Something is shifting in who's showing up to job sites. Gen Z is entering the trades faster than anyone expected, and the reasons go deeper than just a labor shortage stat. This episode gets into what's actually pulling younger people away from university and toward skilled trades, whether it's going to last, and what it means for trade business owners hiring right now.
Kosta, Johny, and Charlie also get into the pricing conversation a lot of contractors avoid. With 67% of small business owners raising or planning to raise rates in 2026, the question isn't whether to raise your prices, it's how to do it without losing the clients you've worked to keep. They break down how to communicate a rate increase, how to identify the clients who aren't worth keeping anyway, and why competing on price is usually the wrong game.
If you're running a trades company and you're still charging what you charged two or three years ago, this episode is worth your time. Jobtable helps contractors manage quotes, invoices, scheduling, and client communication in one place, keeping operations tight so you can focus on the work. π Learn more at
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00:00 β Intro & Jobtable shoutout
01:45 β Gen Z entering the trades: real shift or overstated stat?
05:10 β Why money (not just AI fear) is the real driver
09:30 β The stigma around trades is gone
14:00 β Smart people are building trade businesses, not just working in them
18:30 β How to tell clients you're raising rates
25:00 β Comparing apples to apples: why cheap bids cost more in the end
43:00 β Why contractors still get lowballed (and what to do about it)
51:00 β The professionalism gap and defending your price
58:30 β Banner question: No plan B's
What is The Deconstruction Podcast?
Construction isnβt just about buildingβitβs about breaking things down to make them better. The Deconstruction Podcast dives deep into the untold stories, insider insights, and success strategies that shape the construction industry. Hosted by the founders of Jobtable, we tackle topics that matter most to contractors and entrepreneurs, sharing actionable advice and interviewing industry leaders whoβve paved the way to success. Whether youβre looking to grow your business, spark new ideas, or stay ahead in the game, this podcast is your ultimate tool for construction and entrepreneurship.
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