Going Viral in the Electrical Trade with @live_sparks | Torque Up Podcast S2E1

Welcome to Season 2 of the Torque Up Podcast, the go-to show for electricians and the wider electrical community! We’re kicking things off with an unmissable episode featuring viral sensation @live_sparks. Join us as we dive into the highs and lows of going viral in the electrical world—@live_sparks opens up about the intense reactions, hate he’s received, and the real deal behind "house bashing" in the trade.

From handling internet fame to breaking down the realities of the day-to-day grind, this episode offers a candid look at the challenges and triumphs of a modern electrician. Whether you’re an apprentice, a seasoned spark, or simply interested in the trade, this episode is packed with insights, stories, and advice for everyone in the industry!

🎧 Listen on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts
🎥 Watch the video on YouTube

Special thanks to our sponsor, Alert Electrical – the East Midlands’ award-winning, independent electrical supplier with seven branches and an online store. Head to alertelectrical.com and use the code NAVITAS5 for 5% off all Navitas products until Episode 2 drops!

#TorqueUpPodcast #ElectriciansPodcast #LiveSparks #HouseBashing #ElectricalCommunity #AlertElectrical

The wait is finally over! In this highly anticipated episode, all your favorite hosts—Will, Junii, and James—are back together, and they’re joined by a very special guest: Steve, the Managing Director of Wiha UK! Whether you’re an electrician, engineer, or just passionate about the electrical world, this episode is packed with insider tips, expert insights, and electrifying discussions. Steve takes us behind the scenes of Wiha UK, sharing how their top-tier tools are revolutionising the industry.

From pro tips for staying ahead in the trade to the tools that will transform your work, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for. Don't miss out—make sure to subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts to stay plugged in!

⚡️ And don’t forget to sign up for the Watts Up Newsletter for even more electrifying updates.

Sponsored by Wiha UK – Precision at your fingertips.

That’s right we have finally done it, TORQUE UP is here and with our first episode Will & Jay discuss Thermal Derating and IP65 Consumer units. They also have a great Q&A as well as a prize Giveaway

As hosts of the show, we wanted to start our podcast by sharing the rise and fall of our first business Monaco Money Clothing. We share our experiences as two young entrepreneurs with a lot to learn.

The success and the failures that we learnt from to build successful careers. We hope you find some lessons useful and can learn from our mistakes so you don't have to make them. Also, if you have ever thought about starting your own business, no matter how young or old you are we are proof you can!

Our podcast is also available on YouTube : www.youtube.com/@william.winter

In our latest episode of the Torque Up podcast for electricians, we dive into a lively discussion on the differing opinions regarding coding on-site. Additionally, we explore how wholesalers can play a more significant role in incentivizing electricians to make purchases from them. This includes proposing ideas like referral programs and implementing self-service checkouts. Furthermore, we are thrilled to unveil the winner of the VETO Pro Pack tool bag giveaway, along with other exciting updates. Stay tuned for engaging conversations and valuable insights in this episode! This Episode is sponsored by the amazing guys at WIHA UK, your go to tool manufacturer for all your electrical needs, whether you're an apprentice or a seasoned professional! #TorqueUpPodcast#ElectricianPodcast#PowerTalks#WiredWisdom#SparkPlugPodcast#VoltageVibes#CurrentChatter#AmpedUpConversations#JoltJournals#SocketStories

With a year of change happening, with legislation, products and brands. The guys asked what are the biggest challenges facing the three key sectors of the electrical industry: - Electricians - Wholesalers - Manufacturers With Junii's new role at Navitas being customer facings with wholesalers he shares what he thinks the challenges they are facing Whilst James and Will talk about the challenges electricians and manufacturers face from a first hand perspective. But what do you think? We'd love to hear from you This episode is sponsored by WIHA UK who are one of the market leaders in tools for the trade. With their products made in Germany and an amazingly responsive support team here in the UK, why not try them out! #electrical #podcast #torqueup #electrician #electricalcontractors #electricalpodcast #electricianspodcast

Episode 7 sees the return of Big Jay and the guys get into the hot topic of Amendment three and bidirectional devices.

Some interesting pet peeves, a documentary announcement and the big one is the winner of our sponsors giveaway from episode 6.

This months episode has an absolutely awesome giveaway thanks to Unilite so don't miss out

Episode is sponsored by WIHA UK

Sign up to Jimbo's Watts Up Newsletter here: https://wattsupnewsletter.co.uk

A drama filled Episode that is slightly late!

From EICR scams costing electricians £1000's to Hager responding to criticism of their AFDD devices.

Topped off with the facts behind Williams departure from Premspec.

Capped off perfectly with a giveaway thanks to our show sponsors WIHA.

Welcome back to Torque Up, with Jimbo and Will.

The guys talk everything from electrical madness in Thailand and China to Tool theft and tool advice for apprentices.

They also go into an interesting topic of what to charge friends and family, a topic that causes a lot of arguments.

This with some amazing giveaways from our sponsors of the episode, UNILTE and VERSO.

Welcome back everyone to Episode four of the Torque Up Podcast. It was supposed to be Episode Three but we squeezed the Xmas special in there for you last month! In this episode the guys go into depth on Trade shows from the electrical industry and what and why they do work and what is the reason they don't. We also cover EV chargers, Cowboy Kev, the London Fire Brigade and the IET as well as EICRS and much more! You can also watch on Youtube at as well www.youtube.com/@torqueup . #TorqueUp #TorqueupPodcast #ElectricalPodcast #electriciansPodcast #electricalcontractors #Sparks #electricians #eicr #evchargers

Welcome back to the Torque Up Podcast, in this our Christmas Special with Jay, Will & Jimbo.

In this Episode which has kindly been supported by Wiha with an awesome Christmas bundle giveaway the guys go over some technical stuff including the dark side of Arc Fault Detection Devices. We talk tools and have some great Q&A questions from our listeners as well!

Want to see the guys dressed up, you can always watch this episode over on YouTube!

Welcome back to Torque Up. This Episode is sponsored by Verso, the electricians favourite manufacturer of domestic circuit protection and wiring accessories. With individually tested devices and products designed to make the installers life easier, safer and awesome!

On this Episode we introduce our new co-host James, most commonly known as Jimbo the Electrician.

The guys talk over Jimbo's social media rise as well as the personal journey he went through as a young spark to get to where he is today.

As well as our usual Q&A and product review of the new HANG-R product which Jimbo has used.

Thanks for listening and we hope you enjoy

BIG BRANDS ARE LYING TO YOU | SPDs, BS 7671 & The Truth They Do Not Want You To Know

🎙️ Torque Up Podcast | Episode 23 | With Kirsty Johnson

Big brands are controlling the industry and installers are paying the price.
In this explosive episode, we sit down with Kirsty Johnson, Technical Director at Surge Protection Devices Ltd and member of the JPEL committee, to reveal what is really happening behind the scenes of BS 7671, SPDs and product marketing.

If you are an electrician, contractor, wholesaler or trainer, this episode will change the way you think about the industry.

🟢 The hidden politics shaping BS 7671 and JPEL decisions
⚫ The truth about SPDs and why busbar fed installs can be unsafe
🟢 How big brands influence installers and wholesalers through marketing
⚫ The conflict between best practice, safety and commercial agendas
🟢 Why RCBOs are changing the way we protect circuits
⚫ How electricians can protect themselves and their customers

🎥 Watch on YouTube → https://youtube.com/@TorqueUp
🎧 Listen on Spotify → https://spotify.com/TorqueUp
🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/TorqueUp

What You Will Learn In This EpisodeListen To More Episodes

In this episode of the Torque Up Podcast we sit down with Mitch, aka Bright Spark from the Midlands, to talk about one of the biggest challenges facing the trade today – the government’s failure to protect electrical apprenticeships.

We discuss the impact of rising costs, why apprentices are at risk of being priced out of the industry, and what this means for the next generation of sparks. Mitch also shares real site stories, the struggles of running a business, and how social media is changing the game for electricians.

⚡ Sponsored by Chauvin Arnoux UK – test and measurement instruments trusted by professionals.

00:00 – Welcome to Season 3

01:40 – Meet Mitch aka Bright Spark

04:50 – Social media and the trade

10:10 – Tesla chargers and PEN protection

16:20 – Running your own business as a spark

31:30 – Apprenticeships: then vs now

40:00 – Why government policy is failing apprentices

44:40 – Rising costs and National Insurance impact

50:00 – Will weekend courses replace apprenticeships?

Join us for Episode 13 of the Torque Up Podcast—our highly anticipated Christmas special! Proudly sponsored by Alert Electrical, the East Midlands' award-winning independent wholesalers, we’re bringing you festive vibes and top-tier content to wrap up the year.

This episode is packed with highlights, including the funniest moments of 2024, our New Year’s resolutions, and a deep dive into the MK product recall. Plus, we’re sharing our favorite social media personalities of 2024 and spotlighting the brands we think will dominate in 2025.

Don’t forget: Alert Electrical is giving you 5% off all online purchases with the promo code TUP5. 🎉

Catch all the action on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube! Stay tuned for laughs, insights, and a festive good time.

Hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss a thing! 🎄

Torque Up Podcast Episode 12: The Band's Back Together! 🎙️ After months apart, the Torque Up crew is reunited for the first time in what feels like forever to kick off Season Two with a bang! Will, Junii, and James dive into some of the highlights from the upcoming season and reflect on how far the podcast has come. What started as a small idea between three industry pros has grown into a platform that’s resonating with electricians and the wider electrical community across the UK. The guys look ahead to 2024, discussing some of the big changes they’ve all been experiencing and sharing their hopes for the podcast’s future. There’s a lot to get excited about, from new opportunities in the industry to the lessons they’ve learned since launching the podcast. They also shine a spotlight on the ELEX shows, talking about their experiences so far and how they hope to see these vital industry events evolve in 2025 and beyond. This episode is packed with insights, laughs, and, as always, the down-to-earth conversations that make Torque Up a favorite among sparkies. Whether you’re here for the tips, the banter, or just to stay up to date with the industry, Episode 12 is a must-watch! Sponsored by @NavitasCP – Pound for pound, the UK’s best range of circuit protection products. Navitas is helping electricians raise the bar with innovative solutions designed for modern installations. Plus, listeners can get 20% off their next order at navitascp.co.uk using the promo code PODCAST20. Tune in, get inspired, and join the conversation as we kick off another amazing season! #TorqueUpPodcast #Electricians #SeasonTwo #NavitasCP #ELEXShows #ElectricalCommunity

This is it. The final episode of Season 2 and it's the one that could change everything.In Episode 21 of the Torque Up Podcast, host William Winter is joined by John Bagley and James Watkins for one of our deepest and most thought-provoking conversations yet.We dive headfirst into the world of AI and the trades, asking the big questions no one else is daring to tackle:🧠 What does artificial intelligence mean for the future of electricians, wholesalers, and manufacturers?🔧 How can tradespeople use AI to grow their businesses, save time, and stay ahead of the curve?📉 Will it disrupt or empower the next generation of apprentices and skilled labour?💷 And what about tax, national insurance, and the rising pressure on small business owners?This episode explores the real world impacts of technology, government policy, and cultural shifts on the trades and why the electrical industry cannot afford to ignore them. We talk openly about the future of apprenticeships, the cost of doing business, and how policy decisions are shaping the lives of young people entering the trade.Whether you are on the tools, managing a wholesaler, or leading a brand, this is the episode you cannot afford to miss.🔥 Available now on Spotify and Apple Podcasts🎧 Listen on the go or watch the full video here on YouTube💻 Learn more at www.torqueup.co.uk💥 Proudly sponsored by Wiha UK (@WihaUK)One of the world’s leading names in precision tools for professionals in the trade.📍Do not forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell so you do not miss Season 3. Bigger guests, bigger topics, and even more truth from the heart of the electrical industry.#TorqueUpPodcast #ElectriciansUK #AIintheTrades #SmallBusinessUK #TradeTalk #ElectricalIndustry #WihaTools #NationalInsurance #Apprenticeships #TalkUp #torqueuppodcast

🔌 TORQUE UP PODCAST EPISODE 20 – PART ONE: LIVE FROM THE ELEX SHOW EXETER 🔧We’re back with another massive two-part special – and this time, it’s recorded live on the road at the ELEX Show in Exeter. This is Torque Up like you’ve never seen it before.In Part One of Episode 20, we took the mics to the South West to bring you the raw energy, unfiltered opinions, and real conversations happening on the floor at one of the UK’s biggest electrical trade shows. Whether you were there or missed it, this episode captures everything that makes ELEX a cornerstone of the trade calendar.💥 TOOL WARS. FUSEBOARD FIGHTS. INDUSTRY CHAT. BUSINESS REAL TALK.We kicked things off with our now-infamous "Fuseboard and Tool War" challenge – putting brands to the test and putting installers on the spot. Which fuseboards do electricians actually rate? Which tools make the cut in real-world installs? And what’s the real word on the ground from those who do it every day?Expect laughs, debates, and a few controversial takes as we pit some of the UK’s biggest electrical brands against each other in a format that’s becoming a fan favourite.🎤 WHAT ELSE DID WE COVER IN EXETER?We didn’t just play games – we dug deep into the real issues electricians care about:✅ Trade shows: Are they still worth it in 2025?We asked the crowd – is the cost of travel, time away from site, and effort still worth what’s on offer? The answers were mixed and honest.✅ Electrical business in 2025: What's changed?We sat down with electricians, contractors and suppliers to hear their take on how the game is shifting. From compliance to competition, pricing to product support – nothing was off limits.✅ Why some wholesalers are winning, and others are falling behindThis one hit home with a lot of visitors – especially the ones fed up with bland service and poor product knowledge. As always, we said what others are thinking but won’t say out loud.✅ Industry gossip, honest opinions, and good vibesIf you know Torque Up, you know it’s not just business. We bring the banter, the laughs, and the connections that make the electrical community stronger.🚨 THIS IS ONLY PART ONEPart Two is coming in hot from the ELEX Harrogate show – and trust us, if you liked Exeter, you do not want to miss what’s coming next. Bigger crowd. Bolder opinions. And a few surprise guests that shook up the show.Make sure you’re subscribed to @TorqueUp on YouTube and following us on all socials so you don’t miss the next drop.📍 FILMED ON LOCATION AT ELEX EXETER 2025Big thanks to everyone who came up, shared their stories, and got involved. Whether you’re a spark on the tools, a wholesaler, a manufacturer, or just someone who loves the trade – this episode is for you.🔥 DON’T MISS PART TWO – ELEX HARROGATE SPECIAL 🔥It’s the follow-up you’ve been waiting for – more voices, more energy, more raw talk from the North of England. Coming next week. Hit the bell and stay locked in.🎧 Available on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | TikTok | Instagram🎙️ Hosted by William & Junii from NavitasBacked by real experience. Driven by passion for the trade.#TorqueUp #ELEXShow #ElectriciansUK #ToolWars #FuseBoardGame #CircuitProtection #Navitas #TradeShowVibes #ElectricianLife #PodcastUK #ElectricalBusiness #Wholesalers #ToolsOfTheTrade #ELEXExeter #HarrogatePreview

Episode 19 | Theo Webster: From £40K Debt to Industry Respect

This is the one.From building a 13-person electrical business at 22, to falling off a ladder, breaking his back, and facing £40,000 in debt — Theo Webster’s story is one of grit, pain, and the relentless will to rebuild.

In this two-hour deep-dive, Theo joins Will & Junii for a brutally honest conversation about:🔌 What no one tells you about running a business in the trades⚡ The dangerous mindset of “just getting the job done”💰 Why social media courses for sparks might not be worth your cash🧠 Mental pressure, managing staff, and learning leadership the hard way🏆 How he came back stronger — and what it really took

This isn’t just another podcast.It’s a survival story, a business masterclass, and a reminder that the job can take everything if you’re not careful.

Whether you’re just starting out or ten years deep — this episode will hit home.

🎙️ Hosted by Will & Junii🛠 Powered by @WihaUK⚡ Supported by Navitas Circuit Protection & Doncaster Cables

WATCH on YouTube or LISTEN on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.

#TorqueUpPodcast | #TheoWebster | #SparkyTalk | #ElectricianLife | #TradesPodcast | #ContractorJourney | #UKTrades | #ElectricianPodcast

We’re back with a monster episode — LIVE (well, filmed live) from the buzzing ELEX Show at Alexandra Palace!

Episode 18 of the Torque Up Podcast brings you a full mix of laughs, honesty, trade talk, and behind-the-scenes realities from some of the biggest personalities in the industry.

Featuring:

• Tall Sparky & Ryan Davis – raw takes on content burnout, chasing dream lives, and what people don’t see behind the posts

• OM Electrical – from bored spark to content beast, saying no to brands, and why filming a consumer unit isn’t always worth it

• Charlie from Wiha UK – tools, backpacks, and his first-ever trade show experience

• Julian & Elliot from Chauvin-Arnoux – banter, testing talk, and rescuing pigs during a year off

• Plus reflections on social media pressure, holiday cover systems, and the truth about making content in the trade

This episode is a proper celebration of trade creators, community, and graft — filmed in the middle of the busiest tool show in the UK.

AND this is just the beginning. Torque Up will be at EVERY ELEX SHOW for the rest of the year.

Come find us, jump on the mic, and be part of the movement.

🎧 Watch on YouTube. Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Follow @TorqueUp for all episodes, shorts, and trade content with no filters.

Torque Up Ep 17: The Cable Crisis No One Is Talking AboutIn this explosive episode of Torque Up, we sit down with Aaron from Doncaster Cables, one of the last remaining UK manufacturers of electrical cable, to uncover the hidden danger threatening our trade.⚠️ Substandard cable is flooding the UK market.⚠️ Electrical wholesalers with zero manufacturing expertise are importing it.⚠️ And thousands of UK jobs have been lost because of it.We’re talking about a product that goes into almost every single circuit in the country, yet barely anyone is questioning where it’s coming from... or what’s really inside it.Doncaster Cables is one of the few standing tall — testing, certifying, and manufacturing right here in Britain. In this episode, we dig deep into:🟢 The alarming rise of cheap, dangerous cable in the UK⚫ The real-world consequences of losing UK manufacturing🟢 Why sparkies NEED to know what they're installing⚫ How unregulated imports are putting your reputation, and your customers at riskWith the full squad in the studio, Will, Junii and James, this one is honest, emotional, and essential viewing for every electrician who cares about standards, safety, and the future of our industry.If you’ve ever trusted that the cable on the shelf is safe… you need to watch this.🔌 Sponsored by @WihaUK — trusted tools for tradespeople who demand more.🔗 Watch now and subscribe to stay powered up with the best in the game.#TorqueUpPodcast #DoncasterCables #ElectriciansUK #MadeInUK #ElectricalSafety #SubstandardCable #UKManufacturing #CableCrisis #WihaTools #SupportUKManufacturing

Torque Up Podcast - Episode 16: Inside South & City College Birmingham’s Trade Day!

In this action-packed episode of the Torque Up Podcast, Will & Jay travel to South & City College Birmingham to attend their highly anticipated annual Trade Day—an event dedicated to helping electrical apprentices, trainees, and students connect with leading electrical brands, manufacturers, and employers.

This episode is all about giving future electricians a deeper insight into the electrical industry, from the latest tools and technology to career opportunities and professional growth. If you're an apprentice, a newly qualified electrician, or an experienced spark looking to stay ahead, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

We sit down with some of the key figures behind the event to get their thoughts on the state of the industry, emerging electrical technologies, and how trade events like this shape the future workforce.

🔹 Richard Fort – The organiser of the event explains why Trade Days are vital for students, how they bridge the gap between education and employment, and what apprentices can do to maximise their opportunities.

🔹 Emma from SOLAX – Discussing the latest developments in solar energy, battery storage, and renewable technology, plus how electricians can upskill to work with EV charging, solar PV, and home energy management systems.

🔹 Connar from Navitas – Breaking down the importance of circuit protection, RCBOs, surge protection devices, and electrical safety, while also sharing his insights on BS 7671 wiring regulations and best practices for modern installations.

💡 Get insider knowledge on the best brands, electrical products, and career pathways for electricians.
⚡ Learn about new trends in renewable energy, EV charging, and smart home technology that are shaping the future of the trade.
🔧 Hear from experts about the skills electricians need to stand out in a competitive industry.
🛠️ Discover how apprentices and trainees can gain hands-on experience and network with potential employers at events like these.

Whether you're just starting your electrical apprenticeship, considering becoming a self-employed electrician, or looking to grow your career in commercial, industrial, or domestic electrical work, this episode is packed with actionable insights and industry updates.

👉 Hit play now to dive into the latest trends and opportunities in the electrical industry! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of the Torque Up Podcast.

📺 Watch now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts!

#ElectricianPodcast #TradeDay #ElectricalApprentice #TorqueUpPodcast #SolarEnergy #EVCharging #ElectricalTraining #WiringRegulations #SmartHome #ElectricalSafety #RenewableEnergy #BS7671 #CircuitProtection #ElectriciansLife #ElectricianBusiness

Exclusive Interviews with Industry ExpertsWhy You Should Watch This Episode

The electrical industry is changing fast, and online platforms are at the heart of it. In Episode 15 of the Torque Up Podcast, we sit down with Alert Electrical to unpack the massive shift happening in the trade. With e-commerce, social media, and online wholesalers reshaping the landscape, electricians, suppliers, and brands are facing new challenges—and not all of them are good.🚨 Key Topics We Cover in This Episode:⚡ The Rise of Online Electrical Sales: How the shift to e-commerce is affecting electricians, wholesalers, and manufacturers.⚡ Are Electrical Wholesalers at Risk? Could traditional wholesalers be creating a market that ultimately harms their own business model?⚡ The Social Media Effect: While online platforms have opened up new opportunities for electricians, are they also spreading misinformation, undercutting expertise, and damaging the trade?⚡ Brands Under Pressure: How electrical brands are being forced to adapt to this changing marketplace—or risk being left behind.⚡ The Knock-On Effect: What does this all mean for the future of the electrical industry? Will convenience kill quality?This episode is a must-watch for electricians, electrical wholesalers, and anyone in the trade who wants to stay ahead of the curve. Whether you’re an independent contractor, a wholesaler, or a manufacturer, the way electrical products are bought and sold is shifting rapidly.💥 Exclusive Discount for Our Listeners!Alert Electrical are sponsoring this episode and offering an exclusive deal—use the code NAVITAS10 for 10% off the entire Navitas range of circuit protection. But hurry—it’s only valid until the next episode drops!🎧 Watch & Listen Now on:📺 YouTube – Full video podcast🎙️ Spotify & Apple Podcasts – Listen on the go👊 Join the Conversation!Have you felt the impact of online selling in your work? Are wholesalers adapting the right way? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it.#TorqueUpPodcast #ElectricalIndustry #Electricians #ElectricalWholesaling #OnlineSales #Ecommerce #ElectricalSupplies #TradeTalk #CircuitProtection #Navitas #AlertElectrical

🔧 Torque Up - Episode 14: Hackwood Electrical, Tool Theft, and more!Welcome to Episode 14 of Torque Up, the ultimate podcast for electricians and tradespeople looking to level up!

🎙️💡 In this episode, hosts Will from  @navitascp  and  @jimbotheelectrician3819  sit down with the brilliant  @hackwoodelectrical  – a tradesman with a powerful story to tell.

From surviving a tough apprenticeship to building a thriving electrical business, Hackwood shares his highs, lows, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

🛠️✨But that’s not all! The guys tackle one of the most critical issues plaguing the trades industry today: tool theft. 🧰💔 This epidemic leaves hardworking tradespeople across the UK reeling from financial losses, emotional stress, and stalled projects. We explore the harsh realities of theft, why it’s such a massive problem, and the severe lack of government action to support and protect those affected.

“It’s not just about losing tools; it’s about losing your livelihood.” – Will

The episode also dives into productivity hacks and must-have software that help electricians and tradespeople work smarter, not harder.

From scheduling tools to apps that help you keep track of quotes and invoices, Jimbo, and Hackwood reveal the systems they swear by to save hours of time, grow their businesses, and boost profits. 💼⏳⚡

This week’s episode is sponsored by Wiha – the trusted brand for premium tools that make life easier for tradespeople. Whether you're working on-site or on the go, Wiha products are built to perform.

Check them out and take your toolkit to the next level!

🔧✨Why You Should Watch This Episode:Hear Hackwood’s inspiring story and gain valuable tips for your own careerLearn how to protect yourself from tool theft and minimise its impact 💼🔒

Discover time-saving software to streamline your business and improve your bottom lineGet insights on the challenges tradespeople face and how to overcome them

Don’t miss out! Hit that LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔, and SHARE with your fellow tradespeople to spread the word.

Relevant Links & Resources:

📸 Follow @hackwood_electrical for more on instagram🔗 Explore Wiha Tools: https://wiha.com/gb/en/#TorqueUpPodcast

#TradespeopleSuccess #HackwoodJourney #ToolTheftAwareness #WihaTools #ElectriciansBusiness #TimeSavingTools #TradesLifeHacks

💡 Got a topic you want us to cover?

Drop it in the comments below, and let’s keep the conversation going. Thanks for watching! 🎥✨

Steve and Frank from PowerShack join Will and Jay for one of the most entertaining episodes yet.

From running a small Essex wholesaler to becoming viral TikTok stars, the lads from Blackwall Electrical Supplies talk openly about business, burnout, buying groups and the power of social media in the electrical trade.

🟢 How PowerShack built a following by mixing humour with hard graft
⚫️ Why old school wholesaling is changing faster than anyone expected
🟢 What manufacturers and contractors can learn from social media
⚫️ Why buying groups like the EIB are changing the game for independents

It’s real talk from the trade’s new generation of wholesalers who aren’t afraid to mix banter with business.

🎙 Hosted by Will Winter and Jay Whyte
🎧 Sponsored by C A U K – trusted test and measurement solutions built for professionals
📩 Sponsorship and guest enquiries: podcast@torqueup.co.uk

#TorqueUpPodcast #PowerShack #Electricians #Wholesalers #ElectricalIndustry #CAUK #TradesTalk #ElectricalLife #TikTokElectricians #UKConstruction #Navitas

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 Intro and sponsor read – Chauvin Arnoux
01:00 The long drive from Essex and car crash stories
04:00 How Blackwall Electrical Supplies became PowerShack
06:00 Family business roots and early wholesaling days
08:00 Working with friends and keeping it professional
12:00 The politics of the electrical industry
16:00 Sales reps, service standards and lost professionalism
18:00 Trade mornings and the value of counter staff
20:00 Why manufacturers can’t give installation advice
23:00 The hidden risk in imported cable
25:00 Price pressure and the impact on independents
27:00 How PowerShack use social media to stay relevant
30:00 Wholesalers choosing visibility over e-commerce
32:00 Manufacturers, marketing and TikTok influence
34:00 Collaborations between independents
37:00 The role of buying groups and joining the EIB
39:00 From burnout to building community
42:00 Why the EIB feels different from other groups
45:00 Is traditional marketing dead
47:00 The rise of storytelling and authenticity online
49:00 The real ROI of content creation
52:00 Building a PowerShack studio and future plans
55:00 Final thoughts – having fun while building the brand

t’s the Halloween Special of the Torque Up Podcast and this one hits close to home.

Will, Jay and Jimbo sit down for an unfiltered talk about what’s really haunting the trade. From burnout and stress to AI, TikTok and the future of UK wholesalers – this episode dives deep into the issues every electrician, manufacturer and wholesaler is facing right now.

🟢 Are we all just working too hard for too little
⚫️ Can AI really help the trade or will it replace it
🟢 What happens to wholesalers if the new budget fails
⚫️ Why cutting corners and chasing price is the real horror story

Plug in and power up with the Torque Up crew.
Sponsored by CAUK – trusted test and measurement solutions built for professionals.

🎙 Hosted by Will Winter, Jay Whyte and Jimbo Chapman
📩 For sponsorship or guest enquiries: info@navitascp.co.uk

#TorqueUpPodcast #Electricians #Wholesalers #ElectricalIndustry #CAUK #TradesTalk #ElectricalLife #AIElectricians #ConstructionUK #Navitas

00:00 Intro and sponsor read
01:00 Getting life back on track and managing stress
03:00 Jimbo’s Sunday reset routine
05:00 The guilt of taking time off
07:00 Balancing business, family and content creation
10:00 Why everyone feels burnt out
12:00 Short form content and the TikTok effect
15:00 Buying electrical gear online
17:00 Doomscrolling and mental overload
18:00 Meta glasses, ChatGPT and the rise of AI
21:00 Using AI without losing creativity
27:00 DIY disasters and accountability in the trade
31:00 Unsafe products and scary shortcuts
33:00 Sponsor message – CAUK
34:00 What’s really happening with wholesalers
36:00 Regional gaps and stalled projects
39:00 Inflation, politics and the cost of materials
43:00 How independents will be hit hardest
49:00 Solar growth and the risk of overtrading
52:00 Manufacturers vs wholesalers
54:00 Online pricing and the race to the bottom
58:00 Final thoughts and wrap up

⏱️ Episode Chapters

Luke Freeman joins Will Winter and Jay to talk about life as a self-employed electrician, how he built Freeman Electrical from scratch, and what it takes to stay booked two months ahead after just one year in business.

From early graft and nightmare hotels to navigating apprenticeships and growing a loyal client base, this episode is packed with honesty, laughs, and lessons every electrician can relate to.

Luke opens up about his journey, social media strategy, and the mindset that’s helped him turn hard work into opportunity — proving that with drive, consistency, and the right attitude, anything’s possible in this trade.

Chauvin Arnoux UK — Industry-leading test and measurement solutions for professionals.
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Navitas Circuit Protection — Precision-engineered consumer units, RCBOs and SPDs built for professionals.
🔗 navitascp.co.uk

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n this powerful episode of the Torque Up Podcast Will and Jay sit down with Stephen “Compo” Comparetto, director and shareholder at 7 Core Electrical, to pull back the curtain on the world of electrical wholesalers.

Compo’s story is one of true grassroots grit. From starting out on the tools to leading a multi million pound independent wholesaler, he shares the highs, the challenges, and the bold decisions that shaped his career including a management buyout (MBO) and a major buying group switch.

This conversation goes beyond business. We explore:
🟢 The real role wholesalers play in supporting electricians every day
⚫️ How buying groups influence the trade and why changes matter
🟢 The risks and rewards of going through an MBO
⚫️ The pressures politics and economics place on the wholesale sector
🟢 What it takes to rise from apprentice to director in the UK electrical industry

If you are an electrician, wholesaler, or anyone connected to the trade, this episode gives you the insider view you will not hear anywhere else.

👉 Sponsored by Chauvin Arnoux UK, experts in test and measurement solutions trusted worldwide.

Subscribe now and do not miss this deep dive into the business and politics of UK electrical wholesaling.

#TorqueUpPodcast #NavitasCP #7CoreElectrical #ElectricalWholesaler #ElectricianLife #AllAboutPower

It’s the third Torque Up festive special, but this year the tinsel takes a back seat and the lads go deep on the technical question hitting installs up and down the country:

Can a Type 2 SPD rely on an upstream service fuse for overcurrent protection, or must it have a dedicated protective device within the installer’s control?

The sparks’ sentiment in the room is clear:
manufacturer thermal ratings are part of the product design, but they do not guarantee compliance under BS 7671 if there is no dedicated, testable, local overcurrent protective device protecting the SPD as part of the installation.

What you’ll take from this episode:

● A thermal disconnection flag is a failsafe, not overcurrent protection
● The upstream DNO fuse is not dedicated to the SPD circuit, and has unknown characteristics for selectivity and verification
● Install design must meet the literal minimums of BS 7671 installers can verify and test
● Why Navitas kept the 32A MCB in their SPD consumer unit design when others removed it
● The wider industry frustration: installs previously passed are now being flagged for missing protection
● Why electricians care more about predictable disconnection than tidy ratings claims

This episode is educational trade discussion and reflects installer opinion and public regulatory interpretation conversations only. Nothing stated alleges wrongdoing by any person, brand, or organisation, nor constitutes legal or professional instruction. Always consult BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 and the Building Regulations when determining compliant protective device requirements.

Season long sponsor: Chauvin Arnoux

00:00 Xmas Special Intro

02:45 The SPD failure story

08:30 Thermal disconnector vs overcurrent protection

14:10 The upstream fuse problem explained

20:20 Manufacturer claims vs installer verification

27:40 Why inspectors flag missing OCPD

35:15 Navitas testing and product design decisions

41:55 Installer community frustrations

48:30 Who carries the risk when interpretation shifts

53:20 What installers should actually verify

59:10 Big industry question posed back to sparks

1:03:45 Xmas chaos interlude

1:05:44 CSPs and clearer communication chat

1:12:31 Worst Xmas crackers and gifts

1:14:34 Compliance psychology returns

1:18:46 Signing off for the year, looking ahead

What’s actually going wrong in the electrical industry right now?

In this episode of the Torque Up Podcast, we sit down with Dave Savory to break down the real issues affecting electricians across the UK.

From competent person schemes and industry standards to social media, content creation, and the future of the trade… nothing is off limits.

This is a raw and honest conversation about what’s really happening behind the scenes in the trade.

If you’re an electrician, contractor, or part of the construction industry… this one will hit home.

WHAT WE COVER

🟢 Competent person schemes and whether they actually work
⚫ Why many electricians feel undervalued
🟢 Routes into the trade and where they’re falling short
⚫ The reality of industry standards and accountability
🟢 Social media, content, and influence in the trade
⚫ What needs to change moving forward

🎙️ ABOUT TORQUE UP

Torque Up Podcast brings real conversations from inside the electrical industry.
No scripts. No filters. Just honest discussions with the people shaping the trade.

⚖️ DISCLAIMER

The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the hosts and guests and are shared for general discussion purposes only. They do not constitute professional, legal, or technical advice.

Neutral conductors running hotter than the phase conductors.

It sounds backwards. But electricians across the industry are starting to see it happen more and more.

In Episode 32 of Torque Up, we sit down with the team from Chauvin Arnoux UK (CA UK) to break down what is really happening inside modern electrical installations.

With the rise of LED lighting, EV chargers, solar systems, variable speed drives and electronic loads, the electrical systems we work on today behave very differently to the resistive systems they were originally designed for.

Harmonics, non linear loads and DC electronics are changing the way current flows through installations. In some cases this is leading to neutral conductors carrying more current than the phases, overheating cables and creating real risks if the issue goes unnoticed.

In this episode we discuss:

🟢 Why neutral conductors are overheating in modern installations
🟢 How harmonics from modern electronics are affecting electrical systems
🟢 EV chargers shutting down when voltage reaches 253V
🟢 The growing importance of power quality measurement
🟢 How electricians can protect themselves with data logging and testing
🟢 Where electrification and AI may take the industry next

This is a deep dive into the real technical challenges electricians are starting to face as electrical systems evolve.

If you are an electrician, engineer, or anyone working in the electrical industry, this episode will give you a new perspective on what is happening inside the systems we install and maintain every day.

What does it really take to scale an electrical business?

In this episode of Torque Up, we sit down with Declan from DEC ELEC who built his company from a one man operation to a 22 man team in just six years.

No fluff. No fake hype.

We break down:

• The 16 hour shifts at the start
• When growth nearly broke him
• Hiring his partner to systemise the business
• Why tracking, structure and process are everything
• Winning council and housing association contracts
• The difference between turnover and profit
• Doubling revenue year after year
• Stepping off the tools and becoming a true business owner
• Investing in coaching and personal growth

If you are an electrician thinking about scaling, this episode will change how you see your business.

Sponsored by Chauvin Arnoux UK

In Episode 30 of the Torque Up Podcast, hosts William and Junii are joined by Charles, founder of Trade Cert, for an in depth conversation on Artificial Intelligence in the electrical industry.

AI is everywhere right now, but most conversations stop at fear or hype. This episode goes further.

We break down how AI is already being used in electrical certification, inspection reporting, EICRs, and admin heavy tasks, while addressing the biggest concern electricians have job security.

Charles explains why AI is excellent at repetitive, low skill admin but fundamentally incapable of replacing professional judgement, site based decision making, or responsibility under sign off. We also explore why trades are uniquely protected compared to office based roles, and how electricians can use AI to become more efficient without losing control or credibility.

This is a practical, honest discussion for electricians, contractors, supervisors, and business owners who want to understand AI without being sold fear or fantasy.

• AI in electrical certification and reporting
• Reducing EICR paperwork without risk
• Why AI cannot replace electricians
• The difference between automation and intelligence
• AGI explained in plain English
• Professional responsibility and liability
• Using AI as a second set of eyes
• The future of the trades in an AI world

If you work in the electrical industry and want clarity on AI, this episode is essential listening.

Topics covered in this episode

00:00 Episode introduction
02:10 What Trade Cert is and why it exists
05:45 Rapid growth and market demand
08:30 AI and electrical certification explained
12:40 UX and why usability matters
16:20 Service, trust and human support
19:10 Fear of AI replacing electricians
24:00 Why judgement cannot be automated
28:30 AGI explained simply
33:10 Liability and responsibility
38:20 AI as a second set of eyes
42:30 How electricians should use AI
46:10 Admin reduction without skill loss
49:30 The future of AI in trades
52:00 Final thoughts

🎯 Sponsor Credit

This episode is proudly sponsored by Chauvin Arnoux UK

Professional electrical test and measurement equipment trusted across the industry.
Visit https://cauk.net/

#TorqueUpPodcast
#Electricians
#ElectricalIndustry
#AIInTrades
#TradeTechnology

Welcome to Episode 29 of the Torque Up Podcast, our New Year episode focused on what 2026 really looks like for electricians and trade business owners.

In this episode, Will and Junii are joined by Joe from Jake Electrical for a candid, no nonsense conversation about running an electrical business in the real world.

We talk openly about New Year resolutions that actually matter, the pressure of balancing work, family, admin, and growth, and why so many electricians feel stretched despite being busy.

Joe shares his journey through apprenticeship, going self employed, and the realities of pricing jobs, managing paperwork, using AI tools, and building systems that save time instead of creating more stress.

The conversation also dives into apprenticeships and why the system is broken, the real cost to small electrical businesses, and why good apprentices are becoming harder to find.

We then zoom out to discuss social media, influencer marketing, trade shows, wholesalers, and manufacturers, questioning what genuinely delivers value to installers and what no longer works.

This episode finishes with a future focused discussion on industry consolidation, large energy companies, digital platforms, and how electricians can protect their independence while building sustainable businesses into 2026 and beyond.

If you are an electrician, contractor, apprentice, wholesaler, or manufacturer, this episode will hit home.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Chauvin Arnoux UK, trusted specialists in professional test and measurement equipment for electricians.

00:00 – Welcome back and New Year reflections
Introducing Episode 29 and setting the tone for 2026.

03:30 – New Year resolutions that actually matter
Why mindset, time, and presence matter more than goals on paper.

07:45 – Running a trade business vs being good on the tools
Why admin and systems catch most electricians out.

12:30 – Using AI, software, and tools the right way
How electricians are saving time without losing control.

17:40 – Social media for electricians: what really works
Separating genuine value from paid promotion.

23:10 – Apprenticeships and why the system is failing
The real cost to small businesses and why good apprentices are rare.

30:20 – Work ethic, earning your stripes, and learning on site
Why hands on experience still matters more than shortcuts.

35:45 – Trade shows: worth it or outdated
Installer perspective on value, networking, and returns.

42:30 – Manufacturers, wholesalers, and installer trust
How new products actually reach electricians.

48:10 – The future of the electrical industry
AI, big energy companies, and the risk of consolidation.

54:40 – How electricians protect independence in 2026
Practical advice for future proofing your business.

58:30 – Final thoughts and takeaways
What electricians should really focus on this year.