Load Bearing Opinions

Halloween Edition of LBO

🎃 Ghosts, Garage Doors & Bad Decisions | LBO Halloween Special 👻 We had a plan for our Halloween episode. We were going to talk about creepy jobsites, things that go bump in the night, and the real horrors of working in construction. And then we started talking. You know how that goes. This week on Load Bearing Opinions, CJ and Ryan get into haunted hospitals, mysterious moving equipment, and what it's like walking through an empty jobsite in the middle of the night. Somehow, we also end up discussing: 🔨 CJ climbing 12 feet down inside a wall to retrieve a beeper. 🔥 Ryan literally catching fire during a fireworks show. 👽 Lightning-struck cows, aliens, and moon landing conspiracies. 😱 Scary movies, childhood nightmares, and why grown men still run when they turn off the lights. 🚪 And Ryan's garage door, which apparently gets more exercise than most of us. Was it the Halloween episode we planned? Absolutely not. Did we have a good time? You bet your ass. It's construction stories, questionable decisions, a few legitimate scares, and the usual nonsense you've come to expect from us. Straight Talk. No Script. No Apologies. 🎙️ Watch, subscribe, and tell us: What's the creepiest thing you've ever experienced on a jobsite? ▶️ http://www.youtube.com/@LoadBearingOpinionsPodcast #LoadBearingOpinions #HalloweenSpecial #ConstructionLife #JobsiteStories #ConstructionPodcast #SkilledTrades #Halloween

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Are We Getting Them In… or Keeping Them? | Liz Manning — TradeBuilt USA

Are We Getting the Next Generation Into the Trades — or Just Through the Door? | Liz Manning 🎙️ This week on Load Bearing Opinions, we're joined by Liz Manning of TradeBuilt USA! Connect with Liz and her organizations: 🔗 TradeBuilt USA: https://www.tradebuiltusa.com/ 📱 TikTok: @TradeBuiltLiz 📸 Instagram/Facebook: @TradeBuiltUSA 🌐 Next Steps Webinars: https://www.nextstepswebinars.org/ 📸 Instagram: @next.steps.webinars Everybody in construction talks about needing more young people in the skilled trades. But what happens after we get them through the door? This week, CJ and Ryan sit down with Liz Manning to talk about workforce development, apprenticeships, career opportunities, and what the construction industry needs to do differently. Liz shares how she stumbled into construction from real estate, what inspired her to launch TradeBuilt, and why getting parents involved in career conversations might be one of the biggest missing pieces. We get into the college-versus-trades debate, the importance of training and mentorship, job hopping, and why a pizza party isn't going to convince somebody to stay with your company. And because this is Load Bearing Opinions, things eventually go sideways. We debate whether CJ or Ryan should be trusted in front of 500 high school students, whether everybody should know how to wire a ceiling fan, and which skilled trade Liz would choose for herself. We also tackle one of Liz's biggest frustrations: the idea that the next generation is somehow softer than everyone who came before them. It's a conversation about opportunity, responsibility, and making sure the next generation has more than just a job waiting for them. Also mentioned in this episode: Next Steps Webinars' December 8 event, from 12:00–1:30 p.m. Eastern, covering alternatives to a four-year college, including skilled trades, apprenticeships, technical colleges, and military pathways. Visit https://www.nextstepswebinars.org/ for details. 🎧 Load Bearing Opinions Straight talk. No script. No apologies. ▶️ http://www.youtube.com/@LoadBearingOpinionsPodcast 🌐 https://www.loadbearingopinions.com/ What's the biggest thing the construction industry needs to change to attract AND keep the next generation? #LoadBearingOpinions #TradeBuiltUSA #LizManning #SkilledTrades #ConstructionCareers #WorkforceDevelopment #Apprenticeships #BlueCollar #ConstructionLife

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Season 1 Episode 23

In this episode of the Low Bearing Opinions podcast, Ryan and CJ discuss the theme of comfort in various aspects of life, including personal experiences, technological advancements, and the construction industry. They explore whether society has become too comfortable and how innovation impacts our daily lives and work environments. In this conversation, Ryan and CJ explore the themes of struggle, mental health, work ethic, and the impact of technology on society. They discuss how comfort can lead to complacency and the importance of maintaining a balance between comfort and the necessity of struggle in life. Takeaways Comfort can hinder productivity Innovation must balance comfort and necessity Struggle is inherent to life Comfort can lead to complacency Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Weekly Updates 04:59 Exploring Comfort and Innovation 10:01 The Impact of Technology on Comfort 15:03 Comfort in the Construction Industry 19:56 Creature Comforts and Their Evolution 29:15 The Nature of Struggle 31:55 Mental Health and Generational Differences 39:39 The Impact of Comfort on Work Ethic 49:29 Technology and Problem Solving 54:50 The Future of Comfort and Struggle

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Season 1 Episode 22

In this episode, Ryan and CJ discuss the importance of speaking up in various situations, particularly in the workplace. They explore themes of safety, integrity, and personal anecdotes, emphasizing the need for open communication and accountability. The conversation explores various workplace scenarios, emphasizing the importance of accountability, communication, and the impact of reputation. From discussing lunch theft to addressing mistakes and innovative ideas, the hosts share insights on navigating professional relationships and maintaining integrity. In this conversation, CJ and Ryan explore the themes of responsibility, confrontation in the workplace, and the importance of evaluating when to speak up. They share humorous anecdotes and insights from their experiences, emphasizing the complexities of communication in professional settings. Takeaways Speak up for safety Integrity in teamwork Speak up about mistakes Karma affects reputation Responsibility comes with consequences Confrontation often leads to unproductive outcomes Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes 02:59 The Role of a Parent 05:56 Navigating Workplace Dynamics 08:56 Safety Culture and Speaking Up 12:01 Integrity in Team Discussions 15:01 Handling Lunch Theft at Work 21:33 Lunch Theft and Office Culture 22:27 Owning Up to Mistakes 24:52 Home Repairs and Accountability 29:03 Name Misidentification on Job Sites 31:43 Credit for Ideas in the Workplace 33:16 Addressing Personal Hygiene Issues 38:03 Innovative Approaches to Work 41:00 The Weight of Responsibility 43:56 Navigating Workplace Confrontation 50:52 Evaluating the Need to Speak Up 54:00 Humorous Workplace Scenarios

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Season 1 Episode 21

The podcast features a discussion with Jacob Parish, a field engineer, who shares insights into the construction industry and his career journey. The conversation covers topics such as the impact of COVID-19, training, mentorship, challenges, and generational perspectives in construction. The conversation delves into the impact of integrity, the influence of mentors, and the challenges faced in field engineering. It also explores career development, growth opportunities, and the transition to leadership roles. The discussion highlights the importance of honesty, the role of influential mentors, and the need to avoid complacency in career growth. Additionally, it features light-hearted moments and humorous anecdotes from the job site. The conversation covers various aspects of the construction industry, from the absurdities of job site norms to the importance of mentorship and patience. It also delves into rapid-fire debates and concludes with a teaser for the upcoming topic of 'Speaking Up at Work'. Takeaways Importance of mentorship and training in construction Generational differences and perspectives in the construction industry Integrity and honesty are crucial in field engineering Mentorship plays a significant role in career development Avoiding complacency is essential for career growth Job site norms can be absurd Patience and mentorship are crucial in the construction industry Chapters 00:00 Podcast Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:53 Understanding the Role of a Field Engineer 03:27 Career Journey in Construction 04:47 Impact of COVID-19 on Construction Work 06:18 Becoming a Field Engineer 07:58 Training and Mentorship in Construction 09:40 Networking and Collaboration in the Industry 11:11 Challenges and Mistakes in Construction 16:41 Generational Perspectives in Construction 24:19 The Impact of Integrity 26:08 Mentorship and Career Development 32:52 Growth and Opportunity in Field Engineering 37:32 Preparing for Leadership 43:26 Light-hearted Job Site Rules 45:22 The Ridiculous Norm 46:09 The Rollercoaster of Emotions 47:09 Unsafe Silence 48:24 The Joy of Setup 48:42 Rapid Fire Debates 54:21 Patience and Mentorship 58:30 Upcoming Topic: Speaking Up at Work

Season 1 Episode 20 Operation Time Machine

The podcast hosts engage in a lively discussion about time travel and the exploration of different historical eras. They delve into the concept of operation time machine and the excitement of going off the rails. The conversation transitions into a journey to the caveman era, followed by an exploration of the Bronze Age and the height of the gladiators in Rome. The hosts express their curiosity about the inventions, structures, and events of these historical periods, highlighting the significance of each era in human history. The conversation delves into various historical time periods, including Ancient Rome, the American Frontier, the Wild West Era, and the Roaring Twenties. Each period is explored in detail, highlighting the cultural, economic, and social aspects of the time. The hosts express their fascination with the unique characteristics of each era and discuss the impact of historical events on society. The conversation delves into nostalgia for the past, discussing the use of paddles in schools, the impact of the industrial age, the significance of the Vietnam War, and the role of music in rebellion during the 1970s. Takeaways Excitement of time travel and historical exploration Curiosity about ancient inventions and events Fascination with historical time periods Exploration of cultural and social aspects Impact of historical events on society Nostalgia for the past Impact of the Vietnam War Chapters 00:00 Off the Rails: Operation Time Machine 10:08 Journey to the Caveman Era 22:03 Exploring the Bronze Age 27:06 The Height of the Gladiators 28:49 Exploring Ancient Rome 36:30 The American Frontier 39:16 The Wild West Era 47:14 The Roaring Twenties 54:29 Nostalgia for the Past 55:25 The Industrial Age 01:07:07 The Impact of Vietnam War 01:09:11 Music and Rebellion in the 1970s

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Season 1 Episode 19

The podcast conversation covers various aspects of career decisions, including the timing to leave a job, company culture, loyalty, career development, impressionability, and petty reasons to quit. The hosts share personal experiences and insights related to these topics, providing valuable perspectives on navigating career choices and workplace challenges. The conversation covers workplace red flags, job satisfaction, challenges, safety, ethical concerns, respect for management, and an off-the-rails episode on time travel. Takeaways Career decisions have consequences Company culture impacts job satisfaction and loyalty Identifying workplace red flags Importance of passion and job satisfaction Recognizing the need for challenges and learning opportunities Prioritizing safety and ethical concerns Maintaining respect for management Exploring the concept of time travel in an off-the-rails episode Chapters 00:00 Setting the Stage 01:26 When is it Time to Leave a Job? 03:00 Company Culture and Decision Making 17:38 Loyalty and Career Development 22:48 Impressionability and Career Decisions 31:00 Petty Reasons to Quit 32:13 Workplace Red Flags 35:46 Passion and Job Satisfaction 38:32 Challenges and Learning Opportunities 38:40 Safety and Ethical Concerns 42:15 Respect for Management 57:50 Off the Rails: Time Machine Episode

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Season 1 Episode 18

The conversation covers the topics of remembering Dolly Parton, identifying and dealing with difficult people at work, the contagious nature of negative attitudes, and the distinction between holding someone accountable and being an asshole. The conversation delves into the topics of accountability at work, pride in one's work, self-reflection, and improvement. It also explores the idea of when it's time to leave a job. The speakers discuss the impact of accountability, the importance of taking pride in one's work, the value of self-reflection and improvement, and the considerations involved in deciding when to leave a job. Takeaways Dealing with difficult people in the workplace Learning from challenging experiences Accountability at work Pride in work Self-reflection and improvement Chapters 00:00 Remembering Dolly Parton 02:56 Identifying Assholes at Work 11:04 Dealing with Assholes 24:01 Assholes and Contagious Attitudes 27:58 Holding Accountable vs. Being an Asshole 28:52 Accountability and Work Ethic 35:09 Pride in Work 38:01 Self-Reflection and Improvement 53:41 Leaving a Job

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Season 1 Episode 17

The conversation explores the impact of the people we surround ourselves with, both in personal and professional settings. It delves into the influence of environment on mindset and behavior, the importance of challenging and supportive relationships, and the role of leadership in fostering a positive work culture. The conversation delves into the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences and the impact of personal relationships on growth and development. It also explores the need for self-reflection and the role of intentionality in choosing one's circle of influence. Takeaways Influence of Environment Challenging Relationships Leadership and Work Culture Positive influences are crucial for personal growth Self-reflection and intentionality are key in choosing one's circle of influence Chapters 00:00 The Power of Environment 08:05 Influence of Relationships 17:10 Leadership and Work Culture 25:39 The Impact of Disagreements and Personal Growth 26:16 Cutting Off Negative Influences 27:29 Apologizing and Moving On 28:40 The Role of Personal Relationships 31:11 Self-Reflection and Intentionality 33:02 The Importance of Personal Influence 34:07 Challenging and Encouraging Others 36:43 Reflection and Change 38:06 Influencing and Being Influenced 43:46 The Only Easy Day Was Yesterday 45:25 Open Casting Call and Giveaway

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Season 1 Episode 16

The conversation covers advice to an 18-year-old self, work ethic, learning opportunities, reputation, adaptability, financial responsibility, life lessons, self-care, and rapid fire questions about career, mistakes, and surprises. The hosts share personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of learning, financial responsibility, and self-care. Takeaways Work ethic and learning opportunities are crucial for personal and professional growth. Financial responsibility and investment are key for long-term financial security. Chapters 00:00 Advice to 18-Year-Old Self 02:00 Work Ethic and Learning Opportunities 06:23 Reputation and Adaptability 12:44 Financial Responsibility and Investment 25:35 Life Lessons and Self-Care 30:41 Rapid Fire Questions

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Season 1 Episode 15

The podcast begins with an introduction and discussion about being on the road in Atlanta. Aiden Otero's background and the topic of earning respect in the trades are then explored. The conversation delves into the definition of respect, the importance of consistency, and the role of trust and responsibility in earning respect. The conversation delves into the topic of earning respect in the trades, highlighting the importance of consistency, preparation, trustworthiness, and openness to feedback. It also explores the distinction between respect and popularity, emphasizing the need to avoid chasing popularity at the expense of respect. The episode concludes with an open casting call for tradespeople to share their stories and advice. Takeaways Consistency is key to earning respect in the trades. Trust and responsibility play a crucial role in building respect over time. Earning respect takes time and consistency. Respect and popularity are not synonymous. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:02 On the Road in Atlanta 02:32 Aiden Otero's Background 07:04 Defining Respect in the Trades 14:34 Earning Respect through Consistency 20:56 The Importance of Trust and Responsibility 21:49 Earning Respect in the Trades 25:09 Respect vs. Popularity 37:04 Open Casting Call for Tradespeople

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Season 1 Episode 14

Side Work... Worth It or Not? Almost every tradesperson has thought about picking up side work. Some do it for extra cash. Some do it to sharpen their skills. Others just enjoy building something that's their own. But is it really worth it? In this episode of Load Bearing Opinions, Ryan and CJ dive into the realities of side work—the good, the bad, and the lessons they learned the hard way. We cover: 💰 How to price your first jobs without losing money 📋 Why Time & Materials can save you from costly mistakes ⚠️ Permits, liability, insurance, and protecting yourself 🛠️ Using AI to help visualize projects for clients 👷 Should apprentices be doing side work? 👨‍👩‍👧 Working for friends and family... and whether you should charge them 🔨 Why your reputation is worth more than any paycheck 🤣 Plus, a few stories that prove construction guys probably shouldn't be trusted with lassos. Whether you're thinking about taking on your first weekend project or you've been running side jobs for years, this episode is packed with practical advice, a few laughs, and plenty of opinions. 🎥 Watch the full episode and join the conversation: http://www.youtube.com/@LoadBearingOpinionsPodcast 💬 Question for the comments: What's the biggest lesson you've learned from doing side work? #LoadBearingOpinions #Construction #SkilledTrades #SideWork #Carpentry #ConstructionLife #BlueCollar #Tradespeople #Leadership #Apprenticeship

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Season 1 Episode 13

The conversation emphasizes the importance of continuous learning in the trades and explores alternative education methods available to tradespeople. It delves into the significance of ongoing education and the various ways in which individuals can continue to learn and grow within their trade. Additionally, it highlights the value of alternative education methods such as online resources, social media platforms, and podcasts. The conversation covers the value of continuous learning, the impact of boredom and complacency on skill development, and the importance of consistency in learning. It also includes an announcement of the hundred subscriber giveaway and a discussion on side work and skill development. Takeaways Continuous learning in the trades is essential Alternative education methods are valuable Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth Consistency in learning and skill development is key Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Continuous Learning 03:20 Alternative Education Methods 25:27 The Value of Podcasts and Learning 26:09 Recommendations for Leadership and Business Books 28:11 The Impact of Boredom and Complacency on Learning 34:14 The Importance of Consistency in Learning 36:08 The Consequences of Stagnation and the Need for Continuous Learning 39:52 Announcement of the Hundred Subscriber Giveaway 42:32 Discussion on Side Work and Skill Development

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Season 1 Episode 12

The podcast episode begins with an introduction to the Low Bearing Opinions Podcast, setting the tone for a candid and unscripted conversation. The hosts discuss the challenges of driving in rainy weather, leading to a conversation about the role of a mentor in the trades. They explore the qualities of a good mentor, the responsibility of passing down knowledge, and the role of a bad mentor, emphasizing the importance of consistency, leading by example, and creating a safe space for questions. The conversation delves into the differences in challenges faced by different generations and the importance of learning from failure. It also explores the complexities of mentoring and the decision to give up on someone, as well as the concept of continuous learning in the trades industry. Takeaways Consistency in mentorship Leading by example Creating a safe space for questions Different challenges for each generation Learning from failure Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 10:46 Responsibility of Passing Down Knowledge 20:45 The Role of a Bad Mentor 27:03 Generational Challenges 32:56 Mentorship and Giving Up 41:04 Never Stop Learning

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Season 1 Episode 11

The podcast episode begins with an introduction and discussion of the podcast format, followed by engaging with listeners and comments. The main theme of the episode revolves around the concept of tolerances in construction and personal tolerances, exploring industry standard tolerances and the impact of personal attitudes towards tolerances in construction work. The conversation delves into the science of steps and the evolution of precision in construction. It highlights the impact of precision in construction, the importance of following specifications, and the challenges with concrete thickness and flatness. The significance of control networks in surveying, the role of complacency in precision, and the understanding of measurement error and tolerance are also discussed. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the importance of good mentorship in the trades and the challenge of precision in extreme temperatures. Takeaways Personal tolerances Industry standard tolerances Precision in construction is crucial The importance of being a good mentor in the trades Chapters 00:00 Tolerances in Construction and Personal Tolerances 39:51 The Challenge of Precision in Extreme Temperatures

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Season 1 Episode 10

The podcast episode covers a range of topics, from offbeat banter to serious debates. It delves into the challenges of commuting, the influence of merchandise, and the fashion choices of the hosts. The episode also features a discussion on driving nightmares, the Gridiron Men's Conference, and a series of lighthearted debates on Coke vs. Pepsi, Ford vs. Chevy, Dogs vs. Cats, and iPhone vs. Android. The conversation covers a range of topics including phone usage, texting vs. talking, iPhone vs. Android, pencil vs. marker, paper plans vs. iPads, and the debate between Milwaukee and DeWalt tools. The hosts share personal experiences and preferences, providing insights into their choices and the reasons behind them. The conversation covered a wide range of topics, from unusual diets and beard preferences to humorous family stories and pop culture debates. It also delved into the differences between tolerances in construction and the 'good enough' mentality. Takeaways The importance of maintaining a positive mindset during the commute. The impact of merchandise and fashion choices on personal style and expression. The preference for texting over talking on the phone The impact of phone choices on communication and user experience Unusual diets and food preferences Humorous family stories and debates Chapters 00:00 Off the Rails 07:01 The Gridiron Men's Conference 12:01 Debate: Coke vs. Pepsi 19:56 Debate: Dogs vs. Cats 27:01 Debate: iPhone vs. Android 34:13 Pencil vs. Marker: The Construction Site Conundrum 48:28 Milwaukee vs. DeWalt: The Tool Showdown 54:49 Chicken Wings and Diets 01:00:43 Squirrels and World Cup 01:07:29 Duck Sized Horses vs. Horse Sized Duck 01:17:08 Tolerances in Construction and Good Enough Mentality

Season 1 Episode 9

The podcast conversation covers various themes related to burnout, work-life balance, and career progression in the trades. It delves into the challenges of long hours, being away from home, and the impact on personal life. The speakers also provide advice for young workers and emphasize the importance of gaining experience through travel and career advancement. The conversation covers the impact of lifestyle on work, work-life balance, coping strategies, passion for the work, dealing with difficult colleagues, wellness and burnout prevention, podcast updates, and audience engagement. The hosts share personal experiences and provide insights into managing the challenges of the construction industry, while also encouraging audience participation and feedback for future episodes. Takeaways Impact of burnout in the trades Challenges of irregular work hours Balancing work-life and personal life Advantages of early travel and career advancement Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential for coping with the demands of the construction industry. Engaging in hobbies, physical activity, and humor can help prevent burnout and improve mental well-being. Chapters 00:00 Podcast Introduction and Video Challenges 08:16 Long Hours and Work-Life Balance 16:08 Being Away from Home 22:01 Career Advancement and Travel 27:33 Passion for the Work and Career Choices 34:18 Dealing with Difficult Colleagues 41:57 Podcast Updates and Audience Engagement

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This Week's Episode

Here we talk about what this upcoming weeks episode is about. Maybe a little bit of word stumbling.

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Season 1 Episode 8

The podcast episode discusses the Skills USA National Leadership Conference, addressing the skills gap in construction, and the ego problem in the industry. It highlights the impressive creativity and skills of students, the value of industry exposure, and the challenges associated with ego in construction. The episode emphasizes the importance of confidence, communication, and overcoming ego-related challenges. The conversation covers various themes related to leadership, professionalism, and the misconceptions of construction workers. It also delves into the importance of continuous learning, problem-solving, and the impact of burnout in the trades. The hosts emphasize the significance of ego management, adaptability, and finding joy in one's work. Takeaways Impressive creativity and skills of students The importance of confidence and communication in overcoming ego-related challenges Ego management is crucial for effective leadership Continuous learning and adaptability are essential in the trades Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Skills USA National Leadership Conference 08:55 The Ego Problem in Construction 22:02 The Negative Impact of Ego in Business 28:11 Professionalism in the Trades 35:20 The Misconception of Construction Workers 41:00 Painting the Picture for Your Team 47:07 Podcast Sign-Off

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Season 1 Episode 7

First....We are not Financial Advisors, this is not financial advice. Just some observations, experiences and lessons you may learn from, hopefully earlier than we did. Takeaways Transitioning to a new job in construction often involves a significant increase in pay and working hours. The first big paycheck in construction can lead to irresponsible spending and financial mismanagement. Financial advice: Budget your base income and invest/save any additional income. Investing in 401k: Increase contributions with pay raises and overtime earnings. Be mindful of impulse spending and consider long-term financial goals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Launch 04:54 The Impact of the First Big Paycheck 13:05 Personal Responsibility and Growth 19:02 Advice for Young Workers in Construction 28:33 Investing and 401k 35:00 Financial Mindset and Lifestyle 42:20 Teaser for Next Week's Topic

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