Taylor Talks Trades

In this episode Jamie sits down with Shaun Dunn from SD Plumbing and Heating to talk about the real journey of starting and growing a trade business.Shaun opens up about the early days of starting his company and the sacrifices that came with it including how pursuing his business dream strained the relationship with his dad. Like many business owners in the trades the road was not smooth.There were tough moments hard lessons and times where the pressure of running a business felt overwhelming. But Shaun did not quit. He talks about the key turning points that helped him push through the difficult stages and the mindset shifts that helped him grow and how he eventually built SD Plumbing and Heating into a 7 figure business which is still growing.This episode dives into the reality of entrepreneurship in the trades. The struggles, the risks, the personal sacrifices and the moments that shape you into the business owner you become. If you are running a trade business thinking about starting one or currently in the tough early stages this conversation will resonate with you. In this episode we discuss• Starting a business and the personal sacrifices that come with it• The challenges of the early years in business• Lessons learned from mistakes and setbacks• The key moments that helped Shaun grow his company• What it really takes to build a 7 figure trades businessIf you enjoy the episode make sure to like comment and subscribe for more conversations with trade business owners sharing their real stories.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify andApple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

This is Part 2 of Cristian Montaño’s powerful story.In this episode, Livingston FC winger Cristian Montaño opens up about one of the most difficult periods of his life facing multiple court cases, the emotional toll it took, and what it felt like to have his career and reputation hanging in the balance.Cristian speaks honestly about the uncertainty, the pressure, and the fear during that time  and the relief of being proven not guilty in both cases.But even after clearing his name, the journey wasn’t over. He shares why he made the decision to return to Colombia to reconnect with himself and rediscover his love for football, playing for América de Cali and rebuilding both his confidence and identity.From there, Cristian talks about moving back to the UK with a new mindset learning to open up about mental health, speak about his experiences, and use his story to help others who may be struggling in silence. Now back playing for Livingston FC,he reflects on: • How adversity reshaped his mindset• The importance of resilience and self-belief• What football means to him today• And how he defines success nowThis episode is about redemption, growth, mental strength, and becoming stronger through the toughest chapters of life.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

In Part 1 of this powerful conversation, Livingston FC player Cristian Montaño shares the early chapters of a life that took him from the streets of Colombia to professional football in the UK.Cristian opens up about growing up surrounded by gang and drug culture, what it was like being exposed to danger at such a young age, and how moving to the UK at 11 years old changed everything. He talks about falling in love with football, being spotted for his talent, and earning a move to West Ham where the dream of becoming a professional became reality. But the journey was far from straightforward. Cristian reflects on the pressure that came with success, how quickly things can change in football, and what it felt like to see everything he had worked for begin to slip away. This episode is about ambition, identity, resilience, and the lessons learned when life takes an unexpected turn.Part 1 tells the story of the rise and fallPart 2 Shows the rebuildLike, comment, and subscribe to follow the full journey in the next episode.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

In this episode, we sit down with Gavin Gray from LCL Landscaping and Gardening to talk honestly about the realities of growing a trades business.Gavin opens up about the challenges he has faced trying to scale his business to three vans and multiple teams, and why it has never quite worked out the way he expected. From struggling to find the right people, to not having the management structure in place, Gavin shares the pressures that come with growth and the frustration of feeling stuck between staying small and trying to expand.Jamie offers real world advice on how to grow a business sustainably, focusing on building the right foundations, believing in yourself, and making the jump when the time is right. The conversation explores what sustainable growth really looks like, why not every business needs to scale quickly, and how mindset plays a huge role in long term success.This episode is for anyone in the trades who feels the pressure to grow, but wants to do it the right way. Like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations from the world of trades and business.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstrades Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5L Apple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

In this episode, we sit down with Chris McLaughlin to hear the real story behind his journey from working as a greenskeeper around the world to building his own landscaping business. Chris talks about how his early career took him across different countries and helped shape his work ethic, mindset, and love for the industry. He shares what it was really like starting out, learning on the job, and finding his path through hands on experience.The conversation also dives into the realities of growing a business.Chris opens up about the struggles that come with scaling, the pressure behind the scenes, and why being busy does not always mean being profitable.He speaks honestly about how people often support you in the early days, but as you grow, that attention fades and you are left to push forward on your own.This episode is about growth, resilience, and understanding what success really looks like when you are building something from the ground up. Whether you are in the trades, running a business, or thinking about starting your own journey, Chris’s story offers real insight into the highs and the hard truths.Like comment and subscribe for more real conversations from the world of trades and business. Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

Trades Business Owner Living With Kidney Disease and How He Makes it Work 🤔In this episode, we sit down with Graeme from RGM Heating to hear a powerful and honest story about building a trades business with purpose.Graeme talks about how he started RGM Heating and why he chose to build the company differently from most trade businesses. He shares the mindset behind doing things his own way, the challenges that come with it, and the positives of creating a business that aligns with his values.He also opens up about living with kidney disease while running a business and how it has shaped his outlook on life, work, and what truly matters. Graeme speaks candidly about resilience, perspective, and continuing to push forward despite personal challenges. A key part of the conversation focuses on why Graeme started the Community Heating Project. He explains how the project supports people facing fuel poverty and why giving back became such an important part of his journey. This episode is about business, health, purpose, and using your platform to help others.Whether you are in the trades, running a business, or looking for real perspective, Graeme’s story is one you will want to hear.Like comment and subscribe for more real conversations from the world of trades and business. Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5L Apple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Innis from Tartan Timber and the Tartan Talks networking events to hear an honest and powerful story about choosing more from life.Mark opens up about working in a job where he could see his future laid out in front of him and knowing deep down that it was not the life he wanted.That moment pushed him to take a risk and start Tartan Timber, where he facing the real struggles of building a business from the ground up.He also shares one of the most intense experiences of his life, taking part in the MBS race, a brutal 250km ultra marathon through the Sahara Desert. Mark talks candidly about how the race nearly broke him, how he came close to losing his life, and how the support of his family gave him the strength to keep going and finish what he started.This conversation is about risk, resilience, mindset, and finding purpose when comfort is no longer enough. If you are building a business, questioning your path, or looking for real motivation, this episode will stay with you.Like, comment, and subscribe for more real conversations with people who have pushed themselves beyond their limits.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

"We NEED to do 6 days a week" Charlie Mullins Episode 100The man the myth the entrepreneur returns to the podcast for a third time and this one is special To celebrate our 100th episode we sit down again with the legendary founder of Pimlico Plumbers now leading the charge with his latest company WeFix 💪Charlie gives us an honest no nonsense update on year one of WeFix how he is building another powerhouse in the trades and what sets the business apart from the rest But he does not stop there Charlie shares his bold thoughts on what is holding the UK back right now from politics to work ethic to government decision making and what needs to change to get the country moving again 🇬🇧🔥This episode is packed with straight talking insights business lessons and the classic Charlie Mullins energy we all know and love 🎧 Tune in for • How WeFix is growing and what makes it different • The real issues facing the UK today • Charlie’s unfiltered take on what the government should do next • Advice for entrepreneurs and the future of the trades👉 Watch to the end you do not want to miss a minute 👍 Like Comment and Subscribe to support the show Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

The Inside Story of Running a Premiership ClubIn this episode, we sit down with Dave Black, Chief Operating Officer of Livingston FC, to uncover the real story behind running a top level football club.Dave shares his journey from joining the club to eventually helping lead it back into the Scottish Premiership.He gives a rare behind the scenes look at what it truly takes to operate a professional football organisation including the challenges, the pressure, the decision making, and the day to day work that fans never get to see.Dave also opens up about the club’s relegation and how he made it his mission to bring Livingston FC back to the top flight and how he and the team achieved exactly that.If you’re passionate about football, leadership, or the business behind the game, this is an episode you will not want to miss.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

The Truth About the Trades No One Talks About | Episode 98 Jimmy HendryIn this episode, we sit down with Jimmy Hendry, a tradesman unafraid to speak his mind about the issues too many people stay silent on.From unregistered gas fitters to workers showing up intoxicated, Jimmy opens up about the real challenges facing the industry today.He also shares his own experiences trying to raise these concerns and how difficult it can be when people don’t want to face the truth. This is an honest, raw, and much-needed conversation about integrity, accountability, and the standards that keep our trade professional.If you care about the future of the trades or want to hear what really goes on behind the scenes, this one’s worth watching. 🎧 Tune in now for a real conversation about the side of the trade no one talks about.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more honest discussions from the world of trades and business.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM #taylortalkstrades #taylorroofs #podcast #roofing #construction #trades #industry #scotland

In this episode, we sit down with John Chan, owner of The Durable Slate Company known as the Rolls Royce of roofing across America. 🇺🇸John shares his incredible journey and the story behind building one of the most respected names in roofing. From restoring presidential homes and historic churches to taking on one-of-a-kind projects across the country,The Durable Slate Company has set the standard for craftsmanship, heritage, and trust in the roofing industry.He also talks about what makes a “Durable project” so special and how even competitors tell customers to go to Durable because they know the team can handle it. 💪 If you’re passionate about roofing, craftsmanship, or building a business with a legacy, this episode is a must-watch.🎧 Listen now and get inspired by one of the best in the game.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real stories from the world of trades and business.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5L Apple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

From Roofer to Heritage Expert | Episode 96 Chris Menzies   in this episode, we sit down with Chris Menzies from Stirling City Heritage Trust to hear his fascinating journey from working on roofs with his dad to becoming a key figure in Scotland’s heritage sector.Chris shares how his career path took him from hands-on roofing to teaching the trade, and how his curiosity about the history and hidden details behind old buildings inspired him to dive deeper into heritage work.His story shows just how much more there is to preserving our buildings than meets the eye and why this work matters for future generations.If you’re passionate about trades, history, or learning how craftsmanship meets heritage, this episode is full of insights and inspiration.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real stories from the trades and beyond! Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstrades Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

From Nothing to Bespoke Landscaping | Episode 95 Marc OllerenshawIn this episode, we sit down with Marc Ollerenshaw, founder of Bespoke Landscaping, to hear his inspiring journey from starting with nothing to building a thriving landscaping business.Marc shares:🌿 How he got started in the trade with limited resources💡 The challenges of growing a business from the ground up🏡 How Bespoke Landscaping is now expanding and taking on more high-end clients and projects🚀 Lessons for anyone looking to scale their businessWhether you’re in landscaping, the trades, or just love a story of grit and growth, Marc’s journey is packed with insights and inspiration.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real stories from the world of trades and business!Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Marshall, founder of Essence Roofing and Trade Wizard, to hear his incredible journey from starting out in the trades to building a multi-million pound roofing business.Ryan opens up about:🔨 How he got started in roofing💼 The challenges of starting and scaling Essence Roofing🚀 Growing into a multi-million pound company🤝 Why he launched Trade Wizard to help other trade business owners succeedThis conversation is full of lessons for anyone in the trades — whether you’re just starting out, running your own company, or looking for inspiration to take things to the next level.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real stories from the trades world!Tradesman To Multi-Million Pound Business | Episode 94 Ryan MarshallTikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@ryan1marshalllinkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-marshall-3b0243138/Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple PodcastsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM#taylortalkstrades #taylorroofs #podcast #roofing #construction #trades #industry #scotland

In this episode, Jamie sits down with Aidan Woodbridge of Woodsgarden Developments. From grafting in lockdown to saying “I want to build my own empire,” Aidan shares his journey into landscaping while Jamie offers advice on growing a trade business.

Empowering Women in the Construction IndustryIn this episode, we sit down with Pamela to talk about the unique challenges and opportunities women face in the construction industry. Pamela shares her experience working alongside her husband in their family business and the vital role she plays in its success.From breaking stereotypes to balancing leadership and family, this conversation sheds light on what it really means to be a woman in construction today.Whether you’re in the trades, thinking about joining, or just interested in inspiring stories, Pamela’s insights will motivate and inform.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real stories from the world of construction!Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5L Apple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

In this episode, Jamie sits down with Samuel Moore of Samuel Moore Roofing to talk about what it really takes to build a roofing business from the ground up.From early labouring days to managing apprentices, Samuel shares stories of hands-on learning, working-class values, and the weight of responsibility as a leader.They cover everything from how neurodivergent people thrive in trades, to how roofing apprenticeships truly work, to the pressure of making sure your team stays safe.This one’s for the grafters, learners, and leaders-in-the-making. 🏠

In today’s episode, we sit down with John Horne, founder of JR Group, who shares his incredible journey — from Growing up in Govan to making his debut on the football pitch to building one of Scotland’s biggest scaffolding and construction companies.John opens up about how he went from a young footballer to launching JR Scaffolding Services, which is now celebrating its 30th anniversary and a turnover of £30 million.He also talks us through the highs, the lows, and the moments that shaped the company’s success — from father figures and mentors to business lessons learned the hard way.If you’re an aspiring business owner, work in the trades, or just love a real success story packed with grit and heart, this one’s for you.👉 Hit subscribe for more inspiring stories from people building great businesses from the ground up. ✨ Drop a comment if John’s story motivates you to keep pushing forward!Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstradesLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-tradesTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM

In this episode, Jamie sits down with Ross Cunningham — founder of ROSSCO Tiling Specialists — to talk about building a business known for precision, pride, and purpose.From restoring Victorian porches to tiling restaurants and homes, Ross shares his journey from qualified tradesman to running a business with real standards.They cover why it’s so hard to get off the tools, the struggle of hiring tilers, and how trade opportunities should be for everyone, not just the underprivileged.It’s a raw, honest chat on craftsmanship, business, and why hard work still matters.👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more real talk from the heart of the trades.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstrade Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-trades TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM#taylortalkstrades #taylorroofs #podcast #roofing #construction #trades #industry #scotland

In this episode, Jamie sits down with Alex Durham, founder of Smartwood Flooring Scotland — a business built on decades of grit, craftsmanship, and a passion for perfect floors. 🪵✨ Alex opens up about starting out as a labourer in his parents’ business, gaining elite training in Germany, and building a family-run brand that champions quality over shortcuts.We dive into why he believes flooring deserves recognition as a trade in its own right, how rejecting the 9-to-5 sparked his entrepreneurial journey, and the mindset it takes to turn a skill into a lasting legacy.It’s one for the grafters, the makers, and anyone dreaming of building something of their own. 💪 👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more real talk from the heart of the trades.Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylortalkstrade Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/taylor-talks-trades TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@taylortalkstradesSpotify 👉 https://spoti.fi/3ZMHf5LApple Podcasts 👉 https://apple.co/3Lri8RM#taylortalkstrades #taylorroofs #podcast #roofing #construction #trades #industry #scotland