The Construction Life - podcast cover

The Construction Life

What is The Construction Life? The Construction Life is a daily routine of waking up at 5am, working out, showering, preparing lunch, sending off the family, driving to the construction site, organizing and preparing for the day's work, building, having fun on the job, wrapping up at the end of the day, returning home, spending time with the family, and preparing for the next day. It's a lifestyle that involves a constant commitment to hard work and a love for what you do, and it's never about settling for "good enough." The Construction Life is about striving for excellence every day.

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Episodes

#377 Chris Carrine from Blaklader joins us to talk about functional workwear

Chris Carrine from Blaklader joins us to talk about functional workwear. We break down the North American stigma against workwear and discuss combining durability and comfort, how good workwear can affect your health and increase efficiency. Listen in for maintenance tips, sneak peeks into new Blaklader lines, and general industry discussion on this episode of The Construction Life Podcast. Interested in Blaklader? Check them out at Blaklader.com or in Instagram @BlakladerNA, or get in touch wit...

Jun 28, 20231 hr 25 min

#376 Thomas of Dahl Valve Limited joins us to talk about the history of Dahl

Thomas of Dahl Valve Limited joins us to talk about the history of a Dahl. He tells us about how his father picked up a dying company and made it successful in Canada, and how he learned perseverance through it. He shows off historical Dahl products, sales pitches and order forms. Thomas shares Dahl's values, from what they mean by lifetime warranty to why they don't use automated customer service on this episode of The Construction Life Podcast. Check out Dahl Valve Limited at DahlValve.com or ...

Jun 21, 20231 hr 35 min

#375 Darren Sloane of All Temperature Thermal Insulation joins us to talk about insulating mechanical components

Darren Sloane of All Temperature Thermal Insulation joins us to talk about insulating mechanical components. He shares insights into a lesser-known industry that increases human comfort and machine longevity. We discuss the difference insulation makes, shortcuts, tech and AI possibilities and industry opportunities on this episode of The Construction Life Podcast. Interested in All Temperature Thermal Insulation? Check them out at AllTempInsulations.com , All Temperature Thermal Insulations on F...

Jun 14, 20231 hr 19 min

#374 Evan of Evan's Workshop joins us as a 15-year-old carpenter with 5 years in the business

Evan of Evan's Workshop joins us as a 15-year-old carpenter. Evan tells about starting a business at 10, being underestimated, working with exotics, epoxy pours, writing articles for magazines, and doing projects for charity. Check out this awesome kid on this episode of The Construction Life Podcast. Interested in Evan's Workshop? Check him out on his website EvansWorkshop.ca and on Instagram @Evans_Workshop, or send him an email at EvansWorkshop@icloud.com . Stay connected with The Constructio...

Jun 10, 20231 hr 26 min

#373 Relationship councillor Samantha Manovski joins us to talk about maintaining relationships and why people leave

On this episode of The Construction Life Podcast, relationship counselor Samantha Manovski joins us to discuss maintaining healthy relationships and reasons why people leave them. From offering presence to taking space, Samantha offers practical advice on how to connect intimately and when it's time to walk away. We delve into topics such as resentment, complacency, communication, healing broken hearts, and modern-day chivalry.For more relationship advice, check out WanderingLove.com.au and the ...

Jun 09, 20231 hr 32 min

#372 Nina Deeb joins us to talk about corruption in government, housing bills being passed and the housing market

Join us in this eye-opening episode of The Construction Life Podcast as we welcome Nina Deeb, an expert in government corruption and housing matters. Nina sheds light on critical topics such as Tarion and the abuses within not-for-profit organizations. She discusses the implications of interest rate fines, the lack of accountability, conflicts of interest, and actions that hinder our access to rights. Through her insights, Nina emphasizes the importance of raising our voices against injustice.To...

Jun 05, 20231 hr 47 min

#371 TCL RoundTable – Plumbers - 4 Plumbing Professionals Converse on the Plumbing Industry and Beyond

Welcome to the inaugural episode of The Construction Life Roundtable, brought to you by Dahl Valves Limited. In this engaging discussion, we delve into the world of plumbing with industry experts. Gain invaluable wisdom on everything related to plumbing, building codes, decades of knowledge, and the ins and outs of running a successful business. From expansion and hiring to training and retirement, our diverse panel covers it all.Our roundtable sessions aim to foster a sense of community among l...

Jun 01, 20233 hr 2 min

#370 Ashley Van'tFoort of Colleges and Institutes Canada joins us to talk about how small to medium businesses can get up to $10,000 for hiring apprentices

Ashley Van'tFoort from Colleges and Institutes Canada joins us to talk about how small to medium businesses can receive up to $10,000 for hiring apprentices. On this episode of The Construction Life Podcast, she provides valuable information about this opportunity, including the straightforward application process, provided training, and steps to take if the apprentice doesn't fit the business. We also discuss the challenges of apprenticeship stigma and low employee retention rates, as well as w...

May 31, 20231 hr 9 min

#369 Sarah Steele from Arriscraft-Canada Brick joins us to talk about stone, brick and promoting the masonry trade

Sarah Steele from Arriscraft-Canada Brick joins us on The Construction Life Podcast to talk about the latest trends and techniques in stone and brick masonry. She shares insights on the brick-making process, fade-resistant pigments, and how to maintain bricks for decades. We also discuss the labour shortage, where to find information on the industry, and the importance of promoting skilled trades. Tune in to learn more about this rewarding trade.Interested in Arriscraft-Canada Brick? Check out t...

May 29, 20231 hr 23 min

#368 Gavin MacRae of GJ MacRae Foundation Repair joins us to talk about taking care of your foundation

Gavin MacRae from GJ MacRae Foundation Repair discusses foundation care in this episode of The Construction Life Podcast. He shares insights into poor-quality foundations in the Greater Toronto Area, building practices in the 20th century, soil test databases, and the importance of hand digging. Gavin also reveals GJ MacRae's waterproofing technique. Discover how to minimize water damage to your foundation with Gavin's expert advice.To learn more about GJ MacRae Foundation Repair, visit their we...

May 26, 20231 hr 52 min

#367 Krish of Mahakaal Builders joins us to talk about succeeding in the construction industry as a new immigrant

Join us on The Construction Life Podcast as we chat with Krish from Mahakaal Builders about his experience succeeding in the construction industry as a new immigrant. Krish shares his story of how he entered the industry, started his business, and dealt with jealous ex-employers. We also discuss the challenges of working with frustrating clients, the importance of preparation, and the treatment of tradespeople in India.Don't miss out on valuable insights and advice from Krish as he shares his ex...

May 26, 20231 hr 39 min

#366 Jessie Balint-Szpak of Szpak Roofing joins us to talk about loving roofing

Tune in to The Construction Life Podcast as we sit down with Jessie Balint-Szpak of Szpak Roofing to talk about her love for roofing. Jessie shares her experience starting with cedar and breaking down stereotypes and vulgarity in the roofing industry. We also discuss her feature in the newspaper and her work on an all-women crew.Catch Jessie's contagious positivity as she shares her insights and passion for the roofing trade. If you're interested in learning more about Szpak Roofing, connect wit...

May 19, 20231 hr 30 min

#365 Larry La Gamba talks about the Georgetown Skilled Trades Mentorship Group and what he's doing to get kids into the skilled trades

Join us on The Construction Life Podcast as we welcome Larry La Gamba back to discuss the Georgetown Skilled Trades Mentorship Group and his efforts to inspire young people to pursue careers in the trades. Larry shares his insights on the challenges facing the skilled trades, including poor marketing and government failings, and emphasizes the importance of tradespeople taking an active role in promoting the trades to the younger generation.Discover the options available for kids to get involved...

May 17, 20231 hr 24 min

#364 Arda Ozum and Mel Jarecki from Boltrail join us to talk about the time-saving product to perfectly set anchor bolts every time

Join us on The Construction Life Podcast as we speak with Arda Ozum and Mel Jarecki from Boltrail about their innovative product that saves time and effort in setting anchor bolts perfectly every time. Arda shares the story behind the idea and how the product works, including the first prototypes ever made. We also dive into the patent process and how this Canadian product has been received in the international market.Discover a better way to price your projects and build more efficiently with B...

May 11, 20231 hr 20 min

#363 Dante White of Oppuous joins us to talk about tech with a human touch to help tradespeople save time

Dante White of Oppuous joins us to talk about tech with a human touch to help tradespeople save time. Dante tells us about making personalized tech packages, using technology to its fullest potential, AI applications in construction, and maintaining the human element. Giving tradespeople more time is the most important thing on this episode of The Construction Life Podcast. Interested in Oppuous? Check them out on their website Oppuous.com , or all over social media @Oppuous, or reach out to Dan...

May 07, 20231 hr 18 min

#362 Nick Hill and Dan Foch from The Canadian Real Estate Investor Podcast talk about real estate opportunities for tradespeople

Nick Hill and Dan Foch from The Canadian Real Estate Investor Podcast join us to talk about real estate opportunities for tradespeople. They give tradespeople advice about making multiple streams of income, how to invest with a cash income, opportunities in industrial properties, middle housing, venture take back and multiplexes. Learn how to make smart real estate investments on this episode of The Construction Life Podcast. Interested in The Canadian Real Estate Investor Podcast? Check Nick ou...

May 03, 20231 hr 25 min

#361 Anna Rossiter returns to talk to us about injustice in the construction industry Part II

Anna Rossiter returns to talk to us about injustice in the industry. We share horror stories of ignored injuries, planned collapses, negligent builders, misused farmland, and payed-off safety workers. Learn about the people who are speaking up on this episode of The Construction Life Podcast. Interested in Anna? Check her out all over social media at Answers with Anna. Stay connected with The Construction Life Podcast: Text Manny at 416 433-5737 or email him at manny@theconstructionlife.com If y...

May 01, 20231 hr 43 min

#360 Our first non-English podcast Mher Keoushkerian of Triple M Electric hosts The Construction Life in Armenian with Nerses from Big City Realty

Մհերը կը հարցնէ Ներսեսին հիմակվա եւ ապագայ ‘Րիլ ըսդէիդ՝ ի մասին, երբ գնել, Որտեղ գնել ապահով պահելու համար կարիքները Mher Asking Nerses in Armenian about current and future real estate market, investment strategies in real estate during recession, when to buy, some ideas for newcomers when to buy or what to buy (preconstruction or condo or a house), safe approach to not lose your life savings, how to play the long game rather than in and out. On IG @bigcityrealty info@bigcityreqalty.ca www.bigci...

Apr 28, 202348 min

#359 The Best Damn Roofer Joshua Bigger in the studio to talk roofing, politics, convoy, freedom and more

Explicit Content on this show so if you are easily offended then don't bother listening to this show or any of our shows Joshua Bigger The Best Damn Roofer is here to speak his mind, Mr Freedom doesn't hold back nor do I want to make him. Joshua has a lot to say about construction, roofing, tradespeople, the next generation, woke culture, politics, convoy and so much more. Fasten your toolbelt on this one. Thank you brother for speaking the truth. Reach out to Joshua IG @best.damn.roofer Twitter...

Apr 18, 20231 hr 36 min

#358 Brian Cooke of Aerobarrier Canada Inc. talks about air leakage and building cost-effective, comfortable homes

Brian Cooke, an expert from Aerobarrier Canada Inc., joins us on The Construction Life Podcast to discuss the importance of air sealing and creating cost-effective, comfortable homes. We explore the issue of air leakage, why it's not included in building codes, and how focusing on airtightness can benefit tradespeople. Brian shares insights on using pressure to seal unknown holes and the true cost of improving home energy efficiency. Discover how you can make your home more comfortable and effic...

Apr 15, 20231 hr 35 min

#357 Mathias Williams of Matt Beth Construction joins us to talk about working under pressure and teaching employees’ future skills

In this episode of The Construction Life Podcast, Mathias of Matt Beth Construction joins us to discuss specialized building rescues, working with ex-employees, commercial construction's pros and cons, and clients' recommended problem budgets. We also talk about the importance of teaching employees money management and having a low tolerance for nonsense. Listen to Mathias' insights on how to revolutionize commercial pay structures.Interested in Matt Beth Construction? Visit their website at Mat...

Apr 12, 20231 hr 22 min

#356 Pat Moore of the Professional School of Practical Stereotomy talks about the skill of 3D cutting and avoiding dependence on tools

Tune in to The Construction Life Podcast for an enlightening conversation with Pat Moore, founder of the Professional School of Practical Stereotomy. Pat shares his expertise in the ancient skill of stereotomy, including the art of 3D cutting and the importance of preserving cultural architecture. He also warns against overvaluing productivity and becoming too dependent on tools.Discover the fascinating world of stereotomy and see its amazing potential on this episode of the podcast.Interested i...

Apr 08, 20231 hr 38 min

#355 Dan Guest from Guest Plumbing and HVAC joins us to share some inspirational thinking to elevate your business

Join us for an inspiring episode of The Construction Life Podcast, where Dan Guest from Guest Plumbing and HVAC shares his positive insights on business growth. Dan talks about his personal journey through the owner-operator phase and offers valuable tips on connecting with green tradespeople. He also discusses the importance of learning from your data and how failure and fear can lead to growth. Don't miss out on Dan's infinite business model!Interested in learning more about Guest Plumbing and...

Apr 04, 20231 hr 27 min

#354 Joseph of JD Design and Build joins us to talk about tools and union experience

Joseph of JD Design and Build joins us to talk about tools and union experience. Joseph tells us how he vets clients and his construction bone to pick with greedy workers. We discuss working in the public sector, unfair layoffs, building to fail, batteries, tool brand appliances and much more on this episode of The Construction Life Podcast. Interested in JD Design and Build? Check them out on their website, JDBuildingGroup.com , or their Instagram, @JDDesignandBuild, or send them an email at JD...

Mar 30, 20231 hr 35 min

#353 Brittany Murphy of One Thing Marketing joins us to talk about marketing in the construction industry

On this episode of The Construction Life Podcast, Brittany Murphy from One Thing Marketing shares her insights on effective marketing strategies for the construction industry. She discusses the importance of proactive client outreach and offers tips on how to optimize your website, track client sources, gather testimonials, and manage negative reviews. Brittany emphasizes the significance of making clients feel comfortable and valued throughout their experience. Tune in to gain valuable marketin...

Mar 28, 20231 hr 24 min

#352 Chris Nawrot of Richardson Electrical Services talks about constant ESA changes and industrial & residential electrical

Join us on The Construction Life Podcast as we chat with Chris Nawrot, an expert from Richardson Electrical Services, about the latest changes from ESA and industrial and residential electrical works. Chris, who has extensive experience in drafting for mines before joining his dad in electrical, shares valuable insights on journeyman and master tests, arc vaults and strobe alarms, plug-in appliances, and the risks of homeowners doing their own electrical work. We also discuss low voltage issues ...

Mar 24, 20231 hr 20 min

#351 Mental Health with life cheerleader Mandy Ross

Tune in to The Construction Life Podcast as we chat with Mandy Ross, a life cheerleader, about mental health and ways to take control of our mind. Mandy shares valuable insights on how to access free resources, aside from therapy, to improve our mental health. We also discuss the importance of sleep, the impact of food on mood, overcoming shame from vulnerability, and the benefits of connecting with nature. Don't miss out on this episode where you can learn how to take ownership of your health.T...

Mar 22, 20231 hr 8 min

#350 Jamal Hoges of AG Drywall and Finishing joins us to talk about American vs Canadian drywall

Join us on The Construction Life Podcast as we talk to Jamal Hoges, founder of AG Drywall and Finishing, about the differences between American and Canadian drywall. Jamal shares his journey of transitioning from photography to the trades, driven by his passion for the industry. We dive into the challenges faced by the drywall industry in the US, including a shortage of supplies, underpaid and rushed drywallers, and explore different materials, techniques, and tools used in the trade. We also di...

Mar 18, 20231 hr 20 min

#349 Larry La Gamba of Pool Buoy Leak Detection talks about mentoring elementary school kids and pool maintenance

Join us on The Construction Life Podcast as we speak with Larry La Gamba, founder of Pool Buoy Leak Detection, about his passion for mentoring elementary school kids and the importance of pool maintenance. Larry shares his personal story of being shamed by his family for pursuing a career in trades and his goal of helping kids get out of toxic environments by introducing them to the trades. He walks us through his expertise in pool liners, water chemistry, and the differences between sonic and u...

Mar 14, 20231 hr 29 min

#348 Shawn Ramsden of Brollys Dad Construction joins us to talk about drywall, podcasts, and liars in the industry

Tune in to The Construction Life Podcast as we chat with Shawn Ramsden, founder of Brollys Dad Construction, about his expertise in drywall installation, podcasting, and his take on honesty in the construction industry. We delve into topics such as level 5 drywall finishing, bucket and box mud techniques, innovative products, the value of teaching failure, and the difference between finite and infinite business plans. Wrapping up the show, we discuss the importance of taking care of your body in...

Mar 11, 20231 hr 27 min
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