Tools of the Trade: Your Number 1 Construction Industry Resource

If you’re big into construction tech (aka contech), you’ve most likely heard of Procore. Procore is a smart and easy-to-use platform that’s designed to help users manage their projects, resources, and financials. In this episode, you’ll learn all the basics of construction tech (and Procore) from no less than Procore’s VP himself, Jas Saraw.Jas is a successful sales executive with close to two decades of technology experience including cloud construction and cloud ERP/CRM/Financial/eCommerce and content solution. He also has a vast experience in direct sales, territory and strategic account management, and prospecting and demand creation. In today’s show, we talked to Jas about Procore and construction tech and we covered all you need to know—how contech helps increase productivity, the impact of COVID-19 on the growing tech space, where he thinks things are going contech-wise, and what the future of tech is.If you want to know more about the use of technology in the construction space and how it can help you move forward, this is one episode you shouldn’t miss!

Looking for a job and would like to know the best way to get your resume in front of the right employer? You have come to the right place! In today’s show, we covered all the basics of recruitment and got the facts straight from the expert recruiter himself, Jeremy Lawson. Jeremy is the VP of Design, Construction, and Property at PMC Specialist Recruitment Solutions, a company that specializes in the recruitment of construction and design professionals related to the buildings and infrastructure industries. Jeremy is skilled in management, interviewing, business development, and recruiting. PMC Specialist Recruitment Solutions offers flexible solutions to clients and provides crucial service offerings including screening, sourcing, and closing.In this episode, we picked Jeremy’s brain and asked him some of the most relevant questions we have about recruitment—how to know when it’s time to look for new opportunities, the benefits of working with third-party recruiters, and the value they bring to employers, among many others.Jeremy also provided some profound wisdom and shared his thoughts on comfort versus happiness and how not to sell yourself short. This episode is the right combination of valuable information and sound wisdom, so please don’t miss it!Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by CompanyCamCompanyCam is a photo-based solution created for contractors, by contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere. Photos can be annotated with drawings, arrows, comments, tags, and voice notes and users can create project timelines, photo galleries, reports, and transformation photos through the app. Sharing photos with customers and insurance adjusters has never been easier, and keeping your entire process organized has never been simpler.To get your free account today visit companycam.com/toolsTags: constructionpeoplebuildingindustryalabaster

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk August EditionToday’s guest is Chad Flinn, instructor for the first year and pre-app electrical as well as Apprentice to CEO programs at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). Chad started his career as an electrician, eventually finding his way into the education system as an instructor. With hands-on training and labs being such a large part of the apprenticeship training curriculum, I thought that now would be the perfect time to check-in with an educator and chat about the current and future state of trades education. Our conversation was wide-ranging from Chad's career path out of the field into the classroom to some of the current challenges trades teachers are facing due to Covid-19 and which models are being considered to deliver effective trades training moving forward.Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum and CompanyCamThe Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies, and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training.For more information visit www.caf-fca.orgCompanyCam is a photo-based solution created for contractors, by contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere. Photos can be annotated with drawings, arrows, comments, tags, and voice notes and users can create project timelines, photo galleries, reports, and transformation photos through the app. Sharing photos with customers and insurance adjusters has never been easier, and keeping your entire process organized has never been simpler.To get your free account today visit companycam.com/tools

When you step inside an Alabaster home, you can see and experience how every detail has been carefully considered and executed to perfection. Alabaster is a premier builder of homes. They draw inspiration from meaningful designs that span nations and centuries, from communities, and from the harmony and balance found in nature. In this episode, we talked to Alabaster’s Director of Construction, the powerful Dani Ferenc. Dani is responsible for managing the self-performing side of Alabaster’s construction projects. This powerhouse of a woman has over a decade of senior-level management experience in various aspects of construction. To date, Dani has helped build over 800 multi-family units. Dani also exhibits strong leadership in managing trades and sub-trades as well as managing cost expectations. In this episode, we covered many interesting topics such as how she manages her time, how she maintains close relationships and contacts, and how she avoids burnout. We also covered what her experience has been like as a woman in the construction industry, her volunteer work, and her advice to women who would like to get in the industry. Dani has been an absolute pleasure to talk with and if you’re a woman who’s considering a career in the construction industry or a man for that matter, Dani’s journey might just inspire you to finally give it a go!Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by CompanyCamCompanyCam is a photo-based solution created for contractors, by contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere. Photos can be annotated with drawings, arrows, comments, tags, and voice notes and users can create project timelines, photo galleries, reports, and transformation photos through the app. Sharing photos with customers and insurance adjusters has never been easier, and keeping your entire process organized has never been simpler.To get your free account today visit companycam.com/tools

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk August EditionToday’s guest is Mark Buckshon, President and Lead editor for President at Construction News and Report Group of Companies.In this episode, Mark gives us the story of how he went from foreign correspondent reporting on the Rhodesian Zimbabwe civil war to founder and lead editor of a daily news publication that spans Canada and the US.Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum and CompanyCamThe Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies, and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training.For more information visit www.caf-fca.orgCompanyCam is a photo-based solution created for contractors, by contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere. Photos can be annotated with drawings, arrows, comments, tags, and voice notes and users can create project timelines, photo galleries, reports, and transformation photos through the app. Sharing photos with customers and insurance adjusters has never been easier, and keeping your entire process organized has never been simpler.To get your free account today visit companycam.com/tools

Southwest Industrial Electric has been the leading solution to the electrical problems of Southern California for 4 decades now. With professional, prompt, and competent employees, they offer nothing but the best in terms of customer service. No wonder they’ve been recognized as Inc 5000 fastest growing company 2 years in a row.However, more than their impressive accomplishments, it was Southwest’s diverse and upbeat culture, dedication to training their employees, and their focus on ethical contracting that really piqued my interest. Fortunately, Kristin Larson and Alix Smith, Southwest’s CEO and CFO respectively, agreed to come on our show.In this episode, we covered many interesting topics including Kristin’s experience as a female CEO in the construction industry, how Alix and Kristin ended up in C-Suite positions, how COVID-19 has affected their operations, and what they have learned from the global pandemic.Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by CompanyCamCompanyCam is a photo-based solution created for contractors, by contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere. Photos can be annotated with drawings, arrows, comments, tags, and voice notes and users can create project timelines, photo galleries, reports, and transformation photos through the app. Sharing photos with customers and insurance adjusters has never been easier, and keeping your entire process organized has never been simpler.To get your free account today visit companycam.com/tools

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk July Edition. Today’s guest is Daniel Casey, red seal welder, and corporate quality manager for Lar-Mex, a building mechanical systems contractor based out of Ottawa Ontario. Dan's story is one that seems to be playing out more and more in these episodes, which is ditching the university model for the trades. After experience with multiple trades, he landed on welding, a career he found a lot of satisfaction in but he ultimately wanted to marry up his passion with a stable, salary based career close to home. In this episode, Dan gives us the story of how he got into trades and then used his passion for coaching and helping others to segway into quality management. His approach is unique, as he uses inspections as a method for coaching and making people better and quality higher. He underscores the importance of not trying to catch people in the act of poor quality work, but rather ensuring they understand why things are to be done a certain way and how to do them.We also get into a great conversation about what it takes to be a good apprentice, journeyperson and foreman. Whether you have been in the trades for your entire career or you are just getting started, this episode has something in it for you, you won't want to miss it!Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum and CompanyCamThe Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies, and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training.For more information visit www.caf-fca.orgCompanyCam is a photo-based solution created for contractors, by contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere. Photos can be annotated with drawings, arrows, comments, tags, and voice notes and users can create project timelines, photo galleries, reports, and transformation photos through the app. Sharing photos with customers and insurance adjusters has never been easier, and keeping your entire process organized has never been simpler.To get your free account today visit companycam.com/tools

Today’s special guest is the first designer I’ve had the pleasure to interview on the podcast. In this episode, I talked to award-winning interior designer Jamie Banfield. Recognized for his signature West Coast style, Jamie specializes in design for all spaces with a focus on kitchen and bath. Jamie has an innate ability to transform and create spaces that exude both beauty and function. His work has been recognized by reputable home magazines and associations throughout Western Canada. Jamie is also recognized by the National Kitchen and Bath Association as one of the industry’s Top 30 Under 30 in North America. In this episode, Jaime gave us an insight into what a day in his life as a designer and entrepreneur looks like, what functionality is for him, and what made him a force to be reckoned with in his industry. You’d surely enjoy today’s episode so don’t forget to tune in!Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by CompanyCamCompanyCam is a photo-based solution created for contractors, by contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere. Photos can be annotated with drawings, arrows, comments, tags, and voice notes and users can create project timelines, photo galleries, reports, and transformation photos through the app. Sharing photos with customers and insurance adjusters has never been easier, and keeping your entire process organized has never been simpler.To get your free account today visit companycam.com/tools

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk July Edition. In this special episode of our Monthly Toolbox Talks, we interview an amazing woman whose love for helping others knows no bounds. France Daviault has an inspiring and big heart and an impressive resume to boot. Currently, France is the executive director at the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF-FCA), a non-profit organization that connects Canada’s apprenticeship community. Prior to leading CAF-FCA with utmost ease, she served as vice president of the Automotive Industries Association of Canada where she oversaw industry programs and association operations. France earned her Certified Association Executive designation from the Canadian Society of Association Executives. A bilingual, renowned leadership professional, and advocate for apprenticeship, France holds a Master of Arts in Professional Communications from Royal Roads University (with a specialization in intercultural and international communications). In today’s show, we talked about something both close to our hearts—apprenticeship. France covered all the basics of apprenticeship, from skills gap concerns to the stigmas of blue-collar careers. This episode is powerful, inspirational, and thought-provoking, so you owe it to yourself not to miss it!Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum and CompanyCamThe Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies, and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training.For more information visit www.caf-fca.orgCompanyCam is a photo-based solution created for contractors, by contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere. Photos can be annotated with drawings, arrows, comments, tags, and voice notes and users can create project timelines, photo galleries, reports, and transformation photos through the app. Sharing photos with customers and insurance adjusters has never been easier, and keeping your entire process organized has never been simpler.To get your free account today visit companycam.com/tools

Podcasters always come to interviews prepared and I am no exception. However, at times, you talk to someone so honest, authentic, engaging, and vulnerable that you get derailed (and I mean that in a good way). The result? You’ll hear one of the most amazing and genuine conversations between two people about life, construction, vulnerability, and everything else in between! While often referred to as the deck guru, deck guy, and deck god, Paul Lafrance is so much more. Paul is also a musician, the CEO and founder of the world-renowned Paul Lafrance Design, and the doting dad to four girls. Since 1997, HGTV’s deck virtuoso has designed and installed everything from commercial outdoor spaces, custom-built homes, and revolutionary backyard retreats. In this episode, Paul not only gave us a little insight into his brilliant mind, but he also candidly shared some of the valuable wisdom he has learned over the years. If you’re a fan of the man, you’ll be in for a treat. Armed with his quick wit, infectious energy, and unapologetic vulnerability, today’s episode is a true delight, so don’t miss it!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, LinkedIn

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk June Edition. This week's episode features Campbell Macdonald entrepreneur and the CEO of Proxxi, a smart sensor that senses and interprets electricity with software. Their first product, Proxxi Band, is targeted at electrical workers. It notifies the user by vibration when they get too close to an electric current. Currently, there are no connected, always-on devices to detect electricity for the 20 million US workers covered by an electrical safety plan. Before Proxxi, Campbell co-founded Pathful, an artificial intelligence solution for enterprise marketing. Since the rise of Covid-19, Proxxi has added a new product to its wearable tech line called "Halo". Halo is a wrist-worn band that briefly vibrates to notify wearers that another band is within 6 feet (2 meters), reminding them of the need to maintain social distance. It is deployed to all personnel at a job site or workplace to help ensure a safe physical distance is maintained. Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum and CompanyCamThe Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training.For more information visit www.caf-fca.orgCompanyCam is a photo-based solution created for contractors, by contractors. Users can take unlimited photos—which are location and time stamped, sent to the cloud, and stored securely. Every photo is organized by project and instantly available to your team, allowing you to see what’s going on anytime, anywhere. Photos can be annotated with drawings, arrows, comments, tags, and voice notes and users can create project timelines, photo galleries, reports, and transformation photos through the app. Sharing photos with customers and insurance adjusters has never been easier, and keeping your entire process organized has never been simpler.To get your free account today visit companycam.com/tools

Not everyone may be aware of it but the importance of business coaching cannot be overstated. Author Andrea Schlapia provided a clear insight into the value business coaches provide when she wrote “business coaches support professionals who desire major and comprehensive improvements in all aspects of their firm. Collaboration with a coach encourages breakthroughs in change, helps manage evolution, and supports the implementation of desired outcomes.” To further explore the key role business coaches play in the success of any business, I talked to my first business coach, John Nieuwenburg. John is an award-winning professional business coach, TEDx speaker, and overall nice guy. John has been a professional business coach since 2004. To date, he has coached hundreds of clients and was awarded Canada’s CEO Trusted Advisor Award by MacKay CEO Forums in 2019. In this episode, John candidly answered some of the questions most people have about entrepreneurship and coaching—how you can hold yourself accountable, his advice for those who want to scale their business, and the common misconceptions people have about delegation. My hope is you’ll get as much value as I have from today’s episode, so please don’t miss it!

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk June Edition. These episodes focus on making construction a first choice career path by showcasing the beauty of the industry and asking the tough questions we need the answers to progress.This week's episode features Conor Kehoe, Red Seal Stonemason turned Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator (OYAP). Conor found trades later in life and helped provide him with clarity on his career path while finding something he was truly passionate about. Since then, he has moved on to helping our youth find their passion for skilled trades through OYAP programs in highschools. In this Toolbox Talk we get into the following:Why he decided to transition from the field into educationThe most gratifying part of his jobSpotlight stories of youth of have found their passionThe benefits of authentic skilled trade eventsSome ideas around breaking down the barriers to entry into skilled tradesAnd much, much more...Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship ForumThe Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training.For more information visit www.caf-fca.org

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk June Edition. These episodes are short, current, day in the life conversations with all walks of construction life! This week's episode features Jerry Pol (Business Development) and Ian Baird (Senior Project Manager) at Caliber Projects. Caliber is more than just a square foot builder, this episode had me complete fired up after Here are some key topics we discussed: In this Toolbox Talk we get into the following:Why they operate under an open book principle.What COVID has taught them that they will continue to implement.The benefits of working for a smaller sized company.How Jerry went from wanting to be a business guy to finding passion in construction.How Ian went from being a pharmaceutical scientist to a construction project manager.And much, much more...Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship ForumThe Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training.For more information visit www.caf-fca.org

While many buildings have been modernized and many homes are now made “smarter,” plumbing technology remained the same for many decades. Fortunately, people like Adam Bartman are here to change the face of plumbing for the better.Adam Bartman is the co-founder of Reed, an award-winning water management platform specially made for commercial buildings. The cloud-enabled hardware devices they produce are designed to help users control, monitor, and optimize their plumbing systems.In this episode, Adam candidly talked about his entrepreneurial journey as well as Reed’s evolution as a company. He also covered other interesting topics like the importance of delegating responsibilities and what he’ll tell his 18-year-old self. You’ll definitely hear some life and business wisdom in today’s episode, so don’t miss it!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, LinkedIn

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk June Edition. These episodes are short, current, day in the life conversations with all walks of construction life! This week's episode features Farid Poursoltani, Director of Programs for the Electrical Joint Training Committee. Here are some key topics we discussed:The importance of a non-threatening work environmentMentoring and leading apprenticesProviding the right kind of educationA future outlook on training and educating given the global pandemicAnd much, much more...Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutubeThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship ForumThe Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies, and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training.For more information visit www.caf-fca.org

To say the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed the world as we know it is an understatement. If anything, it has brought human, economic, and social crises of unprecedented proportions. It has also left people feeling anxious, bored, worried, and isolated. To help us make sense of it all, I’ve invited Dr. Ted Vokes, senior partner at E.M. Vokes, Ph.D. & Associates onto the podcast. Dr. Vokes has over 25 years of experience as a trainer, applied researcher, and consultant for diverse consumer-based, non-profit, profit, and government organizations. Apart from designing and facilitating over 300 process consultation interventions, Dr. Vokes also specializes in executive coaching, crisis management, conflict resolutions, leadership and culture management, and many others.In this episode, Dr. Vokes provided beneficial and interesting insights that are relevant to our current situation. More importantly, he also shared expert guidance and wisdom to help us better navigate these challenging times. Today’s episode is worth its weight in gold, so please don’t miss it!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, LinkedIn

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk May Edition. These episodes are short, current, day in the life conversations with all walks of construction life! This week's episode features Delaney Krieger, a First Year Apprentice Carpenter. Here are some key topics we discussed:Why she chose skilled trades, specifically carpentryWhat steps does an apprentice need to take to be successfulHer biggest challenges getting into the tradesWhat it's like being a female in a male-dominated industryHer biggest accomplishments so farAnd much, much more...Please enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Natasha is one of the few construction business owners I have met that is not only a woman in trades, but she came into her role with no prior experience in the industry. As you can hear at the front of this episode, TIB is experiencing a shortage of apprentices in the pipeline. Although there are many factors such as business size and location that make recruitment challenging, we most definitely are in the midst of a shortage. Natasha also talks about the challenges they face in educating their clients on why things cost so much. These are all topics that I can relate to as a former small electrical business owner and I am sure you can as well.In the first half of this episode, Natasha mentioned an app that they use for invoicing which is in fact called joist and it can be found here: https://www.joist.com/For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.com/maySign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, LinkedInThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship ForumThe Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies, and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training.For more information visit www.caf-fca.org

While unfortunate to note, many construction company owners leave money on the table when they lack the systems needed to operate efficiently. The good thing is today’s guest has running a systematic and successful construction business down to a science.Bryan Kaplan is a residential construction expert who helps clients systemize and scale their businesses. With 2 decades of experience under his belt, he has accumulated an enormous amount of industry knowledge, insights, and wisdom. Bryan’s mission is to help residential builders create efficient and highly profitable businesses.In this episode, Bryan tackled all the things you need to know to improve your business and your bottom line—from the systems down to the mindset, you’ll hear it all here!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, LinkedIn

TJ is a carpenter by trade and the founder of Snowdon Construction where he has taken his passion for sports and built his company like a team. He won't micromanage but he owns his role as a leader and gives his input when necessary. If you follow Snowdon Construction on Instagram you may see TJ standing a wall on a multi-family residential project or renovating a basement. He has taken the systems his crew of 30 has built to be efficient in the multi-famil game and applied them to large scale renovations; which he considers to be their niche. For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, LinkedInThis podcast is presented by The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is the Centre of Excellence for Apprenticeship Research and Innovation. A national non-profit organization connecting all members of the apprenticeship community, CAF-FCA advocates for Canada’s world-class apprenticeship system, produces meaningful data to inform strategies, and highlights innovation and promising practices in apprenticeship training. For more information visit www.caf-fca.org

David Moerman is the founder and CEO of Revive Washing, a company that specializes in the washing of home exteriors in the Metro Vancouver Area. The company gives back by donating 3 percent of its revenue to the construction of hand-dug water wells in Cambodia.In this episode, Dave talked about many interesting topics—from the apps he uses, to how he finds top talents, down to the charity work he does—he covered it all. So many beneficial tips and sound wisdom in today’s episode, so don’t miss it!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, LinkedIn

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk April Edition. These episodes are short, current, day in the life conversations with all walks of construction life! This week's episode features Rob Mcilhargey, Owner of RMCPlumbing. Here's a list of what you can expect from our conversation:How Rob got his start in the tradeHow you can get paid to go to school and start in the trades as early as grade 11#art, Pit Viper sunglasses, and the bottlecap challengeWhat we need to do better at as an industry.Current employment opportunities at RMCPlease enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

In this episode of Tools of the Trade I interview Luke Aulin, intrapreneur turned entrepreneur and a passionate small business champion. He is the Co-founder and CEO (aka mayor) of RTOWN, a Vancouver based company offering a full suite of Digital Marketing products and services to help local businesses get customers, listen to them and keep them. RTOWN's mission is to make every town RTOWN. "Luke's heart is sometimes bigger than his brain" He's addicted to uncovering better ways to serve the problems facing people and planet. His life's purpose is to help other entrepreneurs realize their dreams. He believes that business is a force for good in the world when practiced right. Luke is not only a dedicated CEO but he’s also an avid world traveler with 62 countries under his belt and hobby photographer. With so much convolution around marketing and many of us looking for that "secret sauce" that drives traffic to our businesses while increasing conversion, I wanted to get the facts.Here is what you will learn in this episode:Where service-oriented companies (construction specifically) go wrong with their marketingThe common myths and misconceptions about marketingWhere a marketing budget is best spent and where you should get started, guess what, it's not instagram!What SEO and SEM are, what they are not, and how to get started What you should look for when hiring a marketing companyFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, LinkedIn

I've always taken the alternative path to life. My class project for Career and Personal Planning (CAPP) in high school was to be a professional snowboarder. After moving to Whistler and spending 2 years as a night janitor cleaning toilets from 6pm to 3am, that dream became a reality. In 2010 I broke my ankle and lost my sponsorships, which was a perfect transition period.I enrolled at Kwantlen Polytechnic University to study business where I met my business partner. A year and a half later, we found our calling. We dropped out and launched 505-Junk to create an opportunity for ourselves that did not exist before. We uncapped our ability as entrepreneurs.I strongly believe in developing people and unlocking their potential. This core purpose is what helped guide the decision to franchise the 505-Junk business model. We would not be where we are without the support of those who have experienced our vision and were willing to share their knowledge. Over the past seven years, I have developed relationships with mentors, teachers, entrepreneurs, small business owners, billion-dollar business owners, franchisors, franchisees, and everyone in between. It is now time to share that knowledge

Welcome to the Tools of the Trade Monthly Toolbox Talk April Edition. These episodes are short, current, day in the life conversations with all walks of construction life! This week's episode features Mike Shivji, Owner of Citadel Electrical Systems. Here's a list of what you can expect from our conversation:They are hiring midterm electrical apprentices with a get-up and go attitudeMike's thoughts about leadership during covid-19Why the old school is oldSmall business mindestPlease enjoy and if you would like to participate, please send an email to colin@toolspodcast.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Melissa is the founder of Happy Leader Enterprises where she helps to ENERGIZE yourself so you have the energy needed to lead and learn. PRIORITIZE your team so they learn, grow and deliver. OPTIMIZE your results through efficiency, effectiveness, and engagement.Melissa and I caught up to talk about how we can manage ourselves and our staff through these uncertain times with a focus on Leadership, Mindset, and Productivity. I have also been compiling resources on my website at www.toolspodcast.com/covid19 there are a ton of free resources and downloads that other organizations have share to help us out programs in place and deal with uncertainty. Please share these podcasts and resources with anyone in need to help strengthen the construction community.For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Covid 19 Tools for construction professionals:This episode features Edward Matley, Partner at PWC Canada and lead of their Business Continuity program. With so many of us currently caught on our heels with the pandemic outbreak, I felt that Ed's experience would be of significant value for us construction professionals. He is able to help with not only the short term in dealing with the effect this is having on our business but in the midterm (back to work) and long term (what if we have an outage again) planning process.I have also been compiling resources on my website at www.toolspodcast.com/covid19 there are a ton of free resources and downloads that other organizations have share to help us out programs in place and deal with uncertainty. Please share these podcasts and resources with anyone in need to help strengthen the construction community.For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

This is Tools of the Trade Project Management Month Featuring: Maryam Massah, Project Management of Design, Development, and Facilities for Cactus Club Café Maryam is a project management powerhouse with a range of experience from Omicron to Shape Properties and now Cactus Club Cafes. She left a ton of tools here for everyone such as:How to hold effective meetingsHow to stop the US vs Them mentality between contractors and consultantsNegotiation tips and tricks Keep it locked and I hope you enjoy this construction Project Management Episode.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!This episode is brought to you by our partner Build a Dream. At Build a Dream, they believe there is value in highlighting all role models, but profiling females in industry demonstrates that these are attainable goals and allows other young women to imagine themselves in similar careers. Sharing insight, barriers and success is vital to influencing the future workforce. Build a Dream is honored to present today’s Woman in Industry on Tools of the Trade. For more information visit www.webuildadream.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/contactFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

This is Tools of the Trade Project Management Month Featuring: Darya Duma, Project Management Trainer for Procept Associates. Darya has a broad range of experience from the automotive industry to elevators, The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) and many different roles as a Project Management trainer and consultant. Keep it locked and I hope you enjoy this construction Project Management Episode.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!This episode is brought to you by our partner Build a Dream. At Build a Dream, they believe there is value in highlighting all role models, but profiling females in industry demonstrates that these are attainable goals and allows other young women to imagine themselves in similar careers. Sharing insight, barriers and success is vital to influencing the future workforce. Build a Dream is honored to present today’s Woman in Industry on Tools of the Trade. For more information visit www.webuildadream.comFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

This is Tools of the Trade Project Management Month Featuring: Kevin Kaczmarczyk, Project Manager for Ontario Power Generation (O.P.G). Just from speaking with Kevin, I get the sense that he is the Kobe Bryant of Project Management. He is passionate, dedicated, and focuses on honing his skills day in and day out. Keep it locked and I hope you enjoy this construction Project Management Episode.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

This is Tools of the Trade Project Management Month Featuring: Bob Mattia, retired Project Manager turned Consultant and Trainer. Bob is an extremely experienced, retired, Project Manager with a career's worth of Project Management tools and tactics that you can integrate into your company or project right now!I hope you enjoy this construction Project Management Episode.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

This is Tools of the Trade Residential Contractors Month Featuring: Brandon Smith, co-founder of New Vision Projects. Although he was already an extremely motivated individual, it was one afternoon when his debit card was declined to buy a sandwich that really poured fuel on the fire to become successful.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

This is Tools of the Trade Residential Contractors Month Featuring: Jack Payne, founder of Payne Contracting. Jack is a young yet extremely wise residential contractor from King City Ontario. After a short stint of working for a few bad contractors, he knew he had to start a company "just so he could sleep at night". Jack approaches entrepreneurship with a long term mindset. He isn't hyper-focused on growth, he isn't out to make a quick buck; instead, he is on a mission to build things that will last forever: homes and relationships with sub-trades and clients.Along with Jack's integrity, he is enthusiastic about constantly educating himself on the latest and greatest tools and building materials. You can head over to his Instagram page (16K followers) to see what goes on behind the scenes from material selection to installation. Ever wonder what it's like to be a residential builder? Check out Jack's daily vlogs over on his Youtube page.I hope you enjoy this Residential Construction Episode.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

I was recently a guest on The Site Visit's podcast where I shared my story. I hope you find value in my journey and walk away with a better understanding of the man behind the microphone at Tools of the Trade.Here is the bio and reason why I started the podcast. Enjoy!Colin has been in the construction industry for 14 years and is a Master Electrician by trade. As he progressed professionally, he realized that the construction industry was falling behind. "We are behind technologically, we have a labor shortage, there is a major lack of resources and mentors and many people are put off by the blue-collar optics of construction." Tools of the Trade was created to help bring the construction industry up by sharing stories, tools, and resources from industry professionals. "This is a billion-dollar industry and we have some major international companies that make up that billion, how come no one knows who owns them or how they got started? I think we could all use some motivation and some good resources to help us grow"Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!Check out The Site Visit Podcast HEREFor show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

As an experienced Vancouver Builder and Renovator, Abstract is proud to provide European craftsmanship and exceptional site management on every home. Sandro began building homes over 35 years ago. His wife Cheri, and their entire ‘design-build’ team, oversee Abstract’s day to day operations. Today, they’ve built one of the most successful small businesses in the lower mainland, specializing in large custom renovations and additions, highly sought after for their ‘boutique’ laneway homes and of course, meticulously built luxury custom homes. Sandro talks about his passion for building things at an early age, gives his opinion on regulation/education, and splits the difference between building to get rich and building to be the best. We hope you enjoy!Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Who is the most influential bookkeeper? Well in the time between knowing Bob, interviewing him and turning his episode live he has:Started Legacy Advantage, a cloud-based bookkeeping firm that grew from $0 to nearly $2Million in 3 years.Had 2 kids.Sold Legacy Advantage to Deloitte where it is now operating under the name CTRL.Moved from Deloitte to become VP of finance at Traction Guest, a SAAS company that is " on a mission to make hosting visitors effortless, memorable, and safe." Angel invested in the following companies:RentMoolaSpiraE-FundPhytonixWorld Tree TechnologiesCraverTouchJetVERIFYIQTo better understand where all of this passion and energy comes from, we need to wind back the clock. This is a quote from Intuit's firm of the future (Link to the whole post HERE) “My grandparents made tofu back in China. It’s very, very hard work. When my parents saw that work habit and started their business in the Czech Republic from nothing, earning enough to have us immigrate to Canada, it changed the entire destiny of our family. I watched my parents go to work early, come back late, work on weekends – I realized the reward that hard work can bring. I wanted that for myself. I want to continue this changing, and this elevation, of our legacy.”Bob gives us some great tips on the basics of small business bookkeeping, tactics he has used strike a work-life balance while growing a business and an inside look at what it takes to build a brand you can sell.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

In 87', Brian Williams and his wife Julie took a leap of faith and decided to become partners in life and in business. Seemingly overnight, Brian went from employee of a mechanical contracting company to business owner. With $10K in savings, he bought a van, wrapped it, stocked it, did a service call all in one weekend before looking after his first and what would become long term client, BC Housing. In true entrepreneurial fashion, the Williams Duo hit the ground running and it was not uncommon to catch Brian working until midnight 5-6 days per week while Julie looked after the office. Unfortunately, as the candle started to burn at both ends, Brian developed cancer. Not letting anything get him down, he forged on with a positive attitude and managed to put it into remission. Ashton has since grown by more than 1 truck per year and has been the recipient of the following awards:Brian's personal awards: 2017 Business Leadership Award from the Richmond Chamber of CommerceMilan Ilich Award for Leadership in 2013 at the Volunteers are Stars Awards2009 QSC Humanitarian Award, 2013 Nexstar Ambassador of the Year2011 Canadian Contractor Community Leader AwardAshton's Awards: 2013 Henry H Mellon Award of Merit in Job Order Contracting2010 Diversecity Culture Award for Business (1-25 employees)Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Through Build a Dream – the non-profit that she founded in 2014 — Nour utilizes her 13 years of experience as a workforce advisor, mentor, and influencer to inspire youth to make informed career choices that challenge the status quo. Her experiences are not just limited to the workplace… Nour watched her mother struggle and persevere as she started and grew a successful auto parts company in a male-dominated field.Through real-world examples of how embracing diverse workplaces leads to success, Nour connects with her audience and engages in discussions like:Recruiting (and retaining) top talentChallenging gender bias in policiesInclusive workplaces: the heart of innovationThe benefits of building each other upAsking bold questions that lead to actionNour has traveled across Canada speaking about workforce development and recruiting women for male-dominated industries. She also led a national research project with AIA Canada to develop a national strategy to help the industry attract, recruit, retain, and advance women in the automotive industry. Nour has worked on programs for youth, newcomers, women on social assistance, internationally trained doctors, and has talked with hundreds of representatives from all levels of industry, education, and government. From her role at the University of Windsor to motherhood to running a growing foundation, Nour wants to tell real stories about workplaces and share what leaders are getting right.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Jeff Kropman is the founder of KRO Performance Management and KRO’s vision is to create a healthy business ecosystem (employees, customers, vendors, competitors, community and shareholders) with Competitive Wellness™. We get into some very interesting conversations around the entrepreneurial brain and how to tame it, top talent, business plans as well as how sports teams and business teams are not so different after all. There are so many great takeaways here so make sure you listen right through to the end.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

John Beck, founder and chairman of The Aecon Group tells the story of how a small precast concrete company in Montreal become one of Canada's largest contractors in several sectors through organic, acquisition, and geographical growth. Aecon and its subsidiaries have built many Canadian landmarks that shape our skylines. If you have ever wondered how companies go public and seemingly swallow up others in the market, you won't want to miss this episode.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at: toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Scott Dekanich, founder and CEO of Netsurance Canada comes back to completely break down everything to do with insurance as it relates to construction. There are many types of insurance but really insurance is just a thing providing protection against a possible eventuality.If you are a small-sized contractor and require basic Insurance or if you are a Major Design-Build firm who performs on multi-million dollar projects this episode is guaranteed to increase your understanding of insurance and the various types.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at: toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Scott Dekanich, founder and CEO of Netsurance Canada completely breaks down everything to do with bonding as it relates to construction. Construction bonds are a type of surety bond that protects against disruptions or financial loss due to a contractor's failure to complete a project or failure to meet contract specifications.If you are a small sized contractor and require basic Safety Authority bonding or if you are a General Contractor who performs on multi-million dollar projects this episode is guaranteed to increase your understanding of bonding.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at: toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Danny learned two important things as a young age: to work hard and be humble in everything he does. Coming from a modest family, he was forced to create his own success in life. As a Dyslexic student in school, he was treated differently throughout his upbringing and his potential was questioned by everyone around him. As he grew up, these experiences fueled his desire to push boundaries and prove what was possible.From a struggling middle school student, Danny graduated high school with a 4.0 GPA, and started his own trades business, employing 12 full time staff and making enough money to buy his first home. By age 20, Danny had taken a leadership position for a franchise company and grew sales by 225% in one year, ultimately operating 100 staff and helping the organization develop its presence in Western Canada. This inspired him to take what he had learned, and help entrepreneurs all over North America move past adversity and reach their full potential.In 2015, Danny started Breakthrough Academy, a company made to help entrepreneurs in the trades grow their company’s profitability, while taking back control of their time. Breakthrough Academy is currently working with over 220 business owners across the continent, managing over $400 million worth of revenue, and was rated as Canada’s 16th fastest startup by MacLean’s magazine in 2018.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at: toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Manny Neves is ‘Not Your Average Contractor’. Manny’s career started in film but when the industry took a downturn around 2008 and tightened up, he fell into contracting. The world of construction quickly began to consume his curiosity, he started studying renovation TV and the way that contractors were marketing themselves, and soon realized 2 things: 1. Contractors lack the ability to tell a story to captivate their audience and 2. Renovation TV largely falsifies the construction industry.Without any formal construction education, Manny went on to build his company, Hardcore Renos, which is not your average contracting company. Although he prefers to be on site working with his hands, he works extremely hard behind the scenes to make a difference in the industry by delivering truth through his social accounts in the form of video content as well as his podcast “The Construction Life”.We talk about the dis-service that renovation TV shows have done for the industry, how to differentiate your company form the rest, telling your story through social media, and how he deals with his clients.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at: toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

In this leadership podcast we get to know Greg Manning who is a Project Management Professional & Passion driven Leader, with a zeal to build Innovative spaces and inspire creative design. He has proven experience managing & leading large scale projects (+120 workers), overseeing multi levels of Supervision & top level tradesmen. With a passion for fueling a positive & engaging work environment through building team trust, finding peoples motivators & capitalizing on team members strengths; Greg has gone on to create Limitless Leaders, a Life Leadership Coaching platform where he helps individuals find alignment in themselves, their work and the way they show up in the world. Greg is also an expert in productivity, creating systemized processes & procedures to improve efficiency, quality & most importantly customer satisfaction throughout construction operations. Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends.I hope you enjoy it!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at: toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

This podcast episode features Randy Brothers who is the Founder of Elite Roofing as well as Founder and Head Coach of The Roofing Academy, Author of Start It, Build It, Grow It, Subtitled the Contractors Guide to Success, and host of The Start, Build Grow Show Podcast.Randy knew from a young age that he wasn't cut out to 'work for the man' and that he would pursue the path of entrepreneurship. After starting a renovation company right as the recession hit, the market dried up and he was forced to file for bankruptcy. Not letting that stop his journey, he pulled himself together and eventually went on to build his roofing empire, Elite Roofing. Elite,which is only one if his many endeavors, has been placed twice on the Inc 5000 fastest growing private company list and continues to make waves in the roofing industry.Join me for this wide ranging conversation of how one man rose from the ashes to create an empire while continuing to bring up everyone around him.Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends.I hope you enjoy it!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at: toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube

Tim Smith, the former Executive Vice President of Ellisdon's Canadian Building Group joins Colin for an engaging conversation about working for the behemoth global contractor. EllisDon is an employee-owned construction services company that was founded and incorporated in 1951 in London, Ontario, Canada by brothers Don and David Ellis Smith.[1] The company is headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. Today Ellisdon has 15 offices, 2500 employees and annual revenues in excess of 3.5 billion dollars.Tim breaks down his start with the company, his progression into leadership, why not all advice is good advice, company culture, creating a personal brand, mindfulness meditation and much, much more. Thank you for listening, please subscribe, leave us a review and share this with your friends!For show notes, blog posts and past guests, please visit: www.toolspodcast.comSign up for Colin's newsletter HEREInterested in sponsoring the podcast? Please fill out the form at: toolspodcast.com/sponsorFor downloads of free tools, and links to resources mentioned by our guests please visit: toolspodcast.com/freetoolsFollow Colin:InstagramTwitterFacebookYoutube