We also share how we trained our team to care deeply, communicate clearly, and go above and beyond without burning out. From rewarding kindness on the job to building systems that keep service consistent, we’ve learned that great customer experiences aren’t just about skill—they’re about how we show up every day. If you want to build loyalty and stand out in a crowded industry, this one’s for you.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry  #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business  #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness  #leadership  #customerexperience, #tradesbusiness, #clientsfirst, #smallbusinessgrowth, #tradeservice, #loyalcustomers, #businessreputation, #fieldteamwins

In this episode, we flip the script and talk about interviewing from the manager’s seat. Whether you’re hiring for the first time or rebuilding a team, how you show up in the interview says just as much about your business as the candidate’s resume does. We get into the nitty-gritty: from prepping for interviews and creating a solid first impression, to what questions to ask and how to spot a good fit (even if they’re a little nervous).

We also talk about why communication matters before, during, and after the interview—and how small things like being prepared, respecting the candidate’s time, and being honest about expectations can build trust fast. This one’s for anyone doing the hiring, because strong teams start with thoughtful conversations.

Note: For the best audio experience, we recommend listening to this episode with earphones. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media accounts, as well as our hosts' social media accounts:

The Trades Accelerator:

• Instagram: @TheTradesAccelerator
• Facebook Group: The Trades Accelerator
• LinkedIn: The Trades Accelerator
• YouTube: The Trades Accelerator

Dana Staszkiewicz:

• Instagram: @DanaStaszkiewicz
• Facebook: Dana Staszkiewicz
• LinkedIn: Dana Staszkiewicz

Melanie Sloane:

• Facebook: Melanie Sloane
• LinkedIn: Melanie Sloane
  
  
  

DISCLAIMER: I hereby declare that I do not own the rights to this music/song. All rights belong to the owner. No Copyright Infringement Intended.

#thetradesaccelerator #tradesindustry  #podcast #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #business  #empoweringwomen #womenintrades #womeninbusiness  #leadership  #hiringmanagers #interviewtips #tradeshiring #teamculture #employerbranding #interviewpreparation #leadershipdevelopment #smallbusinesshiring