<![CDATA[Trades Unfiltered]]>From Field Work To Freedom — Stories Of Sweat And Steel Behind Service Business Success

You’ve Mastered Your Trade, But Now You’re Building A Business With A Story Nobody Knows

The trades are full of operators who can work hard and deliver quality—but building a business that scales without you on the tools takes more than know-how. Trades Unfiltered is here to highlight those who've made the leap and to unpack what actually got them there.

I'm Ethan Tripodi, and I've seen that real success comes from clarity, leadership, and ownership—not luck or marketing tricks. These conversations offer both inspiration and instruction—real stories, and the mindsets that helped them level up.

]]>tradesunfiltered.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Sat, 06 Jun 2026 18:07:18 GMTSat, 03 Jan 2026 01:36:23 GMT60Ethan Tripodi<h2><b>From Field Work To Freedom — Stories Of Sweat And Steel Behind Service Business Success</b></h2><p><b>You’ve Mastered Your Trade, But Now You’re Building A Business With A Story Nobody Knows</b></p><p></p><p>The trades are full of operators who can work hard and deliver quality—but building a business that scales without you on the tools takes more than know-how. Trades Unfiltered is here to highlight those who've made the leap and to unpack what actually got them there.</p><p></p><p>I'm Ethan Tripodi, and I've seen that real success comes from clarity, leadership, and ownership—not luck or marketing tricks. These conversations offer both inspiration and instruction—real stories, and the mindsets that helped them level up.<br /></p>episodicEthan Tripodime@ethantripodi.comno<![CDATA[TUF #9 - Sales Secrets from a Young Prodigy]]>In this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Jason Melendez Jr., a successful HVAC sales technician who shares his journey from being a technician to becoming a top salesman. Jason discusses his early fascination with entrepreneurship, the importance of customer service, and the mindset shift he experienced as he navigated his career. He emphasizes the significance of genuinely caring for customers and how that approach has led to his success. The conversation also touches on the deeper purpose of life beyond money and the role of faith in finding fulfillment.

]]>4f37d03e-41d8-4af4-9088-cedee7a23a66Thu, 04 Jun 2026 12:56:40 GMT<p>In this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Jason Melendez Jr., a successful HVAC sales technician who shares his journey from being a technician to becoming a top salesman. Jason discusses his early fascination with entrepreneurship, the importance of customer service, and the mindset shift he experienced as he navigated his career. He emphasizes the significance of genuinely caring for customers and how that approach has led to his success. The conversation also touches on the deeper purpose of life beyond money and the role of faith in finding fulfillment.</p>no00:53:329TUF #9 - Sales Secrets from a Young Prodigyfull<![CDATA[TUF #8 - Corporate to Trades]]>Alyssa reflects on her transition from a corporate career in marketing to the trades, emphasizing the learning curve she faced in leadership and team management. She discusses the significance of grassroots marketing and building relationships within the community, which have been crucial for their growth. As they aim for ambitious goals, Alyssa highlights the need for strategic hiring and the importance of surrounding themselves with the right people to achieve their vision. The conversation concludes with Alyssa offering encouragement to those facing challenges in their own business journeys, emphasizing resilience and consistency as key to success.

]]>57be2478-c4f6-4ba8-8212-1c5d111eb5aeThu, 02 Apr 2026 13:34:26 GMT<p>Alyssa reflects on her transition from a corporate career in marketing to the trades, emphasizing the learning curve she faced in leadership and team management. She discusses the significance of grassroots marketing and building relationships within the community, which have been crucial for their growth. As they aim for ambitious goals, Alyssa highlights the need for strategic hiring and the importance of surrounding themselves with the right people to achieve their vision. The conversation concludes with Alyssa offering encouragement to those facing challenges in their own business journeys, emphasizing resilience and consistency as key to success.</p>no00:42:218TUF #8 - Corporate to Tradesfull<![CDATA[TUF #7 - Marketing from a Roofer’s Perspective]]>In this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Zach Bundt, a former roofer turned digital marketer. Zach shares his journey from working in the trades to running his own marketing firm, emphasizing the importance of digital marketing in the roofing industry. He discusses the challenges he faced, including being scammed by marketers and the lessons learned along the way. Zach also reflects on his personal growth, faith journey, and the significance of building a positive company culture. The conversation highlights the importance of continuous learning, humility, and the impact of personal development on business success.

]]>5d021b3b-da54-4c7b-93cd-1591f0687b35Thu, 19 Mar 2026 14:58:03 GMT<p>In this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Zach Bundt, a former roofer turned digital marketer. Zach shares his journey from working in the trades to running his own marketing firm, emphasizing the importance of digital marketing in the roofing industry. He discusses the challenges he faced, including being scammed by marketers and the lessons learned along the way. Zach also reflects on his personal growth, faith journey, and the significance of building a positive company culture. The conversation highlights the importance of continuous learning, humility, and the impact of personal development on business success.</p>no01:08:017TUF #7 - Marketing from a Roofer’s Perspectivefull<![CDATA[TUF#6 - Sales Tales from the Trades]]>In this engaging conversation, Ethan Tripodi interviews Everett Lippel, a podcast host and sales coach, who shares his insights on the HVAC industry, the importance of human connection in sales, and the evolution of professionalism in trades. Everett emphasizes the need for personal development, authenticity, and building a positive company culture. He shares impactful stories from his podcast that highlight the emotional aspects of service calls and the lessons learned from various experiences in the field. The discussion also touches on navigating challenges in business and the significance of investing in people to foster success.

]]>f31c4e9e-f79c-4e1c-a21d-fcb58e2ca412Fri, 27 Feb 2026 05:14:42 GMT<p>In this engaging conversation, Ethan Tripodi interviews Everett Lippel, a podcast host and sales coach, who shares his insights on the HVAC industry, the importance of human connection in sales, and the evolution of professionalism in trades. Everett emphasizes the need for personal development, authenticity, and building a positive company culture. He shares impactful stories from his podcast that highlight the emotional aspects of service calls and the lessons learned from various experiences in the field. The discussion also touches on navigating challenges in business and the significance of investing in people to foster success.</p>no01:05:306TUF#6 - Sales Tales from the Tradesfull<![CDATA[TUF #5 - Sales, Success, Secrets for the Trades]]>In this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Sam Wakefield, a seasoned sales expert in the trades and home service industry. They discuss the importance of personal growth, the transition from technician to sales, and the philosophy of permission-based selling. Sam shares insights on understanding customer psychology, the impact of world events on sales, and the significance of listening and empathy in building trust. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity and identity in sales, encouraging listeners to invest in themselves and their teams for long-term success.

]]>ee907963-b101-40b2-84c6-726cf244724aSat, 21 Feb 2026 06:17:06 GMT<p>In this episode, Ethan Tripodi interviews Sam Wakefield, a seasoned sales expert in the trades and home service industry. They discuss the importance of personal growth, the transition from technician to sales, and the philosophy of permission-based selling. Sam shares insights on understanding customer psychology, the impact of world events on sales, and the significance of listening and empathy in building trust. The conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity and identity in sales, encouraging listeners to invest in themselves and their teams for long-term success.</p>no01:19:195TUF #5 - Sales, Success, Secrets for the Tradesfull<![CDATA[TUF #4 - Balancing Faith, Family, and HVAC (One Call Service Group)]]>Unlock the secret to building lasting generational wealth through faith, strategic business practices, and authentic relationships. Thomas Covington reveals how aligning your purpose with your work can transform your financial future and impact countless lives—including your own family’s—long after you're gone.

In this powerful conversation, Thomas shares his journey from humble beginnings to managing a multi-state construction business, all while honoring his faith and family. You’ll discover how faith isn’t just a personal belief but a foundation for ethical leadership, resilience, and community service. Thomas’s story demonstrates how spiritual principles can guide asset stewardship, turning business into a tool for purpose-driven wealth that benefits future generations.

We break down concrete strategies for entrepreneurs and tradespeople alike:

  • How adopting a faith-centered approach shapes business decisions that last
  • Practical tips on building relationships with property managers and property owners
  • The importance of clarity in financial planning, including setting up family trusts and leveraging IRAs for long-term wealth
  • Why intentional marketing and reputation-building are essential for scaling your business beyond local markets
  • The value of mentoring and investing in your team’s education to foster loyalty and promote legacy wealth

This episode is perfect for tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and faith-driven leaders eager to create more than just short-term income—who want to build a legacy rooted in love, stewardship, and service. If you're feeling frustrated by traditional wealth-building paths or seeking to align your work with deeper purpose, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and act intentionally.

Guest Thomas Covington is a seasoned builder, business owner, and faith advocate known for his innovative integration of faith and finance. His insights show how embracing stewardship, community generosity, and character-driven leadership can lead to both personal and financial transformation.

Remember: Wealth isn’t just what you accumulate—it’s what you pass on. Hit play and start building a legacy that truly lasts.

]]>b21a3a7f-2578-4b0e-ba09-63aa6c14cdbdThu, 12 Feb 2026 14:08:16 GMT<p>Unlock the secret to building lasting generational wealth through faith, strategic business practices, and authentic relationships. Thomas Covington reveals how aligning your purpose with your work can transform your financial future and impact countless lives—including your own family’s—long after you're gone.</p><p></p><p>In this powerful conversation, Thomas shares his journey from humble beginnings to managing a multi-state construction business, all while honoring his faith and family. You’ll discover how faith isn’t just a personal belief but a foundation for ethical leadership, resilience, and community service. Thomas’s story demonstrates how spiritual principles can guide asset stewardship, turning business into a tool for purpose-driven wealth that benefits future generations.</p><p></p><p>We break down concrete strategies for entrepreneurs and tradespeople alike:</p><ul><li>How adopting a faith-centered approach shapes business decisions that last</li><li>Practical tips on building relationships with property managers and property owners</li><li>The importance of clarity in financial planning, including setting up family trusts and leveraging IRAs for long-term wealth</li><li>Why intentional marketing and reputation-building are essential for scaling your business beyond local markets</li><li>The value of mentoring and investing in your team’s education to foster loyalty and promote legacy wealth</li></ul><p>This episode is perfect for tradespeople, entrepreneurs, and faith-driven leaders eager to create more than just short-term income—who want to build a legacy rooted in love, stewardship, and service. If you're feeling frustrated by traditional wealth-building paths or seeking to align your work with deeper purpose, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and act intentionally.</p><p>Guest Thomas Covington is a seasoned builder, business owner, and faith advocate known for his innovative integration of faith and finance. His insights show how embracing stewardship, community generosity, and character-driven leadership can lead to both personal and financial transformation.</p><p></p><p><b>Remember:</b> Wealth isn’t just what you accumulate—it’s what you pass on. Hit play and start building a legacy that truly lasts.</p>no02:08:004TUF #4 - Balancing Faith, Family, and HVAC (One Call Service Group)full<![CDATA[TUF #3 - The No. 1 Secret to Success in HVAC Sales (H.G. Horne) ]]>In this conversation, Huck Horne shares his journey in the HVAC industry, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, understanding client needs, and maintaining core values. He discusses his transition from retail to HVAC, the significance of indoor air quality, and the impact of personal experiences on his career. Huck highlights the importance of educating clients, managing time effectively during service calls, and fostering a positive team environment. He also reflects on the client journey and the need for technicians to embody sincerity and genuine care in their work.

]]>9525e450-3739-44bc-ab41-192e56c2ae19Thu, 05 Feb 2026 14:59:06 GMT<p>In this conversation, Huck Horne shares his journey in the HVAC industry, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, understanding client needs, and maintaining core values. He discusses his transition from retail to HVAC, the significance of indoor air quality, and the impact of personal experiences on his career. Huck highlights the importance of educating clients, managing time effectively during service calls, and fostering a positive team environment. He also reflects on the client journey and the need for technicians to embody sincerity and genuine care in their work.</p>no01:18:293TUF #3 - The No. 1 Secret to Success in HVAC Sales (H.G. Horne) full<![CDATA[TUF #2 - From Zero To Exit To Zero Again In HVAC (Rodeo Heating and Cooling)]]>Tommy Satkowski shares his journey of building and exiting an HVAC business. He discusses the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, the importance of mindset shifts, and the hard realities of running a business. Tommy emphasizes the significance of hiring the right team, understanding profitability versus revenue, and the critical role of customer service. As he embarks on a new venture, he reflects on the lessons learned and the challenges ahead, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.

]]>a7296dca-f4fe-4aa8-b987-97c9aeec5554Thu, 15 Jan 2026 22:49:54 GMT<p>Tommy Satkowski shares his journey of building and exiting an HVAC business. He discusses the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, the importance of mindset shifts, and the hard realities of running a business. Tommy emphasizes the significance of hiring the right team, understanding profitability versus revenue, and the critical role of customer service. As he embarks on a new venture, he reflects on the lessons learned and the challenges ahead, offering valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.</p>no01:36:132TUF #2 - From Zero To Exit To Zero Again In HVAC (Rodeo Heating and Cooling)full<![CDATA[TUF #1 - A $5M HVAC Start-Up Story (Leaps & Bounds Heating and Cooling) ]]>Brandon Carey and Isaac Vazquez, the owners of Leaps and Bounds HVAC in South Central Pennsylvania. They discuss the journey of starting their business, which began in the summer of 2022, and officially launched in February 2024. The conversation covers the challenges of entrepreneurship, including the unexpected difficulties and sacrifices involved, such as managing relationships and making tough decisions. Brandon and Isaac emphasize the importance of teamwork, communication, and having a clear vision for the future. They share insights on leadership, the significance of branding, and the value of learning from mentors and industry peers. The clip concludes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs to find a good partner and to take the leap when they feel prepared.

]]>e1b17c7d-448a-489e-a334-4b2ff0795b1fTue, 06 Jan 2026 04:32:00 GMT<p>Brandon Carey and Isaac Vazquez, the owners of Leaps and Bounds HVAC in South Central Pennsylvania. They discuss the journey of starting their business, which began in the summer of 2022, and officially launched in February 2024. The conversation covers the challenges of entrepreneurship, including the unexpected difficulties and sacrifices involved, such as managing relationships and making tough decisions. Brandon and Isaac emphasize the importance of teamwork, communication, and having a clear vision for the future. They share insights on leadership, the significance of branding, and the value of learning from mentors and industry peers. The clip concludes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs to find a good partner and to take the leap when they feel prepared.</p>no01:12:481TUF #1 - A $5M HVAC Start-Up Story (Leaps & Bounds Heating and Cooling) full