The Contracting Handbook

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Mike Knoche has been running his general contracting business for 16 years. It's been trial by fire and in The Contracting Handbook, Mike shares his successes, his failures and asks other industry leaders to join him in a discussion of how to run a contracting business! The Contracting Handbook podcast discusses the behind the scenes running of a small contracting company. It’s everything from starting up, working with employees, subcontractors, and clients. Remember, it won’t just be Mike’s perspective as he will talk to contractors from all over the world about theirs too! Why the world over? Because through his travels in the off season he’s come to see that contractors everywhere have similar business needs, struggles, and ideas in common. We a are a global community of builders! Contact Mike at info@thecontractinghandbook.com for questions, comments, or to be interviewed. Please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, comment or question. I want your feedback.

Straight Ahead Construction


    • Jun 19, 2023 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 43m AVG DURATION
    • 126 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Contracting Handbook

    Yahara Vasquez of Built By Her Construction: Architectural Engineer to Spec Homes & Breaking with Tradition

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2023 33:10


    Yahara Vasquez owns and operates Built By Her Construction @building_by_her out of Carson, Washington. With a degree in architectural engineering, she's decided that the jobs that came with the degree were not for her. She loves working with her hands. Between that and wanting to be more available for her children, Yahara built her own home and she started a contracting company. She's doing some work for the public but venturing into spec home building. While she says her role at home is fairly traditional, her career path is anything but traditional given her Mexican heritage. She  doesn't care because she wants young girls to see her in that position and is organizing to have young women to work Saturdays on her spec to learn skilled trades. I can't wait to check in with Yahara Vasquez in a couple years to see where she's gone!   Host: Mike Knoche Website: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookYouTube: @thecontractinghandbookTikTok: @tchmikeknoche Contribute:Venmo: Mike-Knoche-1 Email: info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Yahara VasquezInstagram: @building_by_her Facilitating new construction company startups, supporting the building community with new ideas and affirmation, and ushering in the next generation of builders is the mission of The Contracting Handbook podcast. Through sharing information about how we operate our businesses and live our construction lives around the world, we elevate the construction life. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify!

    Furious Fifteen: Randy Jones returns to talk company growth, adding a sales manager, and his biggest challenges at 12 years...

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2023 20:31


    Randy Jones revisits @thecontractinghandbook for a quick catch-up on the growth of his construction company @fineremodeling.de in this episode of Mike Knoche's Furious Fifteen. Randy was my second guest on the podcast back in May 2021…We hit upon:-relying on a sales manager-qualifying subcontractors-challenges to growth-“letting go”-his most challenging project to date It's an action packed 19 minutes with a bunch of random, yes/no, non-quantifiables at the end! It's another great episode with a ton of insights for anyone operating a construction company, be it general contracting or specialty trade contracting. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.comGuest: Randy JonesInstagram: @fineremodeling.de Facilitating new construction company startups, supporting the building community with new ideas and affirmation, and ushering in the next generation of builders is the mission of The Contracting Handbook podcast. Through sharing information about how we operate our businesses and live our construction lives around the world, we elevate the construction life. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify!

    Kyle Stumpenhorst on "What's good enough?", Saying "No", and Red Flags

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2023 83:17


    Post frame builder, Kyle Stumpenhorst @rrbuildings, joins Mike Knoche @thecontractinghandbook where we hit upon, not only always doing our best but:-creating enduring video content that will always help-using social media to link up with the right customers-the incorporation of building science into the workflow and fiscal tradeoffs-having more knowledge than the inspector-why he no longer subs out work-not heeding the red flags It's another great episode with a ton of insights for anyone operating a construction company, be it general contracting or specialty trade contracting. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.comGuest: Kyle StumpenhorstInstagram: @rrbuildingsYouTube: @rrbuildingsFacilitating new construction company startups, supporting the building community with new ideas and affirmation, and ushering in the next generation of builders is the mission of The Contracting Handbook podcast. Through sharing information about how we operate our businesses and live our construction lives around the world, we elevate the construction life. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! 

    Joe Canning, The Canadian Carpenter: The Impact of Influencers and His Entrance Into Trades

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2023 75:30


    Meet Joe Canning aka @canadiancarpenter and hear the story of how a guy with a degree in 3D graphic arts leaves that life behind for a career in skilled trades. With a wife, four mouths to feed, and no work available in his field, Joe went to work as the laborer under 13 framers..it's another case of the 4-year degree fallacy. So tune into to hear about Joe as an apprentice and the journey to the beard we all know and love. Then, we take a stab at the impact of Instagram influencing on the industry as a whole. At the end of the day, Joe wants to make the framing process easier for anyone willing to listen and learn. He's been reviewing tools long before Instagram was a thing and points out some flaws in that sort of promotion. Is he teaching the kids if its cool to be in the trades or that its cool to be an influencer. We don't dwell on the labor deficit but take a look the reasons why it seems like “everyone is soft”. We were raised to be tough but that has lead to a generation of parents that don't challenge their kids.  Joe is not afraid to talk about his ADHD. It's not a block. It's just a different way of thinking. He also empathizes with those suffering from anxiety but you got to deal with it in what ever way possible. Bottom line: Discipline, people!  Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Joe CanningInstagram: @canadiancarpenter Music Credit: Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme) by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals  

    Joe Mitchell of Finish Point Trim: Crew Leadership and Client Conflict

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2023 71:04


    Talk about dedication to team building, creating opportunity to learn skilled trades, and the future of craftsman, carpenter by trade, Joe Mitchell of Finish Point Trim.  Finish Point has an incredible apprenticeship program and, if you think it sounds great, they are happy to share their blueprint with you. A testament to their dedication to recruiting more young people into the skilled trades.   We dive into the idea that some people are unteachable, what it takes to coach, and why it ultimately boils down to our leadership. Joe Mitchell believes in having employee agreements instead of the standard set of rules. It there is a rotten apple, they escalate quickly to place them back in the open market rather than “horde a problem”. On clients, its on us to learn to serve them how they want, intently listening and executing. We serve to educate as well, and when they are wrong, we let them be wrong with dignity. This is one of the most inspiring talks about leadership and the need to focus on skilled trades that I have had to date. Don't miss it and please leave a review!  Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.comGuest: Joe MitchellInstagram: @joe w mitchellFacilitating new construction company startups, supporting the building community with new ideas and affirmation, and ushering in the next generation of builders is the mission of The Contracting Handbook podcast. Through sharing information about how we operate our businesses and live our construction lives around the world, we elevate the construction life. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify!  

    The Siding Guy, Desmond Tse: "Best practices for trade contractors"

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2023 98:42


    Facilitating new construction company startups, supporting the building community with new ideas and affirmation, and ushering in the next generation of builders is the mission of The Contracting Handbook podcast. Through sharing information about how we operate our businesses and live our construction lives around the world, we elevate the construction life. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Desmond TseInstagram: @thesidingguy

    S5: E1 The Nuance of Navigating Clients

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2023 25:04


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Music Credit: Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme) by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    Freddy Roman, The Period Craftsman, talks craft, how operating a business detracted from his art, and why we can't let correct terminology go.

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2023 105:11


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Freddy RomanInstagram: @periodcraftsman Music Credit: Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme) by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    Kyle Zanetto of Zanetto Builders: Luxury homebuilding in Tasmania, self improvement, and preliminary planning

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2023 52:24


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Kyle ZanettoInstagram: @zanettobuilders Music Credit: Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme) by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    Furious Fifteen: "Setting Boundaries w/ Clients" Kali Sudbrook and Allyson Anderson Return

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2023 21:51


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Allyson AndersonWebsite: Integro BuildersInstagram: @integro builders Guest: Kali SudbrookInstagram: @kalithecontractor Music Credit: Village Right Behind Him (Mike Knoche's Furious Fifteen theme song) by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitar, vocalsScott Crass- bass, vocalsBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    Allyson Anderson, Founder and CEO of Integro Builders, talks client archetypes, project influence vs. management, the nuance of contracting and at least one change order more!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2023 116:28


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Allyson AndersonWebsite: Integro BuildersInstagram: @integro builders Music Credits: "Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme)" original by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    The Roofer Girl, Samanntha De Coteau on finding her trade, how it lifted her up, and being bags on!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2023 36:53


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Sam De CoteauInstagram: @the.roofer.girl Music Credits: "Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme)" by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    Furious Fifteen: Rachel Taylor of Rachel Builds out of Los Angeles returns!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2023 32:00


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Rachel Taylor Season 2, Episode 21 !! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1 Guest: Rachel TaylorInstagram: @rachelbuilds Music Credit: Village Right Behind Him (Mike Knoche's Furious Fifteen theme song) by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocalsShow Less

    Allison Iantosca, Owner & President of FH Perry Builder on leadership and authenticity

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2023 90:45


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Allison IantoscaWebsite: FH Perry BuilderInstagram: @fhperrybuilder Music Credits: "Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme)" by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    Furious Fifteen: Ella Star of Plumberella, Christchurch, NZ returns!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2023 18:32


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress.   Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Ella Star Season 2, Episode 23 !! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1  Guest: Ella StarInstagram: Plumberella Music Credit: Village Right Behind Him (Mike Knoche's Furious Fifteen theme song) by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    Kali Sudbrook of Beachside Interiors: how her previous career experience makes her a better contractor, how her wife deals with her, fitness, leadership and tools.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2023 95:55


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Kali SudbrookInstagram: @kalithecontractor Music Credits: "Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme)" by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals "Pining for Jordon", "Kikuyu" by Mike Knoche

    When was the moment, the event, when you knew you were destined for the trades?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2023 12:13


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com

    Jeff Kelley of JK Woodworks and Timber Framing shares how he's carved out a life through his craft, why going to college helped, and his process

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2023 66:37


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave us a review on Apple  Podcasts if you have an iPhone or on Podchaser if you are an Android to help spread the word about this 100% Independently Recorded and Produced Construction Podcast! Rate us on Spotify! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Jeff KelleyInstagram: @jeffkelleywoodworksMusic: Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme) by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    Greg Eicher of Consiglio Builders talks building luxury homes, the clients, self improvement, and his favorite tool

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2023 78:33


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Greg EicherInstagram: @consiglio buildersWebsite: Consiglio Builders Music: Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme) by Tiny Pancake BreakfastDrew Frick- lead guitarScott Crass- bassBrady Anderson- drumsMike Knoche- rhythm guitar and vocals

    Bryan and Timmy Uhler: "Don't take yourself so seriously."

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2023 88:25


    My name is Mike Knoche and I'm a general contractor and reformed remodeler representing Zone 8 in Fairbanks, Alaska, I'm on a mission to catalyze the conversation in construction and give a platform to voices from across the industry at all levels of experience. The TCH podcast is a distillation of nearly 1000 years of collective construction industry knowledge and experiences through discussions with my guests over 102 episodes. It's a grass roots effort to share knowledge, empower contractors and tradespeople with knowledge and affirmation. It started off as a mission to make the business side of running a contracting business easier, but running the business is nuanced. There's making time for family, long days on the jobsite, irrational clients, stress, mental health issues, cool ideas, setting standards, honesty, integrity, respect, professionalism, and an absolute need to pull together to recruit more people in the trades, women in particular. We need more builders. What's more, the experiences are universal across the building community we're not that different no matter where we live. Since the podcast launch in May 2021, the podcast has been downloaded in over 70 countries and I am proud to tell you the TCH is now in the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. I may independently record and produce the podcast, but every GC needs good talent. Thanks to an A list of guests, we were able to build it, and the people came, as they say. Before the podcast launch, I was cynical about the construction industry with a good dash of hope. Now this hopeful cynic has found inspiration from the genuine nature of my guests, their stories, and feedback from my listeners. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guests: Tim Uhler @awesomeframersBryan Uhler @pioneerbuilders

    Aaron Butt: Deconstructing the 4 year college scheme, benefits for tradespeople, the mentor/mentee relationship

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2023 67:53


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world and has recently reached the Top 2% of all podcasts globally. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Aaron ButtInstagram: @aaronthomasaquinasMusic: Tell Nobody (The Contracting Handbook theme) by Tiny Pancake Breakfast

    Season 4 teaser: Aaron Butt, Tim & Bryan Uhler, Greg Eicher

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2023 5:03


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com

    Barbie the Welder: The Art of the Business and The Business of Art

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2022 51:53


    Episode NotesThe Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Barbie The WelderInstagram: @barbiethewelderLinkedIn: Barbie The Welder

    Fiona Plett of Herself Contracting: House healing and a builder at a crossroads

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2022 57:24


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Fiona PlettInstagram: @herself_contracting

    Michael Anschel of OA Design Build on the Cost of Project Execution (C.O.P.E.) method of estimating

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2022 82:00


    My name is Mike Knoche and I'm a general contractor and reformed remodeler representing Zone 8 in Fairbanks, Alaska, I'm on a mission to catalyze the conversation in construction and give a platform to voices from across the industry at all levels of experience. The TCH podcast is a distillation of nearly 1000 years of collective construction industry knowledge and experiences through discussions with my guests over 102 episodes. It's a grass roots effort to share knowledge, empower contractors and tradespeople with knowledge and affirmation. It started off as a mission to make the business side of running a contracting business easier, but running the business is nuanced. There's making time for family, long days on the jobsite, irrational clients, stress, mental health issues, cool ideas, setting standards, honesty, integrity, respect, professionalism, and an absolute need to pull together to recruit more people in the trades, women in particular. We need more builders. What's more, the experiences are universal across the building community we're not that different no matter where we live. Since the podcast launch in May 2021, the podcast has been downloaded in over 70 countries and I am proud to tell you the TCH is now in the Top 5% of all podcasts globally. I may independently record and produce the podcast, but every GC needs good talent. Thanks to an A list of guests, we were able to build it, and the people came, as they say. Before the podcast launch, I was cynical about the construction industry with a good dash of hope. Now this hopeful cynic has found inspiration from the genuine nature of my guests, their stories, and feedback from my listeners.Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and/ or a rating on Spotify to help spread the word for this free content! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Michael Anschel Website: C.O.P.E.Instagram: @oabuilds

    Jon Hilgenberg of JCH Cabinets talks his Craftsman Program, love of teaching, apprentice years and the circumstance that shaped him

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2022 83:23


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Jon HilgenbergIG: @jchcabinets 

    Episode 100: TCH Halloween Podcast Special- Tales from the Jobsite

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2022 66:22


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Andy Bannister @earthtoneconstructionGena Hoyt @bigdoglifex3Krystal Brookes @_paintchick_Jasper Liles @proficientbuildersLizardo Martinez @a_builders_worldJeff Pacheco @sweet_buzz_woodworksAndy Steel @frsbuildersBeau Wheelock @thebeaubuiltcoAron Jones @bigdogconstruction.gmNiya Doncheva @girlwithpowertoolsssMike Falzon @mikes_tool_funTony McKlem @Hollywood DecksHarvey Jesso @maritimecarpenterBennett Lyster @builderbennettDoug Roberts @nextlevelhandymanserviceNate Schuele @full.tilt.timber.framingParis Benay @waka_wahineAaron Butt @aaronthomasaquinasKali Sudbrook @kalithecontractorMichael Anschel @oabuildsRyan Smith @roofslayer2681 Brant Taylor @thetoolhacker Thanks to Pixabay for music and sound effectsPhoto Credit: @david w shaw

    Harvey Jesso of Maritime Carpentry & Maritime Electrical talks running two construction companies, stepping away from work at night, the retirement plan and more

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2022 50:54


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Harvey JessoIG: @maritimecarpenter@maritimeelectrical   

    Larry Clay of Clay Construction: Foundation to Finish- Building Your Company and Brand

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2022 69:38


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Larry ClayInstagram: @theclayway

    Tom Lawson of Straight Up Stairs: Pricing, Innovating, Sobriety

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2022 59:56


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Tom LawsonInstagram: @straight up stairs

    Janeen Oliver is a Third Generation Family Concreter and Advocate for Trade Recruitment

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2022 76:06


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and/ or a rating on Spotify to help spread the word for this free content! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Janeen Oliver

    Jason Bekebrede of Monticello Custom Homes on non-competitive bidding, non-negotiable components of a custom home, building a legacy and more.

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2022 52:23


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Jason BekebredeWebsite: Monticello Custom HomesInstagram: @monticellocustom

    Dan Ford of Ford Custom Renovations: Removing himself from the field and scaling up

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2022 89:31


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Dan FordInstagram: @ford.custom.renovation

    Adam Corneil Of Unbuilders: Deconstructing the Demolition Mindset

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2022 48:49


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Adam CorneilInstagram: @unbuildersdeconstructionWebsite: Unbuilders Deconstruction

    Krystal Brookes of Affordable Sunshine Coast Painting talks lining up your values for success, social presence, expectation management, her worst client, hiring, leadership and staying mentally fit.

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2022 91:47


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts and/ or a rating on Spotify to help spread the word for this free content! Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Krystal BrookesIG: @ paintchick_

    E.S. Sparks: Service manager in title, COO in function! The life of an unlicensed sparky.

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2022 98:41


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Evan SparksHandle: @e s sparks

    International Flashing Awareness Day with Big Dog Construction and The Life of Bub

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2022 68:05


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guests:Gena HoytAron Jones Garret Davis

    Niya Doncheva of Faux & Finish discusses leaving that higher education track career, the mind of a tradeswoman, client expectations and life.

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2022 54:31


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Niya DonchevaInstagram: @girlwithpowertoolsss

    Jake Bruton of Aarow Building: Act like a real company!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2022 63:07


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com Guest: Jake BrutonInstagram: @jake.bruton

    Introducing: Season 3 Guests!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2022 11:30


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com

    The Contracting Handbook: Greatest Hits of Season Two

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2022 24:07


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com 

    Please report my Instagram account, Alaska Wildfire Season, and reflecting on Africa

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 6, 2022 8:09


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com

    I was hacked, what's next, and how to protect yourself from these predators

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2022 10:43


    The Contracting Handbook podcast is all about the builders and skilled tradesmen and tradeswomen in the construction industry from all over the world. Here you'll meet the tradespeople who took a leap of faith from working their craft to running the own construction company. You'll meet people who left lucrative careers to enter the trades. For newcomers to running a construction business, there is a ton of advice on “how to” run your contracting company. For established contractors, you get to meet other industry leaders and get behind the scenes of their business and stay up to date with industry change. Mike Knoche, your host, keeps the conversation interesting. He's been operating his contracting business for over 15 years in the oddly wonderful, Fairbanks, Alaska. Mike's philosophy is “we are all experts in how we build where we live, but the business basics and business management are universal”. Join us for this global conversation on operating a construction company, mental health, cool projects, and construction industry progress. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: n/aVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1info@thecontractinghandbook.com If you're Instagram was hacked: Click here

    TCH Update and Introduction Pre- Season 3

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2022 4:10


    Mike Knoche has been running his general contracting business for 16 years. It's been trial by fire and in The Contracting Handbook, Mike shares his successes, his failures and asks other industry leaders to join him in a discussion of how to run a contracting business! The Contracting Handbook podcast discusses the behind the scenes running of a small construction company. It's everything from starting up, working with employees, subcontractors, and clients. Remember, it won't just be Mike's perspective as he will talk to contractors from all over the world about theirs too! Why the world over? Because through his travels in the off season he's come to see that contractors everywhere have similar business needs, struggles, and ideas in common. We a are a global community of builders! Contact Mike at info@thecontractinghandbook.com for questions, comments, or to be interviewed.Please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, comment or question. I want your feedback. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1

    Spencer Lewis of Insider Carpentry: Creating value and a business around his trade

    Play Episode Listen Later May 16, 2022 84:36


    Mike Knoche has been running his general contracting business for 16 years. It's been trial by fire and in The Contracting Handbook, Mike shares his successes, his failures and asks other industry leaders to join him in a discussion of how to run a contracting business! The Contracting Handbook podcast discusses the behind the scenes running of a small contracting company. It's everything from starting up, working with employees, subcontractors, and clients. Remember, it won't just be Mike's perspective as he will talk to contractors from all over the world about theirs too! Why the world over? Because through his travels in the off season he's come to see that contractors everywhere have similar business needs, struggles, and ideas in common. We a are a global community of builders! Contact Mike at info@thecontractinghandbook.com for questions, comments, or to be interviewed.Please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, comment or question. I want your feedback. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookHammr: @mikeknocheInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1 Guest: Spencer LewisInsta: @insider_carpentryYouTube: Insider Carpentry

    Eric Ruggiero- Biophilic Builds

    Play Episode Listen Later May 9, 2022 78:10


     Mike Knoche has been running his general contracting business for 16 years. It's been trial by fire and in The Contracting Handbook, Mike shares his successes, his failures and asks other industry leaders to join him in a discussion of how to run a contracting business! The Contracting Handbook podcast discusses the behind the scenes running of a small contracting company. It's everything from starting up, working with employees, subcontractors, and clients. Remember, it won't just be Mike's perspective as he will talk to contractors from all over the world about theirs too! Why the world over? Because through his travels in the off season he's come to see that contractors everywhere have similar business needs, struggles, and ideas in common. We a are a global community of builders! Contact Mike at info@thecontractinghandbook.com for questions, comments, or to be interviewed.Please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, comment or question. I want your feedback. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookHammr: @mikeknocheInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1 Guest: Eric RuggieroInsta: @biophilicbuild

    Ryan Smith: Are Skilled Trades Endangered?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 2, 2022 88:27


    If that quote doesn't have your attention maybe the second picture will.  It doesn't matter which trade your in, Ryan Smith has an urgent message. That's to teach. His passion for his craft, hand cut roofs, is only matched by that of his desire to, well, keep craft alive.  It's not just carpenters, it's plumbers, electricians, mechanics. The world is growing and the work force is shrinking.  I know, “gloom and doom”. Ok, then listen to him weave the tail of how he became an industry leader (I proclaimed that, he's humbler). Listen to him talk his mastery. It ties right back into him teaching at MT Copeland, an organization aimed at having educational programs for all trades.  After we said our goodbyes, the conversation carried on for another 15-20 minutes. We ended up talking mental health and we both want to remind you, it's ok to not be ok. It's totally normal. Can you guess what Ryan's favorite jobsite jams are without cheating? Let us know below! We'd love to hear your feedback on this one after you listen. Thanks for all of your continued support!

    Casey Finan talks ADD and trade denigration

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2022 46:44


    Mike Knoche has been running his general contracting business for 16 years. It's been trial by fire and in The Contracting Handbook, Mike shares his successes, his failures and asks other industry leaders to join him in a discussion of how to run a construction business! The Contracting Handbook podcast discusses the behind the scenes running of a small construction company. It's everything from starting up, working with employees, subcontractors, and clients. Remember, it won't just be Mike's perspective as he will talk to contractors from all over the world about theirs too! Why the world over? Because through his travels in the off season he's come to see that contractors everywhere have similar business needs, struggles, and ideas in common. We a are a global community of builders! Contact Mike at info@thecontractinghandbook.com for questions, comments, or to be interviewed.Please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, comment or question. I want your feedback. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookHammr: @mikeknocheInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1 Guest: Casey FinanHammr: Casey Finan

    Casey Finan talks blazing his own path, overcoming sickness

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2022 63:19


    Mike Knoche has been running his general contracting business for 16 years. It's been trial by fire and in The Contracting Handbook, Mike shares his successes, his failures and asks other industry leaders to join him in a discussion of how to run a construction business! The Contracting Handbook podcast discusses the behind the scenes running of a small construction company. It's everything from starting up, working with employees, subcontractors, and clients. Remember, it won't just be Mike's perspective as he will talk to contractors from all over the world about theirs too! Why the world over? Because through his travels in the off season he's come to see that contractors everywhere have similar business needs, struggles, and ideas in common. We a are a global community of builders! Contact Mike at info@thecontractinghandbook.com for questions, comments, or to be interviewed.Please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, comment or question. I want your feedback. Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookHammr: @mikeknocheInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1 Guest: Casey FinanHammr: Casey Finan

    Robin Pierson 1st year apprentice Plumber & Pipefitter

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2022 64:34


    Mike Knoche has been running his general contracting business for 16 years. It's been trial by fire and in The Contracting Handbook, Mike shares his successes, his failures and asks other industry leaders to join him in a discussion of how to run a construction business! The Contracting Handbook podcast discusses the behind the scenes running of a small construction company. It's everything from starting up, working with employees, subcontractors, and clients. Remember, it won't just be Mike's perspective as he will talk to contractors from all over the world about theirs too! Why the world over? Because through his travels in the off season he's come to see that contractors everywhere have similar business needs, struggles, and ideas in common. We a are a global community of builders! Contact Mike at info@thecontractinghandbook.com for questions, comments, or to be interviewed.Please hit the subscribe button, leave a review, comment or question. I want your feedback. Guest: Robin PiersonHammr: Robin P Host: Mike KnocheWebsite: The Contracting HandbookHammr: @mikeknocheInstagram: @thecontractinghandbookVenmo: Mike-Knoche-1

    Drew McClain of McClain Construction Group (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2022 52:49


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