Explore every episode of the podcast Trade Life by Point Load Media

Tonight, Ian runs 135 kilometers through the night up the coast past Quebec City - a projected 30 hours on his feet, with his wife Leanne doing a 50K in the same ultra.

In this episode, Michael gets inside the mind of a former powerlifter who swore he'd never run: the pain, the mud, the feet that fell apart at 100K, and why he keeps coming back. Last year he was pulled from this exact race at 85K. Tonight, it's redemption.

🏃 GOOD LUCK, IAN - we're all cheering you on this weekend. Go get it, brother! 🏃

Catch Ian mid-race on Instagram, and send him a message to wish him luck.

#UltraMarathon #TrailRunning #TradeLife #Powerlifting #EnduranceSports #135K

In this episode of Trade Life Podcast, Mike and Ian get real about men's mental health during Men's Mental Health Awareness Month.

They're not therapists - they're two guys from the trades who've been through it: stillbirth, near-bankruptcy, anxiety, and the slow work of learning to actually feel things.

They share what helped, what didn't, and why talking to another man might be the most underrated thing you can do. If you're carrying something heavy right now, this one's for you.

If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988.

What does it actually take to build a startup from scratch? Mike and Ian are in the middle of it - and they're pulling back the curtain.

In this episode, we get into the real story behind Projekt Network (a LinkedIn alternative built specifically for the skilled trades) and Point Load Media - two ventures born from frustration, late nights, and a whole lot of belief.

We break down:

• Why your idea is the least important part of a startup
• The difference between a startup and a small business (and why it matters)
• How to raise a seed round when you have no profit — just projections
• Why the "side hustle" approach will kill your startup
• The truth about wearing every hat when funds are limited
• Why you should sell your vision, not your product
• How to know if you're actually ready to go all in

Projekt Network is an app with $250K+ invested and a $50 billion market in its sights. Point Load Media is a $150K small business built to fuel content for the brands they're building.

Two very different vehicles. One shared vision.

Whether you're a tradesperson thinking about your next move, an entrepreneur in the early grind, or just someone curious about what building something from nothing really looks like - this one's for you.

We're not here to teach you how to succeed. We're living it in real time. Come along for the ride.

Mike Holmes Jr. and Ian MacFayden aren't verified love experts but this week they get real about one of the most overlooked parts of the trade life: your marriage.

In this episode, they break down what it actually takes to prioritize your relationship when you're grinding long hours, running a business, and raising kids. They know they aren't perfect, but they are trying, just like you.

From knowing your wife's love language, to planning ahead for birthdays (set that two-month reminder!), to why giving her the gift of time beats any physical present, this one's a must-listen for every tradesman who wants to be a better husband.

Subscribe for more Trade Life content every week.

#TradeLife #TradeLifePodcast #MikeHolmesJr #Relationships #MarriageAdvice #Tradesmen

Mike Holmes Jr. and Ian MacFayden hit the floor at Skills Canada 2026 and they've got a lot to say. From jaw-dropping student competitors to the future of the trades, the two sit down to recap everything they saw, felt, and took away from one of Canada's biggest skilled trades events. If you believe in building the next generation of tradespeople, this one's for you.

Mike Holmes Jr. and Ian MacFadyen sit down to go through the photos submitted to the Fence & Deck Competition sponsored by Turkstra Lumbar on Projekt Network, and they don't hold back.

The guys break down what's working, what's not, and what separates a good build from a great one before crowning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. Plus, find out who took home the People's Choice Award as voted by the Projekt Network community.

If you submitted, entered, or just love a solid outdoor build, this one's for you.

If you could start your trade over, what would you pick? Two carpenters debate the trade they'd choose for love vs. the one they'd choose for money - and hand out plenty of grief to electricians, roofers, and painters along the way.

Carpentry wins their hearts, but the cash points somewhere else entirely. No trade is safe.

🎧 New episodes weekly on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Shortage of workers or shortage of skill?

On this episode of Trade Life Podcast, the guys pour a Carlsberg and dig into the skilled trades shortage from every angle: the stigma that's followed contractors for decades, the guidance counselors who steered kids away from the trades, the gap between 100 job applicants and zero qualified hires, and why post-secondary education shouldn't be the automatic next step after high school. Expect honest stories, a few tangents, and a clear message by the end: don't sleep on the trades, or you'll get slept.

In this episode:

• Why "shortage" might be the wrong word
• The stigma problem and where it came from
• Education pathways that fail tradespeople (and everyone else)
• Why trades should be the default - and college the exception
• Empowering the next generation to try a trade

👍 Like, subscribe, and share if this hit home. We're a small show growing fast - every follow helps.

#SkilledTrades #TradeLife #Construction #CareerAdvice #Trades

What’s it really like growing up as the son of a TV icon?

In this deeply personal episode of the Trade Life Podcast, Mike Holmes Jr. opens up about his childhood, family struggles, growing up around construction, and the realities behind the public image people thought they knew.

From bankruptcy and divorce to working construction at 14 and eventually joining his dad on set, Mike shares the experiences that shaped his work ethic, mindset, and approach to fatherhood today.

This isn’t just a story about TV or the trades, it’s about resilience, family, identity, and building a better future from difficult beginnings.

Topics covered:

• Growing up before fame
• Financial struggles and family instability
• Mike Holmes’ rise from contractor to TV personality
• Childhood anxiety and overcoming adversity
• Starting in the trades at 14
• The pressure of proving yourself
• Fatherhood, work ethic, and breaking generational patterns

🎙️ Subscribe for more conversations from the trades, construction, entrepreneurship, and real life behind the scenes.

#TradeLifePodcast #MikeHolmesJr #Construction #Trades #BlueCollar #Podcast #Tradespeople #MikeHolmes #BuildingTheTrades

In this episode, we get real about what it actually takes to build something — from surviving six weeks without a paycheck to nearly going bankrupt with 30 carpenters on staff. We break down the entrepreneurial mindset: personal accountability, pushing through the hard times, knowing when to cut your losses, and why the fear of failure might actually be your biggest driver.

Whether you're running a crew, starting your own business, or just trying to level up — this one's for you.

🔑 Topics covered:

• Why "winning or learning" beats "winning or losing"
• The real reason high achievers do uncomfortable things
• How to know when to push through vs. when to walk away
• Why your habits (fitness, health) predict your success in business
• Choosing your hard now so life gets easier later

What if “work–life balance” isn’t real?
In this raw and reflective episode, Ian and Mike open up about their struggles to juggle entrepreneurship, fatherhood, and fulfillment - and how tragedy, growth, and passion reshaped their mindset.

💬 Topics include:

• The story of the fisherman and the myth of “balance”
• How grief and burnout forced a reset
• Why passion makes you more present with your family
• The trap of guilt and social media expectations
• Finding your personal “sparkle” - the thing that makes you, you

Mike Holmes Jr. and Ian MacFayden sit down with master builder Johnny Hourihan... not in a studio, not on a job site, but inside one of his finished multi-million dollar homes.

What started as a casual walkthrough of Johnny's kitchen turned into a conversation too good to keep off the mic.

No planned questions. No setup. Just three builders standing in a space that took years of skill and obsession to perfect, and a conversation that got real fast.

Johnny opens up about what he'd do differently if he could go back - the hard lessons, the mistakes that cost him, and the standards he refuses to compromise on. They dig into project management, the Projekt Network, what separates contractors who make it from those who don't, and why this trade will eat you alive if you don't have the grit to match your ambition.

This isn't a highlight reel. It's an unplanned, unfiltered conversation between builders who've bled for this industry, and it shows.

Come join us as we sip on some bourbon and discuss why Resumes suck in the trades and the importance of documenting your work.

Also, what's your favourite thing to jam out to on the jobsite? Let us know in the comments!

Takeaways

• Resumes are ineffective for evaluating trade skills
• Project Network addresses the hiring challenges in the trades industry Documenting work through pictures is crucial for showcasing skills and experience
• The importance of showcasing work details and problem-solving abilities through pictures

Chapters

• 00:00 The Ineffectiveness of Resumes
• 24:49 The Power of Documenting Work
• 30:53 Building a Trade Portfolio
• 39:00 The Impact of Music on the Job Site

Ian MacFayden and new co-host Mike Holmes Jr. share the plan for the new format going forward while enjoying a smooth bourbon.

The conversation delves into the challenges of work-life balance, the impact of family on priorities, and the importance of finding time for health and personal passions. It also explores the significance of resistance training and the benefits of taking care of one's physical and mental health. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to fitness, nutrition, and work-life balance. It emphasizes the importance of setting attainable goals, tracking calories, and prioritizing fitness and family time. The hosts share personal experiences and insights on weightlifting, running, yoga, and recovery.

Takeaways

• Work-life balance is a challenge, especially when family becomes a priority.
• Finding time for health and personal passions is essential for overall well-being. Attainable goals are key
• Calorie tracking is eye-opening

Chapters

• 00:00 Work-Life Balance and Family Priorities
• 27:23 Strategies for Fitness and Well-Being
• 38:57 Setting Attainable Goals
• 44:28 Factors Affecting Caloric Expenditure
• 56:49 Incorporating Yoga and Stretching
• 01:03:15 Building Sustainable Fitness Habits

The conversation delves into the challenges of bad hiring experiences and the limitations of resumes and references in the trades industry. It highlights the need for a more effective approach to hiring, such as the use of work portfolios and the Projekt Network platform to showcase skills and experience. The conversation delves into the challenges of hiring the right people for construction projects, highlighting the reputation and cost implications of hiring mistakes. It also explores the criticality of oversight and trust in construction, emphasizing the importance of hiring and the potential consequences of oversight failures. The conversation delves into the critical role of attitude and cultural fit in hiring decisions, career development, and business success. It emphasizes the importance of investing in apprentices and junior staff, showcasing work and attitude, and the impact of attitude on business reputation and efficiency.

Takeaways

• Bad hiring experiences
• Challenges with resumes and references Importance of hiring the right people
• Reputation and cost implications of hiring mistakes Hiring for attitude and cultural fit is crucial
• Investing in apprentices and junior staff can lead to long-term success

Chapters

• 00:00 Technical Difficulties and Introduction
• 09:22 The Mansion Project
• 19:15 The Impact of Attitude on Construction Projects
• 24:28 The Impact of Attitude on Business Hiring and Development

The conversation covers the importance of financial systems and controls within a contracting firm, the need for business skills in addition to trade skills, and the challenges of cash flow management in the construction industry. It also delves into the complexities of accounting, tax management, and growth-oriented financial strategies. The conversation covers essential topics related to cash flow management, invoicing, progress payments, and legal protection for contractors. It also delves into the significance of expense audits and the use of software tools for efficient business management.

Takeaways

• Financial literacy is essential for small business owners, especially in the construction industry.
• The construction industry presents unique challenges for cash flow management and financial planning.
• Understanding the complexities of accounting, tax management, and growth-oriented financial strategies is crucial for business success. Frugality and expense audits are crucial for effective cash flow management.
• Sending invoices promptly and having good terms and conditions can help ensure timely payments.
• Understanding lien rights and legal protection is vital for contractors.

Chapters

• 00:00 Simplifying Business Management for Construction Companies
• 06:01 Challenges of Business Skills in the Construction Industry
• 13:06 Advanced Financial Strategies and Growth Orientation
• 19:00 Financial Literacy and Business Goals
• 25:17 Invoicing and Prompt Payments
• 30:20 Legal Protection and Lien Rights
• 37:20 Introduction to Job Table and Business Management

https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In this episode of the Trade Life podcast, host Ian MaFayden sits down with Michael Holmes Jr. to discuss their shared experiences in the skilled trades, particularly carpentry. They delve into the importance of hands-on experience versus formal education, emphasizing that many young people feel pressured to choose a career path too early. Michael shares his journey from working with his father in construction to becoming a public speaker and television host, highlighting the value of exploring different trades before committing to one. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding trades, the evolving perception of skilled labor, and the opportunities available in the industry today.

The duo discusses the misconceptions about trades being a fallback option for those who aren't academically inclined, arguing instead that skilled trades can offer fulfilling and lucrative careers. They advocate for young people to try various jobs to discover their passions, emphasizing that the trades are not only viable but also essential in today's economy. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of pursuing what you love, regardless of societal expectations, and the potential for success in the trades.

Keywords

skilled trades, carpentry, apprenticeship, trades advocacy, career exploration, Michael Holmes Jr., Trade Life podcast, construction industry, hands-on experience, education

Takeaways

Explore different career paths before committing.

The stigma around trades is changing for the better.

Hands-on experience is invaluable in the trades.

Don't rush into a career decision at a young age.

Pursue what you love, regardless of societal expectations.

Titles

Breaking the Stigma: The Value of Skilled Trades

From Carpentry to Career: Exploring the Trades Journey

Sound bites

"Explore different career paths before committing."

"What's the purpose of anything that I'm doing?"

"Dumb kids do trades, smart kids get a degree."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:36 The Importance of Hands-On Experience

10:00 Changing Perceptions of Skilled Trades

20:00 Finding Your Passion in the Trades

29:52 The Future of Skilled Trades and Opportunities

40:05 The Red Seal and Its Relevance

Keywords

apprentices, tools, battery technology, cordless tools, ergonomics, skilled trades, tool brands, Project Network, construction, tool reviews

Summary

In this episode of the Trade Life podcast, Ian MacFayden and Kiefer Lineback discuss the challenges faced by apprentices in the skilled trades, particularly in relation to technology and tools. They explore how apprentices can navigate the vast array of tool brands, emphasizing the importance of understanding battery technology and ergonomics in tool selection. The conversation also touches on the evolution of cordless tools and the future of tool technology, with a focus on comfort and usability for long-term work. Kiefer shares insights from his extensive experience in the field, providing valuable advice for both new and seasoned tradespeople.

Takeaways

Apprentices in skilled trades face a technology gap.

Choosing the right tool brand depends on your specific trade.

Battery technology is crucial for tool performance.

Cordless tools have evolved significantly in recent years.

Ergonomics and comfort are key in tool selection.

Investing in quality tools can enhance long-term usability.

Understanding battery management systems can prevent premature failures.

The ecosystem of tools matters when selecting a brand.

Comfort details in tools can prevent fatigue during long work hours.

Future discussions will include tool storage and vehicle setups.

Titles

Empowering Apprentices in the Skilled Trades

Navigating the World of Tools for New Apprentices

Sound bites

"Everyone's got a solid battery."

"The ergonomics is a big deal."

"Comfort is everything in tool selection."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

10:51 Navigating Tool Brands for Apprentices

18:06 Understanding Battery Technology in Tools

26:52 The Evolution of Cordless Tools

34:40 Ergonomics and Comfort in Tool Selection

40:43 Future Topics and Conclusion

The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in the skilled trades industry, focusing on the support for continuing education, the impact of reduced exposure to trades, and the challenges faced by post-secondary students. It also addresses the changing perception of trades, the challenges of gaining experience, and strategies for new entrants. Additionally, it discusses the challenges faced by trade schools and the need for industry support.

Takeaways

• Support for continuing education is crucial for the skilled trades industry.
• Reduced exposure to trades creates challenges for post-secondary students.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 06:37 Impact of Reduced Exposure to Trades
• 13:27 Advice for New Entrants
• 23:27 Strategies for New Entrants
• 33:41 Challenges Faced by Trade Schools

On this episode of The Trade Life by Projekt Network host Ian MacFayden sits down with Kyle Kelland to talk about pathways into the trades and tips for apprentices. Listen as Ian and Kyle share stories from their pasts and recent experiences with hiring our new tradespeople.

Continue the conversation on www.projektnetwork.com

or in the app store https://apps.apple.com/ca/app/projekt-network/id6755127571

Also available in the Google Play Store

Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at:

https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Ian MacFayden and Johnny Hurahan explore the challenges and rewards of working in the trades. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the value of skilled labor, and the need for a community that supports and uplifts those in the industry. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology and the future of the trades, emphasizing the need for pride and education in this vital field.

Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at:

https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In this episode of The Trade Life, Ian MacFayden and Aaron Miller share their journey in the trades, discussing the challenges and successes of building Hummingbird Hill Homes and launching Project Network. They emphasize the importance of open conversations in the industry, the value of mentorship, and the need for a supportive community for tradespeople. The episode covers their personal backgrounds, early experiences, and the lessons learned along the way, highlighting the realities of entrepreneurship in the construction sector. In this conversation, Aaron and Ian discuss their journey in the construction industry, focusing on the challenges and lessons learned while building their company. They explore the importance of identifying differential advantages, establishing roles, navigating growth challenges, and the impact of COVID-19 on their business. The conversation also delves into hiring practices, financial management, and the significance of building a strong company culture. They share insights on overcoming legal hurdles and the pitfalls of offsite construction, emphasizing the need for effective contracts and the importance of perseverance during tough times. In this conversation, Aaron and Ian discuss their journey through the challenges of running a construction business, the importance of learning from difficult experiences, and the critical role of standard operating procedures. They emphasize the need for a strong team culture and the integration of technology in project management. The discussion also covers their expansion into the Muskoka region and the launch of Project Network, a platform aimed at connecting skilled tradespeople and fostering community within the industry. They highlight the growing opportunities in the skilled trades and the importance of proactive approaches to business.

Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at:

https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In this conversation, Ian MacFayden and Aaron discuss their journey in building a successful construction company, highlighting the importance of hiring the right talent, letting go of control, and navigating the challenges of growth. They share insights on project management, the impact of COVID-19, the struggles of offsite construction, and the lessons learned from legal disputes and financial hardships. The discussion emphasizes the significance of company culture, the necessity of sacrifice, and the resilience required to overcome adversity in business.

Continue the conversation in the dedicated episode forum on Projekt Network at: https://projektnetwork.com/views/forum

Summary

In the inaugural episode of The Trade Life podcast, Ian MacFayden and Aaron Miller share their journey in the trades, discussing the challenges and realities of starting and running a construction business. They emphasize the importance of open conversations, mentorship, and community within the trades, while also outlining future podcast topics that will delve deeper into various aspects of the industry. In this conversation, Ian MacFayden and Aaron discuss their journey in the construction and renovation industry, starting from their first house flip to building a successful company. They share insights on the challenges they faced, the importance of mentorship, the hustle of balancing work and renovation, and the lessons learned from mistakes. They emphasize the significance of building a strong team, financial management, and differentiating themselves in the market through building science and green practices.