The Skilled Trade Rescue Podcast

How to Prepare Your Skilled-Trade Business for Sale: Clean Books, Valuation Tips & Exit Planning with Jordan Gentry

If you’re an HVAC, electrical, plumbing, construction, or welding business owner thinking about selling your company someday, this episode is a must-watch. In this VLOG, Martin talks with Jordan Gentry of Iron Oak Accounting about how skilled-trade contractors can maximize business value, clean up their books, strengthen profitability, and prepare for a smooth business exit—years before they plan to retire. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to prepare a skilled-trade business for sale and what buyers look for Why clean bookkeeping and accurate QuickBooks data can increase valuation Common financial mistakes contractors make with Section 179 and asset purchases Succession planning strategies for owners who want a key employee to take over How to build a tax-efficient 401(k) and benefits package to retain top trade talent The real reason most contractors struggle with bookkeeping, taxes, and financial planning When to consider buying your building vs. continuing to lease Why consolidators are acquiring HVAC, electrical, and construction companies—and what it means for you Jordan also breaks down how a “one-stop-shop” accounting firm supports trade businesses from startup to exit, including tax planning, wealth management, and long-term retirement planning for owners. Whether you're growing your contracting business, improving your books, or planning your eventual exit, this episode gives you the practical, real-world financial guidance every trade business owner needs.

Financial Habits Tradespeople Need to Start Using RIGHT NOW

In this episode of the Skilled Trade Rescue Podcast, host Martin King sits down with Kevin Carney, owner of Pier One Insurance Group and veteran financial advisor. Together, they unpack practical money strategies that every skilled trade professional should know. From maximizing your 401(k) and IRA to building a six-month emergency fund, Kevin explains the real-world habits that separate financial stress from financial freedom. You’ll also learn about disability insurance, budgeting, and how to protect your income if the unexpected happens. Whether you’re a new apprentice or a seasoned trades business owner, this episode delivers actionable tools to take control of your money and your future. Timestamps: 0:00 – Introduction to Kevin Carney 2:00 – The missing piece: financial training in the trades 3:00 – Where to start: 401(k), IRA, and annuities 5:00 – Budgeting and paying yourself first 7:00 – Disability insurance: why it matters 12:00 – Dollar-cost averaging explained 15:00 – The “Bucket Approach” to saving and investing 18:00 – Managing emotions when markets drop 20:00 – 401(k)s and ACA subsidies for self-employed tradespeople 23:00 – Roth vs. Traditional IRA—Kevin’s take 25:00 – Why every small business owner needs a CPA 27:00 – Kevin’s business, licensing, and how to reach him 🎧 Listen to more episodes and join the Skilled Trade Rescue community at: 👉 https://skilledtraderescue.com #SkilledTrade #FinancialFreedom #MoneyMindset #TradesPeople #401k #Budgeting #FinancialLiteracy #MoneyMuscle #SkilledTradeRescue

Money Mistakes KILLING Skilled Trade Professionals’ Finances

🎙 PODCAST SHOW NOTES Guest: Dan Capote — Financial Advisor | 30 Years Experience | Holistic Planner Host: Martin King – Founder, Skilled Trade Rescue Episode Summary: Dan Capote reveals the real-world money habits separating financially free tradespeople from those trapped in the paycheck-to-paycheck grind. From budgeting basics to buy/sell agreements, this conversation shows how to future-proof your trade career — even if you’ve never taken a finance class. Key Topics: Income protection for hands-on professions Emergency funds & cyclical income planning Smart spending vs “toy rich, cash poor” mentality Creative benefits strategies for small employers Navigating health insurance subsidy changes Building your financial dream team (CPA + advisor + attorney) Quotes to Highlight: “If you’re a tradesperson, you’re the ATM. If you get hurt, the money stops.” – Dan Capote “Stop trying to look successful — start building success.” – Martin King Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro & Dan’s background 02:00 – The real risks of working without disability coverage 05:00 – Budgeting & emergency funds for cyclical income 09:00 – Why financial education is missing in the trades 12:00 – How benefits help you keep good employees 16:00 – Upcoming healthcare subsidy shifts every contractor must know 19:00 – Why you need a financial team — not just a bookkeeper 22:00 – Smart protection moves for young business owners 25:00 – Buy/Sell agreements & planning for the unexpected 27:00 – Final advice for tradespeople ready to level up Join the Skilled Trade Rescue community for free financial tools, expert mentors, and career-growth resources → [SkilledTradeRescue.com]

Building Impact: How Leadership and Heart Are Rewriting the Skilled Trades Playbook

🧭 Show Notes: Guest: Jeremy Melton, CEO & Founder of Impact Service Group Host: Martin P. King, Founder of Skilled Trade Rescue In this powerful episode, Martin sits down with HVAC veteran and visionary business owner Jeremy Melton to explore how leadership, humility, and purpose can transform the skilled trades industry from the inside out. Jeremy shares his 20+ year journey from plumber and welder to CEO—detailing how his father’s passing ignited his mission to “make an impact” and build a company where people come first. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities facing today’s contractors: How to attract and retain top talent in a tight labor market Why leadership and personal connection matter more than money The real story behind startup struggles—cash flow, growth, and faith How to mentor the next generation of technicians beyond technical skills Why focusing on people before profit can build unstoppable companies If you’re a skilled trade professional, business owner, or aspiring leader, this conversation will hit home. It’s a raw, honest look at what it takes to build something meaningful—and how doing the right thing always pays dividends. 🎧 Listen now and discover how to create real impact through leadership, culture, and purpose in the trades.

From Broke to Building Wealth: Financial Lessons w/ Rick Biel

Are you making good money in the trades but still feeling broke? You’re not alone. In this episode, I sit down with financial advisor Rick Biel, who grew up with nothing, worked construction, and learned the hard way how to build wealth. Rick now helps everyday people—including skilled trade professionals—create financial stability, escape debt, and start building long-term net worth. We cover: ✅ Why so many in the trades earn six figures yet struggle with money ✅ The role of financial education (and what schools don’t teach) ✅ How to get out of debt and start investing (even with just $50/month) ✅ The truth about Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, and building a retirement fund ✅ Why an emergency fund is your first line of defense ✅ Common money traps that sabotage skilled workers—and how to avoid them If you’re serious about turning your trade skills into lasting wealth and security, this conversation is a must-listen.