Make Trades Great Again
Whether you're a seasoned professional, a newcomer, or simply interested in the trades, the "Make Trades Great Again" podcast offers something for everyone. Our goal is to promote the value of skilled trades, provide essential resources, and build a strong community of passionate individuals.
Industry Insights - Educational Content - Community Stories - Technology in Trades
Tune in now and be part of the movement to make trades great again!
Episodes
382 episodes
Going after the work you want - Listener Write-in
Thanks to Connor for writing in with his question: How do you attract the kind of clients and work you want to do? Do you say no to work or is it best to take anything and everything that comes along?
Who's Answering The Phone?
After a careful, long drawn-out (five minutes) process of consideration in selecting the exact perfect AI CSR system, intrepid business mogul Eric Aune has officially entered the AI universe lol. Eric & Andy talk about the new A...
Are Service Body's Best for a Van Buildout?
Andy and Eric share insights on HVAC projects, tool upgrades, vehicle organization, and industry trends. They discuss practical tips for van setup, the pros and cons of service bodies, and share humorous stories from the field, offering valuabl...
Robots answering the phone?
In this episode, Eric and Andy explore the practicalities, frustrations, and potential of AI-powered call answering systems in small businesses. They share personal experiences with automated systems in auto repair, healthcare, and customer ser...
Eric's Frozen Sewer & Water Debacle
Minnesota winters are relentless and physics will show no mercy! Today's episode brings back the classic MTGA format where Eric hits record without Andy knowing what the topic is. The guys cover dealing with Eric's frozen sewer and water as wel...
Fan Mail: How Can I Get Into Service Work?
Many trade professionals find themselves at a crossroads: should they continue focusing solely on installations, or is it time to branch out into the service side of the trade? In this post, we'll delve into actionable strategies for making tha...
Why we go to tradeshows: AHR Expo recap & trends
In this episode, Eric and Andy share their insights from the 2026 AHR Expo, highlighting the biggest product launches, technological innovations, and industry trends they observed. Whether you're an HVAC professional or just interested in the l...
Making Changes In The New Year
In this episode, Eric and Andy discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with the new year, focusing on revamping business practices, particularly in maintenance contracts and price book management. They emphasize the importance of mar...
Let's Talk About Bruno!
Most know him as @ nample all over social media but there is so much more to our longtime friend Bruno Friedmann hailing from Germany. We talk shop of course and encourage everyone to stay to the end to learn about Bruno's escape fr...
Nikki Krueger of Santa Fe AHR Podcast Day 1
Meet the legendary Nikki Krueger of Santa Fe live on tape from the AHR Expo Podcast Pavillion in lovely Las Vegas, NV
Our Favorite Little Tool Episode
The guys chat about tools, some favorites and the importance of proper care for tools that may save your life some day.
Frozen Houses, Oh my!
In this episode of the Make Trades Great Again podcast, Eric and Andy discuss the unusual winter weather conditions, including the challenges of frozen pipes and heating systems. They share experiences diagnosing heating issues, the...
See You In Vegas Baby!
In this episode of the Make Trades Great Again podcast, hosts Eric and Andy discuss their upcoming attendance at the AHR Expo in Las Vegas, focusing on the latest innovations in the HVAC industry. They explore the importance of product quality ...
Navigating Plumbing Supplies: Local vs Online
In this episode of the Make Trades Great Again podcast, hosts Eric and Andy discuss the nuances of sourcing plumbing supplies, weighing the pros and cons of local suppliers versus online shopping. They delve into the importance of support and w...
Questions about the Triangle Tube Shutdown
1. The Importance of Communication: During our discussion, we emphasize how critical it is for manufacturers to communicate recalls effectively. One listener from Kirksville, Missouri, shared their story about discovering a recall on t...
Our Pet’s Heads are Falling Off…
In this episode of the Make Trades Great Again podcast, hosts Eric and Andy discuss their recent work experiences, focusing on the challenges they face with equipment, troubleshooting, and customer interactions. They share stories about a boile...
Foreman Woes - Listener Mail
Andy and Eric discuss the challenges faced in the plumbing and construction industry, particularly focusing on management issues, team dynamics, quality control, and the importance of documentation. They address a listener's concern...
Technically it’s Illegal: What Would You Do?
Eric was called out to look at a heating system. Oddly it was a tank water heater installed to heat a radiant system, but that’s not right! Right? How would you handle the situation? Give us a listen and let us know by sending a mes...
Real Talk BS Session
In this episode of the Make Trades Great Again podcast, Eric and Andy discuss various challenges faced in the HVAC industry, including customer expectations, the importance of technology in service management, and the frustrations that arise fr...
Must-Have Tool for Every Field Tech
In this episode, we discuss how personal (wearable) gas monitors can save lives by detecting CO levels before they become dangerous. Don’t wait for a crisis to start thinking about safety!
Boiler Co. Calls It Quits
Eric and Andy discuss the abrupt closure of Triangle Tube, a significant player in the HVAC industry, and the implications of this decision. They explore the reasons behind the closure, including operational challenges and recalls that have pla...
Trolling Socials
In this conversation, Eric and Andy discuss the practicality and perceptions surrounding new technology in the plumbing and hvac industries. They explore the common criticisms of fittings like sharkbites while emphasizing their effectiveness in...
Adapting to Rising Material Costs in the Trades
SummaryThe guys discuss the challenges faced by tradespeople in the heating and plumbing industry, particularly focusing on the rising costs of materials and how these affect pricing and customer relationships. They explore the impac...
Risky Business 2: Tariffs & Sinking Ships
In this episode, Eric and Andy discuss the ongoing challenges and updates regarding Andy's apartment building project, including supply chain issues, equipment upgrades, and the impact of tariffs on costs. They explore the complexities of manag...
Competition Confrontation
In this episode of the Make Trades Great Again podcast, hosts Eric and Andy delve into the complexities of servicing a geothermal heat pump that has faced multiple misdiagnoses and service challenges. They discuss the ethical implications of HV...