Podcast
Trades Unfiltered
Hosted by Ethan Tripodi · EN
From Field Work To Freedom — Stories Of Sweat And Steel Behind Service Business Success
You’ve Mastered Your Trade, But Now You’re Building A Business With A Story Nobody Knows
The trades are full of operators who can work hard and deliver quality—but building a business that scales without you on the tools takes more than know-how. Trades Unfiltered is here to highlight those who've made the leap and to unpack what actually got them there.
I'm Ethan Tripodi, and I've seen that real success comes from clarity, leadership, and ownership—not luck or marketing tricks. These conversations offer both inspiration and instruction—real stories, and the mindsets that helped them level up.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
TUF# 11 - How to Successfully Sell Your HVAC Business
2w ago00:48:08Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Patrick Lange shares his extensive experience in selling heating and cooling businesses, highlighting the importance of valuation, confidentiality, and strategic selling processes. Discover how to maximize your business's value and avoid common pitfalls in the exit process.
Transcribe →TUF #10 - The Power of Culture in Business Success
Jun 2500:47:06Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Trades Unfiltered, Ethan Tripodi speaks with Sean Reeves, Trades Manager at Apple Air, about his remarkable journey in the trades, the growth of the plumbing department at Apple Air, and the importance of company culture. Sean shares insights from his 27 years of experience, including his transition from working with his father in plumbing to leading a successful team at Apple Air. The conversation highlights the significance of hiring for culture, the impact of positive attitudes, and the power of word-of-mouth marketing in driving business success.
Transcribe →TUF #9 - Sales Secrets from a Young Prodigy
Jun 400:53:32Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Jason Melendez Jr., a successful HVAC sales technician who shares his journey from being a technician to becoming a top salesman. Jason discusses his early fascination with entrepreneurship, the importance of customer service, and the mindset shift he experienced as he navigated his career. He emphasizes the significance of genuinely caring for customers and how that approach has led to his success. The conversation also touches on the deeper purpose of life beyond money and the role of faith in finding fulfillment.
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TUF #8 - Corporate to Trades
Apr 200:42:21Tap to summarizeAlyssa reflects on her transition from a corporate career in marketing to the trades, emphasizing the learning curve she faced in leadership and team management. She discusses the significance of grassroots marketing and building relationships within the community, which have been crucial for their growth. As they aim for ambitious goals, Alyssa highlights the need for strategic hiring and the importance of surrounding themselves with the right people to achieve their vision. The conversation concludes with Alyssa offering encouragement to those facing challenges in their own business journeys, emphasizing resilience and consistency as key to success.
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TUF #7 - Marketing from a Roofer’s Perspective
Mar 1901:08:01Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Zach Bundt, a former roofer turned digital marketer. Zach shares his journey from working in the trades to running his own marketing firm, emphasizing the importance of digital marketing in the roofing industry. He discusses the challenges he faced, including being scammed by marketers and the lessons learned along the way. Zach also reflects on his personal growth, faith journey, and the significance of building a positive company culture. The conversation highlights the importance of continuous learning, humility, and the impact of personal development on business success.
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TUF#6 - Sales Tales from the Trades
Feb 2701:05:30Tap to summarizeIn this engaging conversation, Ethan Tripodi interviews Everett Lippel, a podcast host and sales coach, who shares his insights on the HVAC industry, the importance of human connection in sales, and the evolution of professionalism in trades. Everett emphasizes the need for personal development, authenticity, and building a positive company culture. He shares impactful stories from his podcast that highlight the emotional aspects of service calls and the lessons learned from various experiences in the field. The discussion also touches on navigating challenges in business and the significance of investing in people to foster success.
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TUF #5 - Sales, Success, Secrets for the Trades
Feb 2101:19:19Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Sam Wakefield, a seasoned sales expert in the trades and home service industry. They discuss the importance of personal growth, the transition from technician to sales, and the philosophy of permission-based selling. Sam shares insights on understanding customer psychology, the impact of world events on sales, and the significance of listening and empathy in building trust. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity and identity in sales, encouraging listeners to invest in themselves and their teams for long-term success.
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TUF #4 - Balancing Faith, Family, and HVAC (One Call Service Group)
Feb 1202:08:00Tap to summarizeUnlock the secret to building lasting generational wealth through faith, strategic business practices, and authentic relationships. Thomas Covington reveals how aligning your purpose with your work can transform your financial future and impact countless lives—including your own family’s—long after you're gone.In this powerful conversation, Thomas shares his journey from humble beginnings to managing a multi-state construction business, all while honoring his faith and family. You’ll discover how faith isn’t just a personal belief but a foundation for ethical leadership, resilience, and community service. Thomas’s story demonstrates how spiritual principles can guide asset stewardship, turning business into a tool for purpose-driven wealth that benefits future generations.We break down concrete strategies for entrepreneurs and tradespeople alike:How adopting a faith-centered approach shapes business decisions that lastPractical tips on building relationships with property managers and property ownersThe importance of clarity in financial planning, including setting up family trusts and leveraging IRAs for long-term wealthWhy intentional marketing and reputation-building are essential for scaling your business beyond local marketsThe value of mentoring and investing in your team’s education to foster loyalty and promote legacy wealthThis episode is perfect for tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and faith-driven leaders eager to create more than just short-term income—who want to build a legacy rooted in love, stewardship, and service. If you're feeling frustrated by traditional wealth-building paths or seeking to align your work with deeper purpose, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and act intentionally.Guest Thomas Covington is a seasoned builder, business owner, and faith advocate known for his innovative integration of faith and finance. His insights show how embracing stewardship, community generosity, and character-driven leadership can lead to both personal and financial transformation.Remember: Wealth isn’t just what you accumulate—it’s what you pass on. Hit play and start building a legacy that truly lasts.
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TUF #3 - The No. 1 Secret to Success in HVAC Sales (H.G. Horne)
Feb 501:18:29Tap to summarizeIn this conversation, Huck Horne shares his journey in the HVAC industry, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, understanding client needs, and maintaining core values. He discusses his transition from retail to HVAC, the significance of indoor air quality, and the impact of personal experiences on his career. Huck highlights the importance of educating clients, managing time effectively during service calls, and fostering a positive team environment. He also reflects on the client journey and the need for technicians to embody sincerity and genuine care in their work.
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TUF #2 - From Zero To Exit To Zero Again In HVAC (Rodeo Heating and Cooling)
Jan 1501:36:13Tap to summarizeTommy Satkowski shares his journey of building and exiting an HVAC business. He discusses the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, the importance of mindset shifts, and the hard realities of running a business. Tommy emphasizes the significance of hiring the right team, understanding profitability versus revenue, and the critical role of customer service. As he embarks on a new venture, he reflects on the lessons learned and the challenges ahead, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.
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