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The Trade Talks

Author: Roger Wakefield

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With over 1.25 million subscribers, 42 year plumbing veteran Roger Wakefield discusses life in the skilled trades with blue collar industry veterans.
260 Episodes
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19yo Plumber vs. World

19yo Plumber vs. World

2025-12-1345:47

Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! In this episode of THE TRADE, Roger Wakefield sits down with Charles Goede, a third-year plumbing apprentice from Local 777 in Connecticut who is about to represent the United States in WorldSkills — in Shanghai, China. From discovering the trades in high school to working on massive projects like hospitals, laboratories, Yale University facilities, and even an indoor water park, Charles shares the journey that led him from a classroom shop rotation… all the way to the international plumbing arena. In this conversation:  🔧 How trade school set him up for success 🔧 Why plumbing "just clicked" 🔧 Getting real-world experience through work-based learning at 16 🔧 His first plumbing jobs — boilers, gas lines, hydronics & more 🔧 What it's like working for a major mechanical contractor 🔧 Preparing to compete against the best plumbers in the world 🔧 Learning basic Mandarin & Cantonese for Shanghai 🔧 What the union has meant for his apprenticeship Whether you're a tradesperson, an apprentice, a contractor, or someone thinking about a career in the skilled trades, this episode shows how far the trades can take you — even across the globe. 👷 Guest: Charles Goede — Apprentice, UA Local 777 (Connecticut), Team USA Competitor, WorldSkills Plumbing 🎙 Host: Roger Wakefield — The Trade 👍 If you believe in the trades, hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and share this episode! #TheTrade #RogerWakefield #Plumbing #Tradesmen #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeship #WorldSkills #UnionStrong #BlueCollarProud #Local777  
OSHA Just Cracked Down

OSHA Just Cracked Down

2025-12-1159:18

Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! https://www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit https://www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577 Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! https://www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit https://www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577 Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! https://www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit https://www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577 Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! https://www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit https://www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577 Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! https://www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit https://www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577 Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! https://www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit https://www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577 Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! https://www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit https://www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577 Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! https://www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit https://www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577 Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
In this special live episode of The Trade Talks, Roger Wakefield sits down with the newly elected Jason Pritchard of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (PHCC) to discuss the future of the trades, leadership in the industry, and what's next for contractors nationwide. Shot on location in Grand Rapids, Michigan at the annual PHCC CONNECT 2025 conference, this conversation dives into the power of community, innovation in the trades, and how organizations like the PHCC are shaping the next generation of professionals. Whether you're a plumber, HVAC tech, apprentice, or business owner, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration straight from the top of the trade. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon so you never miss an episode of The Trade Talks! #TheTradeTalks #RogerWakefield #PHCCConnect2025 #PlumbingLife #TradesTalk #PHCC #GrandRapids #SkilledTrades #HVAC #PlumbingCommunity  
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
Welcome to The Trade Talks Live, where we celebrate the blue-collar trades and everything they stand for! Join us every weekday from 10-11 AM as we dive into national news, review trade websites, and share tips on mindset growth to help you succeed. Don't miss this hour of insights, inspiration, and practical advice! A big thank you to Leak-Pro for sponsoring this episode of The Trade Talks Live! Register for my FREE webinar! www.justmetroger.com LeakPro provides state-of-the-art leak detection solutions specifically designed for plumbers, helping professionals pinpoint hidden leaks with accuracy and efficiency. By utilizing advanced acoustic technology and digital sensors, LeakPro allows plumbers to reduce unnecessary damage, saving time and money on every job. LeakPro's tools are essential for detecting slab leaks, pipe leaks, and irrigation system failures without invasive measures. Whether working in residential or commercial plumbing, LeakPro offers cutting-edge solutions that enhance service quality. For more information, visit www.leak-pro.com or call 1-888-853-2577. Tradesmen built America. This is the "Blue Collar Channel"... Where you can listen to the top tradespeople around the world. Everything you need to learn about getting into the trades, becoming the best tradesman, starting your own business, and using networking and social media... To GROW in the trades!!!
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