The Plumbing and Mechanical Podcasts

And So It Flows: How AI and Gen Z Are Transforming the Trades

In this episode of And So It Flows, Kristen sits down with Roland Ligtenberg, co-founder of Housecall Pro, to explore how technology, AI and shifting workforce dynamics are reshaping the skilled trades. Roland shares insights on the growing appeal of trade careers —especially among Gen Z! — as economic uncertainty and automation reshape traditional white-collar paths.

And So It Flows: Guide, Don't Sell

Upselling is often seen as a bad word in this business, and even the antithesis of why many people joined the trades. Editor Kristen Bayles spoke with Blake Turner, master trainer at Nexstar, to discuss the misconceptions surrounding "upselling," and how through a few simple steps — focusing on communication, presenting options, and helping customers make informed decisions — contractors can improve both the customer experience and their business outcomes, without ever feeling like a salesperson.

The cost of missed calls

As spring approaches, plumbing contractors across the country are preparing for one of their busiest seasons of the year. In this episode of And So It Flows, Kristen Bayles spoke with Jane Blanchard, head of brand and marketing at Service Forge, about a challenge many contractors underestimate: the true cost of missed calls.

Smart Water Heating Upgrades for America’s Homes

LG Director of Heating Sales Renae’ Turnbaugh outlines how high-efficiency water heating solutions provide an effective means to upgrade today’s homes. She clarifies misconceptions about high-efficiency water heating and explores benefits beyond water savings including smart home integration, aesthetics and user-friendly technology. Sponsored by:

Speed, assortment and the art of saying yes: Behind SupplyHouse.com's merchandising and fulfillment engine

In this episode of And So It Flows, Jennifer Harrison, vice president of merchandising, and Kaytee Gray, vice president of fulfillment operations at SupplyHouse.com, offer a behind-the-scenes look at how digital merchandising and fulfillment strategies are evolving to meet the needs of today’s contractors. Harrison explains how online merchandising removes friction for pros in the field by putting expert-level product information directly at their fingertips. By leveraging customer search behavior, curated product data, and simplified navigation, SupplyHouse.com helps tradespeople quickly identify the right products without becoming overwhelmed — reducing “analysis paralysis” and supporting confident, on-the-job decision-making.