<![CDATA[Trade Life by Point Load Media]]>Trade Life by Point Load Media is a show about the real work, real pressure, and real satisfaction of building a career in the skilled trades. Host's Ian MacFayden and Michael Holmes sit down with tradespeople, business owners, apprentices, and industry voices to unpack the stories, decisions, and lessons that shape life on the tools and in the office.

From starting out as an apprentice, to running your first crew, to pricing jobs, managing clients, navigating burnout, hiring talent, and scaling a business — this show goes beyond surface-level advice and gets into the realities of the trade world as it actually is.

If you’re in the trades, hiring trades, or building something of your own, Trade Life gives you the conversations and perspectives that help you level up.

A Point Load Media Original.

]]>www.projektnetwork.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Mon, 27 Apr 2026 01:53:09 GMTTue, 25 Nov 2025 16:54:41 GMT60Point Load Media<p><b>Trade Life by Point Load Media</b> is a show about the real work, real pressure, and real satisfaction of building a career in the skilled trades. Host's <b>Ian MacFayden</b> and <b>Michael Holmes </b>sit down with tradespeople, business owners, apprentices, and industry voices to unpack the stories, decisions, and lessons that shape life on the tools and in the office.</p><p>From starting out as an apprentice, to running your first crew, to pricing jobs, managing clients, navigating burnout, hiring talent, and scaling a business — this show goes beyond surface-level advice and gets into the realities of the trade world as it actually is.</p><p>If you’re in the trades, hiring trades, or building something of your own, <b>Trade Life</b> gives you the conversations and perspectives that help you level up.</p><p><i>A Point Load Media Original.</i></p>episodicPoint Load Mediaimacfayd@projektnetwork.comyes<![CDATA[Work-Life Balance Doesn't Exist. Here's What Does]]>What if “work–life balance” isn’t real?
In this raw and reflective episode, Ian and Mike open up about their struggles to juggle entrepreneurship, fatherhood, and fulfillment - and how tragedy, growth, and passion reshaped their mindset.

💬 Topics include:

  • The story of the fisherman and the myth of “balance”
  • How grief and burnout forced a reset
  • Why passion makes you more present with your family
  • The trap of guilt and social media expectations
  • Finding your personal “sparkle” - the thing that makes you, you
]]>e35eebfb-e8b8-4e77-b045-fa66f8f64fc6Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:14:24 GMT<p>What if “work–life balance” isn’t real?<br />In this raw and reflective episode, Ian and Mike open up about their struggles to juggle entrepreneurship, fatherhood, and fulfillment - and how tragedy, growth, and passion reshaped their mindset.</p><p></p><p>💬 Topics include:</p><ul><li>The story of the fisherman and the myth of “balance”</li><li>How grief and burnout forced a reset</li><li>Why passion makes you more present with your family</li><li>The trap of guilt and social media expectations</li><li>Finding your personal “sparkle” - the thing that makes you, <i>you</i></li></ul>no00:39:34Work-Life Balance Doesn't Exist. Here's What Doesfull<![CDATA[Johnny Hourihan: No Shortcuts at This Level]]>Mike Holmes Jr. and Ian MacFayden sit down with master builder Johnny Hourihan... not in a studio, not on a job site, but inside one of his finished multi-million dollar homes.

What started as a casual walkthrough of Johnny's kitchen turned into a conversation too good to keep off the mic.

No planned questions. No setup. Just three builders standing in a space that took years of skill and obsession to perfect, and a conversation that got real fast.

Johnny opens up about what he'd do differently if he could go back - the hard lessons, the mistakes that cost him, and the standards he refuses to compromise on. They dig into project management, the Projekt Network, what separates contractors who make it from those who don't, and why this trade will eat you alive if you don't have the grit to match your ambition.

This isn't a highlight reel. It's an unplanned, unfiltered conversation between builders who've bled for this industry, and it shows.

]]>f83f0503-1fc8-4a3a-8d5a-a31194312c99Thu, 16 Apr 2026 18:52:18 GMT<p>Mike Holmes Jr. and Ian MacFayden sit down with master builder Johnny Hourihan... not in a studio, not on a job site, but inside one of his finished multi-million dollar homes. </p><p></p><p>What started as a casual walkthrough of Johnny's kitchen turned into a conversation too good to keep off the mic.</p><p>No planned questions. No setup. Just three builders standing in a space that took years of skill and obsession to perfect, and a conversation that got real fast.</p><p></p><p>Johnny opens up about what he'd do differently if he could go back - the hard lessons, the mistakes that cost him, and the standards he refuses to compromise on. They dig into project management, the Projekt Network, what separates contractors who make it from those who don't, and why this trade will eat you alive if you don't have the grit to match your ambition.</p><p></p><p>This isn't a highlight reel. It's an unplanned, unfiltered conversation between builders who've bled for this industry, and it shows.</p>no00:32:48Johnny Hourihan: No Shortcuts at This Levelfull<![CDATA[Episode 12: Resumes suck and other ramblings]]>Come join us as we sip on some bourbon and discuss why Resumes suck in the trades and the importance of documenting your work.

Also, what's your favourite thing to jam out to on the jobsite? Let us know in the comments!

Takeaways

  • Resumes are ineffective for evaluating trade skills
  • Project Network addresses the hiring challenges in the trades industry Documenting work through pictures is crucial for showcasing skills and experience
  • The importance of showcasing work details and problem-solving abilities through pictures

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Ineffectiveness of Resumes
  • 24:49 The Power of Documenting Work
  • 30:53 Building a Trade Portfolio
  • 39:00 The Impact of Music on the Job Site
]]>f5182c17-d3ae-47b5-b6f9-e2938da20934Thu, 02 Apr 2026 21:59:28 GMT<p>Come join us as we sip on some bourbon and discuss why Resumes suck in the trades and the importance of documenting your work.</p><p></p><p>Also, what's your favourite thing to jam out to on the jobsite? Let us know in the comments!</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Resumes are ineffective for evaluating trade skills</li><li>Project Network addresses the hiring challenges in the trades industry Documenting work through pictures is crucial for showcasing skills and experience</li><li>The importance of showcasing work details and problem-solving abilities through pictures</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Ineffectiveness of Resumes</li><li>24:49 The Power of Documenting Work</li><li>30:53 Building a Trade Portfolio</li><li>39:00 The Impact of Music on the Job Site</li></ul>no00:36:54Episode 12: Resumes suck and other ramblingsfull<![CDATA[Interlude. New Format!]]>Ian MacFayden and new co-host Mike Holmes Jr. share the plan for the new format going forward while enjoying a smooth bourbon.

]]>2709ba47-4981-49d4-a4f8-c2055550f4ddThu, 02 Apr 2026 21:57:26 GMT<p>Ian MacFayden and new co-host Mike Holmes Jr. share the plan for the new format going forward while enjoying a smooth bourbon.</p>no00:04:16Interlude. New Format!full<![CDATA[Episode 11: Mike Holmes Jr. on Work-Life Balance]]>The conversation delves into the challenges of work-life balance, the impact of family on priorities, and the importance of finding time for health and personal passions. It also explores the significance of resistance training and the benefits of taking care of one's physical and mental health. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to fitness, nutrition, and work-life balance. It emphasizes the importance of setting attainable goals, tracking calories, and prioritizing fitness and family time. The hosts share personal experiences and insights on weightlifting, running, yoga, and recovery.

Takeaways

  • Work-life balance is a challenge, especially when family becomes a priority.
  • Finding time for health and personal passions is essential for overall well-being. Attainable goals are key
  • Calorie tracking is eye-opening

Chapters

  • 00:00 Work-Life Balance and Family Priorities
  • 27:23 Strategies for Fitness and Well-Being
  • 38:57 Setting Attainable Goals
  • 44:28 Factors Affecting Caloric Expenditure
  • 56:49 Incorporating Yoga and Stretching
  • 01:03:15 Building Sustainable Fitness Habits
]]>1198625d-6d1b-4951-9e82-8bf3176df771Fri, 13 Mar 2026 12:50:20 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the challenges of work-life balance, the impact of family on priorities, and the importance of finding time for health and personal passions. It also explores the significance of resistance training and the benefits of taking care of one's physical and mental health. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to fitness, nutrition, and work-life balance. It emphasizes the importance of setting attainable goals, tracking calories, and prioritizing fitness and family time. The hosts share personal experiences and insights on weightlifting, running, yoga, and recovery.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Work-life balance is a challenge, especially when family becomes a priority.</li><li>Finding time for health and personal passions is essential for overall well-being. Attainable goals are key</li><li>Calorie tracking is eye-opening</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Work-Life Balance and Family Priorities</li><li>27:23 Strategies for Fitness and Well-Being</li><li>38:57 Setting Attainable Goals</li><li>44:28 Factors Affecting Caloric Expenditure</li><li>56:49 Incorporating Yoga and Stretching</li><li>01:03:15 Building Sustainable Fitness Habits</li></ul>no00:52:5111Episode 11: Mike Holmes Jr. on Work-Life Balancefull<![CDATA[Episode 10: Kyle Kelland on Recruiting]]>The conversation delves into the challenges of bad hiring experiences and the limitations of resumes and references in the trades industry. It highlights the need for a more effective approach to hiring, such as the use of work portfolios and the Projekt Network platform to showcase skills and experience. The conversation delves into the challenges of hiring the right people for construction projects, highlighting the reputation and cost implications of hiring mistakes. It also explores the criticality of oversight and trust in construction, emphasizing the importance of hiring and the potential consequences of oversight failures. The conversation delves into the critical role of attitude and cultural fit in hiring decisions, career development, and business success. It emphasizes the importance of investing in apprentices and junior staff, showcasing work and attitude, and the impact of attitude on business reputation and efficiency.

Takeaways

  • Bad hiring experiences
  • Challenges with resumes and references Importance of hiring the right people
  • Reputation and cost implications of hiring mistakes Hiring for attitude and cultural fit is crucial
  • Investing in apprentices and junior staff can lead to long-term success

Chapters

  • 00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introduction
  • 09:22 The Mansion Project
  • 19:15 The Impact of Attitude on Construction Projects
  • 24:28 The Impact of Attitude on Business Hiring and Development
]]>409b1dda-0708-4482-bb93-622b342661b6Sun, 15 Feb 2026 21:52:50 GMT<p>The conversation delves into the challenges of bad hiring experiences and the limitations of resumes and references in the trades industry. It highlights the need for a more effective approach to hiring, such as the use of work portfolios and the <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="www.projektnetwork.com" target="_blank">Projekt Network</a> platform to showcase skills and experience. The conversation delves into the challenges of hiring the right people for construction projects, highlighting the reputation and cost implications of hiring mistakes. It also explores the criticality of oversight and trust in construction, emphasizing the importance of hiring and the potential consequences of oversight failures. The conversation delves into the critical role of attitude and cultural fit in hiring decisions, career development, and business success. It emphasizes the importance of investing in apprentices and junior staff, showcasing work and attitude, and the impact of attitude on business reputation and efficiency.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Bad hiring experiences</li><li>Challenges with resumes and references Importance of hiring the right people</li><li>Reputation and cost implications of hiring mistakes Hiring for attitude and cultural fit is crucial</li><li>Investing in apprentices and junior staff can lead to long-term success</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introduction</li><li>09:22 The Mansion Project</li><li>19:15 The Impact of Attitude on Construction Projects</li><li>24:28 The Impact of Attitude on Business Hiring and Development</li></ul>yes00:46:43Episode 10: Kyle Kelland on Recruitingfull<![CDATA[Episode 9: JobTable]]>The conversation covers the importance of financial systems and controls within a contracting firm, the need for business skills in addition to trade skills, and the challenges of cash flow management in the construction industry. It also delves into the complexities of accounting, tax management, and growth-oriented financial strategies. The conversation covers essential topics related to cash flow management, invoicing, progress payments, and legal protection for contractors. It also delves into the significance of expense audits and the use of software tools for efficient business management.

Takeaways

  • Financial literacy is essential for small business owners, especially in the construction industry.
  • The construction industry presents unique challenges for cash flow management and financial planning.
  • Understanding the complexities of accounting, tax management, and growth-oriented financial strategies is crucial for business success. Frugality and expense audits are crucial for effective cash flow management.
  • Sending invoices promptly and having good terms and conditions can help ensure timely payments.
  • Understanding lien rights and legal protection is vital for contractors.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Simplifying Business Management for Construction Companies
  • 06:01 Challenges of Business Skills in the Construction Industry
  • 13:06 Advanced Financial Strategies and Growth Orientation
  • 19:00 Financial Literacy and Business Goals
  • 25:17 Invoicing and Prompt Payments
  • 30:20 Legal Protection and Lien Rights
  • 37:20 Introduction to Job Table and Business Management
]]>2516ef57-cc97-4672-93c3-4cd7e8c8d821Mon, 02 Feb 2026 17:36:28 GMT<p>The conversation covers the importance of financial systems and controls within a contracting firm, the need for business skills in addition to trade skills, and the challenges of cash flow management in the construction industry. It also delves into the complexities of accounting, tax management, and growth-oriented financial strategies. The conversation covers essential topics related to cash flow management, invoicing, progress payments, and legal protection for contractors. It also delves into the significance of expense audits and the use of software tools for efficient business management.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Financial literacy is essential for small business owners, especially in the construction industry.</li><li>The construction industry presents unique challenges for cash flow management and financial planning.</li><li>Understanding the complexities of accounting, tax management, and growth-oriented financial strategies is crucial for business success. Frugality and expense audits are crucial for effective cash flow management.</li><li>Sending invoices promptly and having good terms and conditions can help ensure timely payments.</li><li>Understanding lien rights and legal protection is vital for contractors.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Simplifying Business Management for Construction Companies</li><li>06:01 Challenges of Business Skills in the Construction Industry</li><li>13:06 Advanced Financial Strategies and Growth Orientation</li><li>19:00 Financial Literacy and Business Goals</li><li>25:17 Invoicing and Prompt Payments</li><li>30:20 Legal Protection and Lien Rights</li><li>37:20 Introduction to Job Table and Business Management</li></ul>no00:40:11Episode 9: JobTablefull<![CDATA[Episode 8: Mike Holmes Jr.]]>https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In this episode of the Trade Life podcast, host Ian MaFayden sits down with Michael Holmes Jr. to discuss their shared experiences in the skilled trades, particularly carpentry. They delve into the importance of hands-on experience versus formal education, emphasizing that many young people feel pressured to choose a career path too early. Michael shares his journey from working with his father in construction to becoming a public speaker and television host, highlighting the value of exploring different trades before committing to one. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding trades, the evolving perception of skilled labor, and the opportunities available in the industry today.

The duo discusses the misconceptions about trades being a fallback option for those who aren't academically inclined, arguing instead that skilled trades can offer fulfilling and lucrative careers. They advocate for young people to try various jobs to discover their passions, emphasizing that the trades are not only viable but also essential in today's economy. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of pursuing what you love, regardless of societal expectations, and the potential for success in the trades.

Keywords

skilled trades, carpentry, apprenticeship, trades advocacy, career exploration, Michael Holmes Jr., Trade Life podcast, construction industry, hands-on experience, education

Takeaways

Explore different career paths before committing.

The stigma around trades is changing for the better.

Hands-on experience is invaluable in the trades.

Don't rush into a career decision at a young age.

Pursue what you love, regardless of societal expectations.

Titles

Breaking the Stigma: The Value of Skilled Trades

From Carpentry to Career: Exploring the Trades Journey

Sound bites

"Explore different career paths before committing."

"What's the purpose of anything that I'm doing?"

"Dumb kids do trades, smart kids get a degree."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:36 The Importance of Hands-On Experience

10:00 Changing Perceptions of Skilled Trades

20:00 Finding Your Passion in the Trades

29:52 The Future of Skilled Trades and Opportunities

40:05 The Red Seal and Its Relevance

]]>45f3a140-ca66-4f48-adc0-7f37708ffcfeTue, 20 Jan 2026 22:20:14 GMT<p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum" target="_blank">https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum</a></p><p></p><p>Summary</p><p>In this episode of the Trade Life podcast, host Ian MaFayden sits down with Michael Holmes Jr. to discuss their shared experiences in the skilled trades, particularly carpentry. They delve into the importance of hands-on experience versus formal education, emphasizing that many young people feel pressured to choose a career path too early. Michael shares his journey from working with his father in construction to becoming a public speaker and television host, highlighting the value of exploring different trades before committing to one. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding trades, the evolving perception of skilled labor, and the opportunities available in the industry today.</p><p>The duo discusses the misconceptions about trades being a fallback option for those who aren't academically inclined, arguing instead that skilled trades can offer fulfilling and lucrative careers. They advocate for young people to try various jobs to discover their passions, emphasizing that the trades are not only viable but also essential in today's economy. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of pursuing what you love, regardless of societal expectations, and the potential for success in the trades.</p><p>Keywords</p><p>skilled trades, carpentry, apprenticeship, trades advocacy, career exploration, Michael Holmes Jr., Trade Life podcast, construction industry, hands-on experience, education</p><p>Takeaways</p><p>Explore different career paths before committing.</p><p>The stigma around trades is changing for the better.</p><p>Hands-on experience is invaluable in the trades.</p><p>Don't rush into a career decision at a young age.</p><p>Pursue what you love, regardless of societal expectations.</p><p>Titles</p><p>Breaking the Stigma: The Value of Skilled Trades</p><p>From Carpentry to Career: Exploring the Trades Journey</p><p>Sound bites</p><p>"Explore different career paths before committing."</p><p>"What's the purpose of anything that I'm doing?"</p><p>"Dumb kids do trades, smart kids get a degree."</p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction and Background</p><p>03:36 The Importance of Hands-On Experience</p><p>10:00 Changing Perceptions of Skilled Trades</p><p>20:00 Finding Your Passion in the Trades</p><p>29:52 The Future of Skilled Trades and Opportunities</p><p>40:05 The Red Seal and Its Relevance</p><p></p>no00:47:068Episode 8: Mike Holmes Jr.full<![CDATA[Episode 7: Toolaholic]]>Keywords

apprentices, tools, battery technology, cordless tools, ergonomics, skilled trades, tool brands, Project Network, construction, tool reviews

Summary

In this episode of the Trade Life podcast, Ian MacFayden and Kiefer Lineback discuss the challenges faced by apprentices in the skilled trades, particularly in relation to technology and tools. They explore how apprentices can navigate the vast array of tool brands, emphasizing the importance of understanding battery technology and ergonomics in tool selection. The conversation also touches on the evolution of cordless tools and the future of tool technology, with a focus on comfort and usability for long-term work. Kiefer shares insights from his extensive experience in the field, providing valuable advice for both new and seasoned tradespeople.

Takeaways

Apprentices in skilled trades face a technology gap.

Choosing the right tool brand depends on your specific trade.

Battery technology is crucial for tool performance.

Cordless tools have evolved significantly in recent years.

Ergonomics and comfort are key in tool selection.

Investing in quality tools can enhance long-term usability.

Understanding battery management systems can prevent premature failures.

The ecosystem of tools matters when selecting a brand.

Comfort details in tools can prevent fatigue during long work hours.

Future discussions will include tool storage and vehicle setups.

Titles

Empowering Apprentices in the Skilled Trades

Navigating the World of Tools for New Apprentices

Sound bites

"Everyone's got a solid battery."

"The ergonomics is a big deal."

"Comfort is everything in tool selection."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

10:51 Navigating Tool Brands for Apprentices

18:06 Understanding Battery Technology in Tools

26:52 The Evolution of Cordless Tools

34:40 Ergonomics and Comfort in Tool Selection

40:43 Future Topics and Conclusion

]]>01b610f0-0b15-4019-a5d5-82585523b371Mon, 05 Jan 2026 18:19:11 GMT<p>Keywords</p><p>apprentices, tools, battery technology, cordless tools, ergonomics, skilled trades, tool brands, Project Network, construction, tool reviews</p><p></p><p>Summary</p><p>In this episode of the Trade Life podcast, Ian MacFayden and Kiefer Lineback discuss the challenges faced by apprentices in the skilled trades, particularly in relation to technology and tools. They explore how apprentices can navigate the vast array of tool brands, emphasizing the importance of understanding battery technology and ergonomics in tool selection. The conversation also touches on the evolution of cordless tools and the future of tool technology, with a focus on comfort and usability for long-term work. Kiefer shares insights from his extensive experience in the field, providing valuable advice for both new and seasoned tradespeople.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><p>Apprentices in skilled trades face a technology gap.</p><p>Choosing the right tool brand depends on your specific trade.</p><p>Battery technology is crucial for tool performance.</p><p>Cordless tools have evolved significantly in recent years.</p><p>Ergonomics and comfort are key in tool selection.</p><p>Investing in quality tools can enhance long-term usability.</p><p>Understanding battery management systems can prevent premature failures.</p><p>The ecosystem of tools matters when selecting a brand.</p><p>Comfort details in tools can prevent fatigue during long work hours.</p><p>Future discussions will include tool storage and vehicle setups.</p><p></p><p>Titles</p><p>Empowering Apprentices in the Skilled Trades</p><p>Navigating the World of Tools for New Apprentices</p><p></p><p>Sound bites</p><p>"Everyone's got a solid battery."</p><p>"The ergonomics is a big deal."</p><p>"Comfort is everything in tool selection."</p><p></p><p>Chapters</p><p>00:00 Introduction and Background</p><p>10:51 Navigating Tool Brands for Apprentices</p><p>18:06 Understanding Battery Technology in Tools</p><p>26:52 The Evolution of Cordless Tools</p><p>34:40 Ergonomics and Comfort in Tool Selection</p><p>40:43 Future Topics and Conclusion</p><p></p>no00:42:26Episode 7: Toolaholicfull<![CDATA[Episode 6: Connor Malloy]]>The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in the skilled trades industry, focusing on the support for continuing education, the impact of reduced exposure to trades, and the challenges faced by post-secondary students. It also addresses the changing perception of trades, the challenges of gaining experience, and strategies for new entrants. Additionally, it discusses the challenges faced by trade schools and the need for industry support.

Takeaways

  • Support for continuing education is crucial for the skilled trades industry.
  • Reduced exposure to trades creates challenges for post-secondary students.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction and Background
  • 06:37 Impact of Reduced Exposure to Trades
  • 13:27 Advice for New Entrants
  • 23:27 Strategies for New Entrants
  • 33:41 Challenges Faced by Trade Schools
]]>c50663e6-0849-4188-a80f-9294d14585f9Mon, 22 Dec 2025 17:18:41 GMT<p>The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in the skilled trades industry, focusing on the support for continuing education, the impact of reduced exposure to trades, and the challenges faced by post-secondary students. It also addresses the changing perception of trades, the challenges of gaining experience, and strategies for new entrants. Additionally, it discusses the challenges faced by trade schools and the need for industry support.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Support for continuing education is crucial for the skilled trades industry.</li><li>Reduced exposure to trades creates challenges for post-secondary students.</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 Introduction and Background</li><li>06:37 Impact of Reduced Exposure to Trades</li><li>13:27 Advice for New Entrants</li><li>23:27 Strategies for New Entrants</li><li>33:41 Challenges Faced by Trade Schools</li></ul>no00:39:486Episode 6: Connor Malloyfull<![CDATA[Episode 5: Kyle Kelland]]>On this episode of The Trade Life by Projekt Network host Ian MacFayden sits down with Kyle Kelland to talk about pathways into the trades and tips for apprentices. Listen as Ian and Kyle share stories from their pasts and recent experiences with hiring our new tradespeople.

Continue the conversation on www.projektnetwork.com

or in the app store https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/projekt-network/id6755127571

Also available in the Google Play Store

]]>a21fbaa9-e291-4cbb-9bc0-bb18afd2c689Sat, 13 Dec 2025 14:21:50 GMT<p>On this episode of The Trade Life by Projekt Network host Ian MacFayden sits down with Kyle Kelland to talk about pathways into the trades and tips for apprentices. Listen as Ian and Kyle share stories from their pasts and recent experiences with hiring our new tradespeople.</p><p></p><p>Continue the conversation on <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.projektnetwork.com" target="_blank">www.projektnetwork.com</a></p><p>or in the app store <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/projekt-network/id6755127571" target="_blank">https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/projekt-network/id6755127571</a></p><p>Also available in the Google Play Store</p>yes00:38:065Episode 5: Kyle Kellandfull<![CDATA[Johnny Hourihan]]>Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at:

https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Ian MacFayden and Johnny Hurahan explore the challenges and rewards of working in the trades. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the value of skilled labor, and the need for a community that supports and uplifts those in the industry. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology and the future of the trades, emphasizing the need for pride and education in this vital field.

]]>67dbb6bd-4c9d-401c-af6b-875185c11cc5Tue, 25 Nov 2025 17:15:11 GMT<p>Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at:</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum" target="_blank">https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum</a></p><p></p><p>Summary</p><p>In this engaging conversation, Ian MacFayden and Johnny Hurahan explore the challenges and rewards of working in the trades. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the value of skilled labor, and the need for a community that supports and uplifts those in the industry. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology and the future of the trades, emphasizing the need for pride and education in this vital field.</p><p></p>no00:43:53Johnny Hourihanfull<![CDATA[The Golden Years]]>Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at:

https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In this episode of The Trade Life, Ian MacFayden and Aaron Miller share their journey in the trades, discussing the challenges and successes of building Hummingbird Hill Homes and launching Project Network. They emphasize the importance of open conversations in the industry, the value of mentorship, and the need for a supportive community for tradespeople. The episode covers their personal backgrounds, early experiences, and the lessons learned along the way, highlighting the realities of entrepreneurship in the construction sector. In this conversation, Aaron and Ian discuss their journey in the construction industry, focusing on the challenges and lessons learned while building their company. They explore the importance of identifying differential advantages, establishing roles, navigating growth challenges, and the impact of COVID-19 on their business. The conversation also delves into hiring practices, financial management, and the significance of building a strong company culture. They share insights on overcoming legal hurdles and the pitfalls of offsite construction, emphasizing the need for effective contracts and the importance of perseverance during tough times. In this conversation, Aaron and Ian discuss their journey through the challenges of running a construction business, the importance of learning from difficult experiences, and the critical role of standard operating procedures. They emphasize the need for a strong team culture and the integration of technology in project management. The discussion also covers their expansion into the Muskoka region and the launch of Project Network, a platform aimed at connecting skilled tradespeople and fostering community within the industry. They highlight the growing opportunities in the skilled trades and the importance of proactive approaches to business.

]]>2b9cf8b1-6c95-4383-b467-fcdfd076b66bTue, 25 Nov 2025 17:12:32 GMT<p>Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at: </p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum" target="_blank">https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum</a></p><p></p><p>Summary</p><p>In this episode of The Trade Life, Ian MacFayden and Aaron Miller share their journey in the trades, discussing the challenges and successes of building Hummingbird Hill Homes and launching Project Network. They emphasize the importance of open conversations in the industry, the value of mentorship, and the need for a supportive community for tradespeople. The episode covers their personal backgrounds, early experiences, and the lessons learned along the way, highlighting the realities of entrepreneurship in the construction sector. In this conversation, Aaron and Ian discuss their journey in the construction industry, focusing on the challenges and lessons learned while building their company. They explore the importance of identifying differential advantages, establishing roles, navigating growth challenges, and the impact of COVID-19 on their business. The conversation also delves into hiring practices, financial management, and the significance of building a strong company culture. They share insights on overcoming legal hurdles and the pitfalls of offsite construction, emphasizing the need for effective contracts and the importance of perseverance during tough times. In this conversation, Aaron and Ian discuss their journey through the challenges of running a construction business, the importance of learning from difficult experiences, and the critical role of standard operating procedures. They emphasize the need for a strong team culture and the integration of technology in project management. The discussion also covers their expansion into the Muskoka region and the launch of Project Network, a platform aimed at connecting skilled tradespeople and fostering community within the industry. They highlight the growing opportunities in the skilled trades and the importance of proactive approaches to business.</p><p></p>no00:38:11The Golden Yearsfull<![CDATA[The sh*t years - Lessons learned in blood]]>Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at:

https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In this conversation, Ian MacFayden and Aaron discuss their journey in building a successful construction company, highlighting the importance of hiring the right talent, letting go of control, and navigating the challenges of growth. They share insights on project management, the impact of COVID-19, the struggles of offsite construction, and the lessons learned from legal disputes and financial hardships. The discussion emphasizes the significance of company culture, the necessity of sacrifice, and the resilience required to overcome adversity in business.

]]>7578b000-3df2-4b1a-a716-f2ccec9873cfTue, 25 Nov 2025 17:02:52 GMT<p>Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at:</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum" target="_blank">https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum</a></p><p></p><p>Summary</p><p>In this conversation, Ian MacFayden and Aaron discuss their journey in building a successful construction company, highlighting the importance of hiring the right talent, letting go of control, and navigating the challenges of growth. They share insights on project management, the impact of COVID-19, the struggles of offsite construction, and the lessons learned from legal disputes and financial hardships. The discussion emphasizes the significance of company culture, the necessity of sacrifice, and the resilience required to overcome adversity in business.</p><p></p>yes00:29:37The sh*t years - Lessons learned in bloodfull<![CDATA[How it all began]]>Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at: https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In the inaugural episode of The Trade Life podcast, Ian MacFayden and Aaron Miller share their journey in the trades, discussing the challenges and realities of starting and running a construction business. They emphasize the importance of open conversations, mentorship, and community within the trades, while also outlining future podcast topics that will delve deeper into various aspects of the industry. In this conversation, Ian MacFayden and Aaron discuss their journey in the construction and renovation industry, starting from their first house flip to building a successful company. They share insights on the challenges they faced, the importance of mentorship, the hustle of balancing work and renovation, and the lessons learned from mistakes. They emphasize the significance of building a strong team, financial management, and differentiating themselves in the market through building science and green practices.

]]>c8a0fcf7-dbc8-4959-b0f9-55833b484590Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:56:37 GMT<p>Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at: <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum" target="_blank">https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum</a></p><p></p><p>Summary</p><p>In the inaugural episode of The Trade Life podcast, Ian MacFayden and Aaron Miller share their journey in the trades, discussing the challenges and realities of starting and running a construction business. They emphasize the importance of open conversations, mentorship, and community within the trades, while also outlining future podcast topics that will delve deeper into various aspects of the industry. In this conversation, Ian MacFayden and Aaron discuss their journey in the construction and renovation industry, starting from their first house flip to building a successful company. They share insights on the challenges they faced, the importance of mentorship, the hustle of balancing work and renovation, and the lessons learned from mistakes. They emphasize the significance of building a strong team, financial management, and differentiating themselves in the market through building science and green practices.</p><p></p>yes00:52:491How it all beganfull