Shows
Blue is the New White PodcastHow Ken Rusk Built Wealth In The Trades, Without a College DegreeIn this episode of Blue Is The New White, Josh Zolin sits down with Ken Rusk, entrepreneur and author of Blue Collar Cash, to unpack the realities of building a fulfilling and financially free life through the trades. Ken talks about hiring thousands of employees, discovering what motivates people, and how vision (not education) is the real key to success. From teaching others how to find their lane to helping blue collar workers unlock their potential, this episode is a must for anyone chasing purpose and profit outside the traditional system. Tune in for practical...2025-04-151h 02
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #121 - Josh Zolin - Interview by UpstryveOn Tuesday I had the pleasure of being interviewed live by Cesar Valencia from Upstryve.com. He was kind enough to let us use the footage from that livestream as my podcast today. I thought it would be nice to be the guest on my own show for a change, instead of the host! So tune in to this episode to hear me interviewed by Cesar and maybe learn a little more about my background. Enjoy!2022-05-2054 min
The DYOJO PodcastEp. 61 Building a career, growing as a leader, and elevating the skilled trades with Josh ZolinThe DYOJO Podcast LIVE
Episode 61 - Building a career, growing as a leader, and elevating the skilled trades
Recorded LIVE Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 9am PST
The DYOJO Podcast is THE podcast for intentional restorers, helping you shorten your dang learning curve for personal and professional development. Catch us every Thursday on YouTube
SPONSOR
The DYOJO Podcast is sponsored by Advocate Claim Service (ACS), "Where you can find solutions to claims that are causing you anxiety." David Princeton and his team are ready to help you navi...2021-05-201h 05
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #58 - Jennifer Green, Skills OntarioToday, we sit down with Jennifer Green, Director of Competitions and Young Women’s Initiatives for Skills Ontario. Jennifer originally had an interest in Forensic Criminology, but before long found herself completely immersed and enthralled in being an Industrial Mechanic Millwright. This allowed her to be her true self by problem solving, working with her hands, and learning every single day. She eventually competed in Skills Canada and took home the gold in the provincial competition and the silver in the national competition. She attributes much of her success today to her experiences in the trades and no...2020-08-2144 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #57 - Mick Carbo, Carbo CoachingOur guest today is an excellent entrepreneur and coach. His name is Mick Carbo, with Carbo Coaching. He helps blue collar businesses increase productivity and profitability with leadership training. Mick shares his incredible journey that starts off shortly after high school. Immediately jumping into having a family and starting a business, Mick thought he knew it all. Right up until he didn’t. He never had the kind of guidance or support he needed to properly run his flooring business and ended up losing it all and having to start over, with less of an ego. ...2020-08-1452 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #56 - Brandon Patterson, Iowa Skilled Trades InitiativeToday, we sit down with a truly remarkable person. Not only is he vocal about the skilled trades, but he’s someone who actually takes action in bringing these rewarding careers to the forefront of America's youth. Brandon Patterson spent his early years at the parts counter, on job sites, and the like. So he was one of the lucky ones that had a true appreciation for the trades before many of his peers. After school he ended up working for Ferguson plumbing supply, which led him to Vegas during the housing boom. After that br...2020-08-071h 03
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #55 - Doug Donovan, Interplay LearningToday, we sit down with someone absolutely vital in the future of the skilled trades. He is transforming, not only the way the skills are taught, but how they appeal to today's youth. Doug Donovan, Co-Founder and CEO of Interplay Learning, is the dynamic leader behind the world’s first online training platform designed for the skilled trades he launched in 2011. Doug’s mission is to solve the critical, growing skills gap problem and rapidly accelerate the professional careers for more hands-on workers through Virtual Reality and 3D simulation training and education. For the past 9 year...2020-07-2458 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #54 - Ken Midgett & Paige Knowles, Lehigh Career and Technical InstituteToday, Kenneth Midgett (or Coach as he’s known by his students) is returning to the show. Ken is an instructor at Lehigh Career and Technical Institute. Earning instructor of the year honors in 2019. To find out more about Ken, check out the first episode I did with him. Along side him is a recent graduate and remarkable young advocate of the skilled trades. Her name is Paige Knowles. Paige just graduated from LCTI and attributes the most growth in her young life to the experiences she had while attending. Not only has she developed an unmatched wor...2020-07-1756 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #53 - Jeff Victory, Allpoints Foodservice Parts & SuppliesToday, we have someone I had the pleasure of first meeting this past spring at the RFMA annual conference. Jeff Victory is a Sr National Account Sales Manager for Allpoints Foodservice Parts & Supplies. Jeff is an awesome, intelligent, down to earth guy who never thought he would be in the trades. He grew up in the world of sports and was hoping for a scholarship to propel his career. After a few injuries, he had to let that dream go to protect himself, but worked his way up in the restaurant world to a wildly rewarding career. F...2020-07-1049 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #52 - Ken Midgett, Lehigh Career & Technical InstituteToday, we have a very special guest on the show. An incredible person, teacher, and advocate of the skilled trades. Mr Kenneth Midgett, or “coach” as he’s often referred to by his students, is a plumbing and heating instructor at Lehigh Career & Technical Institute and the NAPHCC plumbing instructor of the year for 2019. He is also a huge supporter of women in the trades, which we get into a bit in this episode. He started off at 15 years old with a local residential plumbing company. He then joined a mechanical company and before long was heavily involv...2020-07-031h 04
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #51 - Ray Clark, Schedule EngineNext up is Ray Clark, Head of Sales for Schedule Engine. I had the pleasure of meeting Ray though a virtual trade show hosted by XOi Technologies. If you want to see where the trades can lead, be sure to listen to this episode. Ray had an appreciation for the trades through high school and eventually went to school for Chemical Engineering. After college he landed a job with Carrier and was sent to a 3 month orientation to learn all about HVAC. Once equipped with the knowledge to continue his career, he hooked up with Austin Haller & Ed...2020-06-2657 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #50 - Elizabeth Moses, Windsor Mold Inc.Today, I sit down with a very driven and motivated woman. Elizabeth Moses is a machinist for Windsor Mold Inc. and has been hooked on the trades ever since she reluctantly took a woodworking course in high school. As soon as she got a taste for working with her hands, there was no stopping her. She then got involved with First Robotics and eventually decided to a pursue a career in the skilled trades. She advocates for young women in the trades through the organizations she’s involved with such as Build a Dream and WEST of Wi...2020-06-1943 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #49 - Stephen Christopher, Wit DigitalToday, we sit down with a truly inspiring human being. Those who don’t know Stephen Christopher should start following him immediately. He is constantly providing motivational and positive content, which the world needs more of. Stephan started his first business when he was 14 years old doing mobile car detailing, and has had several businesses between then and now. Eventually he got into digital marketing and re-branded to Wit Digital to start focusing on home service companies. It’s evident in this conversation that he has a profound respect for the skilled trades and the people in them...2020-06-1256 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #48 - Chris Yano, RYNO Strategic SolutionsToday we talk with someone who has done his fair share of talking. Chris Yano is the CEO of RYNO Strategic Solutions, a leading Digital Marketing company that has focused on the home services industry since 2008. He is also the host of the popular Home Services Podcast, To The Point. Chris is an experienced business owner, investor and philanthropist with a heart for the trades. He's done 1000's of keynotes, breakouts and webinars on successful digital marketing best practices for home services companies during his tenure. In 2018, Chris created a partnership with Gary Vaynechuck, CEO o...2020-06-0554 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #47 - Eric Sprague & Larry Wilberton, Blue Collar NationToday we sit down with a couple of guys that many of you already know from their own podcast, Blue Collar Nation. Eric Sprague and Larry Wilberton join me to talk all about their journey through the trades. I love talking to them because their experience is like so many others; they went to college because they wanted to come to the party, quite literally. But the bulk of their knowledge didn't come from their degrees, it came from the experiences and mentors they developed when they entered the trades as young entrepreneurs. After starting, r...2020-05-291h 01
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #46 - Todd Breiner, Middleby MarshallToday we sit down with a well traveled, well rounded individual who I consider to be one of the brightest minds in the industry. Todd Breiner, Sr VP of Middleby Marshall has tackled the business from almost every angle, giving him a birds eye view of the skilled trades & the restaurant world. Doing everything from working as an equipment dealer at Concept Services, creating his own restaurant consulting group, leading corporate development for Jasons Deli, and eventually finding his way to manufacturing as Sr VP for Middleby Marshall. Through his journey he has absorbed an ab...2020-05-2251 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #45 - Rich Malachy, Malachy Parts & ServiceYou all know him, and most of you love him... This week I sit down with the one and only Rich Malachy of Malachy Parts and Service and founder of #FEDDNation. It's been a while since we've had Rich on the show so I thought it would be great to chat with him about his experience over the last few weeks. He's had to make some incredibly tough decisions, like so many others, but hasn't taken the experience for granted. Tune in to find out how his perspective of work and life has changed, and what he's learned through th...2020-05-1537 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #44 - Don Turner, The Ron & Don ShowThis week we sit down with someone who is basically as famous as you can be in the facilities management industry. Co-host of the Ron & Don show and Facilities Manger for over 30 years, Mr Don Turner. Don shares some valuable insight here about proper steps to take in the middle of this crisis to ensure your facilities are functioning as best they can when customers start piling back in. We also talk about the mindset to be in to encourage personal development & perseverance while stuck in the house. Don has used this time to get...2020-05-0857 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #43 - John Vuong, Local SEO SearchThis week we sit down with John Vuong, Founder of Local SEO Search, Inc. John is a little out of our realm of the skilled trades, but he works with skilled trade companies on a daily basis so I thought he would have a unique perspective for our audience. John spent time selling ads for Yellow Pages before he realized that he could better serve customers doing Search Engine Optimization for their businesses himself. So, he sought to create a business to help them get known in the online world. Many of his clients are...2020-05-0146 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #42 - Ryan KinnisonToday I sit down with Ryan Kinnison of Cost Workplace Solution. Formally the facilities manager for Sprinkles Cupcakes. I've seen Ryan pretty active and vocal on LinkedIn so I thought I'd reach out and see if he'd be willing to let me pick his brain a little on everything that's going on with COVID-19. Ryan has had a long journey through the trades and has worked very hard to get where he is. As a veteran himself, he is also a huge advocate for the men & women of service, which can be seen by his daily tributes...2020-04-2429 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #41 - Danny Koontz, Collier Restaurant GroupToday's guest is one of the most respected facilities managers in the industry. He has over 35 years in facilities, with the majority of his time spent at Ruby Tuesdays overseeing more than 900 locations nationwide. Most recently Danny has found a home with Collier Restaurant Group and received the RFMy MVP Award at the latest RFMA Annual Conference in Denver. Unfortunately, like so many others right now, Danny has been furloughed. He is keeping busy however, and remaining in good spirits. In this episode we talk all about the state of the industry, how to keep a positive...2020-04-1351 min
Blue is the New White PodcastWCE // BITNW - Crisis Protocol Outline (COVID-19)It's more important than ever to be building a protocol should anything like this happen again. I wanted to share mine, even though it's incomplete and raw, in the hope that it might help others get started. Here it is: 𝐈𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐟𝐲 & 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧 - Act swiftly, don’t panic, take an advil - Gather all possible facts, circumstances, scenarios, etc - Plan for the worst - Shift sales offerings to support & assistance - Call points of contact to touch base & see what they’re thinking - Begin assigning staff additional tasks - Push collections immediately** 𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐲𝐳𝐞 & 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐤 - Build cashflow projections & burn rates - Analyze cash-on-hand - Utilize industry contacts...2020-04-1017 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #40 - Adam Bartman, Reed WaterToday I got to sit down and have a genuine conversation with a young entrepreneur from Toronto. Adam Bartman is the co-founder of REED, a plumbing technology company. His parents came to Canada just before he was born and his dad was a plumber who eventually started his own business. After high school and a short stint in college, and then an HVAC program, Adam joined the family business and helped his dad grow the company. Adam spent eight years in the field before recognizing the wide gap that needed to be filled in the "smart" plumbing...2020-04-0853 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #39 - Terry Ubl, Hai HospitalityShifting gears a little bit in these trying times. In light of the COVID-19 crisis I am on a search for hope and understanding. In this episode, Terry Ubl - Facilities Director for Hai Hospitality explains what so many are feeling right now. Uncertainty. Fear. And defeat. But Terry has some advice for everyone who was forced into a position they never wanted to be in. Adapt. Adapt. Adapt. Terry has worked in the restaurant industry all his life from serving to bar tending then to operations before he fell in love with his true cal...2020-04-0353 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #38 - Gian "Mr Manufacturing" Carlo, AmerikoolerI had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with one of the most genuine and intelligent people I've ever met. Some may know him as Gian Carlo, GC, or Mr Manufacturing and he is the President and CEO of Amerikooler Inc. The fastest growing and largest privately held walk in cooler manufacturer in the US. We talk about everything from how his grandfather got his start in manufacturing in Cuba all the way to best practices in hiring and growing a business. We also touch on the college paradigm and how valuable it can be (and cannot...2020-03-2348 min
Blue is the New White PodcastCoronavirus (COVID-19) Announcement To all of our customers & partners; past, present, and future – We wanted to give you an update on our efforts to help keep your operations up and running during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. We are closely monitoring the latest reports from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), our industry associations, and the industry as a whole. Our goal is to do everything we can do to keep your operations moving forward and people safe during this unprecedented and evolving situation. We are here to help and some of the steps we’ve taken so far include: Secured...2020-03-2010 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #37 - Rodger Smelcer, United Service TechnologiesIn this episode I get to sit down with Rodger Smelcer of United Service Technologies, a service company that services hot side equipment in major grocery chains. Rodger is an absolute WEALTH of knowledge when it comes to service, technology, and basically life in general. Give a listen to hear his story about his journey through the trades to get to where he is today and also how his company is staying ahead of the curve by adopting the newest technologies and recruiting the younger generation of technicians. Make sure you have your notepad ready, because there's too much...2020-03-1758 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #36 - Bobby Buivid, Life Not Yet RatedThis weeks episode is from one of the most inspirational guys that I know. His curiosity of everything is second only to his humor and overall outlook on life. Mr. Bobby Buivid sits down with me and takes me on a journey through, not only his career, but his mind & his heart. This guy is a master creative, and a marketing genius for Olympic Store Fixtures out of Chicago, IL. He's as real as they come and has found success in the foodservice industry, but my gut tells me that his mindset enables him to...2020-03-101h 12
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #35 - Chris McLeod, Jones-McLeod FoodserviceToday I get to sit down with Chris McLeod (pronounced "Mcloud). Chris is currently 3rd Generation President of Jones-McLeod Foodservice Equipment Parts & Sales. His story is all too familiar for a lot of folks these days. He went to college, wasn't sure what he wanted to major in, changed his major 3 or 4 times, and finally landed on Civil Engineering. Once he graduated and entered the workforce, he quickly grew tired of his cozy cubicle and decided to join the family business. Starting in the parts department, Chris worked his way through operations to eventually become pre...2020-03-0544 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #34 - Evan Priesel, Univex CorporationIn this episode, Evan and I talk about the culture in Univex and the manufacturing industry as a whole. We also discuss his perceptions and journey through college and ultimately how he ended up where he is today, Director of Marketing for one of the most renowned food equipment manufacturing companies in the US. Evan is a great example of the opportunities that exist in the world of manufacturing. A world that is often an afterthought to many students and young people. In a day and age where Fridays are coveted and Mondays are dreaded, Ev...2020-02-2843 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #33 - Brandan Helzer, Smart Care Equipment SolutionsThis week I sit down with Brandan Helzer of Smart Care Equipment Solutions. I had the privilege of being the first ever podcast that Brandan agreed to do, and I'm so glad. We dive deep into his story from his humble beginnings working at his dad's tire shop, to his college career being derailed due to a teen pregnancy, his time in the military, pest control, and ultimately to his current role of VP of Business Development for Smart Care. Brandan's story is so inspiring and proves exactly why Blue is the New White. He is...2020-02-2554 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #32 - Mike Moreno, Much More MediaToday I sit down with Mike Moreno who owns and operates a full-fledged content creation company, Much More Media. I had the pleasure of meeting Mike at the inaugural FEDD conference in Miami this year and finally got to dig into his background in this episode. Much More Media was founded in 2015 by Michael Moreno and Cristin Downs with the goal to bring their 20+ years of creative and professional entertainment expertise to the world of business to tell better stories and amplify how businesses communicate their ability to positively impact people’s lives and improve the world. Fo...2020-02-2147 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #31 - Angel Quiroz, Malachy Parts & ServiceToday I sit down with the man that is responsible for a huge shift in the perceptions of the skilled trades that we talk about so often. Angel Quiroz is the Director of Marketing for Malachy Parts & Service and the FEDD Group. He works hand in hand with Rich Malachy to market the food equipment service industry. Angel is another prime example of someone who arrived on accident, but stayed on purpose once he saw the value in this line of work. His desire to bring to light an industry kept in the dark motivates him every day...2020-02-1833 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #30 - Tersh Blissett, Service Emperor // Service Business MasteryI had the privilege of being a guest on Tersh's podcast, Service Business Mastery (go find it, it's AWESOME), just after the release of my book, Blue is the New White. Since then I've become an avid follower of Tersh and often marvel at the information he puts out and his insatiable thist for knowledge. In this episode it's my turn to learn more about him. Tersh got into the trades shortly after his military career and his the streets as a technician. After a short time (2 years) in the field he was able to cli...2020-02-131h 01
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #29 - Bob Baker, @bakerplumbingBob Baker apprenticed with his father, Gerry, from the time he could hold a wrench and eventually received his master plumbing certificate from SAIT. Due to the boom that occurred in Calgary, Gerry and Bob thought it best to split the city into halves. Gerry would look after the NW and Bob would handle the SE. In 2000, Bob started his own company naming it R. Baker Plumbing & Heating Ltd with the intent of eventually joining both his and his dad’s company together when Gerry was ready to retire. The work load provided by their clients, meant Gerry...2020-02-0457 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #28 - Happy New YearJust a quick re-introduction to the podcast going into 2020. We have picked up quite a few new listeners even though I took some time off so I figured I'd open the new year explaining who I am and what Blue is the New White aims to achieve. Kind of a boring episode if you're already a regular listener but don't worry, we'll be back soon with new guests, topics, and the like heading into 2020. Thanks for your support, everyone. And Happy New Year!2020-01-1012 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #27 - David Przybyl, WCEWe often talk ABOUT Gen Z on the show, but this week we talk TO Gen Z. Meet David Przybyl, Installer at Windy City Equipment. He is 21 years old and has been working here for almost 4 years now. Some of you may have heard me talk about a kid that came to me straight out of high school, all but begging for an opportunity. So I gave him one, taking out the trash. He worked his way up from there to parts runner, then PM technician, then installer. All in less than 4 years. How? By...2019-11-0836 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #26 - Dale Moore, Hope BuildersToday's guest is widely respected in the Facilities Management industry because of his leadership and professionalism. He started in the trades immediately after high school, forgoing a college education. He landed a job with Hope Builders working nights, taking out the trash. Through hard work and refusing to stop learning he worked his way up through the company, eventually leaving to pursue a career in Facilities Management with Chipotle Mexican Grill. After several years traveling the country and advising on various projects he returned to Hope Builders in the service management division. Dal...2019-10-3139 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #25 - Jase Wyatt, HVAC Virtual TrainingToday's guest is Jase Wyatt from Lexington, KY. Jase reached out to me on instagram because he shares the Blue is the New White mentality. Jase went to college for business because he had built his landscaping business quite steadily and heard the same narrative - "Well, then you should go to school for business!!" He never ended up completing his college career, but instead shifted gears to the HVAC world. Since then he has made his way through the ranks from tech to salesman, to consultant. Now, Jase is doing what he loves, educating...2019-10-2554 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #24 - Kelson Carter, #TradeLifeToday's guest is a 3rd generation plumber in a family owned business (Carter Services) in Indianapolis, IN. He grew up like so many; a good kid, but didn't always do great in school. And, most importantly, wasn't exactly sure what he wanted to after high school. Even though he never really saw himself as a plumber, he ended up working in new construction with his dad soon after graduation. After getting licensed and moving up in the company, Kelson began to notice the trend of technicians being few and far between. This was further enforced while attending job f...2019-10-1732 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #23 - Austin Peterson, Backbone FinancialStepping out of our realm just a little bit on this one. Although Austin grew up in a blue collar family, he personally went a different route. He had entrepreneurship in his blood, without a doubt, but his heart was in finances. Although he wanted to make sure that he still chose a route that allowed him to work alongside the skilled trades and the business owners therein. He started with entrepreneurship while still in college for business and built his company to accommodate several blue collar companies. In this episode we talk about the rew...2019-10-0235 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #22 - Gary McCreadie (HVAC Know It All)In this episode I get the opportunity to chat with, who I consider, one of the industry's greatest assets. Gary McCreadie, or as many of you know him the HVAC Know It All, shares some of his wisdom with me about how he approaches his the trades in the digital age. After attending refrigeration school, Gary hooked up with a great company in Canada where he has spent the last 20 years repairing and maintaining HVAC & Refrigeration equipment. Since then, he has gotten heavily involved with social media, starting with facebook. That grew to other platforms, a youtube cha...2019-09-2442 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #21 - Joe AndradeIn this episode we sit down with Joseph Andrade, Vice President at GEM Plumbing in Lincoln, RI. GEM Plumbing is a family business started in 1949 and, although Joe did go to college (albeit against his will), he ultimately ended up gravitating back to the trades anyway. His passion for the trades, the people in them, and what they can teach the youth of the nation is unmatched. His definition of success? Being able to mentor someone to the point where they become more successful than him. Yet again, we hear how the skilled trades can change...2019-09-1251 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #20 - Mark PadgettIn this episode we sit down with Mark Padgett, an account executive for XOi Technologies. Mark is a family man and an extreme advocate of the skilled trades. He started his career as an HVAC technician apprentice and then decided to pursue a degree in Theology. Ultimately he concluded that a career in the trades was what he wanted in life. He worked his way up through the ranks and explored many of the trajectories available in the industry until he ultimately landed in a position that serves the industry that he loves so much in ways he never...2019-09-0637 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #19 - Anthony PachecoIn this episode we sit down with Anthony Pacheco of P1311 Partnerships. Anthony is a Healthcare & Insurance consultant for the #skilledtrades industry and we have been working together for about 4 years now. I finally get to talk to him about his background in the trades. Anthony grew up in a small town in Texas called Tom Beam, with a population of about 800 people and comes from a blue collar family. In fact, he and his dad built their house from the ground up with their bare hands. After the farm and tractor life, Anthony did...2019-08-3052 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #18 - Eddie McFarlaneIn this episode we talk to an absolute wealth of knowledge in Eddie McFarlane, VP of Learning and Development at Haller Enterprises. Hailing originally from Scotland, Eddie came to America when he was 21 years old and began his career on the line. The kitchen line, as a chef. His next career was none other than a blue collar, salt of the earth, field technician. He worked his way through the ranks to the position he currently holds. As an avid learner, he eventually attended college to get a degree in business and, like so many ot...2019-08-2359 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #17 - Eric PressleyIn this episode we sit down with Eric Pressley. An air compressor technician at I&M Industrials, Inc. That's right folks, an air compressor technician is an actual thing. Bet you didn't know that! Eric and I talk about the benefits of the trades and his journey through the military before turning wrenches. Tune in to find out why this 25 year old tradesman does what he does and loves what he does! Blue is the New White: https://blueisthenewwhite.com/ Amazon: https://geni.us/blueisthenewwhite LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshzolin/ Instagram: ht...2019-08-0948 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #16 - HVAC_REFER_GUY round 2In this episode with sit down with HVAC_REFER_GUY Mike Mayberry (again) to talk a little bit about his message on social media and what the blue collar skilled trades means to the next generations. Millennials and Generation Z are taking the reigns of the trades. How do we market to them? How do we attract them to the industry? ANd how do we teach them? Check out this can't-miss episode from the Blue is the New White series NOW!! Blue is the New White: https://blueisthenewwhite.com/ Amazon: https://geni.us/blueisthenewwhite Lin...2019-07-1949 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #15 - Failure and FamilyIn this episode I focus on something that I've only touched on in almost every podcast I've ever done. What does failure mean? How does it relate to success? And, more importantly, how does that change when working with family? I'm not just talking about the skilled trades, HVAC, or Refrigeration here, I'm talking about a universal fundamental that you'll carry with you in every single aspect of your life.2019-06-2015 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #14 - Haters Gonna HateIn this episode, I call out the haters of the Blue is the New White podcast and book. There's seems to be some people out there that believe I'm pushing the wrong people into the trades. Problem, as I see it, is that we won't know who's right and who's wrong until these people actually pursue a career in the trades! #blueisthenewwhite #hvac #bluecollar2019-06-0810 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #13 - Diversity in the TradesIn this episode Jim and I talk about diversity in the trades. Hopefully we don't get too much kickback from our listeners on this topic. We discuss women & immigrants in the trades and what they mean to the future of the industry. The trades are male dominated, but they aren't biased. If you can solve problems and get the job done right, you can succeed in the trades.2019-05-2419 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White #12 - Where are the trades now?In this episode, Jim & Josh discuss some of the statistics circling the trades and how it's going to impact the industry over the long term. They focus mainly on HVAC in this episode, but the same theories can be applied to all sectors of the trades from refrigeration to restaurant maintenance to general contracting. They also discuss the REAL problems they see, as well as where to start in turning it all around. This problem might be even worse than it seems. Find out why. 2019-05-1723 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White - Industry TrainingIn this episode we introduce our new Co-Host of the Perception Evolution Project, Jim Silveira. You may remember Jim from the episode he was on last year. He brings to the table, 45+ years experience in Food Service Equipment, HVAC, and Refrigeration. He has worked in almost every area of service including technician, manager, business owner, and consultant. We are proud to introduce him to the show to share his wisdom about the history and future of the trades. In this episode we talk about technician training how it exists today, what the problems are, and what...2019-05-0937 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the new White with Joe CrawfordThis week we sit down with Joseph Crawford, Branch Operations Manager for WCE to talk about his journey through the trades. After high school he immediate got into heavy equipment repair and started his career aiding in hurricane relief in the Southeast. After that he came back to sunny Arizona to pursue being an auto mechanic. He then wanted to get into management, then went back to work at a machine shop, and eventually made his way to WCE. One of the major constants of Joe's story is that the trades never allowed him to st...2019-04-1125 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue Is The New White with XOi Technology's John CahalanThis week we sit down with John Cahalan from XOi technologies. Coming up in a family with a background in manufacturing, John got his start in the small Florida town of Lakeland and began his professional career like so many others (almost). He was awarded a scholarship and attended University of Florida for Sports Management before ultimately deciding to pursue a career working with his hands. He quickly found a job in construction, then to a modular building, and ultimately ended up working in software at XOi as the Sr. Process Engineer serving the trades in a...2019-03-2648 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPerception Evolution Project - Blue is the New White - Carlo RosauroThis episode is another interview-style sit-down for my upcoming book Blue Is The New White. Carlo Rosauro, Facilities Manager for Chipotle Mexican Grill was gracious enough to sit down and share some insight on his experience with the trades, basic fundamentals of success, and why anyone would pursue a career in this industry. Watch and Listen to another success story from someone who has seen, first-hand, how many opportunities exist in a field people rarely think to look! **We had some technical difficulties about 20min into the video, but the entire podcast can be listened...2019-03-1545 min
Blue is the New White PodcastRFMA 2019 - Females in Facilities with Molly WalterWe sat down with Molly Walter of Axxon Services to talk about Females in Facilities. As our industry grows, so does the need for a more diverse group of employees. We had a blast talking with Molly and she made some really great points on where women can thrive in the facilities industry. . . . Connect with us on Instagram! WCE: @windycityequipment Josh Zolin: @joshzolin Jake Syreini: @holleratjake NEW PODCAST #PEPTalks by WCE #PerceptionEvolutionProject Sign Up for our Newsletter! tinyurl.com/wcenewsletter FREE ACCESS TO OUR PREM...2019-03-1106 min
Blue is the New White PodcastRFMA2019 with Paul Doughty of Panda ExpressWCE's Director of Marketing Jake Syreini and Panda Express' Paul Doughty talk about what Panda looks for in a service vendor. The exchange of value and building a true partnership is mandatory. "In any business, everyone has to make a profit, but it has to be a win-win." -Paul . . . Connect with us on Instagram! WCE: @windycityequipment Josh Zolin: @joshzolin Jake Syreini: @holleratjake NEW PODCAST #PEPTalks by WCE #PerceptionEvolutionProject Sign Up for our Newsletter! tinyurl.com/wcenewsletter FREE ACCESS TO OUR PREMIUM TUTORIALS "CLICK BELOW"2019-03-0805 min
Blue is the New White PodcastRFMA 2019 with Collier Foods' Danny KoontzWCE Executive Sales Manager James Hoffman sat down with Collier Foods' Danny Koontz to talk about relationships with vendors and setting expectations. We met Danny is the isles of RFMA 2018 in Austin, Texas and invited him to our booth for a chat! ... . . . Connect with us on Instagram! WCE: @windycityequipment Josh Zolin: @joshzolin Jake Syreini: @holleratjake NEW PODCAST #PEPTalks by WCE #PerceptionEvolutionProject Sign Up for our Newsletter! tinyurl.com/wcenewsletter FREE ACCESS TO OUR PREMIUM TUTORIALS "CLICK BELOW" www.windycit...2019-03-0420 min
Blue is the New White PodcastBlue is the New White with Rich MalachyMore of an interview-style podcast with Rich Malachy, CEO of Malachy Parts and Service, for my upcoming book "Blue is the New White" Debuting in May 2019. Learn about Rich and what he does on a daily basis, his thoughts on a college education, perception of the trades, and the opportunities that our industry. Ever wonder how much money can be made in HVAC? Refrigeration? Food Service Equipment? and the like? Maybe you should start because the trades present opportunities that aren't talked about to enough. Find Rich here: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin...2019-02-2533 min
Blue is the New White PodcastRFMA 2019 with Eager AdvantageThe team from Eger Advantage stopped by our booth at the Restaurant Facility Management Association's annual conference in Austin, Texas to talk about why companies exhibit at trade shows. We also went into trade show strategies and some lessons they've learned in their 2-5 years attending the conference. This year Eger had a different objective: Looking to build relationships that have synergy and offer a deeper value proposition than just their products. It's amazing what you can learn but just asking honest questions, have a listen! . . . Connect with us on Instagram! 2019-02-1806 min
Blue is the New White PodcastTodd Sherill - It's all about what you put into it!This weeks podcast is with Todd Sherrill of Bluon Energy (https://www.bluonenergy.com/). Todd grew up in the trades and followed suit after high school...after fulfilling his full ride scholarship to rodeo school. Like so many kids during and after high school, Todd had no idea what he wanted to do the rest of his life, but he knew he wanted to be successful. He found a knack for HVAC and worked his way up from trade school to technician to business owner and now sells freon for Bluon. He is...2019-02-1133 min
Blue is the New White PodcastMicah Dyer on Going All-In in the TradesMicah Dyer loves his family, solving problems, and working in the skilled trades. In this episode, Josh and Micah go deep into the benefits of working in the trades. . . . Connect with us on Instagram! WCE: @windycityequipment Josh Zolin: @joshzolin Jake Syreini: @holleratjake NEW PODCAST #PEPTalks by WCE #PerceptionEvolutionProject Sign Up for our Newsletter! tinyurl.com/wcenewsletter FREE ACCESS TO OUR PREMIUM TUTORIALS "CLICK BELOW" www.windycityequip.com/fix-it-yourself/ Windy City Restaurant Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tutorials. Learn top tricks of the trade with our how...2019-02-0640 min
Blue is the New White PodcastFrom White to Blue COllar with Brady HaleSome people do it for the money, some do it for the fame, few do it to avenge the name of their great great ancestors. Such is the case with Brady Hale, who has found success in the trades after coming from a "white collar" job as a banker. He decided to shift gears, work with his hands, and move through the ranks in the commercial cooking equipment repair trade and now commercial HVAC/R. Everything he has done so far was all to lead him to where he's at today, being able to start his own...2019-01-3049 min
Blue is the New White PodcastSuccess in the Trades with Tyson RiggsNo matter what your definition of success is, it can be realized through what most consider to be blue collar work. The truth is that, with a little hard work and determination, a career in the trades can give you all the same things as a college education, and more. Whether you define success as time off, traveling, money, or just feeling accomplished at the end of every day, you can achieve it in this field. Tyson is a perfect example of how the trades can literally take you anywhere. As a heavy equipment mechanic...2019-01-2145 min
Blue is the New White PodcastHow To Lower Restaurant Operating CostsRestaurants are extremely expensive to operate. In this episode, Josh and Jake discuss ways to look ahead to decrease costs. . . . Connect with us on Instagram! WCE: @windycityequipment Josh Zolin: @joshzolin JakeSyreini: @holleratjake NEW PODCAST #PEPTalks by WCE #PerceptionEvolutionProject Sign Up for our Newsletter! tinyurl.com/wcenewsletter FREE ACCESS TO OUR PREMIUM TUTORIALS "CLICK BELOW" www.windycityequip.com/fix-it-yourself/ Windy City Restaurant Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tutorials. Learn top tricks of the trade with our how to repairs and do it yourself tutorials. Windy City's...2019-01-1422 min
Blue is the New White PodcastOpportunity in the Trades with Isaac MensahWCE CEO Josh Zolin sits down with Isaac Mensah to talk about his success in the trades and the opportunities he's taken advantage of since coming to America from West Africa. They discuss various topics such as the difference between college and trade school, the opportunities that exist within the trades, and the perception of the trades. Isaac is a perfect example of what it means to define success in your own way and how to use the trades to get there! . . . Connect with us on Instagram! WCE: @windycityequipment Jo...2019-01-1154 min
Blue is the New White PodcastService Companies Sell TimeService companies sell time. On this episode, Josh and Jake break down all the different ways time comes into play in the service company/customer relationship. . . . Connect with us on Instagram! WCE: @windycityequipment Josh Zolin: @joshzolin JakeSyreini: @holleratjake NEW PODCAST #PEPTalks by WCE #PerceptionEvolutionProject Sign Up for our Newsletter! tinyurl.com/wcenewsletter FREE ACCESS TO OUR PREMIUM TUTORIALS "CLICK BELOW" www.windycityequip.com/fix-it-yourself/ Windy City Restaurant Equipment Repair & Maintenance Tutorials. Learn top tricks of the trade with our how to repa...2019-01-0722 min
Blue is the New White PodcastMike Mayberry aka @HVAC_REFER_GUYWith over 33 years of experience in the HVAC/R industry, Mike Mayberry (@HVAC_REFER_GUY) weighs in on the skilled labor shortage & how he came into the trades. We also talk about what this means for future generations and what can be done to remind people that a career in the skilled trades can be just as honorable, if not more, than any other "White Collar" job. #makebluecollargreatagain #mbcga #blueisthenewwhite #hvacreferguy . . . Connect with us on Instagram! WCE: @windycityequipment Josh Zolin: @joshzolin JakeSyreini: @holleratjake NEW PODCAST #PEPTalks by...2018-12-2047 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #048 - Facilities Bridge LinkediIn Group2018-06-2717 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #047 - Facility Management 101 - How to Inspire Excellent Work from a Service Vendor2018-05-1407 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #046 - Facility Management 101 - What to Look for in a New Service Vendor2018-05-1408 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #045 - Facility Management 101 - How to Negotiate with Vendors2018-05-0108 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #044 - Facility Management 101 - How to Make an Immediate Impact2018-04-3008 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #043 - Facility Management 101 - What does a Facility Manager do?2018-04-3007 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #042 - Facility Management 101 - Introduction2018-04-1305 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #041 - Joel Zolin, Owner of Windy City Equipment2018-04-0931 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #040 - Jim Silveira2018-04-011h 12
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #039 - Preventative Maintenance - What NOT to do on Every PM - Helpful Tips2018-03-1912 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #036 - Preventative Maintenance - What to focus on most2018-03-1907 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #038 - Preventative Maintenance - What TO DO on Every PM - Helpful Tips2018-03-1808 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #037 - Preventative Maintenance - What to Include2018-03-1808 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #035: Longhorn Steakhouse's Anthony Coniglio, on the "9 minute rule" in facilities2018-03-0805 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #034 - Digital Marketing in the Restaurant Facilities Services Industry2018-03-0139 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #033 - Aaron Salow of XOi Technology2018-02-1543 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #032 with WCE Executive Sales Manager James Hoffman2018-02-0232 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #031 - Preventative Maintenance (Things To Avoid)2018-01-2907 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #030 - An Industry-Wide Problem2018-01-2906 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #029 - Preventative Maintenance (Whats The Point!)2018-01-2906 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #028 - Dayna Ciarfalia of the Concentric Corporation2018-01-2529 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #027 - What it takes to be a great Technician2018-01-1927 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #025 - Perceptions In Customer Service (Podcast In A Car)2018-01-1515 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #024 - An Introduction2018-01-1125 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #022 - How To Run A Successful Service Company - Bonus Structure (part 20)2018-01-0306 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #021 - How To Run A Successful Service Company - Disgruntled Customers (part 19)2018-01-0307 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #019 - How To Run A Successful Service Company - Chose The RIGHT Software (pt 17)2018-01-0306 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #020 - How To Run A Successful Service Company - Keep Track Of Model & Serial #! (pt 18)2018-01-0303 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #017 - How To Run A Successful Service Company - Commission - Based Pay (part 15)2018-01-0305 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #016 - How To Run A Successful Service Company - CASHFLOW (part 14)2018-01-0303 min
Blue is the New White PodcastPEP Podcast #023 - How To Run A Successful Service Company - BE TRUE (part 21:21)2018-01-0303 min